Assess Electrical Fire Hazards After Panel Arcing

Cost Savings

Checklist Tasks

• Shut off main power at the service disconnect to eliminate shock risk.
• Confirm all circuits are de-energized with a non-contact tester before touching anything.
• Inspect panel interior for scorched insulation or melted bus bars to spot heat damage.
• Check breakers and wiring with an infrared thermometer to detect hidden hotspots.
• Smell for burning odors near the panel to detect ongoing insulation breakdown.
• Document and photograph all visible damage for insurance and repair reference.
• Tighten terminal screws with an insulated screwdriver to address loose connections.
• Inspect for moisture or corrosion inside the panel to reduce risk of further arcing.
• Test ground and neutral bus bars for continuity to confirm a safe fault path.
• Check adjacent wall surfaces for heat marks signalling fire spread beyond the panel.
• Label compromised circuits with high-visibility tape to prevent accidental re-energizing.
• Contact a licensed electrician if structural damage or persistent heat is detected.