When and Why You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade
Homeowners may find it necessary to upgrade their electrical panels to meet current building codes, which prioritize safety and quality standards.
Although many homeowners don't pay attention to electric panels, they are at the center of every home's electrical system. They distribute power from the outside grid to the outlets and appliances inside a home.
Please keep reading to learn when and why an electric panel needs to be upgraded.
Old house
If a house is over 30 years old, it will probably have an old electrical system. One reason to upgrade such outdated panels is that they may fail to handle the power requirements of modern appliances and devices.
Additionally, old panels with loose or corroded connections may pose safety concerns, including overheating and short circuits, which can cause fires.
Frequently tripping breakers
Circuit breakers help prevent the electrical system from overloading. Whenever they sense too much current in the system, they trip and cut off the power.
When homeowners notice their circuit breakers tripping often, this may be a sign that their electrical panels cannot handle the home's power needs.
Constant power surges
Power surges occur due to uneven power distribution in the circuit. Most homeowners have power strips that protect appliances from electrical surges, but this is a temporary solution.
If a house keeps experiencing power surges, upgrading to a new panel is the best solution. This enables a constant flow of electricity and eliminates voltage fluctuations that can damage appliances.
Electric panel has fuses
Most homes built before the 1960s have fuses on the electric panels instead of circuit breakers. However, fuses are prone to melting and blowing up due to voltage changes and may cause fires or damage to wiring and appliances.
Electric panels require new circuit breakers since they are more stable and have advanced safety measures.
Dimming or flickering lights
Dimming or flickering lights normally indicate an overloaded electric panel. If homeowners plugin high-capacity appliances, they place a large power demand on the circuit. The panel delivers such a high level of power that it leaves little or none to service the lights.
Homeowners should take this as a sign to have their electric panels replaced with more capable ones.
Renovation plans
Home remodeling usually involves getting modern appliances and installations such as heated bathtubs, air conditioning units, and electric car chargers. Naturally, homeowners will need to upgrade their electrical panels to match the requirements of these new appliances.
Compliance requirements
Current building codes prioritize safety and quality. Therefore, homeowners may need to upgrade their electrical panels to comply with the set standards and safety regulations.
Upgrade now, save tomorrow
Homeowners need to know why and when their panels need to be upgraded. Replacing them prevents appliance damage and ensures the home's safety from fires. Nonetheless, owners should seek guidance from electricians on whether the panels suit their homes' sizes, power needs, and budgets.
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!
