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6 Signs it’s Time for an Electrical Panel Replacement

How often should electrical panels be replaced? If you are a homeowner of an older home, this might be a question you have wondered once or twice. 

Your electrical panel is one of the most essential components of your home. Without it, you would not have the power you need to be comfortable inside of your home. For this reason, knowing when you need an electrical panel replacement is essential.

Fortunately, you will likely notice when you need a replacement of this essential component. Your power will be inconsistent and you will experience a variety of problems, ranging from warm outlets to a rusty electrical panel. 

If you are wondering when you need to replace your electrical panel, these are the signs that you should. 

1. Your Lights Are Flickering or Dimming

One sign of a faulty electrical panel is flickering and dimming lights. While flickering and dimming can be caused by a few problems, one of the major reasons is an old or poorly functioning circuit breaker. 

2. Your Breaker Is Tripping 

Perhaps the most common sign you need a breaker replacement is if your breaker keeps tripping. This can be a sign your breaker is overloaded. If you are experiencing a problem, contact an electrician right away. 

3. You Notice a Burning Smell 

Have you noticed a burning smell in your home? If so, your breaker might need to be replaced. A burning smell is also an indication of a fire hazard, which is why you should hire an electrician as soon as you can. 

4. You Hear a Buzzing Sound From the Circuit Breaker 

One sign you need to contact Kelly Electric Ltd is if you hear a buzzing sound near your circuit breaker. The buzzing can come from sparks, a loose connection, or a bad wire. You might also hear a hissing sound. 

5. You Don’t Have Enough Outlets

An uncommon sign you might need to upgrade your breaker is if you don’t have enough outlets in your home. This can be a sign that your electrical system cannot accommodate new circuits. 

6. You Have Upgraded an Appliance 

Do you need to upgrade an appliance? Then you might need a circuit breaker replacement. 

If you live in an older home, your wiring might be at capacity with the electronics you currently have. Adding a load to your electrical system can cause problems, including a breaker replacement. 

These Are the Signs You Need an Electrical Panel Replacement

There are many signs you will likely notice when you need an electrical panel replacement.

You might notice your lights are flickering and/or dimming or your breaker is tripping. You might also notice a burning smell or a buzzing sound. While you might not notice a problem, needing more outlets or upgrading your appliances generally results in the need for a replacement. 

If you are experiencing any of these situations, schedule an upgrade as soon as possible. 

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