Panel upgrades and replacements

Main service panels up to 400 amps, sub-panels for garages, ADUs and shops, and Zinsco replacements. Permitted, inspected and coordinated with PG&E.

or call (707) 430-0222

What it is

The panel is where the utility's power enters your home and is split into circuits.

It is essential that the electrical panel in your home processes power safely and correctly. Electric vehicles, modern HVAC systems, home offices and smart devices all add load, and many older panels were never built to carry it.

We install new meter panels to handle higher loads, often 125 or 200 amps or more, and add sub-panels for garages, ADUs, solar and workshops. All work is city-permitted, built to the National Electrical Code and includes surge protection.

Signs you need one

Any of these is a reason to have the panel looked at.

  • Breakers trip often, or lights flicker.
  • The panel is an outdated brand, such as Zinsco, or is rated under 100 amps.
  • The panel feels warm to the touch, or you have had a shock near it.
  • Rust on or around the main panel, which can mean water damage.
  • You are planning a remodel, an ADU, a hot tub, an EV charger or solar.

What to expect

A real sequence, from first look to final inspection.

  1. Inspection and load calculation. We look at your current system and work out the safest code-compliant upgrade.

  2. A written price. You approve the estimate before anything starts.

  3. PG&E and permits. We pull permits and coordinate with PG&E. Some upgrades now need PG&E engineering drawings first because of gas meter clearance.

  4. The install. Old panel out, new panel in, grounding brought up to code.

  5. City inspection. We work with the inspector until it is signed off.

Price guide

Ballpark ranges from our flat-rate book.

Panel work
Panel workBallpark
Subpanel, 30 to 60 amp$975 to $1,300
Subpanel, 100 to 125 amp$1,850 to $2,500
Subpanel, 200 amp$2,100 to $2,900
Home main, 125 amplike for like, no relocation$7,000 to $8,500
Home main, 200 amplike for like, no relocation$7,900 to $8,900
Home main, 400 amplike for like, no relocation$8,000 to $12,000

Where PG&E requires engineering drawings, PG&E charges $2,500 and credits back the unused portion. We estimate the panel upgrade after that.

From a recent job

A solar-ready panel upgrade in Vacaville, in order.

  1. Stucco wall crowded with the old meter, an EV charger, an outlet and junction boxes
    1Before
  2. The same wall with the EV charger and outlet moved away from the meter
    2Charger and outlet moved
  3. The wall opened up where the old panel came out
    3Old panel out
  4. An electrician wiring the new panel set into the wall
    4Wiring the new panel
  5. The new 125-amp panel installed with its door open and breakers in place
    5New 125-amp panel
  6. The finished panel closed up in the stucco wall
    6Finished

What customers say

★★★★★

Lost power to the outlet for my washer. Steve was prompt and thorough in identifying the aging breaker as the problem.

Pat M., Google review, June 2026

Read every review

Questions

Do you upgrade or replace Zinsco panels?

Yes. We replace Zinsco panels safely, so your home's electrical system is secure and efficient.

How often should a panel be upgraded?

Electrical panels should be upgraded every ten years so they keep processing power safely.

Do you apply for permits?

Yes, we apply for permits when they are needed.

Why would PG&E need to be involved?

A PG&E rule change about clearance from the gas meter means some 100, 125 and 200-amp main upgrades need engineering drawings from PG&E before we can estimate the work.

Is my job too small?

No. There is a minimum fee to come out to your home or business.

Call us