When Does the Electrical Panel Need Replacing?
An outdated or damaged electrical panel can cause issues and electrical hazards, so it’s important for homeowners to know some of the common signs they need to be replaced. This post will share some signs indicating an electrical panel replacement is needed. Upgrading or replacing the electrical panel when necessary is fundamental to keeping the home’s electrical system safe and efficient.
There’s a Fuse Box Instead of an Electrical Panel
If a home still has a fuse box instead of an electrical panel, it's a sign that an upgrade to a new electrical panel is needed. Fuse boxes are outdated and can pose safety hazards since they're not designed to handle the electrical demands of modern homes. Electrical panels, on the other hand, are newer technology installed in homes after fuse boxes stopped being installed around the 60s and 70s.
The circuit breakers in an electrical panel are designed to trip and are able to be reset when there's an overload or short circuit, preventing damage to the wiring and appliances. Fuses in a fuse box, on the other hand, are one-time-use devices that blow when there's a problem. When a fuse blows, it needs to be replaced, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming.
The Electrical Panel Is Too Old, Damaged, or Corroded
Electrical panels that are too old, damaged, or rusted and corroded need to be replaced for several reasons. They pose a significant safety hazard and are more susceptible to failure. Additionally, outdated electrical panels may not have sufficient capacity to support the increased power demands of modern homes.
The average life expectancy of an electrical panel is about 25 to 40 years, so if a household’s panel is in that age range or older or has visible damage, rust, or corrosion, an electrician should be called to inspect it and determine if an electrical panel replacement is necessary. Replacing the panel ensures the home’s electrical system is reliable and safe, significantly reducing the risk of electrical fires.
The Circuit Breakers Trip Too Often
A circuit breaker trips when the electrical current is too much for the circuit to handle, which protects against electrical fires and hazards. Frequent circuit breaker trips indicate that the circuits or electrical panel cannot handle the home's electrical demands. A household’s electrical demands increase with the addition of new appliances and technology, which means the existing number of circuits or an old panel might not be enough.
An electrician can inspect the electrical panel, breakers, and electrical system to determine the best solution, whether adding additional circuits or replacing the electrical panel, to ensure that the home has the necessary capacity to meet its electrical needs safely and efficiently.
About Postma Heating & Cooling
Postma Heating & Cooling is a family-owned plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical company serving the Chatham-Kent area. They offer straightforward pricing, same-day service, and the latest technology. Call them for an electrical panel upgrade, repair, or replacement in Chatham-Kent, ON.
