Your home’s electrical panel is the heart of its electrical system. It distributes electricity to various circuits and ensures your appliances, lighting, and devices work efficiently and safely. But like any other part of your home, electrical panels don’t last forever. An outdated or faulty panel can lead to a range of issues, from frequent power interruptions to serious safety hazards.

At Comet Electric, we believe in keeping your home both functional and safe. Here are five key signs that it may be time to replace your electrical panel.

1. Frequent Breaker Trips

Circuit breakers are designed to trip as a safety measure when there’s too much electrical current flowing through them. While an occasional trip isn’t usually a cause for concern, frequent tripping is a red flag.

If you find yourself constantly resetting breakers, it could mean your panel is overloaded or not equipped to handle the electrical demands of your modern household. Older panels were not built for today’s technology-heavy homes, which often include multiple smart devices, HVAC systems, and high-wattage appliances.

Upgrading your panel ensures your system can handle your current electrical load without constantly shutting down.

2. Flickering or Dimming Lights

If your lights flicker or dim unexpectedly—especially when using major appliances—it could indicate your panel is struggling to distribute electricity evenly.

This issue is common in older panels that can’t keep up with high energy demands. For example, when your air conditioner kicks on and your lights dim, that’s a signal your panel may be maxed out.

Upgrading to a modern electrical panel allows for more consistent and reliable power delivery throughout your home, reducing interruptions and protecting your appliances.

3. Your Panel Is Over 25 Years Old

Electrical panels typically have a lifespan of 25 to 40 years, depending on usage and maintenance. If your panel is more than 25 years old, it’s time to consider an upgrade—even if you haven’t experienced major issues yet.

Older panels may not comply with current safety codes, lack adequate circuit capacity, or contain outdated components that pose fire risks. Some panels manufactured decades ago, such as certain Federal Pacific or Zinsco models, are now known to be unsafe and should be replaced immediately.

An inspection from a licensed electrician can help determine if your older panel is still safe—or if it’s time for an upgrade.

4. You Still Have a Fuse Box

If your home still relies on a fuse box instead of a modern breaker panel, you’re due for an upgrade.

Fuse boxes were common in homes built before the 1960s and are now considered outdated and unsafe by today’s standards. Unlike circuit breakers, fuses must be replaced every time they blow, which is inconvenient and potentially dangerous if you use the wrong size fuse.

Modern breaker panels are safer, easier to use, and can accommodate the electrical demands of contemporary living. Replacing your fuse box with a breaker panel significantly improves your home’s electrical safety and convenience.

5. Burning Smells, Scorch Marks, or Strange Noises

These are urgent warning signs that should never be ignored. A burning odor coming from your panel, visible scorch marks, or buzzing and crackling sounds can indicate serious electrical problems like overheating, arcing, or short circuits.

These issues pose a significant fire risk and require immediate professional attention. In many cases, they suggest internal damage to the panel, worn-out components, or poor wiring practices that could lead to a dangerous situation.

If you notice any of these symptoms, shut off the power and contact a licensed electrician right away. Replacing your panel may be necessary to restore safety to your home.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Electrical panels are easy to overlook—until something goes wrong. At Comet Electric, we’ve seen how an outdated or failing panel can put homes and families at risk. Whether you’re experiencing one of the signs above or simply want to future-proof your home, replacing your electrical panel is a smart investment in safety, performance, and peace of mind.

Thinking about upgrading your electrical panel?

Contact Comet Electric today for a comprehensive inspection and professional recommendation. We’ll ensure your system is up to code, meets your home’s energy demands, and keeps your family safe for years to come.