Old electrical panels may be putting your home in danger. These types of panels were made during a different time with different power demands.
If your panel is decades old, your home may be just one power surge away from a serious safety hazard. Here, a local provider of electrical panel installation in Mililani, HI, discusses how you can benefit from having modern panels installed.
Outdated Systems Pose Hidden Risks
Many older homes in Mililani, HI, still operate with outdated fuse boxes, with some homeowners arguing that upgrades aren’t worth the cost.
Unfortunately, continued use of dated panels leads to a host of problems. These include frequent power outages, flickering lights, and blown fuses. What’s more, these are also signs your system is struggling.
You also risk overheating, damaged wiring, and even electrical fires. As an electrical panel repair technician puts it, “If your home still has a fuse box, it’s not just inefficient, it’s unsafe.”
Modern circuit breakers trip automatically when overloaded. This instant response gives them the edge over their older counterparts, protecting your home and family in the process. Fuses need to be replaced when they blow, but breakers reset easily and safely.
Another interesting perk of having breakers is that they reduce human error. Installing the wrong fuse size can be dangerous, but circuit breakers are designed to handle specific loads. This precision cuts the risk of overheating or shorts.
What Are The Safety Features Of Control Panels?
The panels of today utilize advanced safety mechanisms that work together to prevent disasters.
Here’s a breakdown of the common features:
Each of these features plays a role in safeguarding your home’s electrical system from faults, fires, and equipment failure.
Your home sends warning signals when the panel can’t keep up. If you notice any of the following, it’s time to act:
These symptoms suggest the system is stressed and may need immediate attention.
Upgrading an electrical panel is complex and dangerous, with or without the right training. Licensed professionals ensure the new panel is correctly rated for your home’s amperage and installed to meet code. They also secure all necessary permits and schedule required inspections.
“Don’t risk DIY with something this critical,” an installation technician advises. “A poor installation can be just as dangerous as an old panel.”
Most older homes have 100-amp panels, which may not support today’s power needs. A modern home, especially one with EV chargers or large HVAC systems, typically requires 200 amps.
Follow these steps to estimate if your service is adequate:
Take note: Upgrading to 200 amps provides flexibility for additions like solar or battery backups.
Installing an electrical panel requires a time commitment, with the typical panel upgrade taking at least one full day to complete. Here’s a general timeline:
It’s best to plan for a full-day power outage and arrange for necessary accommodations.
Proper permits are a must for panel upgrades. A qualified contractor will perform this process, in addition to making sure that your installation will comply with state and local codes. With expert help, you can be sure that your upgrade is legal, safe, and up to code.
If you’re considering a whole-home generator, a modern panel is essential. New panels can integrate transfer switches that safely manage generator power during outages. This prevents backfeeding, which poses risks to utility workers and your property.
Avoiding outages is just one perk of upgrading your panel. From smart home tech to EV charging, a robust electrical system is key. Don’t wait for a disaster to strike. Contact electrical panel experts today to discuss your panel upgrade and take a powerful step toward securing your home and family.
