An electrical panel, also known as a service panel or circuit breaker box, is the gatekeeper of your entire electrical system. It ensures that you’re able to utilize electricity efficiently and safely. Like other components, electrical panels can break down to the extent that repairs are no longer an option.

 

Since your electric panel is the heart of your home’s power supply and its defense against overload, it’s important to keep it in good working order at the proper amperage. 10% of home fires in America are electrical fires. You can avoid dangerous fires like these with the proper upgrade.

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If your home operates on fuses, it’s probably time to upgrade. Fuses are not as safe or reliable as circuit breakers and often insurance companies will penalize you for having an outdated system.

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Check the amount of amperage coming into your panel. Ideally you want a rating of 200 amps to power a modern home safely. If your amperage is lower, electrical panel replacement is the best solution.

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As a rule of thumb, electric panels need replacing every 25-40 years, so if your home is that age, there’s a likelihood that you will need to upgrade. However, there are other key signs to look out for that will tell you when your existing system is becoming outdated. You should make regular checks to your electric panel, even if you haven’t needed to undertake any electrical fixes. In particular, you should check for signs of rust or scorching, both of which indicate underlying damage to the system.

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Your electric panel distributes electricity via circuits in your home. Different rooms, areas, or appliances have their own dedicated circuits. All your kitchen outlets, for instance, might be on one circuit, while your living room outlets are another circuit. Ideally you or the electrician has labeled all of the circuits on your panel. You control each circuit in your home using a Circuit breaker. They are the switches inside your electric panel. If a circuit becomes overloaded, then they’ll simply switch off the power to it. You can unplug whatever overloaded the circuit and flip the breaker back on without replacing it.

 

However, in some situations, it will be necessary for you to upgrade your electric panel to a more advanced system.

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Reasons for upgrading or replacing your electrical panel

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• Better Electrical Performance – If your lights are flicking when you turn on certain appliances or your breaker trips frequently.

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• Improved Electrical System Safety – Older electrical panels have a much easier time getting overloaded and potential fire hazards

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• Future Expansion – If you ever need to add circuits to your home, you’ll need a more extensive service panel.

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Whether you need to replace an old electrical panel, have a new house with new electrical requirements, or simply want to add additional circuits to your electrical panel. SB Building Solutions can get it done for you. We have trained, experienced, and versatile electricians who can tackle any job diligently – including upgrading your existing electrical panel or installing a new one.

 

If you’re planning an electrical project and are looking for top-notch electrical contractor call SB Building Solutions today.

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