4 Signs You Need To Upgrade Your Electrical Panel

4 Signs You Need To Upgrade Your Electrical Panel

Your electrical panel might not look like it does much, but it’s the hub of your home’s power. It’s responsible for bringing electricity into the home, then diverting it where it needs to go.

Today’s homes require more power than ever, and the electrical panel is sensitive to power demands. It’s entirely possible that your outdated panel needs replacing.

Read on to learn four key signs it’s time for an electrical panel upgrade in Newton or beyond, and don’t hesitate to reach out to Castle Electric if you have questions or need help with your electrical panel!

1) It Was Installed More than 20 Years Ago

Homes that are only a few decades old may have outdated electrical panels. This is because panels installed back then typically only had 60 to 100-amp capability. Today, it’s normal for a home to demand more electrical power, so modern panels are usually 200-amps, which allow bandwidth for multiple televisions, smart appliances and all of the regular electronic devices you use.

You’ll probably notice if your electrical panel isn’t able to handle demand because your lights might flicker or your appliances might not run at full capacity. You probably also have to use multiple power strips due to a lack of outlets! If there is a weakness in your home’s electrical power output, the first spot to look is the electrical panel. Check the amp rating on the inside door to find your electrical panel rating.

2) Panel Produces Heat or Burning Smell

When the electrical panel box feels warm or produces a burning smell, it could signify faulty wiring or an overloaded, defective panel. We highly recommend scheduling a service appointment and potential electrical panel upgrade because heat can mean a high chance of electrical fire.

3) You Have a Fuse-Based System

Many electrical panels in older homes built before the 1970s still operate on fuses. Unlike circuit breakers which you can reset, fuses either melt, burn out or blow completely when they’re tripped. This is a fire hazard, and for an older home that needs to meet modern power demands, it’s definitely unsafe.

4) You’re Renovating

If you’re building an addition onto an older home, don’t expect an older electrical panel to be able to keep up with the additional power demand. Adding square footage and appliances means your electrical system needs an upgrade too.

Be warned: there may be many DIY-videos online, but upgrading an electrical panel is not a task we recommend the average homeowner taking on! In fact, most cities and town require the project to be completed by a master electrician.

5) Bonus Sign: You’re Frequently Tripping Circuit Breakers

If you’re finding that your circuit breakers trip often, this is a strong indication that your electrical panel can’t handle your home’s current power demands. While it’s normal for a breaker to trip occasionally when too many high-demand appliances are running, frequent trips are a red flag that your panel is outdated or overloaded.

Breakers are designed to trip to prevent overheating and electrical fires, so constant tripping is a clear sign your panel may need an upgrade. If you regularly have to reset breakers, it might be time to contact an electrician to inspect your system and discuss options for upgrading.

Get Help from Electrical Panel Experts in Newton

Our experienced Norwood electricians and Newton electricians here at Castle Electric provide quality upgrade and repair services for electrical panels. We will guide you to the best decision based on your situation. For a work order request, feel free to call or fill out our online forms!