Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system, ensuring that power flows smoothly to all of your appliances and devices. But like any other part of your home, your electrical panel has a lifespan. Over time, wear and tear can affect its performance, and an outdated or malfunctioning panel can put your home and family at risk.
Recognizing the warning signs of electrical panel failure in Spokane, WA early can prevent costly repairs and, more importantly, protect your home from electrical fires or other serious hazards. In this article, we’ll outline the top five signs that indicate it may be time for an electrical panel upgrade.
1. Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips
One of the most obvious signs that your electrical panel is struggling is when the circuit breakers trip frequently. Circuit breakers are designed to shut off the flow of electricity when there is an overload, short circuit, or fault. However, if they trip regularly, it could indicate that the electrical panel can no longer handle the demand placed on it.
Frequent trips may mean that your electrical panel is outdated or damaged, or it could be that your home’s electrical needs have outgrown your current panel. A licensed electrician in Spokane, WA can assess the situation and recommend a panel upgrade to ensure your electrical system can handle modern electrical loads.
2. Flickering or Dimming Lights
Have you noticed your lights flickering or dimming randomly, especially when you turn on large appliances like the air conditioner or refrigerator? This could be a sign that your electrical panel is not distributing power evenly, or that there is a loose or faulty connection inside the panel.
While occasional flickering can be normal, consistent or frequent occurrences may signal a deeper issue with your panel’s ability to regulate power. If this is happening in your home, it’s best to call a licensed electrician in Spokane, WA to inspect your panel and determine whether it needs to be upgraded to accommodate your home’s needs.
3. Burn Marks or Odd Smells Near the Panel
Burn marks, discoloration, or the smell of burnt plastic near your electrical panel are signs of serious electrical issues. These could be caused by overheating, short circuits, or damaged wires inside the panel. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to act quickly.
An electrical panel that has been damaged by heat or electrical faults can pose a significant fire hazard. If you see burn marks or smell something unusual, it’s time to call a licensed electrician in Spokane, WA immediately to assess the damage and perform any necessary upgrades or repairs to prevent further risks.
4. The Panel Is Older Than 25 Years
Electrical panels, like all appliances, have a lifespan. If your panel is more than 25 years old, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Older panels often lack the safety features and circuit capacities needed to keep up with modern electrical demands, and they are more likely to fail or malfunction.
If your home still has the original electrical panel from when it was built, it may not be able to safely support the power needed for modern appliances, lighting, and technology. A licensed electrician in Spokane, WA can help you determine if it’s time for an upgrade and advise you on the best options to meet your current and future electrical needs.
5. Lack of Space for New Circuits
As your family grows and your electrical needs increase, you may find that you need more circuits to power additional appliances or devices. If your electrical panel is already full, adding new circuits may not be possible. A lack of space for new circuits is a clear sign that it’s time for an electrical panel upgrade.
Upgrading to a larger panel can provide the necessary capacity to handle additional circuits and accommodate your growing electrical demands. This upgrade will ensure that your electrical system remains safe, efficient, and capable of supporting your modern lifestyle.
Don’t Wait—Call a Licensed Electrician in Spokane, WA Today!
An outdated or faulty electrical panel can be dangerous, and addressing the warning signs of electrical panel failure as soon as possible can help prevent costly repairs or even dangerous electrical fires. If you’ve noticed any of the warning signs discussed in this article, don’t wait until it’s too late.
A licensed electrician in Spokane, WA can inspect your electrical panel and determine if an upgrade is necessary. At J&J Electrical Inc., we offer comprehensive electrical panel services to ensure your home is safe and up to code. We operate with normal business hours, and we’re available for emergency services 24/7.
For expert electrical panel inspections, upgrades, and repairs, give us a call at 509-990-7079. Stay safe and keep your home’s electrical system in top condition!
