Electrical Panel Upgrade: Everything Homeowners Need to Know

If your lights dim when you run the microwave, your breakers trip often, or you’re adding an electric vehicle charger, your electrical panel might be telling you it’s time for an upgrade.

An electrical panel upgrade is not just another home improvement project — it’s an investment in safety, functionality, and the ability to keep up with modern technology.

At DNZ Electrical Services, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Agoura Hills, Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, and across Ventura and Los Angeles Counties bring their electrical systems up to date. This guide will walk you through what a panel does, why upgrades are important, the warning signs you might need one, and what to expect during the process.

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What is an Electrical Panel?

Think of your electrical panel as the “traffic control center” for all the electricity in your home. Power from the utility company enters through this panel, then gets distributed to individual circuits. Each circuit is protected by a breaker that shuts off if there’s too much electricity flowing, preventing overheating or fire.

Older homes often have panels that were designed decades ago for smaller loads — maybe just a few lights, a refrigerator, and a TV. Today’s homes run multiple TVs, computers, central air systems, smart appliances, and even electric cars.

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Why Upgrading Your Electrical Panel is Important

An outdated or undersized panel can cause:

• Overloaded circuits that may overheat

• Frequent breaker trips when you use multiple appliances

• Flickering lights and inconsistent power

• Electrical code violations that can affect insurance or resale

• Fire hazards from worn components or loose connections

A modern panel solves these issues by:

• Providing enough power for all your devices and appliances

• Adding modern safety features like AFCIs and GFCIs

• Meeting or exceeding current National Electrical Code standards

• Giving you room for future upgrades like solar, battery storage, or EV charging

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Common Signs You Might Need a Panel Upgrade

• Breakers trip regularly or won’t reset

• Lights dim or flicker when high-power appliances run

• You smell burning or see scorch marks near the panel

• You still have a fuse box instead of circuit breakers

• Your home is 25–40+ years old with the original electrical system

• You are adding large appliances, a hot tub, EV charger, or solar system

• A home inspector, electrician, or insurance company recommends it

Pro Tip: Even if everything seems fine, it’s smart to have your panel inspected every 3–5 years, especially in older homes.

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How Much Does a Panel Upgrade Cost?

Every panel upgrade is different. The final price depends on factors like:

• The size (amperage) of the new panel – Most modern homes use at least 200 amps; larger homes or multiple EV chargers may require 300–400 amps.

• Condition of your current system – Older wiring or outdated grounding may need upgrades.

• Installation complexity – If the panel is hard to access or needs to be moved, the job takes more time.

• Extra work required – Upgrading the main service line, replacing the meter, or adding subpanels can add to the cost.

• Local permit and inspection requirements – Each city has its own rules and fees.

Because of these variables, we always recommend a full on-site assessment before giving a final estimate.

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The DNZ Electrical Services Upgrade Process

When you call DNZ Electrical Services, here’s what happens:

1.Assessment – We inspect your current panel, wiring, and overall system load.

2;Customized Plan – We recommend the right panel size and upgrades for your needs.

3.Permitting – We handle all permits with your city or county.

4.Utility Coordination – We work with the power company for any service changes.

5.Safe Installation – We replace the panel, install proper grounding, and label all circuits.

6.Final Inspection – The city inspector approves the work before power is restored.

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Extra Upgrades You Might Need Along the Way

During a panel upgrade, we may also recommend:

• Subpanel installation for garages, additions, or workshops

• Service line upgrades to handle higher capacity

• Meter box replacement if required by your utility company

• Panel relocation to meet accessibility codes

• Wiring upgrades if existing cables don’t meet safety standards

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Special Cases: EV Chargers and Solar Power

If you’re adding an electric vehicle charger, most Level 2 chargers need their own dedicated 30–50 amp circuit. Homes with more than one EV may need 300–400 amp service.

For solar panels, you may need extra space in your panel for the inverter and safety disconnects. A modern “smart” panel can even help you manage when and how you use solar energy, battery storage, and grid power.

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Choosing the Right Electrician for a Panel Upgrade

When hiring an electrician:

• Check licensing and insurance – California requires electricians to be licensed for this work.

• Look for local experience – Knowledge of Ventura and Los Angeles County codes is crucial.

• Read reviews – Look for a track record of reliability and safety.

• Ask for detailed written estimates – Avoid vague quotes; insist on clear pricing and timelines.

DNZ Electrical Services meets all of these standards and more. We also offer 24/7 emergency service and a commitment to quality that keeps our customers coming back.

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Serving Agoura Hills and Surrounding Communities

We proudly serve:

• Agoura Hills

• Thousand Oaks

• Westlake Village

• Oak Park

• Calabasas

• Woodland Hills

• Malibu

• Most of Ventura and Los Angeles Counties

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Contact DNZ Electrical Services Today

Upgrading your electrical panel is one of the smartest ways to protect your home, prepare for the future, and ensure you have the power you need.

📞 Call us today at 800-810-3935 to schedule your panel inspection and consultation.
🌐 Visit dnzpropertyservices.com to learn more about our services.

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