⚡ How to Know If Your Electrical Panel Needs an Upgrade
By Mt. Vista Electric – Serving Vancouver, WA & Beyond
Your electrical panel is the heart of your home's power system. But like anything else, it doesn’t last forever. As our homes become more tech-heavy, older panels can quickly become outdated or even dangerous. So how do you know when it's time for an upgrade?
Let’s break it down.
🔄 1. You’re Constantly Resetting Tripped Breakers
If you find yourself regularly flipping breakers back on, your panel may be struggling to keep up. Breakers trip to protect your system from overloads—so frequent trips could mean your current panel can't handle your household's energy demand.
Pro Tip:
This is especially common if you've added new appliances, built a home office, or installed an EV charger.
🔌 2. Your Panel Is More Than 25 Years Old
Most panels are designed to last 25–30 years, but many older models were only built to handle 60–100 amps—far below the 150–200 amps needed for modern homes.
Outdated panels can:
Overheat easily
Lack proper safety features
Fail to support new technology
If your panel is decades old, it’s time to consider an upgrade.
⚠️ 3. Signs of Wear, Rust, or Burning
Any visible damage to your electrical panel is a major red flag. Look for:
Burn marks or melted wires
Strange buzzing sounds
A warm panel surface
Rust or corrosion
These could signal loose connections, internal arcing, or fire hazards—and should be inspected immediately by a licensed electrician.
🔧 4. You're Planning a Remodel or Expansion
Renovating your kitchen? Adding a hot tub? Installing solar panels?
Your electrical system needs to keep up with your lifestyle. Upgrading your panel ensures safe, efficient operation as your energy needs grow.
🛠️ Why Upgrade With Mt. Vista Electric?
We specialize in residential electrical upgrades throughout Vancouver, WA. When you call us, you're getting:
A licensed, bonded, and insured team
Transparent quotes
Clean, timely work
Peace of mind for your home and family
📅 Schedule Your Free Estimate Today
If your panel is showing any of these signs—or you just want peace of mind—Mt. Vista Electric is here to help.
👉 Click here to request your FREE electrical panel evaluation
