5 Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel

Apr 5, 2025Backup Power & Energy Solutions

Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s power system. If it’s outdated or overloaded, it may be time to upgrade—before you run into major problems.

An outdated or underpowered electrical panel can lead to all sorts of issues—from annoying flickering lights to serious fire hazards. Here are five common signs that your panel needs attention:

  1. Your Panel is Over 25 Years Old
    Older panels weren’t built for today’s energy demands. If your home was built before the 1990s and hasn’t had a panel upgrade, you’re likely due.

  2. You Still Have a Fuse Box
    Fuse boxes are outdated and no longer meet modern safety codes. If you still have one, it’s time to consider an upgrade to a breaker panel.

  3. You’ve Added New Appliances
    Central AC, EV chargers, or a new electric range can overload an old panel. If you’ve recently renovated or added high-demand appliances, your panel may need a boost.

  4. Frequent Breaker Trips
    Breakers that trip regularly are a red flag. It usually means the circuit is overloaded or the panel is struggling to handle your home’s load.

  5. Flickering or Dimming Lights
    Especially when larger appliances turn on, this could indicate your system is straining to supply power consistently.

A panel upgrade improves safety, increases capacity, and can even boost home resale value. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, give Mike DiNinno Electric a call. We’ll evaluate your system and recommend the best solution for your needs.