How Much Do Electrical Panel Upgrades Cost?
Your electrical system is the lifeblood of your home and your electrical panel is exactly where that electricity is controlled. When you decide on an electrical panel upgrade, it is thus for both functional and financial reasons.
Properties use a variety of modern devices and equipment, including computers, air conditioners, and high-definition televisions, all of which have high power needs beyond the design limits of old home and business panels. Thus, if you have an older electrical panel, it probably needs to be replaced.
Whether you have a small or large project in town or in the country, an old electrical panel will probably need to be replaced fairly soon. Maybe you would like to upgrade and gain some additional power usage, or perhaps you would just like to modernize your current electrical panel. Whatever the reason may be, our guide will help you determine the costs involved to upgrade your electrical panel.
Why Should I Get an Electrical Panel Upgrade?
If you recognize any of the following, you may need to immediately upgrade an electrical panel. Any safety hazards or urgent signs of failure will include things like:
- flickering lights
- buzzing
- crackling sounds
- blown fuses
In some cases, there may even be heat generated, building up within walls which can cause a fire. You should proceed with caution in the event that any abnormal electrical behavior is detected and an electrician should be contacted immediately. Although, repairs may be adequate, an electrician will often recommend that you upgrade electrical panels instead of repairing it in order to improve the overall quality of your system.
Keep in mind that as more and more technologies emerge, you will continue to need more and more power. In addition, the resale value of your home may decrease with an outdated panel. If prospective homeowners notice an older panel they may view it as an obsolete electrical system in disrepair. So, improving your system with an electrical panel upgrade can absolutely make a difference when you are looking to sell your property.
Regardless of the reason why you are looking to upgrade an electrical panel, opting to hire the services of a professional is your best bet to ensure that your project is done right and on a budget that you set. Hiring a professional will offer peace of mind and satisfaction with the end result.
How Much Should It Cost To Upgrade My Electrical Panel?
Keep in mind that many different factors will determine the ultimate cost to upgrade an electrical panel. Before you commit, you should carefully consider all of the factors affecting you as a homeowner to avoid surprises once you receive the bill.
In addition, making sure that increase the use of power as you continue to make your property adaptable to future technological advancement is essential. This is because the total electricity used in the home cannot surpass the electrical panel's capacity. Electrical panels can be upgraded to 100, 150, 200, and 400 amps, and as you continue to introduce new technology into your home, your demands will continue to increase while electrical panel upgrade costs continue to change over time.
Knowing all of this, the national average costs to upgrade an electrical panel currently comes in at around anywhere between $800 and $1,500. On the extreme high end, for a major panel upgrade, you as a homeowner could pay as much as $5,000, but you would be well advised to discuss all your options with a professional to get a more accurate idea of what your particular electrical panel upgrade will cost.
Cost Breakdown
- Typically, just upgrading the panel to 100 amps can cost $800 - $1,200. Replacing the entire electrical panel with a new one averages $1,500 - $2,500.
- Upgrading to a 200 amp electrical panel averages $1,300 - $3,000.
- Upgrading to a 400 amp panel can cost as much as $2,000 - $4,000, and if you would like a new sub panel run to the garage or outhouse, expect to spend $500 - $1,000 extra.
Material Costs
Purchasing a new 100 amp electrical panel on its own will usually set you back $300 - $500 and will rise $100 - $200 per 100 amps increments. Added materials, fittings, connectors, and fasteners will total around $100. Any additional features needed for the home will obviously increase the overall cost to upgrade an electrical panel. In some instances, your local utility will install a new power supply and meter to fulfill your home's new power needs.
Labor Costs
Upgrading to a new electrical panel will take some time to complete, but usually not more than 8 - 10 hours. Electricians on average charge between $70 - $90 an hour for labor. Therefore, the labor time spent on electrical panel upgrades cost, on average, $560 - $900.
These charges may vary depending on the conditions of your electrical system and your particular region. Additional factors influencing the labor cost will depend on the existing wiring conduits, copper grounding, existing split circuits, new subpanels, and access to exterior sources.
An electrical panel upgrade is by no means a DIY job. Any changes to the wiring system of your home should be completed by a licensed electrician. A professional will be able to handle any permits, restrictions, and requirements. Before you begin, it would be best to compare quotes from local electricians in order to get a more accurate idea of the rates you should be paying.
Get a Free Quote For Your Electrical Panel Upgrade Cost
If your home is in need of an electrical panel upgrade, local registered electricians near you are waiting to give you a totally FREE estimate of what your upgrade will cost. With some professional assistance, you will be able to figure out your budget as you establish current pricing trends in your area. With this offer comes no obligation to make any purchases, and there are no contracts to sign. Simply enter your details into the form provided and some FREE assistance is yours.
