Signs your panel may need attention
- Breakers that trip often, or a panel with no room for new circuits
- Lights that dim when large appliances start
- A panel that is warm to the touch, buzzes, or shows rust or scorching
- Fuses, or an old panel brand you’ve been told to replace
- Plans to add an EV charger, heat pump, hot tub or home addition
Any of these is worth having looked at. If you notice a burning smell, scorching, or a panel that feels hot, turn off what you can safely and call a professional right away. For fire or smoke, call 911.
Why homeowners upgrade
Many homes still have 100-amp service or older panels. Adding an EV charger, heat pump, electric range, tankless water heater or an addition can push those systems past what they were designed to handle. A panel upgrade increases capacity and gives you space for future circuits.
Older panel brands
Some older panel brands, including Federal Pacific Stab-Lok and Zinsco, have documented reliability concerns, and some insurers ask for them to be replaced. If you have one, a licensed electrician should evaluate it.
What a panel upgrade typically involves
- Evaluate your existing service and calculate the load you need
- Pull the required permit through your local jurisdiction
- Coordinate the power shut-off and reconnection with the utility
- Install the new panel, breakers and required grounding and bonding
- Schedule the inspection and label the new panel
Every home is different. Depending on your service, an upgrade may also involve the meter base, service mast, grounding and bonding, and the utility’s disconnect and reconnect. We’ll explain the scope for your home before work begins.
Add surge protection while we’re there
A panel upgrade is a natural time to add a whole-home surge protective device.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I need a 200-amp panel?
It depends on your home’s size and what runs on it. Electric heat, an EV charger, a heat pump, a range and a dryer all add load. We can perform a load calculation and tell you what your home needs.
Will the power be off during the upgrade?
Yes. Power to your home has to be shut off while the panel is replaced. We’ll explain the process and plan the work with you and the utility beforehand.
Do panel upgrades require a permit?
Yes, in most jurisdictions a panel replacement or service upgrade requires a permit and an inspection.