When Should You Upgrade Your Home’s Electrical Panel?

Your home’s electrical panel manages your energy use and regulates how much energy your system can handle at one time. Trying to exceed that maximum can damage the system, resulting in energy waste.

You might also increase the risks of power outages, electric shocks or surges, and electrical fires as a result. Upgrading your panel will help you use energy safely.

Age Makes a Difference

Just like any other type of equipment in your home, your electrical panel has a limited lifetime. On average, an electrical panel will last between 25 and 40 years. If your panel age is within that range, it’s time to ask an electrician in Colorado Springs for an upgrade. If you don’t know the age of the panel or when it was last updated, an electrical system inspection can tell you more.

Frequent Power Outages Are a Telltale Sign

A 200 amp electrical panel is sufficient for most homes, but you should think about an upgrade if you frequently trip your home’s breakers. Each time you overload electrical lines in your home, the breakers will trip, and you’ll have to reset them. This is a sign that you’re trying to draw more power than the system can safely handle. You might need an electrician to upgrade your panel so it can accommodate 225 amps or more.

Damaged or Rusted Panels Need Attention

It’s well past the time for an electrical panel replacement if you notice that the metal box containing your circuit breakers appears rusted or corroded. Make sure the area doesn’t look damp, either, since a plumbing leak can sometimes cause this situation. You should also contact electricians in Colorado Springs for a replacement if the box appears dented, torn, or otherwise damaged.

New Equipment Requires an Upgrade

Anytime you install new equipment in your home, you should ask your electrician about upgrading your electrical panel. You can avoid more serious signs it’s time for an electrical panel upgrade by talking to a professional in advance. Depending on the power needs of the equipment, your electrician might need to install separate breakers, special outlets, or new wiring dedicated solely to the equipment.

A Hot Panel Requires Immediate Attention

Your electrical panel should never feel warm or hot to the touch. If you do feel heat radiating from the panel, it’s a good idea to turn all the power off. A warm panel needs attention from an experienced and certified electrician right away. In addition to the upgrade, your electrician can identify other wiring issues causing the problem.

Plan an Upgrade for Your Renovation

If you’re planning a home remodeling project, talk to your electrician in advance. They can work with your general contractor to plan for the wiring updates and panel upgrades necessary to meet your changing power needs. They can also install new lighting fixtures and outlets.

Trust an Experienced Electrician With Your Upgrade

Peak Home Performance provides a wide range of maintenance services to help you take better care of your home. We can even help you upgrade your electric panel to meet your household’s needs for energy usage. To request an evaluation of your home’s electrical system, contact us today.