If your home is more than 20 years old, there’s a good chance you’re due for an electrical panel upgrade. 

While your electrical panel may have been adequate when your home was first built, the increasing demands of modern life can put a strain on an outdated system. Here are some signs that it might be time to upgrade your electrical panel:

It's Original to Your Home

If your electrical panel is the same one that was installed when your home was built, it's probably time for an upgrade. Electrical technology has come a long way in the last few decades, and your electrical panel may not be able to keep up with the demands of modern life.

Your Lights are Flickering

If your lights are flickering or dimming, it could be a sign that your electrical panel is overworked. An electrical panel that is overloaded can cause your lights to flicker or dim.

You Have Outlets or Appliances That Trip the Breaker

If you have a number of appliances or electronics plugged into your outlets and they frequently trip the breaker, it's a sign that your electrical panel is overloaded. Upgrading to a panel with a higher amperage will solve this problem.

Your Home Is in an Area with High Electricity Usage

If you live in an area with a high concentration of homes or businesses, your electrical panel may struggle to keep up with the demand. Upgrading to a panel with a higher capacity can help ensure that your home has enough power to meet your needs.

Your Panels Don't Use Breakers

If your electrical panel uses fuses instead of breakers, upgrading to a breaker panel is a good idea. Breaker panels are safer than fuse panels and will give your home more reliable power.

You Don't Have Enough Outlets

If you have fewer outlets than you need, you may want to consider upgrading to an outlet strip. This type of outlet provides extra outlets near where you need them most, saving you time and hassle.

Your Wiring is Outdated

If your home is over 40 years old, your electrical wiring may be outdated. Outdated wiring can be dangerous and can lead to power outages. If your home is older, upgrading your electrical panel and wiring is a good idea.

If There's a Burning Smell

If you smell burning plastic, there's a good chance your wiring has a problem. This smell is often a sign that the insulation on your wiring is melting. If you smell burning plastic, unplug everything in your home and call a professional electrician.

Your Electrical Panels are Warm or Hot

If your electrical panels are warm or hot to the touch, there's a good chance there's a problem with your wiring. This could be a sign that there's a short circuit or that your wiring is overloaded. If your electrical panels are warm or hot, unplug everything in your home and call a professional electrician.

To Sum Up

In conclusion, If you're experiencing any of the signs mentioned in the article, it's likely that you're due for an electrical panel upgrade. Not only will this keep your home safe and functioning properly, but it can also help you save money on your energy bills in the long run. So if you're unsure whether or not you need an upgrade, be sure to consult with a professional to get a better idea of what's best for your home.

Need to update your electrical panels? B Town Electric is a reputable electrician serving Western MA. Whether you need an electrician in Westfield, MA, Northampton, Hadley or surrounding areas, we can help. We specialize in residential, commercial, and industrial electrical. Get in touch with us today!