Your home’s electrical panel is the heart of your electrical system—it distributes power safely and efficiently to every outlet, appliance, and device. But like any critical component, it doesn’t last forever. Over time, panels can wear down, become outdated, or fail to meet modern electrical demands. Knowing when it’s time for an upgrade is key to protecting your home and your family.
At Associated Heating and Air Conditioning, we don’t just handle heating and cooling—we also provide professional installation and replacement for electrical panels. Here’s how to know when your panel may be due for an upgrade.
How Old Is Your Electrical Panel?
Age is one of the most important factors when deciding whether to replace your electrical panel. Most panels last between 25 and 30 years, depending on maintenance and usage. If your home still has its original panel and it’s approaching—or has exceeded—this range, it may no longer meet today’s safety or power requirements.
Older panels were designed when homes had fewer electronics and smaller energy demands. Modern households rely on high-wattage appliances, computers, and smart devices that put far more stress on the electrical system. A panel that once worked fine might now struggle to keep up, increasing the risk of tripped breakers, power fluctuations, or even electrical fires.
Warning Signs That It’s Time to Replace
Beyond age, there are several telltale signs that your electrical panel needs attention. Watch for these common indicators:
- Frequent breaker trips or fuses blowing
- Flickering or dimming lights when appliances turn on
- Burn marks, rust, or a burning smell near the panel
- Buzzing or crackling sounds from the breaker box
- Warm or hot panel surfaces
- Limited breaker space when adding new circuits
These are not issues to ignore. They can point to overloaded circuits or deteriorating components that pose serious safety hazards.
The Hidden Danger of Federal Pacific Electrical Panels
One specific issue homeowners in older homes should be aware of is Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panels. These panels were widely installed from the 1950s through the 1980s—but they’ve since been found to have significant safety problems.
Many FPE breakers fail to trip when overloaded, creating a major fire risk. In fact, testing by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission found that up to 25% of FPE breakers could malfunction under normal conditions. If your home has a Federal Pacific or Stab-Lok panel, it should be replaced immediately by a licensed electrician.
Why Professional Replacement Matters
Electrical panel replacement is not a DIY project—it requires licensed, experienced professionals who understand safety codes and local permitting requirements. The electricians at Associated Heating and Air Conditioning ensure every installation is done correctly, efficiently, and safely.
Your electrical panel is the backbone of your home’s power supply. If it’s outdated, damaged, or no longer reliable, don’t wait for a problem to occur. The experts at Associated Heating and Air Conditioning in Eugene, OR can inspect your current system and recommend the right replacement for your home’s needs.
Call Associated Heating and Air Conditioning today to schedule your electrical panel inspection or replacement and keep your home powered safely and efficiently.
Contact Associated Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. today for electrical panel service.