One of the biggest electrical issues in Singapore is that your electrical panel is outdated. Your home runs on electricity. It powers your lights, fans, fridge, and more. At the center of all this is your electrical panel. It is also called a distribution board. This panel sends power to different parts of your home.
If it is outdated, it will not handle your power needs. Fires and shocks can happen if you do not check it in time. In Singapore, safety is of utmost importance. This article will help you know if your panel is too old and needs to be changed.
What is an Electrical Panel?
An electrical panel is a metal box. It holds the breakers that control power to the home. When you turn on the lights, power flows from the panel. If there is a problem, the breaker trips and stops the power. This keeps you safe. However, if the panel is old, it will not function properly. It may trip up often and fail to prevent faults.
How to Know if Your Electrical Panel is Outdated in Singapore?
An outdated electrical panel can be a headache that causes several problems. LS Electrician Singapore explains the process to know if your home electrical panel is outdated. Note that they also provide electrical switch installation, house rewiring, and power failure troubleshooting services in Singapore.
Your Panel is More Than 20 Years Old
Most panels last about 20 years. After that, they may not be safe. Old panels do not support new devices. Many homes now have aircon, water heaters, and smart items. These use more power.
Your electrical panel is outdated if it is more than 20 years old. An outdated electrical panel cannot handle the enhanced load. Look for a date on the panel. If it is older than 20 years, it’s time to inspect it.
You Have Frequent Power Trips
If you often take power trips, it is not necessarily due to your devices. The panel will not be able to handle the load. Old breakers also fail to reset. In some cases, the trip happens for no reason. This shows the panel is weak. A new panel will stop these problems and give a smooth power flow.
You Smell Burnt Plastic Near the Panel
If there is a smell like burnt plastic near the panel, it is a warning. This indicates that wires or breakers are overheating. This can lead to fire. Therefore, it is essential to call a licensed electrician at once. This is one of the top signs of danger. An old panel normally shuts down during a fault. This puts the whole home at risk.
You See Rust or Water Marks
In Singapore, the weather can be wet and humid. If water gets into the panel, it can cause rust. Rust on the metal parts is not safe. It can stop the breakers from working. Watermarks on the wall near the panel are also a red flag. If you see these signs, get the panel checked.
Lights Flicker Often
Flickering lights are not always due to the bulb. If many lights flicker in the home, the panel is weak. It does not give steady power and puts stress on your devices. A strong panel provides clean and constant power. It helps your lights and devices work well.
Do You Still Use a Fuse Box?
Some old homes in Singapore still have fuse boxes. These are not the same as modern panels. A fuse melts during a fault, but it must be replaced by hand. Breakers, on the other hand, can be reset. If you still use fuses, it is time to upgrade. New panels are safer and easier to use.
You Hear Buzzing Sounds
An electrical panel should be quiet. If you hear buzzing and crackling sounds, something is wrong. It means a loose wire or a failing breaker. Sound is one of the early signs of a fault. Do not ignore it. Buzzing indicates that the panel is not functioning properly.
Why You Should Upgrade
An old panel will give power. But it does not do so in a safe way. New panels have better parts. They also come with safety switches. These can cut off power in the event of a fault. A new panel also gives room for more power points. This is useful when you renovate or add new items.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if your electrical panel is outdated, it can cause several safety risks in your home. Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s power. Look for signs like trips, smells, sounds, or flickering lights.
Check if your panel is older than 20 years. An upgrade can protect your family and your home. Always follow the rules in Singapore. Hire trained workers and stay safe.