Normal vs. Dangerous Temperature
| Condition | Temperature | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Slightly warm under load | Normal | Monitor |
| Warm when circuit is off | Investigate | Call electrician |
| Hot to the touch | Dangerous | Call immediately |
| Panel door warm | Emergency | Call immediately |
Why Breakers Get Hot
Normal Warmth
Breakers carry current, and current through resistance generates heat. A breaker running near its rated capacity will feel warm — this is normal physics.
Dangerous Heat — Warning Signs
- Loose connections: A loose wire at the breaker terminal creates resistance, which creates heat. This is the most common cause of dangerous panel heat.
- Overloaded circuit: A circuit consistently running at or above its rated amperage will overheat the breaker over time.
- Failing breaker: Breakers can develop internal faults that cause them to run hot even under normal loads.
- Corroded bus bar: In Florida's coastal environment, salt air can corrode the panel's internal bus bars, increasing resistance and heat.
The Thermal Imaging Difference
Ocean Wire Electric uses thermal imaging cameras to see heat that is invisible to the naked eye. We can identify hot spots inside your panel before they cause a fire — without opening every breaker or disturbing your wiring.
A Hot Panel Is a Fire Waiting to Happen
Schedule a thermal inspection today with Ocean Wire Electric.
Schedule Inspection