Is It Time To Replace Your Electrical Panel?
With our unpredictable weather, Ohio ranks among the top states with the most power outages each year. An outdated panel may not be equipped to protect against surges that can damage appliances and fixtures during a power outage. Outside of outages, electrical issues can be very dangerous, so it’s important to keep an eye out for signs of problems. An electrical panel upgrade may be necessary to keep you safe and ensure your electrical can adequately support your power demands.
Contact Heart of Ohio to learn more about the electrical services we provide.
What Is an Electrical Panel Upgrade?
Your electrical panel is the central hub that controls all the wiring and power in your home. Electrical panels have different circuits that supply power to various areas of your home. If you experience an electrical surge in a circuit, for example, having too many things plugged in in your bathroom, the breaker will trip. This means the breaker will automatically cut power to that circuit to prevent hazards like overheating or electrical fires.
You may want to consider a panel upgrade to improve the safety, capacity, and efficiency of your electrical system. A “heavy up” or service upgrade involves upgrading the amperage capacity of your panel so it can handle a larger electrical load and adequately support all your devices and appliances.
Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Electrical Panel
Replacing or upgrading your electrical panel may be necessary if your electrical is outdated, hazardous, or can’t support your power needs. It’s important to look out for signs of electrical issues to maintain a smooth-functioning home and prevent safety concerns.
Signs it’s time to replace your electrical panel include:
Your Circuit Breakers Are Tripping
Circuit breakers trip to protect your home from the dangers an overloaded system can cause. If your circuit breakers are tripping frequently, this indicates a chronic issue with your electrical. Frequently tripped breakers are a sign that your electrical demands are too much for your current system. In older homes, this is common because they often have circuit breakers that weren’t designed to support modern appliances.
Flickering or Dimming Lights
Flickering lights or lights that dim on their own are a sign of a failing circuit breaker. If only one light fixture is flickering or dimming, the bulb could just be loose, but if the problem persists or is happening with multiple fixtures, this indicates an issue with your circuit breaker.
You’re Planning a Large Renovation
If you’re planning a large renovation, it may be smart to do a panel upgrade at the same time. During a renovation, you can add more outlets and install new fixtures. Replacing your electrical panel at the same time is cost-effective because an electrician can get multiple jobs done simultaneously, saving you money on labor costs. Inspections are also required for renovations, and an inspection may find that you need to upgrade your electrical anyway.
Your Panel Is Over 25 Years Old
Electrical panels can last up to 30 to 40 years, but their longevity depends on factors such as power outages, strained circuits, and how often they’ve been inspected or maintained. If your panel is over 25 years old and struggling to meet your needs, it may be time for a replacement.
You Notice Crackling or Buzzing Sounds
Crackling and buzzing sounds, or even the smell of something burning, is a serious problem that needs to be addressed by a professional immediately. These strange noises and smells could indicate loose or frayed wiring or an imminent component failure, increasing the risk of house fires.
There’s Sparks or Smoke
Sparks or smoke is a clear and concerning sign that your electrical panel is having serious issues. If you’ve noticed shocks, sparks, smoke, or outlets that are melted or singed, call an electrician right away.
Call Heart of Ohio To Upgrade Your Panel
The expert electricians at Heart of Ohio offer superior electrical services, including comprehensive electrical panel upgrades. Our team will help evaluate your home, electrical needs, and budget before upgrading your panel, ensuring optimal performance and safety. We offer over 100 years of combined experience, free in-home estimates, flat-rate pricing, and much more.
Call Heart of Ohio to schedule electrical panel services today.
Contact Us
Contact
The Benefits of Combining Companies
The best of each company; the potential to grow
- An expanded service area
- Faster 24/7 service
- More efficient manpower on projects
- Technicians who have been trained in specialty services
- All home services under one name