What Is an Electrical Panel, and Why Might You Need an Upgrade?

Your electrical panel—also called a breaker box or service panel—is the central hub of your property’s electrical system. It distributes electricity from the utility company into the circuits that power your lights, outlets, and appliances.
Over time, older panels can become outdated or overloaded, especially with the increased power demands of today’s homes and commercial equipment. You might need an upgrade if:
 

• You’re adding new appliances or circuits (e.g., EV chargers, HVAC systems, hot tubs)

• Your panel is more than 25–30 years old

• You have a 60 or 100 amp panel and need more power

• The panel is warm to the touch or emits a burning smell

• Your breakers trip frequently or fuses keep blowing

• Your insurance company requires a panel upgrade
   

Upgrading your panel increases capacity, improves safety, and allows your home or business to operate more efficiently and reliably.

Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel
   Don’t ignore the signs that your current system isn’t keeping up. These red flags could mean it’s time to schedule a professional upgrade:
 

•  Flickering or dimming lights

•  Buzzing sounds from your breaker box

•  Tripping breakers or blown fuses

•  Lack of available breaker slots

•  Frequent need for extension cords or power strips

•  Installing high-power appliances or remodels
   

If any of these sound familiar, it’s a good idea to have your panel inspected by the professionals at Power Poles Orange County.

   Our Electrical Panel Upgrade Process
     At Power Poles Orange County, we’ve built our reputation on providing reliable, affordable, and code-compliant panel upgrades throughout Orange       County. Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:

    Detailed Site Inspection
     We start with a full evaluation of your existing system, assessing your power usage and future needs. Our licensed electricians will recommend the           right panel size—typically 200 amps or more—for your property.

    Permit & Utility Coordination
     We take care of all permitting with your city in Orange COunty and coordinate with SCE to ensure your upgrade meets all utility requirements.
 
   Expert Installation
     We remove your outdated panel, install a new modern unit, and ensure every circuit is clearly labeled, grounded, and protected. Our team follows             strict safety protocols at every step.

    Power Restoration & Testing
     Once the installation is complete, we thoroughly test the new system to ensure it’s running smoothly and safely. Then we restore power to your                 home or business with minimal disruption.

   Why Choose Power Poles Orange County?
     We know you don’t trust just anyone to work on your property’s electrical system—and neither should you. Here’s why customers across Orange
     County choose us for their panel upgrades:

    Licensed & Insured Electricians
     Every upgrade is completed by certified professionals who are licensed, bonded, and insured in the state of California.

    Experience You Can Count On
      We’ve completed hundreds of successful upgrades for residential and commercial clients across Orange County. We know the codes, the local                  utility procedures, and how to get the job done right.

    Upfront Pricing & Transparent Quotes
     No surprises here. We offer clear, upfront pricing and explain every step of the process before we begin.

    One-Stop Electrical Services
     Need more than just a panel? We also install permanent and temporary power poles, provide excavation and trenching, and can assist with other             electrical upgrades as needed.

    Fast Turnaround Times
      We understand that you can’t be without power for long. Our team works efficiently to minimize downtime while ensuring the highest safety and              quality standards.

Common Questions About Panel Upgrades

How long does an upgrade take?
Most residential upgrades take one day, but larger commercial jobs may require more time depending on complexity and inspection requirements.

What size panel do I need?
The average modern home uses a 200 amp panel, but we’ll assess your needs and recommend the right size based on your appliances, square footage, and future plans.

Is it dangerous to delay a panel upgrade?
Yes. Old or overloaded panels can overheat and potentially cause electrical fires. They can also prevent your home from passing inspections or limit future upgrades.

Can I get a permit myself?
You can, but we handle the process for you to ensure everything is by the book and streamlined with the utility company.

Let’s Upgrade Your Power—Safely and Affordably

Don’t wait until an outdated electrical panel causes damage to your property or prevents you from completing that next project. Let Power Poles Orange County bring your system up to modern standards with a professional upgrade.

 Call us today at (949) 208-9779 to schedule your free consultation and quote

 Proudly serving Orange County, Huntington Beach, Costa Mesa, San Clemente, and surrounding communities

Power up your property the right way—with safe, efficient, and expert electrical panel upgrades from Power Poles Orange County.