Introduction
The electrical panel is the heart of any home’s electrical system, supplying power to every outlet and protecting appliances from short circuits. But it doesn’t last forever. And certain situations demand that it be replaced, lest you experience blinking lights and fire hazards. If you’re wondering when you’d need to commission an electrical panel replacement service for your home, this blog highlights things like the age of your panel and recent renovations as clear signs that it’s time for a new electric panel installation.
From Frequent Fixes To Recent Renovations: Signs It’s Time For A Panel Replacement
We know you understand the significance of your electrical panel. It’s been there for years, quietly running the show. But when is it time to let it retire? While it may seem obvious that you should get a new one when your current electrical panel stops working, there are other signs that you may not be aware of that demand replacement.
Take a look below to learn when a responsible homeowner should change their panel.
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The Panel’s Age
Electrical panels usually have a lifespan of about forty years, given proper maintenance and quality repairs. But if your panel is above the 25-year mark and nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s time for an upgrade.
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Frequent Repairs
Do you often need to contact a residential electrician to come take a look at your electrical panel? Or are repairs just a once in a blue moon type of affair? If it’s the former, then it’s better to replace it once and for all for efficient function and affordability.
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New Appliances
Did you upgrade some of your appliances? If you recently installed a new HVAC system, washer, or hot tub, chances are that the old panel won’t be able to support them. In this case, it’s better to get an upgrade.
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EV Charger Installation
If you recently got a charging station set up at your home to power your vehicle, your electrical panel probably won’t be able to support it. So, you should definitely get an electric panel replacement along with that new EV charger.
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Visible Damage
Another sign that you should replace your old electrical panel is when you can clearly see that it’s worn out. If there’s corrosion, burnt patches, rust, or burning smells whenever you pass by it, it’s been through enough and needs to be retired.
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Flickering Lights
Did you ever experience your lights dimming or flickering whenever you plug in your coffee maker? That’s a sign that your panel is too tired. You should contact a residential electrician and have that panel replaced soon.
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Repeated Trips
Does your electrical panel trip every time you turn on the heat? Or is it the refrigerator that triggers it? Either way, if you experience frequent breaker trips, your panel is no longer able to support your household and should be replaced soon.
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Recent Renovations
Renovation work is another time to have that panel replaced. Whether it’s an older unit that’s reaching the end of its natural lifespan or the recent renovation has led to additional electrical load on your system, it’s better to replace your old electrical panel whenever you upgrade the rest of your home.
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A Fuse Box
Do you live in an old house? With a classic fuse box? It may look retro or nostalgic, but trust us when we say that that fuse box is nothing but trouble. Not only is it weak, but it’s also the cause of so many fires in older residences. Change it to an electrical panel ASAP!
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Insurance Requirements
Some insurance companies may be reluctant to work with you if you have an older panel, as it may be considered too risky. If you’ve experienced rejection when it comes to insurance policies, you should probably replace your electrical panel.
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Strange Noises
Electrical panels are the silent heroes of your homes. The keyword is silent. If you hear strange buzzing or humming, you have loose connections or serious internal issues. Upgrade that noisy panel to a silent version for safety and peace of mind.
Conclusion
To conclude, homeowners should keep an eye on the state of their electrical panels to keep their properties and families safe. If your electric panel is close to 40 years old, breaks down frequently, or if you’ve recently added a new appliance or EV charger, you should contact a residential electrical contractor to replace it immediately. We hope this blog was helpful. For more information, please drop us a line!
FAQs
What is the cost of an electric panel replacement?
Depending on the panel type and project complexity, the average cost can be anywhere from $1,200 to $4,500.
How long does an electrical panel replacement take?
Depending on the scope of the work, the actual replacement usually takes between 4-8 hours.
Do I need a permit to replace my electric panel?
Yes. You need to get the project approved by local authorities before replacing your panel.
