How Long Does It Take to Upgrade an Electrical Panel?

Replacing your electrical panel is one of the most critical things you can do to keep your home's electrical system safe, efficient, and working properly. Whether you are going for a major remodel, putting in high-powered appliances, or just worrying about outdated Electrical panel installation wire, understanding the duration of the process aids in the effective planning.

In this article, we will guide you through the electrical panel upgrade timeline, what the process is, and the most important factors that can influence how long the process takes.

What Is an Electrical Panel Upgrade?

An electrical panel upgrade involves replacing an existing panel—typically rated for 100 amps—with a new panel capable of handling more current, such as 200 amps or more. This upgrade allows your home to support additional circuits and higher electricity demand, especially important if you’re adding central air conditioning, electric vehicles, or large appliances.

It's also an important safety measure. Older panels, especially those from 20-30 years back, might not adhere to contemporary electrical codes and may even be a fire hazard. In certain situations, an old panel is no longer merely inefficient—it's unsafe.

Frequently Upgrade? Typical Reasons

Let's discuss some of the most typical reasons individuals seek electrical panel installation or upgrades before we get into the timeline:

• Flickering or dimming lights

• Frequent breaker trips

• Burning odor close to the panel

• New appliances that draw more electricity

• Home additions or renovations

• Installation of an electric vehicle charger

• Insurance needs or home sale inspections

In every one of these scenarios, an upgrade isn't merely a convenience – it's usually a necessary jolt fix to avoid potential dangers and keep your home able to handle today's electrical needs.

How Long Does an Electrical Panel Upgrade Take?

The typical electrical panel installation or replacement takes anywhere from 4 to 8 hours for a licensed electrician to do. However, the complete process can last 1 to 3 days if you factor in inspections, utility coordination, and other logistical considerations.

Here's the step-by-step breakdown:

1. Initial Inspection and Planning (1–3 Days)

Prior to any work commencing, an electrician will be required to examine your present panel and determine the electrical requirements of your dwelling. This is commonly involved in:

• Assessing your current system

• Calculating the correct amperage

• Verifying code compliance

• Acquiring permits

Where permits are necessary (as they normally are), obtaining approval takes an additional day or so, subject to your local authority.

2. Scheduling with the Utility Company (1–5 Days)

In most instances, particularly if the panel is directly connected to the power grid, your local utility company will have to shut off electricity during the upgrade and then restore service once done. Scheduling this appointment can take anywhere from several days to a week, depending on schedule and local demand.

3. Panel Upgrade Installation (4–8 Hours)

Your electrician will do the following on the day of electrical panel installation:

• Cut off power to your house

• Dispose of the old panel

• Mount the new panel

• Connect all circuits

• Test and mark breakers

The work may take longer if:

• Your wiring is outdated and must be replaced

• The panel is located in a difficult-to-reach spot

• Other components (e.g., grounding systems, surge protectors) are needed

4. Inspection and Power Restoration (1–2 Days)

After installing the new panel, it will usually need to be inspected by your local code enforcement office or utility company before power may be restored. Same-day inspections are available in most locations—but in some jurisdictions, you might have to wait a day or two.

Total Timeline: 1 to 3 Days (with Variables)

Here is a breakdown of the typical timeline:

• Task Time Estimate

• Planning and permits\t1–3 days

• Utility company coordination\t1–5 days (may overlap)

• Panel installation\t4–8 hours

• Inspection & reconnection

• 1–2 days

Overall time: 1 to 3 days, though scheduling delays or high electrical requirements can take longer.

What Can Influence the Timeline?

A number of things can influence the length of your electrical panel upgrade:

Age of your home – Older homes might have older wiring that has to be replaced.

Permit delays – Some cities take longer to process permits.

Utility availability – Shutoff/reconnection scheduling can be unpredictable.

Weather – Severe weather can slow down work or inspections outside.

Project scope – Installing circuits, sub-panels, or rewiring takes extra time.

To keep things from coming as a shock, it's always wise to request a comprehensive estimate from a licensed electrician who can determine your home's unique requirements.

Can It Be Done Sooner?

Certain upgrades can be completed in one day, particularly if:

• You have permits already in place

• The utility company arrives as scheduled

• The wiring is contemporary and code-compliant

The panel is simple to access

But attempting to hurry an electrical panel installation can jeopardize safety and lead to inspection failure. A professional electrician will work to get it done right—not hastily.

Electrical panel replacement is not a do-it-yourself venture. There is high-voltage equipment, strict code compliance, and sometimes coordination with power companies and inspectors involved. Having a licensed electrician come on the job guarantees:

Professional-quality components and craftsmanship

A good contractor will also provide a shock solution—not only for safety, but also for getting you through the hassle of permits, inspections, and power company logistics.

Conclusion

Replacing your electrical panel is a worthwhile investment in your home's safety, function, and future preparedness. Although the actual electrical panel installation process can be completed in under a day, the entire process typically takes 1 to 3 days, depending on your house, permits, and utility coordination.