I'm looking to update and consolidate my home's electric service. Are there are any breaker boxes with built- in computer chips and ethernet ports that allow me to monitor power usage on each circuit?
Our Answer
Check out Nexia. They offer plenty of home management technology that adds efficiency and protection to your home, from tracking energy usage to automatically locking your doors.
None built-in that I am aware of but you probably can get an add-on system along the lines that you are looking. The best idea is the heavy-up as it's called and that will set you back about $1,200. plus. It's a good idea and do it to the latest codes with arc-fault and GFCI breakers. Use good gear such as Square D and get a good electrician to do the job.
Jim Rooney
On The Level
Annapolis MD
Home inspector and columnist