If you’re a homeowner in North Idaho, 2026 is shaping up to be a big year for smart, safe, and energy-efficient electrical improvements. Whether you live in Sandpoint, Ponderay, Sagle, Priest River, or anywhere across Bonner County, the right electrical upgrades can increase your home’s value, improve safety, reduce energy costs, and make everyday living more convenient.

At Panhandle Electric, we help homeowners navigate which upgrades make the biggest impact. Below are the top electrical upgrades we recommend for 2026, based on local trends, new technology, and the unique needs of homes in our North Idaho climate.

1. LED Lighting Upgrades and Under-Cabinet Lighting

Modern LED lighting is one of the most cost-effective upgrades for improving the comfort and efficiency of your home. Replacing old lighting with high-efficiency LED fixtures can:

  • Reduce energy use
  • Improve brightness and color quality
  • Add warmth and character to kitchens, living rooms, and exterior spaces
  • Lower long-term maintenance costs

Under-cabinet lighting, in particular, continues to be a Top 3 requested upgrade in Sandpoint-area homes—and it dramatically improves the functionality and look of your kitchen.

2. Electrical Panel Upgrades and Service Upgrades

Many homes in North Idaho—especially homes built 20+ years ago—are due for electrical panel improvements. With more homeowners adding hot tubs, shop equipment, EV chargers, and new appliances, panel capacity becomes critical.

A panel upgrade or service upgrade can help:

  • Improve safety and reduce overload risk
  • Support new high-demand electrical devices
  • Bring your home up to modern electrical standards
  • Increase resale value

If your lights flicker, breakers trip regularly, or your panel is maxed out, 2026 is an excellent year to upgrade.

3. Hot Tub Hook-Ups and Outdoor Entertainment Power

Hot tubs continue to be extremely popular in the Sandpoint and greater Bonner County area. A proper 230V / 50A hot tub hook-up ensures your spa runs safely, efficiently, and up to code.

Homeowners are also adding:

  • Outdoor kitchen circuits
  • Deck and patio lighting
  • Dedicated outlets for smokers and pellet grills
  • Backyard entertainment system wiring

These improvements add year-round enjoyment—especially during long North Idaho winters.

4. Home Backup Generators and Transfer Switch Installations

With our seasonal storms, fallen trees, and rural power outages, more North Idaho homeowners than ever are investing in backup power.

A professionally installed generator or transfer switch gives you:

  • A safe way to power essentials during outages
  • Protection for sensitive equipment
  • Peace of mind during winter storms

This upgrade is one of the most practical and valuable improvements for homes in the Idaho Panhandle.

5. Shop, Garage, and Outbuilding Wiring

North Idaho homeowners love their shops, and 2026 is expected to bring another surge in shop and outbuilding projects. Whether you’re building a workspace, storage building, or hobby shop, proper wiring makes all the difference.

Common shop upgrades include:

  • 240V circuits for welders, compressors, or heaters
  • Dedicated lighting circuits
  • Subpanel installations
  • Exterior lighting for driveways and parking areas
  • RV and trailer hookups

A safely wired shop not only improves functionality but also protects your property investment.

6. Smart Home Electrical Upgrades

Smart home integrations are becoming more affordable and more reliable. Popular upgrades for 2026 include:

  • Smart switches and dimmers
  • Smart exterior lighting
  • Smart thermostats
  • Wi-Fi enabled outlets
  • Smart whole-home surge protection

These upgrades increase convenience, energy efficiency, and home security while adding modern appeal.

7. Whole-Home Surge Protection

With more sensitive electronics in our homes than ever—computers, TVs, appliances, EV chargers, and smart devices—whole-home surge protection is quickly becoming a must-have.

Benefits include:

  • Protection against lightning strikes and utility surges
  • Extending the life of appliances
  • Increased safety for your home
  • Major cost savings compared to replacing fried electronics

This is one of the highest-value upgrades for North Idaho homeowners in 2026.

Why Electrical Upgrades Matter for North Idaho Homes

Our region’s climate, rural distribution, and increasing reliance on modern electrical devices make these upgrades more important than ever. Upgrading your home’s electrical system can:

  • Improve safety and reliability
  • Reduce energy bills
  • Increase the value of your home
  • Support new technology and appliances
  • Make everyday life more comfortable

At Panhandle Electric, we help homeowners determine which upgrades offer the most benefit based on their home, goals, and budget.

Ready to Upgrade Your Home’s Electrical System?

As the Best Electrician of Bonner County, we’re here to help with all your electrical upgrades in 2026. Whether you’re planning a remodel, adding a hot tub, building a shop, or simply improving your home’s safety, our team provides professional, reliable, code-compliant service you can trust.

📞 Call us today for a free estimate: 208-627-6639

💡 Local, licensed, and proud to serve the Sandpoint and Bonner County community.