3 Signs You May Need Electrical Panel Repair
An electrical panel is one of the most vital components of home electrical systems. This discreetly placed panel of circuit breakers is meant to control the flow and distribution of electricity into different parts of the home. It has a mechanism for safely shutting off power to sections of the house when there is an overcurrent, protecting devices and appliances, and minimizing the risk of a house fire. But for the panel to do its job correctly, it must be in good working condition. If it’s malfunctioning, signs indicate the electrical panel may need repair.
Dim or Flickering Lights
A light bulb replacement often follows dim or flickering lights in the house for a good reason. A dim or flickering light bulb might mean it has reached the end of its lifespan and needs to be replaced. There are some instances, however, when even a new bulb still doesn’t seem to solve the problem. If this is the case, it can indicate a problem with the electrical panel.
Lights that flicker could indicate that an electrical panel can no longer meet the supply demands of a particular circuit. This could be especially true if new appliances were plugged into that circuit before the lights began to dim or flicker. In this case, the electrical panel needs to be upgraded to increase its capacity and meet the demands of adding more electrical appliances to the house.
Burning Smell
A burning smell, especially one that smells like melted plastic, isn’t just a sign that something is wrong with the electrical panel. It’s also a big red flag that should tell homeowners to call trusted electricians immediately. The smell of something burning indicates that something is overheating or experiencing an electrical malfunction that could lead to something as serious as an electrical fire.
In this situation, homeowners should turn off important electrical appliances, cut the power, and call an electrician right away. If the burning smell is particularly strong or smoke is visible, homeowners should also evacuate the house and everyone in it to be safe.
The Panel is Old
Electrical panels can last a long time, anywhere from 25 to 40 years on average. If the electrical system has been well-maintained and everything has been installed correctly and up to safety standards, homeowners may not need to worry about their electrical panels for a while. However, electricians should routinely perform inspections to ensure there is no damage.
But there are instances when electrical panel replacement may be necessary. A panel will need replacing when they get too damaged or experience too much wear and tear from age. In the case of old houses, especially those built more than 50 years ago, a thorough assessment of the electrical panel is necessary, and, in many cases, they must be upgraded to meet current safety standards.
About ICT Electric
ICT Electric has over 30 years of experience on their staff serving Rhinelander, WI, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, an on-time guarantee, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for electrical panel repair or replacement in Rhinelander, WI.
