Electrical service panels require updates and possibly replacement as time goes on and the homeowner upgrades appliances and technology in the house. Sometimes older service panels simply cannot handle the power needs of modern appliances.Before you start to experience the nuisance of power outages, call Top Dog Electric for a high-quality electrical panel upgrade or replacement.

First, one of our licensed inspectors will evaluate your home’s electrical system. We have extensive experience working with both older and newer homes, and we place an emphasis on safety. In addition, we recognize that amenities like pools, jacuzzis, central air, and high-efficiency appliances create special electrical needs. We have a variety of solutions available related to additional circuit breakers and additional amperage. Our goal is keep your home’s power system running smoothly.

The electrical panel inspection

A professional electrical panel inspection is a must to ensure the various systems in your home operate reliably all year long.Over the years homes have grown larger and more complex, but many times the electrical systems were designed for power needs from decades ago. High-tech appliances and electronics, in particular, need a modern electrical system to operate safely and normally.

Many homes feature outdated fuse block panels. These panels frequently have incorrectly sized fuses connected to wires that are too small. Such a system represents a serious safety risk. Another major concern is that certain brands of low-quality electrical panels have found their way into homes, either through builders looking to cut corners, or unskilled electricians. Panels like these look functional, but have been known to cause overheating and major damage when their circuit breakers malfunction.

Top Dog Electric technicians encounter obsolete electrical panels nearly every day. Many feature incorrect materials, corrosion, weak or faulty connections, and other problems. It’s a fact that thousands of homes today feature electrical panels that would not meet modern safety codes upon inspection. We are experts at identifying risky systems and performing a replacement that will bring your home up to date.

More reasons to upgrade your main electrical service and panel

Many homeowners and property managers do not realize growing numbers of insurance carriers will not insure structures with older, fuse-based electrical systems.Electrical systems are like anything else … they suffer from wear and tear over the years. Sometimes panels become contaminated by water, paint, and corrosive environments. Neglecting these systems can result in emergencies, and even more expensive repairs down the road.We frequently recommend an upgrade of the electrical panel, bringing the meter socket up to date. Or wire enhancement or replacement, and making sure the grounding is sound.

Top Dog Electric uses panels of the highest quality that are built by today’s top manufacturers, including Cutler Hammer, Square D, and Federal. These products are frequently used on new construction of high-end homes and other buildings.We guarantee all of our work and handle electrical projects with the approach of providing the customer with a system that will last many years with minimal maintenance and problems.

About upgrading to a breaker panel system from a fuse panel

Many people have experience with a fuse panel system, because when a fuse blows, they must replace it. Sometimes they will replace a 15 amp fuse with a 20, 25, or 30 amp fuse with the hope the higher-numbered fuse will not blow again.However, fuses are rated for the wire the fuse is protecting. Mismatching fuses and wires can cause overheating and other emergencies. Remember that wires run through wood studs in walls throughout a structure, so the risk of a serious fire exists.

No wonder insurance companies voice concern when a property owner tries to attain a policy on a structure that features a fuse panel. The simple act of plugging too many devices on one circuit can lead to disaster.

Top Dog Electric frequently recommends replacement of a fuse panel system to a breaker panel system. We conduct this service using our many years of knowledge and experience, and with the highest-quality, modern systems. And all at a reasonable cost.We’ll advise you of all matters related to paperwork, inspections, and other regulatory requirements.

How do I know I might have a serious problem with my electrical system?

Many people assume an electrical system will last forever. But the truth is these systems are affected by maintenance issues just like everything else.The first step is to locate your electrical panel. It’s usually housed in a metal box that is gray or painted to match a wall. Electrical panels can usually be found in a closet, basement, garage, utility room, or laundry room.

Symptoms of electrical panel problems include fuses that frequently blow, breakers constantly tripping, flickering lights within a structure, and melted wires. In more serious cases, overheating, fire, and shocks can result.We advise against simply turning off one appliance simply to use another. In such a case a serious safety issue could exist, and the problem requires attention from a skilled technician like the professionals at Top Dog Electric.

It could be your electrical panel is obsolete, or a low-quality system was installed at the time of construction. Listen for crackling sounds from your panel box, and look for rust on the breakers and panel.

Take immediate action if you notice appliances are running at less than full power, or you frequently are forced to use extension cords to meet your energy needs. A renovation project, especially a kitchen, will probably require a new electrical panel to meet the needs of today’s appliances. Be wary of relying on an old electrical panel if you are building a home addition or have purchased a new temperature system, power equipment, or spa.

Even homes built as recently as the 1980’s have been discovered to have unsafe, deteriorating electrical panel systems. Protect your investment and make sure you have this vital system professionally installed and operating properly.