Electric Panel Upgrade
What is an Electrical Panel?
An electrical panel—also known as a breaker box, load center, or distribution board—is the central hub of your home's electrical system. It receives power from the utility company and distributes electricity to various circuits throughout your home. Each circuit is protected by a breaker or fuse that will shut off the flow of electricity if there's an overload or fault, helping keep your home safe and your system running efficiently.
Do I Need to Upgrade My Electrical Panel?
In many cases, the answer is yes. Homeowners often assume that the electrical panel will last as long as the house itself, but that’s not always true. Over time, connections can loosen, components may corrode—especially in damp environments—and dust buildup can reduce efficiency. Most panels have a lifespan of 25–40 years, and if yours is older or showing signs of trouble, it might be time to consider an upgrade.
Here are key reasons to consider replacing or repairing your electrical panel:
Your home is over 20 years old and still operates on 60–100 amps (modern homes require up to 200 amps to support today's appliances).
The panel feels warm or hot to the touch, which may signal overloading or a faulty installation.
You notice a burning smell coming from the panel—this could indicate wiring issues or internal damage.
Circuit breakers frequently trip, suggesting the panel may be struggling to handle the current load.
Lights flicker when using appliances or large electronics, which can mean loose connections or insufficient power.
You're adding new appliances or upgrading your HVAC, kitchen, or laundry systems—your panel needs to be able to handle the increased demand.
Who Should Replace an Electrical Panel?
Replacing an electrical panel is not a DIY job. It’s essential to hire a licensed, experienced electrician to ensure everything is up to code and safely installed. At Dement Electrical Services, our licensed professionals are trained to handle panel upgrades, repairs, and installations for both residential and commercial properties throughout the region.
Lifespan of an Electrical Panel
Most electrical panels are built to last between 25 and 40 years. However, factors like moisture, dust, and outdated wiring can shorten that lifespan. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can extend the life of your panel, but if it’s past its prime or showing signs of failure, an upgrade is highly recommended to keep your home safe and your power running reliably.
How Much Does It Cost to Upgrade a Panel?
The cost of upgrading your panel depends on several factors, including:
The scope of the project – Replacing an outdated panel versus installing an additional subpanel will have different costs.
Site conditions – The current state of your existing system and accessibility may affect labor and material needs.
At Dement Electrical Services, we’re proud to offer competitive, transparent pricing and exceptional service.