Reasons to Upgrade an Electrical Panel
An electrical panel or the circuit breaker panel is an essential component of every home's electrical wiring system.
An electrical panel or the circuit breaker panel is an essential component of every home's electrical wiring system. It is a large metal box that houses all the circuit breakers protecting the respective circuits from overloading. An electrical panel is the load control center that regulates the electric supply throughout the house. When a fault occurs, it shuts down the electrical flow to ensure the safety of the home and the residents.
However, electrical panels do not last forever. Therefore, let's discuss a few reasons to consider an electrical panel upgrade:
Outdated system
The primary reason to upgrade the electrical panel is to avoid the hazards associated with an outdated panel. The electrical panel can last 25 to 40 years, but humidity, water infiltration, pests, corrosion, dust and debris, and excessive demand can shorten its service life. Therefore, it is best to upgrade the electrical panel in old homes with their original systems.
Faulty wiring
Outdated systems with old wiring can cause several issues such as:
Flickering lights
Strange hissing noises from the breaker box
An unusual burning smell
Appliances failing to run at full power
Frequently tripping circuit breakers
A reliance on extension cords in the home
Frequent outages
Shocks
Sparks
Scorch marks on the outlets
Fire
These indicators show that the panel cannot safely handle the electrical load.
Increased electrical demands
An electrical panel upgrade is crucial to meet the power needs of modern households. Unfortunately, the panels in older homes are unlikely to handle the rising electrical demands. If a homeowner is contemplating a home addition, remodel, or purchasing major electrical appliances that will consume a lot of energy, upgrading the old 100-amp system to a 200-amp system is essential. It will avoid overloading the electrical system, eliminate power surges, and ensure the panel can safely handle the rise in the power needs.
The panel uses fuses
Upgrade the electrical panel if it uses fuse boxes for protection from overloads. Fuses require replacement every time the system trips, which is inconvenient and a waste of time and money. Modern electrical panels have breakers that only need flipping a switch and are easy to repair. Also, GFCI outlets, a requirement in modern homes' kitchens and bathrooms, are incompatible with fuses. Always upgrade the panel to install GFCI outlets in high-humidity areas.
Implement the latest safety features
Modern electrical panels come equipped with safety features absent in the older panels. As a result, homes with old and faulty wiring are at an increased risk of electrical fire and other hazards. Upgrading the electrical panel and adding new circuits will safeguard the property against potential dangers and make the homeowner eligible for discounts on the insurance policy. In addition, an electrical panel upgrade can increase the home value and work as a good selling point to attract potential buyers.
Safeguard the home's electrical system
Regular electrical panel maintenance and inspection by a qualified electrician are essential to determine the right time to upgrade it. Upgrading an electrical panel ensures adequate electric supply, protects equipment and devices from damage and eliminates potential fire hazards. Hire a local licensed electrician to upgrade the electrical panel and maximize home safety.
ACT Electric is a full-service residential and commercial electrical contractor company specializing in electrical installation, repairs, and upgrades, electrical troubleshooting, electrical remodeling, electrical home inspection, and electrical retrofitting. We always prioritize customer comfort and safety. Give us a call at (480) 986-1722 today!
