Ignoring the warning indicators on your electrical panel that need maintenance can be dangerous and inconvenient. However, identifying these warning indicators early and taking prompt action, such as seeking advice from a qualified electrician and considering an upgrade, can help prevent potential risks and meet the increasing energy demands of modern homes.
In this blog, we’ll examine the primary panel upgrade signs and provide advice on what to look for and what to do next.
Electrical Panel Upgrade Signs
There are several indicators that your home may benefit from an upgrade to its panel system. The distribution of energy throughout your home depends on the electrical panel, sometimes referred to as the breaker box or fuse box. Here are some common indicators that may suggest the need for an upgrade:
Frequently Tripping Circuit Breakers
If your circuit breakers are frequently tripping, it’s a sign that your electrical panel may be overloaded. In such cases, the panel automatically shuts off to prevent electrical overloads and mitigate potential safety risks when the energy demand exceeds its capacity.
Dimming Or Flickering Lights
Unexpected brightness, dimming, or flickering of your lights might be a sign of an electrical panel problem. Such variations in illumination across several lights might indicate an issue with the panel’s electrical regulation capability.
Burn or Charred Marks
Look for burn marks or a burned smell on the electrical panel. These indicators point to electrical arcing or overheating, both of which can be quite dangerous. It’s critical to recognize these indicators to stop any electrical fires.
Older Panel Age
There is a lifetime for electrical panels. The electrical panel in your house may not be able to keep up with the demands of contemporary devices and appliances if it is older. Panels that are more than 30 years old may not have the capacity required to meet modern power demands.
Excessive Use of Extension Cords and Power Strips
If you use power strips or extension cables a lot, it may be an indication that you don’t have enough outlets or that your electrical panel can’t handle the needs of your home’s electricity usage. This excessive dependence on makeshift power sources might mean that an upgrade to a panel is necessary to meet your needs.
How to Respond to these Panel Upgrade Signs
It’s critical to take immediate action to resolve any of these symptoms if you want to guarantee the effectiveness and safety of your home’s electrical system. Here’s what you can do:
Consult with a Professional
You must get in touch with a certified electrician like those at LB Electric if you have any concerns about your electrical panel. Our experts can evaluate the state of your panel because we are qualified to examine electrical systems. We will advise you on the best course of action and determine whether an update is required.
Upgrade the Electrical Panel
Upgrade to a higher-capacity panel that can accommodate your present and future electrical demands if the electrician suggests it. For your safety and convenience, it can be required to replace an outdated panel with a newer, higher-amp panel since it might not be able to handle the demands of contemporary appliances and devices.
Follow Safety Guidelines
Only trained specialists should perform electrical work due to its high risk. To ensure that the work is done safely and to standards, make sure the electrician upgrades the panel following local building laws and safety requirements.
Consider Future Needs
When considering an improvement, consider the electricity you will need in the future. Your power requirements might go up dramatically if you add more appliances, make renovations, or decide to utilize electric cars, electric heat pumps and electric heating. Plan appropriately to make sure the improved panel can handle these needs in the future.
Budget for the Upgrade
Modernizing the electrical panel is an investment in the operation and safety of your house. Set aside money for this upgrade appropriately. While it may seem like an expense, it’s a necessary investment that ensures the effectiveness and safety of your home’s electrical system.
LB Electric – Reliable & Prompt Electrical Contractors in Ottawa
Knowing when to replace your panel is essential to maintaining the safety, effectiveness, and flexibility of your home’s electrical system. In light of evolving technology and rising power consumption, homeowners may efficiently manage their electrical needs by paying attention to these indicators and realizing the value of upgrading their panels.
Don’t wait for electrical problems to become a risk. Please contact us at LB Electric, your neighborhood electrician in Ottawa, for an evaluation, security, and modernization of your house’s electrical panel. At LB Electric, we have qualified electricians who specialize in complete panel upgrades. We guarantee efficiency and safety in adherence to provincial electrical laws. Upgrade your house to a safer and more energy-efficient state. For your Ottawa panel upgrading needs, put your trust in LB Electric.
