As a homeowner, it's important to ensure that your electrical system is up to date and functioning optimally. One crucial component of your electrical system is the electrical panel, also known as the breaker box. Over time, your electrical panel may require an upgrade to meet the increasing demands of modern appliances and electronics, ensuring the safety and efficiency of your home. In this blog post, we will discuss five signs that indicate you need an electrical panel upgrade and provide you with valuable tips to address these issues.
1. Frequent Circuit Breaker Tripping
If you find yourself constantly resetting tripped circuit breakers, it's a clear indication that your electrical panel is struggling to handle the electrical load. This issue often arises when you add new appliances or electronics to your home. Upgrading your electrical panel will increase its capacity, preventing frequent circuit breaker tripping and potential electrical hazards.
2. Outdated Panel Design
Older homes often have outdated electrical panels that no longer meet modern safety standards. If your electrical panel has a fuse-based design or uses outdated technology, it's time for an upgrade. Upgrading to a modern circuit breaker panel will provide better protection against electrical overloads and short circuits, minimizing the risk of electrical fires.
3. Insufficient Power Supply
Do you experience dimming lights or power fluctuations when using multiple appliances simultaneously? This indicates that your electrical panel is unable to supply enough power to meet your household's demands. An electrical panel upgrade will ensure a sufficient power supply, allowing you to use all your appliances without any interruptions or voltage drops.
4. Home Renovations or Additions
If you're planning to renovate your home or add new rooms, it's crucial to assess your electrical panel's capacity. Additional rooms and appliances will require more power, and an outdated panel may not be able to handle the increased load. Upgrading your electrical panel before undertaking any major renovations will ensure that your electrical system can support the new additions safely and efficiently.
5. Presence of Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) Panels
Some older homes may still have Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panels, which were notorious for their safety issues. FPE panels have a higher risk of circuit breakers failing to trip during an overload or short circuit, potentially leading to electrical fires. If your home has an FPE panel, it's crucial to upgrade to a safer and more reliable electrical panel.
Upgrading your electrical panel is a complex task that requires the expertise of a professional electrician. At Epic Electric, we specialize in electrical panel upgrades and provide top-notch electrical services in Murrieta, CA. Our team of experienced electricians will assess your electrical system, address any issues, and ensure a safe and efficient upgrade.
Don't compromise the safety and performance of your electrical system. Contact Epic Electric today to schedule an electrical panel upgrade and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home is equipped with a reliable and up-to-date electrical panel.