Don’t Be in the Dark:Signs You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade

Your electrical panel is the silent, unseen hero of your home. It tirelessly distributes power throughout your entire living space, ensuring everything from your lights to your fridge function smoothly. But like any hero, your panel can’t fight forever. Signs of aging and increased electrical demands might signal it’s time for an upgrade. So, how do you know when it’s time to call in the electrical cavalry?

Age Matters:

• Over 25 years old: While some panels last longer, a general rule of thumb is that panels over 25 years old might be nearing the end of their lifespan. Newer panels offer improved safety features and can handle the increased electrical demands of modern appliances.
• Specific brands: If your panel is made by Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) or Zinsco, immediate replacement is crucial. These brands have a history of safety hazards and are often not up to code.

Warning Signs:

• Frequent breaker trips: Breakers are designed to trip when circuits are overloaded. If you find yourself constantly resetting them, it’s a sign your panel can’t handle the current load.
• Dimming or flickering lights: This can indicate an overloaded circuit or a faulty panel. Don’t ignore this, as it can lead to bigger problems.
• Warmth to the touch: Your panel should never feel warm. If it does, it could be overheating, posing a serious fire risk.
• Burning smell: This is a major red flag and requires immediate attention from a qualified electrician. Don’t attempt to investigate this yourself.
• Lack of available breaker slots: If you need to run additional circuits for new appliances or renovations but have no space in your panel, an upgrade is necessary.

Planning for the Future:

• Home renovations: Adding features like pools, hot tubs, or sunrooms often increase your electrical load. Upgrading your panel before starting these projects ensures your home can handle the additional power demands safely.
• Going solar: Solar panels require dedicated circuits. Ensure your existing panel has the capacity to handle the additional load before installing them.

Safety First:

Our Electrical team recently upgraded several home in downtown Salt Lake City and before begging the project they noticed one panel no longer was grounded. This is a huge fire hazard and the cost could have been great but this homeowner was practice and called Key Lime Electric before any problem arose.

Remember, electrical work should only be done by a qualified and licensed electrician. If you suspect any issues with your electrical panel contact Key Lime Electrical for an inspection and discuss your upgrade options.

Investing in a new electrical panel is an investment in the safety and efficiency of your home. Don’t wait for a major problem to arise. Be proactive, identify the signs, and make the call to ensure your home continues to shine brightly for years to come.