Three Faulty Electrical Panel Symptoms You Cannot Ignore
Similar to how your heart pumps blood throughout the organs of your body, an electrical panel provides power to your home’s appliances, lighting fixtures, and electronic devices. This blog highlights the three main warning signs for needing an electrical panel upgrade or heavy-up.
Circuit Breakers Often Tripping
Circuit breakers that trip frequently indicate a faulty electrical panel. A circuit breaker trips to protect an electrical circuit from being damaged by excessive electrical current from overload or a short circuit. You can simply reset a circuit breaker by returning its switch to the ON position. However, when circuit breakers trip frequently, there is likely a problem involving the electrical panel.
Determining the age of your circuit breakers is key. A circuit breaker typically has a service life of between 30 to 40 years. Thus, the best practice is replacing an electrical panel when it is 30 years old or more. If the circuit breakers are replaced and frequent tripping continues, it is likely necessary to upgrade your electrical panel.
Dimming Lights
A commonplace symptom for electrical system issues, dimming lights are typically caused by a faulty electrical panel. The basic explanation for lights dimming is that they are being supplied inadequate voltage. First determine if every major appliance requiring its own circuit is in fact connected to a dedicated circuit. This should prevent the electrical panel from overloading a circuit. If the lights of your home continue dimming, the electrical panel itself may be the problem.
Rust or Corrosion
Perhaps the clearest indicators an electrical panel requires replacement is rust or corrosion. When an electrical panel is rusted or corroded, it will no longer be able to function properly and safely. If a certified electrician spots either symptom during a safety inspection, the homeowner should be advised of this hazardous condition. A rusted or corroded electrical panel should be replaced as soon as possible to protect the residents and property from a potentially deadly electrical fire.
Electrical Services You Can Trust
Founded in 1991, Meyer Electrical Services provides home and commercial electrical services in Maryland, Virginia, and D.C., where we are licensed and insured. Based in Bethesda, our team proudly serves all of Montgomery County. Receive a free consultation for custom electrical work today by calling (301) 941-1400.