Restoring Capacity and Safety to Your Electrical System
Panel Upgrades in Santa Clarita for homes with frequent breaker trips, outdated fuse boxes, or insufficient capacity for new equipment
Lariat Electric performs panel upgrades throughout Santa Clarita, Burbank, Simi Valley, and surrounding areas for homeowners whose electrical systems can no longer support modern appliances, electric vehicle chargers, or additional circuits. This service replaces undersized, outdated, or damaged panels with modern load centers that provide adequate capacity and comply with current electrical codes. You may have a 60-amp fuse panel installed decades ago, or a 100-amp breaker panel that trips whenever you run the dryer and air conditioner at the same time.
The upgrade involves removing the old panel, installing a new one with higher amperage capacity, updating the grounding system, and reconnecting circuits with proper wire sizing and labeling. Many upgrades also require coordination with the utility company to replace the meter base and upgrade the service drop. This work is often paired with whole-home rewiring, the addition of dedicated circuits for large appliances, or the installation of backup power systems.
If you're planning to add an EV charger, heat pump, or other high-demand equipment, contact Lariat Electric to assess whether your panel can handle the load or if an upgrade is the necessary first step.
What Happens During a Panel Upgrade
You'll start with a load calculation to determine the total demand your home places on the electrical system. The electrician reviews the size and number of circuits, measures existing wire gauges, and confirms whether the main service conductors from the meter need replacement. Most upgrades replace 60 or 100-amp panels with 200-amp panels, which provides enough capacity for future needs without requiring another upgrade.
After the new panel is installed, your breakers will stop tripping under normal use, you'll have open spaces for additional circuits, and the entire system will be labeled clearly for easier troubleshooting. Lariat Electric installs panels with AFCI and GFCI breakers where required by code, ensures all connections are torqued to manufacturer specifications, and arranges for inspection and final approval. You'll notice more stable power delivery, no more dimming lights when motors start, and the ability to run multiple high-draw appliances simultaneously.
The work requires a permit, temporary power shutoff, and a final inspection by the local building department. Upgrades do not include rewiring circuits beyond the panel, repairing damage to walls or finishes, or installing new equipment such as chargers or appliances.
Common Panel Upgrade Questions
Homeowners in Santa Clarita and neighboring communities often want to know when an upgrade is necessary, how long it takes, and what's involved in the process.
How do you know if your panel is too small?
If your main breaker is rated below 100 amps, you're adding equipment that requires a dedicated 40 or 50-amp circuit, or your panel is full with no space for additional breakers, an upgrade is likely necessary to support current and future loads.
What tools are used to install a new panel?
Electricians use knockout punches to create openings for conduit, torque screwdrivers to tighten lugs to exact specifications, wire strippers rated for larger gauge wire, and insulated tools to safely handle energized components during meter reconnection.
How long does a panel upgrade take?
Most residential panel upgrades in Santa Clarita take six to ten hours, including removal of the old panel, installation of the new one, reconnection of circuits, and coordination with the utility company for meter reinstallation and service restoration.
Why do some upgrades require a meter base replacement?
If the existing meter base is rated for lower amperage or uses an outdated design, the utility company requires replacement before approving a service increase, which ensures the metering equipment can handle the higher load safely.
When is a permit required for panel work?
Any panel replacement or upgrade in Santa Clarita requires a permit, inspection, and final approval from the building department to confirm the installation meets National Electrical Code standards and local amendments.
Lariat Electric completes panel upgrades for homeowners across Santa Clarita who need more capacity, improved safety, or code-compliant systems. If your panel is outdated or you're planning equipment that exceeds your current service, schedule a consultation to review your system and discuss the scope of work required for a safe, compliant upgrade.