Commitment To Quality
Commitment To Quality | Electric Panel Upgrades | Electrical | Lynchburg
From historic Rivermont homes to bustling Cornerstone condos, Lynchburg property owners turn to HEP when they need reliable electric panel upgrades that keep pace with modern power demands. Our certified electricians don’t just swap parts—they perform thorough load calculations, inspect every connection, and install top-quality breakers and surge protection so your lights stay bright, your appliances run safely, and your insurance company stays happy.
HEP’s commitment to craftsmanship shows in every detail: shoe-covers on our boots, transparent pricing before we lift a screwdriver, and a workmanship guarantee that follows us long after the service van pulls away. Whether you’re adding a hot tub, finishing a basement, or simply tired of tripped breakers, we deliver code-compliant solutions powered by courtesy, experience, and a deep respect for your home and schedule.
FAQs
Why might I need an electric panel upgrade in my Lynchburg home?
Older panels (typically 25–40 years old) were not designed for today’s electrical demand—high-efficiency HVAC systems, EV chargers, smart appliances, and home offices all draw more current than the original panel was sized for. An undersized or outdated panel can overheat, trip breakers constantly, or even create a fire hazard. Upgrading to a modern 200-amp (or higher) service gives your home the capacity it needs, brings you up to the latest National Electrical Code (NEC) standards adopted by the City of Lynchburg, and protects sensitive electronics from voltage drops.
How can I tell if my current electrical panel is unsafe or overloaded?
Warning signs include frequent breaker trips, flickering lights when large appliances start, warm or buzzing breakers, a burning smell near the panel, or evidence of corrosion. Panels branded Zinsco, Federal Pacific (FPE), or Pushmatic have known safety defects and should be replaced. If your panel still uses screw-in fuses instead of breakers or provides less than 100 amps of service, it no longer meets code for most Lynchburg residences and should be evaluated by a licensed electrician.
What benefits does a modern breaker panel offer over my old fuse box?
A new breaker panel provides higher amperage capacity, improved short-circuit protection, space for future circuits (EV chargers, hot tubs, add-ons), and the option to install arc-fault and ground-fault breakers that greatly reduce fire and shock risks. Today’s panels also accommodate whole-home surge protection devices that guard electronics against lightning strikes—important in Central Virginia’s storm-prone climate. In many cases, upgrading can reduce homeowner-insurance premiums and boost resale value.
How long does a typical panel upgrade take and will I be without power?
For a standard single-family home, a complete panel replacement generally takes 6–8 hours. Power is shut off during the change-over, but we coordinate with AEP and the City of Lynchburg to minimize downtime—often restoring service the same day. If extensive rewiring or a meter base relocation is required, the project may extend to two days; we provide temporary power solutions for critical loads like medical equipment or refrigeration when necessary.
Do I need permits and inspections for a panel upgrade in Lynchburg, VA?
Yes. The City of Lynchburg requires an electrical permit any time the service equipment (panel, meter base, service entrance conductors) is replaced or upgraded. After the work is complete, a city inspector must approve the installation before the utility will re-energize the service. Our team handles the entire permitting process, schedules inspections, and provides you with a copy of the approved permit for your records.
Why should I choose your company for my panel upgrade rather than a general handyman?
We are state-licensed Class A electrical contractors, fully insured, and our electricians undergo continual NEC and safety training. We use only UL-listed panels and breakers from reputable manufacturers, provide a 5-year workmanship warranty, and offer transparent, upfront pricing—no surprise add-ons. Because we’re based in Lynchburg, we’re familiar with local code amendments and have established relationships with city inspectors and AEP service crews, ensuring your project moves quickly and passes inspection the first time.