Posted on November 17th, 2023.

If you're a homeowner in Philadelphia and the surrounding areas, it's essential to keep a close eye on your electrical panel. Your electrical panel, often referred to as a circuit breaker box, plays a crucial role in distributing electricity throughout your home.

Over time, wear and tear or changes in your electrical needs may necessitate an upgrade. In this guide, we'll walk you through the signs that indicate it's time to consider upgrading your residential electrical panel.

How to Tell When You Need to Upgrade Residential Electrical Panels

Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips

One of the most common signs that your electrical panel needs an upgrade is frequent circuit breaker trips. Circuit breakers are designed to trip and shut off the power when they detect an overload or a short circuit. However, if you find yourself resetting circuit breakers frequently, it could be a sign that your panel can no longer handle your electrical demands. This can be especially frustrating and inconvenient, so it's crucial to address the issue promptly.

Outdated Electrical Panel

Homes that are several decades old may still have outdated electrical panels. These older panels may not meet current safety standards and may lack the capacity to support modern electrical appliances and gadgets. If your home has a fuse box or an older circuit breaker panel, it's a good idea to consult with a professional to assess whether an upgrade is necessary to ensure your safety and convenience.

Flickering or Dimming Lights

Have you noticed your lights flickering or dimming when you turn on appliances like air conditioners or refrigerators? This can be a sign that your electrical panel is struggling to provide enough power to meet your needs. Upgrading to a higher-capacity panel can resolve this issue and provide a more stable power supply throughout your home.

Limited Outlets

In today's tech-savvy world, we rely heavily on electrical outlets to power our devices. If you find that you have too few outlets in your home and are relying on extension cords and power strips to meet your needs, it's a clear indication that your electrical panel may need an upgrade. Additional outlets can enhance both the functionality and safety of your home.

Home Renovations or Additions

Planning a home renovation or adding new rooms to your house? These projects often require additional electrical capacity to accommodate new appliances, lighting, and outlets. Upgrading your electrical panel before starting these projects is a wise move, as it ensures your electrical system can handle the increased load safely and efficiently.

Safety Concerns

Perhaps the most critical reason to consider an electrical panel upgrade is safety. Outdated or overloaded panels can pose serious fire hazards. If you notice any signs of overheating, burning smells, or charred areas around your panel, do not hesitate to contact a professional for an assessment. Your safety and the safety of your home are paramount.

Reach out to us

In conclusion, recognizing the signs that indicate the need for a residential electrical panel upgrade is crucial for the safety and functionality of your home. Frequent circuit breaker trips, outdated panels, flickering lights, limited outlets, home renovations, and safety concerns are all compelling reasons to consult with a professional electrician.

If you're in Philadelphia or the surrounding areas and need expert advice on upgrading your electrical panel, Low Voltage Contractors is here to help. Contact us today at 2675001502 or [email protected] for a thorough assessment and reliable electrical panel upgrade services.

Don't wait until electrical issues become a safety hazard or inconvenience. Ensure that your home's electrical system meets your needs and keeps your family safe. Upgrade your residential electrical panel with confidence, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your electrical system is up to the task.