Electrical Panel Upgrades and Replacement
We provide panel upgrades and electrical panel replacements throughout Aurora. With 25+ years of local experience, our in-house electricians upgrade outdated fuse boxes and low-capacity breaker panels, and install new 200-amp systems built for today’s higher electrical demand.
If you’re adding a home office, installing an EV charger, or dealing with frequent breaker trips that may require circuit breaker repair, we tailor the main service panel upgrade to your home’s needs and current safety codes.
You’ll get upfront pricing, no subcontractors, and fast help for emergency panel replacement after surges or electrical faults. A properly upgraded panel improves safety and gives you reliable power for years.
When You Need a Panel Upgrade
Many local homes still have older electrical systems that weren’t designed for today’s loads. Knowing when it’s time to upgrade comes down to safety, reliability, and what you plan to add to the home, and if the issue is isolated, electrical panel repair may be enough. An upgraded panel lowers risk, supports new appliances, and helps protect the value of your property.
Signs Your Electrical Panel Is Outdated
Frequent breaker trips, flickering lights that may call for lighting installation, and outlets that stop working can mean the panel is overloaded or failing. If the home still uses fuses or an original panel from decades ago, it may not handle modern demand safely, which increases the risk of overheating and damage. We can assess the panel, explain the safety concerns, and recommend the right upgrade path.
Increasing Power Demands at Home
Projects like kitchen renovations, new A/C, finished basements, and EV chargers increase electrical demand quickly. If breakers feel hot, trip often, or you’re running out of space for new circuits, the panel may not have enough capacity, which can lead to nuisance shutdowns and unsafe strain on the system. We regularly upgrade homes from 100 amps to 200 amps so the electrical system stays stable as needs change.
Safety Codes and Home Insurance
Panels must meet current safety codes across Aurora and Illinois. If a panel is outdated, some insurance carriers may require proof of code compliance or limit coverage after a claim. We handle code-compliant upgrades, required permits, and inspection coordination so you’re not left guessing during renovations, inspections, or insurance reviews.
If you’re seeing warning signs or planning improvements, reach out to discuss next steps. You’ll get clear advice and upfront pricing.
What a Panel Upgrade Includes
A panel upgrade is a detailed process designed to improve safety and support modern electrical loads. Here’s what the process typically includes.
Electrical Assessment and Planning
Before work begins, we evaluate the panel’s age, capacity, and condition, including patterns like repeated breaker trips or fuse-based setups. We calculate the home’s electrical load and factor in future needs like new appliances or EV charging.
This determines the right panel size, often 200 amps for many homes, while staying aligned with local codes and safety standards.
Permits, Utility Coordination, and Preparation
Panel upgrades require permits and utility coordination. We submit plans, pull permits, schedule the disconnect with ComEd, and flag any issues that may require electric meter repair. Before removing the old panel, we label circuits carefully to ensure accurate reconnection.
Power is shut down safely, and we plan ahead if essential circuits need temporary support.
Removing the Old Panel and Installing the New System
We disconnect and remove the existing panel and document the circuit setup for clean rework. If needed, we update wiring, replace outdated feeders, or adjust mounting to meet code. The new panel is installed with new breakers, required weatherproofing, and clear circuit labels.
Grounding, bonding, and safety requirements are verified, including surge protection and repair where appropriate under current Illinois standards.
Testing, Inspection, and Walkthrough
After installation, we restore power and test each circuit for proper operation. A local inspection follows to confirm compliance. We remove debris and review the completed setup with you, including any documentation you may need. You’ll know what was done, what changed, and what to expect moving forward.
If you’re planning a panel upgrade, we can help you choose the right solution and complete the work safely.
Our Panel Upgrade Process in Aurora
At Jimco Electric, we keep panel upgrades clear and straightforward. Here’s how our local team handles every step for Aurora homeowners who want reliability and peace of mind.
We Assess Your Home’s Needs
We start with a detailed load assessment, looking at how much power your home uses today and what you might need down the track. This helps us recommend the right panel capacity and check if a full upgrade is the right fit or if something smaller, like a subpanel, works.
We Install With Care and Expertise
Our electricians handle everything, from permit applications with Aurora’s building department to safe removal and replacement of your old panel. We don’t use subcontractors, so you’ll always have our experienced crew on site, keeping downtime to a minimum and your home up to code.
Full System Testing and Inspection
After installation, we carefully test every circuit and check connections to confirm everything is functioning correctly. We use diagnostic tools to verify your new panel handles the required load safely.
Clear Walkthrough and Handover
Before we leave, we walk you through the completed upgrade and explain any new features or changes. We answer questions and ensure you understand how to operate and maintain your new panel.
