Electrical panels

Breakers tripping, or adding something big? Start here.

• Electrical panels: cost guidePrices by type and by state, with the math shown.See prices →
• Electrical panels: calculatorAnswer a few easy questions. Get your range.Try it →
• Fix it or replace it?Warning signs, life spans and the break-even math.Decide →

The short version

A new panel averages $1,347^[1] in the U.S. Most jobs cost $518 to $2,193^[1][1]. Old fuse boxes and moving the panel cost more.

A service panel can last about 60 years^[2][2]. But heat, burn marks or buzzing mean you should call an electrician soon.

Which page do you need?

• What does it cost? The cost guide covers each panel size, fuse boxes, and electrician pay in every state.
• What will mine cost? The calculator prices the job you pick.
• Do I need a new one? The fix or replace guide shows the warning signs.

Every number on these pages links to its source. We show our math, so you can check it.

What a panel does

Your panel is the metal box where power comes into your home. It splits that power into circuits. Each circuit has a breaker or a fuse.

When too much power flows, the breaker trips. That stops the wire from getting too hot. So a panel is a safety tool, not just a switch box.

The number of amps tells how much power the whole panel can handle at once. An older home may have a smaller panel than a new one.

Why people upgrade

• They add big things. A car charger, a hot tub or a new AC can need more power.
• The panel is old. HomeAdvisor lists a panel over 25 years^[1] old as a sign to look at it.
• It has fuses. Going from fuses to breakers costs $1,500 to $2,000^[1].
• It is a Federal Pacific or Zinsco panel. HomeAdvisor lists swaps for these at $1,500 to $4,000^[1].

Why this matters

U.S. fire departments saw about 24,200^[3] home electrical fires in 2021^[3]. Not all of them come from panels. But a panel that works well is part of a safe home.

Panel work is for a licensed electrician. In Florida, you can check an electrical contractor's license on the state DBPR site^[4].

Before you call an electrician

• Write down what you want to add, like a car charger or a hot tub.
• List which breakers trip, and what was running at the time.
• Note the brand and the amps from the panel label.

This list helps the electrician give you a clear quote on the first visit.