Electricity is considered essential whether it is for residential, commercial, or in different places where it is highly needed. Using electricity helps appliances and other electronics to work. Other than this is to ensure that your home, commercial, and other places are illuminated at night. Electrical Service Team guarantees to provide all the electrical services for safety and electrical efficiency.
The electrical system has a wide scope that a homeowner must understand how it works. One of the main components of the electrical system is the electrical panel. This service box connects the main power line to your home and distributes the electrical currents to different circuits of your home.
However, there are different types of electrical panels which are designed for a specific purpose, and it is important to determine the best one needed. It is vital to know what will be the right electrical panel for your home, and if you need Electrical Panel Upgrade Services, you can always count on us to help you.
Determining the kind of electrical panel differs by the number of circuits they accommodate and the amount of amperage it provides. Here are some of the ways to select the kind of electrical panel.
- Find the Current Panel’s Amperage. One of the best ways is to find the current panel’s amperage listed on its main breaker. When replacing the electrical panel, either you can match the amperage capacity of your current model or upgrade if the power needs have already increased.
- Determine the Amperage Capacity. Another way to determine the kind of panel you need is by determining the amperage capacity of your home. The panel should be able to handle 150 or more amps if your home uses 150 amps of electricity.
- Consider the Circuit Breakers. You must consider the types of circuit breakers that are needed in your electrical system. For example, single pole circuit breakers are generally used for outlets and lighting, with 15 to 20 amps ratings. Double pole circuit breakers are normally used for water heaters and appliances.
- Calculate the Total Load for the Circuit. Remember that the circuit breakers operate at 80% of their capacity. For example, if your circuit breaker is rated at 20 amps, it should only use 16 amps. Locate loads of each device, which is usually indicated on the sticker on each appliance.
What Are The Indications That You Need An Electrical Panel Upgrade?
Most people would not think about the electrical panel. Just turning on the lights and using the appliances are the things that people normally do. But the electrical panel plays an important role in your house, and you can’t afford to ignore it if it needs an upgrade.
However, if you are unsure whether your home’s electrical panel needs an upgrade, here are some indications that you can look up to that will let you know that you have to upgrade the electrical panel. To keep your home safe, you need to ensure that the electrical panel can keep up with the demands for electricity.
1. It Is Original To Your Home – The average lifespan of the electrical panel is 25 to 40 years. Even if you don’t notice any signs that the circuit breaker is struggling to power your home, having a professional inspect it may work. They can quickly evaluate the electrical system of your home.
2. Flickering Lights – If the lights flicker and other appliances are active, this could be an obvious connection problem with the panel. If an appliance is running and seems to have a weak output, it may result from overloaded circuits with the panel. It can also potentially be that the panel is outdated and requires to be upgraded to be able to handle the larger current load.
3. Constantly Flip Breakers – The electrical panel trips when an area of your home tries to draw too much power all at once. When this happens, you must flip the affected breaker to allow the power to flow again. This doesn’t automatically signal an issue. But, if you constantly experience this, it is likely time to have the breaker checked.
4. Old or Faulty Wiring – If your electrical panel is up-to-date and the lights are still dim and flicker, the wires may be old. If you are unsure whether the wires are old or faulty, there are other red flags that you can look at such as a burning smell near the electronics.
5. Burning or Melting – As a rule, burning or melting is a bad sign, especially if it comes from the electrical system. If there’s a burning or melting, a fire will soon follow. If you smell any burning from the circuit breaker, don’t put your home and family at risk. Immediately cut the power and call an electrician.
6. Installing New Appliances – Large appliances such as refrigerators, freezers, or air conditioners need a lot of energy to work. Your electrical panel may not have sufficient bandwidth to keep the appliances working, especially if you add more appliances.
7. Extensive Use Of Power Strips and Extension Cords – If you always plugged in extension cords or power steps in your home outlets, consider calling an electrician to inspect the electrical panel. If your house doesn’t have enough outlets to meet your needs, it might be time to install a new one. Ensure that the electrical panel is updated to avoid overloading the system.
Outdated or overwhelmed electrical panels are the main cause of electrical fires. Upgrading the electrical panel is an investment worth making since it helps to keep you and your family safe.
If you are experiencing some of the mentioned signs, you may need an electrical panel upgrade. No need to worry. Contact the Electrician Service Team immediately to take care of the electrical services needed for your home and ensure your and your family’s safety.
