The electrical panel or breaker box is a central junction for the electrical system of your entire home or building. This makes it essential for the basic function of your system and has serious implications for personal safety. Any unusual behavior from your panel should be a cause for concern. Contact a professional electrician for an inspection and maintenance check if you notice any of these symptoms.
Breakers Keep Tripping
Breakers are designed to trip, but they shouldn’t do it every day or week. Overloading a circuit occasionally isn’t a big deal, but if it’s becoming a consistent issue, there’s probably an underlying problem at work. An electrical short or defect within the electrical panel is a possible cause. It could also indicate faults in the local circuit, including the wiring, outlet, or appliances connected to it.
Flickering or Inconsistent Power
Periodic or inconsistent performance issues with a building’s power system can stem from a panel problem. This can manifest as episodes of dimming or flickering lights throughout the structure, similar to a brownout. It could also cause intermittent power losses or even power spikes in local circuits. This can disrupt normal activities and may damage computers and other sensitive electrical equipment.
Weird Smells and Sounds
Any kind of unusual smell or noise coming from your panel box should be a cause for instant concern. The sound of humming, buzzing, sizzling, or hissing can all indicate a dangerous situation. Stay away from the panel and related circuits until you’ve contacted a professional to help you safely handle the situation. Electrical panels are also a potential source of electrical fire, so be sure to investigate any smells of smoke or burning thoroughly.
Scorching or Melting
Along with smells and sounds, you should also pay close attention to the interior of the panel box. Faults in the panel and circuit overloads can scorch the material and leave obvious traces behind. You may also notice warped sections of the casing or melted plastic components if the panel has been getting dangerously hot during operations.
Professional Solutions for Panel Problems
Electrical issues happen to everyone. Most people rely on these systems every single day, and the modern household puts a heavy demand on their circuits, so it shouldn’t be a big surprise. Henninger Electric is committed to providing exceptional and comprehensive services that include electrical panel diagnosis and repair, so call us today for expert electrical solutions in Cedar Falls, IA.
