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Service Sam Electric
C10 · LIC #1125961
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Electrical Panel Upgrades in Los Angeles
Safe, code-compliant upgrades from 100A to 200A (or larger), sub-panels, and full replacements for obsolete Federal Pacific, Zinsco, and Challenger panels.
Starting from$1,850
Typical timeline1 day
A 1950s–1970s panel feeding a 2026 household is the most common electrical problem in Los Angeles. Most insurance carriers in California now flag Federal Pacific, Zinsco, and Challenger panels during underwriting, and many homes need a 200A upgrade before adding an EV charger, heat pump, or solar array. We handle the full job — permit pull, LADWP coordination, swap, and inspection.
Upgrades we handle
- 100A → 200A main panel upgrades (most common residential job)
- Federal Pacific, Zinsco, and Challenger panel replacements
- Sub-panel installation for ADUs, garages, detached shops
- Meter base and service entrance upgrades
- Whole-home surge protection installed at the panel
- Permit pulling and coordination with LADWP or SCE
- City inspection coordination and sign-off
Why upgrade
- Required before EV charger or solar PV installation
- Eliminates fire risk from obsolete breaker designs (FPE, Zinsco)
- Required or strongly recommended by most California home insurers
- Supports modern loads — induction cooking, heat pumps, dual EV households
- Boosts resale value — panel age is a standard buyer inspection item
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I have a Zinsco or Federal Pacific panel?
Open your panel cover. The manufacturer name is printed on the inside of the door or on a label near the main breaker. Zinsco and Federal Pacific (also labeled FPE or Stab-Lok) panels were installed heavily between about 1950 and 1980 in Southern California. If you're not sure, send us a photo of the inside of the panel door and we'll tell you within 24 hours — free.
How long does a panel upgrade take?
Most 100A → 200A residential upgrades are completed in one business day. The power is off for 4–6 hours during the swap. If the meter base or service drop also needs updating, the utility coordination can add a day to the schedule.
Do I need a permit?
Yes. We pull the permit through the city building department (LADBS, Glendale, Burbank, etc.) and handle the final inspection. The permit is included in your quote — no add-on surprises.
What if I'm not sure my panel needs upgrading?
Call us for a free on-site evaluation. We will check the panel label, look at the service size printed on the main breaker, inspect the condition of the breakers, and give you an honest assessment — often the answer is 'you're fine for now' and we tell you that too.
Ready for a panel upgrade quote?
Free in-home estimate. No pressure, no pushy sales.