The electrical panel is an integral part of your home's comfort and safety. In fact, it contains all the circuit breakers that control your electrical system. The panel distributes electricity to the various electrical circuits throughout your home, supplying energy to the lighting and outlets in each room.
In this quick and easy guide on electrical panel upgrades in Atlanta, GA, we will provide you with a better understanding of your electrical panel, including how it works; signs it needs attention; when it's time to be replaced; and why an upgrade can benefit your home.
If you are a homeowner, especially residing in an older home or experiencing electrical issues currently, then this guide will help you determine if it's time to call a licensed electrician.
Understanding Your Electrical Panel
An electrical panel, or commonly referred to as the breaker box or central electrical hub, houses all the circuit breakers for your home, allowing you to control the distribution of electricity throughout your home. For instance, if you want to shut off power in one room, you can simply switch the corresponding circuit breaker off for that room.
The electrical panel is connected to the primary electrical line running from the utility pole next to your home. This line is operated and managed by your local electric company. Electricity comes through the power line into the electrical panel, which then distributes the electricity to the different circuits of your home.
Most modern homes use circuit breaker electrical panels. They are the most convenient and easiest to operate. Some new homes also have smart electrical panels that integrate with other automated smart devices in the home to monitor energy consumption and manage the electrical panel remotely.
However, if you have an older home, it might have a fuse box system installed. The box uses screw-in fuses to distribute electricity throughout the home. The only problem is that the fuses can burn out quickly from too much overload. They are far less reliable than modern circuit breakers.
Newer electrical panels last anywhere from 20 to 40 years if they are properly maintained and used moderately. Older panels will last 10 to 20 years if you're lucky.
15 Warning Signs Your Electrical Panel Needs Attention
Your electrical panel works silently behind the scenes to power your home safely and efficiently. However, like any critical system, it can develop problems over time that compromise both its performance and your family's safety.
Being able to identify early warning signs of issues can help prevent dangerous situations, costly repairs, and unexpected powerful failures. If you notice one or more of the following 15 signs, it can indicate that your panel needs attention, and, in certain cases, immediately.
Frequent circuit breaker trips — When your panel can't properly manage power demands, breakers will trip regularly. This indicates the system is unable to safely handle your home's electrical load.
Flickering or dimming lights — Inconsistent lighting often signals voltage fluctuations in your electrical system, typically caused by an aging panel or inadequate capacity.
Burning odors near the panel — Unusual smells around your electrical panel warrant immediate attention, as they may indicate overheating components or damaged wiring.
Visible corrosion or rust — Moisture damage to your panel can compromise its integrity and create serious safety hazards. This commonly occurs in humid environments like basements or garages.
Warmth or heat from the panel box — A properly functioning panel should remain cool to touch. Excess heat indicates potential overloading or internal component failure.
Buzzing or crackling sounds — These noises suggest loose connections or arcing electricity, both of which require immediate professional inspection.
Scorch marks on the panel or wall — Burn marks indicate previous electrical failures and pose a significant fire risk. This requires immediate professional attention.
Breakers that won't stay reset — When breakers trip immediately after resetting, it points to either a persistent short circuit or deteriorating panel components.
Two-pronged outlets throughout the home — Older wiring systems without grounding protection are often incompatible with modern electrical needs and safety standards.
Need to unplug one appliance to use another — This clear sign of insufficient capacity means your panel cannot safely distribute power to all devices simultaneously.
Appliances not operating at full power — When devices underperform, your electrical system may be struggling to deliver consistent voltage.
Outdated fuse box instead of circuit breakers — Fuse panels lack the safety features and capacity of modern circuit breakers and are generally unsuitable for contemporary power needs.
Home built before 1990 with original panel — Older electrical systems were designed for significantly lower power demands than today's home require.
Inadequate amperage for modern needs (60-amp or less) — Modern homes typically require 100-200 amp service. Anything less will struggle to support current electrical demands.
Recent home renovation or addition of major appliances - Adding newer appliances, lighting systems, or smart technologies with higher electrical demands to your home might require you to upgrade your electrical panel to sustain these demands.
If you notice any of these warning signs in your home, it is crucial to address them as soon as possible by calling for the help of a licensed and trained Atlanta electrician like Estes Services.
A licensed electrician can properly diagnose your electrical panel's condition, identify safety concerns, and rectify the problem. Depending on your situation, you may need a repair, component replacement, or a complete panel upgrade.
Electrical Panel Upgrade Options
A full panel replacement ensures that modern electronics and major appliances are efficient, safe, and compatible to use in your home. It could take one to two days for an electrician to complete the replacement, and the cost can vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. Keep in mind that Special Financing can help you manage this investment with affordable monthly payments.
The Benefits of Professional Electrical Panel Services
A licensed and trained Atlanta electrician should only perform electrical panel repairs, upgrades, and replacements. Professional electrical panel services provide numerous advantages that extend far beyond basic functionality, impacting everything from safety to property value.
Enhanced home safety and fire prevention - Reduces the risk of installation mistakes that could result in electrical fires and malfunctions.
Improved energy efficiency and potential utility savings - New electrical panels distribute power more efficiently to reduce excessive power consumption.
Accommodation for modern electronics and appliances - New electrical panels have a higher capacity to accommodate the power demands of modern electronics and appliances to ensure they remain fully functional.
Increased home value and marketability - Home buyers are willing to pay more for homes with newer electrical panels because that is what modern homeowners need today.
Insurance benefits and code compliance - Some homeowners insurance companies will require you to hire a professional to upgrade or replace your home's outdated electrical panel before they will provide you with coverage.
Elimination of electrical annoyances - A professional electrician can eliminate any problem you have with tripping breakers or flickering lights by upgrading or repairing your panel as needed.
Peace of mind for homeowners - A professional is fully qualified to provide electrical panel services. Homeowners will have peace of mind knowing the service job is being done right with less risk of failure or malfunction.
Investing in professional electrical panel services protects your home, family, and valuable electronics while improving your quality of life. Licensed electricians bring the expertise, tools, and knowledge of current codes that DIY approaches simply cannot match. When it comes to something as critical as your electrical panel, professional service isn't just a luxury—it's an essential investment in your home's safety and functionality.
Schedule Electrical Panel Consultation Today
Well, there you have it. Our quick and easy guide on electrical panel upgrades for homeowners in Atlanta, GA, is complete. If you need electrical services, call Estes Services or schedule service online today.
You can gain peace of mind for the comfort and safety of your home with our licensed Atlanta electricians.
