Is It Time to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel?
An electrical panel is an important device in a home. It distributes power to different areas of the house using a system of switches, circuit breakers, and wiring. It also has fuses that protect appliances, electrical wiring, and residents from circuit damage due to overloading or shorting out. If you’ve recently added to your home, purchased new appliances, or increased your energy use, it could be time to upgrade your electrical panel.
The electrical service panel, also called a breaker box or circuit breaker panel, is located in an exterior wall near your electric meter. It regulates how much electricity is used at a property by limiting the amount of electricity allowed to each circuit. It contains a main circuit breaker, which is marked with a number that indicates its amperage capacity. It can also contain multiple sub-panels, which are marked with numbers indicating their amperage capacity and typically serve a specific area of the house.
It’s important to know the size of your electrical panel and how many circuit breakers you need. This will help you determine if the panel is big enough to handle your current needs. If you’re not sure what the size of your electrical panel is, it’s best to contact a professional who can provide you with information about your home’s electric system.
There are three primary types of electrical panels. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. For instance, the standard square D panel is efficient primarily for one- and two-bedroom homes. It has room for 12 circuit breakers. It’s also expandable, meaning you can add more circuit breakers in the future.
Choosing the right panel for your needs is important because it will ensure that you can use your home’s entire electrical system without any problems. It’s also important to keep in mind that a damaged electrical panel can cause fires, so it’s crucial to have yours checked regularly.
A good way to tell if your panel is outdated is if it feels warm to the touch. This means that some of its components are wearing out and can no longer carry the load of your home’s electricity. It’s also a sign that the panel is losing its efficiency, which can lead to a fire or other dangerous situations.
An updated electrical panel can increase the value of your home, and it can also make your home safer for you and your family. If your panel isn’t up to date, it can become a fire hazard, so it’s essential to replace it as soon as possible. A professional can perform a thorough inspection of your panel and recommend any upgrades that are necessary. In addition, a professionally-installed electrical panel can save you money in the long run by reducing energy consumption and preventing power surges.