Electrical panel upgrades are essential to the performance and safety of your home or business. If it’s time to upgrade your electrical panel, Mr. Electric of The Black Hills is here to help. We provide customers with the best electrical panel upgrade service in Rapid City, Box Elder, and Black Hawk, SD.
Signs It’s Time for an Electrical Panel Upgrade
If you suspect it’s time to upgrade your electrical panel, it’s likely due to consistent circuit overloads. It often begins with flickering lights or the need to shut off one device before powering another. As the panel worsens, the risk of overheating panels, melted wiring, electrical fires, and electrocution becomes more apparent. When you’re dealing with a potential electrical panel upgrade demand, there are several signs to keep an eye out for. This is especially vital for electrical panels over 25 years old. Signs our customers often encounter include:
Strange Sounds
Crackling or unusual sounds are abnormal for an electrical panel and must be promptly addressed. These sounds typically indicate it’s time to upgrade an electrical panel.
Physical Abnormalities
If your electrical panel is corroded, rusted, or warm to the touch, it’s time for an electrical panel upgrade. These symptoms indicate a larger problem and must be addressed to mitigate hazardous outcomes.
Power Supply Problems
If you must turn off or unplug one device to use another, or if powering large appliances leads to tripped circuit breakers, it’s time for an electrical panel upgrade. Additionally, if you can use an appliance that does not offer a sufficient power supply, it’s likely related to an electrical panel upgrade need.
Insufficient Outlets and Voltage
If you do not have GFCI outlets near water-prone areas, or if your property is equipped with a 60 or 100-amp electrical service, it’s time to inquire about electrical panel upgrade cost estimates. Furthermore, you need an electrical panel upgrade if your property has a fuse block or split-bus panel with no main circuit breaker.
Faulty Electrical Panels
Many properties over 25 are equipped with faulty or non-compliant electrical panels. These panels are prone to hazards and must be immediately addressed and replaced to prevent danger to your home or business. These panels include:
Federal Pacific Electric (FPE)
FPE electrical panels have been deemed hazardous by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. These panels feature a safety defect, heightening the risk of electrocution and electrical fires.
Pushmatic
Pushmatic electrical panels feature faulty circuit breakers that become difficult to reset. Additionally, they do not come equipped with a main power breaker.
Zinsco
Zinsco electrical panels have a known defect allowing power flow despite the circuit breakers shutting off. As such, they pose a significant safety risk. Furthermore, they have been proven to cause melted circuit breakers, elevating the risk of electrical fires.
Fuse Boxes
Fuse boxes are the oldest type of electrical panel. They only offer 30-60 amps of electrical service, making them insufficient for modern-day use. Fuse boxes are no longer manufactured as they are highly dangerous, promoting a greater risk of electric shock and electrical fires.
Our Special Offers
Just mention the coupon below when scheduling your appointment, and we will check your home’s electrical system for signs of deterioration. It’s one more way we demonstrate our commitment to our clients’ safety and happiness.
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