Many homes built before 2015 have a 100 Amp or 150 Amp 30/60-circuit electrical panel. This means that the panel can theoretically supply up to 100 or 150Amps and fit 30 single breakers or 60 tandem breakers–tandem breakers are where two breakers are fit into one open space.
Smaller Panels Pose Substantial Safety Hazards
These smaller panels pose substantial safety hazards and can affect the functionality of your entire home.
Tripping Breakers
Firstly, When you overload your electrical panel, the circuit breakers can trip, shutting off power to the affected circuits. This can be inconvenient and frustrating if it happens frequently, but that’s the least of your problems.
Damage to Appliances and Devices
Next, it’ll fry your appliances and devices that are connected to it. How much money have you invested in the appliances and devices plugged into your home electrical system?
Electrical Fires
Overloading your electrical panel can also create heat buildup, which can damage wiring insulation and potentially cause an electrical fire.
Electrical Shock
Lastly, is a crowd favorite: getting electrocuted. When the electrical demand exceeds the capacity of the panel, it can cause the voltage to drop, which can cause electrical components themselves to become a huge safety hazard.
If your panel is overloaded, you need to address the issue, yesterday. This may involve upgrading your electrical panel to a larger capacity, or it may require redistributing the electrical load to different circuits. Touchstone Electric will help properly diagnose and propose a solution for your home.
Upgrading an electrical panel is a complex and dangerous task if you’re not an experienced electrician. We’d be happy to assess your current electrical system and determine whether upgrading to a 200 amp panel is the right choice for your home.