Your electrical panel is truly the heart of your home’s electrical system. It’s where all the electricity coming into your home gets distributed to the various circuits, powering everything from your lights to your appliances. But like most things, it doesn’t last forever. Over time, your panel may need an upgrade to keep your home safe and functioning properly. At Loughlin Electric, we’re here to help you determine if it’s time for an upgrade.
Here are some signs that your electrical panel might need some attention:
1. Your Home Still Has a Fuse Box
If your home is still using an old fuse box instead of a modern circuit breaker panel, it’s a clear sign that an upgrade is overdue. Fuse boxes are outdated, often unable to handle the demands of modern appliances, and can pose safety risks. Upgrading to a circuit breaker panel will provide better protection and accommodate today’s electrical needs.
2. Your Panel Feels Hot or Smells Burnt
An electrical panel should never feel hot to the touch or emit any kind of burning smell. These signs can indicate overheating, faulty wiring, or other serious electrical issues that need immediate attention. Ignoring these warning signs could lead to dangerous situations like electrical fires.
3. Frequent Tripped Breakers
If you’re constantly running to the panel to reset tripped breakers, it’s more than just an inconvenience. It’s a sign that your panel is overloaded or that a circuit isn’t functioning properly. A panel upgrade can provide more circuits and better handle your home’s electrical load.
4. You’ve Added Major Appliances
Every time you add a big appliance like a refrigerator, washer/dryer, or HVAC system, you increase the demand on your electrical system. If your current panel wasn’t designed to handle these additions, you’ll need an upgrade to support the extra load safely.
5. Your Home Uses Too Many Extension Cords
While extension cords can be handy in a pinch, relying on them regularly is a sign that your home doesn’t have enough outlets. This often points to an outdated electrical system. An upgraded panel can pave the way for additional circuits and outlets, reducing the need for those pesky extension cords.
6. Your Home Is Over 25 Years Old
Older homes often have panels that were installed decades ago and weren’t built to handle today’s electrical demands. If your home is over 25 years old and the panel hasn’t been upgraded, it’s worth having it inspected to ensure it’s up to modern safety standards.
7. You’re Planning a Renovation
Big renovations, like adding a room or upgrading your kitchen, usually mean higher electrical demands. An electrical panel upgrade ensures your system is ready to handle the extra load, keeping your home both functional and safe.
Why Upgrading Matters
An outdated or overloaded electrical panel isn’t just inconvenient—it’s dangerous. Electrical issues are a leading cause of house fires, according to ESFI (Electrical Safety Foundation International). An old panel just can’t offer the same level of protection as a modern system. Upgrading your panel isn’t just an investment in your home; it’s an investment in your safety and peace of mind.
Contact Loughlin Electric for Expert Advice on a Panel Upgrade in Southeastern Massachusetts
If you’ve noticed any of these signs or have concerns about your electrical panel, don’t wait to take action. At Loughlin Electric, we specialize in helping homeowners upgrade their panels to meet today’s standards. Our team will evaluate your current system, discuss your needs, and recommend the best solution for your home.
Contact us today to schedule an inspection or consultation. Together, we’ll make sure your home’s electrical system is safe, reliable, and ready for whatever the future holds!