At Amps & Volts Electric, we often get asked: “How do I know when it’s time to replace my electrical panel?” It's a great question—and one that every homeowner should consider. Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system, and when it starts to fail, the risks can range from annoying power outages to serious safety hazards.
Here are 5 reasons to consider upgrading or replacing your electrical panel:
1. Your Home Still Has a Fuse Box
If your home still uses a fuse box instead of a modern circuit breaker panel, it's time for an upgrade. Fuse boxes were common decades ago, but they’re not equipped to handle today’s power demands. From high-powered appliances to electric vehicles, modern homes need more power—and a fuse box just isn’t up to the job.
Why it matters: Fuse boxes can be a fire hazard. A new breaker panel is safer, more efficient, and easier to maintain.
2. Frequent Breaker Trips
If your breakers are constantly tripping or you’re always resetting switches, your panel may be overloaded or malfunctioning. This can happen as homes age and electrical needs increase—especially if your panel wasn’t designed to support things like central air, large kitchen appliances, or home offices.
Why it matters: Breaker trips aren’t just inconvenient—they can be a sign that your system is overheating or at risk of failure.
3. You’re Planning a Remodel or Adding New Appliances
Upgrading your kitchen? Installing a hot tub? Adding a home EV charger? All of these additions draw extra power, and your current panel may not be capable of handling it. An outdated panel can limit what you’re able to do or cause serious problems if it gets overloaded.
Why it matters: A panel upgrade gives you the flexibility to grow with your home, safely and confidently.
4. Your Panel is Over 25 Years Old
Electrical panels don’t last forever. If yours is more than 25-30 years old, it’s likely not meeting modern safety standards. Some panels from the 1970s and 1980s (like Federal Pacific or Zinsco brands) are even known to be fire risks due to manufacturing defects.
Why it matters: Replacing an old panel gives you peace of mind that your home is protected with the latest safety features.
5. You’re Experiencing Dimming or Flickering Lights
Do your lights flicker when the microwave runs? Or dim when the AC kicks on? These can be signs that your panel is struggling to distribute power evenly. Ignoring the signs could eventually damage appliances.
Why it matters: Consistent power flow isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Upgrading your panel ensures that everything in your home works as it should.
Ready to Upgrade? We’re Here to Help.
At Amps & Volts Electric, we specialize in electrical panel replacements and upgrades across Northwest Indiana. Our licensed electricians will assess your home’s needs, clearly explain your options, and complete the job safely and efficiently.
Call us today to schedule a free consultation and make sure your home’s electrical system is built for today—and tomorrow.
📞 219-462-FUSE (3873
🌐 AmpsElectric.com
🔧 Making Northwest Indiana safer, one house at a time.