Updated November 2, 2026 · Reviewed for accuracy by a licensed Uniform electrical contractor before publication
Signs it's worth an evaluation
- Frequent trips or a warm, buzzing panel
- No space for new circuits
- Adding an EV charger, pool heater, generator or larger AC
- An insurer or inspector flagged the panel
- Corrosion or water damage
The process
Evaluation
Condition of the panel, service and grounding.
Load calculation
What the home uses and what you plan to add.
Written options
Replacement, service upgrade, subpanel or load management.
Permit and utility
The licensed contractor pulls the permit and coordinates with the utility.
Installation and inspection
A short planned outage, then testing, labeling and inspection.
100 to 200 amps?
It depends on the load calculation, not a rule of thumb. Some homes need more service; others need better load management.
Questions to ask a contractor
- Is your business qualified by a licensed electrical contractor?
- Will you pull the permit?
- Is the utility involved, and how long is the outage?
- Is surge protection included or optional?
- What does the warranty cover?