Electrical System
Electrical System | Electric Panel Upgrades | Electrical | La Follette
La Follette’s homes and businesses run on more power-hungry appliances than ever, but many still depend on outdated breaker boxes installed decades ago. HEP’s certified electricians specialize in electric panel upgrades that replace undersized, overloaded, or obsolete panels with modern, code-compliant systems designed for today’s energy demands. From pinpointing hidden hazards like scorched bus bars to adding whole-home surge protection, we make sure your new panel delivers steady, reliable power while boosting resale value and lowering the risk of electrical fires.
Every upgrade is backed by transparent, upfront pricing and the HEP “Happy VIPeople” guarantee, meaning we’re not finished until you’re thrilled with the results. We handle permits, coordinate utility shut-offs, and leave your space cleaner than we found it—all on a schedule that respects your routine. If dimming lights, tripping breakers, or a lack of available circuits are slowing you down, trust HEP to bring peace-of-mind power to your La Follette property today.
FAQs
What are the most common signs that my La Follette home needs an electric panel upgrade?
Frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, warm breaker switches, a burning odor near the panel, or the presence of a fuse box instead of breakers all indicate that your existing panel is overloaded or outdated. If you have recently added high-demand appliances—such as HVAC systems, hot tubs, or EV chargers—or plan a major renovation, an upgrade is likely necessary to handle the increased electrical load safely.
How does upgrading my electric panel improve safety and reliability?
Modern panels are designed with enhanced safety features, including arc-fault and ground-fault protection, which reduce the risk of electrical fires and shock. An upgraded panel distributes power more evenly, preventing overheating and nuisance breaker trips, and it provides capacity for future circuits. This reliability helps protect sensitive electronics, lowers the chance of power interruptions, and ensures your system meets current National Electrical Code (NEC) standards.
What is involved in the electric panel upgrade process?
1. Evaluation: A licensed La Follette electrician inspects your existing service, calculates load requirements, and determines the right panel size (typically 200 amps for modern homes). 2. Permitting: We obtain the necessary permits from Campbell County or La Follette city authorities. 3. Utility Coordination: The power company schedules a temporary disconnect while the upgrade is performed. 4. Installation: The old panel is removed, new wiring and grounding are installed as needed, and the new panel is mounted and labeled. 5. Inspection & Re-energizing: A local inspector verifies code compliance before the utility restores power. Most upgrades are completed within one day, though extensive rewiring can add time.
Will I need to upgrade my service entrance or meter base too?
If your current service entrance cable or meter base is rated below the new panel’s amperage (for instance, 100-amp service feeding a 200-amp panel), both will need upgrading to maintain safety and pass inspection. During our assessment we verify conductor sizes, grounding electrode systems, and bonding to determine if ancillary components must be replaced along with the panel.
How much does an electric panel upgrade cost in La Follette?
Costs vary based on amperage, panel brand, wiring complexity, and whether service entrance or meter upgrades are required. In La Follette, a straightforward 200-amp panel replacement typically ranges from $1,800 to $3,000, including permits and inspection fees. Projects involving extensive rewiring, surge protection, or generator interlocks can push costs to $4,000 or more. We provide a detailed, itemized quote after an on-site evaluation.
Do I need a licensed electrician, or can I upgrade the panel myself?
Tennessee law and most homeowners’ insurance policies require that service upgrades be done by a state-licensed electrical contractor. Working inside the main service equipment involves live conductors that can cause severe injury or death, and improper installation may void insurance or hamper resale. Hiring a qualified La Follette electrician ensures code compliance, proper permitting, and a warranty on workmanship, providing peace of mind and long-term safety.