The breakers in your electrical panel at your Davidson, NC, home or business automatically turn off or trip when you have an overloaded circuit. If the breakers trip repeatedly, or you notice other issues with your electrical system, it’s time to consider upgrading the electrical panel. Here are four signs you need a new electrical panel:
Overloaded Circuits
When you open the door of the electrical panel, you’ll see that each breaker has a number on it that refers to the safe amp rating capacity for a particular circuit. If you have too many appliances or other electrical items plugged into a single circuit that exceeds the amperage, the breaker will switch to the off position. When this happens repeatedly, it’s time to think about replacing the panel with additional circuits to handle the load more evenly.
Flickering and Dimming Lights
You might notice your lights dimming or table lamps flickering when you turn on a specific appliance you have plugged into the same outlet. Dimming and flickering indicate that appliances need more power than the circuit or your whole panel can handle. Your professional electrician might recommend extra circuits or a complete panel upgrade to rectify the problem.
Overheating or Burning Odor
If you feel warmth on the electrical panel or any outlet cover, it indicates that something is wrong with the electrical system. Likewise, if you smell wires burning or see discoloration at outlets, you need immediate repairs. This is necessary to prevent a potential fire.
Rusted Panel
If you see rust or corrosion on the panel door or inside the box, this is an indication there’s a humidity or water intrusion issue. Excessive moisture causes corrosion of the metal components, weakening them and leading to breaker deterioration and failures. It’s best to replace the electrical panel and address humidity levels and leaks.
If you’re experiencing any of these four issues with your electrical system, consider upgrading the electrical panel. Reach out to Bradham Comfort Services for reliable and professional electrical services and ask about a generator installation so you’re never without power.
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