Replacing the main electrical panel in your home is an important project that requires proper planning, precautions, and adherence to electrical codes and safety standards. Improper electrical work can result in electrocution, fires, and damage to your home's electrical system. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to safely replace your home's main electrical panel.

Reasons for Replacing the Main Panel

There are several reasons why you may need to replace the main electrical panel in your home:

Outdated Equipment

• If your home's electrical panel is more than 40 years old, it is likely outdated and insufficient for your home's current electrical needs. Older panels may not be able to handle increased electrical loads from new appliances and devices.

• Upgrading to a new 200 amp panel provides more capacity and allows you to add new circuits.

Safety Issues

• Faulty or damaged breakers in an older panel can fail to trip and lead to overloaded circuits and fire hazards. Replacing them reduces risks.

• Poor grounding in old panels can lead to shock and electrocution hazards. A new panel will meet grounding codes.

• Aluminum wiring in some older homes needs special treatment to be safe. Upgrading the panel facilitates needed wiring replacements.

Insufficient Circuits

• If your home lacks enough circuits, you likely experience frequent tripped breakers. A new panel provides more circuit capacity.

• New additions like hot tubs, EV chargers, and renovations may require new dedicated circuits only a panel upgrade can provide.

Preparing for a Main Panel Replacement

Replacing the main electrical panel is not a small job. Careful planning and preparation is required to ensure success and safety.

Research Local Permit Requirements

• Most local building codes require a permit for main panel replacements. Research permit costs and paperwork requirements.

• Any electrical contractor you hire should be familiar with local permit rules and obtain the permit on your behalf.

Select an Appropriate New Panel

• Consult with electricians to determine the appropriate panel type and amperage for your home.

• Consider how your home's electrical needs may grow in the future when selecting a new panel.

Find a Licensed Electrical Contractor

• Only hire a licensed, insured electrician or electrical contractor to replace your main panel.

• Ask for multiple quotes and verify they have experience with main panel installations.

• Check reviews and references to select a reputable contractor.

Schedule Panel Replacement

• Factor in time for obtaining the permit, ordering the new panel, and scheduling the contracted electrician.

• To avoid power interruptions, arrange to have the new panel installed when you can be away from home for 6-8 hours.

• Ask your electrician how long the install will take and plan accordingly.

Prepare Your Home

• Clear a 3 foot area in front of the existing panel to provide working space.

• Turn off or disconnect appliances and devices that may trip breakers during the work.

• Review what to turn back on once the new panel is installed.

Step-by-Step Main Panel Replacement

Once proper planning and preparations are complete, you are ready for the main panel upgrade. Follow these key steps to safely replace your electrical panel:

Shut Off Main Power

• The electrician will first shut off the main breaker to de-energize the panel.

• They should then double check for power using a non-contact voltage tester.

Remove Old Panel

• The wiring connections to the old panel are carefully disconnected.

• The old panel is unmounted and detached from the home.

Install New Panel

• The new panel is aligned and mounted securely where the old panel was located.

• It should match the existing electrical system (240 volt, 120 volt, etc).

Connect Wiring

• Following code standards, the electrician connects the home's wiring to the new panel's circuit breakers.

• New grounding and bonding connections are completed per code.

Inspect and Verify

• With the panel remounted and wiring transferred, the electrician will inspect all connections.

• They conduct testing to verify proper operation and ensure safety.

Obtain Final Inspection

• After completion, the electrical contractor arranges the final permit inspection.

• The inspector examines work and deems it in compliance with electrical code.

Restore Power and Verify Operation

• Once approved, the main breaker is turned on to restore power to the new panel.

• Test appliances and devices to ensure proper function across circuits.

Following safe procedures and using a licensed electrician protects your home during a major electrical upgrade like a main panel replacement. Take time to maintain the new panel according to manufacturer guidelines for ongoing safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to replace an electrical panel?

The average cost to replace an electrical panel ranges from $1,100 to $3,000, with most homeowners paying $1,500 to $2,000. The exact cost depends on the amperage, type of replacement panel, number of circuits, local electrician rates, and complexity of the installation.

Can I change the electrical panel myself?

Electrical panel replacement is complex and potentially dangerous. Always hire a licensed electrician to ensure the work meets local codes and is completed safely. Attempting a DIY panel replacement risks electrocution, fire, and major home electrical damage.

What are signs I need a new electrical panel?

Frequent tripped breakers, outdated panel and wiring, warm or scorched breakers, flickering lights, and lack of capacity for additions all indicate you may need a panel upgrade. Consult an electrician if you notice these or other unusual electrical issues.

Does homeowners insurance cover electrical panel replacement?

Most standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover electrical panel replacement. However, some policies provide electrical upgrade coverage or endorsements for additional premium costs. Check with your agent about policy upgrade options to cover a main panel replacement.

How long does it take to replace an electrical panel?

The overall project including planning and permitting can take 2-6 weeks. The actual panel replacement performed by an electrician typically takes 6-8 hours from start to finish, depending on your home's specifics. You will be without power during the work, so plan accordingly.