Expert Circuit Breaker Services
You can’t have a working electrical system without a working electrical panel. This component is responsible for controlling how electricity flows to each of your outlets through the wires in your walls. When overloaded, the circuit will shut off to protect your electronics from damage. You may also hear the electrical panel referred to as a circuit breaker, since it houses all the circuits for your home’s electrical system. Whatever it’s called, Blaze Heating, Cooling, Electrical & Plumbing can install and fix it.
Contact Blaze for electrical panel repair or full electrical panel replacement in Wilmington, NC, and beyond. Our company has been around since 1979, and we’ve earned a reputation for hiring the most reliable and qualified electricians in the area. Fill out our online form or give us a call to get in touch today.
Electrical Panel Repair Vs. Electrical Panel Replacement
If you’re having trouble with your electrical panel you may not be certain if you need it replaced or if you can get away with circuit breaker repair. We’ve listed out a few examples of which service we likely recommend for each situation, but it’s best if you consult with a member of our team to help you make the final decision.
When To Get Circuit Breaker Repair
Here are some situations that are considered minor may just warrant a repair service:
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- Loose wiring
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- Faulty breaker
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- Corrosion
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- Single broken component
When To Get Circuit Breaker Replacement
There are times where electrical panel repair isn’t enough, and you need to opt for full circuit breaker replacement. Here are some of those scenarios:
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- Circuit breaker older than 25 years
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- More electrical capacity needed
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- Outdated fuse panel
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- Extensive damage
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- Flickering or dimming lights
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- Constant circuit breaker tripping
Hopefully this helps clear up when you might need to invest in an electrical panel upgrade for your home versus when it’s okay to get your current circuit breaker fixed. You can call us at Blaze for either repairs or replacements.
Benefits of Electrical Panel Upgrade
Investing in a new electrical panel comes with its own perks. While there is an upfront cost to getting an electrical panel upgrade, you’ll also reap the benefits that come along with newer, better technology.
Less Risk of Fire or Shock
Newer electrical panels are much safer. The older your electrical panel, the more likely it is to malfunction and shock you or even start a fire in your home. Taking the step to schedule electrical panel replacement in Wilmington, NC, could protect your own safety as well as prevent damage to your home.
Better Energy Efficiency
Whether you’re worried about the environment, your utility bill costs, or both, a newer, more energy efficient electrical panel will cut down on energy consumption in your home and therefore reduce your energy bills.
More Energy Capacity
When you get an electrical panel upgrade, our electricians will talk to you about your energy needs. We’ll be able to install a circuit breaker that can handle more energy usage, so you’ll have to worry less about blowing your circuits and having to go down to the breaker to restart them.
Code Compliance
If you want to get a renovation done or you want to sell your house, it’s important that your home’s electrical system is entirely up to code. This includes your electrical panel. Having an experienced electrician like those at Blaze install your new electrical panel will ensure that you don’t run into any issues or delays due to lack of compliance.
Hire Blaze for Circuit Breakers
The next time you need electrical replacement or electrical panel repair in Wilmington, NC, reach out to Blaze Heating, Cooling, Electrical & Plumbing. We’ll talk you through your options and work with you to schedule an appointment for the right service for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does breaker replacement cost in Wilmington?
It depends, but it can usually cost anywhere from $140 to $500 for a standard job. Again, it depends on what needs doing; a single standard repair is lower, while something more in-depth (GFCI or AFCI breaker repair, replacing the main breaker), is much more. Call the team at Blaze and we can walk you through prices.
Why are Zinsco and Federal Pacific panels dangerous?
These two older panels share a fatal flaw: they often fail to trip, which is the main benefit of a circuit breaker in the first place. Both Zinsco and FPE panels keep the electricity flowing, even when it’s way too dangerous to do so.
FPE panels were the norm from the ‘50s to the ‘80s, and with independent testing, failed to trip 60% to 80% of the time. Zinsco panels, popular from the ‘30s to the ‘70s, deal with material wear and tear; they have quickly corroding aluminum parts that overheat in no time, actually making the breaker melt into the circuit box structure. Blaze will help you replace your Zinsco and Federal Pacific panels in Wilmington, NC, ASAP.
Does salt air really damage electrical panels?
Yes, absolutely. It’s actually one of the biggest hazards here on the coast. Microscopic salt particles float inland on ocean breeze and land on your electrical panel, essentially creating a salty film that burns on through your electrical components. Sometimes, the small parts inside your panel can wear away, making it unable to shut off the power, meaning it’s a huge hazard.