For many homeowners, the electrical panel is something that’s rarely thought about until a problem arises. However, as homes add more appliances, technology, and energy demands, an outdated electrical panel can quickly become a safety concern. If you’ve been told your home needs a panel upgrade, understanding what the process involves can help you feel confident and prepared.
At Phase Electric, we believe transparency is just as important as technical expertise. Here’s what you can expect during a residential electrical panel upgrade and why this improvement is often one of the most valuable investments you can make in your home.
Why Electrical Panel Upgrades Are So Important
Your electrical panel distributes power throughout your home and protects your system from overloads. Older panels were not designed to handle modern electrical usage, which includes multiple large appliances, home offices, smart devices, and electric vehicle chargers. As a result, many older homes experience frequent breaker trips, dimming or flickering lights, or the inability to add new circuits.
In some cases, panels may also be outdated or unsafe. Older fuse boxes and certain panel brands no longer meet today’s safety standards and can increase the risk of electrical fires. A panel upgrade improves reliability, reduces safety hazards, and ensures your home complies with current electrical codes.
The Initial Assessment and Planning Process
Every panel upgrade begins with a detailed evaluation. A licensed electrician from Phase Electric will inspect your existing electrical panel, wiring, grounding system, and overall power usage. This allows us to determine whether your current service is undersized and what capacity your home actually needs.
During this stage, we also discuss your future plans. If you’re considering a home addition, new HVAC equipment, solar panels, or an EV charger, those needs are factored into the design of the new panel. Proper planning ensures that your upgraded system won’t just solve today’s problems but will support your home for years to come.
Permits, Codes, and Scheduling
Because an electrical panel is a critical safety component, upgrades require permits and inspections. These requirements protect homeowners by ensuring all work meets local and national electrical codes.
Once permits are approved, we schedule the upgrade at a time that minimizes disruption. Homeowners are informed ahead of time about what to expect, including how long power will be shut off during the installation.
What Happens on Installation Day
On the day of the upgrade, your power will need to be temporarily shut off. This outage is typically limited to several hours and is often coordinated with the utility company when necessary. Our electricians arrive fully prepared to complete the work efficiently and safely.
The old panel is carefully removed, and the new panel is installed in its place. Existing circuits are transferred to new, modern breakers, and everything is clearly labeled for easy identification. If grounding or bonding upgrades are required to meet current code standards, those improvements are completed at the same time. Throughout the process, safety remains the top priority.
Inspection and Power Restoration
After the installation is complete, a local electrical inspector reviews the work to ensure it complies with all applicable codes. Once the panel passes inspection, power is restored to your home. Before leaving, the Phase Electric team verifies that all circuits are functioning properly and answers any questions you may have about your new system.
This final step provides peace of mind, knowing your home’s electrical system has been professionally upgraded and approved.
How Long a Panel Upgrade Takes
In most cases, the physical panel replacement is completed in a single day. The overall timeline may extend slightly depending on permit approval and inspection scheduling. Homes with older wiring or additional required upgrades may take longer, but these details are always discussed upfront so there are no surprises.
Understanding the Cost of a Panel Upgrade
The cost of a residential electrical panel upgrade varies based on several factors, including the size of the new panel, the condition of existing wiring, and any additional code-related improvements that may be required. While it is an investment, a panel upgrade significantly increases safety, supports modern electrical demands, and can add value to your home.
Many homeowners also find that upgrading their panel prevents future electrical issues and makes future projects easier and more affordable.
Why Homeowners Trust Phase Electric
At Phase Electric, we approach every electrical panel upgrade with care, precision, and clear communication. Our licensed and insured electricians ensure the work is done correctly, safely, and in full compliance with current codes. We take pride in delivering upgrades that homeowners can rely on for decades.
If you’re experiencing electrical issues or planning future improvements, a panel upgrade may be the right solution.
Ready to Get Started?
If you think your home may benefit from an electrical panel upgrade, contact Phase Electric today to schedule a professional evaluation. We’ll guide you through the process and help ensure your home’s electrical system is safe, reliable, and ready for whatever comes next.
