Having an outdated or faulty breaker panel can be dangerous for your home and your family’s safety. A functioning breaker panel protects your electrical system from overload, short circuits, and fire hazards. However, like any other electrical component, it has a limited lifespan.
As a homeowner, it’s essential to know when you need a breaker panel replacement. Ignoring the signs can put your home at risk and lead to costly repairs or electrical accidents. Here are the top five signs that indicate you need a new breaker panel:
Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips
Circuit breakers are designed to trip and shut off the power during an overload or short circuit. It’s a safety feature that prevents electrical fires and appliance damage. However, if you find yourself frequently resetting tripped breakers. It could be a sign that your breaker panel is outdated and can no longer handle your home’s electrical demand.
If you notice this happening more often than usual, it’s time to consider a breaker panels replacement. A new panel with higher amperage and updated safety features can provide better protection for your home and reduce the need for frequent resets.
Flickering or Dimming Lights
Do you notice your lights flickering or dimming when using certain appliances or turning on multiple lights at the same time? This could indicate an overloaded circuit, which means your breaker panels struggle to distribute power evenly throughout your home.
An outdated, overworked breaker panel can also cause voltage fluctuations that damage sensitive electronics and appliances. If you experience these issues, it’s best to have a professional electrician check your breaker panels and determine if a replacement is necessary.
Burning Smell or Scorch Marks
If you smell something burning or see scorch marks around your breaker panel, it clearly indicates an issue. It could mean an electrical overload or faulty wiring within the panel. These signs should never be ignored as they can lead to serious fire hazards.
In this case, immediately turn off the main power supply and contact a licensed electrician to inspect and replace your breaker panels. It’s better to be safe than sorry about potential fire hazards in your home.
Outdated Panel and Wiring
If your home is over 20 years old, you may have an outdated electrical panel that may no longer meet today’s safety standards. Older breaker panels were not designed to handle the increasing electrical demands of modern homes. Which can put your home at risk for electrical fires.
Additionally, if you have knob and tube wiring or aluminum wiring in your home, it’s a good idea to replace your breaker panel. These types of wiring are considered outdated and pose significant safety hazards, especially when paired with an old breaker panel.
Home Renovations or Upgrades
If you’re planning on adding new appliances, upgrading your HVAC system, or undergoing a major home renovation, it’s essential to have your breaker panel checked. These changes can strain an already outdated panel and may require more power than your current panel can handle.
A professional electrician can assess the electrical demands of your home and recommend a newer, more efficient breaker panels to support your upgrades and renovations.
Consider a breaker panel replacement before a major electrical issue or safety hazard. You can keep your home and family safe from potential hazards by staying aware of the signs and regularly maintaining your electrical system. Contact a licensed electrician for an inspection if you notice any of these signs, and consider replacing your breaker panel if necessary.