Electrical panel replacement is a job for a professional. No matter how handy a homeowner you are, you probably don’t have the training and knowledge to take on such a project. You need a trained, licensed, and qualified electrician who’s familiar with all the requirements. It can save you in the long run. The electrical panel replacement process can be challenging, but we’ll provide an in-depth look at it and explain why you need a professional.
What Does Electrical Panel Replacement Entail?
You might need an electrical panel upgrade if the circuit breakers trip frequently, the panel emits a burning smell, or it looks worn, rusted, or damaged. A common reason to replace the panel is to boost capacity and add amperage to support an increased load. The project also often includes replacing outdated or worn-out wiring, so it has many benefits.
In general, here’s what electrical panel replacement looks like:
- Determine the Right Panel Size: An electrical panel’s capacity is measured in amperes. Homeowners often choose a 200-amp panel, which allows you to add a couple of appliances and supports an electric vehicle charger. Larger options include 300-amp and 400-amp electrical panels. To determine the right size, add up the total power requirements of all the lights, appliances, and devices in your home.
- Request a Service Change: Contact your utility company to request a change to your existing services, which requires filling out paperwork. Depending on your utility company, you can request the work order online.
- Wait for a Response: The length of the waiting period depends on the utility company’s availability. Your project is assigned to a planner who visits your home, inspects the area, and creates a design for the new installation. Next, they submit a work order that details the panel location, conduit size, meter height, clearances, and any trenching requirements if underground service is needed.
- Apply for a Permit: You need a city permit for electrical panel replacement. Don’t listen to subpar electrical contractors who quote a lower price and say pulling a permit isn’t necessary. Most municipalities offer a relatively easy process to apply for and get approved for a permit. You cannot proceed with an electrical panel upgrade until this step is complete.
- Meet with a Trench Inspector (For Underground Service): Many electrical installations involve overhead electrical service, which is essentially power lines running to a conduit near the electrical panel. If you see green transformers instead, you likely have underground electrical service.
A trench inspector determines the project requirements and obtains approval before digging a trench, which will contain the underground feeder conduit. The trench is then re-inspected and backfilled. Sidewalk, street, or driveway repairs are completed as necessary.
- Schedule a Disconnect/Reconnect: Whether you have overhead or underground service, you’ll need to schedule an electrical disconnect/reconnect. It’s the date the old panel will be removed and the new unit installed. A service coordinator from your utility company will help schedule this date. The company will disconnect the power on the day of your electrical panel upgrade.
- Grounding/Bonding System Installation: In compliance with the National Electric Code (NEC), two ground rods, a cold water pipe, and an electrical panel connection are installed. A solid, properly sized ground wire connects both ground rods and the other components.
- Panel Removal/Installation: The power is disconnected at the origin point and the old panel is removed. A new riser and weather head are installed for overhead electrical service. Electrical panel replacement proceeds and then a city inspector evaluates the site and notifies the utility company if it passes inspection. Power will then be restored.
Once the installation is complete, repairs to stucco/siding, waterproofing, and painting are completed. A final inspection is then scheduled to ensure your electrical panel upgrade complies with NEC standards.
Why Hire a Professional for Electrical Panel Replacement
Only if you have years of training and experience and an electrician’s license can you replace an electrical panel. It’s one of the most challenging electrical jobs. The reasons you need a professional include:
- Safety: It can be dangerous to work with electricity. One wrong move or a hidden problem can result in a fire, shock, or electrocution. Even electricians often get injured or worse by direct or indirect contact with live electrical equipment.
- Costs: You could make mistakes that cost you more than calling a professional in the first place. Plus, you’d need to purchase/rent expensive equipment you may never use again.
- Permits: Permitting requirements make do-it-yourself projects out of the question. You must have the correct paperwork and authorizations; otherwise, you could face a hefty fine and have to start the job all over again.
- Time: While you might wait for planners, inspectors, and approvals, electrical panel replacement should take about four to eight hours. Depending on the panel installed, the job can be completed in a day. Your electrical contractor will provide a timeline for your project before starting.
- Insurance: Professional electricians are insured. Liability coverage provides protection should an accident occur while the technician is working. Their insurance policy should also include coverage for repairing property damage if necessary.
Schedule Electrical Panel Replacement Today
At Sky Heating & Air Conditioning, we provide electrical panel upgrades and other electrical services. Replacing an out-of-date panel can increase safety and provide your home with more power. Customers throughout the Portland area have benefited from our professionalism and high-quality service. To schedule an evaluation for an electrical panel replacement, call (503) 506-4665 today.