Your breaker panel is one of the most important parts of your home and should be maintained to ensure it’s reliable and provides you with enough power each day. Although breaker panels are made to last an average of 20 to 30 years, they can start to break down and need to be replaced due to damage. Here are a few of the most common signs that your breaker panel needs a replacement on your property in Eugene, Oregon.
1. Old Age
Many of the houses in Eugene were built in the mid-1800s, which means they have breaker panels that are likely old and outdated. If your breaker panel is at least 25 years old, it’s time to replace it by calling a professional electrician from a company like Excel Electric, which serves Eugene and the surrounding areas.
Older breaker panels should be replaced as soon as possible due to how dangerous they can become and the high risk of electrical fires that can occur.
2. Not Enough Outlets
If you live in an old home, you may be frustrated by the lack of outlets that are available throughout the residence. This can cause you to rely on extension cords to perform different tasks. You should consider upgrading your breaker panel this summer to ensure new outlets can be installed where you need them. This will prevent the current outlets from being overtaxed when you need to plug in your computer or charge a smartphone.
3. Wear and Tear on the Breaker Panel
The breaker panel can feel warm to the touch, which indicates it’s starting to overheat. This is a common sign that the entire panel needs to be replaced. Hire a professional electrician to perform an inspection of the breaker panel to diagnose the issue and determine if it’s no longer safe to use.
4. Unusual Noises
When breaker panels reach the end of their lifespan, they can start to make unusual sounds like hissing and buzzing. This is problematic because breaker panels are designed to operate silently. The sounds can develop due to poor connections and bad wires, which are dangerous and need immediate attention.
5. Rust
Perform an inspection of your breaker panel to determine if any rust is present, which is a sign that water damage has occurred. Immediately find the cause of the water damage to ensure any potential leaks that are present can immediately be repaired to avoid future electrical problems or fires.
Feel free to contact our team at Excel Electric in Eugene, Oregon today to learn more about when it’s time to upgrade your breaker panel. Our team will be happy to provide you with assistance.