Reliable And Efficient
Reliable And Efficient | Electric Panel Upgrades | Electrical | Manchester
When lights flicker, breakers trip, or new high-demand appliances strain your system, HEP is the Manchester team you can count on for safe, code-compliant electric panel upgrades. Our certified electricians arrive on time, evaluate your home’s current capacity, and install modern breaker panels that distribute power efficiently, reduce fire risks, and leave room for future expansions—all while respecting your schedule and your property.
From heritage terraces to contemporary builds, we use premium components, transparent pricing, and meticulous workmanship to deliver a seamless experience backed by industry-leading warranties. Enjoy peace of mind, lower downtime, and the confidence to plug in anything from EV chargers to smart-home hubs; book your upgrade today and let HEP energise your home for the decades ahead.
FAQs
Why should I upgrade my electrical panel?
An upgraded panel increases the amount of safe, usable power in your home or business. Modern panels are designed to handle today’s higher electrical loads (EV chargers, heat-pumps, induction hobs, smart tech) without tripping breakers or overheating. A new panel also improves fire safety, reduces nuisance outages, and adds resale value because it complies with the latest BS 7671 wiring regulations.
How can I tell if my Manchester property needs a panel upgrade?
Common warning signs include frequently tripped breakers, flickering lights when large appliances start, warm or buzzing breaker slots, evidence of corrosion, the presence of old fuse boxes, or a panel rated under 100 amps. If you plan major renovations, install an electric vehicle charger, or add significant new appliances, a professional assessment is advisable even if problems are not yet evident.
What is the typical process for an electric panel upgrade?
1) Site survey and load calculation to size the new panel. 2) Quotation and scheduling, including liaison with Electricity North West (the local DNO) if the service head or mains tails also need upgrading. 3) Permit application to Manchester City Council Building Control, followed by notification to your energy supplier. 4) Installation day: power is isolated, the old unit is removed, new consumer unit and RCD/RCBO protection are fitted, circuits are tested and labelled. 5) Final inspection and issuing of an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) plus Part P notification. Most residential upgrades take 4–8 hours, with power off for 2–4 hours.
Will an upgraded panel improve energy efficiency or just capacity?
Primarily, a new panel increases capacity and safety, but efficiency gains come indirectly: (a) tighter connections and modern breakers reduce heat losses, (b) the ability to add dedicated circuits prevents voltage drop that makes appliances run less efficiently, and (c) you can integrate energy-saving technology—solar PV inverters, smart meters, load-shedding devices—without overloading the system.
Are permits and inspections required for panel upgrades in Manchester?
Yes. In England, replacing a consumer unit is ‘notifiable work’ under Part P of the Building Regulations. A registered electrician (NICEIC, NAPIT or ELECSA) can self-certify and notify Building Control on your behalf. If the main service fuse or meter tails are changed, Electricity North West must be notified as well. A completion certificate and EIC should be provided to you for insurance and resale purposes.
How much does an electric panel upgrade cost and what affects the price?
In Greater Manchester, a straightforward swap to a modern 10–12 way RCBO consumer unit typically runs £650–£950 all-in. Costs rise to £1,200–£2,000 if the incoming service, earthing system, or meter position must be altered. Key factors include panel size (number of ways and RCBO vs. dual RCD), accessibility of the existing board, required remedial work on circuits, permit/notification fees, and whether the DNO needs to uprate the service head to 100 amps or 3-phase.