Service Panel Upgrade

San Jose Service Panel Upgrade Services

Quality & Dependable Service in Santa Clara County & Beyond

Your home's electrical panel is the unsung hero of your modern lifestyle, quietly distributing power to every outlet, light, and appliance. But like any hardworking component, it can wear out over time. If your panel is old or showing signs of stress, it might be time for an upgrade.

At Infinium Solar, we understand the importance of a reliable electrical system. As a leading solar energy and electric company with over 16 years of experience in California, we’ve seen firsthand how outdated panels can hinder your home’s efficiency and safety. Our in-house team of skilled professionals is dedicated to providing top-notch electrical services, including panel upgrades.

Do You Need an Electrician to Upgrade an Electrical Panel?  

Yes, it is in your best interest to hire a licensed electrician to handle your upgrade. There is a lot of electricity running through electrical panels, and mistakes when handling the panel can lead to electrocution, fires, or other serious injuries. 

In addition to being a safety issue, trying to upgrade your electrical panel without professional help is also a bad idea for the following reasons: 

  • You may not know what to do with respect to code compliance. Electrical systems are subject to strict building codes. An electrician ensures that the upgrade meets all local regulations.
  • You do not have years of experience. Upgrading an electrical panel requires specific knowledge and skills. Electricians understand the components, wiring, and safety protocols.
  • You may need help getting permits. In many areas, permits are required for electrical work. Electricians can handle this process for you.
  • You risk losing your warranty. If something goes wrong after the upgrade, having a licensed electrician's work provides warranty protection.

Understanding the Electrical Panel Upgrade Process

Upgrading an electrical panel is a complex process that involves the following steps: 

  1. Assessment and planning, which involve: 
    1. An inspection. A qualified electrician will assess your current panel to determine its condition, capacity, and any potential safety hazards.
    2. A needs analysis. Based on your home's size, electrical usage, and future plans (e.g., adding appliances), the electrician will recommend the appropriate panel size and configuration.
  2. Permit acquisition: Your electrician will obtain the necessary permits from your local building department. This ensures the work complies with electrical codes and regulations.

Utility coordination: If the project involves increasing the amperage, coordination with the utility company is essential. They will need to upgrade the service line to your home.

  1. Panel installation, which involves: 
    1. Shutting off your power until the work is complete.
    2. Removing your old panel. 
    3. Connecting existing wiring to your new panel.
    4. Making sure proper grounding is established.
    5. Installing new circuit breakers as needed. 
  2. Inspection and activation: The electrical inspector will verify that the work meets code requirements.
  3. Power restoration: Once approved, the utility company will restore power.

Call (650) 600-0747 to get in touch with us today.

How Long Does a Service Panel Upgrade Take? 

In general, an upgrade can take four to eight hours to complete, depending on the size of the panel, the number of circuits, and any unforeseen issues like damaged wiring or limited access. So, you should plan to have the day clear for the work. 

When to Upgrade a Residential Electrical Panel 

Generally, electrical panels last between 25 to 40 years, depending on their usage, maintenance, and the type of panel you have. An outdated panel can pose safety risks and may not be able to handle the demands of modern appliances and electronics. Upgrading to a new panel can enhance your home's safety, efficiency, and overall electrical performance.

Some of the signs you need a panel upgrade include the following: 

  • Frequent circuit breaker trips
  • Old, outdated panel (especially if it's a fuse box)
  • Insufficient power for modern appliances
  • Planning a major home renovation
  • Adding new electrical circuits

If you're unsure about the age or condition of your electrical panel, it's always a good idea to schedule a professional inspection. An electrician can assess your panel's condition and recommend a proper course of action.

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Pros & Cons of a Panel Upgrade

Upgrading your electrical panel offers several advantages. A new panel can significantly enhance safety by reducing the risk of electrical fires caused by outdated components. 

Additionally, it increases your home's electrical capacity, allowing you to power more modern appliances and devices without overloading the system. This can improve convenience and comfort. A panel upgrade can also boost your home's value, making it more attractive to potential buyers if you decide to sell.

While the benefits of an electrical panel upgrade are substantial, there are also some drawbacks to consider. The most obvious is the cost. Replacing a panel can be a significant investment, depending on the size of your home and the complexity of the work. The process can also be disruptive, as you will not have electricity during the installation. 

Can Homeowners Insurance Typically Cover Electrical Panel Replacements? 

Generally yes, homeowners insurance can cover the replacement of an electrical panel if it's damaged by a covered accident. This typically includes events like:

  • Fire
  • Lightning
  • Windstorms
  • Hail
  • Vandalism

Insurance does not typically cover replacements due to age and improper maintenance concerns. Thus, if you need a replacement because of normal wear and tear and neglect, you will have to cover the cost yourself. You should not be deterred by the upfront costs, as many electricians (including our team) offer financing options. 

However, it is important to note that normal wear and tear, or the need for an upgrade due to age, is usually not covered. You should review your policy and deductible information. 

Work with Our Electricians

We offer comprehensive solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re looking to replace an aging panel or install a new one to accommodate additional electrical loads, we've got you covered. Rest assured, our work is performed in strict compliance with the latest safety codes and industry standards.

Our team is highly experienced and committed to helping out customers protect themselves, their home, and their electrical systems. We want our service to be accessible not just in terms of price but also in terms of your understanding of our services, so we have staff that can discuss your upgrade in English and Spanish. You can trust us to keep you in the loop and empower you to make informed decisions about the course of action for your project. 

Ready to experience the Infinium Solar difference? Give our San Jose electricians a call at (650) 600-0747 and schedule a service.

Why Choose Infinium Solar?

  • Customer Care Focused
    We want to ensure all of our customers have a top-notch experience from beginning to end. From the phone call to the end of the installation. Your experience is our first priority.
  • Fair & Affordable Pricing
    We are one of the only solar energy companies in California that stocks and supplies our own products, making our wide range of premium solar power systems and related components available at the best price point for their high value.
  • Quality Solutions & Craftmanship
    Our craftsmanship is virtually unrivaled within the industry. Our comprehensive inspection and design process ensures that every solar panel system we install is specifically tailored to each customer.
  • 15+ Years in the Solar Industry
    We have been committed to researching and advancing our products with innovative developments for solar technologies since the beginning.

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