Lights Flickering or Breakers Tripping? Your Panel Might Be to Blame

In this brief article brought to you by Mr. Electric, we shed light on the connection between flickering lights and the circuit breakers. If you’d rather have a certified electrician investigate, then contact Mr. Electric to hire a local pro.

Understanding the Connection

The electrical panel is like the distribution hub for all power in a home. Electricity comes from the utility lines and into the electrical panel. Then, the power is sent to the many electrical circuits in the building.

When everything works properly, power flows safely and smoothly. But when the panel starts failing, you’ll notice odd symptoms appear throughout the house. Flickering lights are often the first sign that an electrical panel is struggling to keep up with demand.

If the panel can't deliver that power steadily, then the voltage fluctuates. Those fluctuations manifest as flickering lights. When things get serious, the circuit breaker will trip OFF. And that’s how it should be. But if the breakers are constantly tripping, then you’ve got a red flag to address.

Why Panels Can't Keep Up

Several factors can cause electrical panels to struggle with modern power demands. The most common issue is simple age. Most electrical panels are designed to last 25-40 years, but the technology inside becomes outdated long before the box itself wears out.

For instance, circuit breakers weaken over time. As they become overly sensitive, they’re likely to trip at lower and lower thresholds than they should. Moreover, connections loosen as metal expands and contracts with temperature changes over the years. These issues create resistance and inconsistent power flow.

Even if a panel isn't from the last millennium, it might simply be undersized for current needs. Many older homes have 100-amp or even 60-amp panels. That was plenty when homes had fewer electrical devices. But modern households easily need 200 amps or more to run everything from computers, smart TVs, and gaming systems to multiple phone chargers, security systems, and energy-hungry appliances.

Sometimes, the problem is with the installation. If connections weren't made properly or if incompatible breakers were installed, then even a brand-new panel could fail you.

Why This Matters

Flickering lights and tripping breakers aren't just annoying; they're warning signs of potential danger. Uneven and inconsistent power distribution can generate excess heat. That heat damages components, melts insulation, and creates fire hazards.

Frequent breaker trips also put stress on electronics and appliances. Sudden power interruptions can damage sensitive electronics like computers, televisions, and smart home devices.

Beyond the safety concerns and equipment damage, there's also the daily frustration. Losing power in the middle of cooking dinner or having home office computers shut down unexpectedly can throw a wrench in your routine.

Get a Professional Assessment

There’s no reason to jump to drastic conclusions. In many cases, a simple electrical repair can put an end to those flickering lights and tripping breakers. This might include replacing worn-out circuit breakers, tightening loose connections, cleaning corroded bus bars, or rewiring faulty circuits.

For homes with undersized panels, upgrading to a higher-capacity panel solves the problem completely. An electrical panel replacement doesn’t just address TODAY’s problems; it also provides plenty of headroom for adding new appliances, installing electric vehicle chargers, or expanding the home without worrying about overloading the system.

Ready to consult with a certified electrician in Conroe, TX? Call or message Mr. Electric to get in touch with a member of our team today.