How to Tell If Your Home Is Due for an Electrical Panel Upgrade

Considering upgrading your panel? Lets explore the positive aspects of a panel upgrade
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Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system. It distributes power safely to every outlet, appliance, and fixture. But many homes in Northeastern Pennsylvania—especially older ones—are running on panels that were never designed to handle modern electrical demands.

Knowing when it’s time for an electrical panel upgrade can help you avoid safety hazards, power issues, and costly damage.

Your Home Still Has an Old or Outdated Panel

If your home has a fuse box or an older brand like Federal Pacific or Zinsco, it’s a strong sign an upgrade is overdue. Many homes built before the 1990s in areas like Dallas, Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, and surrounding NEPA communities were not designed for today’s electrical usage.

Outdated panels may:

  • Struggle to meet modern power needs
  • Increase fire risk

Fail to meet current electrical codes

 Breakers Trip Frequently

Occasional breaker trips are normal, but frequent tripping is not.

If your breakers trip when:

  • Running multiple appliances

  • Using space heaters or window AC units

  • Turning on high-demand equipment

…it usually means your panel is overloaded and can’t safely distribute power anymore.

 

Lights Flicker or Dimming Happens Often

Flickering or dimming lights—especially when appliances turn on—are a common warning sign. This often indicates:

  • Insufficient power capacity

  • Aging electrical components

  • Poor power distribution from the panel

These issues are especially common in older NEPA homes that have been expanded or renovated over time.

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You’ve Added New Appliances or Renovated

Modern homes use far more electricity than they did decades ago. If you’ve recently added:

  • Central air conditioning

  • Hot tubs or EV chargers

  • Finished basements or home offices

  • Kitchen upgrades with high-powered appliances

your existing panel may no longer be adequate. An upgraded panel ensures your system can safely handle increased demand.

Burning Smells or Warm Panel Covers

This is a serious warning sign.

If you notice:

  • Burning or melting smells

  • Warmth around the panel

  • Buzzing or crackling sounds

shut off power if possible and contact a licensed electrician immediately. These signs may indicate overheating, faulty breakers, or loose connections—all of which increase fire risk.

Limited Breaker Space

If your panel is full and electricians have had to use tandem breakers or workarounds, it’s often time for an upgrade. A new panel provides:

  • More breaker space

  • Better organization

  • Room for future electrical needs

This is especially important for homeowners planning future improvements.

Your Panel Is 25–40+ Years Old

Even if it seems to be “working fine,” electrical panels have a limited lifespan. Older panels lack the safety features and capacity required by modern codes.

In NEPA’s mix of historic and mid-century homes, aging panels are one of the most common electrical safety concerns.

When to Call a Professional Electrician

If you’re experiencing any of the signs above, a licensed local electrician can inspect your system and recommend the right solution—whether that’s a full panel upgrade or a capacity expansion.

Don’t wait until small electrical issues turn into major hazards. A proactive panel upgrade keeps your home safe, efficient, and ready for the future.