Where would we be without electricity? It seems like everything in our homes are powered by electrical currents, which is why you must take care of your electrical system. The last thing you want is to be without power when you need it most. Electric panels are a vital part of any home’s electrical system, distributing power to every component that needs it. This equipment must be properly taken care of to avoid premature failure, and when it is time for an electric panel replacement you must consult a professional. Continue reading to learn how to spot a failing electric panel and what you should and shouldn’t do to fix it.
Signs Your Need a New Electrical Panel
Electric panels are built to last anywhere between 25-40 years, depending on the environment they’re in and how well they are maintained. It’s rare that you’ll need an electric panel replacement earlier than this. Regardless of how old your equipment is, there are certain signs you must watch out that can indicate it might be time for an electric panel change. The most obvious signs include burning smells or scorch marks on your panel as this indicates your panel can’t contain the electricity it’s distributing anymore. Flip the main breaker and call an electrician immediately as these signs often mean a fire is likely to start at any moment.
Signs that you need an electric panel replacement aren’t always so obviously dangerous. For example, flickering lights and frequent circuit breaker trips can indicate that your panel is struggling to keep up with your current power load and it’s time for a replacement. These are often early warning signs and should be addressed right away before an electrical fire becomes more likely.
Sometimes nothing may be currently wrong with your electric panel, but if you’re planning on upgrading other appliances it might need to be replaced. Newer devices like EV chargers can add a significant load to your electrical system and your current panel might not be able to keep up. So, when you start planning to upgrade your in-home appliances, consult a licensed electrician about an electric panel replacement to ensure your new system can handle your new load.
Why You Shouldn’t DIY Electrical Panel Replacements
Electric panel replacements are a very complicated process that involves not just your breaker box, but the entire electrical system of your home. While attempting an electrical panel change on your own might be tempting due to supposedly lower costs, it can be very dangerous and even violate safety codes. Licensed electricians, like the ones at Landis Electric, are always up to date on the latest electrical codes and safety standards so they can install a new panel without any issue. They also have the proper safety equipment you may not, such as insulated tools and gear, voltage testers, and cable connectors. This is vital as working with electricity can shock and harm you or cause dangerous fires if done incorrectly.
Not only is attempting an electric panel replacement on your own dangerous, in some cases it’s even illegal. Every local government is different, but most require a permit for major electrical work such as replacing a panel. Electric panels must also be professionally inspected before the power is turned back on, to ensure everything was installed correctly. This cannot be done alone and requires a licensed electrician with the proper licenses, permits, and experience to keep your home safe.
What to Expect During Installation
When it’s time for an electric panel replacement, plan ahead and call a licensed electrician. Because your electric panel distributes all the electricity in your home, the main power will be turned off for the entire upgrade to prevent possible electrocution. Typically, this means that power will be shut off for six to eight hours while electricians disconnect the old panel and install the new one. Following the electric panel change, all the circuits will need to be tested to make sure nothing was overlooked. After one business day, you should be left with a new electric panel and an even distribution of power across your home.
Maintenance Tips
The best way to prolong electric panel replacements is by taking care of your electric panel and systems. Start by keeping the area around your electric panel clear and use a soft cloth or compressed air to clean away any debris. This ensures proper ventilation to your equipment which will help prevent overheating. You should also try to evenly distribute your appliances across your circuits to avoid overloading the system. Repeated overloading can do serious harm to your entire electrical system, increasing the chances of wire damage and fires. And if nothing else, your electric panels need to be inspected by a professional every three to five years to identify potential issues as well as room for efficiency upgrades. Taking care of your electric panel now ensures it will last longer and keeps the rest of your electrical system safe.
Ready for an Electric Panel Replacement?
Electric panel changes shouldn’t happen very often, but when it’s time for an upgrade it’s best to leave it to the professionals. These complicated systems can be dangerous to work with if you don’t have the proper experience and can affect your entire home if not carefully maintained and replaced. If you think your home needs an electric panel replacement, call to schedule a consultation with Landis Electric. Our team of licensed electricians will be able to help you optimize your entire electrical system safely and efficiently.