How to Replace an Outdated Load Center

Replacing an outdated load center is an important home improvement project that ensures your home's electrical system is safe, efficient, and up to code. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to replace a load center properly.

Reasons to Replace a Load Center

There are several reasons why you may need to replace your outdated load center:

Safety

• Older load centers can lack modern safety features like arc fault (AFCI) and ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) breakers. These prevent fires and shocks.

• Outdated panels may not have enough spaces or amperage capacity for your home's needs, forcing you to overload circuits. This is a fire hazard.

Efficiency

• Newer load centers allow for fuller use of available power from the utility company through features like subpanels.

• They have higher amperage capacity to run multiple high-draw appliances simultaneously.

Expanding Electrical Needs

• If you've added more circuits and appliances like air conditioners, EV chargers etc, your old panel may not be sufficient.

• A replacement will provide more spaces and amps to safely meet increased electrical demand.

Choosing a New Load Center

When selecting a new load center, consider the following:

• Number of circuits needed - Count all your existing circuits and leave room for expansion.

• Amperage rating - Match the incoming amperage from your electrical supply or higher. 100 amps is typical for homes.

• Safety features - Look for AFCI and GFCI breakers to protect against electrical fires and shocks.

• Main breaker - Helps you quickly shut off all power to the panel during emergencies.

• Aluminum vs copper bus bars - Copper bars are better conductors. Aluminum is acceptable for budget panels.

• Single phase vs three phase power - Most homes only need single phase. Three phase is for heavy duty commercial applications.

• Brand - Stick with reputable brands like Square D, Eaton, Siemens, GE etc.

Preparing for the Load Center Replacement

Before replacing the load center, you need to take some preparatory steps:

• Obtain permits - Most localities require permits for this project. Applying for one will involve submitting panel details and having an inspection scheduled.

• Turn off main breaker - Shut off all power to the existing panel before working on it.

• Take photos of existing wiring - This provides a reference to reconnect wires correctly in the new load center.

• Rent a voltage tester - Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm wires are de-energized before removal. Safety first!

• Clear access area - Remove obstructions around the existing panel to allow working room.

Step-by-Step Load Center Replacement

Ready to replace that old load center? Here is a step-by-step guide:

Disconnect and Remove the Old Load Center

1. Turn off the main breaker and all individual circuit breakers.

2. Remove the cover plate and take photos of all wire connections.

3. Disconnect all wires from breakers and neutral bars/ground bus bars.

4. Unscrew the panel from the wall and detach all conduits.

5. Carefully pull the old load center out of the electrical enclosure.

Install the New Load Center

1. Match the new panel size to the enclosure space. It should fit snugly.

2. Bolt the new panel securely into the metal enclosure.

3. Attach the conduit ports to the new panel.

4. Connect the neutral and ground wires to the appropriate bars.

5. Connect the incoming hot wires to the main breaker.

Connect the Circuits to Breakers

1. Refer to your photos and connect each hot wire to the matching circuit breaker.

2. Arrange circuits logically with lighting, outlets, appliances etc grouped.

3. Leave space for expansion and any new breakers needed.

4. Ensure all screw terminals are tight and wires secure.

Final Safety Checks

1. Double check no bare wire is exposed at connections.

2. Verify ground wire is properly bonded to the neutral bar.

3. Test GFCI and AFCI breakers using the test buttons.

4. Turn the main breaker on and test outlets & lights.

5. Replace the dead front cover plate.

6. Call the electrical inspector for a final check before using the new panel.

Replacing an antiquated load center provides safety for your family, protects your home from fire, and keeps your electrical system running efficiently. Follow this guide carefully and make sure to obtain permits and inspections. With proper precautions, you can upgrade your load center successfully!