We tend not to think about our electric panel until something goes wrong, yet it’s a foundational aspect of our homes. It’s the device that keeps our food cold, our rooms warm, and the WiFi running.
Yet, just because everything appears to be running smoothly doesn’t mean your panel is safe or efficient. Here are some subtle signs that it’s time to upgrade your electric panel.
You’ve Expanded Your Home
According to the experts at Call Salt electrical repair in Austin, one of the most common signs that a panel upgrade is needed is if you’ve expanded or updated your home. For example, if you’ve added a new bathroom and bedroom, your existing panel may not be equipped to handle the extra load. Additionally, if you’ve recently upgraded your appliances to newer, more powerful models, you may need to update an older panel.
The best way to determine whether an upgrade is required is to consult an expert electrician to evaluate your upgrades and make recommendations.
You Still Have Fuses
If you still have fuses rather than breakers, you’re overdue for an upgrade. Many older homes still run on a fuse box, which isn’t as safe as a breaker. Many insurance companies will penalize you for having a fuse box, charging you more in insurance premiums due to the enhanced electrical fire risk.
There are Signs of Rust
If there are any signs of moisture, rust, or degradation on your panel, you need an upgrade as soon as possible. This issue is a huge potential fire or shock risk that could have devastating results. It’s also integral to find the source of the moisture to ensure you don’t experience the same issue in a few years; you may need to have your electrician relocate the panel.
You Frequently Trip Breakers
Circuit breakers are designed to trip when a system gets overloaded. This event is meant to be a failsafe, not a frequent occurrence. If you notice circuit breakers are tripping more than usual, there’s likely an issue to address.
First, evaluate whether you recently started using new appliances. If your breakers are flipping, your panel or the outlet likely isn’t equipped to handle the load. In some older homes, running things like an air fryer and microwave at the same time on the same circuit could trip the breakers. This event isn’t cause for running out and getting a new panel, but you should be conscientious of what appliances are running simultaneously. If it continues to be an issue, have an electrician take a look.
Your Lights Flicker or Surge
If your lights are constantly flickering or surging, there’s likely a problem with your panel. For example, your lighting shouldn’t change when you run the washing machine. If this is a new development, check the affected lightbulbs first. If the problem persists, it’s a sign that you’re drawing more energy than your system can handle, which forces it to redirect energy from other sources.
Your Panel is Over 20 Years Old
While it’s worth noting that some panels can last for 50 years without an issue, you should consider an inspection and potential replacement after 20 years. As mentioned previously, older panels aren’t equipped to handle the electrical load of newer appliances.
Your panel’s age is often a factor to consider when combined with another issue on this list. If your older panel doesn’t show any signs of degradation and everything seems to be working fine, you can extend the lifespan for a while longer. Consider reassessing if you plan on updating appliances, etc.
Upgrading your electric panel can make your home more efficient and safe while also increasing its resale value. Keep these key signs of trouble in mind so that you know when it’s time for an upgrade.
