Panel Upgrades in the Treasure Valley
Many homes across Idaho's Treasure Valley still run on electrical panels sized for a different era, before central air, electric vehicles and modern kitchens pulled this much power. American Electrical Services upgrades outdated or undersized panels so your home's electrical system can safely handle the load you are actually putting on it today.
A panel that is too small for your home's demand does not just trip breakers, it can quietly wear out and become a fire risk. We evaluate your actual usage before recommending a size, rather than defaulting to the largest panel available.
What We Do
Panel upgrade work we perform includes:
- Replacing outdated or undersized electrical panels
- Increasing amperage capacity for growing electrical loads
- Upgrading fuse boxes to modern circuit breaker panels
- Bringing panels up to current electrical code
- Adding circuit capacity for future additions like EV chargers or generators
We size the new panel to your home's current and reasonably foreseeable electrical needs, not just today's load.
Signs You Need Panel Upgrades
A panel upgrade is worth considering if any of the following apply to your home:
- Breakers trip when running multiple appliances at once
- The panel still uses fuses instead of circuit breakers
- The panel is decades old or shows visible rust, scorching or damage
- You are planning an addition, EV charger or generator that needs more capacity
- A home inspection flagged the panel as outdated or unsafe
If a home inspection or insurance review has already flagged your panel, that is a strong signal to have it evaluated soon.
What to Expect on the Visit
A licensed electrician inspects your current panel, evaluates your home's electrical load, and explains whether a full replacement or a capacity increase makes more sense for your situation. Panel upgrades typically require a permit and a brief power shutoff during the work, both of which we handle and explain in advance, including roughly how long your home will be without power that day.
Why the ARD Family
As part of the American Rooter & Drain family, American Electrical Services approaches panel upgrades the way ARD approaches any major home system replacement: correctly sized, permitted, and explained clearly before work begins, not sold as an upsell. Our electricians would rather walk you through why a panel does or does not need replacing than talk you into work your home does not actually need.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a panel upgrade cost?
Panel upgrade cost depends on your current panel, the amperage you need, and how much rewiring is involved. A licensed electrician can give you an accurate answer after inspecting your panel. Request service online or call the number at the top of this page to schedule that visit.
How do I know if my panel needs an upgrade?
Frequent breaker trips, a panel that still uses fuses, visible rust or scorching, or plans for an EV charger or generator are all reasons to have a licensed electrician evaluate your panel.
How long does a panel upgrade take?
Many panel upgrades are completed in a single day, though the exact timeline depends on the scope of work and permitting. Your electrician will walk you through the expected timeline before starting.
Will I lose power during a panel upgrade?
Yes, a panel upgrade requires a temporary power shutoff to work safely. Your electrician will tell you how long to expect and plan the work to keep that window as short as possible.
Can I upgrade my own electrical panel?
No. Panel work involves the main electrical service to your home and is licensed-professional work under Idaho code. It should always be performed and permitted by a licensed electrician.
