Your electrical panel is responsible for safely bringing electricity into your house and distributing it through the breakers. If you have been noticing smoke coming from outlets or your breaker keeps tripping, this is an indication that your electrical system is outdated and needs to be upgraded.
This is a job best left to a licensed electrician. Having an updated electrical panel can also reduce your homeowner’s insurance bill.
Fuses
Fuses are a type of over current protective device. They are made of a thin wire element that is enclosed in a glass, ceramic or metal material. The fuse works on the principle that it will carry a high amount of current without melting until a fault occurs and then interrupts the circuit by cutting off power. It is important that the proper fuse is selected based on the device and electricity requirements. If the incorrect fuse is used it can overheat and cause fires.
Upgrading a fuse box to a breaker panel is an excellent home improvement project. It is a safe and relatively inexpensive way to improve your home’s safety and increase its resale value. A fuse box upgrade is also a great way to help qualify for homeowner’s insurance. When you are ready to upgrade, make sure to contact a licensed electrician. They will make the process easy and quick, helping you get the most out of your home improvement project.
Overloaded Circuit Breakers
An electrical panel upgrade is an investment in your home’s safety. Outdated panels may not be able to handle the amount of electricity modern homes use, which can lead to overloads that cause fuses or circuit breakers to trip. This can be dangerous and put your family at risk.
If you notice sparking in your home, this could be a sign that your electrical system is overloaded. An electrician can help you determine the cause of the issue and recommend an appropriate solution, such as replacing your electrical panel.
If you notice the smell of burning plastic or wood, this is a serious warning sign that your circuit breaker or fuse box is overheating. This is a fire hazard that needs to be addressed immediately and could result in costly damage or even house fires. An electrician can inspect your electrical system and ensure it meets current safety standards.
Overheating Circuit Breakers
Whether you recently added a new large appliance or have an older home with a fuse box, it may be time for an electrical panel upgrade. Known in the industry as a “heavy up,” this type of upgrade equips homes for today’s higher levels of energy usage.
If you notice your circuit breakers are getting hot to the touch, this is a clear sign that it’s time for an electrical panel upgrade. This can lead to overheating and potentially even fires if not addressed in a timely manner.
Upgrading an electrical panel involves shutting off power to the entire house, disconnecting wires and modifying parts of the system. This is a job best left to the professionals to ensure safety and the highest quality of work. This can also be an excellent opportunity to add more outlets around the home for additional functionality and convenience. Upgrading an electrical panel can also improve your home’s value and keep your family safe for years to come.
The Age of Your Panel
The age of your electrical panel is one of the main factors that determines whether or not it needs to be replaced. If you have an old panel, it might not be able to keep up with the demands of modern electrical devices in your home. You may experience constant circuit tripping, or you might notice that your appliances don’t operate as well as they should.
In addition, older panels often use fuses instead of circuit breakers, which are less safe and can overheat and cause fires. If you notice rust on your electrical panel, it’s a good idea to have a professional electrician install a newer and safer electric panel.
There are many benefits to having your residential electrical panel upgraded, including increased safety and the ability to add more outlets throughout your home. It’s also a great way to improve your home’s value and make it more energy-efficient. Contact our experienced electricians today to schedule a free estimate!
