7 Signs You Need An Electrical Panel Upgrade

For most homeowners, the electrical panel is often an element they overlook unless they need to flip a circuit breaker. However, the electrical panel plays a crucial role in your home, and it’s essential to keep an eye on your panel to ensure its functioning optimally.

The electrical panel houses the circuits that distribute electricity to the lights, outlets, and appliances throughout your home. Generally, the size and number of circuits determine the overall electrical capacity of your property. If you’re considering replacing your electrical panel soon, checking out reliable professionals who can carry out efficient electrical panel upgrade in Sacramento would be a good starting point.

If you want to know the signs when it’s time to replace or upgrade the electrical panel in your home, here are some of the signs that it’s time for an electrical panel upgrade.

1, Repeated Tripping Of The Breakers

There are various reasons the breakers can trip, such as a poor breaker, faulty wiring, or an issue with the electrical panel.

The circuit breakers typically trip and turn the electricity flow off to protect against circuits drawing too much power. The design is responsible for protecting your home from too much power moving through the electrical system. Still, it can also be an indication that your electrical panel requires an upgrade.

Even after performing all simple measures yet issues occur, or if you notice rust or burn marks on the breaker, it’s a clear sign to replace the electrical panel. It’d be best to check out Electricians with the skills and experience in electrical panel upgrade Sacramento.

2, Unusual Sounds From The Breaker Box

It’s normal to hear a light buzz-like sound originating from the breaker box. However, once there’s a popping or crackling sound, it’s an issue for concern. Remember that these sounds might indicate arcing within the breaker and would require an inspection by a professional electrician right away.

3, Burning Smell

Once there’s a burning smell originating from the electrical panel, it’s an issue of concern. If the circuit breaker panel starts to malfunction, it can result in a house fire that can severely damage your property.

Often, the burning smell can either be plastic or wood, as the plastic jacket of the electrical wire starts to melt or the wood and insulation in the walls get scorched. If you notice even a slight burning odor, replacing the electrical panel with a new one is crucial.

4, Living In An Old House

On average, an electrical panel can last for 25-40 years. The wide range can be due to various factors such as wear and tear, power surges, and defects. Regardless of the reason, having an electrical panel over 25 years old can be risky.

Consider hiring a professional to thoroughly inspect the electrical panel to ensure it’s in good working order, or if you want to stay safe, get a Sacramento electrical panel upgrade.

5, Fuses In The Electrical Panel

An electrical panel that utilizes fuses is generally safe as having circuit breakers to interrupt the electricity flow. However, when you have a fuse-based electrical panel, it’s likely to end up overworked since once a fuse blows, you need to replace the fuse rather than flipping a switch if you have a circuit breaker.

Some homeowners often use oversized fuses, but it can be an issue of concern since it allows a large amount of energy to flow through the connected circuit, putting their property at risk for electrical fires.

Although there’s nothing wrong with having a fuse-based electrical panel, it’s best to replace it soon with an electrical panel with circuit breakers.

6, Lack The Necessary Outlets

A similar issue with an electrical panel that allows a minimal flow of electricity is if you lack enough outlets in your home. Although it seems an issue you can remedy using a power strip, it’s not advisable to overburden any outlet. Consider hiring a professional to add more dedicated circuits if there’s room in your electrical panel to install new additional outlets around your home.

Sadly, if your current electrical panel could no longer accommodate new circuits, consider getting an upgrade.

7, The Electrical Panel Is Warm To The Touch

An electrical panel is responsible for regulating the warmth of the electrical system in your home. When overheating occurs, it triggers a circuit breaker to trip and protect your home from a possible electrical fire.

Nevertheless, if you notice the electrical panel is warm or hot once you touch it, consider it as a sign of a serious problem that would require a timely replacement.

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering that it’s time to upgrade the electrical panel in your home, it’s best to call a professional electrician to conduct a thorough inspection of the electrical system. Generally, it’s crucial to think about the electrical load and allow room to grow, especially if you’re planning to add new appliances soon. By knowing about the potential signs when it’s time for an electrical panel upgrade, you can make the right actions to prevent possible damage to your home while ensuring your electrical system stays in good working order.