Your electrical panel powers your entire home, and an outdated one can cause safety risks and inefficiency. Recognizing the signs that you need an electrical panel upgrade is essential to protect your home. This blog details three key indicators that your panel needs replacing with the help of an electrical contractor to ensure safety and improve performance.

Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips

If your circuit breakers trip often, it’s a clear sign your panel is struggling to handle your home’s electrical load. Older panels, typically 100 amps or less, were designed for homes with fewer devices. Modern households with appliances, electronics, and smart systems often require a 200-amp panel to manage the demand.

Frequent trips can lead to power outages or damaged appliances, and in extreme cases, overloaded circuits increase fire risks. The National Fire Protection Association notes that electrical issues cause 44,880 home fires annually. A professional can assess your panel and recommend an upgrade to prevent these issues.

Outdated or Unsafe Panel Types

Certain panel types, like Federal Pacific or Zinsco, are known for safety issues and were common in homes built before the 1990s. These panels often fail to trip during overloads, increasing the risk of electrical fires. If your home has one of these, a panel upgrade is necessary to meet current safety standards.

A licensed professional can identify your panel type during an inspection and confirm if it’s outdated. They ensure the new panel complies with the National Electrical Code, reducing risks. Upgrading also allows for additional circuits to support modern devices like EV chargers.

Insufficient Capacity for Modern Needs

Older panels often lack the capacity for today’s electrical demands, such as smart home systems or high-power appliances. If you can’t add new circuits for devices like air conditioners or hot tubs without overloading your system, your panel is likely undersized. This can cause flickering lights or power surges.

A new panel provides enough capacity for current and future needs, improving efficiency and safety. Professionals calculate your home’s load requirements and install a panel that meets local codes. This upgrade also increases your home’s value, as buyers prioritize modern electrical systems.

Act Now for a Safer Home

A timely panel upgrade protects your home from electrical hazards and boosts efficiency. A licensed electrician ensures your electrical panel upgrade meets safety codes and handles all wiring needs. For reliable results, a residential electrician delivers expertise for your home’s specific requirements.

Contact Red Bear Services today to book your panel inspection and upgrade, ensuring your home stays safe and powered for years to come.

Call now at 801-804-5529!