Five Common Causes of Electrical Panel Replacement
Your electrical panel is a critical component in your Rochester home’s electrical system. It acts as the central hub of your main power line and distributes electricity to the various outlets throughout your home. To ensure that your system is operating safely, it’s important that your panel is working properly.
If your current electrical panel is malfunctioning or is having trouble keeping up, it may be time for an upgrade. In this article, the expert electricians at Lon Lockwood Electric discuss the five most common reasons homeowners request an electrical panel replacement and why these issues require professional attention.
1. Age of the Electrical Panel
The typical lifespan of an electrical panel ranges from 25 to 40 years. While an older panel may still be in good condition, it may not meet the current safety codes and regulations. A certified electrician can perform an inspection to assess whether your unit is safe to use. They can also determine if it requires replacement.
2. Increased Electrical Demand
Dated electrical panels weren’t made to support the extensive electrical needs of our modern world. Due to additional appliances and new technology, your modern home requires significant power to run. Plus, if you’ve built a home addition, your panel may not be the right size to run the additional square footage.
3. Low Amperage
Many older homes were constructed with electric panels that only have 60-amp wiring. Unfortunately, this is too low for modern appliances, which require a panel with 150 to 200 amps. Low amperage can lead to a variety of issues, including tripped breakers, flickering lights, overheating, and more.
4. Electrical Panel Is Hot to the Touch
Your electrical panel should never be hot to the touch. If you sense any heat coming from the system, it’s a serious issue that a professional should inspect immediately. Hot electrical panels could put you at risk of an electrical fire. Common causes of a hot electrical panel include overheating, faulty wiring, or internal damage.
5. Not Enough Outlets
Many homeowners in older homes struggle to find an available outlet. This is because our need for them has significantly increased with the invention of new technology and devices. Instead of using unreliable power strips, consider an upgraded panel that allows for the installation of more outlets. Additional outlets prevent an overloaded panel, improve safety, and increase convenience.
Contact Lon Lockwood for Electrical Panel Replacement
If you’re ready for an electrical panel upgrade in your home, call Lon Lockwood today. Our team of licensed and insured electricians will ensure you have reliable access to the power you need.
As a family-owned and -operated business, we pride ourselves on providing the highest quality services with unmatched attention to detail. Plus, with our A+ BBB rating and outstanding reviews, it’s no wonder we’re Monroe County’s top choice for electrical services!
Upgrade your home’s electrical panel now. Contact Lon Lockwood today to schedule service with our team of experts.