When and Why to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel
As a master electrician and the owner of Collective Electric, one of the most common questions I get from homeowners and small business owners across the Twin Cities is: “Do I really need to update my electrical panel?”
The short answer? If your panel is outdated, overloaded, or showing signs of wear, updating it isn’t just a good idea—it’s a smart, proactive investment in the safety, efficiency, and future-readiness of your home or building.
Here’s why my customers are choosing to maintain or upgrade their panels—and why you might want to consider it, too.
1. Safety Comes First
Old or damaged panels can pose serious safety risks, including electrical fires. In fact, some older panels—especially Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panels and Zinsco panels—are known for their history of malfunctioning breakers that fail to trip, even in overload conditions. If your panel is one of these or if it’s more than 25-30 years old, it’s time for a serious look.
Urgent Signs it’s Time to Upgrade
Your lights flicker or breakers trip often
Your panel is warm to the touch
You smell burning near the panel
You’re using multiple power strips or extension cords
Helpful Resource: Check out this article from This Old House explaining the risks of outdated electrical systems.
2. Protect Your Equipment and Appliances
Surges and inconsistent power can damage modern electronics, HVAC systems, and appliances. A properly maintained and up-to-date panel ensures steady electrical flow, reducing the risk of expensive damage.
If your lights flicker when appliances run or you’re constantly resetting breakers, your panel could be struggling to keep up.
3. Today’s Technology Demands More Power
From smart home systems to home offices, in-home theaters, and gaming setups—our electrical needs have changed. Many of my customers are surprised to learn that their current panel isn’t designed to handle this kind of load.
Are you adding or already using:
A new hot tub, sauna, or kitchen remodel?
A home office setup with multiple computers and equipment?
If so, your panel needs to be equipped to handle that power safely and efficiently.
4. It Can Save You Money Over Time
While it may feel like a big investment up front, upgrading your panel can help avoid costly emergency repairs or fire damage—and it adds resale value, especially as buyers become more energy-conscious and EV-ready.
Plus, newer panels are often more energy-efficient, and you may qualify for rebates or incentives if you’re upgrading to a higher amperage or integrating renewable energy systems or EV chargers.
Helpful Resource: Visit Xcel Energy for info on an electrical panel upgrade rebate.
5. Peace of Mind
Electrical issues can be stressful. I’ve seen customers lose sleep over flickering lights or buzzing outlets. A modern, code-compliant panel gives you peace of mind that your home is safe, sound, and future-ready.
Let’s Take a Look Together
If you're unsure whether your panel needs maintenance or a full upgrade, I'm happy to stop by and take a look. At Collective Electric, I take the time to explain what’s happening in your panel, what your options are, and how we can build a solution that fits your home, goals, and budget.
Contact me today for a free estimate!