Top Signs You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade in Havertown PA

Flickering Lights and Power Surges

Do the lights in your home flicker or dim when you plug in appliances or turn on the microwave? This might indicate that your electrical panel is struggling to supply consistent power. Flickering lights can signal an overloaded system, while frequent power surges may indicate inadequate wiring.

For homeowners in Havertown, these issues are often caused by older panels not designed to handle modern electricity demands. Ignoring this could damage your electronics or even become a safety hazard.

What to do: Consider an electrical panel upgrade if you’re experiencing constant flickering or power surges.

Breakers Tripping Frequently

Circuit breakers are designed to trip and disconnect the power supply when a circuit is overloaded, protecting your home from electrical fires. However, if your breakers are tripping frequently, there could be a deeper issue with your panel.

Older panels, particularly those installed decades ago, can often not support the number of modern appliances we use today. If you're resetting breakers more often than you'd like, it could mean your panel is overworked.

What to do: Contact a trusted Havertown electrician who can assess whether the panel is outdated or if there's an issue with your circuits.

Visible Damage or Corrosion

Take a close look at your electrical panel. Do you see rust or corrosion? Visible damage, burnt marks, or other signs of wear can all point to serious concerns with your panel's safety and effectiveness. Corroded components might fail to function correctly over time, causing dangers like electrical shocks or sparks.

Why it matters: Corrosion usually indicates moisture or water exposure, which poses a considerable risk to your home's electrical system. This is a clear sign that an electrical panel upgrade is needed immediately.

What to do: Stop using the panel and contact a certified professional for an inspection.

Burning Smells

One of the most alarming signs is a burning smell from your breaker box or outlets. This could indicate overheating wires or malfunctioning components inside the panel, which, if left unaddressed, may lead to an electrical fire.

What to do: If you notice a burning odor around your panel, it’s critical to turn off the main power supply and call a Havertown electrician right away. Do not attempt to troubleshoot this on your own.

Outdated Panel

Did you know that if your home was built before the 1990s, there’s a chance your electrical panel might no longer be up to code? Outdated panels, such as fuse boxes or older breaker systems, cannot often handle today’s energy needs.

Certain brands, like Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) and Zinsco, have also been flagged for safety concerns. These panels are well-known for not tripping when circuits are overloaded, putting homes at significant risk for fires.

What to do: If your home still uses an outdated model, an electrical panel upgrade is not just a convenience; it’s a necessity.

Adding New Appliances

Whether installing central air conditioning, a new electric oven, or even an EV charger, your panel must have enough capacity to handle the extra load. Adding high-energy appliances to an older panel can easily overload the system.

Why it matters: An overloaded panel can lead to overheating wires, frequent outages, and increased fire risks. Modern appliances require more power than older panels are designed to support.

What to do: Before installing new appliances, consult a Havertown electrician to determine if your existing panel can manage the added load or if an upgrade is needed.

Is it Worth Upgrading an Electrical Panel?

While an electrical panel upgrade might seem significant, the benefits outweigh the costs. Here’s why it’s worth it:

• Enhanced Home Safety: Avoid fire hazards caused by outdated or damaged panels.

• Energy Efficiency: A modern panel supports energy-efficient technologies, saving you money in the long run.

• Peace of Mind: Knowing your home's electrical system is up to code and operating safely brings invaluable peace of mind.

• Boosted Property Value: An upgraded electrical panel is desirable for buyers if you plan to sell your home.

Taking proactive steps to maintain your home's electrical system is one of the best ways to protect your family and your property.

Upgrade Your Panel with a Havertown Electrician

If you've noticed these warning signs, don't delay an electrical panel upgrade. Upgrading the electrical panel is crucial for ensuring the safety and functionality of your home. At Havertown Electrician, we specialize in upgrading outdated electrical panels to modern safety standards.

Professional electricians will carefully assess your current panel and recommend the best action for your home. They understand that every home is unique and provide personalized solutions tailored to your needs.