Seamless Panel Upgrades
Seamless Panel Upgrades | Electric Panel Upgrades | Electrical | Charleston
Whether your historic Charleston home needs more capacity for modern appliances or your business is expanding its tech footprint, HEP makes the transformation effortless. Our licensed electricians replace outdated breaker boxes with state-of-the-art load centers, streamline wiring, and label every circuit so you know exactly what powers what. From the first inspection to the final safety check, we schedule around your day, protect every surface, and leave the workspace spotless—so the only thing you’ll notice is smoother, safer power.
Choose HEP for electric panel upgrades that future-proof your property and meet Charleston’s latest code requirements. You’ll gain greater energy efficiency, room for smart-home additions, and the peace of mind that comes from surge protection and arc-fault defense. One call brings decades of local expertise, transparent pricing, and a workmanship guarantee that’s as solid as our reputation on the coast.
FAQs
How can I tell if my Charleston home needs an electrical panel upgrade?
Common warning signs include frequently tripped breakers, flickering lights, burning odors near the panel, warm breaker covers, a panel rated at 60–100 amps, or the presence of obsolete fuse boxes or brands such as Federal Pacific or Zinsco. If you are installing high-demand appliances (EV charger, hot tub, HVAC upgrade) or adding square footage, you will likely exceed the capacity of an older panel and should schedule an assessment.
What advantages will I see after replacing my old panel with a modern 200-amp service?
A new panel provides additional breaker spaces, higher amperage capacity, and tighter connections that reduce the risk of overheating or electrical fire. You’ll experience fewer nuisance trips, the ability to run multiple large appliances simultaneously, improved energy efficiency, and compliance with the latest National Electrical Code (NEC) and Charleston County building standards—often lowering homeowner-insurance premiums in the process.
How long does a panel upgrade take, and will my power be out the entire time?
Most residential panel upgrades are completed in one working day. Power is typically disconnected for 4–8 hours while our licensed electricians remove the old panel, upgrade service conductors, install the new load center, label circuits, and coordinate inspection. We schedule the utility disconnect/reconnect in advance to minimize downtime and restore essential circuits first when possible.
Do I need permits and inspections for an electric panel upgrade in Charleston?
Yes. The City of Charleston and Charleston County require an electrical permit for any service change. Our team handles the paperwork, coordinates with the local building department, and schedules the final inspection. Utility service (Dominion Energy South Carolina or Berkeley Electric) will only reconnect after the inspector affixes an approval sticker, ensuring your installation meets NEC 2023 requirements.
How much does a panel upgrade cost, and what factors influence the price?
In the Charleston market, a straightforward 200-amp panel replacement typically ranges from $2,000–$3,500. Costs rise if the service entrance cable, meter base, grounding electrode system, or main disconnect need replacement, or if the panel must be relocated to meet clearance rules. Homes with concealed wiring, masonry walls, or limited crawl-space access may also incur higher labor charges. A free on-site evaluation gives the most accurate estimate.
Will upgrading my electrical panel add value to my home?
Absolutely. Real-estate agents in the Lowcountry report that buyers view a modern panel as proof of a well-maintained, safe electrical system. An upgraded service can accommodate future renovations, EV charging, and solar interconnections—that translates to higher resale value and a smoother home inspection. Many insurers offer discounts for documented panel replacements, and some will not underwrite policies on homes with outdated fuse boxes, so the investment can pay for itself over time.