Do You Need a New Breaker Box or Electrical Panel Box?

Homeowners who want to protect their investment in their homes understand that staying up to date on the critical systems is part of the package. One thing you may worry about is whether you need a new breaker box or an electrical panel box.

Your home’s electrical system is critical to its functionality. Without a working electrical panel, many of the utilities you rely on would fail to function. This could be as obvious as your internet service but also includes your water heater and HVAC system.

Do I Need to Replace My Breaker Box?

If you have an older home, you probably need to replace your breaker box or electrical panel eventually. But age is only one factor to consider. Electrical panels have a lifespan of 40 to 60 years but wear and tear isn’t always the problem.

Your breaker box may still be in great shape after many decades. However, the increasing electrical demand of the average American household may require an upgrade. We depend on connectivity more every year, from Smart Home systems to Wi-Fi based entertainment and communications services.

When Should I Replace My Breaker Box?

There are several ways to determine if it’s time to replace your breaker box. The first consideration is whether or not it still functions safely as intended. The second consideration is whether or not it can meet your demands.

Signs It's Time to Replace Your Electrical Panel

The first consideration is always safely. Some signs that your electrical panel is no longer safe to depend on include:

Blackouts or flickering lights: Your electrical wiring may have degraded over time. Bad electrical wiring can result in fire, causing property damage and injury. It’s a prime indicator that it’s time for a new breaker box.

Scorching on the panel: Another sign of a degraded breaker box is burn marks on the panel or a scorched, burnt smell.

Is your existing panel sufficient to your needs? You may need a new breaker box if you notice:

Repeated breaker trips: If you find yourself constantly resetting the breakers, the panel can’t handle the load. This is inconvenient but can also damage appliances and electronics.

Power strip addiction: If you’re adding on numerous power strips, you don’t have enough outlets in your home. Your panel was likely designed for another era and can only manage the outlets you already have.

Can I replace my electrical panel myself?

Amateur electrical work of this complexity often reduces the value of your home. So, it’s never a good idea to replace your own electrical panel. The voltage involved can be highly dangerous, and there are many critical safety and building codes to follow.