Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s power system. When it’s outdated or faulty, it can create serious safety risks for your family. Here are some warning signs that your panel might need attention from a licensed electrician:
If your breakers are tripping often — even when you aren’t running many appliances — it’s a sign your panel may be overloaded or failing.
Lights that flicker or dim unexpectedly can indicate that your panel isn’t distributing power evenly.
Any scorch marks, melted wires, or burning odor near your panel is an immediate red flag. This could mean dangerous overheating.
Your panel should be cool and silent. If it feels warm to the touch or you hear buzzing/humming, call an electrician right away.
Signs of rust or water damage inside or around your panel compromise both safety and functionality.
Some panels (like Federal Pacific Electric or Zinsco) are known fire hazards. If your home still has one, replacement is strongly recommended.
An unsafe panel can lead to electrical fires, power outages, or damage to your expensive electronics. If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, it’s best to schedule a professional inspection right away.
Pro Tip: Regular inspections not only keep your family safe but can also add to your home’s value by ensuring your electrical system meets today’s standards.
Think your panel might be unsafe? Contact K.O. Electric for a professional inspection today.