Your home’s electrical panel, often called the “brain” of your electrical system, is responsible for distributing electricity throughout your house. However, an outdated or struggling panel can create safety hazards, inconvenience, and inefficiency. That’s where an electrical panel upgrade comes in. Upgrading to a modern, up-to-code panel can ensure your home is running safely and efficiently while meeting today’s increasing energy demands.
But how do you know when it’s time for an upgrade? Here are the top 7 signs of electrical panel problems to watch for.
Speaking of professional help, meet Ogburn Electric Company, serving the Triad area with decades of experience and expertise. Whether you’re experiencing flickering lights, struggling with a fuse box, or planning a home renovation, we’re here to make your electrical upgrades simple and stress-free. Contact us today for a free consultation!
1. Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips
Does your circuit breaker constantly trip, leaving you to scramble to reset it? While it’s normal for breakers to trip when circuits are overloaded or there’s a short circuit, repeated trips are a red flag. This can often indicate an overworked or outdated electrical panel that cannot handle your home’s current electrical load.
Solution? An electrical panel upgrade can resolve these circuit breaker issues by providing the capacity needed to power your home smoothly.
2. Your Home Still Uses a Fuse Box
If your home has a fuse box, it’s time to consider an upgrade. Fuse boxes are not only outdated but often fail to meet modern safety codes. Compared to circuit breaker panels, fuse boxes are less efficient and come with a heightened fire risk.
Plus, having an outdated fuse box can create hurdles with home insurance companies, as they are seen as a liability. Upgrading from a fuse box to a breaker panel not only improves safety but also increases your home’s value.
3. Flickering or Dimming Lights
Think those flickering or dimming lights are just a minor annoyance? Think again. This flickering lights electrical problem can indicate serious issues such as voltage fluctuations, panel strain, or even bad wiring.
Your electrical panel might be struggling to deliver consistent power because it’s overburdened or outdated. A home electrical system upgrade can eliminate these disruptions and ensure steady, reliable lighting throughout your house.
4. You’re Adding New Appliances or Technology
Installing a hot tub, EV charger, HVAC system, or other high-demand appliances? These devices require substantial power, which may exceed your panel’s current capacity. Similarly, introducing smart home devices or kitchen remodels with modern appliances can tax an antiquated system.
An electrical panel upgrade ensures your home is equipped to handle these upgrades safely and efficiently, supporting everything from bigger appliances to the latest in smart home technology.
5. Burning Smell or Scorch Marks Near Your Panel
A burning smell or scorch marks near your electrical panel is a serious red flag. This could indicate melted wiring, overheating, or other dangerous conditions. Ignoring these signs can put your home at risk of electrical fires.
For your home electrical safety, contact a licensed residential electrician near you immediately if you notice these warning signs. Ogburn Electric’s certified technicians can inspect your setup and advise on whether a new panel is necessary.
6. Your Home Is 25+ Years Old
Older homes, especially those with panels rated at 60–100 amps, may struggle to meet the needs of today’s households, which often require 200-amp panels. If your electrical panel hasn’t been updated in 25 years, you’re likely dealing with an outdated electrical panel.
Modern energy demands include high-wattage appliances, smart home devices, and more, so upgrading your panel not only enhances safety but ensures compliance with today’s building codes.
7. You Plan to Sell or Renovate Your Home
Whether you’re planning a cosmetic renovation or putting your home on the market, an electrical panel replacement is worth considering. Inspectors often flag old panels during home assessments, which can delay sales or construction if not addressed.
Investing in a new panel also boosts your home’s value, making it more attractive to potential buyers and ensuring fewer surprises during the closing process. On average, the electrical panel replacement cost is a small investment compared to the peace of mind and added value it brings.
Why Choose Ogburn Electric Company for Your Electrical Panel Upgrade?
When it’s time to upgrade, Ogburn Electric Company has your back. Here’s why homeowners in Winston-Salem trust us for their electrical needs:
Decades of Local Experience
With years of dedicated service to the Triad area, we’ve earned a reputation for delivering professionalism, integrity, and expert craftsmanship in every job we undertake.
Licensed & Insured Technicians
Our certified electricians adhere to all local codes and safety standards, ensuring your home’s electrical system is in top-notch condition.
Upfront Pricing & Honest Advice
We provide transparent pricing and only recommend upgrades when they’re truly necessary. No upselling, just reliable and honest service.
Customer-First Approach
From the initial inspection to the final installation, our team keeps you informed every step of the way and treats your home with the utmost care.
Trusted by Your Neighbors
Need proof? Check our glowing, 5-star reviews from satisfied homeowners across Winston-Salem and beyond!
Upgrade Your Home’s Electrical Panel Today
Your home’s electrical panel is vital for safety, efficiency, and meeting the energy demands of the modern world. If you’ve noticed issues like frequent circuit breaker trips, flickering lights, or you’re relying on a fuse box, it may be time for an upgrade.
Don’t wait for problems to escalate! Contact Ogburn Electric Company today at 336-924-5166 for a free consultation and expert electrical panel services. Your peace of mind is just one upgrade away!