The electrical panel is the critical hub in your house that divides the incoming electrical voltage from the grid into the individual circuits that power your lights, appliances, outlets, and more. The panel not only handles the division of the current, it also protects the electrical system with circuit breakers. If a circuit has a voltage overload, the breaker will trip and stop the flow of electricity.
Because the electrical panel does such a vital job for your home, you’ll need to be vigilant of when something is wrong with it. That way, you can call for repairs from our pros—we know all about handling service for electrical panels in Hart County, GA. Follow along below as we look at signs it’s time to call us to repair (or even replace) your electrical panel.
Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips
It’s normal for a circuit breaker to trip occasionally, especially if you’ve overloaded a circuit. However, if you notice that your breakers trip frequently and seemingly without cause, it could indicate a deeper problem with your electrical panel. Worn-out or faulty breakers, internal damage, or aging components may be the culprits. Don’t ignore this issue—it’s a clear sign you need professional assistance.
Burning Smell Around the Panel
If you detect a burning odor near your electrical panel, turn off the main power and call for immediate repairs. A burning smell may signal that wires are overheating, which poses a fire hazard. This issue needs immediate attention from licensed electricians to ensure your home’s safety.
Visible Signs of Damage
Physical damage to the panel, such as scorch marks, melted wires, or corrosion, is an unmistakable warning sign of trouble. These damages can affect the panel’s performance and create dangerous conditions. Regular visual inspections can help you spot these issues early before they worsen.
Unusual Sounds from the Panel
A properly functioning electrical panel should operate silently. Buzzing, popping, or crackling noises from the panel are serious warnings of electrical issues, such as arcing. These sounds indicate that the electricity isn’t flowing as it should, which can lead to dangerous outcomes if not repaired promptly.
Panel Feels Warm to the Touch
An electrical panel that feels warm or hot is a red flag. This often occurs when the panel’s circuits are overloaded, or there’s an issue with internal wiring. A hot panel can lead to overheating and potentially ignite a fire, so it’s essential to address this problem without delay.
Flickering or Dimming Lights
Flickering or dimming lights can sometimes indicate problems with the electrical wiring in your home. However, if these issues are widespread, the source might be your electrical panel struggling to distribute power evenly. This is especially common in older panels that can no longer keep up with modern electrical demands.
Outdated Panel
If your home still uses an older fuse box or a panel that hasn’t been upgraded in decades, it may no longer be capable of handling your household’s electrical load. Older panels are not only inefficient but also prone to safety risks. In some cases, a replacement might be a more viable and long-term solution than repairs.
Don’t Wait—Act Fast to Stay Safe
Ignoring electrical panel problems can lead to serious hazards, including power outages and electrical fires. We’re here to ensure your home’s electrical system is safe, reliable, and up-to-date. Whether you need fast repairs or a full panel upgrade, our experts are ready to help.
Contact JN Electrical Temperature Control, Inc. and you’ll “Feel the Difference”!