Your electrical panel is like the nerve center for your home. Every appliance and device that you use is dependent on this small, unassuming-looking box. Given its importance to everything from keeping the lights on to making sure you can charge your phone, it’s surprising how little attention the electrical panel gets in many homes. Understanding how often you need inspections, how it works and when to call a professional outside of the regular maintenance schedule helps you keep your household running smoothly.
When Do You Need Electrical Panel Inspections?
How often you need an inspection varies based on a few factors. If your home is less than 25 years old, you probably only need an inspection every three to five years. If your home is older, you might need an annual inspection.
You also need an inspection if you’re doing any major electrical changes to your home. An EV charger or even just a new stove may mean your panel must be inspected to ensure you remain code compliant. Your panel doesn’t have to meet current codes if it met the code when it was installed. However, if it isn’t safe or you’re making a major change, an upgrade might be necessary.
What Is Your Electrical Panel?
You might call your panel a breaker panel or a breaker box. Whatever you call it, it takes electricity as it enters your home and distributes it.
When you open your panel, you’ll see columns of switches. These are circuit breakers. If your panel is very old, you may have fuses instead of switches. Circuit breakers and fuses shut off power if a circuit overloads, which helps prevent fires.
When Do You Need More Frequent Maintenance?
Even if you’ve had professionals take a look at your panel relatively recently, you might need to schedule another visit if you’re having some electrical issues. Your electrical panel may need a check if you’re experiencing frequent circuit tripping. Other signs include flickering lights, a burning smell, or a discolored or damaged panel.
One common problem with electrical panels is that they can’t always keep up with contemporary needs. In earlier decades, there tended to be fewer electrical demands than there are today. If you’re using a lot of extension cords or power strips, this can be one sign that your panel needs a professional assessment. Older panels usually only have 60-amp or 100-amp service. Even if you’re not adding a major new appliance to your home, it may be time to upgrade to 200-amp service.
When all is well with your electrical panel, you won’t have to give it much thought. Regular professional inspections can help ensure that it stays that way, keeping your home safe and your power reliable. When you need electrical panel services in Modesto, CA, contact The Electric Company.
