Your home’s electrical panel is the heart of your electrical system. It distributes electricity throughout your home, powers your appliances, and helps ensure safety from overloads and short circuits. Like any system, however, electric panels can develop issues over time. Understanding the most common problems and how to address them is essential for the safety and efficiency of your home.
In this blog, we’ll explore the typical issues that affect electric panel repair and what you can do to fix them, or when to call in the pros at Phase Electric.
1. Frequent Circuit Breaker Tripping
The Problem:
If your circuit breaker is tripping repeatedly, it’s usually a sign that the circuit is overloaded. This happens when too many appliances or devices draw more current than the circuit can handle.
The Fix:
Start by unplugging some of the appliances on that circuit to reduce the load. If the issue persists, the breaker itself might be faulty, or there may be a wiring issue. In that case, it’s best to have a licensed electrician inspect the panel.
Tip: Upgrading the circuit or redistributing the electrical load may help long term.
2. Burning Smell or Scorch Marks
The Problem:
A burning smell near the panel or visible scorch marks is a serious red flag. It may indicate loose wiring, a melted breaker, or arcing (when electricity jumps between connections).
The Fix:
Immediately turn off power to the panel and call an emergency electrician. This issue can quickly lead to an electrical fire. Never attempt to repair this yourself unless you are a qualified professional.
3. Old or Outdated Panels
The Problem:
Many older homes still use outdated panels such as Federal Pacific or Zinsco panels, which are known for faulty breakers and fire risks. If your panel is more than 25-30 years old, it may not meet modern safety standards.
The Fix:
If your panel is outdated, it’s time for an upgrade. A modern electric panel will offer better safety, increased capacity, and compatibility with newer appliances. Phase Electric specializes in safe, code-compliant panel upgrades.
4. Loose or Corroded Wires
The Problem:
Loose connections or corrosion inside the panel can disrupt the flow of electricity and cause overheating. Corroded wires are especially dangerous because they can’t carry current efficiently.
The Fix:
Shut off the main power supply and check for visible signs of corrosion or loose terminals (only if you’re trained to do so). For safety and accuracy, this job is best left to a certified electrician. We’ll ensure connections are tight and corrosion-free.
5. Buzzing or Humming Sounds
The Problem:
A low hum is normal, but loud buzzing can indicate a serious problem like a bad breaker, loose wiring, or an overloaded panel.
The Fix:
Do not ignore strange noises from your panel. Turn off the affected breakers and contact an electrician to diagnose and repair the issue before it leads to failure or fire.
6. Double-Tapped Breakers
The Problem:
Double-tapping happens when two wires are connected to a single breaker that is only designed for one. This is a code violation and can cause overheating or arcing.
The Fix:
The solution depends on the panel. An electrician can often resolve the issue by adding another breaker or installing a properly rated tandem breaker. At Phase Electric, we evaluate each situation and offer compliant, safe solutions.
7. Tripped Main Breaker
The Problem:
If your main breaker is tripping, it suggests a larger issue affecting the entire panel. This could be due to short circuits, overload, or a failing breaker.
The Fix:
Resetting the main breaker may solve the problem temporarily, but repeated tripping signals a deeper issue. Call a professional to inspect your system, identify the root cause, and perform any necessary repairs or replacements.
8. Lack of Available Breaker Slots
The Problem:
If you’ve added new appliances or expanded your home, you may run out of available breaker slots. Overcrowding the panel or using substandard fixes can lead to hazards.
The Fix:
You may need a sub-panel installation or a full panel upgrade to support the additional circuits. This is especially important if you’re adding HVAC systems, hot tubs, or EV chargers.
Safety First: Why Professional Help Matters
Electric panels are not DIY-friendly. Mishandling live wires or improper repairs can cause electrocution, fire, or even death. That’s why it’s crucial to have a licensed and experienced electrician like Phase Electric assess and resolve your panel issues.
Our technicians have the tools, expertise, and safety training to handle any electrical panel concern, big or small. Whether you need a simple breaker replacement or a full system upgrade, we’ll get the job done efficiently and safely.
Final Thoughts
Your electric panel keeps your home running smoothly and safely but only if it’s in good working order. Ignoring panel issues can lead to serious hazards, including electrical fires and appliance damage. Being proactive, recognizing warning signs, and calling in professionals when needed can save you time, money, and stress.
Phase Electric is your trusted partner for expert panel repair and upgrades. Contact us today for a full inspection or to schedule a service call. Your safety is our top priority.
