As technology evolves, the demands on a home’s electrical system grow. Whether it’s new appliances, a home renovation, or simply keeping up with modern power needs, many homes require more energy than their original electrical panels. A 200 amp electrical panel upgrade offers the capacity necessary to meet those needs and improve the safety and efficiency of your home. But how do you know when it’s time to make the switch? Here, we’ll walk through the key signs that show that upgrading your electrical panel might be necessary for your home.
If you’re considering upgrading your electrical panel in Benson, read on for the most critical indicators that it’s time for an upgrade!
Flickering Lights
One of the most common signs of an overloaded or outdated electrical panel is flickering lights. If you’ve noticed your lights dimming or flashing when you use certain appliances, this could indicate that your panel isn’t supplying enough power. Flickering lights can happen when your home’s electrical system is stretched beyond capacity, mainly if the wiring or panel is older. While occasional flickering can sometimes be traced to a faulty bulb, persistent issues may signal a more serious problem.
When multiple lights flicker at the same time, especially when high-demand appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, or microwaves are used, it’s a strong indicator that your electrical panel may not be up to the task. Upgrading your electrical panel in Benson to a 200-amp system can provide the consistent and reliable power your home needs, solving this issue and preventing future problems.
Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips
Have you found yourself constantly resetting circuit breakers? If your breakers trip regularly, especially when running multiple appliances, it’s a clear sign that your electrical system is overwhelmed. Circuit breakers are designed to trip as a safety mechanism when the system is overloaded. However, frequent trips indicate that your panel struggles to handle the electrical load.
Older panels, particularly those with 60 amp or 100 amp capacity, are not built to manage the demands of today’s electrical appliances and devices. Everything from HVAC systems to modern kitchen appliances requires more power than ever. An upgrade to a 200 amp electrical panel can prevent those frequent interruptions and give you peace of mind knowing your home is running safely and efficiently.
An Older Electrical System
If your home is 30 or older and still has its original electrical panel, it’s likely time for an upgrade. Many older homes were built with sufficient electrical systems for the time, but they’re no match for modern technology. Today, the average household consumes significantly more electricity due to computers, smart devices, entertainment systems, and high-efficiency appliances.
You Hear Hissing or Buzzing Noises
Your electrical system should operate quietly. If you hear hissing, buzzing, or other unusual noises coming from your circuit breaker box or outlets, it could indicate a severe problem. Electrical panels or wiring that produce noise may indicate faulty connections, loose wires, or a failing panel. These issues can lead to overheating, electrical fires, or other safety hazards.
Adding New Appliances or Expanding Your Home
If you’re considering adding new high-powered appliances or expanding your home with an addition, you may also need to upgrade your electrical panel. Modern appliances like electric dryers, HVAC systems, and electric vehicle chargers require more power than many older panels can supply. Before installing new equipment or undergoing renovation, evaluating whether your existing electrical panel can support the additional load is essential.
Unexplained Power Outages or Burn Marks Around Outlets
If you’re experiencing frequent, unexplained power outages or notice burn marks around your outlets, taking action immediately is crucial. These are often signs of a severe electrical problem that could lead to a fire or other significant damage. These issues usually stem from an overloaded or malfunctioning electrical panel.
Why Upgrade to a 200 Amp Electrical Panel?
Upgrading to a 200 amp panel provides many benefits, including increased capacity, efficiency, and safety. It allows your home to support modern appliances, prevents the risk of overloads, and makes future upgrades more accessible and affordable.
Final Thoughts!
If you’ve noticed any of the above signs, it might be time to consider upgrading your electrical panel. Whether you’re dealing with frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, or simply having an older system, upgrading to a 200-amp panel can improve your home’s safety, functionality, and value.
At Plugged In Electric, we specialized in electrical panel upgrades in Benson and surrounding areas. Our experienced electricians can assess your current system and provide the best solution to meet your needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help with your electrical upgrade and ensure your home is powered safely and efficiently.
