Your electrical panel is the central hub of your home’s system. It transmits all currents and regulates energy flow when you turn appliances on, flip switches, and use other electric devices. Also called a breaker box, this connection point for circuits requires optimal function to effectively serve your home. When it breaks down, you’ll face shock and fire risks alongside general inconvenience. Below are several common signs that you need an electric panel upgrade.

3 Warnings Signs of Electric Panel Malfunction

1. Singes & Sparking

If you notice singe marks, or worse, experience sparks coming from your electrical panel, it means a disconnection somewhere is creating serious problems. You may also smell burning rubber or metal from overheating wires. Step away immediately and call an emergency electrical contractor right away. They will safely look into the cause and determine if you need repairs or an electric panel upgrade.

2. Persistent Trips

If circuit breakers continuously trip, you’ll face continual power losses in certain parts of your home. You can reset tripped breakers easily on your electric panel, but repeat issues need to be addressed. Trips occur when you’re overloading your circuit. This can lead to fires and shocks. Frequent trips can be related to faulty circuit wiring, damaged wiring, or that the circuit can’t handle the demands you place on it.

3. Age

If your circuit breaker hasn’t been checked for 10 years or more and you live in an older home, have a residential electrician perform an electrical inspection. Panels are designed to last decades, but they may not be able to handle the workload modern appliances demand. Breakers may be ready to fail, and an electrician will determine if it’s best to perform an electric panel upgrade before problems arise.

Bonham Electric, Inc. has proudly served the Dayton, OH, area since 1959. As a full-service electrical contractor, they address all number of commercial and residential home systems. Their factory-certified professionals can handle repairs, electric panel upgrades, and wiring installation and will ensure you have a safe, energy-efficient system. Call (937) 233-7662 to schedule an inspection and visit their website to learn about their green solutions.