How to Stop Electrical Panel Corrosion
When it comes to corrosion on electrical panels and electrical connections, prevention is much easier than repair. Any amount of corrosion on electrical circuitry can cause malfunctions, excessive resistance, or complete electrical failure. There are many measures anyone can take to prevent, and stop, electrical panel corrosion. Dielectric grease is a common method. Dielectric grease is a form of grease that conducts electricity while keeping out moisture, thereby not causing any extra resistance in electrical circuitry.
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Open the electrical panel cover and flip the main electrical breaker to the "OFF" position. This is the breaker separate from the others at the very top of the electrical panel. This will cut power to all the wires inside the panel, making it much safer to work inside it.
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Remove the inner cover. There will be six to eight screws around the edge of the panel holding the inner cover in place.
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Loosen each screw holding the wires to the breakers, one at a time. Never have more than one screw loose, or more than one wire exposed, at a time.
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Apply some dielectric grease to the exposed end of each wire. This prevents moisture from corroding the connection without hindering the conductivity.
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Replace each wire in its circuit breaker and tighten the screw. Tug on each wire after you tighten them in place to ensure they are secure.
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Seal the perimeter of the panel housing. This is done with silicone caulk approved for use in damp places. Apply the caulk along all the inside perimeter of the box. This will prevent moisture from entering the box.
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Reinstall the inner cover using the same screws you removed earlier. Flip the main breaker switch back to the "ON" position.
Writer Bio
Anastasia Blackwood has been writing for publication since 2000. Her poetry first appeared in “Sidetracks” magazine in 2000. In 2010, Blackwood was published in "Southern Steel" magazine—a small publication for motorcycle enthusiasts. Blackwood is currently working towards her bachelor's degree in journalism at Central Connecticut State University.
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