Your electrical panel is the heart of your electrical system. These panels connect your external wires from outside your home to your home’s internal wires. This connection powers your lights, appliances, and more. If your electrical panel is malfunctioning or inefficient, your electrical system may fail, lights may dim, appliances may be ineffective, and you may be at risk for physical injury. Fortunately, there are ways to know whether your Crofton electrical panel needs to be replaced. If you notice these signs, call your Professional Electric, Inc. electrician for assistance.
Frequent Breaker Tripping
One of the first signs it is time to replace your Crofton electrical panel is its frequent tripping. If you frequently reset your breaker, it’s time to take action. This issue often arises after adding new appliances that strain the existing electrical capacity and can potentially damage your circuit boards and other circuit components.
Unexpectedly High Utility Bills
Consistently high utility bills may also signal the need for a new electrical panel. Increases in energy costs can result from weakened or rusted wiring, leading to an inefficient distribution of electricity.
Dimming Lights
Are your lights dimming? Lights should only dim during power outages or if you have loose bulbs. If that is not the problem, your lights may dim when you use power-hungry appliances like microwaves and air conditioners. This dimming can point to loose connections or electrical panel issues.
A Burning Odor
Don’t ignore the signs of burning odors coming from your panel. If you smell burning from your electrical panel, address this issue promptly to avoid overheating and fire hazards.
Unusual Panel Sounds
Crackling, sizzling, and popping sounds from your electrical panel indicate loose wires and potential sparks. If you ignore these signs, you put yourself at risk for fire and electrical hazards. These sparks may even lead to significant fires. In this case, replacing your Crofton electrical panel is often best rather than risking your home and safety.
Rust and Corrosion
If you spot corrosion or rust on wires, cables, circuit breakers, doors, screws, or other components, your electrical panel needs immediate attention. Your Professional Electric, Inc. electrician can recommend the best replacement panel, as a rusted panel is likely outdated.
Aging Homes
Call your Crofton electrician to inspect your panel if you reside in an older home. Electrical panels do not last indefinitely, which makes it crucial for homes built before 1995 to undergo assessment and, most likely, an electrical panel replacement.
If you spot these warning signs, it is likely time to replace your electrical panel. Failing to do so may mean an inefficient electrical system, higher utility bills, and a risk of fire or electrical shocks.
Call Professional Electric, Inc. for an Electrical Panel Replacement
Our family-owned and operated business has earned the trust of the Crofton community for decades. Our team of friendly and expert electricians is licensed, bonded, and insured. From electric panel upgrades to lighting installations, and all other electrical services and repairs in between, you can count on Professional Electric to get it done safely and skillfully. Our dedicated electricians are standing by 24/7 for your emergency electrical situations. We proudly serve customers in Annapolis, Severna Park, Crofton, Gambrills, Odenton, Bowie, Stevensville, Mitchellville, Millersville, Cape St Claire, the surrounding Southern Maryland area, and beyond. To find out more information on our wide range of electrical services, or to get a free estimate from our master electricians, contact us at our website or call 410‐451‐8085, 301‐390‐7620, or 443‐871‐1492. For more ways to stay connected, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.