An electrical panel is the central hub for all electricity coming into a home. It regulates power, which is why homeowners should learn how it works and what its limits are. Recognizing common problems will ensure you contact an electrician before issues escalate. The guide below explores this in more depth.

What Does It Do?

The electrical panel, often called the breaker box, is a metal box installed in a utility room or out-of-the-way area in your home. If you can’t locate it yourself, schedule an inspection with an electrician. When you open the panel door, you’ll find two columns or horizontal switches, called breakers. These represent the various wiring circuits in your home and are usually labeled “kitchen,” “upstairs bedroom,” or “garage” on the back of the door. Some older homes will have fuses instead of breakers. Home owners with a fuse panel should contact a qualified electrical contractor to determine if an upgrade to breakers is the best option.

Municipal power travels from the street hookup to your electrical meter and then to the electrical panel. When the electrical load in your home is too high, the electrical panel will trip the circuit to cut power. This measure prevents fires and electrical damage to your appliances. When it happens, all you need to do is flip the corresponding breaker off to reset it, then turn on to restore power. However, if it occurs frequently, that is a cause for concern.

When Does It Need to Be Repaired or Upgraded?

If you notice lights flickering or turning off, it can mean that the breaker is faulty. It’s common in older homes where breakers and the electrical system haven’t had maintenance or been upgraded in a long time. 

The breaker may also trip frequently, especially when you run a high-draw appliance like a space heater or microwave. An electrician can take a closer look to determine if you should either replace breakers or expand your system to avoid overexerting it. Adding new breakers is common when you purchase many new electronics or are retrofitting an older property. 

The electrician will also inspect the panel. If there are scorch marks or burning smells coming from the breaker box, something is wrong with the wires, and it should be replaced before a fire breaks out.

Contact an electrician at ABC Electric Company Inc. if you’re overdue for an inspection. This electrical contractor is proud to serve Lincoln, NE, and the surrounding communities and provides comprehensive repair and installation services. They can add new wiring to your remodel, upgrade lighting, and handle essential electrical services. Visit their website to learn more about their capabilities. Call (402) 435-3514 to speak with a representative.