Whether it’s a large urban, commercial complex or a rural farm home, electrical systems are the blood that flows through and powers modern properties. And electrical panels are the brain where that electricity is controlled from.
Panel upgrades are required for additional power usage or modernization, but many different factors can determine the costs. Before a home or business owner makes the decision to upgrade, he or she should carefully consider all the factors involved.
Reasons to Upgrade
Modern homes use a variety of appliances and devices that require a significant amount of power. These devices, including high-definition televisions and computers, have power needs that go beyond the design specifications of homes and businesses that are older than just a few decades.
As technology continues to evolve and become more a part of everyday life, power requirements will continue to rise. Potential homeowners may view old panels as an obsolete electrical system, so upgrading a panel can make a big difference during the sale of a property.
Other reasons may include needing to upgrade due to safety hazards and urgent signs of electrical failure.
In the National Fire Protection Association’s electrical safety tips for the home, the NFPA recommends you call an electrician when any of these electrical problems arise:
- Buzzing or crackling sound from electrical panel
- Flickering lights
- Frequent blown fuses or tripped circuits
- Hot electrical panel
- Unexplained electrical issues
While repair may be adequate, it could be recommend an upgrade is needed in order to improve the overall quality of the electrical system.
Electrical Panel Upgrade Costs
The retail cost of the panel itself can range anywhere from $300-$500 depending on the type of panel purchased and any additional features that you want added to your new electrical setup.
Panel changes can range anywhere from $1,000 to $1,800 depending on the type of breaker used. A good average cost is around $1,200 to $1,300.
Many older homes only used enough electricity to require 100 amps, but modern equipment often requires as much as 200 amps for the modern home. Upgrading your electrical system to meet these new demands means you can install new devices and appliances without the fear of running out of juice or breaking their existing system.
When dealing with electricity, remember it is always important to contact a professional. At Shockley Electric, our highly trained and licensed electricians work to assure your home is hazard free, and meet all your electrical needs. We will never oversell you and offer a lifetime warranty on all labor (parts have a 3-year warranty). Most importantly, we will never try and oversell you something you don’t need.
Trust Shockley Electric to maintain your electrical system, and ultimately, the safety of your home. Please call (770) 630-6858 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation or inquire about an electrical service panel upgrade.
