How long does an electrical panel last?

Electrical panels typically last between 25 and 40 years, depending on factors like usage, maintenance, and technological advancements. Regular inspections can extend the lifespan of your panel.

What are the signs that my electrical panel needs to be replaced?

Signs include frequent tripping of breakers, flickering or dim lights, burning smells, buzzing sounds, physical damage, rust, and the panel feeling warm to the touch.

Can I replace my electrical panel myself?

No, replacing an electrical panel is a complex and dangerous task that should only be handled by licensed electricians to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

What are the benefits of upgrading to a modern electrical panel?

Upgrading to a modern electrical panel provides improved safety features, the ability to handle higher electrical demands, and the capacity to add extra circuits and outlets, ensuring your home can support modern appliances.

Why do my lights flicker or dim?

Flickering or dim lights often indicate that your electrical panel is inadequate for your home’s electrical load. This issue can typically be resolved by upgrading the panel to meet your household's power demands.

What should I do if I smell burning from my electrical panel?

If you smell burning from your electrical panel, it could be a sign of serious issues like overheating or water infiltration. You should immediately contact a professional electrician to inspect and address the problem.

Electrical Panel Replacement | Servilar Electrician Services in Porto

Electrical Panel Replacement and Upgrading in Porto

The electrical panel is the heart of your home's electrical system, responsible for safely distributing electricity to all devices and appliances. However, over the years, electrical panels can become outdated, unable to meet the growing demand for electricity, or show signs of wear that can compromise safety.

If you live in Porto and your electrical panel is over 25 years old, or you’re experiencing frequent electrical issues, it might be time to consider a replacement or upgrade. Servilar offers specialized solutions to update your electrical panel, ensuring the safety and efficiency of your electrical installation.

When should you replace your electrical panel?

Many homeowners are unaware of the signs that indicate the need for an electrical panel upgrade. Here are some key reasons to consider replacing your panel:

1. Age of the electrical panel

If your home is over 30 years old, your electrical panel may no longer meet modern electrical demands. Older panels, especially those still using fuses instead of circuit breakers, do not offer the same levels of protection and can become dangerous.

2. Frequently tripping circuit breakers

If the circuit breakers in your electrical panel are frequently tripping, it’s a sign that the system is overloaded or that the breakers themselves are failing. This issue occurs when the panel cannot handle the amount of electricity required by modern appliances. Frequent tripping of circuit breakers can significantly shorten their lifespan due to continuous heating and internal wear, leading to the need for early replacement. Ignoring this problem can increase the risk of major electrical failures, including fires and appliance damage. Therefore, if your breakers trip frequently, it's advisable to replace them promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of the system.

3. Flickering or dimming lights

If the lights in your home flicker or dim when other appliances are turned on, it may indicate that the electrical panel is not distributing power properly. This issue is particularly common in homes with outdated or undersized panels.

4. Strange smells or noises

If you hear buzzing sounds or notice a burning smell coming from your electrical panel, you should contact a professional immediately. These signs indicate serious issues, such as loose wires, moisture damage, or even overheating inside the panel.

5. Adding new appliances

When installing new appliances, such as heat pumps, electric vehicle chargers, or HVAC systems, your electrical panel may require an upgrade to support the increased load. Older panels rated at 50 or 100 amps are generally insufficient for today's electrical demands.

Benefits of electrical panel replacement in Porto

Replacing or upgrading your electrical panel offers several benefits in terms of safety and energy efficiency:

1. Enhanced safety

Modern electrical panels come equipped with advanced safety features, such as ground fault circuit interrupters and overload protectors, minimizing the risk of electrical fires and shocks.

2. Increased capacity

With the growing use of appliances and electronic devices, 200-amp panels are now the standard in new installations. Upgrading your electrical panel ensures your home is prepared to handle current and future electrical needs.

3. Compliance with European Standards

Replacing the electrical panel ensures compliance with European electrical standards, such as IEC 60364, which are essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of your home's electrical system. Additionally, a modern panel increases the value of your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers.

4. Energy savings

Upgraded electrical panels offer more efficient energy distribution, reducing waste and helping you save on your electricity bills. It also allows for the integration of smart energy solutions, such as solar panels and electric vehicle chargers.

Servilar’s services in Porto

At Servilar, we offer comprehensive electrical panel replacement and upgrading services to ensure that your home or business in Porto is safe and compliant with the latest electrical standards. From the initial evaluation to the installation of a new electrical panel, our certified electricians in Porto, with over 15 years of experience, ensure professional and high-quality service.