Why Upgrade Your Electrical Service?
Modern homes and businesses rely on far more electricity than they did a few decades ago. With more high-efficiency HVAC systems, electric vehicles, and smart appliances, your home’s electrical system must adapt to today’s energy demands.
When Should You Consider an Upgrade?
If your home still has a 100-amp panel, outdated wiring, or fuses instead of breakers, it’s likely time for an electrical service upgrade. An outdated system can’t safely deliver enough power for modern use. Over time, this may lead to overheating, breaker trips, or even fire hazards.
Moreover, upgrading ensures your home’s power distribution is safe and reliable. It also helps protect your investment from electrical overloads, brownouts, and costly damage to sensitive electronics.
Added Benefits of Modern Electrical Panels
An upgraded panel doesn’t just improve safety — it boosts performance. For instance, it allows you to:
- Run more appliances at once without tripping breakers.
- Prepare your home for future technologies like EV chargers or solar panels.
- Maintain compliance with insurance and inspection standards.
Additionally, newer panels are designed for energy efficiency and better monitoring, giving homeowners peace of mind and long-term value.
NEC Recommendations & Code Compliance
The National Electrical Code (NEC) recommends that all electrical systems meet the latest safety standards. While there is no fixed lifespan, panels typically should be inspected or upgraded every 25–40 years, especially if:
✅ Your panel shows rust, corrosion, or signs of overheating.
✅ You’ve added new appliances, HVAC equipment, or a generator.
✅ Lights flicker or breakers trip frequently.
✅ You plan to install an electric vehicle charger or solar panels.
Under current NEC guidelines, most new homes require a minimum 200-amp service, ensuring capacity for high-load devices, HVAC, and modern electrical systems.
Benefits of Upgrading Your Electrical Service
✅ Improved Safety: Reduces the risk of fire, shocks, and overloaded circuits.
✅ Increased Capacity: Supports new electrical loads like EV chargers and heat pumps.
✅ Higher Home Value: Buyers appreciate code-compliant, modern electrical systems.
✅ Stable Power Supply: Prevents flickering lights and tripping breakers.
✅ Insurance & Code Compliance: Many insurers now require updated panels for coverage.
How Often Should It Be Upgraded?
In general:
- Panels older than 25–30 years should be evaluated by a licensed electrician.
- Fuse boxes or 60–100 amp panels should be replaced immediately if the home uses central air, electric ranges, or EV charging.
- If you experience frequent power issues, schedule an inspection regardless of age.
GSHA Services, LTD can assess your current panel, calculate your load capacity, and recommend the right upgrade — whether you need a 150A, 200A, or 400A service.
Typical Pricing for Electrical Service Upgrades
Pricing depends on amperage, panel type, and project complexity, but here’s a general guide:
| Service Type | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| 100A Panel Upgrade | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| 200A Panel Upgrade | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| 100A Service Upgrade (meter, wiring, grounding) | $4,500 – $6,500 |
| 200A Service Upgrade (meter, wiring, grounding) | $5,500 – $8,500 |
Every home is different — GSHA Services, LTD provides free estimates and ensures all work complies with NEC, local building codes, and utility requirements.
Why Choose GSHA Services, LTD?
- Licensed, bonded, and insured electricians.
- NEC and local code compliance on every job.
- 100% satisfaction guarantee.
- Transparent pricing and detailed load calculations.
- Financing options available through Synchrony for qualifying projects.
Schedule Your Electrical Service Upgrade Today
Whether you’re replacing an outdated 100A panel or preparing your home for future energy needs, GSHA Services, LTD provides reliable, code-compliant upgrades that keep your home safe and efficient.
📞 Call (224) 220-3660 or Request a Free Estimate today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is an electrical service upgrade?
An electrical service upgrade is the process of replacing your home’s main electrical service — including the service entrance wiring, meter base, main breaker panel, grounding, and associated circuitry — to provide more capacity and improved safety.
Why should I upgrade my electrical service?
- To handle increased electrical load from modern appliances, EV chargers, solar systems, HVAC, etc.
- To reduce risk of overheating, fires, or breaker trips from overloaded circuits.
- To meet current code / NEC requirements and gain insurance compliance.
- To improve home value and buyer confidence.
- To prevent voltage drop, flickering lights, or nuisance breaker tripping.
What does the NEC / electrical code say about service size?
- The National Electrical Code (NEC) doesn’t mandate a fixed “upgrade every X years,” but codes evolve, and older installations often don’t meet current safety standards.
- Many newer homes are required to have 200-amp service as a minimum per modern load calculations.
- If your service or panel is outdated, undersized, or shows signs of wear, an upgrade is frequently recommended to comply with latest codes.
How often should an electrical service be evaluated or upgraded?
- Any panel or service over 25-30 years old should be inspected and potentially upgraded.
- Homes with 60 A or 100 A service should seriously consider upgrading if adding major loads (EV charger, HVAC, workshop, etc.).
- If you experience frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, or signs of overheating (burn marks, burning smell), don’t wait—get an inspection now.
What’s a ballpark cost for a service upgrade?
To give your customers a rough idea, here are typical price ranges (in the U.S.), though your local rates and circumstances can vary significantly
Do I need to coordinate with the utility for a service upgrade?
Yes. In many cases:
- The utility company must approve or perform meter or service transformer changes.
- They may require disconnection of power temporarily.
- The new service must meet utility specifications (meter base type, cable size, labeling, etc.).
Your electrician should handle coordination and permit requirements on your behalf.
How long does it take to upgrade an electrical service?
- Permitting and inspections can add extra time, depending on your city or county.
- For a straightforward upgrade (same location, easy access), it may take 1 to 2 days.
- More complex jobs (rerouting wires, new conduit routes, utility work) may take several days to a week.
Will I lose power during the upgrade?
Yes, typically during portions of the work, your power must be shut off. A competent electrician will:
- Schedule the outage at a time that minimizes disruption
- Coordinate with the utility for shutoff
- Ensure safety and temporary power if necessary
How do I know if my panel is outdated or failing?
Look for warning signs:
- Rust, corrosion, or burn marks on the panel or bus bars
- Frequently tripped breakers or blown fuses
- Flickering or dimming lights
- No space left for expansion or new circuits
- Knob-and-tube wiring or obsolete fuse boxes
- Lack of grounding or improper bonding
Will an upgrade increase my home’s resale value?
Yes, up-to-date electrical systems are often a selling point. Prospective buyers and home inspectors look favorably on homes with modern, NEC-compliant panels and services. It reduces buyers’ perceived risk and future cost.
Can I upgrade gradually (in phases)?
Sometimes yes—but with caveats:
- You might upgrade the panel now, but delay pulling in additional feeders or circuits until needed.
- However, if the main service is understressed, it’s better to go ahead with a full upgrade to avoid “double work.”
- Partial upgrades may have limitations in meeting code or utility requirements.
How should I choose an electrician for a service upgrade?
Be sure to check:
- License, insurance, bonding
- Experience with service upgrades, not just small repairs
- Good reviews, references, and examples of past panel upgrades
- Clear written estimates, load calculations, and permit handling
- Willingness to coordinate with the utility
Is there financing or special programs available?
Yes, We offer payment plans, low-interest financing, or loans for larger home electrical upgrades.