Tucked away in the basement or furnace room or utility room is the nerve center of your home. It is your electrical panel. All the appliances, electronics, lights, etc. that run on electricity are dependent on this panel to keep functioning. So too are your AC unit and furnace (yes, your furnace even if it is powered by natural gas). These panels can last for decades, perhaps as long as 40 years, but not forever. So here are some signs you need a new one.
The first few signs are age-related even though presently the control panel is not causing problems.
1. Your panel is old. Older panels frequently cannot handle the demand for power resulting from new electronics, appliances, etc. If your panel is 25 years old or older, you may want to consider a new one before you experience other problems, such as those shown below.
2. Your panel has been recalled or is out of date. The following electric panels have been recalled or are considered out of date.
a. Challenger panels made by Challenger Electrical Equipment Corp, or Eaton/Cutler Hammer.
b. Federal Pacific Electric (PBE) Stab-Lok panels
c. Pushmatic panels
d. Zinsco panels (aka GTE Sylvania-Zinsco panels)
These panels are fire hazards and should be replaced. Further, your insurance company can cancel your policy if they are not replaced.
3. Your panel still uses fuses. Many older panels, especially those in homes built before 1960, still use fuses. Not only are these more likely to cause problems, but they may also present a fire hazard.
4. Your panel is undersized. Most modern homes with central air conditioning need a 200-amp panel. If your home does not have a 200-amp panel, you should consider upgrading even if your existing panel has not had any problems. Your demand for electricity will only go up,
5. Not enough space for new breakers. If your demand for electricity is increasing (and whose isn’t?), one option is to add additional breakers. If you cannot do so, you should consider a new panel.
6. Anticipating increased demand. If you are anticipating increased demand due to a major project or purchase, you should consider investing in a new control panel to meet that demand. Possible reasons include:
a. Home renovation, remodel or addition
b. A new central air conditioning system
c. A second refrigerator or freezer
d. An EV charging station
The following are indicators you may need a new control panel based upon problems you might be having.
7. Circuit breakers keep tripping, If you find that circuit breakers are tripping more than usual, especially when using multiple appliances, it may mean your breaker cannot meet your demand for electricity. That is especially common if you have an old panel that was installed before you purchased energy-gobbling appliances and electronics.
8. Lights flickering or dimming. If your lights are flickering when appliances are in use, that is another sign your panel cannot handle the demand.
9. Power surges. An overused electrical system can lead to power surges and voltage fluctuations. These can damage appliances, electronics, etc. A newer panel can stabilize the flow of electricity.
10. Too many extension cords and power strips. If you keep adding extension cords and/or power strips that is a sign you do not have enough outlets, and the panel doesn’t have the ability to generate enough power.
11. Burning or melting breakers and wires. If you notice burning or melting breakers and wires those are signs your panel is overheating.
12. Burning smell. Even if you do not notice burning or melting breakers or wires, if a burning odor is emanating from your control panel that is a sign of overheating and is a fire hazard.
13. Warm or hot feel. Another potential fire hazard is if the control panel feels warm or hot.
14. Noises. Buzzing, popping, sizzling and other sounds coming from the control panel are another indication there is a problem.
15. Physical damage. If you see rust, corrosion or burn marks on the panel or breakers, that is another sign your panel may need to be replaced.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing to See if You Need a New Electrical Panel
The licensed and insured electricians at Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric can help you determine whether you need a new electrical control panel, and then help you select and install the best one for your home. Our customers have relied on us since 1928 (that’s 97 years!) for quality products, knowledgeable technicians, and superior service, including 24/7/365 emergency service. That is why we’ve made a name for ourselves as the most trusted plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical company in Chicago’s North Shore and Northwest suburbs. Contact Ravinia Plumbing today to schedule an appointment.
