5 Reasons to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel

Your Ooltewah, home may need more power as you upgrade HVAC equipment, add new kitchen appliances, or install a home EV charger. 

Are you sure your home can handle the influx of electricity-powered devices? If not, it is time to consider upgrading your electrical panel.

Home electrification is just one reason to improve your electrical panel, the heart of your home’s electrical system. However, it is an essential step when moving your household away from fossil fuels to cleaner energy.

Choosing a Professional Electrician

At Eldridge Service Co., our licensed electricians in Ooltewah, can upgrade your breaker panel to help you incorporate more electricity-powered devices in your home or business.

Our experts are bonded and insured and have many years of experience providing electrical services to homes and commercial properties. No job is too big or too small. We are equally adept at installing electrical outlets as we are at wiring your entire house or business. 

Let our Eldridge Service Co. electricians inspect your electrical panel in preparation for electrification and ensure it is safe and can handle modern electrical loads.

More Reasons to Consider an Electrical Panel Upgrade

Adding more power to your home is the main reason to upgrade your electrical panel in Ooltewah, and all the neighboring communities. Here are four more:

• Frequent Breaker Trips: A Sign of Overloaded Circuits
  An overloaded circuit will trip a breaker to prevent overheating. Frequent tripping may indicate that your electrical panel cannot fulfill your home’s power needs.

• Flickering Lights: Can Your Panel Handle Modern Appliances?
  Do the lights dim or flicker whenever your home’s furnace, air conditioner, or a major appliance turns on? Let us check your electrical system. Your electrical panel may be overloaded and inadequate for your needs.

• Unsettling Sounds and Smells: Signs Your Panel Needs Help
  Popping, loud humming, and crackling sounds could mean connections inside the panel are loose, or the breakers need attention. Call Eldridge Service Co. immediately if you notice a burning odor from the panel. Your panel could be on its last legs and potentially cause a fire.
  
  Rust on your panel could indicate water damage—our electricians can determine why it is happening.

• Outdated Technology: Fuse Boxes vs. Modern Panels
  Does your vintage home still have a fuse box? It is time to upgrade to a modern breaker panel. Schedule an inspection if you have a panel but have not upgraded it in the last 20 years or more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Replacing Your Electrical Panel

Here are a few of the more common questions our customers ask about replacing their home’s electrical panel:

1. How much does it cost to replace an electrical panel?

The cost to replace an electrical panel can vary significantly, typically depending on these factors:

• Amperage of the new panel: Higher amperage panels (e.g., 200-amp or 400-amp) cost more than lower amperage panels (e.g., 100-amp). Most modern homes require at least a 200-amp panel.
• Labor costs: The majority of the expense often comes from labor. Electrician rates vary by region and the complexity of the job. A standard replacement might take 4-8 hours, but extensive rewiring or panel relocation can significantly increase labor time and cost.
• Complexity of the installation: If your home’s existing wiring is old or not up to current codes, additional wiring upgrades, grounding systems, or surge protection may be necessary, adding to the overall cost.
• Panel type: Traditional circuit breaker panels differ in price from more advanced smart panels.
• Location and accessibility: If the panel needs to be relocated (e.g., from indoors to outdoors, or simply to a new spot), this can add $1,000 to $3,000 or more due to the extensive rewiring and structural changes required.
• Permits and inspections: Most municipalities require permits for electrical panel replacements to ensure safety and compliance with local codes. Permit fees typically range from $50 to $300 in most states.

Generally speaking, replacing an electrical panel in most states will cost $2,000 or more. Labor and permit fees and the complexity of the job will influence this cost. For a more accurate quote, schedule a free consultation with Eldridge Service Co.

2. How long does an electrical panel replacement take?

A typical electrical panel replacement usually takes a licensed electrician between 4 to 8 hours to complete. However, if additional work is needed, such as extensive rewiring, relocating the panel, or upgrading other components of your electrical system, the job can take longer, potentially extending to a full day or even multiple days.

It’s also important to factor in time for inspections after the work is complete.

3. Do I need a permit to replace my electrical panel?

Yes, in most areas, a permit is required for electrical panel replacement or any significant electrical work. This is crucial for safety and to ensure the work complies with local building codes and the National Electrical Code (NEC).

Our Eldridge Service Co. electricians will handle the permit application process and schedule the necessary inspections with the local authorities. Attempting to replace an electrical panel without a permit is not only dangerous but can also lead to issues with home insurance and future resale.

Call Your Nearby Expert Electricians in Ooltewah

If you plan to incorporate more electrical appliances into your home or want assurance that your electrical panel is safe and has adequate power, be sure to schedule an electrical system inspection and possible upgrade.

For a free, no-obligation consultation, call Eldridge Service Co. at 423-475-5661 or request service online. Our coverage extends from Ooltewah, TN, and throughout the Hamilton County area.