Your home’s electrical panel, often known as the breaker or fuse box, is quintessential in keeping your home powered up. It’s the hub where incoming electricity is divided into separate circuits to distribute power throughout your home. But like any component of your house, it can become outdated or insufficient over time. Recognizing when it’s time to upgrade your home’s electrical panel is crucial for safety and efficiency. In this article, we will explore the signs that indicate it’s time for an upgrade and why keeping your electrical panel up-to-date is vital for your home.
We provide comprehensive electrical upgrades for homes of any age, from replacing outdated fuse boxes to installing a new circuit breaker panel. Get in touch with us to see how we can help.
What is an Electrical Panel Upgrade?
An upgrade of your home’s electrical panel may include replacing the panel wiring and breakers. It adds new safety features and allows you to incorporate more power-consuming devices into your home, such as heaters, air conditioners, or large appliances. It also improves the efficiency of your system by reducing the risk of circuit overload.
When Should You Consider an Electrical Panel Upgrade?
New appliances or technology change your home’s electrical needs over time. If your panel is older than 40 years, it may have been designed for fewer amps than what is currently necessary. Fuse boxes, which are usually found in older homes, can also be dangerous and should be replaced as soon as possible with a new circuit breaker panel. Read on to find out why you should upgrade your electrical panel.
You Always Have to Reset Circuit Breakers
If you find yourself regularly resetting circuit breakers, it could be a sign that your panel is outdated or overloaded. You should contact an electrician to inspect the wiring and panel for any potential issues.
You’ve Added New Appliances or Technology
New appliances, entertainment systems, technology, or large items like hot tubs require more electricity than older homes can provide. If you have added new electrical devices, it may be time to upgrade your panel so that it can safely power all of your items.
You Notice Flickering Lights
Another indicator of an inadequate electrical system is flickering lights. This can be caused by circuits being unable to keep up with your home’s usage. A professional electrician can inspect your system and make sure that your electrical panel is providing enough power.
Your Home Was Built Before 1980
If you live in an older home, your electrical panel may not be up to current safety standards. It is recommended that all homes built before 1980 get their panels updated for maximum protection and efficiency. Back then, instead of circuit breakers, fuse boxes used fuses, which can be a fire hazard if fuse sizes are incorrect.
Electrical Shocks
If you’re experiencing electrical shocks from your outlets, it could mean that there is a wiring issue in your home. This can be caused by an outdated panel or faulty wiring. It is important to get this checked out immediately as it could lead to fire hazards or electrocution. You may also look out for plumbing problems around the area, as the presence of moisture can also cause electrical shocks.
Humming Noises From Your Electrical Panel
Humming noises coming from the panel, discoloration or burning smells are all red flags that your home’s electrical panel may be in need of an upgrade. Sometimes you may find signs of electrical fires such as black marks or scorch marks around the panel. If you notice any of these signs, contact a professional to inspect your system immediately and make sure it is safe for you and your family.
You Plan to Sell Your Home
If you are planning to sell your home, most prospective buyers will require that the electrical panel be up to code with current safety standards. Upgrading your home’s panel is a great selling point and could help you get a better price for your property.
If you’re ever concerned about any aspect of your home’s wiring, contact an electrician to inspect it and make sure everything is up to code. Updating your electrical panel can give you peace of mind that your home is running safely and efficiently.
What Are the Benefits of an Electrical Panel Upgrade?
With an upgraded electrical panel, you increase the safety of your home and enjoy the convenience of modern features. You also have more energy efficiency as it reduces the chances of circuit overload. Additionally, you may be able to increase the number of appliances you can run at once. As technology advances, it’s important to ensure your home can keep up. Upgrading your electrical panel is a great way to do that. There are even “Smart” panels now that can measure energy usage on each circuit or allow remote control of your circuits. These are very handy features, especially for second homes or people who travel a lot.
Contact M.R. Electricians for Your Electrical Panel Upgrade
If you’re considering upgrading your electrical panel, contact M.R. Electricians today. Our professional electricians can inspect your system to ensure it is up-to-date and meets all safety standards. We will also provide a detailed report on the condition of your home’s wiring so you can make an informed decision about whether or not to upgrade. Don’t wait until it’s too late: contact M.R. Electricians today at (301) 871-0477 for a safe and efficient electrical panel upgrade.
