Electrical Panel Upgrades in Los Angeles

*Updated November 2025
Your electrical panel is the heart of your system. When it is outdated or overloaded it increases the risk of overheating, nuisance tripping, and potential fire. RG Electric replaces unsafe or undersized panels with modern, code compliant equipment across the Los Angeles area, and we handle permits and inspections for you.

Typical projects include new main panels and sub panels, service size upgrades from 100A to 200A and beyond, panel relocation for clearance, corrective repairs, and replacement of legacy brands such as Zinsco, Federal Pacific, Pushmatic, and Challenger. For multi unit properties, we plan phased work to limit downtime and provide clear documentation for managers and insurers.

Licensed C-10, insured, serving the greater Los Angeles metro. Free on site estimates for homeowners and property managers.

Do You Need a Panel Upgrade?

Los Angeles housing stock mixes older wiring with modern loads. Added HVAC, EV charging, induction ranges, and home offices push many panels beyond safe capacity. If you notice frequent breaker trips, lights dimming when large loads start, hot breakers, or scorch marks, your panel may be undersized or deteriorating. Lack of spaces, tandem breakers crammed into one slot, or brittle insulation near the panel are also warning signs. Legacy panels from Zinsco, Federal Pacific, Pushmatic, and Challenger are known for mechanical wear and overheating; many insurers flag them for replacement.

Apartment and Commercial Upgrades

Property managers need predictable scheduling and clean closeout. We map existing circuits, label directories, coordinate shutoffs, and phase work building by building or stack by stack. House panels, meter mains, and common area sub panels are upgraded with clear labeling and torque records. We provide photo documentation for insurance and compliance, and we schedule inspections to minimize downtime for tenants and operations. See our commercial electrical services for larger scopes.

Permits and Inspections in Los Angeles

Panel replacements generally require a permit and a final inspection. Our team pulls the permit, coordinates any utility shutoff as needed, and sets inspection. During the upgrade we verify grounding and bonding, install new service equipment with proper working clearances, and label circuits for easy maintenance. You receive a clear packet for your records, which is essential for HOAs, lenders, and insurance underwriting.

What to Expect on Upgrade Day

Before work begins we protect adjacent areas and photograph existing labeling. Power is shut off for the swap window, which is scheduled with you in advance. The legacy panel is removed, a new enclosure and breakers are installed, bonding and grounding are corrected, and circuits are landed with proper torque. We perform safety tests, verify GFCI and AFCI protection where required, restore power, and review the panel directory with you. If an inspection is same day, we meet the inspector on site; otherwise we return for the final.

Costs and Timeline

Pricing depends on service size, grounding upgrades, panel relocation to meet clearance, repairs to damaged conductors, and permit requirements. Most residential main panel upgrades are completed in about a day once work begins, with inspections typically scheduled soon after. For an accurate quote, request a free on site estimate and include a clear photo of your existing panel, meter, and main disconnect if possible.

Grounding, Bonding, and Surge Protection

Many unsafe panels are paired with outdated grounding and bonding. We correct water pipe and ground rod connections, bond the panel enclosure properly, and ensure the neutral is isolated in sub panels. This work improves fault clearing and reduces shock risk. It is also the best time to add a Type 2 surge protective device to protect HVAC boards and appliances. Learn more about our whole house surge protector installation.

Sub Panels and Future Expansion

Garage conversions, ADUs, and new equipment often benefit from a dedicated sub panel. During a main panel upgrade we can install a sub panel with capacity for future loads, run conduit for a second EV charger, or provide dedicated circuits for HVAC and cooking appliances. Proper labeling and spare capacity make future projects faster and less disruptive.

Known Legacy Panels, Risks to Address

Zinsco and Federal Pacific (FPE) panels are linked to breaker and bus bar issues that can allow overheating. Pushmatic and Challenger equipment also show age related failures. If your building still uses one of these, replacement reduces risk and can help with insurance. We perform like for like circuit mapping, use listed replacement gear, and document the change for your files. For deeper breaker troubleshooting and selective replacements, see our circuit breaker services.

Related Electrical Services

Panel upgrades are a perfect time to resolve other reliability issues. Explore our wiring repairs and rewiring, EV charger installations, emergency electrical repairs, and commercial electrical upgrades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for a panel replacement in Los Angeles?
Yes. We pull the permit, coordinate any utility shutoff, and schedule the final inspection.

What panel size do I need, 100A or 200A?
We calculate load based on appliances, HVAC, and EV charging. Many homes benefit from 200A for future capacity.

How long will the power be off?
Most swaps are completed the same day. We plan the shutoff window with you and restore power as soon as safe.

Can you add a sub panel during the upgrade?
Yes. Garages, ADUs, and dedicated equipment often get a sub panel for cleaner distribution and room to expand.

Will you label the new panel?
Yes. We provide a clear directory and photos for your records and for any future inspections or insurance needs.

Electrical work is hazardous. Consult a licensed electrician like RG Electric for inspections, permits, and code compliant installations.