The electric control panels are used in homes as well as industries and come in different configurations, sizes and specifications to suit the application. In homes, they can be referred to as the “breaker box”. Here the panel will connect the incoming mains power to the different electrical circuits that may run in a house. The safety devices like the circuit breakers for instances like overcurrent are also located in the panel. In industries, the panels provided by a certified control panel manufacturer may be used or controlling the production systems like the cranes, pressers or the conveyors, among other large machines. They may also control the environmental systems like the HVAC units and lighting, and the plumbing systems.

The state of an electrical control panel needs to be carefully evaluated to know whether it needs to be replaced or repaired. Here are some ways through which you can know what should be the best course of the path for you. 

Inspect the Service Cables

The utility company is responsible for ensuring the safety of the cables that run from the pole to a house or industrial facility. But it is your responsibility to ensure that the SEC or the Service Entrance Cable is in good shape. The cable grouping may lie between the panel and the mount. These cables may be worn or get loose. The clamps and/or the insulation may get damaged as well. In these instances, the repair is required.

Inspect Wiring

Careless and faulty use of wiring and installation need a repair. Common problems include haphazard wiring arrangement, use of over/undersized breakers, use of 2 circuits in a single-pole breaker and others. 

Check Moisture Accumulation

Moisture and electricity are a deadly combination and cause fatal accidents. Water may reach inside the panel due to a water leak or some issue with drainage. If you suspect any such scenario, move away from the panel and call for expert help. If there has been rusting and the panel conditions are now beyond repair, a replacement may be required. 

Compliance

Compliance may be necessary, especially for the industries. The panels used should comply with the standards laid by the National Electric Code (NEC). Your units should provide for proper system diagrams and part labels. The replacement may be necessary to ensure compliance in some cases.

Poor Quality

Sometimes the control panels are made using poor quality materials. Problems like the failure of breakers to work trip when they should or material that gets easily damaged are common. You may go for multiple opinions to know whether your panel needs a replacement. But when an improper selection has been made at the start itself, the recurrent problems can only be corrected through a replacement.

 You may even want to upgrade to a new 200-amp panel, which is the new standard. These panels also have more space and provide for suitable placement of components while making tasks like repair and maintenance more convenient. Consult a leading and reputed supplier or control panel manufacturer for purchasing the best-customized panel that fulfills all the compliance and safety aspects while also providing for best safety and efficiency.