What’s the difference between a service upgrade (Heavy Up) and a panel replacement?

By understanding the intricacies of upgrading or replacing your electrical panel, you can make an informed decision that ensures the safety, reliability, and efficiency of your home’s electrical system.

Service Upgrades

A service upgrade, sometimes referred to as a “Heavy Up” is a process that includes replacing the panel, service wire, and grounding to provide additional electrical capacity to the home, so that increased loads may be used.

When to Consider a Service Upgrade?

This may be needed if your home is at already at capacity, and you want to add an EV Charger, Hot Tub, or HVAC system.

High-Power Appliances: If you plan to install high-power appliances like EV chargers, hot tubs, or new HVAC systems, a service upgrade is often necessary.
Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips: If your circuit breakers trip frequently, it could indicate that your current panel is overloaded or has faulty wiring.
Home Renovations: During significant home renovations, especially those involving electrical work, it’s a good time to evaluate if a service upgrade is needed.

Just because a panel is full does not mean it is at capacity, space and loading are two different issues. The latter of which can be solved in a more cost effective manner than upgrading your entire service.

When To Consider an Electrical Panel Replacement

An electrical panel replacement is just that, we replace the electrical panel only.

Signs You Need a Panel Replacement

Age and Condition: If your panel is over 20-30 years old, it may be time for a replacement, even if it appears to be working fine.
Physical Damage: Rust, corrosion, or visible damage are clear indicators that a replacement is necessary.
Performance Issues: Frequent tripping, arcing, or strange noises from the panel are warning signs of potential failure.

Sometimes you may have enough capacity, but lack space. Things to consider in the Baltimore area included a panel that has been recalled such as Zinsco or Federal Pacific, the panel is arcing or tripping sporadically, there is rust or corrosion, or it’s old and brittle.

Why Consider Upgrading or Replacing Your Electrical Panel?

Enhanced Safety is the #1 reason to consider an upgrade or replacement.

- Preventing Electrical Fires: Modern panels come with improved safety features, reducing the risk of electrical fires caused by faulty wiring or overloaded circuits.
- Compliance with Codes: Upgrading ensures compliance with current electrical codes, which may have changed since your original panel was installed.
- Eliminating Hazardous Brands: Panels from brands like Zinsco or Federal Pacific are notorious for safety issues and should be replaced to avoid potential hazards.

Increased Home Value is another reason to upgrade or replace your electrical panel.

Market Appeal: Upgrading the electrical panel can increase the value of your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers who are looking for modern, safe electrical systems.
Insurance Benefits: Some insurance companies may offer lower premiums for homes with updated electrical systems, considering them less risky.

You will also receive improved performance.

Consistent Power Supply: An upgraded panel can handle the increased demand from modern appliances, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply without frequent tripping.
Future-Proofing: Preparing your home for future electrical needs, such as renewable energy systems (solar panels) or advanced home automation systems.

Cost Considerations

Panel Replacement: Typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,500, depending on the panel’s capacity and features.
Service Upgrade: Can range from $2,500 to $5,000 or more, especially if extensive rewiring or additional work is needed.
Additional Costs: Permit fees, labor costs, and potential upgrades to wiring and grounding systems can add to the overall expense.

Not Sure What You Need?

If you’re unsure which you need, we do a load calculation for you, totally free!

Photo Evaluation: Send us photos of your current panel for an initial assessment.
On-Site Inspection: For a more accurate evaluation, an on-site inspection by a licensed electrician is recommended.