You never really think to replace your electrical panel in your home here in Austin — that is until it goes out on you. Then, you’re left in the dark (literally) and scrambling to find a qualified electrician to come and fix the problem. But what if there was a way to avoid that situation altogether? What if you could replace your electrical panel before it fails and save yourself the headache (and expense)? The answer may shock you.

Okay, all jokes aside, most experts agree that electrical panels should be replaced every 10-15 years. However, there are a few signs that indicate your electrical panel may need to be replaced sooner. 

First, check for rust or corrosion on the exterior of the panel. This will be the most obvious sign that you need to consider replacing your breaker box. Any signs of corrosion should be taken as an indication that your breaker box is damaged and should be replaced immediately. 

Second, take a look at the breaker box and make sure all the breakers are in good working order. Test if they are hot to the touch, but be careful not to burn yourself. If it is hot to touch, that should be a major red flag that you need to bring in a professional. They will be able to deduce what is causing the breaker to heat up, and help remedy the situation.

Finally, if you have circuit breakers that frequently trip, that’s a common sign that your electrical panel needs to be replaced. If you feel inclined, troubleshoot your home for any stray electrical device that may be causing the breaker to trip. If you can’t find any obvious source of electrical issues, then it’s time to – you guessed it! – call a professional! 

If you’re thinking about replacing your electrical panel in your home in Austin yourself, think again! Electrical work is extremely dangerous and should only be performed by a licensed professional. Attempting to replace an electrical panel yourself could result in serious injury or even death. So play it safe and leave it to the pros on this one, trust us. Master and journeyman electricians like the ones here at Alpha Team Electric, have spent years training to provide the highest quality service possible for their clients, and are readily available and capable of assessing your breaker box and determining if there needs to be a full replacement.

If any of these signs sound familiar to your electrical issues, or it is clear that your electrical panel needs to be replaced, connect with an expert right away. Putting off replacing your electrical panel can be a very risky gamble, and not worth the risk. Don’t hesitate to connect with our specialists and at least let an expert master electrician properly inspect your equipment and give you honest feedback. We would be happy to come check out your panel, make a full assessment, and work with you to identify potential remedies. 

Your home’s electrical system may not be the first thing you think about upgrading in our homes, but it deserves a place on the list. Whether you’re looking to increase your home’s value or just want to be proactive about safety, ensuring that your electrical system is up-to-date is a great place to start. Not only will it give you peace of mind, but it will also save you money in the long run.

If you have any further questions or would like a professional to take a look at your system, connect with us here, and our team of certified electricians will be happy to consult with you about your home’s specific needs.