Your electrical panel is where power comes into your home. The panel distributes electricity safely around your house. Your panel is also home to the breakers that trip if something in your system is potentially hazardous. If you want to enjoy a safe home, you need to be on the lookout for problems with your electrical panel. Here are some common issues you may notice.

Rust and Corrosion

Rust and corrosion can affect any metal in your home. That includes your electrical panel, If you see signs of rust on your electrical panel, you need to have it inspected. It’s possible that the circuits could be damaged as well. Rust can also mean that your electrical panel is nearing the end of its service life. An electrician can tell you whether you need a repair or a replacement.

Overloaded Circuits

Do you find yourself having to deal with a tripped breaker often? That’s a sign you’re facing another common electrical panel problem: overloaded circuits. Your electrical panel has breakers so that you don’t risk a house fire because you plugged in one too many appliances. While this is an important safety feature, it can be a pain if it happens often. Have a qualified electrician check your panel to ensure it isn’t a sign of a bigger problem.

Flickering Lights

A tripped breaker is an obvious sign that a circuit was overloaded. Did you know that flickering lights are another sign of an overload? Not only is this an annoyance, but it can actually damage your appliances! These small surges in power wear down your appliances even if it doesn’t seem obvious at first glance. Get flickering lights checked so that you can avoid paying for an expensive replacement.

Your Panel Feels Hot

Overloaded circuits can get hot. These wires can heat up to dangerous levels, melting plastic or even starting fires. A burning smell can be one of your earliest warning signs. Another sure sign is your electrical panel itself. If your panel isn’t in the sun, it shouldn’t feel hot to the touch. If you ever touch your panel and it’s hot for no apparent reason, you need to contact an electrician right away.

Call an Electrician for Your Electrical Panel Problems

Electrical panel problems disrupt your power at best and can be a threat to your home at worst. Even a newer panel still needs service. That’s why you need to have your panel inspected at the first sign of trouble The sea air here in Santa Barbara, CA can also worsen issues like corrosion. Whether you need repairs or replacement for your electrical panels, call the team at CEC Electrical Services in Santa Barbara, CA today!