Your electrical panel is the heartbeat of your home’s electrical system. Every light, outlet, and appliance relies on it to distribute electricity safely and efficiently. But like any other system in your home, it can wear out, get overloaded, or become outdated—leading to safety risks and performance issues.
We specialize in electrical panel inspections to help homeowners stay ahead of potential hazards. Whether you’re noticing unusual signs or just want peace of mind, we’re here to walk you through what to look for and when to call in the pros.
Why Your Electrical Panel Deserves Attention
The electrical panel (also called a breaker box or load center) is responsible for managing the flow of electricity throughout your home. When something goes wrong, like a circuit overload or faulty breaker, it can result in power loss, equipment damage, or worse, an electrical fire.
Regular inspections ensure your panel is up to code, operating safely, and able to handle the electrical load of your household. They’re especially important if your home is older, you’ve added new appliances, or you’re experiencing warning signs that something’s not right.
Signs You May Need an Electrical Panel Inspection
Not sure if it’s time for an inspection? Here are some of the most common red flags we tell homeowners to watch for:
- Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips: If your breakers trip often, it could be a sign that your panel is overloaded or there’s a short circuit in your wiring.
- Flickering or Dimming Lights: Especially when using appliances like microwaves, vacuums, or space heaters. This could indicate voltage issues or loose connections.
- Buzzing or Crackling Noises: These sounds should never come from your breaker box. They could be a sign of arcing or damaged wiring.
- Burning Smell or Scorch Marks: Any sign of heat, discoloration, or burnt odor coming from the panel requires immediate attention.
- Outdated Equipment: Homes with fuse boxes, Zinsco, or Federal Pacific panels (known safety hazards) should be upgraded as soon as possible.
- Overreliance on Extension Cords: If you’re using multiple cords or power strips, your panel may not be providing enough circuits for your lifestyle.
These symptoms often point to underlying issues that can’t be solved with a quick DIY fix. If you’re experiencing any of the above, it’s time to schedule a professional inspection.
What to Expect During an Electrical Panel Inspection
When you call Liberty Comfort Systems for a panel inspection, our licensed electricians conduct a thorough evaluation to ensure your system is safe, compliant, and running at peak performance.
Here’s what we typically assess:
- Visual Examination: We check the panel for obvious signs of damage, rust, water intrusion, or wear.
- Breaker Testing: Each breaker is tested to ensure it trips correctly under load and resets properly.
- Load Analysis: We evaluate whether your current panel can handle your home’s electrical demands—or if it’s time to upgrade.
- Wiring Inspection: Loose, double-tapped, or overheated wires can cause serious problems. We check every connection for safety and compliance.
- Grounding and Bonding: Proper grounding and bonding are crucial for protection during surges and electrical faults.
- Code Compliance Check: We ensure your system meets local and national electrical codes. If it doesn’t, we’ll recommend the right solutions.
We’ll also provide a detailed report of our findings, explain any concerns, and offer repair or upgrade options based on your home’s needs and budget.
When Should I Schedule a Panel Inspection?
A panel inspection isn’t just for when something goes wrong, it’s a smart preventative measure. Here are common scenarios when scheduling an inspection is a good idea:
- Before Buying or Selling a Home: Ensure the panel is up to code and safe for future occupants.
- During Home Renovations: Adding a new room, kitchen, or HVAC system? Your panel may need a capacity upgrade.
- After Storm or Water Damage: Moisture and electrical systems don’t mix. Always check for hidden damage.
- If Your Home Is 25+ Years Old: Older panels may not support today’s power demands or be built to current safety standards.
- When You Add New Appliances: High-powered items like EV chargers, hot tubs, and new HVAC units may require more power than your panel can handle.
Even without obvious issues, we recommend a general inspection every 5–10 years to make sure everything is functioning properly.
Why Choose Liberty Comfort Systems for Electrical Panel Inspections?
At Liberty Comfort Systems, your safety is our top priority. We offer trusted, reliable electrical services backed by licensed professionals and years of hands-on experience.
Here’s why homeowners count on us:
- Certified Electricians: Our technicians are fully licensed and trained in residential electrical systems.
- Upfront, Honest Pricing: We explain everything clearly, no surprises, no pressure, just honest recommendations.
- Code-Compliant Work: We stay up-to-date on local electrical codes and requirements so your home is always protected.
- Responsive, Friendly Service: We respect your time and your home. Expect prompt arrivals, clean workspaces, and courteous professionals.
Whether you’re concerned about a specific issue or just want to be proactive, we’re here to help you protect your home and your family.
FAQs About Electrical Panel Inspections
How long does an electrical panel inspection take?
Most inspections take between 45 minutes and 2 hours depending on the size of the panel and the complexity of the system.
Can I inspect my electrical panel myself?
While you can open the panel door and visually check for tripped breakers, we don’t recommend touching any wiring or removing the panel cover. Electrical systems carry serious shock risks if handled improperly.
What happens if my panel fails inspection?
We’ll walk you through your options. In many cases, issues can be repaired on the spot. If a panel replacement is needed, we’ll explain the process, costs, and timeline in detail.
How much does an electrical panel inspection cost?
The cost varies based on your home’s size and age, but most inspections are affordable, especially when you consider the cost of avoiding a major electrical hazard. Contact Liberty Comfort Systems for a free quote.
Schedule Your Electrical Panel Inspection Today
Don’t wait for a small issue to turn into a major problem. If you’re seeing warning signs, or just want peace of mind, schedule a professional electrical panel inspection with Liberty Comfort Systems.
We’ll make sure your system is safe, efficient, and ready to handle your home’s electrical needs. Call us today or book online to get started!
