An electrical panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system. As electricity is distributed around the home in the electrical system, it is dispersed by the electrical components. After some time, it may require a replacement. Learning to identify when the electric panel needs replacement could help you prevent fatal injury, expensive repairs, or energy loss. Here’s how to recognize the signs that indicate your electrical panel may need replacement.
1. Frequent Circuit Breaker Tripping
One of the most common indications that your electrical board needs to be replaced is when circuit breakers pop out continuously. If you notice that the breakers are tripping every time you turn on a high-power appliance or use quite a few devices concurrently, that could be an indicator of an outdated or overworked electrical panel. Installing a new electrical panel will help handle these loads and reduce problems, protecting your home from surge power in the meantime.
2. Aging Electrical Panel
Electrical panels have a lifespan of about 20-30 years. If your panel is old and outdated, it might have trouble keeping up with the power needs of your house. Over time, older panels, especially ones put in during the 1960s or earlier, can begin to pose problems due to rust, corrosion, or other electrical failures.
If your electrical panel is nearing or has surpassed this age, it’s essential to consider a replacement before the issues worsen. Investing in a modern, upgraded panel will ensure your home stays up to code and can handle the electrical demands of today’s appliances and devices.
3. Flickering Lights and Power Surges
An electrical panel upgrade may be necessary to ensure a steady and reliable power supply. Flickering lights or power surges are no more than a hindrance but certainly result in damage to our electronics and appliances. Replacing or upgrading your panel will help alleviate these and will provide you with a much more reliable electrical system.
4. Overloaded Electrical Panel
If you’ve been adding appliances or electrical devices over time, your old panel might not be able to handle more load. An overloaded panel will fight heat and raise fire hazard risk and inefficiency. If you notice any sign of overheating, such as scorch marks around the edges of the panel, it is definitely an indication for you to consider replacing the panel. A new panel will then be able to provide the much-needed capacity to take the additional load.
5. Outdated or Unsafe Panel Brands
Older panel brands were known to be unsafe or unreliable. If your electrical panel is from one of these manufacturers, it is very important that you make arrangements for it to be replaced as soon as possible. These panels are admitted to have defects with the potential to cause electrolysis and fire. Older panel models require an immediate replacement by a qualified electrician in order to ensure the safety of your home.
Upgrade Your Panel with Tintowire Electric
Knowing when it’s time for an electrical panel replacement to save your home from any electric hazard and keep the smooth operations of your electrical system. If your panel is quite old, frequently trips its breakers, or shows signs of overloading, it’s an indication that you should probably upgrade it. Tintowire Electric has experts who bring your home’s electrical system up-to-date and make sure it is functioning well. Don’t wait till things go wrong; contact us for an inspection and professional electrical assistance today.
