The electrical panel in your house distributes power to each room. But, they can start to exhibit wear and tear indications even though they are generally dependable and safe. So, check out the top warning signals that an electrician should be called if strobing lights or unusual odors leave you wondering if it’s time for a residential electrical panel upgrade in Baltimore, MD.
Why Would You Need an Electrical Panel?
Consider your electrical panel to be a storage facility for electricity. The warehouse delivers the proper amount of electricity when your living room or kitchen “orders” it. But occasionally, excessive electricity is received. In this case, shipments are momentarily stopped in the warehouse, and this safeguards your house from significant electrical risks, such as fire.
Daily electricity needs might cause electrical panels to start to fail. And frequently, a dysfunctional panel will emit warning signals.
Because the panel is connected to the complete electrical system, numerous typical electrical difficulties are associated with a malfunctioning electrical panel. And if the panel fails, the harm will undoubtedly extend throughout the building.
So, the following section highlights some of the aspects of why you may consider upgrading your home’s electrical panel in the imminent future.
Its Age Old
Electrical panels in Baltimore have a 25-40-year lifespan on average. So, do yours fall within this range of age?
Even if there are no overt indications that your distribution board is having trouble powering your house, it would be worthwhile to call a licensed electrician. As such, they can rapidly assess the electrical system in your home.
You Keep Flipping Breakers
When a portion of your house tries to use excessive power at once, your panel board trips, and you must turn the breaker in question to restore power when this occurs. As such, this may not necessarily indicate a problem. However, if you feel you are frequently tripping breakers, it’s probably time to check your breaker.
Insufficient Outlets
Do you frequently use a power socket to compensate for the absence of plug outlets inside your home in Maryland? This significant increase in the current circuit might be too much for your breaker panel to handle.
An electrician may add more outlets if your board can support the extra circuits, and the best course of action is to replace it if it cannot.
Reeks of Burning Stuff
A burning smell in your house is usually unsettling, so take immediate action if your electrical panel appears to be the source of the scent. A severe house fire may develop quickly due to a malfunctioning circuit breaker.
If the odor is faint and then goes away, a professional electrician in Baltimore might be able to solve the issue. However, if the scent is strong and you are concerned that a fire has started, leave your house immediately and dial 911.
Lighting Flickers or Dims After Turning on a Device
Do the overhanging kitchen lights in your house drag when you operate the microwave or run the dishwasher? This indicates that high power is being pulled from one circuit. So, although you might be capable of adding more circuits, a complete replacement might be the best choice. As such, a qualified electrician in Baltimore can advise you on the best course of action.
These are all good arguments for a residential electrical panel upgrade in Baltimore, MD, or getting your electric circuit panel replaced or maintained. Meanwhile, it’s crucial to get one that complies with current industry standards and withstands the amount of power needed for your household.
