An electrical panel upgrade is one of the larger home improvement expenses you'll face, but it's also one of the most necessary if your home's wiring can't keep up with modern demands. Here's what the work actually costs and what you're paying for.
Panel upgrade cost by amperage
The cost is primarily driven by how large a panel you're upgrading to:
- ✓100-amp panel (upgrade from 60A): $1,500--$2,500
- ✓150-amp panel: $1,800--$2,800
- ✓200-amp panel (most common upgrade): $2,000--$4,000
- ✓400-amp panel (large homes or EV charging): $3,500--$6,000
What's included in the installed price
A legitimate panel upgrade includes the new panel and breakers, labor (typically 8--16 hours), pulling the required permit, coordinating with the utility company to shut off power at the meter, and scheduling a final inspection. Don't accept a quote that skips the permit -- an unpermitted panel can void your homeowner's insurance and create liability issues if there's a fire.
Signs your panel needs to be upgraded
You may need a panel upgrade if:
- ✓Breakers trip frequently under normal use
- ✓You're adding a major appliance (EV charger, hot tub, central AC)
- ✓You're planning a significant renovation
- ✓The panel is a Federal Pacific or Zinsco brand (fire hazard -- replacement often required by insurers)
- ✓Your home still has a fuse box rather than a breaker panel
- ✓Lights dim when appliances start
Additional costs to be aware of
Sometimes the panel itself isn't the only work needed. Budget for these potential add-ons:
- ✓Service entrance upgrade (from utility pole to panel): $500--$2,000
- ✓Whole-home surge protector: $250--$500 installed (worth doing while the panel is open)
- ✓Circuit additions: $150--$300 per circuit
- ✓Grounding system upgrade: $100--$500
Bottom line
A 200-amp panel upgrade runs $2,000-$4,000 installed for most homes. Get at least two qualified electricians to quote the job - and make sure the winning quote includes the permit and inspection, not just the hardware.
Need electrical work done?
Novum sends its own licensed crew. Flat upfront quote before we touch anything.