Need electrical panel upgrades? Black Lion Heating, Air Conditioning & Electrical Is here for you!
Our licensed electricians can assist with any of your electrical needs for your Bellevue, WA, area home. Our team of certified experts cuts no corners—we offer top-quality electrical services and products that are safe, efficient, effective, and fully compliant with the National Electric Code (NEC).
Upgrade Electrical Panels and Increase Energy Efficiency
Did you know the average U.S. household uses 886 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)? If you have an outdated panel, upgrading can help you save money on your monthly electric bill.
How Long Do Electrical Panels Last?
The average life span for an electrical panel is anywhere from 25 to 40 years, sometimes longer. Much of the life span depends on the type of electrical panel, how well it was installed, its usage, and whether it was built for today's energy requirements.
If you are moving to a new home or renovating your current home, you should schedule an electrical inspection to determine the safety and efficiency of your electrical equipment.
Are Fuse Boxes Safe?
In the 1960s, builders stopped installing fuse boxes in homes. You should upgrade to a circuit breaker if your residence still has one. Fuse boxes aren't designed to handle modern energy requirements.
Circuit breakers are much safer—whenever there's an overcurrent or short, they automatically cut off the current. This protects you from electric shock, your equipment from getting damaged, and your home from the risk of an electrical fire.
Contact Black Lion Heating, Air Conditioning & Electrical for Electrical Panel Upgrades by calling us at (425) 814-3944 or book online now!
What Are the Signs I Need a New Electrical Panel?
There are many telltale signs that you need a new electrical panel. Remember, a defective panel is a fire hazard-call our Black Lion Heating, Air Conditioning & Electrical professionals right away if you suspect a problem. Here are some common symptoms:
- Overheating or Scorching
Is there a burning smell coming from your panel or outlets? Notice any signs of scorching? Your electrical system may be overheating or the wires may be melting. A burning smell could indicate a serious problem. Contact our electricians right away.
- Rusty Panel
Water and electricity don't mix well. If there's rust, water could be leaking onto your panel. When water gets inside your panel box, it can cause issues with the circuit breakers and poses a safety hazard. Be sure to call our licensed professionals to replace the panel.
- Breakers Keep Tripping
Do your breakers trip a lot, particularly when you run appliances that require more electricity, such as your air conditioner, heat pump, washing machine, or dryer? This could indicate you have an outdated panel that can't keep up with your electrical needs. Alternatively, it may be undersized. The standard panel size for most modern homes is 200 amps. Larger homes may require a 400 amp panel.
- Flickering Lights
Lights that flicker constantly can be a sign of an electrical panel problem. If the issue is house wide and occurs rain or shine, have our Black Lion Heating, Air Conditioning & Electrical electricians check it out immediately.
- Irregular Noises
Some noise is to be expected—a steady "hum" indicates a healthy breaker box. However, any crackling, hisses, or pops are a cause for concern. It means electricity is making contact with something that it's not supposed to and causing damage. This could also indicate loose or frayed wiring.
What Can I Expect With a Panel Upgrade?
Our Black Lion Heating, Air Conditioning & Electrical professionals can determine if a partial or complete upgrade is warranted. It's most cost-effective to replace just the panel. However, depending on your situation, you may need rewiring, a new breaker switch, or an entirely new main breaker. Schedule a free in-home consultation with your electrician today—our Washington experts can help you find the best path forward.
Why Should I Upgrade?
Upgrading is a major undertaking, which may be why many homeowners are known for putting it off. However, it's an important investment that will pay off in the long run. Upgrading your panel offers the following benefits:
- Greatly reduced risk of electrical fires
- Increased home value
- Higher efficiency and electrical output
Need Electrical Service? Call Today
Black Lion Heating, Air Conditioning & Electrical is a Bellevue, WA, area company offering expert electrical services. Need expert assistance from our licensed electricians? Call (425) 814-3944 or request service online.
Electrical Panel Upgrade FAQs
How do I know if I need an electrical panel upgrade?
Common signs include frequent breaker trips, limited available spaces, reliance on power strips, an older fuse box, or visible issues like overheating or rust. Upgrading improves safety, capacity, and compatibility with today’s appliances and EV chargers.
Why do my breakers keep tripping?
Breakers trip to prevent overheating when a circuit becomes overloaded, shorted, or experiences a ground fault. Persistent tripping may indicate undersized circuits, deteriorated wiring, or a failing breaker—issues that should be evaluated by a licensed electrician.
How long do electrical panels typically last?
Most electrical panels last 25–40 years depending on installation quality and system demand. If your panel is aging, damaged, or unable to support modern loads, a professional assessment is recommended.
Are fuse boxes safe by today’s standards?
Fuse boxes were not designed for current household loads and lack modern safety features. Upgrading to a circuit-breaker panel enhances safety, improves capacity, and reduces fire risk.
Can I upgrade my electrical panel myself?
No. Panel upgrades require permits, utility coordination, and code‑compliant installation by a licensed electrician. DIY work poses major risks including fire hazards, shock, failed inspections, and voided insurance coverage.