How You Know Your Electrical Panel Needs Replacing
B Town Electric • December 10, 2020
Knowing when it's time to replace your residential electrical panel in your home
Electrical panels are a vital component of a productively functioning household. Without them, you’re virtually void of an Internet connection, cable television, heating solutions, and any home equipment that requires a socket.
While most electrical panels remain dependable for years or even decades, older machines will grow outdated. At some point, your wiring will become problematic and unable to keep up with your household’s overall electrical load. Here are a few reasons you should consider replacing your aging electrical panel.
When Should You Replace Your Electrical Panel?
You'll know your electrical panel may need to be replaced in your home when:
- Your lights begin to flicker or dim
- The panel makes unusual noises
- Your panel gives off a smell
- Your electrical panel is warm to the touch
- There is rust forming on your panel
- Electrical breakers are tripping constantly
- Your panel is over 20-years-old
Other reasons you might want to replace your electrical panel include the following.
- It Increases Your Home Value
Suppose your switchboard or breaker panel is no longer functioning how it used to. In that case, a replacement will not only keep hazards at a minimum—but it’ll also complement your contemporary home aesthetic.
Nobody wants to feast their eyes on a breaker that interrupts your minimalistic home design. When replacing your panel, think about how future buyers will be more willing to shell out on a home that isn’t just functional but easy on the eyes. - It Reduces Fire Hazards
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, over 24,000 electrical fires occur in homes and commercial buildings each year. Of this statistic, 13% of residential fires occur due to faulty equipment, appliances, and electrical malfunctions.
As your household grows, so do its electrical demands. When you equip your home with brand-new refrigerators, television sets, HVAC systems, and more, think about how it could overwhelm your outdated panel. - It Potentially Reduces Homeowners Insurance
Replacing your fuse box and breaker panel increases security in your home. Thus, it also decreases homeowners insurance and can even make you eligible for a discount on your electrical bill. - It Allows You to Install More Appliances
Now and then, you’re going to introduce a new appliance to your existing home. If you’re still running on a fuse box, expect it to blow when it becomes overwhelming.
By enlisting the help of a local electrical contractor to install a breaker panel, you won’t have to worry about overloading your circuit or causing damage to any of your new machinery. - It Gives Your Home a Much-Needed Update and Can Potentially Save You Money
If you’re living in an older home, it will likely come with outdated equipment and wiring. The majority of these aging properties only come with 30 to 100 amps—hardly enough to support your average 200-amp household. In addition, replacing your electrical panel, light bulbs and other electrical services could help your electricity run more efficiently and ultimately save you money.
Should You Upgrade Your Electrical Panel Yourself?
The short answer is no—when it comes to replacing electrical parts, you should always consult with licensed electricians. Every electrical job is potentially dangerous, particularly when you don’t have the knowledge or tools to replace it thoroughly.
Keep in mind that when you shut off a breaker, lugs continue to carry live electricity, resulting in severe injury or even death. Don’t run the risk of increasing the power supply to your home yourself just to cut corners.
When Replacing Your Residential Electrical Panel, Hire a Professional Electrical Contractor
When mitigating a new electrical project, you’ll want to ensure you adhere to local laws and regulations by working with a qualified professional. You want to improve home efficiency—not deplete it.
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electrical maintenance and repair you need with B-Town Electric. Our full-service residential electrical solutions in Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin Counties promise to increase the longevity of your home and protect against everyday hazards.
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