Panel Upgrade vs. Panel Replacement: Which Is Right for Your Home in Los Angeles?
If you’ve noticed flickering lights, frequently tripped breakers, or you still have an older electrical panel such as a Federal Pacific, Zinsco, or Sylvania, you may be wondering whether your home needs a panel upgrade or a full panel replacement. This is one of the most common questions we hear from homeowners throughout Los Angeles. The answer depends on your home’s electrical demand, the condition of your existing equipment, and current code and safety requirements.
What Is an Electrical Panel Upgrade?
A panel upgrade involves increasing your home’s electrical capacity — the amount of power it can safely handle. Many Los Angeles homes built before the 1980s were originally designed for 60-amp or 100-amp service. Today’s homes typically require 200 amps or more to support modern electrical loads such as central air conditioning, EV chargers, kitchen appliances, and home offices.
Upgrading your electrical panel allows you to:
- Safely operate additional appliances and devices without tripping breakers
- Add new electrical systems, such as EV chargers or solar panels
- Improve safety and reduce the risk of overheating or electrical fires
- Bring your home up to current Los Angeles electrical code standards
For example, if you’re installing an EV charger but your existing panel is only rated for 100 amps, we’ll likely recommend upgrading to a 200-amp service.
What Is an Electrical Panel Replacement?
A panel replacement involves removing and replacing your current electrical panel with a new one of the same or higher capacity. This is typically necessary when your existing panel is unsafe, outdated, or malfunctioning — even if your home’s electrical demand hasn’t increased.
You may need a panel replacement if your existing unit is:
- A known hazardous brand such as Federal Pacific, Zinsco, Challenger, Pushmatic, or Sylvania
- Corroded, burned, or shows signs of heat damage
- Causing flickering lights, buzzing sounds, or failed inspection results
- No longer supported by replacement breakers or parts
If your home already has a 200-amp service but the panel itself is a Federal Pacific model, replacing it with a modern Siemens, Square D, or Eaton panel will keep your capacity the same while eliminating fire and insurance risks.
How to Determine Which Option You Need
| Situation | Recommended Action | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Outdated or unsafe panel brand (FPE, Zinsco, etc.) | Replace the panel | Safety and insurance compliance |
| Panel is safe but cannot handle modern electrical load | Upgrade the panel | Increase capacity |
| Breakers trip occasionally, wiring appears in good condition | Schedule an inspection | May only require minor repair |
| Lights dim when large appliances turn on | Upgrade the panel | Indicates limited amperage |
| Burning smell or scorch marks near panel | Replace immediately | Fire hazard |
Why It Matters for Los Angeles Homeowners
Los Angeles building and electrical codes have become stricter in recent years, especially as more homes add solar power systems, battery storage, and EV chargers. Upgrading or replacing your electrical panel ensures your system complies with LADBS (Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety) and local utility company requirements.
Many insurance carriers now refuse to insure homes with Federal Pacific or Zinsco panels due to known fire risks. An outdated panel can affect your home’s safety, resale value, and insurability.
Planning Future Upgrades
If you plan to install an EV charger, remodel your kitchen, add central air conditioning, or build an ADU, it’s wise to upgrade your panel in advance. Doing so prevents repeated electrical work later and ensures your system can handle additional load safely and efficiently.
Why Homeowners Trust Branover Contractors Inc
Since 1985, Branover Contractors Inc Electrical Service has provided Los Angeles homeowners with reliable, code-compliant electrical work. Our licensed electricians specialize in:
- Federal Pacific and Zinsco panel replacements
- 200-amp and 400-amp service upgrades
- EV charger installations
- Code compliance and permit handling
- Electrical safety inspections
We handle every step of the process, from permits and materials to inspection and final approval. Our goal is to make sure your home’s electrical system is safe, efficient, and ready for future needs.
Schedule Your Electrical Panel Inspection
If you’re unsure whether your home needs a panel upgrade or replacement, schedule a free inspection with Branover Contractors Inc. We’ll evaluate your current setup, identify safety issues, and recommend the most practical and cost-effective solution.
Call (323) 467-6661 or visit www.branovercontractors.com to request your inspection or estimate today.
