Obsolete Materials Matter for Electrical Panel Replacement in Charlotte

Everything in your home seems to run through and depend on the electrical panel that powers your appliances, devices, and lights. Many homeowners might not fully understand how the age of their property might be a safety hazard to this crucial system, so knowing when your home was built might tell you when it’s time to replace the electrical components.

When Was Your Home Built?

Home construction is not done with the idea that you’ll one day want an electrical panel upgrade for your Charlotte house. When your home was built decades ago, it was constructed to meet the demands of the current age, not anticipating how much safer materials would become or the significant increase in power demand the typical household would come to average.

Homes Built Before 1980

If your residence was built before 1980 and no upgrades have been made since, the electrical system installed is beyond obsolete in its installation, materials, and load capacity. Take a look and see if you can find any of these problematic components:

• Federal Pacific Electric: The FPE panels were predominantly installed between 1950 and 1980, and these aging components pose fire hazards when breakers fail to trip under overload.

• Zinsco: While mainly used during the 1970s, these electrical boxes were discovered to melt in places that prevented them from shutting off when a surge of power hit the panel.

• Fuse Boxes: If your home still relies on screw-in fuses rather than circuit breakers, you need to upgrade to comply with the Carolina electrical code for modern construction.

The 1990s

If you were among the fortunate homes to avoid the obsolete materials and brands of the past that have become safety issues, it is essential to note that decades-old panels were designed for 100-amp service. Today, the modern home requires far more power, which is why new construction features 200-amp panels installed. Failure to meet this demand can cause stress on the wiring, breakers, and circuits.

Knowing When to Act

Regardless of your home's age, even newer electrical panels may require inspection and replacement. You should continually be monitoring your home for telling signs like:

• Rust and corrosion on the box

• Burning smells around the panel

• Frequently tripping breakers

• A humming sound is coming from the panel

Seeing the signs or concerned about your home having obsolete parts? Our Southern Electric team can help. Let us take a look and help you through the process. Give us a call today at (803) 250-1449.