After 35 or so years your home’s electrical system has probably started to wear out like any other mechanical system. Corrosion and loose connections cause overheating that take a toll on the conductive metal parts and the insulated plastic components holding the Breaker Box together. Given the liability of an Old Fuse Box and safer Arc Fault technologies available today it might be about time to consider an Electrical System Upgrade.
If your Main Breaker Panel is showing symptoms of Dimming or Flickering Lights, Panel is Warm to the Touch, or Breakers are tripping on a regular basis, these are indications of an overloaded Distribution Board that may have faulty parts. You should not ignore these warning signs, call an Electrician Near Greenville SC to evaluate your home’s electrical system; please consider calling today at 864.834.9955.
Most experts believe your Panelboard has a service life of 25 to 40 years depending on the brand and correct installation. Environmental factors such as load demand and exposure to the elements can have an impact on the life expectancy of a Breaker Panel. As with all electrical upgrades, you don’t want to wait for a complete failure before you replace an Old Fuse Box or Breaker Box, avoid Power Outages or potential Fire Hazards by being proactive. Regardless of age if you have a Zinsco or Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) Panel installed in your home, it should be replaced at once. Read OBSOLETE BREAKERS to learn more.
Your home’s Main Breaker Panel is the connecting point for all the branch circuits supplying everything from the Dryer Outlet, wall receptacles, and Lighting. Because of the complexities of Electrical Codes concerning older homes with ungrounded receptacles and if you need GFCI Protection, it is better to leave this job to a professional. If you are determined to make this a do-it-yourself project, please consider contacting your local electrical code inspector for advice on how to proceed.
Since most older homes have a 60-amp or a 100-amp Old Fuse Box, it is a good idea to go ahead and upgrade to a 200-amp Main Breaker Panel since the equipment and labor cost are pretty much the same you never have to address this issue ever again. Since you are upgrading your electrical Distribution Board, it is an excellent time to consider installing Whole House Surge Protection to protect your new investment.
As an Eaton Certified Contractor, I am partial to the Eaton-Cutler Hammer brand. Listed in order are a few brands that are a good consideration if you are upgrading your Breaker Box.
An Electrical Panel Upgrade is an investment in your Family's Safety, Home's Value, and your Peace of Mind. Remember, your electrical system is a mechanical system and requires maintenance just like your HVAC and plumbing systems don't put off needed repairs.
Ian Ramirez is a Licensed Master Electrician with more than 20 years of experience with Residential and Commercial electrical projects. Contact Ian directly at 864.834.9955 or Click Here to Schedule Electrical Service for Greenville & Upstate SC customers. Upstate Electrical Solutions is a member of the Better Business Bureau. Check out our 5-Star reviews on Google, Facebook and Yelp. Our reliable service comes with upfront pricing and a 100% Money Back Guarantee.
