As modern homes become more reliant on electricity from high-efficiency appliances to electric vehicles and smart home systems the demand on your electrical system increases. At the heart of it all is your electrical panel, quietly distributing power where it’s needed most. But just like your roof or HVAC system, it can wear out or become outdated over time.
If your panel isn’t equipped to handle today’s energy loads, it could pose serious safety risks or lead to costly electrical problems. That’s where we come in. At Lights On Electric, we’ve been helping homeowners across Pennsylvania from Philadelphia to Doylestown upgrade their panels for a safer, more reliable home.
Wondering if your panel is due for a checkup or replacement? Here are five key signs that it’s time to upgrade.
1. Frequent Breaker Trips
If your circuit breakers trip more often than they should, it’s usually not a fluke, it’s a warning. Breakers are designed to shut off power when a circuit becomes overloaded. If this happens regularly, it may mean your panel is struggling to keep up with your home’s energy demand.
Today’s homes rely on high-powered appliances, electric vehicles, and advanced technology. An older panel might not be built to handle this kind of load. Repeated trips aren’t just frustrating they can also be a fire hazard if ignored for too long.
2. Your Panel Is Over 25 Years Old
Electrical panels generally last 25 to 40 years, depending on usage and environmental conditions. But age isn’t just a number, older panels can wear down internally even if they seem to be working fine on the surface.
If your home still has an outdated panel with fuses, or if the panel looks rusted or discolored, it’s time to call a licensed electrician. Modern panels are safer, more efficient, and better suited for current electrical code requirements.
3. Not Enough Power to Support Your Needs
Do your lights flicker when the microwave is running? Do you need to unplug one device to use another? These are signs your panel isn’t supplying enough power to meet your household’s needs.
As more homeowners in Pennsylvania transition to electric heat pumps, EV chargers, and induction cooktops, we’re seeing increased demand for 150–200 amp service well beyond the 100 amps many older homes were built with. Upgrading your panel ensures you’re not left in the dark (literally) as your power usage grows.
4. Visible Damage or Wear
Any visible signs of damage like burn marks, melted wires, or corrosion should be taken seriously. These signs indicate that your electrical panel may be overheating or has been exposed to moisture, which can lead to system failure or even electrical fires.
If your panel is hot to the touch, smells like burning plastic, or makes strange buzzing or crackling sounds, turn off the power and contact Lights On Electric immediately for a safety inspection.
5. Unusual Noises or Smells
Electrical panels should operate quietly and without noticeable odor. Strange sounds like sizzling, buzzing, or humming and smells like burnt plastic are major red flags. These symptoms often mean there’s faulty wiring, an overloaded circuit, or failing components inside the panel.
Even if everything seems to be working fine for now, these warning signs can precede serious electrical failures. Don’t ignore them, have your panel inspected before things go from bad to worse.
Local Electric Panel Specialists
We’re not just another electrical company we’re your local panel specialists, proudly serving communities across Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia, Abington, Upper Darby, Radnor, Doylestown, and Bristol. Our licensed electricians are highly trained in diagnosing, repairing, and upgrading residential electrical panels. Whether you’re noticing warning signs or planning to modernize your home with new technology, we’ll make sure your electrical system is safe, efficient, and ready for the future.
Ready for a Safer, Smarter Panel?
Delaying an electrical panel upgrade can put your home at risk, outdated panels may cause fire hazards, power outages, rising energy bills, and code violations. If you’ve noticed any warning signs, don’t wait. A panel upgrade can boost your home’s safety, efficiency, and performance. Contact Lights On Electric today to schedule your consultation. We’ll evaluate your panel, discuss your current and future needs, and provide expert recommendations to protect your home and your family.