Signs Your Home in London, ON Needs an Electrical Panel Upgrade

Homeowners in London, Ontario, understand the importance of maintaining their homes, and this includes the electrical system that powers our everyday activities. However, it's easy to overlook electrical panels, tucked away in basements or utility rooms, yet they play a crucial role in ensuring that our homes run smoothly and safely.

One key aspect of maintaining an efficient and safe electric system is to ensure your electrical panel stays up-to-date. This article will provide valuable insights into the signs that indicate that your home in London, ON, might need an electrical panel upgrade.

Inadequate Power Supply

Are your lights flickering or dimming when you switch on a heavy appliance? It could be a sign that your electrical panel is out of date and unable to supply the necessary power to run everything efficiently. Modern homes have a greater demand for electricity as contemporary appliances require more power to operate. If you find your current panel is unable to meet the power needs, it’s time for an upgrade.

Frequent Circuit Breaker Tripping

Circuit breakers are designed to trip as a safety measure when the electrical load exceeds the capacity of the panel. Occasional tripping can be normal, particularly if you're using multiple heavy appliances simultaneously. However, if your breakers trip frequently, it's a clear sign that your panel is struggling to handle your home's electrical demand. It's high time to consider an electrical panel upgrade.

Old or Outdated Panel

Most electrical panels have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years. If your home's electrical panel is aging or was installed a few decades ago, it's likely not designed to handle the electrical load of modern appliances. It can cause inefficiency and pose a potential safety risk. Consult with a professional to assess the condition of your panel and consider a necessary upgrade.

Signs of Electrical Fires

Detecting a burnt smell from your electrical panel or noticing charring or scorch marks around your circuit breakers are ominous signs of electrical fires. They indicate that circuits have been overheating, sparking, and causing small fires. It's a serious hazard that calls for immediate attention and an electrical panel upgrade.

Using a Fuse-Based System

If your home is still using a fuse-based system, it's definitely time to consider an upgrade. While fuses were standard in homes built before the 1960s, circuit breakers have since become the norm. This is because circuit breakers are simply more efficient, safer, and convenient as they can be reset after they’ve tripped, unlike fuses that need to be replaced.

Final Thoughts

A reliable, up-to-date electrical panel is crucial for ensuring the smooth functioning of your electrical system and the safety of your home. If you recognize any of the signs mentioned above, don’t hesitate to consider an upgrade.

At Lloyd's, we have built a reputation for providing trusted electrical services to London, ON, and surrounding areas for over six decades. Our team of experienced electricians can examine your current electrical panel situation, provide honest advice and execute an upgrade, ensuring your home's electric system is up to code and ready to meet your needs.

Remember, an electrical panel upgrade not only increases the efficiency of your power supply but also adds value to your home. It's an investment that pays off in the long run by ensuring the safety of your loved ones and maintaining the integrity of your electrical devices.

Need an electrical panel upgrade in London, ON? Contact us at Lloyd's today for a consultation and let our team of professionals ensure the safety and efficiency of your home's electrical system. It's time to step into the future with confidence and peace of mind.