5 Warning Signs Your Electrical Panel Needs an Upgrade

You might have missed some of the signs that it’s time for an electrical panel upgrade in Montclair, NJ. If you’re unfamiliar with the common symptoms of a failing panel, you may not act in time to save your home from a hazardous situation. Discover how to identify the right time to make this essential home maintenance update.

1. Higher Energy Demand

Even though your electrical panel might regulate electricity properly, changes to the technology in your home will affect that process. As you increase your energy demand, the panel will have to regulate higher amounts of electricity.

Even if your home has a 200-amp panel, you should ask your electrician to evaluate how your new dishwasher, computer, or air purifier will affect the system.

2. Compliance Issues

If you have an older home, you might be overdue for an electrical panel upgrade in Montclair, NJ. That’s because a panel that’s more than a few years old won't meet modern building code standards. If you’re unsure about the age or compliance of your panel, schedule an electrical inspection.

3. Frequent Tripped Breakers

An obvious sign that you need a panel upgrade is a high frequency of power outages. If your breakers trip every time your HVAC system runs a cycle or you use your laundry machines, you're probably overloading the system. A panel upgrade will solve this problem and restore safe energy usage.

4. Signs of Electrical Fires

It’s possible to have small electrical fires caused by overheating. You might smell a burning odor or notice scorch marks on the walls near outlets. If you suspect this type of problem, turn off the breakers that correspond to the affected circuits and schedule immediate electrical repair services.

5. Lights Flicker or Dim

Your home’s lighting will flicker or dim when there's a loose connection. Alternatively, you might see these lighting issues when the panel is handling too much energy at one time. After inspecting the panel, your electrician can recommend upgrades that increase the system’s capacity.

Schedule Your Professional Electrical Panel Upgrade in Montclair, NJ

When you partner with Anderson Electric, our technicians will provide comprehensive electrical inspections and services. We’ll upgrade your electrical panel to ensure your home remains safe and legally compliant. Contact us to request an estimate today!