Over time, electrical components like wires, outlets and fixtures will start to wear out, resulting in diminished performance. As a result, some properties need an upgrade to the service panel. This is important, because overworked and outdated panels can present serious safety hazards to your property and its inhabitants.
The main electrical panel is the distribution point for the entire electric system on your home or business. It houses the meter, all of the cables that lead into and out of it, as well as the circuit breakers.
Modern homes and businesses use a lot of high-powered equipment, from refrigerators to hot tubs. This equipment can overwork your service panel, causing a variety of problems including tripped breakers, flickering lights and even fire. Upgrading to a modern 200-amp-rated electrical panel will ensure you have enough capacity for all of your appliances and equipment.
If your breaker box still uses fuses instead of circuit breakers, it is a clear indication that an upgrade is long overdue. Modern circuit breakers are safer and more convenient than fuses. In addition, they don’t need replacement as frequently and are less likely to cause fire hazards.
One of the most common signs that your home’s electrical panel needs an upgrade is frequent breaker trips. While it is normal for a breaker to trip every once in a while, it happens more often than should be and indicates that the system is overworked. Upgrading to a higher-capacity electrical panel will reduce the number of breaker trips and improve the overall power efficiency of your home.
Another sign that your electrical panel is overworked is if the lights on your appliances or lights around your property flicker. Flickering lights indicate that your electrical panel is not able to meet the demands of the equipment you are running at the same time. This can be dangerous for your family and employees, as the inconsistent power can cause equipment to overheat or even cause a fire.
If you are planning on doing any major renovations, expanding your living space or introducing new electrical products into your home, it is essential to have the right power capacity to accommodate these changes. A new kitchen, bedroom or bathroom will require more electricity than your old panel can handle, and an upgrade is a cost-effective way to ensure that you have the necessary capacity for all of your home’s electrical requirements. An upgrade can also help you save on the costs of a separate electrician to install additional outlets or wiring as part of your project. Electrical Panel Upgrade