Tripping breakers and flickering lights. Burning smells and buzzing sounds. Extension cords plugged into other extension cords. If it’s been a long time since you, dear homeowner, have thought about or experienced such unpleasantries, it means that your electrical panel is functioning optimally and supplying your home with all the electrical power it needs on a regular basis. But if any of the above rings a recent bell, you may very well be in need of an electrical panel upgrade. An outdated or faulty electrical panel can compromise the efficiency of your home’s electrical system and the safety of your home. Recognizing the signs that you’re in need of an electrical panel replacement can help prevent serious issues like electrical fires, power outages, or damage to your appliances.
1. Telltale Signs You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade
Frequent Breaker Trips
If you find yourself frequently resetting circuit breakers, it could indicate your electrical panel is struggling to meet demand. This situation may mean your panel is outdated or that it’s simply not capable of handling the current electrical load required by your home.
Flickering/Dimming Lights
Do your lights flicker or dim, particularly when appliances are turned on? This is often a sign of an insufficient power supply, i.e., a failing or outdated panel that can no longer reliably and efficiently distribute the required amount of power throughout your home.
Burning Smells/Scorch Marks
Burning smells or scorch marks around your electrical panel or outlets are serious warning signs of faulty wiring or overheating. This is a potential fire hazard that requires immediate attention. If you notice these signs, please call an electrician without delay.
Buzzing Sounds From the Panel
Buzzing or crackling noises coming from the electrical panel often indicate loose connections or “arcing.” Arcing occurs when electricity jumps between improperly connected wires, which can lead to fires or damage to your electrical system.
A Fuse Box of Any Kind
Many older homes still have fuse boxes instead of circuit breakers. Fuse boxes are simply no longer up to modern building codes and can pose a significant safety risk. If your home still has a fuse box, it’s time to consider an upgrade to a new electrical panel.
Extension Cords Everywhere
If you find yourself using extension cords in almost every room of your home or for most of your appliances, it’s a clear sign that your home’s electrical system is not meeting your family’s needs. This is typically caused by a lack of outlets or overloaded circuits.
Panel Feels Hot to the Touch
Your electrical panel should never feel warm or hot to the touch. If you notice it’s unusually warm, this may indicate an overheating system, which could eventually lead to a fire. It’s a serious warning sign that your electrical system needs immediate attention.
2. Risks of Ignoring the Warning Signs
- Increased Fire Hazard
Faulty wiring, outdated wiring, or an overloaded electrical system is a leading cause of house fires. - Risk of Damaging Appliances
A faulty or inefficient panel can deliver inconsistent or too much power, potentially damaging sensitive electronics and appliances. - Higher Energy Bills
An inefficient electrical system can lead to wasted energy, increasing your electricity costs over time.
3. The Clear Benefits of an Electrical Panel Upgrade
- Improved Home Safety
Replacing your old electrical panel with a new electrical panel reduces the risk of electrical fires, shocks, and similar hazards. - Increased Property Value
Homes with updated electrical systems are more attractive to buyers, potentially increasing the value of your property. - Capacity for Modern Appliances/Smart Home Devices
As your home almost inevitably fills with new appliances and new tech, a new electrical panel ensures your system can handle the higher power demands.
4. When to Call a Professional
Performing an electrical panel upgrade is a complex task that requires professional expertise. An electrician can properly inspect your system and competently perform any upgrades—ensuring your new panel is installed safely and in accordance with code.
Nerve Center of the Modern Home
Getting a new electrical panel is never going to be as viscerally exciting as getting a new Viking refrigerator or LG big-screen television. But if you want your new appliance or home entertainment tech to work as advertised, a properly functioning electrical panel is key. So if you notice any of the above-listed warning signs of a failing electrical system—particularly the ones pointing in the direction of danger—it’s time to call in an expert to assess the situation and recommend action. At Holtzople, we’ve been helping homeowners stay properly powered up for years, and are ready to help you do the same.