SE Wisconsin's #1 Electrical Panel Repair & Upgrades Service

Common Electrical Panel Repairs

Electrical panels are the nerve centers of a home's electrical system, distributing power to all the circuits. Professional maintenance and regular inspections generally avoid costly repairs, but electrical panels require attention over time to keep your home's electrical system running safely and efficiently. Some of the most common electrical panel repairs in Southeastern Wisconsin include:

• Breaker replacement - When breakers frequently trip or no longer turn on and off properly, they are faulty and need replacement.
• Bus bar repair or replacement - Bus bars conduct electricity throughout the panel and become loose or corroded over time.
• Grounding system repair - Faulty grounding leads to electrocution and fire risks. Proper grounding is essential.
• Cable and wiring replacement - Damaged wires and cables present safety issues and must be replaced.
• Panel Upgrades - Accommodate added circuits and electricity demand with a new, larger capacity panel.
• Code compliance upgrades - Updates to bring an outdated panel up to the latest electrical code.
• Weatherproofing - For outdoor or damp location panels to protect against the elements.
• Cleaning and component tightening - Reducing dust, dirt and loose connections minimizes malfunctions within the system.

 

When Do You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade?

While electrical panels last 25-40 years with proper maintenance, there comes a point when replacement makes better financial sense than continuing repairs. Trawicki’s residential electricians come to your Southeastern Wisconsin home and determine the best path forward. Our electricians recommend repair or replacement depending on your situation, especially if the amps are insufficient for your home’s load. We often see homes running on a 60-100 amp panel when more is needed. The most common amps are 100 amps for smaller homes and 200-400 amps for larger homes.

Signs You Need An Electrical Panel Upgrade	Potential Cause
Frequent tripped breakers	Overloaded circuits
Flickering lights	Insufficient capacity
Buzzing/sizzling from outlets	Faulty wiring
Discolored outlets/switches	Short circuit risk
Inadequate overload protection	Not enough circuits
Outdated fuse panel	Lack of grounding
Water leakage/corrosion	Non-code compliance
Scorch marks	Insufficient amps

Benefits of Upgrading Your Panel

Upgrading your outdated electrical panel with Trawicki Electric provides important safety, performance and peace of mind benefits. A modern panel increases capacity, adds circuits, improves electrical flow and accommodates home expansions and new appliances. These upgrades reduce tripped breakers and overloaded wires. Key advantages include safer and up-to-code components, surge protection, future-proofing for smart homes, increased home value, potential insurance savings, greater energy efficiency and more reliable, stable power throughout your home.

Cost to Upgrade an Electrical Panel in Wisconsin

The cost to upgrade your home's electrical panel in Wisconsin typically ranges from $1,200 - $3,500 depending on the size, type and complexity. Key factors impacting electrical panel replacement price include:

• Scope of the upgrade - Service panel ($1,200-$2,500) only vs whole home rewiring ($8,000-$15,000+)
• Amp capacity needed - 100 amps ($1,200-$2,500) vs. 200 amps ($1,800-$3,500) or more ($2,500-$4,000)
• Type of panel - Main breaker ($1,500-$3,000), fuse to circuit breaker ($1,800-$3,500), or smart panel installation ($2,500-$4,500)
• Additional wiring required - For new circuits ($150 - $350 per circuit)
• Permits ($100 - $300) and labor ($50 - $100 per hour)
• Timeframe - Emergency rush upgrades cost more (Add 20-50% to the base price)
• Location - Difficult access increases the price ($200 - $500)
• Additional electrical upgrades - GFCI outlets ($140 - $250 per outlet), surge protection installation ($300 - $500), subpanel installation ($500 - $1,000)
• Removal and disposal of old panel ($100 - $200)

*The following price ranges reflect national averages. Call us for an accurate assessment and quote. 

Save Big with Available Tax Credits for Electrical Panel Upgrades

Take advantage of substantial savings through available tax credits for electrical panel upgrades. Credits allow homeowners to claim up to 30% of the project cost, with a maximum credit of $600, for qualifying upgrades completed between January 1, 2023 and December 31, 2032. To benefit from the credits, homeowners must utilize IRS Form 5695 and meet specific criteria, including compliance with the National Electric Code and a minimum load capacity of 200 amps. Additionally, there are annual aggregate limits for energy-efficient home improvements, with a total limit of $3,200 per year, enabling homeowners to maximize their savings by strategically planning upgrades.

Cost of Replacing Outside Electrical Box

The cost to replace an outside electrical meter box typically ranges from $500 to $2,100, depending on factors such as the amperage (100 amps costing $500 to $1,000, 200 amps $800 to $2,000), location, and installation complexity. Additional expenses may include labor costs ($50 to $130 per hour), permits ($50 to $350), and potential inspections ($100 to $200). If new power lines are required, costs can vary from $5 to $25 per linear foot. For accurate pricing tailored to your specific needs, it's advisable to consult a licensed electrician.

Contact Trawicki Electric for home electrical services near Menomonee Falls and across Southeastern Wisconsin.