Panel Upgrade FAQ: common questions
A panel upgrade is one of the most common jobs we do, and it comes with a predictable set of questions. Here are the ones we hear most, answered straight.
What is the panel upgrade process?
Here is exactly how it goes:
- Send your photos. Fill out our free panel upgrade assessment with photos of your meter and panel.
- Get your estimate. We send you a written estimate based on your photos.
- Approve the estimate. Review it and approve when you're ready.
- Place your deposit. A deposit locks in your spot on the schedule.
- Permit & inspection. We request and pull the permit, and the inspection is set for the same day as the work.
- Schedule the power cut. Together with you, we schedule the utility disconnect and reconnect — a 2–4 hour window in the morning.
- Old panel out, new panel in. Once the power is disconnected, our crew removes the old panel and assembles and wires the new one.
- Inspection & power on. The inspector comes at the end of the day. Once the job is approved, the power company is notified to restore power.
- Final payment & review. We send the final amount owed. If you're happy with the work, we'd appreciate a 5-star Google review.
How do you estimate a panel upgrade?
Panel upgrade pricing depends on a few factors. The main ones are the number of breakers on the panel and the panel's location.
How long does a panel upgrade take?
A typical 200-amp panel in a single-family home has an average of 24 breakers. We usually start early in the morning and finish by early afternoon. It's generally a two-person job that takes about 6 hours.
Will I have electricity in the house while the panel is being upgraded?
No. The power is turned off during the work and turned back on once the job is complete.
Does a panel upgrade require a permit?
Yes. It requires a permit and an inspection after the job is completed. We handle both as part of our service.