The electrical panel is the heart of a home’s power system, distributing electricity to every circuit and appliance throughout the house. But like any core component, it can become outdated or undersized over time. Whether you’re adding new appliances, installing a home generator, or upgrading to meet modern code, an electrical panel upgrade is a critical step in maintaining a safe, efficient, and reliable electrical system.
Many homes, especially those built before the 1990s, were originally outfitted with panels that supported 100 amps or less. Today’s homes typically require 200 amps or more to safely power high-efficiency appliances, smart devices, electric vehicle chargers, and climate control systems. When an older panel becomes overloaded, it can result in flickering lights, frequently tripped breakers, and increased fire risk. An upgrade ensures your system can meet these demands without strain.
One of the first steps in an electrical panel upgrade is a detailed evaluation of your current system. We assess the capacity, condition, and layout of your existing panel and check for any signs of corrosion, improper grounding, or outdated components like fuses or tandem breakers. We also evaluate your home’s overall electrical load based on the number of appliances, HVAC units, water heaters, and other power-intensive systems.
Planning is essential for a smooth upgrade. We’ll walk you through what to expect in terms of timing, potential power downtime, and permitting. In most cases, the power will need to be shut off for several hours while we safely remove the old panel and install the new one. We coordinate closely with your utility company and local inspectors to ensure the transition is safe, compliant, and efficient.
A key benefit of a panel upgrade is increased safety. Outdated panels can become fire hazards, especially if they use obsolete brands or components that no longer meet modern standards. We replace these with up-to-code breakers and properly labeled circuits, ensuring better fault detection and surge protection. This upgrade dramatically reduces the risk of electrical fires and improves overall household safety.
Another major advantage is system efficiency. An upgraded panel reduces strain on circuits, allowing appliances and lighting systems to operate more consistently. This means fewer flickers, faster response times, and fewer resets. For homeowners adding EV chargers, hot tubs, or home offices, this upgrade makes sure those systems run smoothly without overloading your existing infrastructure.
Electrical panel upgrades can also impact home value. When buyers review inspection reports, one of the first things they check is the electrical system. An upgraded panel shows that your home has been modernized to meet today’s power needs, reducing concerns about future repairs or limitations. It’s a forward-looking investment that adds confidence and marketability to your property.
We also use this upgrade as an opportunity to improve your system’s flexibility. Many homeowners request dedicated circuits for high-draw appliances, kitchen islands, garages, or workshops. During a panel upgrade, we can add these circuits and outlets where needed—giving you more options for future expansions without needing to rewire the entire home.
Upgrading your electrical panel is a complex process that requires precision, permitting, and a thorough understanding of local codes. As licensed electricians serving Eastern North Carolina, we handle all phases of the upgrade—from permitting and coordination to inspection and post-installation testing. Our team ensures everything is completed to code and with minimal disruption to your daily life.
A panel upgrade isn’t just a repair—it’s a proactive improvement to your home’s infrastructure. Whether you’re expanding your system or simply bringing it up to modern safety standards, this upgrade is one of the most important electrical investments you can make.
Contact Powerhound Electrical Solutions at (910) 296-3536 or visit our Facebook page to schedule a panel evaluation and take the next step toward a safer, more efficient electrical system.
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