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You depend on your electrical panel to deliver power throughout your house. Without it, you’d be in the dark. Because the breaker panel is the nerve center of your home electrical system, you do have to be careful with it. Electrical panel problems can do more than just leave your home without power. They can also spark a fire. To make sure your electrical panel is not posing safety hazards for you and your family, look for the following eight signs of a fire hazard. If you spot one, have a Chatham electrician look at your setup right away.
1. Exposed Wires
Typically, the wires in your electrical panel are covered by protective insulation. Over time, this insulation may break down and leave the metal wires exposed. This could be a problem in older units because of the wear and tear that occurs over time. It can also be the result of an electrical panel that frequently overheats. The elevated temperature could melt the insulation. No matter the cause, an electrical panel with exposed or damaged wires requires professional attention. Left unaddressed, the exposed wires could result in electrical arcing, which is when electricity moves along a path that it shouldn’t. The current jumps from one connection to another, and you will be at risk of sparks or dangerously elevated temperatures if that happens.
2. Scorch Marks
Your electrical panel may show visible signs that a fire could be imminent. If you see scorch or burn marks on your panel, you will know that there is a problem. It’s a clear indication that the temperature in the system has been rising much too high or there has been electrical arcing. The incident that left the mark may not have developed into a full-blown fire, but you might not be so lucky next time.
3. Burning Smell
If you notice the odor of something electrical burning, don’t ignore it. That’s a clear symptom of an electrical problem that is likely to grow worse. The scent may be emanating from the panel itself, or you might notice the smell elsewhere in the house. Either way, the issue might be traced back to the panel, and it certainly requires professional attention. Smoke is another scent that should motivate you to act quickly since smoke and fire go hand-in-hand. Of course, if you see smoke near the electrical panel, shut off the power supply to your home and call an electrician right away.
4. Loud Noises
It’s normal for your electrical panel to make a bit of noise as it operates. You may notice a quiet humming or buzzing sound. Louder noises, however, could be a sign of an internal problem. When something goes wrong within the system, the panel may give off snapping or popping noises. It may also crackle or wheeze. Sounds that are out of the ordinary or louder than normal merit attention since they can point to an electrical failure within the system. You may find out that the wires are burning up or arcing is taking place.
5. Warm Temperature
Sometimes, you’ll need to use your hands to figure out what’s going on. Your electrical panel shouldn’t be hot to the touch. If you notice an elevated temperature when you set your hands on the unit, there may be trouble brewing. Shut off the power straight away and contact an electrician for assistance.
6. Frequent Tripping of the Circuit Breakers
Your electrical panel should be able to handle the power needs of you and your family. If your house is demanding more electricity than your panel can provide, you may experience tripped breakers on a regular basis. This is a safety feature, so it’s not a terrible thing to trip a circuit now and then. However, if this is occurring with predictable frequency, it’s a sign that you’re asking for more than your panel can give you. Eventually, the heavy burden on the panel could lead to electrical problems or a fire. It’s best to take action with a panel upgrade before you get to that point. Not only will your home be safer, but you’ll also be more satisfied with how the upgrade will be able to handle all your electrical demands.
When your breakers trip, you should be able to reset them with a simple flip of the switch, even if this happens often. If it takes multiple tries to bring the power back to that circuit, it’s a clue that something may be seriously wrong with the system. Even if your breakers aren’t tripping frequently, this problem should motivate you to schedule a panel inspection.
7. Low Power Supply
In addition to tripped circuits, there are other signs that your electrical panel can’t handle your electricity demands. Perhaps your lights occasionally dim, especially when someone turns on an appliance in a nearby room. Also, you may notice that your appliances don’t seem to be running at full strength. For example, your air conditioner’s output might be weaker than it once was. Trying to ask for too much from your electrical panel for too long could increase the chances of a fire. It may be time for a panel replacement.
8. Older or Recalled Model
Electrical panels do not last forever. Sometimes, normal wear and tear on the system is all that it takes to make your panel a fire hazard. Over time, wires and switches can wear out, reducing the safety of the system. Plus, older electrical panels might develop rust. As the rust spreads, it can damage the wires and the other components. If you spot rust, it’s a good indication that your electrical panel’s best days might be behind it. Fuses are another sign of an outdated panel. Newer panels use circuit breakers instead of fuses. For the sake of safety, it’s important to upgrade to more modern technology.
While any older electrical panel could be an issue, some are particularly problematic. Some panels from several decades ago are known for the potential to start house fires. They were built using technology that is no longer considered safe today. For example, these boxes may use aluminum clips that can wear out after just a few decades. Also, their connections may not be as secure as those in today’s models. Zinsco-brand electrical panels are particularly infamous for these problems. If you spot the words “Zinsco” or “Zinsco/Sylvania” anywhere on your unit, please make calling for repairs a top priority. Federal Pacific is another make of panel that is known for being a fire hazard.
Pipe Works Services performs both indoor and outdoor electrical work for property owners in the Chatham area. You can count on our experienced electrical services to maintain safety in your home and provide beneficial electrical upgrades. Our comprehensive property-care business also specializes in heating, cooling and plumbing. Additionally, we’re ready to help when you want to improve the quality of your water supply or the air inside your home. Our services are available for both residential and commercial customers. Since 2000, we’ve been providing dependable care throughout central and northern New Jersey.
Call today to schedule your appointment with Pipe Works Services for electrical panel replacement or other valuable services.
