Main Service Panel Upgrade: Why It Matters and How the Process Works
A main service panel upgrade is essential for many homeowners, especially with the increasing demand for modern appliances, home automation, and electric vehicles. If your home’s electrical system is outdated or you're planning significant upgrades, this service can ensure your electrical infrastructure is safe, efficient, and compliant with local codes.
Why Upgrade Your Main Service Panel?
The main service panel is the heart of your home's electrical system. It distributes electricity from the utility company to the various circuits in your home. Over time, older panels may struggle to handle the increased load from today's electronics and appliances. Here are a few reasons why upgrading your panel is necessary:
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Capacity Issues: If your current panel is rated at 100 amps but your home’s electrical needs exceed that, upgrading to a 200-amp or higher panel prevents overloading and tripping breakers.
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Safety Concerns: Outdated panels, especially those over 20-30 years old, may have faulty components, posing a fire hazard.
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Future-Proofing: As you add electric vehicle chargers, home offices, or new appliances, a service panel upgrade provides the power capacity for future needs.
The Main Service Panel Upgrade Process
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Initial Assessment The first step in upgrading your service panel is a thorough inspection by a licensed electrician. They will assess your current panel’s capacity, the overall condition of your home’s wiring, and any electrical code violations that may need addressing. This step helps determine the size of the upgrade needed, typically from 100 to 200 amps or higher, depending on your home’s power demands.
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Planning and Permits Once the assessment is complete, your electrician will develop a plan for the upgrade. This includes securing the necessary permits from local authorities. Electrical work must meet safety standards, and a permit ensures that the installation will be inspected and compliant with regulations.
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Shutting Off Power On the day of the upgrade, the utility company must temporarily disconnect the power supply to your home. This ensures the electrician can work safely while replacing or upgrading the panel.
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Panel Installation During the installation process, the old panel is removed, and the new panel is installed. This involves disconnecting all circuits, securing the new panel, and reconnecting everything to ensure proper functionality. The electrician will also inspect the grounding and bonding to ensure the entire system is up to code.
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Circuit Testing After installation, each circuit is tested to ensure it’s receiving the correct power and functioning properly. This includes testing newly installed breakers and ensuring that everything is properly labeled for future reference.
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Final Inspection After the upgrade, a certified inspector from your local building department will review the work to ensure everything complies with local codes. Once approved, the utility company reconnects the power.
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Completion and Maintenance Tips With the power restored, your upgraded main service panel will now be able to handle your home's current and future electrical needs. It’s also important to schedule regular maintenance checks with your electrician to ensure the longevity and safety of your panel.
Why Hire a Professional?
Upgrading a main service panel is a complex and potentially hazardous task that should always be performed by a licensed electrician. They have the skills and tools to handle the installation safely, ensuring compliance with local codes and avoiding future electrical problems.
At Arsen Electric, we have years of experience performing main service panel upgrades in the Bay Area. Our team ensures a smooth, safe upgrade process, giving you peace of mind and the electrical capacity your home needs. Contact us today to schedule an assessment!
