I need it done, but don't have the outrageous money an electrical contractor would want. Don't want to ZZZZZAP myself either.
2006-07-19 12:12:24 · 6 answers · asked by plmccoy47 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
Upgrading a main electrical panel is a job for a trained professional with the proper permits. One mistake could cost you or your family their lives.
2006-07-19 12:18:45 · answer #1 · answered by luckyaz128 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
First, you must check with your local building codes... they may not allow anyone not licensed to do this.
Another consideration is the transformer feeding power to your home (and possibly, your neighbors).... The transformer may need to be replaced with one that has a larger capacity. Also.... the meter base may need to be replaced. For these two items contact your electrical company directly. They will charge you for the new meter, even if they do not charge for the transformer. Also... along with the new meter base... you may have to install a new 'mast' (The pole that goes from the meter up thru roof, that holds the wires running from the poles... assuming you do not have underground supply lines)
My preferred method of replacing an electrical panel, is to install the new one beside the old one, if possible, or someplace more convenient. This is going to be dictated somewhat by where your meter base is located... you want as short a run as possible from the meter to your panel (mine is right on the other side of the wall) Get the new panel installed, and get all the breakers you will need for it. It is a good idea to use a panel larger than you actually need right now... giving you room to grow, later.
BEFORE you touch any of your existing wiring, turn the main power switch OFF. Also, contact your electrical company and have them disconnect the power to your meter base. (If your home is old enough to need to upgrade the panel, I'm betting the electric company will make you upgrade the meter base too).
After you have all of your wiring moved to the new panel, and the new meter base wired to the new panel, ask the electric company to reconnect the power to your new meter base.
Yes, this is all expensive... especially right now.... building supply products have skyrocketed since hurricane Katrina, and they arent expected to drop anytime soon. Expense is better than dead tho... so be safe... If you are not COMPLETELY comfortable, and knowledgeable about how to do this... HIRE A LICENSED ELECTRICIAN.
Now... rather than replacing a panel... you may be able to upgrade some of your wiring, and circuit breakers (assuming your panel isnt old enough to use fuses..... if it is... replace it). If your panel is not full, then you can add some circuits, or even split some that are overloaded. Do NOT simply go thru and install a lot of new breakers with higher amps.
Even if you do not decide to hire an electrician... you should ask some to come out and give you some estimates, and an idea of what all is going to be involved. You might save yourself some anguish in the long run.
Good Luck
2006-07-19 13:46:18 · answer #2 · answered by thewrangler_sw 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Go to your nearest Home Depot ask the Electrical Contractor Desk. Ask about upgrading your service panel to the minimum amp the NEC and local codes will allow for your state. Call your local power company and ask what are the minimum requiment to upgrade your electrical service panel. You will need an electrician with a license in your state to stand by you while you upgrade. finally I suggest an non licensed apprentice this persons works with a license contractor and doesn't charge as much ask friends for a referal electrical work can seriously harm you do your homework first . Building inspector from building and safety will need to inspect your work you may need permits check into it. Mona S.
2006-07-21 05:53:34 · answer #3 · answered by Mona S 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sure I do. In my 20+ years as an electrician, I have installed and upgraded many panels. However, as a homeowner, you probably can't do the install/upgrade yourself. Here in Montana as well as in several other states, this is one of the few electrical wiring projects homeowners can't do themselves. You need to check with your local building codes department to see if you can do this work.
If you are able to do this work and you need advice, we are available to provide DIY electrical wiring help, answers to your electrical questions, electrical wiring tips and expert electrical advice.
If you need further assistance, please visit -
http://electricalblog.gilchrist-electric.com
2006-07-19 12:32:59 · answer #4 · answered by gilchristelectric 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My hubby is an Electrician, so I know a bit.
just depends if you habve room on your panel to add amps...
or you may have to get a new larger panel installed
2006-07-19 12:17:01 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
it's not just the panel (you get the breakers in your local home-improvement store) but if you have higher currents in your home and a very old system with thin cables, you're likely to burn down, not zzzzzap yourself
but it's not a big deal to do it, just buy a book and learn it!
2006-07-19 12:27:08 · answer #6 · answered by clara 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋