Homeowners can face numerous electrical challenges when they refuse to upgrade their panels at the right time. Most don’t even know why or when they should upgrade.

There are different reasons for considering an electrical upgrade:

1. You still use a fuse box

Fuses and circuit breakers perform the same function but it is worth noting that fuses are outdated, and unlike circuit breakers, they don’t trip when they’re overloaded, melt, blow, or short-circuit. You will rarely see a fuse in newly built homes, which is an indication that you need to upgrade your fuse box electrical panel as soon as possible. Fuse boxes require frequent replacement.

2. You still use an old circuit breaker

In case you have replaced the old fuse box, It is very possible that the circuit breaker you used to replace it is also old and needs replacement. If your house was built before 1980, you are probably using 150 amp service which was commonly used in 20th-century homes. Today, the standard amp service is 200. If you still use the old circuit breaker, it is time to upgrade your electrical panel.

3. If there are signs of wear and tear on your electrical panel:

If you notice dimming lights, blown fuse, dark-colored wall plates burning from wall switches, shock from switches, or unusually high electricity bills, then it’s time to consider an upgrade. All of these signs are dangerous to everyone living in your house and also, you tend to pay more.

4. If you are planning to purchase an electrical device that consumes more power:

Devices like a freezer, air conditioning system, electric dryer, hot tub, and solar panels in Tampa Bay consume more power, and if your electrical panel is not up to date, it may damage those appliances.