Panel Upgrades

Safe, Code-Compliant Panel Upgrades by an Experienced Electrician
Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s power system. If it’s outdated, overloaded, or showing signs of wear, it could lead to performance issues—or serious safety risks. Bob’s Electrical provides expert panel upgrades across North Bend and The Valley, helping homeowners replace old fuse boxes, small-capacity panels, or unsafe breakers with modern, code-compliant systems built for today’s electrical demands.
With over 35 years of real-world residential experience, Bob personally assesses your current setup, explains your upgrade options, and completes the job with precision and care. Whether your lights flicker under load, your breakers trip too often, or you’re adding high-draw appliances like hot tubs or EV chargers, we’ll make sure your panel can handle the job—safely and reliably.
Benefits of Upgrading Your Electrical Panel
Investing in a panel upgrade not only increases safety—it improves performance, efficiency, and your home’s resale value. Key benefits include:
- Increased Capacity: Handle modern appliances, EV chargers, hot tubs, or future expansions
- Improved Safety: Eliminate overloaded circuits, loose connections, and outdated breakers
- Code Compliance: Meet today’s electrical standards for insurance and real estate
- More Circuit Space: Add new lighting, outlets, or dedicated appliance circuits without overloading
- Peace of Mind: Know your home’s electrical foundation is strong and reliable
Bob ensures every upgrade is tailored to your current and future needs—not oversold, and never underdone.
Signs You May Need a Panel Upgrade
Not sure if your panel is up to the task? Here are the most common indicators that your electrical service may need to be updated:
- Breakers that trip repeatedly, even under normal load
- Fuse-based systems or panels over 30 years old
- Not enough breaker space to add new circuits
- Buzzing or warm panel covers
- Flickering or dimming lights when other appliances run
- Recent additions: hot tub, EV charger, HVAC, or home remodel
- Insurance or home inspector requiring an upgrade for sale/refinance
- Outdated brands with known defects (e.g., Federal Pacific, Zinsco)
Bob thoroughly inspects your panel, wiring, and grounding to determine whether an upgrade is needed and provides a clear, honest quote with no pressure.
What’s Included in a Panel Upgrade?
A proper panel upgrade involves more than just swapping a box. Bob’s Electrical provides comprehensive panel replacement services that include:
- Removal of old panel, breakers, and wiring
- Installation of a new panel rated for 100A, 150A, or 200A depending on load needs
- Upgrading the main service entrance cable if necessary
- Proper grounding and bonding per National Electrical Code
- Arc fault (AFCI) and ground fault (GFCI) protection as required
- Reconnecting existing circuits safely and clearly labeled
- Inspection prep if permits are pulled
- Full system testing and voltage checks before handoff
All panels installed by Bob are UL-listed, weather-rated if needed, and come with manufacturer warranties.
Subpanel Installation Services
In homes with additions, detached garages, or limited panel space, a subpanel may be the best solution. Bob installs subpanels to extend service safely and reduce circuit crowding in the main panel. Subpanels are ideal for:
- Garages or workshops needing dedicated power
- Basement remodels with heavy electrical use
- EV charging stations
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
- Outdoor kitchens, hot tubs, or saunas
Subpanel installs include full grounding, labeling, and code-compliant connections.
Panel Work for Remodels and New Builds
If you’re remodeling your home, finishing a basement, or starting new construction, your panel may need to be upgraded or relocated. Bob works closely with contractors to ensure:
- Proper load calculations for all planned electrical usage
- Smart circuit layout to minimize breaker tripping
- Integration of lighting, appliance, HVAC, and special system circuits
- Room to grow—space left in panel for future expansion
- Inspection-ready installations that pass the first time
Our panel work supports the entire scope of your project—not just what’s needed today.
Replacement of Problematic Panels
Some older panel brands are known fire hazards and should be replaced immediately. Bob replaces dangerous and outdated models including:
- Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) / Stab-Lok
- Zinsco / GTE-Sylvania
- Pushmatic / Bulldog panels
- Fuse boxes with screw-in fuses and no main shut-off
These panels have failed safety tests and are often red flags during home inspections. Bob provides safe, modern replacements that meet all current standards.
Schedule Your Panel Upgrade Today
Don’t wait until your panel fails. If you’re experiencing electrical issues—or planning for future additions—Bob’s Electrical can help you upgrade your system the right way. We’ll walk you through every option, explain the process, and make sure your power system is built to last.