Why You Should Replace Your Old Electrical Panel

Your electrical panel is the brain of your electrical system, providing power and safety for all your electrical equipment, devices and family. Just like a human, a panel can get old, worn out, outdated causing it to underperform and eventually give up the ghost. This can result in house fires or even death. I recommend replacing any panel pre 2000 and recommend having a Licensed Electrician inspect any panel that is pre 2025. Here are several reasons why replacing your homes outdated electrical panel might be one of the best decisions for your home and family.

1. SAFETY

   - I have been to many house fires where the old breakers failed to trip and resulted in a home fire . Old breakers wear out internally over time and I usually reccomend replacing breakers after 20 years. Also, depending on the age of your panel you could have an old system where your grounds and neutrals are not seperated. This can not only be an electrical hazard for your appliances, but it could also result in a fire caused by lightening strikes or any other type of surge.

2. Providing Increased Power Demand

   - Older panels might not have enough capacity to support your current electrical needs or future electrical needs. This is something you should consider when replacing your old panel with a new electrical panel. A licensed electrician will be able to help guide you on the best options for your new panel replacement. Helping you to provide enough power for appliances, ev chargers, and air conditioning units.

3. Increased Energy Efficiency

   - Replacement of your old electrical panel can help with energy distribution, reducing power fluctations and resistance. This can help lead to power savings on your electrical bill.

4. Meeting Current National Electrical Code

   - The National Electrical Code has evolved to provide safety. House fires across the nation have cut in half since implenting new AFCI/GFCI breakers. Old panels are not compliant with current National Electrical Code and generally do not have AFCI GFCI Breakers that help to prevent electrical fires and electrocution.

5. Sign You May Need Panel Upgrade

   - Flickering of Lights

   - Hot to the touch breakers

   - Your breakers trip frequently

   If you need help finding the right panel for your home, please feel to contact Harper Electrical Contractors at 678-615-4560.