Understanding Electrical Panel Upgrades: When and Why You Need One

Your home’s electrical panel is the heart of your electrical system, distributing power to all your appliances, outlets, and lights. Over time, as homes add more high-power devices, older electrical panels may struggle to keep up with demand, leading to tripped breakers, flickering lights, or even fire hazards.

If you’ve noticed frequent electrical issues or are considering adding new appliances, an electrical panel upgrade might be necessary. In this guide, we’ll explain what an electrical panel upgrade involves, why it’s important, and the signs that indicate it’s time for an upgrade.

What Is an Electrical Panel Upgrade?

An electrical panel upgrade involves replacing your current panel with a higher-capacity unit, allowing it to handle increased electrical loads safely. Older homes often have 100-amp panels, which may not be sufficient for modern electrical demands.

Most homes today benefit from a 200-amp panel, and some larger properties or those with heavy electrical needs (such as EV chargers, hot tubs, or home workshops) may require 400 amps or more.

Signs You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade

1. Your Breakers Trip Frequently

If your circuit breakers trip often, it’s a sign that your electrical panel is overloaded. This happens when the panel can’t handle the power demands of modern appliances, such as:

• HVAC systems
• Electric water heaters
• EV chargers
• Smart home devices
• High-powered kitchen appliances

Constant tripping is more than just a nuisance—it’s a safety risk that could lead to overheating and potential electrical fires.

2. Your Home Still Has a Fuse Box

If your home was built before the 1970s and still has a fuse box instead of a circuit breaker panel, it’s time for an upgrade. Fuses are outdated and can be dangerous, as they don’t trip like breakers—instead, they burn out and require manual replacement.

Upgrading to a modern circuit breaker panel improves safety, reliability, and ease of use.

3. Your Lights Flicker or Dim When Using Appliances

Do your lights dim when you turn on a vacuum cleaner, microwave, or hairdryer? This could indicate that your panel is struggling to distribute power evenly throughout your home.

Upgrading your panel ensures that all your devices receive stable power without overloading circuits or causing fluctuations.

4. You’re Adding New High-Power Appliances

If you’re planning to install new appliances that require more power, such as:
✔ An EV charging station
✔ A hot tub or spa
✔ A home theater system
✔ A solar panel system

…then you may need a panel upgrade to accommodate the extra demand. Without an upgrade, your current panel could become overloaded, leading to frequent outages and potential hazards.

5. Your Electrical Panel Feels Warm or Has a Burning Smell

A hot electrical panel or a burning odor near your breaker box is a serious red flag. This often means that wiring inside the panel is overheating, which could lead to an electrical fire.

If you notice any heat, discoloration, or strange smells coming from your electrical panel, turn off power to the affected circuits immediately and call an emergency electrician.

Benefits of Upgrading Your Electrical Panel

🔹 Increased Safety – Reduces fire risks and prevents overloaded circuits.
🔹 Better Energy Efficiency – A new panel distributes power more effectively, reducing strain on your system.
🔹 More Appliance Compatibility – Supports modern high-power appliances and future upgrades.
🔹 Higher Home Value – A new panel is a major selling point for buyers looking for a safe, updated home.
🔹 Code Compliance – Ensures your home meets the latest electrical safety codes and regulations.

What to Expect During an Electrical Panel Upgrade

A professional electrician will inspect your current panel and determine whether an upgrade is necessary. The process includes:

1️⃣ Assessing Your Electrical Needs – Evaluating power usage and whether additional circuits are required.
2️⃣ Choosing the Right Panel Size – Upgrading to a 200-amp or higher panel if needed.
3️⃣ Safely Removing the Old Panel – Disconnecting power and removing outdated wiring.
4️⃣ Installing & Testing the New Panel – Ensuring proper connections and compliance with electrical codes.

Most upgrades take a few hours to a full day, depending on the complexity of the wiring and the home’s electrical layout.

How Much Does an Electrical Panel Upgrade Cost?

The cost of upgrading an electrical panel depends on several factors, including:
💰 Standard 200-amp panel upgrade: $1,500 - $3,500
💰 400-amp panel for large homes: $3,500 - $7,500
💰 Additional wiring & circuit installation: $500 - $1,500

While this may seem like a significant investment, upgrading your panel ensures your home remains safe, energy-efficient, and future-ready.

Why Choose MJP Electrical Experts for Your Panel Upgrade?

At MJP Electrical Experts, we specialize in safe, code-compliant electrical panel upgrades for residential and commercial properties. Our licensed and insured electricians ensure that your panel meets modern electrical demands, reducing fire risks, improving energy efficiency, and providing long-term reliability.

⚡ Expert Inspections – We evaluate your home’s power needs and recommend the right upgrade.
⚡ High-Quality Installations – Our certified electricians handle the entire upgrade process safely and efficiently.
⚡ Affordable Pricing & Financing Options – We offer competitive pricing with transparent estimates.

If your home needs an electrical panel upgrade, contact MJP Electrical Experts today for a free consultation and get the power your home needs safely and efficiently!

Final Thoughts

Your electrical panel is one of the most important components of your home’s power system. Ignoring signs of an outdated panel can lead to safety hazards, power failures, and costly repairs. Whether you’re upgrading for safety, energy efficiency, or new appliances, a panel upgrade ensures your home stays powered and protected.

🔌 Ready for an upgrade? Get in touch with MJP Electrical Experts today!