Most Maryland, Virginia, and DC homeowners pay little attention to their main electrical circuit panel until something goes wrong, such as a tripped circuit breaker. However, when the areas around your outlets have darkened and/or heat is coming off of your main circuit box, these can be indications that something is wrong with your wiring system even if the circuit breaker doesn’t trip.
Since there are more than 370,000 house fires in the U.S. each year, causing around 15,000 deaths and injuries, paying attention to your electrical panel is more than just a good idea; it’s essential. Catching issues like a hot circuit breaker early can not only help to keep you and your family safe, but can keep the cost of fixing the problem in check and prevent property damage.
Common Reasons for a Hot Circuit Breaker
There are a number of things that can cause your circuit breaker to give off heat. Some of the more common include:
- Older wiring. Even homes built in the 1970s and 1980s can have wiring that’s insufficient to handle the demands of modern living.
- An overloaded circuit. If the electrical demand on your circuit is too large, it can cause the circuit to generate heat. This can be the result of insufficient outlets (and using extension cords) or using multiple, newer appliances and/or electronics that require more energy than many home wiring systems were designed to provide.
- Loose connections. Another reason for a hot circuit breaker is electrical connections that have loosened over time. This is an easy thing for a qualified, licensed electrician to fix.
Electrical work is too dangerous to work on yourself. It’s important to hire a licensed electrician to make sure your wiring is handled properly and safely.
Kolb Electric Can Repair or Replace Your Hot Circuit Breaker in MD, VA, or DC
Kolb Electric has the experienced, licensed electricians you need to keep your home and your family safe. If you have questions or concerns about a hot circuit breaker or other wiring issue in your home, call us for an evaluation. Our staff has experience in a variety of home wiring projects, from re-wiring an entire home to fixing loose electrical connections. We’ve been helping Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Washington, DC area homeowners with their electrical needs since 1925. Call us at 877 287-1179 to schedule an appointment today.
