Electrical panels are responsible for regulating all the electricity in your home. Breakers within the panel serve to prevent electrical overload, ensuring the safety of your electrical system. However, working with these panels requires precision and knowledge to ensure proper function. The following mistakes in installation and repair can lead to costly electrical issues.

1. Incorrect Wiring

Incorrect wiring can lead to safety hazards such as fire and electrical shocks. This often happens when the wrong wire gauge is used or when the electrical panel is too small to handle the amount of electricity it receives, causing the breaker to trip frequently. It is crucial to match the correct wire size to each circuit to prevent potential dangers. It’s also important to avoid mixing wire gauges within the same circuit to maintain the integrity and safety of the electrical system.

2. Loose Wiring

Loose wiring is a prevalent issue often observed in electrical panels. This can result from wires being incorrectly sized or not firmly connected. If you notice flickering lights, it’s crucial to ensure that all connections are properly grounded and securely fastened. Neglecting this step can lead to various electrical hazards, including fires.

3. Placement Errors and Overcrowding

It is crucial to install the electrical panel in a dry and easily accessible location. The wiring should be well organized, easy to trace, and not overcrowded. To prevent moisture issues, make sure the cables are not exposed. Adequate clearance around the panel is necessary for inspections and maintenance. Overcrowding the wires can create fire hazards and make it difficult to identify wire connections.

4. Failure to Label

While labeling may appear insignificant, it actually plays a crucial role in enabling quick troubleshooting in the future. Incorrect or missing labels can hinder the identification of the necessary breaker when conducting maintenance or repairs on the electrical system.

5. DIY Without Experience

If you are not an electrician, you should never attempt to do any work on your electrical panel. Electricity can be extremely dangerous and should be handled by licensed professionals. Even a minor mistake can result in fires or personal injury. Professional electricians are trained to ensure safety and accuracy, making it essential to rely on their expertise for any electrical projects, especially those involving your electrical panel.

Trust the Experts for Panel Repair and Installation

Your electrical panel is one of the most important components of your home’s electrical system. Avoiding common mistakes will ensure that your panel serves its dual role of preventing overloads and ensuring the safe distribution of electricity to the outlets and fixtures throughout your home. Turning to a professional electrician for electrical panel repairs and installation will prevent any costly and potentially dangerous mistakes. If you live in Reno, NV or the surrounding area, reach out to Burnett Electric for all your electrical panel services.