Your home’s electrical panel plays a crucial role in its electrical system, ensuring every outlet in your house has power. However, electrical panels don’t last forever—they will need to be replaced and updated to ensure their safety and efficiency.
Knowing when to upgrade or replace your electrical panel in Northern Virginia is essential to protecting your property and ensuring your home has safe and reliable power. So, when should you consider updating or replacing your electrical panel?
10 Signs It’s Time for an Electrical Panel Upgrade
Here are 10 signs it’s time to have a professional look at your home’s panel to determine if a replacement or upgrade is necessary.
1. Your Electrical Panel Is Over 25 Years Old
Although electrical panels can last for decades, if your home’s panel is over 25 years old, it’s worth getting it checked out by a residential electrician to be safe. Older panels may not meet current safety standards or modern power demands and can lead to electrical problems.
2. The Panel Has Outdated Components
If your electrical panel still has a fuse box or outdated panel configurations, it’s time to consider upgrading to ensure safety. If you’re unsure if your panel has outdated components, a licensed electrician can help determine this with an inspection.
3. Your Home’s Electrical Panel Has Been Recalled
Some older panel models have been recalled due to safety concerns. If your panel is on this list, it’s essential to replace it. Some recalled panel brands include Zinsco, Challenger, Federal Pacific Electric, and some models from Schneider Electric.
4. It’s Time for More Outlets or Circuits
If you need to add more outlets or circuits to your home to accommodate increased power demands, you may also need to update your Northern Virginia home’s electrical panel. In some cases, outlets can be added without updating the panel, but always ask an electrician to ensure safety.
5. You Need to Update Your Outlets to GFCI
If your home doesn’t have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets, especially in areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor locations, it’s essential to upgrade for safety reasons. GFCI outlets protect against electrical shocks and burns in areas that have water.
6. You’re Renovating Your Home
Renovating your home or adding an addition to your Northern Virginia property typically requires an electrical panel upgrade. This is because you’re adding more outlets and power demands to the property, so the panel needs to be able to accommodate the increased demand.
7. The Panel Has Visible Damage
Electrical panels that have visible damage, including corrosion, rust, or other visible damage, may need to be repaired or replaced for safety. Damage such as this can be dangerous and lead to fire or shock hazards.
8. You’re Adding High-Power Devices or Additions
Installing an EV charger? Transitioning from a gas or oil furnace to a heat pump? These high-power devices and additions often require a panel upgrade, so consult with an experienced electrician on whether you’ll need to alter your panel to handle these increased power demands.
9. The Panel Is Inconveniently Located
Some homes have electrical panels in inconvenient locations, such as in bathrooms, near flammable materials, or in spaces that are hard to reach. If your panel is located in an area that could cause safety hazards or is difficult to access in an emergency, consider relocating it when you upgrade.
10. Your Home Has Persistent Electrical Issues
Persistent electrical issues such as flickering lights or frequently tripping circuit breakers are signs that your electrical panel may need to be upgraded or replaced. Your panel may also be overheating or making a buzzing noise in addition to electrical problems.
Don’t Wait Until Problems Arise, Have Your Home Electrical Panel Assessed With CoreTrade Electric
Your home’s electrical system is crucial for your family’s safety and comfort. CoreTrade Electric is here to ensure your Northern Virginia home’s electrical system is safe, up-to-date, and ready to meet your power needs for years to come.
Don’t wait for an electrical emergency to strike. If you’ve noticed any of these signs or are unsure about the state of your electrical panel, contact CoreTrade Electric today. Our experienced professionals can assess your current panel, recommend the best solution for your needs, and perform a safe, efficient upgrade or replacement.
