Also referred to as the junction box, circuit panel, or breaker box, the electrical panel connects external wires from the streets to internal wires in your home or business. An effective panel ensures electrical devices in your home receive the right amount of electricity. However, a faulty one can pose risks and damage appliances due to inconsistent power supply. Knowing when to upgrade your panel is essential for a safe and efficient electrical system. Here are six signs you need an electrical panel upgrade.
1. Outdated or Old Electrical Panel
The lifespan of the average electrical panel ranges from 25 to 40 years. If your panel is over 40 years old, you may want to upgrade it. That’s because it may be outdated and, therefore, prone to electrical shock, overheating, and fire. Furthermore, panels over 25 years old may not comply with modern safety standards.
2. Frequent Tripping
When your circuit breakers constantly trip, it may indicate that your home’s electrical panel can no longer effectively handle the power demand. Circuit breakers that constantly trip are likely to wear out faster than anticipated and become ineffective, leaving your home vulnerable to potential electrical fires.
3. Burnt or Melting Wires and Breakers
Wires and breakers burn when there are loose connections or overheating in the electrical panel. When this happens, it may be a sign of a failing system. This could lead to potential fires. Call a professional electrician the moment you smell burning wood or plastic coming from the panel.
4. Power Surges and Voltage Fluctuations
Unexpected power surges and voltage fluctuations occur when an electrical system is overtaxed, leading to an unstable energy distribution. Power surges and voltage fluctuations can make appliances wear out faster than normal, causing premature failure. For this reason, it’s important that you upgrade your electrical panel the moment you notice voltage fluctuations and power surges occurring frequently. Upgrading to an efficient electrical panel helps protect expensive devices by ensuring a consistent supply of energy.
5. Rusted Panel
A panel may corrode due to excessive humidity or water intrusion. Corrosion can severely compromise the integrity of a panel and weaken its metal components. Since a broken or rusted panel increases the risk of accidents and electrical failures, call an electrician as soon as you notice any rust on your panel. Electricians will upgrade the panel and replace compromised parts to ensure reliable and safe distribution of electricity.
6. Unusual Sounds From the Panel
Unusual humming or buzzing noises from your electrical panel may indicate loose connections. Since loose connections pose safety risks, consider contacting an experienced electrician immediately. Electricians will check for loose connections and other significant underlying issues. They can also explore the possibility of upgrading your electrical panel.
Professional Electricians
Being vigilant about the above signs will help keep your home’s electrical system safe and up-to-date. Remember, working on an electrical panel is dangerous and is best left to licensed electricians. Call Paxton Electric today for panel repair and replacement services in Rochester, MN.
