Signs to Consider an Electrical Panel Upgrade
The electrical panel divides the incoming power into smaller, more manageable circuits and distributes it around the home. One of the things that often gets overlooked when it comes to renovations around the home is the electrical panel. After years of service or wear and tear, the electrical panel can fail to provide a home with reliable and safe power and need replacing.
Unfortunately, most people don’t know when to upgrade an aging electrical panel. Here are three signs that an electrical panel upgrade or replacement is needed to continue safely providing power to a home or business.
The Space Is Powered By a Fuse Box
Before technology progressed to the point that electrical panels were available, fuse boxes did the job. One of the most vital functions of an electrical panel is that it limits the amount of power that can flow through a circuit so the wiring and outlets are safe from harm. Fuse boxes did the same thing in older construction. The problem is that fuse boxes began to be phased out about 60 years ago in favor of electrical panels.
Fuse boxes need to be updated to fill in some gaps in the safety required for electrical power. Electrical panels offer superior protection with none of the drawbacks. Electrical panels contain circuit breakers that can be reset when they trip, while the fuses in fuse boxes must be manually replaced when a fuse blows, often prompting emergency trips to the hardware store or calls to an electrician.
Old Age or Corrosion
Electrical panels can last a long time in service before needing to be replaced. They can last over 20 years, with an average lifespan of around 25 to 40 years. When an electrical panel reaches this range, it should be inspected to determine if a replacement is needed.
Corrosion, rust, or other damage is another great way to determine if an electrical panel replacement is needed. If corrosion or damage is present, the unit is likely nearing the end of its life expectancy, regardless of its actual age. If spotted, homeowners should have an electrician check it and determine if a replacement is needed.
Frequently Tripping Breakers
If circuit breakers trip regularly, it can signal that the electrical panel is insufficient for the home’s electrical needs. This could be due to more appliances being added to the house. Circuit breakers trip to prevent fire hazards and damage to the wiring and appliances.
An insufficient electrical panel can be a serious safety hazard, so if homes are experiencing regular circuit breaker tripping, it is important to have an electrician inspect the electrical panel and determine if an upgrade or replacement is needed.
About Allsource Electrical Technologies
Allsource Electrical Technologies handles electrical services for homes and businesses. Their caring teams provide same-day service and honest pricing on electrical panel upgrades and other electrical services. Call today for electrical panel replacement or services in Houston, TX.