The older your home is, the more likely it is that your electrical panel needs to be upgraded. Although it is designed to last for a long time, your electrical panel does eventually require a replacement. This is especially true when you consider the technology boom that has happened in recent years. Older systems simply cannot keep up with demand.
You can keep reading to learn more about some of the signs that can indicate you need electrical panel upgrades in Crystal Lake, IL. Then give our team a call when you’re ready to schedule your in-home assessment. We can take a look at your current electrical panel and talk to you about your upgrade options.
Lack of Outlets
Older homes that have outdated electrical panels typically have fewer overall outlets. If you are struggling to find enough plugs for the different appliances and electronics in your home, that’s a red flag of an outdated electrical system. More modern homes have more outlets in each room so you can plug devices in conveniently, no matter how you have furniture set up.
Flickering Lights
You should also considered it a red flag if lights around your home flicker frequently. This may happen when you plug in new electronics, use more power because you’re turning different appliances on, or it could just happen randomly without any rhyme or reason.
Flickering lights may not seem like a huge inconvenience, especially if the flickering is minimal. But it is still a red flag that your electrical panel is struggling to provide enough power for consistent lighting. It’s a good idea to get your electrical system checked out just to be on the safe side.
Tripping Breakers
The same thing goes for tripping breakers. If you plug in too many items in the single area, it could trip a breaker. It’s easy to think that this is perfectly normal and all you have to do is reset the breaker. However, your electrical system should be able to handle multiple things being plugged in in a single area of your home at the same time.
If you complete a normal task like using your microwave or hair blow dryer only to have a breaker tripped and the power to go off to that room, something is wrong. These simple tasks should not trip a breaker. Instead, breakers are designed to handle much larger power surges that pose risks to your home.
Heat or Corrosion
If you hold your hand up to the electrical panel itself, it should not feel particularly warm. It should feel cool or room temperature. If your electrical panel feels warm or hot to the touch, that is very alarming. It means that your electrical system could be overheating and posing fire risks for your home.
You also want to pay attention to corrosion around your electrical panel because it points to water damage. We all know that water and electricity don’t mix. Corrosion is not reversible once it begins, and all of the impacted components need to be completely replaced.
Contact Althoff Home Services today to schedule an appointment with our professionals. Chicago’s Choice Since 1961. Hand It Off to Althoff!