Outdated electrical panels can be not just inefficient but also dangerous. It’s best to have a professionally installed junction box that will be able to handle all of your power needs and then some. Read on to learn more about what to look for when it comes to checking if your panel is outdated.
Less Than 100 Amps
Old houses, such as those built before about 1950, might only have 60 amps in the junction box. Back then, many household appliances ran on gas and not electricity, thereby making the demand much less. If your junction box has fewer than 100 amps of capability, then it’s time to replace it.
The Handiwork of a Friend or Family Member
There are YouTube videos on all manner of topics when it comes to electrical systems in houses. Installing a junction box requires painstaking attention to detail, access to the right tools, and the right training. Unless your friend or family member is an actual electrician, then it behooves you to get a professional to check out your junction box to see if it’s installed correctly and if the installer used the right parts and up-to-code techniques.
Rust, Broken Pieces, or Both
Your junction box should be structurally sound. If it’s not, then not only is it likely old, but it’s also ready to be replaced. Have a professional electrician check it out to see what’s what.
Excessive Tripping
The breakers inside the box might be worn out and need replacement. Also, the internal wiring could be worn out. In either case, replacing the junction box makes sense because the cost of the replacement will be roughly the same as the cost of a repair. When you replace your junction box, it’s a good idea to upgrade it to at least 200 amps.
A Lack of Outlets
Because older homes didn’t need that much electrical power, they have few outlets. Modern homes need many more. So, if you’re using extension chords, power bars, and other such devices, just to bring power to certain rooms of your home, then you might need to look into replacing your electrical panel.
Fuses Instead of Breakers
Fuses were the only game in town 70 years ago. Then, in the 1960s, things began to change. If your junction box still has fuses in it at all, then it’s time to upgrade. Again, be sure to get at least 200 amps with your new junction box.
Experience and Dedication
As professional electricians, we have nearly 30 years of experience upon which you can count when we have to replace your junction box. When we do, we will also check your wiring and outlets to make sure that everything’s up-to-code and safe. So, give us a call at Mister Sparky today to set up an appointment.