If you live in an older home, it’s safe to say that your electrical system may not have what it takes to keep up with modern demands. This is especially true when it comes to your electrical panel, that gray box that’s located either in your basement or utility room. Electrical panel maintenance is important because it helps prevent safety problems. It also ensures you have a reliable supply of power and that your household can keep up with today’s energy needs.
What’s an Electrical Panel?
Your electrical panel, sometimes referred to as a breaker box, is the nerve center that distributes electricity throughout every circuit in your home. Inside the panel are breakers that shut off electricity when there’s a problem. In newer houses, panels are designed to handle more power; however, older panels may be outdated and not as safe.
Signs Your Panel Needs Maintenance
When older panels start having trouble, they’ll give you signs that you need help. Some of the most common are buzzing or crackling sounds near the breaker box, flickering lights, a panel that’s warm to the touch, or breakers that trip often. Don’t wait and hope that the problem will resolve itself because it won’t. Actually, ignoring these issues can lead to disasters, such as electrical fires and the complete destruction of your home.
Even if everything seems fine, you still want to schedule maintenance. Experts recommend that you do this every couple of years or so.
Why Older Homes Are at Greater Risk
Homes built 30 or more years ago weren’t made for today’s power-hungry devices, such as air fryers, gaming systems, computer terminals, fancy appliances, big-screen TVs, and electric cars. Older panels might only support 60 to 100 amps, while modern houses, on the other hand, usually need 150 to 200 amps. Without enough power, you risk overloads, which can damage your wiring, or worse, cause a fire.
If you have either a Zinsco or Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) brand electric panel, you should get it replaced right away. These brands have been known to fail safety tests, and they’re no longer approved for use because of the hazards they create.
What Maintenance Involves
During a maintenance service call, an electrician will thoroughly inspect all components of the panel for wear and tear and loose wiring. They’ll also clean away any debris and tighten connections. Their goal is to make sure that everything is functioning optimally. If they notice any safety hazards, they’ll advise you of those and collaborate with you to form a plan for mitigating them. If you need an electric panel upgrade, they’ll assist you with that as well.
If you’re unsure about the age or condition of your electrical panel or if it has been some time since you last had an inspection, schedule a service call with a licensed electrician. It’s better to be safe than sorry. For electrical panel inspections or maintenance in Eugene, OR, reach out to Excel Electric today.