Your home’s electrical panel is the heart of its electrical system, distributing power to every corner of your house. However, the demands on your electrical panel may increase, especially if it is older. We use far more devices and appliances nowadays than older panels were designed for. You can improve your electrical system’s safety, reliability, and functionality with an upgrade.
Blitz Electric Ltd. in Edmonton is a full-service electrical contractor that offers electrical maintenance, repairs, upgrades, and installations. Here, they share signs it’s time to upgrade your electrical panel.
Odd smells and sounds from the panel
Odd smells and sounds can indicate a serious problem with your electrical panel. For example, a burning odour typically means something is overheating and causing parts to scorch and burn. It could be from old wires and loose connections but is a serious fire hazard that needs addressing immediately.
Likewise, the sound of sizzling, cracking or popping coming from the panel can indicate a fire hazard. Those sounds are usually from electrical arcing. Essentially, when there are loose wires, the electricity will try to hop from one connection to another, making that sound and likely causing a spark. Call your electrician right away!
In both these cases, it could mean you need a repair to a circuit, switch, wire, or other part of the panel. Your electrician will advise if a repair is possible or if you require an electrical panel replacement.
You have an old fuse box
If you have a heritage home or an older character home, you might still have a fuse box. If that is the case, though rare these days, it’s definitely time to upgrade. Fuse boxes are outdated, not compliant with electrical codes, and less safe compared to modern circuit breaker panels. They offer limited protection against electrical overloads and pose a higher risk of fire hazards. Upgrading to a circuit breaker panel will enhance the safety of your home and provide better control over your electrical system.
You’re always using extension cords
If you find yourself relying heavily on extension cords or power bars, your current electrical panel is not meeting your needs. An electrical panel upgrade allows you to add more circuits and, thus, more outlets throughout your home. Overuse of an extension cord can cause it to rapidly deteriorate, causing an electric shock risk and fire hazard. When you have enough outlets, you can stop using extension cords and reduce the risk of overloading circuits. Read more extension cord safety tips.
Flickering or dimming lights
Do your lights flicker or dim when certain appliances or devices are in use? This is a sign of voltage fluctuations caused by an overloaded electrical panel. An upgrade will provide a stable power supply and is safer. Furthermore, your lights remain bright and steady even under heavy electrical loads.
Electricians in Edmonton
Upgrading your electrical panel is a crucial investment in the safety, efficiency, and functionality of your home’s electrical system. For professional help and expert advice tailored to your specific needs, contact Blitz Electrical Ltd. This reliable and experienced electrical company cares for their clients and will strive to provide exceptional customer service with every job. You can count on them to provide safe, efficient and effective electrical repairs, and installations.
Contact Blitz Electrical Ltd today!
