Signs You Need Electrical Panel Upgrades
Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s power system. It distributes electricity to outlets, lights, and appliances. But as homes grow smarter and more energy-intensive, older panels can struggle to keep up. Knowing the warning signs can help you avoid costly damage — or even electrical fires.
Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips
If you’re resetting breakers often, it’s a clear signal that your panel is overloaded.
Why It Happens: Too many high-power devices (like HVAC systems, EV chargers, or modern kitchen appliances) exceed the panel’s capacity.
What to Do: Call a licensed electrician to assess whether your home needs a panel upgrade or added subpanels.
Fuses Instead of Breakers
Still using a fuse box? It’s time to upgrade.
Why It Matters: Fuses are outdated and not designed for today’s electrical loads. Replacing blown fuses repeatedly can be dangerous and inconvenient.
Upgrade Benefit: A modern breaker panel is safer, easier to manage, and often required by insurance and building codes.
Flickering or Dimming Lights
If your lights flicker when you run an appliance (like the microwave or washing machine), your panel may be struggling.
Other Signs: Lights dim when AC or heating kicks in, or inconsistent lighting throughout the home.
Warm or Buzzing Panel
Your electrical panel should be cool and silent.
Red Flags Include:
A warm cover
Buzzing or humming sounds
Burning smells
These can indicate loose connections, overheating, or failing components — all of which pose fire risks.
New Appliances or Renovations
Adding a hot tub, EV charger, solar panels, or a home office?
What You Need: Your panel may not have enough amps to support the increased demand. Upgrading ensures safety, efficiency, and future flexibility.
Don’t Wait for a Serious Problem ⚠️
An outdated panel isn’t just inefficient — it can be dangerous. Upgrading improves safety, supports new tech, and may even increase your home’s value.
Trust AE Electric Ltd for Reliable Panel Upgrades
Serving Vancouver Island, our licensed electricians specialize in panel inspections, upgrades, and service changes. Whether you’re renovating, expanding, or just want peace of mind — we’ve got you covered ✅