Do I need to upgrade my Electrical Panel or my Electrical Service?

Let’s break down the terms and explain when each service is needed.

A Panel Replacement involves removing an old or unsafe electrical panel (sometimes called a fuse box) and replacing it with a modern one. However, it doesn’t increase the total electrical capacity of your home.

A Service Upgrade means installing a new meter and a new panel with a higher capacity (measured in amps). This provides more power to your home.

Key Difference:
A service upgrade is more expensive because it requires more work and additional parts.

You need a panel replacement if:

• Your panel is outdated or unsafe but your current electrical capacity is still enough for your needs.
• Your meter is in good condition and doesn’t need to be replaced.

Common Unsafe Panels:
Some old panel brands are known for failure and fire hazards, including:

• Federal Pacific Electric (FPE): Breakers have orange handles.
• Zinsco: Breakers are multicolored and aligned in a single vertical row.
• Pushmatic: Breakers push in and out to switch.

These panels are often recalled, and many home insurance companies won’t insure homes that have them.

Other Signs You Need a Panel Replacement:

• Circuit breakers frequently trip.
• Lights flicker.
• There’s a burning smell near the panel.

These issues suggest your panel might be overloaded, have loose connections, or contain damaged components.

WARNING:

This is by no means a complete list of signs and should not be use as instruction manual for an untrained persons. This post is written with a sole purpose to educate an average homeowner. 

Please get help from a qualified electrician, who will look at your specific situation in person and will be able to give proper recommendations!