The real estate market continues to be challenging, and many home buyers are considering the purchase of an older home to stay within budget. However, the importance of a reliable and safe electrical system cannot be overstated – and many older homes are in need of upgrades. You might think that your bulbs, fixtures, or outlets are the most important part of your system, but the heart of any residential electrical system – the circuit breaker – is what you should prioritize regarding upgrades and maintenance. If your circuit breaker is sitting alone in the garage and hasn’t been interacted with in years, you may need to take action to address this outdated aspect of your system.
Don’t Ignore Outdated Circuit Breakers
Outdated circuit breakers are relics of a time when households consumed far less power. As the number of devices and the complexity of home electrical systems have grown, these old protectors may no longer suffice. Many homes in Florida maintain the style of the past, but you shouldn’t bring their 20th-century power concerns into the modern era.
The primary concern is safety. Circuit breakers that can’t handle the load of modern electrical usage pose a significant fire risk. When unable to trip correctly, these breakers allow circuits to become overloaded without interruption, leading to overheating and, potentially, fires. Moreover, the risk of electric shocks or equipment damage escalates when a breaker fails to perform its protective function. A circuit meant to be cut off during a fault could remain live, posing a direct threat to the safety of the home’s inhabitants and the integrity of electronic devices.
Beyond the immediate dangers to safety, outdated circuit breakers also impact your home’s energy efficiency. These inefficiencies manifest as higher utility bills and undue stress on household appliances, which could lead to premature wear or failure. Sticking with an antiquated breaker system forces homeowners to choose between risking their electronic investments and enduring unnecessary energy costs. In 2024, there is no reason to deal with these inefficiencies.
Recognizing the Electrical Needs in an Older Home
Some telltale signs that your circuit breakers may be outdated or malfunctioning include frequent tripping, buzzing sounds, burning smells, or visible signs of damage to the breaker itself. When you notice any of these issues, your first instinct should be to address them. Most of the time, people don’t think to check their breaker for issues, only venturing to the panel when something inside the house goes wrong. However, checking your circuit breaker for visible wear and tear is quick and easy. If you are reading this and realizing that you haven’t seen it in months or years, go take a look! Always make sure to follow the listed safety instructions on the circuit breaker and avoid messing with circuit breakers that look damaged or unsafe.
A circuit breaker isn’t like a television, and springing for a new model isn’t a luxury purchase. Delaying the maintenance, repair, or upgrade of a circuit breaker just leads to higher energy costs, a higher risk of danger, and potential damage to your system and devices. Modern circuit breakers have advanced safety features that better protect against overcurrents and short circuits, minimizing the risk of electrical fires and shocks. They are more adept at handling the electrical needs of contemporary homes, allowing you to use high-demand appliances and sophisticated electronics without the inefficiency of their outdated counterparts.
New patio lights, a new kitchen remodel with high-end appliances, or an at-home EV charger are all more dramatic and exciting upgrades to your older home, but you shouldn’t ignore your circuit breaker. Contact Promise Electric today to schedule a professional assessment and ensure your electrical system meets modern standards.
