Electrical Panels

1. You Have a Fuse-Based Electrical Panel

If your house is built before the 1980s, it may have a fuse-based electrical panel. Fuses are outdated and not as reliable as circuit breakers. Fuse electrical panels were used when houses did not have a significant amount of electricity consumption. Unlike fuse breakers no need to replace after it tripped. Breakers be easily reset by the owner. Breaker panels are compatible with modern equipment such as GFCI or AFCI breakers. A fuse panel is not safe and it is recommended to have an electrician to check or replace the fuse box. With adding powerful electrical devices you also need to upgrade your electrical panel.

2. Evidence of Electrical Burns

Wires inside your electrical panel can reach the point where they could ignite because of overload or poor connection. If you notice a smell from your panel or notice any discolored marks near the circuit breakers or fuses, there is a chance of a potential problem.

3. Main Circuit Breakers Trip Frequently

A circuit breaker trip helps to protect wires from overloading or short. It may also happen when your home electricity consumption exceeds the capacity of your electrical panel. And If you are having this problem often, then you need to consider upgrading the electrical panel.

4. Damaged Wiring

As wiring ages and starts to deteriorate then you might notice some flickering of lights. Sometimes even experience shocks while touching an appliance or notice a burning smell near electrical outlets or appliances.  If you observe these issues, there is a problem with your wiring, and you should immediately call an electrician. Damaged and overloaded circuits are a fire hazard. For this reason, insurance companies charge higher premiums for homes with fuse based panels. Once electrical panel change is complete you can submit an ESA certificate to your insurance company and apply for a reduced rate.