It’s easy to forget your electrical panel, usually hiding in the basement or garage. But the reality is, that this panel is probably the most important part of your electrical system. While these devices don’t need the same amount of maintenance as other electrical components, they still need proper care and attention. You may even need to upgrade your electrical panel altogether!
In today’s blog the team at 4-Star Electric goes over everything you need to know about your electrical panel and when it needs some TLC, or even an upgrade.
The Heart Of The System
The electrical panel is the beating heart of your home’s entire electrical system.
It’s the central point where all of the wires from outside your home meet the ones inside. It’s also the connection point where your electric service provider brings electricity into your home.
The critical role of this device makes it very important to ensure that the electrical panel you have can handle the electricity that you produce.
Panel Maintenance For Longevity
We’ve seen it all when it comes to residential electrical repair. Here are the most common maintenance tasks we recommend to extend your unit’s lifespan between services.
Schedule Regular Inspections
Have one of our experienced residential electricians come out once a year to check your panel, connections and wiring to ensure optimal performance and safety. These inspections are great for catching potential issues before they become bigger problems.
Keep The Area Clean & Dry
Ensure the area around your electrical panel is clean and free of dust, dirt and moisture. Also, avoid storing items around your panel to maintain clear and easy access, and prevent accidental damage.
Also monitor your home’s humidity levels, as excess moisture can lead to rust and corrosion significantly reducing the efficiency of your electrical system.
Monitor For Warning Signs
Be vigilant and don’t ignore anything that seems out of place such as weird noises and odours coming from the panel, or signs of scorching on your wires. And call our team right away if you notice any of these warning signs!
Are You Due For An Upgrade?
There are a few tell-tale signs that your electrical panel needs a complete overhaul, including:
Your Home Features an Old Fuse Box
As briefly discussed above, traditional fuse boxes are not only outdated but are also susceptible to frequent burnouts. Such burnouts can cause significant inconvenience and often result in costly replacements. To avoid these issues, consider upgrading to a modern circuit breaker system, which is more reliable and requires less maintenance.
Your Home Is Over Two Decades Old
Homes built more than 20 years ago were typically designed to support electrical systems that handle between 60 to 100 amps. However, the requirements of contemporary homes have drastically increased, with modern homes can be equipped with 200 amp panels. To accommodate today’s higher electrical demands and to ensure safety and efficiency, it’s crucial to have an electrical panel that can adequately support your needs.
Your Electrical Panel Emits Warmth
It’s normal for electrical devices to generate some heat, but a consistently warm or hot electrical panel is a red flag. This warmth could indicate that your panel is overloaded, improperly installed, or potentially faulty. Any of these issues could compromise the safety of your home’s electrical system.
Odour from Your Electrical Panel
If you detect a burning smell emanating from your electrical panel, it’s imperative to contact a licensed electrician immediately. This odor can be a precursor to an electrical fire, signaling that immediate professional attention is required to address potentially dangerous electrical faults.
Frequent Tripping of Your Electrical Panel
If your electrical panel trips frequently or you hear a distinct crackling sound, this may indicate that too many appliances are connected to a single circuit. While sometimes the solution might be as simple as replacing a circuit breaker, it often suggests that your panel may not be adequately equipped to handle your current electrical load.
You Are Upgrading Your Appliances
When upgrading your home appliances, it’s essential to consider whether your current electrical panel is capable of supporting the new, potentially more power-intensive equipment. Before proceeding with any major appliance upgrades, consulting with an electrical expert can ensure that your electrical system is up to the task, preventing overload and maintaining system integrity.
It’s important to make sure your electrical panel is operating to the best of its ability. If you think that you might need an electrical panel upgrade, call the friendly and experienced electricians at 4-Star Electric.
When you have an electrical issue, you should never have to wait for solutions. That’s why we’re dedicated to ensuring every customer finds trustworthy, timely and reliable service. Call us today, when you choose us, you’re treated like family!
Frequently Asked Questions About Electrical Panels
How Often Should I Have My Electrical Panel Inspected?
We recommend having your electrical panel inspected annually to ensure everything is operating as it should, and as safely as possible.
Can I Upgrade My Panel Myself?
Upgrading your electrical panel is complex, dangerous and best left to the professionals. We have the experience and equipment necessary to quickly and safely complete any upgrades or repairs, restoring or improving your service faster than you thought possible.
How Much Does It Cost To Upgrade My Electrical Panel?
The price to upgrade your home’s electrical panel greatly depends on the complexity of installation and the condition of your electrical system. Call our team today for your free, no-obligation quote!