Electrical System
Electrical System | Electric Panel Upgrades | Electrical | Charleston
Is your Lowcountry home still relying on a fuse box or a breaker panel that trips at the first hint of a storm? HEP’s licensed electricians specialize in electric panel upgrades that give Charleston homeowners the power, safety, and capacity today’s tech-driven lifestyles demand. From evaluating your current load and correcting hidden code violations to installing surge protection and smart breakers, we streamline the entire process so you can add EV chargers, kitchen remodels, or backyard spas without a worry.
When you choose HEP, you’re getting punctual service, transparent pricing, and workmanship backed by decades of local experience. Our team secures permits, schedules inspections, and leaves your space spotless—usually in a single day—so the only thing you’ll notice is rock-solid, reliable electricity. Don’t let an outdated panel hold your home back; call HEP for electric panel upgrades and flip the switch on total peace of mind.
FAQs
Why would I need an electric panel upgrade for my Charleston home?
Older panels (typically 100 amps or less) were designed when homes had fewer appliances and no EV chargers, hot tubs, or high-efficiency HVAC systems. Upgrading to a modern 150- or 200-amp service increases the amount of safe, usable power, reduces nuisance breaker trips, improves resale value, and brings the system up to current National Electrical Code (NEC) and Charleston County requirements.
How can I tell if my existing panel is outdated or unsafe?
Common warning signs include frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, warm or discolored breaker slots, buzzing sounds, or a panel installed before 1990 that still uses fuses. Several brands—Federal Pacific (FPE), Zinsco, and certain Challenger/Sylvania models—have documented safety defects. A licensed Charleston electrician can perform a load calculation and thermal scan to confirm whether replacement is warranted.
What permits and inspections are required in Charleston for a panel upgrade?
Charleston County and the City of Charleston both require an electrical permit before any service change. Your electrician submits a load calculation, riser diagram, and panel schedule to the Building Inspection Services division. After installation, a county or city electrical inspector must approve the work; then Dominion Energy returns to reconnect power. Professional electricians handle all paperwork and coordination for you.
How long will my power be off during the upgrade?
Most single-family panel replacements take 6–8 hours. Power is typically disconnected for 4–6 of those hours while the old panel is removed, conductors are re-terminated, grounding is upgraded, and the new panel is inspected. Your electrician will schedule the outage with Dominion Energy and can provide temporary power solutions for critical medical or computer equipment if needed.
What size or type of panel should I choose to future-proof my home?
A 200-amp, 40-space/40-circuit mainstream load center meets the needs of most Charleston homes and leaves room for additions such as EV chargers, solar back-feed breakers, or accessory buildings. For maximum flexibility, many homeowners opt for a 225-amp bus panel with copper bus bars, surge protection, and plug-on neutral breakers. Your electrician will perform a load calculation and discuss planned upgrades to select the right capacity.
How much does an electric panel upgrade cost in Charleston, and are there incentives?
Prices vary with amperage, meter relocation, and grounding upgrades, but a typical 200-amp service change ranges from $2,000 to $3,500. Costs rise for multi-meter setups or if the service entrance conductors need replacement. Homeowners may qualify for a 30 % federal Residential Clean Energy tax credit when the new panel is installed to accommodate solar PV or battery storage. Dominion Energy also offers occasional rebates for whole-home surge protectors installed at the panel.