Most of us never think about the electrical panel, until something goes wrong. But that panel behind the garage door or inside a closet? It powers everything: your lights, AC, appliances, charger for the EV, and more.
If your home was built more than 30 years ago, it probably wasn’t designed for modern electrical loads. Between smart homes, new HVAC systems, and EVs, it’s easy to max out an outdated system. That’s where an electrical panel upgrade comes in.
What an Electrical Panel Upgrade Involves
Your electrical panel (also called a breaker box) is the central hub for power in your home. It sends electricity to different rooms and cuts it off during a surge or short.
An electrical panel upgrade means replacing an outdated panel with one that meets your home’s current and future needs.
That might include:
- Bumping your system from 100 amps to 200 amps
- Replacing old breakers with new, safer ones
- Adding room for more circuits
- Updating wiring and grounding
How to Know It’s Time for an Electrical Panel Upgrade
Some signs are easy to ignore, until they become real issues:
- Breakers trip often
- Lights dim or flicker when major appliances start
- Your panel feels hot to the touch or makes buzzing sounds
- Outlets spark or look discolored
- You’re adding solar panels, an EV charger, or a hot tub
- Home insurance flags your panel as a liability
If any of this sounds familiar, it’s time to talk to an electrician about an electrical panel upgrade.
Why This Matters in Sacramento
Let’s talk local. In Sacramento, summer AC usage alone can stress an older system. Add a pool, an EV charger, or a backyard ADU, and suddenly your 100-amp panel can’t keep up.
Some older homes still have panels made by brands like Zinsco or Federal Pacific. These are known fire hazards and often fail to trip when needed. Upgrading isn’t optional with these, it’s urgent.
A Sacramento homeowner recently upgraded their panel after installing a Tesla Wall Connector. Without the electrical panel upgrade, they faced constant breaker issues every time they charged the car overnight.
Benefits of an Electrical Panel Upgrade
Here’s what you get when you upgrade:
Safer Home
- Reduces risk of electrical fires
- Ensures power is shut off during surges
- Brings your system up to modern safety codes
Modern Capacity
- Powers EV chargers, central AC, and more
- Supports smart tech, solar panels, and expansions
- Lets you add circuits without overloading
Boosted Home Value
- Makes your home inspection-ready
- More appealing to buyers with modern needs
- Potentially lowers insurance premiums
Code Compliance
- Meets NEC requirements
- Smoother permits for remodels or additions
What It Costs to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel
In Sacramento, prices vary depending on the job. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- 100 to 200 amps: $3,000 – $4,500+
- 200 to 400 amps: $4,500 – $5,000+
Other cost factors:
- Location of the panel (interior vs exterior)
- Need for rewiring or trenching
- Utility coordination (especially with SMUD or PG&E)
- Permit and inspection fees
Always get a few local quotes from licensed electricians.
What to Expect During the Upgrade Process
Here’s a quick step-by-step on how an electrical panel upgrade works:
- Site Visit – The electrician checks your current panel, usage needs, and expansion plans.
- Permitting – Required permits are pulled through the city or county.
- Utility Approval – Your utility may need to inspect or sign off before work begins.
- Install Day – Power is shut off. The old panel is removed, and a new one is installed.
- Inspection – Final check by a city inspector. Power is restored once everything passes.
Most upgrades take a day. It’s best to schedule when weather is mild.
Common Questions Homeowners Ask
Will this lower my electric bill?
No, but it prevents bigger problems and future repair bills. Your system will run more safely and efficiently.
Can I just install a subpanel instead?
Sometimes. But if your main panel doesn’t have enough capacity, you’ll still need an electrical panel upgrade.
Is this required for solar installs?
Often, yes. Many solar systems need 200-amp panels to pass inspection or meet inverter requirements.
Can I do this myself?
Nope. Only licensed electricians can legally and safely perform this kind of work. It involves high voltage and permitting.
When’s the Right Time to Upgrade?
Good times to upgrade include:
- Before adding large appliances (like AC, electric dryers, EV chargers)
- While remodeling or adding an ADU
- Before installing solar panels
- When preparing your home for sale
Even if you’re not ready now, a consultation can help you plan.
Final Thoughts
An electrical panel upgrade may not be as exciting as a kitchen remodel, but it’s one of the smartest upgrades you can make. It keeps your home safe, functional, and future-proof.
If you’re in Sacramento and your panel is outdated, don’t wait until it fails. Have a licensed electrician take a look.
Need help deciding if it’s time to upgrade your panel? Reach out to Old Town Electric who knows Sacramento codes and utility processes. A quick inspection could save you from future headaches.
