Did You Know? Your Electrical Panel Might Be Too Small

Most people have done it at least once: made the trip to the basement or utility closet to flip a tripped circuit breaker. This happening once or twice isn't a big deal — power surges and accidental overdraws happen. But if you're making the trip to the electrical panel regularly, it could be a sign of a larger issue — such as a small electrical panel that isn't serving the needs of your home.

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Is It Bad If Your Electrical Panel Is Too Small?

A small electrical panel isn't necessarily bad. However, if your panel is undersized for your home electrical system and needs, it can be an issue. A too-small electrical panel can't handle the demand in your home, which can lead to breakers tripping regularly, inefficient power distribution and even fire hazards or shock risks.

What Should You Do If You Have a Small Electrical Panel?

You can increase electrical panel capacity by upgrading to a larger panel. Panel replacement may be necessary if you have an old panel that's not suitable for modern home electrical needs. You might also need to update your home electrical system and panel if you plan to remodel or add on to your home, as you'll likely increase electrical requirements.

What Are Some Signs That Your Electrical Panel Might Be Too Small?

If you're not sure whether your panel is up to the task of supporting electricity in your home, look for some of the signs below. Any of them can be an indication that it's time to have an electrician inspect your panel.

Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips

When a breaker trips off, it means a circuit was overloaded. Breakers are designed to trip, so they cut power to that circuit as a way to reduce fire hazards or damage to outlets, wires and appliances. While the occasional breaker trip is nothing to worry about, frequent issues indicate something is wrong with your home electrical system.

If the same breaker keeps tripping, you may want to inspect that circuit specifically or note what appliances you have plugged into it. If you've got a high-draw appliance, like a microwave, plugged in with numerous other things on the same circuit, you may be causing the issue every time you heat up food. However, if different breakers keep tripping, the problem might be at the panel.

Flickering or Dim Lights or Appliances That Don't Run at Optimal Power

If your lights dim or flicker and the bulbs are fine, it might indicate there's not enough power coming to them. That's especially true if you notice lights flickering when the AC kicks on or you run the microwave. Power issues with your other appliances can indicate the same thing, and the source of these issues could be your electrical panel.

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You Don't Have Room for More Circuits

If you don't have room to add more circuits, your panel may be too small. It's a good idea to have a panel with plenty of open spots so you can add circuits as needed, and you should consider panel replacement when you see you're going to outgrow the panel you have.

Your Panel Is Hot to the Touch or You Smell Burning Near It

Your electrical panel should never feel hot when you touch it. A warm panel can be a sign that something is wrong, including poor wiring or constant overloading. If something smells like it's burning, this is a concerning sign that should be addressed immediately.

Your Panel Has an Audible Buzz

Most people are used to a bit of electrical hum in their house. Stop right now and listen; you may hear your HVAC unit, fridge or other appliances running. But your electrical panel shouldn't have a loud buzz.