How to Know When It's Time for a Panel Upgrade in Your Home

Your electrical panel is the control center of your home’s electrical system, distributing power to all parts of the house. Over time, as your electrical needs increase, your current panel may no longer be sufficient. Upgrading your electrical panel can improve safety, prevent overloads, and ensure your home’s power supply meets modern demands. Here’s how to recognize when it’s time for an upgrade.

Signs You Need a Panel Upgrade

If your circuit breakers trip often, this is a clear sign your electrical panel isn’t handling the load. Circuit breakers trip to prevent overheating and potential fires, usually due to an overload or short circuit. When this happens frequently, it's time to consider an upgrade to avoid the risks of electrical damage or fire.

If your home is 25 to 30 years old and still has the original electrical panel, it’s likely outdated. Older panels may not meet today’s power needs and could be prone to malfunctioning. Many older systems also don’t comply with current safety codes, putting your home at risk. An upgraded panel can ensure safety and reliability.

Adding new rooms, finishing a basement, or upgrading to high-power appliances like air conditioning or an electric stove can overwhelm an old electrical panel. These changes often require more electricity, and your panel may not be equipped to handle the increased demand. A panel upgrade ensures your electrical system can support these changes without risk of overload.

If your lights flicker or dim frequently, or your electronics aren’t getting the power they need, it may indicate that your panel is underpowered. This problem is typically caused by an overloaded or malfunctioning panel. Upgrading your panel can resolve these issues and restore a stable power supply to your home.

Scorch marks, burn spots, or a hot-to-the-touch panel are serious warning signs that your electrical system is overheating. This often indicates a problem with the panel that could lead to fire hazards if not addressed immediately. If you notice any signs of damage, call an electrician for a professional inspection and panel upgrade.

Many older homes have electrical panels rated for 100 amps, which might not be sufficient for today’s modern appliances. If you’ve added high-powered devices like HVAC systems or electric cars, you may need a 200-amp panel to safely handle the additional load. Upgrading your panel to 200 amps will provide the capacity your home needs.

Delaying a panel upgrade can lead to dangerous situations, such as electrical fires or costly equipment damage. If your home is showing any of the signs above, it’s important to address the issue quickly to ensure the safety and efficiency of your home’s electrical system.

If you notice any of the issues mentioned or suspect your electrical panel needs an upgrade, contact Leaptrott Electric, Inc. for a thorough inspection. With 42 years of experience, our team in Statesville, North Carolina, is ready to help keep your electrical system safe and reliable.