We’re about to cover some pretty apparent signs that you’re in need of an electrical panel upgrade. The thing is, most homeowners don’t realize that the amount of electronics and appliances they have set up in their home puts an increasingly large amount of demand on their existing electrical panels. Homes today have exponentially more electrical demands than even just a decade ago.
So, when’s the last time you had an electrical inspection? If it hasn’t been within the last 10 years, now is probably the time. Well, actually now is the time—give us a call! We want to help you avoid electrical problems that could lead to electrocution or fire. We’re here to protect your home and family. Read on as we uncover some of the top signs that it’s time for your electrical panel to be upgraded.
You’re Still Using a Fuse Box
Fuse boxes are a bit different than electrical panels. While electrical panels use circuit breakers to split and divert electrical energy and can be reset, fuse boxes have fuses that burn out when overloaded and have to be replaced. These systems have actually been phased out of modern homes, because they simply cannot handle the electrical demand placed on them.
If you’re still using a fuse box, it’s definitely time for an upgrade!
You Have Constantly Tripping Circuit Breakers
There are two factors that contribute to this: the actual age of your electrical panel, and how much of a demand you’re placing on that panel. Either of these can make the panel more susceptible to damage from power surges through the electrical wires, and as a result, your circuit breakers will trip more often.
The reason for this is because they simply can’t handle the amount of electricity going through the panel. Homeowners often think that power surges are created by storms. Sometimes they are. But more often they’re created by large appliances such as your HVAC systems cycling on and overloading the electrical system.
If you find yourself resetting circuit breakers a few times a month when you used to only have to do so a few times a year, you definitely have an outdated electrical panel on your hands.
You Discover Evidence of Electrical Fires
Circuits and electrical wires that get worn down can cause small electrical fires inside the electrical panel. In most cases, they quickly burn themselves out, but you can usually detect the signs that they’ve occurred—plus, you don’t want to rely on them burning themselves out!
If you smell a burning odor coming from your panel, or discover charring and discoloration around the circuit breakers or the wires leading to them, an electrical fire has probably happened. Electrical panels are designed to shut off the circuit if this occurs, but if you continually allow this to happen you could be putting your household at risk.
Contact HB Energy Solutions for all your energy needs. HB Energy Solutions delivers peace of mind along with professional electrical repair in Alstead, NH and beyond.
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