Understanding Your Electrical Panel: Signs It Needs an Upgrade

Written By Wesley Hayward

Your main electrical panel (or breaker box) is the central command center for all electricity flowing through your home. Keeping it functioning properly is vital for safety and efficiency. Hayward Electrical helps homeowners understand the critical signs that their electrical panel might be struggling to keep up with modern demand.

3 Key Reasons for a Panel Upgrade

1. Capacity Issues (Amperage): Older homes typically have 60-amp or 100-amp service. Today's standard requirement for modern living (central AC, multiple computers, charging stations) is 200 amps. If you're constantly tripping breakers, the panel likely lacks the necessary capacity.

2. Safety Concerns: Old panels, especially Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) Stab-Lok panels or Zinsco panels, are known to have safety defects and may fail to trip during a short circuit, posing a fire risk.

3. Home Renovation: If you're remodeling a kitchen, adding a second floor, or installing a high-draw item (like a car charger), a panel upgrade is usually mandatory to meet code and ensure sufficient power.

What to Check

If you notice any of these signs, contact Hayward Electrical for a professional assessment of your panel's health:

  • Fuses blowing regularly (in fuse box homes).

  • Rust or corrosion on the panel box or breakers.

  • A flickering or buzzing sound coming from the panel.

  • Needing to use multiple power strips throughout your home.

Upgrading your electrical panel is one of the most critical home investments you can make for safety, efficiency, and future readiness.

Is your panel struggling? Call Hayward Electrical today for a panel inspection and upgrade consultation.

Wesley Hayward
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