Troubleshoot Your Breaker Panel
A breaker panel—also known as an electrical panel in Austin, TX—is a component that distributes electrical power to various circuits in your home. The panel serves as the main power source for electrical outlets, lighting, appliances, and devices in your home. It contains circuit breakers that cut off power supply to a specific circuit whenever there’s an overload or short circuit. However, just like other electrical service components, the breaker panel can develop issues over time.
Some of the common signs that your breaker panel needs repair include frequent circuit breaker trips, a burning smell coming from the breaker panel, buzzing sounds, and warm breakers. None of these issues should be ignored as they can lead to a power outage, safety hazards, and inconveniences. In this guide, Mr. Electric outlines the steps to troubleshoot breaker panel.
How to Troubleshoot Breaker Panel
- Check for Tripped Breakers
Inspect the breaker panel for switches in the “off” or halfway position. Reset them by firmly switching to “off” before turning back to “on.” If the breaker trips again immediately, it may indicate an overloaded circuit or a short, requiring further investigation or professional assistance.
- Test for Overloaded Circuits
Overloaded circuits can trip breakers repeatedly. Unplug devices and redistribute the load across different circuits. After reducing the load, reset the breaker. If it holds, the issue was likely an overload. Persistent tripping may suggest wiring problems or faulty appliances that need closer inspection.
- Look for Loose Connections
Turn off the main power and check for loose wires or connections inside the panel. Loose connections can cause arcing and overheating. Tighten screws and connections carefully, but only if you’re comfortable working with electricity. Otherwise, contact a licensed electrician to handle repairs safely.
- Inspect for Burn Marks or Damage
Burn marks, melted insulation, or a burning smell indicate potential damage inside the panel. These signs often point to short circuits, faulty wiring, or overheating breakers. Stop using the panel and call an electrician to diagnose and resolve the problem before it worsens.
- Call a Licensed Electrician for Breaker Panel Repair
If troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue or you notice signs of damage, it’s time to call a licensed electrician. Electrical repairs can be dangerous without proper training. A professional can safely diagnose complex problems, replace faulty breakers, and ensure your panel meets safety codes for reliable operation. It is important to note that breaker panels don’t last forever. They usually last between 25 and 40 years, depending on several factors. A breaker panel past its lifespan is more likely to cause recurring issues that will compromise electrical safety and cost you a lot of money in the long run. If your breaker panel has reached the end of its lifespan, get in touch with Mr. Electric for breaker panel replacement.
Mr. Electric Is Here To Help
Looking for an electrician near me offering breaker panel repair or replacement? Look no further than Mr. Electric. Our electricians are highly trained and experienced in handling all types of electrical issues, including breaker panel upgrades, repairs, and replacements.
