Spring has just begun, and it’s time to get your home in shape for the upcoming season. One of the critical areas that need attention is your electrical panel. The electrical panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system, and it needs to be maintained to ensure that your home runs smoothly and safely. Here are six ways to keep your electrical panel for spring.
1. Inspect the Panel
The first step in maintaining your electrical panel is to inspect it. Check for noticeable signs of damage like cracks, rusting, or corrosion. Also, check if the breakers are tripping often or if the panel makes unusual sounds. If you notice any issues, call an electrician to repair or replace the panel.
2. Clean the Panel
After inspecting the panel:
- Clean it to remove dust and debris that might have accumulated.
- Ensure that the panel is powered off before cleaning.
- Wipe the panel's surfaces with a dry and lint-free cloth to avoid electrical hazards.
- Don’t use any water or wet cloth in cleaning the panel since water can cause electrical hazards.
3. Tighten Loose Connections
Loose connections can affect the safety and efficiency of your home’s electrical system. Check for loose connections and tighten them to avoid electrical shocks, fires, or power outages. Turn off the breaker and use a screwdriver to tighten any loose connections. If you’re unsure how to do this, call an electrician.
4. Upgrade the Panel
If your home has an outdated electrical panel, it’s about time you upgraded it. An obsolete panel can’t handle the power requirements of modern-day appliances, leading to electrical hazards. Upgrade the panel to increase your home’s electrical capacity, safety, and efficiency. Call an electrician to inspect your old panel and determine if it requires an upgrade.
5. Label the Breakers
Labeling the breakers can save you a lot of time and effort in case of an electrical issue. A labeled panel makes it easier to troubleshoot electrical problems, and you don’t need to turn off the entire house’s power supply when fixing minor issues. Use a circuit breaker template to label the panel and ensure the labels are legible.
6. Schedule Regular Maintenance
To avoid electrical hazards, regular maintenance is crucial. Schedule an annual inspection of your electrical panel to ensure it’s in top-notch condition. Regular maintenance will identify potential electrical risks before they escalate and need expensive repairs. Additionally, regular maintenance will extend the panel’s lifespan, saving you money in the long run.
Lowell's Expert Electricians
Sylvester Electric, Inc. is committed to helping you achieve these goals. Contact us today at (978) 910-0021 to discuss how our team of experts can assist you in maintaining your electrical system for the upcoming seasons.