Outdated Electrical Panels
Outdated Electrical Panels | Electric Panel Upgrades | Electrical | Etowah
The charm of Etowah’s older homes can hide a serious danger: outdated breaker boxes straining under today’s power-hungry appliances. Flickering lights, tripped breakers, or warm panel covers are more than annoyances—they’re red flags that your electrical system may be putting your family and your investment at risk. HEP’s certified electricians specialize in diagnosing these hidden hazards and bringing your home up to modern safety codes with minimal disruption to your daily routine.
From the first phone call to the final inspection, you’ll feel the HEP difference—prompt scheduling, transparent estimates, and workmanship backed by solid warranties. Our electric panel upgrades replace obsolete fuse boxes and undersized breaker panels with robust, code-compliant systems that can handle everything from HVAC units to future EV chargers. Stay safe, power every room with confidence, and add value to your Etowah home by letting HEP give your electrical system the fresh start it deserves.
FAQs
Why should I upgrade my outdated electrical panel?
Older panels were not designed to handle today’s high demand for electricity. Upgrading reduces the risk of fires caused by overloaded circuits, eliminates nuisance breaker trips, accommodates new appliances or EV chargers, and brings your home up to current National Electrical Code standards, which can also lower insurance premiums and increase resale value.
What are common signs that my electrical panel needs to be replaced?
Warning signs include frequent breaker trips, lights dimming when large appliances start, warm or discolored panel covers, a burning smell near the panel, fuse-based systems instead of breakers, rust or corrosion inside the box, and a panel rating below 100 amps. If your home still has a Federal Pacific, Zinsco, Sylvania, or Bulldog Pushmatic panel, replacement is strongly recommended due to known safety defects.
How much does an electrical panel upgrade cost in Etowah?
Prices vary with amperage, grounding upgrades, and any service mast or meter base changes. In Etowah, most 200-amp panel replacements range from $1,800 to $3,500, including permits and basic rewiring. Adding whole-home surge protection, AFCI/GFCI breakers, or relocating the panel will increase the total. A site visit is the best way to receive an accurate, itemized quote.
Will I need a permit and inspection for a panel replacement?
Yes. The City of Etowah and McMinn County require an electrical permit for any service equipment change. A licensed electrician will obtain the permit, coordinate with the local utility to disconnect power, perform the upgrade, and call for a final inspection. Passing inspection ensures the work meets NEC safety requirements and allows the utility to reconnect service promptly.
How long does an electrical panel upgrade take and will I lose power during the process?
A typical like-for-like replacement takes 4–8 hours. Power is shut off while the old panel is removed and new breakers, grounding, and bonding are installed. Most homeowners experience one business day without electricity; we recommend planning refrigeration needs and arranging remote work alternatives in advance. Complex projects that involve service relocation or wiring corrections may extend into a second day.
Can I replace my electrical panel myself or should I hire a licensed electrician?
Panel replacement involves working with live service conductors, strict code adherence, and utility coordination. In Tennessee, it is illegal for an unlicensed individual to perform this work on a residential property they do not own, and even owner-occupants risk serious injury, fire hazards, and insurance voidance. Hiring a licensed, insured electrician protects you with professional workmanship, proper permitting, and a workmanship warranty.