Your breaker panel isn't something that most homeowners think about upgrading. It's one of the most commonly overlooked things in a home. However, breaker panels are designed to carry the load of the energy that your home uses. As that load increases, you'll discover that breaker panels need a replacement. Here are the most common signs it's time to call an electrician service for a replacement.

1. It's the Original Breaker Panel

Because homeowners don't usually replace breaker panels until they have to, there's a good chance that yours should have been replaced years ago. The average lifespan of a breaker panel is a few decades. So, if yours is from when the house was originally built, it's time to contact a professional electrician service for an inspection.

2. You're Constantly Blowing Breakers

When the energy consumption of a house is too much for the breaker panel to handle, you blow a breaker. This is a common energy peak, such as in hot months or during cold winters. However, if you discover that you're heading to the breaker box to flip a breaker every few hours or days, it may be time for an upgrade. According to Facts.net, Americans' energy consumption doubles every 20 years, so it's possible that your breaker box is no longer suitable for your electricity needs.

3. It's Corroded or Worn Down

Breaker panels are often placed in a basement. Unfortunately, this is a common design problem in homes. Basements that are not finished can accumulate moisture and mold, neither of which is good for your breaker panel. Homeowners that notice rust or corrosion on the breaker box must contact an electrician. These are signs that you need a replacement and that your breaker box is a fire hazard.

4. It Feels Hot

It's common for breaker panels to flip a breaker if they begin to overheat. This is a preventative measure to ensure that nothing dangerous happens. However, sometimes your breaker box begins to overheat or doesn't flip a breaker when it should. Breaker boxes that feel hot or warm often need an upgrade and could be a fire hazard. You must contact an electrician immediately to keep yourself and your family safe.

Breaker panels that need to be updated can inconvenience homeowners who frequently go to the basement to flip breakers and are a potential safety hazard. Do you need to replace your breaker box? Contact Boucher Electric Inc today for a professional electrician service.