Signs That Your Electrical Panel Needs Repairs

How To Know When Your Electrical Panel Needs To Be Repaired

Your electrical panel is a vital part of your home’s electrical system. It’s actually one-third of the entire operation. Electrical systems are simple in nature, but the inside of an electrical box isn’t so simple. Your electrical panel is probably the most important part of your home. It’s what allows the electricity from the electrical company to flow into the wiring of your house.

To keep your home as safe as possible, it’s important to check on your electrical panel now and then. You also want to be able to spot when your panel needs repairs, but you’ll only know this if you physically look at the panel every so often. Keep reading to learn how to spot when your electrical panel needs to be repaired or replaced.

How To Know When Your Electrical Panel Needs To Be Replaced

The life expectancy of your electrical panel can vary, but the average lifespan is around 60 years. That said, if your panel is exposed to excessive moisture or dust, this will significantly shorten its life.

Once your electrical panel has hit 60 years old, it’s time to look for a replacement. However, if you notice signs of deterioration, you may have to replace it sooner than anticipated.

Some warning signs to look out for are:

• The electrical panel feels warm to the touch: You could have frayed or damaged wires behind the panel.

• The panel design is outdated: An outdated design means an old electrical panel. These panels will look rusty and dirty, and they weren’t designed to handle the demand for power that houses require today.

• Burning or melting: Nothing inside the breaker panel or outside the panel should ever get so hot that it melts. Call an electrician the moment you notice this.

• Flickering or dimming lights: It could be a sign your panel is old or doesn’t have enough power flowing from it.

• Circuit breakers fail or trip often: The circuit breaker panel is designed to protect your home from electrical fires. If it’s cutting off the electricity regularly, you could be having problems with your electrical panel.

Burning Smells & How To Prevent Them

One thing your electrical panel should never smell like is fire or burning. If you notice a burning smell coming from your breaker box, it’s time for a replacement, and you should turn off your power and call an electrician immediately. This is nothing to mess around with. A fire could spark at any moment when there’s a burning smell.

There are two reasons this could be happening:

• Faulty wiring: If the wiring was installed poorly or is getting old, it could be causing the insulation to burn, resulting in the smell.
• Bad electrical panel: If the power is overloading the box and a circuit doesn’t trip, then it’s time for an immediate panel replacement.

This can be prevented with proper installation of wiring, and maintenance appointments with a professional. Keeping your electrical system working efficiently is more than a convenience; it’s a necessity.

Are Your New Lightbulbs Flickering?

Most lightbulbs today come with a 13-year lifespan. Therefore, if you’re noticing your new lightbulbs flickering or dimming randomly, chances are it isn’t because of the lightbulb. Before you waste money and replace the bulb, you may want to check your electrical panel.

Check for any of the above-stated signs of a bad electrical panel first, but nonetheless, you’ll need a professional to properly diagnose this problem. An electrician can tell you if the problem is repairable or if you’ll need a new electrical panel. When it comes to electrical work, it’s always better safe than sorry.

Schedule a Repair With JDV Electric

At JDV Electric, safety and satisfaction are our highest priority. We have been a trusted part of the community since 2005, and we work hard to keep your home running efficiently. We also offer discounts to seniors, military, and first responders. When you’re looking for electrical services in Lansdowne, PA, JDV Electric is always here.

Contact us online to schedule electrical panel services or learn more about our offerings.