Having issues with your commercial electrical panel can be extremely disruptive and dangerous if not addressed promptly and properly. As a business owner, facility manager or maintenance technician, it's important to understand the common problems that can occur, how to troubleshoot them, and when to call in a licensed electrician.
Common Electrical Panel Issues
Some of the most common electrical panel problems include:
Frequent Tripping of Breakers
- This usually indicates an overload or short circuit somewhere in the system.
- Check if multiple devices are plugged into the same circuit, if any large appliances have been recently added, or if there are any signs of damaged wires.
- Try resetting the tripped breaker by switching it to off and then back on.
- If it trips again, there may be a larger underlying problem.
Flickering Lights
- Flickering lights typically signify a loose connection somewhere.
- Tighten all connections and terminals inside the panel and at lighting fixtures.
- Check for any damaged wires with exposed copper that could be arcing.
Buzzing Sound from Panel
- An electric buzzing points to an issue with the panel's internal components.
- It could be the transformer, breakers, or busbars vibrating from excess current flow.
- Call an electrician immediately to inspect and repair.
Burning Smell
- A burning odor is a serious fire hazard and should be addressed right away.
- It likely means wires are overheating somewhere due to excessive current.
- Thoroughly inspect the panel and all connected circuits for problems.
No Power to Some Circuits
- If certain circuits or areas are dead, the issue may be with individual breakers or wires supplying power to them.
- Check for any tripped breakers and reset them. If the breakers immediately trip again, there is likely a short along that circuit.
- Check connections and wires for any damage.
Troubleshooting Steps
Follow these key troubleshooting steps when electrical panel issues arise:
1. Check All Breakers
- The first step is to check for any tripped breakers in the panel and reset them.
- If certain breakers constantly trip, those circuits likely need further inspection.
2. Inspect all Connections
- Open the panel and check that all wires are securely fastened to breakers and neutral/ground busbars.
- Look for any loose, damaged or overheated connections that may be contributing to issues.
3. Check Supply Voltage
- Use a multimeter to check the voltage supplied to the panel.
- It should match your system's specifications, usually 120/240V.
- Irregular readings can indicate problems with the utility feed or transformer.
4. Look for Damage
- Examine all panel components and connected wires for signs of physical damage like nicks, abrasions, discoloration or melting.
- Damaged wires can become hazard points for arcing, overheating and short circuits.
5. Tighten All Terminals
- Use a screwdriver to tighten any loose lugs and connections at breakers, neutral and ground terminals, main shut offs and meter.
- Loose connections are a major cause of electrical faults and hazards.
6. Test Circuit Impedance
- Use a multimeter to check impedance along individual circuits.
- Abnormally low readings indicate a short somewhere along the line.
7. Check Grounding
- Verify ground connections are intact for the panel and equipment like appliances connected to it.
- Faulty grounding can lead to electrocution risks and damage.
8. Thermographic Inspection
- Use a thermal imaging camera to check for any hotspots or areas of excess heat on wires and connections.
- This can help identify problems before they lead to failure.
When to Call an Electrician
While many panel issues can be investigated by a qualified technician, it's best to call a licensed electrician for diagnosis and repairs if:
- Problems persist after troubleshooting
- You lack the expertise to work safely on the equipment
- The panel requires component replacement or re-wiring
- The issue appears beyond your technical capabilities
- Code compliance could become a factor
Electrical issues should never be put off, since they can quickly escalate into fires or other major problems if left unaddressed. Don't hesitate to call in the experts when needed!
Preventative Maintenance
Regular maintenance and inspection of your commercial electrical panel can help minimize issues proactively:
- Annually check all connections for tightness to avoid loose connections
- Inspect for any damaged wires or signs of overheating
- Check grounding connections
- Clear all debris and dust buildup around the panel
- Ensure the panel door closes properly and securely
- Address any broken knockouts which compromise the enclosed design
- Test breakers and replace any that are worn or faulty
Following safe electrical practices and arranging timely professional service calls at the first sign of trouble will keep your panel running reliably for years to come.