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Common warning signs of an overloaded electrical panel or meter box include frequent circuit breaker tripping, flickering or dimming lights, scorch or burn marks, and a burning scent coming from the panel. A circuit breaker trips as a protective measure to prevent overheating and potential fires. If you observe any of these signs, turn off the affected circuit breaker and move some devices to a different circuit. If the problem persists after turning the breaker back on, you should contact a professional electrician to resolve the issue.

An electrician will charge between $100 to $150 to install a new light switch. Whether you need to cut into the wall and repair drywall will determine your final project cost, as you can expect to pay $50 to $75 per square foot to repair drywall.

If your outlet is testing fine but keeps tripping, that’s a sign your GFCI outlet is working, but there’s a problem somewhere else. Try plugging in different devices and see if the outlet keeps tripping. If it’s not the appliance that’s causing the issue, it could be a problem in your wiring. Faulty wiring can be a source of electrical fires and other serious problems. We recommend arranging an inspection by an electrician if an outlet appears to be working but keeps tripping.

How often you’ll replace your electric meter depends on what type of meter you have in your home. Induction meters can last around 10 years, while static meters will typically last around 20. If you’re unsure which kind of meter you have, a call to your electric company can help ease your mind.