5 Signs Your Electrical Panel Is Outdated

Today, more than ever, we rely on electricity to power our lives and the technology we use daily. Our home’s electrical panel is the powerhouse of it all, distributing power safely and efficiently throughout our homes. If you’re noticing issues with your electricity, it could be due to the age or condition of your electrical panel. There are some clear steps you can take to determine if your electrical panel is functioning properly or needs an upgrade. 

What Types of Electrical Panel Do You Have?

Before determining if your panel needs an upgrade, it’s essential to know what type you have and how old it is. 

• Fuse Boxes: Older homes often have fuse boxes, which use fuses to prevent circuit overloads. 
• Circuit Breaker Panels: These are the standard in modern homes, with breakers that look like switches that trip to cut off power and prevent overloads.
• Sub Panels: These panels feature smaller panels that branch off the main panel, often used in garages or separate structures on your property. 
• Main Breaker Panels: This type of panel includes a primary breaker that can shut off power to the entire house, adding an extra layer of safety.

5 Signs Your Electrical Panel Is Outdated

1. Frequent Breaker Tripping

If your breakers trip often, it’s a signal that your panel might be overloaded and not capable of handling your home’s electrical demands. 

2. High Electric Bills

If you notice a significant spike in your electric bills without a clear reason, it could be that your panel and wiring are not operating efficiently, requiring more power to perform the same tasks.

3. You Smell a Burning Odor

If you ever detect a burning odor near your panel, it’s crucial to call an electrician immediately to prevent potential hazards. This could indicate overheating wires, which pose a significant fire risk.

4. Strange Sounds

Popping, crackling, or buzzing sounds coming from your electrical panel are not normal. These noises can indicate loose connections, faulty breakers, or even a short circuit and can be dangerous. They should only be addressed by a professional.

5. Dimming Lights

If your lights dim or flicker frequently, especially when using multiple appliances, your electrical panel isn’t distributing power evenly, which means your panel is likely outdated and struggling to keep up with your home’s electrical needs.

How To Check if Your Panel Is Safe?

Checking the safety of your electrical panel is crucial to prevent electrical fires and ensure your home runs smoothly. First, look for any signs of rust, scorch marks, or physical damage. Then check for unusual sounds and burning odors. All of these are signs of potentially dangerous situations and it’s time to call in a professional. A highly trained electrician like the team at Iddings Electric can perform a load test to determine if your panel is actually capable of handling your home’s current electrical demands.

Trust Your Electrical Panel to the Experts at Iddings Electric

Your electrical panel is the backbone of your home’s electrical system. Ensuring it’s up to date and safe is vital for not only safety, but to make sure your home is operating as energy-efficiently as possible. If you notice any of the signs mentioned, or if you’re unsure about the condition of your panel, don’t hesitate to consult the team at Iddings Electric. We’ll help you decide if you can repair your current panel or if upgrading your electrical panel is the best solution for peace of mind and to protect your home from potential hazards.

Trust the team at Iddings Electric to diagnose, evaluate, and upgrade your electrical panel. With over 20 years of experience, our highly trained technicians are background-checked and ready to provide excellent service and customized recommendations for your needs. We offer straight-forward pricing, same-day service, and even guarantee our work so that you can have peace of mind knowing the safety of your home is in expert hands. 

Don’t wait! Schedule an evaluation or upgrade of your electrical panel with Iddings Electric today.