Electrical fires are no joke. According to Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), home electrical fires cause 500 deaths, 1,400 injuries, and $1.3 billion in property damage every year. Old electrical panels are the cause of many of these fires. How can you protect yourself from electrical fires due to electrical panels? The team at Jeremy Electrical put together this list of signs to look for.
Signs Your Breaker Box Is Outdated
Recognizing the signs that your electrical panel or breaker box is in need of repair or replacement is the first step to protecting yourself and your family. Look for these three main signs:
1. Light Bulbs Burn Out Quickly and Often
If bulbs in your home burn out often, this is a sign of a faulty electrical panel. The electrical panel’s job is to regulate the flow of electricity. A faulty electrical panel can cause current to fluctuate. If there is too much current, light bulbs will burn out more quickly than they should.
Related Reads: 3 Great Reasons to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel
2. Appliances Don’t Run at Full Power
A lack of current is also a sign of a faulty electrical panel. If the lights flicker or dim while your dryer is running, for example, this is a sign that they are not getting enough current. Pay attention to the lights and if you see repetitive dimming, have your electrical panel checked by a licensed electrician.
3. You See Rust on the Electrical Panel
Rust on or in your electrical panel is a danger sign. If there is rust on your electrical panel, it has been exposed to moisture. Water and electricity don’t mix well, so this could be an indicator of a serious problem. Sparks flying and electricity arcing could result if the breaker box is not replaced immediately.
Inspect All Breaker Boxes That Are 20 Years Old
If you notice any of these three signs, have your electrical panel checked for safety. As a general rule of thumb, If your home is more than 20 years old, you should have your electrical panel inspected for safety. Jeremy Electrical is here to help. One of our professional electricians can inspect your electrical panel and keep you and your family safe.
Give us a call at (913) 375-0070 if you have any questions or concerns about your electrical panel. You can also contact us online. And while you’re here, make sure to take advantage of our exclusive offer below:
