How to Properly Maintain Your Home’s Electrical Panel

In this blog, Mr. Electric shares tips on how to properly maintain your electrical panel. We are licensed and experienced electricians who are committed to helping homeowners and businesses maintain optimal electrical safety. If you ever happen to need professional electrical panel repair, we are the electricians to call.

• Conduct a Visual Inspection

Regularly examine your electrical panel for signs of wear or damage. Look for rust, corrosion, or any visible cracks. Check for loose wires or connections, and ensure there are no signs of overheating, like discolored wires or melted insulation. Pay attention to any unusual smells, such as burning or ozone, as these can indicate serious problems. A visual inspection allows you to catch potential hazards before they escalate.

• Check for Overheating

Your electrical panel will give off warning signs if it’s overheating. Look for discolored wires, melted insulation, or a burning smell. Feel the panel’s surface; if it’s unusually warm or hot to the touch—this is a sign that something is wrong. There’s a good chance you’re dealing with an overloaded circuit or a loose connection within the panel. Another sign of an electrical panel issue is a burning smell coming from the unit. Do not hesitate to contact a licensed electrical service when you notice a problem.  

• Test Circuit Breakers

Just like smoke detectors and GFCI outlets, circuit breakers need to be tested regularly to ensure they’re in good working condition. These safety devices can deteriorate over time or malfunction due to electrical surges or other factors. Flip the breakers off and on to see if they engage and disengage smoothly. Properly working circuit breakers should remain in the “on” position without immediately tripping. If a breaker feels loose, sticky, or trips repeatedly, it may be faulty. Reach out to a dependable electrical repair service for circuit breaker repair before the problem escalates.

• Ensure Proper Labeling

Clearly mark each breaker with the corresponding room or appliance it controls. This prevents confusion during emergencies or when troubleshooting circuits. Proper labeling also saves time and reduces the risk of accidentally turning off the wrong circuit. Verify labels periodically, especially after any electrical work, to ensure they remain accurate and legible.

• Maintain Clearances

It’s common for homeowners to keep items in or near the electrical panel, often without realizing the potential dangers. Some of the items we find in electrical panels include boxes, cleaning supplies, voltage testers, and more. This practice can obstruct access during emergencies, create fire hazards, and hinder proper ventilation.

• Schedule Inspections Every Three Years 

Electricians recommend you schedule an electrical panel inspection every three years. Regular inspections to make sure everything is in good working condition and meets safety codes. An experienced electrician can perform checks, identify problems, and ensure everything is working properly. It is highly recommended that any work performed on the electrical panel be performed by a licensed electrical repair service. Never be tempted to diagnose or repair your electrical panel.

Trust Mr. Electric for All Your Electrical Service Needs

A well-maintained electrical panel guarantees safety and ensures your electrical system functions efficiently. At Mr. Electric, we understand the importance of a well-maintained electrical panel. As a proficient electrical service, we’re dedicated to ensuring the safety and efficiency of your home’s electrical system. Whether you need electrical panel repair or replacement, we are the experts you can trust. With our expertise and experience, you can rest assured that we’ll handle the job professionally and safely.