As homes age and electrical demands grow, it’s important to check if you need an electrical panel upgrade ST Louis. Your home’s electrical panel is the heart of your electrical system, distributing power to every room, appliance, and device.
An outdated or overloaded panel can lead to electrical hazards, such as fires or power outages. To help ensure your home’s safety and functionality, here are seven signs that you may need an electrical panel upgrade.
- Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips
If your circuit breakers frequently trip, it’s a sign that your electrical panel is struggling to handle the demand on your system.
Circuit breakers are designed to shut off power when there is an overload or fault, protecting your home from potential damage.
However, if they trip often, it may indicate that the panel is outdated or unable to handle the electrical load from modern appliances, electronics, and devices.
Hiring a licensed electrician ST Louis for panel upgrade can ensure your electrical panel meets current demands.
- Your Electrical Panel Is Old
Electrical panels, like any other appliance, have a lifespan. If your electrical panel is more than 20 to 30 years old, it may no longer be safe or reliable.
If your panel is aging, it’s a good idea to have a licensed electrician assess whether an upgrade is necessary to ensure the safety of your home’s electrical system.
- You’re Adding New Appliances Or Home Improvements
If you’re planning a major home renovation, adding high-powered appliances (like an electric stove, HVAC system, or a home theater), or installing more lighting, your current electrical panel may not handle the increased load.
Upgrading your panel can help you avoid overloading circuits and ensure your home remains safe as your electrical needs grow.
- Flickering Or Dimming Lights
Flickering or dimming lights can indicate an overloaded electrical system or a failing electrical panel.
When the panel can’t distribute electricity efficiently, lights may flicker or dim, especially when using multiple appliances or turning on high-wattage devices.
This is annoying and could point to potential safety issues, such as overheating wires or faulty connections within the panel.
- A Burning Smell Or Scorch Marks
If you notice a burning smell or see scorch marks around your electrical panel, it’s a serious safety concern. These are signs of overheating or short circuits, which could lead to a fire.
If you spot these issues, turn off the panel’s power immediately and call an electrician. An upgrade or complete panel replacement may be necessary to address the problem and avoid fire risks.
- You Have A 60-Amp Panel Or Lower
Most modern homes require a 100-amp or 200-amp electrical panel to support the electrical load from today’s appliances and technology. If your home has a 60-amp panel or lower, it may not be sufficient for your needs.
A 60-amp panel was commonly used in older homes but is now considered outdated and unable to support the electrical demand of modern households.
Upgrading to a larger panel ensures you can safely power everything in your home without worrying about overloading the system.
- You’re Planning To Sell Your Home
If you’re preparing to sell your home, having an outdated or insufficient electrical panel could be a red flag for potential buyers.
Homebuyers are increasingly concerned with the safety and efficiency of a property’s electrical system, and an old or underpowered panel may turn them off.
Upgrading the electrical panel before listing your home can make it more attractive to buyers and may increase its value.
Conclusion
An electrical panel upgrade invests in your home’s safety, comfort, and future. If you notice any of the above signs, consult with a licensed electrician to evaluate whether an upgrade is necessary.
Don’t wait for a dangerous situation to occur—taking action early can help prevent costly repairs, improve the safety of your home, and ensure your electrical system is prepared for the demands of modern living.
If you’re unsure about the condition of your electrical panel, schedule a professional inspection to get the peace of mind you deserve.
At Bates Electric, we specialize in electrical panel upgrades and can help you determine whether your panel needs to be upgraded to meet your home’s electrical demands.
Our team of licensed electricians is committed to providing safe, reliable, and efficient solutions to keep your home running smoothly.
Don’t risk the safety of your home and family with an outdated electrical system. Contact us for a thorough inspection and expert advice on upgrading your electrical panel.
With our professional services, you can rest assured that your home will be well-equipped to handle the power demands of today’s modern appliances and technology. Let us help you make the right decision for your home’s safety and long-term electrical health.