Don’t Get Left in the Dark: 8 Reasons It May Be Time To Replace Your Electrical Panel

Flickering lights. A new washer and dryer. A strange smell.

These are just a few of the reasons you might want to consider replacing your electrical panel. Failing to make this critical update could not only keep your home from running on full electrical power — it could also be dangerous and costly. 

Here we outline eight reasons to replace an electrical panel and who to call in Portland for professional electrical services.

Table of Contents

• What Is the Average Lifespan of an Electrical Panel?

• 8 Reasons Why Replacing Your Electrical Panel Might Be a Good Idea

• What Is the Average Cost To Replace an Electrical Panel?

• PDX Electric Offers Trusted, High-Quality Electrical Panel Replacements Performed by Professionals

What Is The Average Lifespan of an Electrical Panel? 

While they generally last around 25–40 years, the average lifespan of an electrical panel depends on a variety of factors, including:

• Brand

• Quality of the panel 

• Maintenance 

• Environmental conditions, like humidity and temperature 

• Electrical demands

• Age of household appliances 

PDX Electric is a family-owned company that provides a wide range of residential and commercial electrical services in Portland and the surrounding areas. Whether it's time to replace your electrical panel or you’re in the market for remodeling electrical work, we’ll get the job done right. 

Reach out today for your free estimate. 

8 Reasons Why Replacing Your Electrical Panel Might Be a Good Idea

#1: Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips

Circuit breakers are designed to trip to prevent overloads, which can cause wires to overheat and create fire hazards. Each electrical circuit has a specific capacity that’s determined by the:

• Size of the wiring

• Circuit breaker’s rating

• Number of outlets on the circuit

If you find yourself regularly dealing with tripped circuits, it’s time to consider a service panel upgrade, and possibly a few additional circuits to spread the load more evenly.

#2: Flickering or Dimming Lights

Flickering lights are more than just a nuisance. If your lights start to flicker or dim each time you turn on an appliance, you may have reached the limit of your service panel’s capacity. This is particularly true in older homes that have 60- to 150-amp electrical service.

#3: Burning Smells or Visible Scorch Marks

A burning smell or unusual odor emitting from your electrical panel or outlets is a huge red flag and should never be ignored. This also pertains to discoloration, scorch marks, or melted plastic around your electrical panel. These issues point to overheating or faulty wiring and can quickly escalate into an electrical fire.

#4: Unusual Noises From the Panel

Do you hear buzzing or humming sounds coming from your electrical panel? These likely point to electrical wiring that’s damaged or has become loose. In both of these scenarios, faulty wiring can result in overheating and potentially start a fire. 

H3: #5: Rust or Corrosion

Corrosion can happen over time if moisture is introduced within the panel. If you examine the inside of the panel and see corrosion, rust, a chalky white substance around the screw terminals, or other signs of moisture, it’s time to call the professionals.

#6: Panel Is Hot to the Touch

If your panel or outlets feel hot or even warm to the touch, it’s time to replace your electrical panel. Any level of overheating could quickly and easily lead to an electrical fire. The safest option is to call the professionals to perform an electrical inspection and determine if you have a damaged or faulty electrical panel.

#7: New Appliances

Modern appliances require more power than older models. If you get a new hot tub, washer, dryer, or central air conditioning unit, you may need to upgrade your electrical panel to ensure it can support the increased load.

#8: Older or Undersized Panel

If you live in an older home, your panel may be rated at 50 or 100 amps, which are insufficient for the needs of modern appliances. 

Most professionals recommend upgrading to a panel of 200-amps or higher.

Commonly Asked Questions About Replacing an Electrical Panel

Will Replacing My Electrical Panel Increase My Home’s Value? 

Yes. A modern, updated electrical panel makes your home more attractive to potential buyers by:  

• Offering a greater level of safety

• Supporting higher electrical loads

• Potentially lowering insurance premiums

Can I Replace My Electrical Panel By Myself?

No. Replacing an electrical panel is not only a dangerous job, but it also requires professional licensing, permits, and inspection. Contact the professionals at PDX Electric for electrical panel replacement in Portland. 

What’s the Difference Between Replacing vs. Upgrading an Electrical Panel?

Replacing an electrical panel typically refers to installing a new panel of the same size due to damage or age. 

Upgrading refers to installing a larger-capacity panel — like going from 100 amps to 200 amps — to provide more power to your home.

What Is the Average Cost To Replace an Electrical Panel?

The average cost to replace an electrical panel is typically between $850 and $4,000. The actual cost will vary based on:

• The new panel's amperage

• The condition of your current electrical system

• Labor rates

• The brand you choose

• Local permitting requirements

PDX Electric Offers Trusted, High-Quality Electrical Panel Replacements Performed by Professionals

If you’re having issues with your current panel, you can count on PDX Electric for everything electrical panel-related.

Whether your current electrical panel needs troubleshooting, replacement due to aging equipment, or updates to accommodate new appliances, a hot tub, or an EV car, our team of professionals will get the job done.

Protect your Portland home and keep things running smoothly with a panel upgrade from PDX Electric. Request an estimate today.