Your home’s circuit breaker box manages how and where electricity flows in each room. It also ensures dangerous voltage surges don’t damage appliances or wiring, so it’s essential to understand when repairs are needed. Here are several signs to ensure you contact an electrician before problems escalate.

When to Schedule Circuit Breaker Repairs

1. Tripping Breakers

The circuit breakers on your electrical panel cut the power in parts of your home when they detect unstable electrical currents. If this happens repeatedly, especially when using high-draw items like a microwave or hairdryer, the breaker may be damaged. An electrician can see if the wiring needs repairs or may recommend adding a new circuit to your home, as overloading one with appliances will continuously trip the breaker.

2. Burning Smells

Burning smells in and around the circuit breaker mean that electrical wires are overheating. They can’t contain the high voltages flowing through them and will melt. The overload can extend to other wiring, outlets, and appliances in your house, creating a significant fire hazard. 

Turn each switch on the circuit breaker off to cut the power if you smell burning. An electrician can then see why wires are overloaded and expand your system to handle the electrical load.

3. Physical Damage

Whether it’s a dent on the panel, a broken breaker, or a section that’s falling off, all damage should be checked by an electrician. Exposed wires are a shock risk, and they may spark and ignite flammable materials. You may also accidentally jostle connections and disrupt power flow. An electrician will replace relevant parts and may even recommend upgrading the breaker panel if you live in an older home.

Schedule a home electrical inspection with Piedmont Electric Repair Company for reliable solutions and repairs. This High Point, NC, electrician team has served the Piedmont Triad area since 1936 and prioritizes customer service. They tackle electrical repair and installation projects of all sizes and also stock an expansive inventory of supplies, such as LED lights and emergency generators. Book a licensed electrician today by calling (336) 889-0222 and learn more about their services online.