We’ve all been there…questioning whether it is time to upgrade your vehicle to a newer model or replace your washer and dryer or get rid of your favorite hat that is falling apart, etc.
The list goes on and on and the same is true for your Electrical Panel.
How do you know when it is time to replace or upgrade your Electrical Panel? Do you feel like the more research you do, the more confused you get? This company says panels should be replaced every 20-years but your friend needed to replace one after 15-years. Yours, however, is going on 30-years and you aren’t experiencing any issues so should you replace it? I mean newer is always better, right?
How do you know who to listen to and what to believe?
Before we explore signs that your panel may need to be replaced or upgraded, we wanted to walk you through the history of electrical panels (previous blog post) and…
Reasons your Electrical Panel may Fail
An important thing to keep in mind is one size does not fit all. Like anything (your car, appliances, cell phone, etc), many factors contribute to why your electrical panel may fail. Below we will explore five of those reasons.
1. Overloading: Too Much Demand on an Old System
Modern homes and businesses consume significantly more power than they did a few decades ago (see previous blog post for more info on this). If your panel wasn’t designed to handle today’s electrical demands, it could become overloaded.
Overloading occurs when too many devices or high-powered appliances draw more electricity than the panel can handle. This can cause breakers to trip frequently or, worse, lead to overheating and potential fire hazards. If your panel is constantly maxed out, upgrading to a higher amperage is essential for safety and reliability.
2. Location: Environmental Factors Matter
The location of an electrical panel plays a significant role in its longevity. Panels installed in damp, humid or poorly ventilated areas, such as basements, garages or outside walls, are more susceptible to rust, corrosion and moisture damage. Over time, water exposure can lead to short circuits, breaker malfunctions and even complete panel failure. If your panel is in a high risk location, consider relocating or replacing it with an outdoor rated panel, made to withstand environmental challenges.
Be sure to check Part 4 (coming soon) of our Your Electrical Panel Blog series to find out what we do to try and maximize the longevity of panels installed by Spring Garden Electric LLC.
3. Manufacturing Defects: Faulty Panels Can Be Dangerous
As technology and knowledge advanced, it became apparent that some electrical panels were manufactured with inherent design flaws, making them prone to failure.
For instance, panels from brands like Federal Pacific (FPE) and Zinsco have been found to have significant safety issues, including breakers that fail to trip during an overload, increasing the risk of electrical fires. While these panels are no longer manufactured, it is estimated that millions are still in operation across the United States.
If your home or business has one of these outdated panels, replacing it is strongly recommended to ensure your electrical system operates safely. Additionally, if you are looking to purchase a home, make sure to find out what brand panel is installed and have it replaced immediately if it is an FPE or Zinsco.
4. Arc Faults & Electrical Surges: Hidden Dangers
Arc faults occur when loose or damaged wires create unintended electrical discharges, leading to excessive heat and fire hazards.
Electrical surges, whether from lightning strikes or power grid fluctuations, can also damage panel components over time.
Modern electrical panels are designed with arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) and surge protection to help mitigate these risks.
If your panel lacks these safety features, an upgrade can enhance both safety and efficiency.
5. Improper Installation: A Recipe for Failure
Not all electrical work is done correctly. Improper panel installation, such as using the wrong gauge wiring, overcrowding circuits or failing to secure connections can lead to overheating, tripped breakers and unreliable power distribution.
Poorly installed panels are more prone to failure and can pose significant fire hazards.
If you suspect that your panel was installed incorrectly or isn’t up to code, having a trusted electrician inspect and potentially replace it is a smart move.
Protect Your Home & Business with a Safe Electrical Panel
Your electrical panel is a critical component of your property’s safety. You don’t want to wait until a serious issue arises. Contact a trusted electrician to evaluate your system and determine if a replacement is necessary. Replacing or upgrading your panel not only enhances safety but also improves energy efficiency and accommodates modern electrical needs.
Need a Panel Replacement or Upgrade? At Spring Garden Electric LLC, we specialize in safe, professional replacements and upgrades. Contact us today to discuss ensuring your home or business is powered safely and efficiently!
And stay tune for Part 3 of our series where we will explore signs your panel may be failing.
