Old House Wiring: Rewiring a house is not a small task – it’s a big, complex project, but sometimes it is necessary. If your home has aluminum wiring from the 1960s or 70s, non-metallic wiring from the 1940s or 50s, or knob-and-tube wiring from before the 1930s, it is probably time to consider an electrical panel upgrade. These older systems were not designed to handle modern electrical demands and could pose safety risks for you and your family.
Missing GFCIs: GFCIs (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters) feature “TEST” and “RESET” buttons to protect against electrical shocks in moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Without these affordable and easy-to-install devices, you could be putting yourself at risk for a shocking surprise.
Insufficient Electrical Capacity: Modern homes require 100 to 200 amps to power appliances and electronics simultaneously. If your electrical panel can’t support devices such as refrigerators, air conditioners, TVs, and computers, an upgrade is essential to ensure reliable, safe power distribution.
Knowing It’s Time to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel
You may have never thought about replacing or upgrading your electrical panel before. Electrical panels should not be used for any longer than 25 years. Some electrical panels that are younger than that can become defective. If you regularly take trips to reset tripped breakers, that’s the first sign that you need to consider upgrading your electrical panel. Some of the other signs that you might need electrical panel upgrades include:
- Your electrical panel makes a crackling sound
- There is corrosion or rust on your circuit breakers
- Your electrical panel is warm
- Your appliances aren’t running at full power
- You don’t have GFCI outlets in your bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room
- You use extension cords and power strips all the time
- You have 60-amp breakers
- You have 100-amp breakers, but they still trip frequently
- You have a fuse block panel or a split-bus panel without a main breaker
Call your local Mr. Electric of Chattanooga to schedule a service today!