Signs Your Electrical Panel Needs to Be Upgraded

Your home is one of your biggest investments, so it's important to keep up with necessary maintenance and repairs. One area that is often overlooked is the electrical panel. 

Every house has an electrical panel, typically located in the basement or garage. This panel is responsible for distributing electricity throughout the home, and it plays an essential role in keeping your family safe. The panel itself is made up of a series of circuit breakers, each of which controls the flow of electricity to a specific area of the house.

Many homeowners don't think about their electrical panels until something goes wrong. However, proactive maintenance is key to avoid a costly repair down the line. In this blog post, we will share five signs that your home's electrical panel is in need of an upgrade!

Your Home Is Older

If your home was built more than 40 years ago, there's a good chance that its electrical system is outdated. Over time, panels can become worn down and no longer function as efficiently as they once did. The average lifespan of an electrical panel is around 40-60 years, so if your home is on the older end of the spectrum, it's definitely time to start thinking about an upgrade. 

Your Circuit Breakers Keep Tripping

One of the main functions of an electrical panel is to protect your home from power surges. If your circuit breakers are constantly tripping, it means that they are being overloaded with too much electricity. This is a surefire sign that you need a new panel.

Your Breakers Don't Reset

If you've ever tried to reset a breaker only to find that it won't stay in the "on" position, it's another sign that your electrical panel needs to be replaced. This common sign indicates that the breaker itself is faulty, or there could be an issue with the wiring in your panel. Either way, it's best to get it checked out by a professional as soon as possible. 

Your Lights Dim or Flicker When You Turn on Other Appliances

Do your lights dim or flicker whenever you turn on another appliance? If so, this indicates that there is not enough power flowing to all of the devices in your home. When this happens, it puts stress on your system and also puts your family at risk of electrical fires. This can often be fixed by upgrading to a higher-amp electrical panel to ensure that your system can handle the demands placed on it without any problems.

You Often Rely on Power Strips and Extension Cords

Power strips and extension cords are meant to be used occasionally, not as a permanent solution. If you're constantly relying on them, it means that your electrical system isn't adequate for your needs. A good rule of thumb is to use one plug per outlet and if you're going over that, it's probably time for an upgrade! 

Call The Experts

If any of these signs sound familiar, it might be time for an electrical panel upgrade. Don't wait until it's too late—upgrading your electrical panel will ensure that your home is safe and up to code. 

This may seem like a daunting task, but our team of certified electricians are here to help! We have the knowledge and experience to install and wire an electrical panel, ensuring that it will be installed correctly and safely. Our team will also walk you through the process and cost so there are no surprises along the way. 

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Pro-Tec Electrical Services LTD today by filling out our online form.