Replacing the main electrical panel in a house typically isn't all that difficult, but it is a job that should only be done by a licensed electrician. An improperly installed electrical panel is a major fire hazard.
Yes, a homeowner can technically replace an electrical panel, but it often requires a permit and inspection. Due to safety risks and code requirements, many areas recommend or require that this work be done by a licensed electrician.
How long does it take to change an electrical panel? Replacing the panel itself takes four to eight hours of work by a professional. However, if associated wiring and related components also require replacement, the labor time increases to 20 to 30 hours.
How Much Does an Electric Panel Upgrade Cost? The average cost of an electric panel replacement is between $850 and $2,500. This range is a little large because it depends on how many amps your house needs, and also if you are replacing an existing panel or installing one brand new.
While you can replace a circuit breaker yourself if you have electrical expertise and are familiar with local regulations, hiring a licensed electrician is often safer and more practical.
Undertaking the upgrade of your electrical panel requires obtaining an appropriate permit to ensure that all electrical work complies with safety standards and the electrical code. This includes work involving the breaker box, which is crucial for ensuring compliance with safety standards.
Circuit breakers are fairly inexpensive and easy to replace yourself—as long as you have an understanding of electrical wiring and feel comfortable working without a safety cover. If you feel nervous or have an older circuit breaker, it's best to call a professional who can safely navigate the risk of shock.
Electrical panels are typically covered by your homeowners policy if the damage is the result of a "sudden and accidental" loss caused by a peril, such as a fire or lightning. However, you typically won't be covered if the damage is the result of age or improper maintenance.
Generally speaking, electrical panels need to be replaced every 25 to 40 years. Therefore, if you're living in an older home, there's a higher likelihood that you'll need to replace your breaker panel.
Average Hourly Rates
Typically, electricians charge between $50 and $100 per hour. But the first hour might cost more, about $150, due to initial setup and travel. In emergencies, expect to double the rate to $100–$200 per hour.
And yes, updating your electrical system can boost your home's value, safety, and appeal to buyers. Electrical upgrades, like grounded outlets and GFCI protection, provide safety and save money. Panel upgrades and rewiring also help.
Unbeknownst to many homeowners, the average lifespan of an electrical panel is only 20 - 50 years. So if you live in an older home, you should have your electrical system inspected, as your panel may not be suited to handle modern electrical needs.
In many cases, you can upgrade your electrical panel without the need for a full house rewire. However, every home is unique, and it's essential to consult with our team of experts to assess your specific situation.
However, doing so exposes you to a significant risk of electrical shock, injury, or even death. For this reason, professional electricians and safety experts strongly recommend turning off the main breaker before attempting any work on electrical panels.
While some breakers are interchangeable, many are not, even if they look the same. Replacing one brand of breaker with another can be dangerous, may void your breaker or panel warranty, and may lead to a failed electrical inspection.
Depending on the size of the panel you need, you should plan on spending $250 to $450 for the panel itself. Installation and labor costs are separate. Labor for upgrading your electrical panel can cost anywhere from $1,000 to over $3,000 depending on the complexity of your installation.
It will normally take two electricians somewhere between four and eight hours to remove the old panel, install the new one, and then wire all of the circuits into the new electrical panel. If only one electrician is performing the work, it could potentially take anywhere from two to four days instead.
Flickering or Dimming Lights
Flickering or dimming lights are a sign that there's a problem with your home's electric system. Depending on how this is happening, you may need a circuit breaker panel replacement. If you have one light that flickers every once in a while, then it's probably just an issue with its wiring.
Often homeowners love to do their projects. However, upgrading your electrical panel or simply replacing your breaker box not only requires a permit but should be done by a professional electrician. If you aren't sure who to call, reach out to your local home inspection team.
Non-insurable electrical panels include: Federal Pacific – They are linked to numerous electrical fires due to faulty manufacturing and design. Zinsco/Sylvania – They have been known to have a failure of the internal connections in their circuit breakers that can lead to overloading, arcing, melting, and possible fire.
Does My Homeowners Insurance Cover Electrical Problems? Electrical problems to your existing wiring are typically covered by your homeowners insurance policy unless you have two older types of wiring: knob and tube or aluminum wiring.
Every trip subjects the breaker to mechanical and thermal stress. MCBs are designed to handle a limited number of trips, typically ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 mechanical operations under normal conditions.
The answer: It's possible, but not advisable without an electrician evaluating the situation. You should never just upgrade from a 15-amp breaker to a 20-amp one just because the current one is tripping. Otherwise, you may burn your house down via electrical fire.