Why It May Be Time to Replace Your Electrical Panel

An older couple recently had issues with their microwave, so they decided to replace the appliance with a new model. Shortly after installing their new microwave, however, they began experiencing strange electrical issues.

From different circuits losing power to breakers tripping in the electrical panel, the issues persisted. Following yet another outage in the home, the owner went to check the panel only to find that it was on fire! Fortunately, he had a fire extinguisher nearby and there was minimal damage.

This nonfictional tale had a safe ending, but that is not always the case when it comes to a need for replacing an electrical panel.

The Electrical Panel is the Brains of the Electrical System

As the point of intersection for receiving power from your utility company and distributing electricity throughout your home, the electrical panel—and its condition—are vital to keeping your home safe and all its appliances running properly.

If you are living in a home with any age at all, keeping tabs on the condition of your electrical panel should be a high priority. Many of us have filled our homes with appliances and other devices that were designed well after our home was built.

Just as it makes sense and is necessary to replace our outdated devices, the same holds true for our breaker boxes. A lower amperage electrical panel cannot sustain the loads many of us place on it with our homes today.

This is especially true if the panel in your home still relies on fuses. As opposed to breakers, fuses are more susceptible to failure and can short-circuit when they become overloaded.

Call the Pros to Know if You are Safe

There are several reasons why it may be time to replace your electrical panel. Some more common reasons include:

• You notice arcing in light switches, outlets in the home, or the panel itself
• The breakers are tripping (or fuses are blowing) regularly without an obvious cause
• An outlet or cover appears slightly burnt or scorched near an appliance’s plugs
• Lights flicker or dim when you flip the switch for a garbage disposal, or the HVAC runs

This list is not exhaustive and if you have any concern, it is wise to contact a licensed professional for an immediate inspection. Call Ideal Conditions at 904-379-8762 or schedule service online today!