Electrical panel replacement is important for your home’s safety and energy efficiency. Never ignore the signs of a damaged electrical panel. So, if you’re a homeowner considering replacing your electrical panel, you’re at the right place.
This guide will help you estimate electrical panel replacement cost. Identify factors that affect the cost to replace the electrical panel. Understand the depth of the expenses including while replacing the electrical panel.
Average Cost of Electrical Panel Replacement
If your electrical panel is damaged or not meeting your house’s electricity needs, you should replace it ASAP. These panels are important to protect homes from electricity fires and other electricity problems.
Electrical panel replacement costs about $1,300 to $5,000 on average. However, this is just a rough estimate. The total cost will depend upon the condition of the existing panel and how much improvement it needs. Factors like type of equipment, materials, location, and labor affect the electrical panel replacement cost.
Here are some general estimates:
Basic upgrade: Replacing an older panel with a similar one can cost between $1,500 to $4,000.
Moderate replacement: Upgrading to a modern panel with increased capacity may cost between $2,500 to $6,000.
Comprehensive rewiring: If your home requires extensive rewiring along with the panel replacement, the cost can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more
Factors that Affect Electrical Panel Replacement Cost
Panel Relocation
If you want to change the location of the electric panel to a new spot in your house, this will increase the price. Relocating the panel requires more work from the electrician. It includes extending wires or including new ones. It’s more labor-intensive and time-consuiming, which can grow the total price.
Age and Condition of Existing Electrical Work
If your home is older or the wiring is in a bad situation, it might need upgrades or improvements before installing a new panel. Fixing or replacing existing wiring adds to the general fee. However, it is important to ensure that your new panel works correctly and effectively.
Trenching
If your electrical panel is far from the power source, the electrician may need to dig a trench to run new wires. This technique can increase the cost as it includes more labor and probably extra permits.
The amperage of the New Box
The size of the new electrical panel, measured in amperes (amps), will affect the cost. Upgrading to a panel with a better amperage, around 100 amps to 200 amps, will generally cost more. A large panel can handle more power. It is frequently needed for large homes or if you plan to feature new home equipment.
Labor
Labor fees make up a huge part of the total cost. It includes the amount of labor the electrician needs to do. This labor consists of upgrading or improvements, and the complexity of the job. Highly skilled electricians might charge more, but their work ensures the job is executed thoroughly and successfully.
| FACTOR | AVERAGE COST |
| Panel Relocation | $500 – $1,500 |
| Condition of Existing Electrical Work | Depending on the condition |
| Trenching | $500 – $2,000 |
| amperage of the New Box | $500 – $1,500 |
| Labor | $1,000 – $3,000 |
Electrical Panel Replacement Cost Breakdown
Replacing an electrical panel involves more than just swapping out the box. Several components and tasks contribute to the overall cost. Here’s a breakdown of what goes into the price.
Meter Box
The meter box measures how much electricity your home uses. If it is old or incompatible with your new panel, you need to update it. It is not always necessary, but upgrading the meter box can ensure that the system is working efficiently.
Circuit Breaker Switch
The circuit breaker is a key a part of your electrical panel. It cuts energy when there’s an electrical issue to prevent fires or harm. When changing your panel, new circuit breaker switches can be required. Especially if you’re upgrading to deal with more power, you must install a circuit breaker.
Subpanels
Some houses have subpanels that help distribute energy to specific areas, like a storage room or garage. If you want to install or upgrade a subpanel along with the main electrical panel, this can increase the cost. Subpanels are beneficial for managing extra power needs.
Drywall Repairs
During the electrical panel replacement, the electrician may additionally need to cut into your walls to get access to the wiring. After the task is done, you might need to restore or patch the drywall. This adds a small but important expense to the total cost.
Permit Fees
Replacing an electrical panel usually requires a permit from your local government. It is important to ensure that the task is done safely. Permit fees vary depending on where you live, but they are essential to complete your task without any hassle. Search for the permit while planning the replacement and add this fee to your total budget.
| COST FACTOR | AVERAGE COST |
| Meter Box | $200 – $500 |
| Circuit Breaker Switch | $50 – $200 per switch |
| Subpanels | $500 – $1,500 per subpanel |
| Drywall Repairs | $500 – $1,500 |
| Permit Fees | Vary with location |
Signs You Need to Replace Your Electrical Panel
Frequent tripped breakers – If your circuit breakers trip often, it could be a sign your panel can’t handle the electrical load.
Flickering lights – Lights that flicker or dim might mean your panel is struggling to provide enough power.
Burning smell or scorch marks – Any sign of burning or scorch marks near your panel is a serious safety concern and means you need a replacement.
Outdated panel – Older homes with panels over 20-30 years old may not meet modern electrical needs and should be upgraded.
Adding new appliances – If you’re installing high-powered appliances or expanding your home, your current panel may need to be replaced to handle the extra load.
Conclusion
Electrical panel replacement costs about $1,300 to $5,000 on average. However, this is just a rough estimate. The total cost will depend upon the condition of the existing panel and how much improvement it needs.
It is recommended to consult an electrician. He will see the condition of your existing panel and then give you an estimated budget.
