When it comes to the electrical wiring in your home, it can be difficult to know what needs repairing or replacing each year. If things seem to be working just fine, it’s all too easy to ignore crucial safety upgrades your home needs without knowing you did anything wrong. But if you’re not a licensed electrician, how are you meant to know when it’s time for a replacement - especially when it comes to things like your electrical panels? We’ve compiled a list of common signs that your electrical panels need replacing so you don’t have to worry about outdated equipment that isn’t safe. Keep reading on to find out more on panel replacement.

What are electrical panels?

An electrical panel, otherwise known as a breaker panel, is a metal box built into a wall of your home. They contain the main circuit breaker that powers your entire home as well as others that only power specific sections. These are usually identified so you know what you’re working with. Electric panels typically display the amperage of your home and serve as a connection point between the external wires outside and the internal wires of your home’s electric system. 

How do I know if mine needs replacing?

Unless you’re a certified electrician, it can be tricky knowing when’s the right time to replace your electrical panel. Common indicators include

It’s outdated

A general rule of thumb is that electric panels should be replaced every 30 to 40 years. So if you find yourself living in an old home with an ever older-looking breaker panel, it may be time to get an electrician in to take a look. 

If your home doesn’t have an electric panel but instead has a fuse box, it’s time for an upgrade. Fuse boxes are very common in old homes and usually don’t meet the safety standards of today. 

It’s damaged

If you’ve noticed scorch marks, smoke or other signs of physical damage to your electric panel, this could indicate that you’re dealing with melted wires. This is a big safety concern and should be addressed immediately. 

It has a burning smell

Now’s the time to use common sense. If you’ve noticed that your electrical panel smells like it’s burning, it’s time for an urgent replacement. Given how dangerous this is, it’s important to turn off the electric panel and unplug all electronics in your home. After you’ve done this, turn off the main power supply and get an electrician to your home as soon as possible. 

Get in touch

If your home has a damaged or outdated electrical panel, get in touch with our team today for urgent assistance. As a homeowner, it’s your job to keep your home safe, and by upgrading your breaker panel, you’re getting rid of potential hazards that could occur in the long run. Give us a call today to find out how we can help!