Electrical Panel Upgrades

    An electrical panel upgrade replaces your outdated or undersized breaker box with a modern panel that safely supports your home's power needs. This service is for homeowners adding appliances, EV chargers, or remodeling, as well as those with unsafe legacy panels. Classic Home Electric provides panel upgrades throughout Lynnwood, Snohomish County, King County, and surrounding areas, giving you safer, more reliable power capacity.

    When You Need This Service

    Adding Major Appliances

    Installing a new hot tub, HVAC system, electric range, or EV charger often requires more power than an older 100-amp panel can safely provide.

    Outdated or Unsafe Brands

    Older panels like Federal Pacific (FPE), Zinsco, or push-button breaker systems are known fire hazards and should be replaced immediately.

    Frequent Breaker Trips

    If you constantly have to reset breakers, your panel is likely overloaded. An upgrade ensures your electrical system can handle your daily needs.

    Planning a Home Remodel or Addition

    Adding square footage, new circuits, or a garage conversion usually means your existing panel no longer has enough capacity or available breaker slots.

    What We Can Help With

    • 100-amp to 200-amp service upgrades
    • Subpanel installations
    • Replacing unsafe electrical panels (Federal Pacific, Zinsco)
    • Whole-home surge protection
    • Breaker replacements and repairs
    • Meter base upgrades
    • Adding circuit breaker slots for new loads
    • EV-ready panel preparation

    What to Expect During the Process

    1

    We assess your current panel, calculate your home's load requirements, and recommend the right panel size for your needs.

    2

    Power is temporarily shut off during the swap, typically for a few hours. We coordinate timing to minimize disruption.

    3

    The old panel is removed and the new panel is installed with code-compliant wiring and labeling.

    4

    If a permit is required, we handle the application and coordinate the inspection with your local jurisdiction.

    5

    We test every circuit to confirm proper operation and safe connections before restoring full power.

    Safety & Planning Considerations

    Federal Pacific and Zinsco Panels Are Known Hazards

    These legacy panels have a documented history of breaker failure and fire risk. If your home has one, replacement should be a priority regardless of whether you are experiencing problems.

    Panel Upgrades Require a Licensed Electrician

    Working inside a main panel involves live service conductors and is dangerous for untrained homeowners. All work is performed by a licensed, bonded, and insured electrician.

    Permits and Inspections Are Typically Required

    Most panel upgrades require a permit and electrical inspection to confirm the installation meets local code. We manage this process for you.

    Why Choose Classic Home Electric?

    We are committed to providing the highest quality electrical work with a focus on safety, communication, and customer satisfaction. Our licensed and insured electricians treat your home with the utmost respect.

    • Upfront, transparent pricing
    • Clean, respectful, and on-time service
    • Locally owned and operated

    Local Service Areas

    Classic Home Electric proudly serves the Greater King, Snohomish, and Jefferson County areas. We provide reliable electrical panel upgrades for homeowners and businesses in:

    Lynnwood, Edmonds, Seattle, Mountlake Terrace, Shoreline, Everett, Marysville, and the Quimper Peninsula.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How much does an electrical panel upgrade cost?

    Panel upgrade costs vary based on the panel size, whether the meter base needs upgrading, and the condition of existing wiring. A standard 100-to-200-amp upgrade is a common project. We provide a detailed, upfront estimate after assessing your home.

    How long does a panel upgrade take?

    Most residential panel upgrades are completed in a single day. If a meter base upgrade or service reroute is needed, the project may extend to a second day. We give you a clear timeline before starting.

    Does a panel upgrade require a permit?

    Yes. Panel upgrades almost always require a permit and inspection in Washington State. We handle the permit application and coordinate the inspection with your local building department.

    Will my power be off during the upgrade?

    Yes, power is temporarily shut off while the panel is swapped, typically for two to four hours. We schedule the work at a time that minimizes disruption to your household.

    How do I know if my panel is unsafe?

    Signs include frequent breaker trips, burn marks or a burning smell near the panel, breakers that will not stay reset, or a panel brand like Federal Pacific or Zinsco. If you notice any of these, contact a licensed electrician for an inspection.

    Can I upgrade my panel and add an EV charger at the same time?

    Yes. If your current panel does not have the capacity for a Level 2 EV charger, we can upgrade the panel and install the charger in the same project. This is often more efficient than doing them separately.

    Ready to get started?

    Contact Classic Home Electric today for reliable, professional service. We're ready to help with your electrical panel upgrades.

    Schedule Your Consultation