Your electric panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system. It manages and distributes electricity to every outlet, appliance, and light fixture in your house. Like any essential system, it can wear down over time or become outdated as your electrical needs grow. So, when issues arise, you may wonder: Should I repair or replace my electric panel? Here’s what you need to consider in order to make an informed decision.
The Role of Your Electrical Panel
First, let’s understand what the panel does. It takes power from your utility company and channels it safely throughout your home through individual circuits. Each circuit is protected by a breaker that trips when there’s an overload or short circuit. This helps prevent damage to your devices and minimizes the risk of electrical fires.
But over the years, panels can deteriorate due to age, wear and tear, or exposure to damage like moisture. An outdated or faulty panel doesn’t just cause flickering lights or tripped breakers it can also lead to higher energy bills and safety hazards.
Signs Your Panel Needs Attention
Common signs that your panel is struggling include:
- Frequent tripped breakers
- Flickering or dimming lights
- A burning smell near the panel
- Crackling sounds
- Warmth or discoloration around the breakers
- Use of fuses instead of breakers
If you experience any of these, don’t ignore them; these are red flags that your panel may be overloaded or failing.
When Repairs Might Be Enough
In some cases, a repair is okay. For example, if a single breaker is faulty or loose wiring is identified, a licensed electrician can typically address the issue quickly and affordably. Minor repairs like replacing a breaker or tightening connections can restore performance without needing a full replacement.
However, it’s important to understand that repairs may only be a short-term solution, especially for older panels or those showing multiple signs of failure.
When Replacement Is the Smarter Choice
Here are situations where electric panel service and replacement is usually the better long-term decision:
- Your panel is over 25-30 years old. Older panels weren’t built to handle today’s energy demands. If yours is aging, replacement is often safer and more cost-effective in the long run.
- You’re upgrading appliances or adding circuits. New HVAC systems, electric car chargers, or a kitchen remodel may require more amps than your current panel can supply.
- You still have a fuse box or outdated brand. Panels from brands like Zinsco or Federal Pacific are known for fire hazards and should be replaced immediately.
- You plan to sell your home. A modern panel can improve your home’s value and avoid complications during inspections.
Safety First
Attempting to repair or replace an electric panel yourself is dangerous and often illegal without proper licensing. This job should always be handled by a certified electrician to ensure compliance with local codes and safety standards.
At Lights On Electric, our licensed electricians offer honest assessments and expert guidance. Whether your panel needs a simple fix or a complete upgrade, we’ll help you choose the safest and most cost-effective path forward.
Get Professional Advice
If you’re unsure whether to repair or replace your electric panel, the best first step is to schedule a professional inspection. Repairs can solve some issues, but if your panel is outdated, unreliable, or unable to support your lifestyle, replacement is a wise investment.
Ready to take the next step? Contact Lights On Electric today to schedule your inspection. We’ll make sure the lights stay on and recommend the safest, most cost-effective solution.