Electrical Panel Upgrades During Home Renovations in Los Angeles: What Homeowners Need to Know

SKS BLOG

When planning a home renovation in Los Angeles, many homeowners focus on design upgrades like open-concept layouts, modern kitchens, or expanded living spaces. However, one of the most critical—yet often overlooked—components of a successful remodel is the electrical panel upgrade.

An outdated electrical panel can limit your renovation, create safety risks, and prevent your home from meeting current building codes in California. If you’re adding new appliances, HVAC systems, EV chargers, or smart home technology, upgrading your panel is not just recommended—it’s essential.

At SKS Construction, we help Los Angeles homeowners modernize their electrical infrastructure to ensure their renovated homes are safe, efficient, and future-ready.


Why Electrical Panel Upgrades Are Essential During Renovations

Modern homes demand significantly more power than homes built 20–40 years ago. Renovations often introduce new electrical loads that older panels simply cannot handle.

Common Renovation Additions That Require More Power:

  • High-efficiency HVAC systems
  • Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations
  • Tankless water heaters
  • Smart home automation systems
  • Modern kitchen appliances and induction ranges
  • Home offices and media rooms
  • Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

If your home still operates on a 100-amp panel or uses outdated fuse boxes, it may struggle to safely distribute electricity—leading to overloaded circuits and fire hazards.


Benefits of Upgrading Your Electrical Panel in Los Angeles

1. Improved Safety and Fire Prevention

Older panels were not designed for today’s electrical usage. Upgrading eliminates risks such as:

  • Overheating wires
  • Frequent breaker trips
  • Electrical arcing
  • Outdated or recalled panel brands

A modern electrical panel ensures compliance with safety standards enforced by the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety.


2. Code Compliance for Permitted Renovations

In Los Angeles, permitted remodeling projects often require electrical systems to be brought up to current code. Without a panel upgrade, your renovation may fail inspection—causing costly delays.

Electrical panel modernization helps ensure:

  • Permit approval
  • Inspection readiness
  • Insurance eligibility
  • Legal resale documentation

3. Capacity to Handle Modern Electrical Demand

Today’s homes require 200-amp service or higher to support energy-efficient systems and high-performance appliances. An upgraded panel provides:

  • Stable power distribution
  • Room for additional circuits
  • Support for future upgrades
  • Reduced risk of overload

4. Increased Property Value and Buyer Confidence

In competitive Los Angeles real estate markets, updated electrical systems are a major selling point. Buyers want homes that are:

  • Move-in ready
  • Energy-efficient
  • Code-compliant
  • Capable of supporting EVs and modern tech

An upgraded panel signals that the home has been professionally modernized—not just cosmetically renovated.


5. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

With California’s push toward electrification, homes are transitioning away from gas systems toward all-electric solutions. Panel upgrades enable:

  • Solar integration readiness
  • Battery storage compatibility
  • EV charging infrastructure
  • Reduced energy waste

Signs Your Home Needs an Electrical Panel Upgrade Before Renovating

If you notice any of the following, your home likely requires an upgrade before construction begins:

  • Breakers trip frequently
  • Lights dim when appliances turn on
  • You still have a fuse box
  • Panel is over 25 years old
  • You’re adding square footage or major appliances
  • You lack available circuit space
  • You plan to install EV chargers or solar

Ignoring these warning signs can stall your renovation midway through construction.


Why Electrical Upgrades Should Happen Early in the Renovation Process

Upgrading your panel at the start of your project allows contractors to:

  • Design electrical layouts correctly
  • Avoid tearing into finished walls later
  • Prevent costly change orders
  • Ensure seamless integration with new systems
  • Schedule inspections efficiently

Electrical infrastructure is the backbone of your renovation—addressing it first prevents downstream issues.


The SKS Construction Approach to Electrical Panel Upgrades

At SKS Construction, we integrate electrical modernization into the overall renovation strategy—not as an afterthought. Our process includes:

✔ Load Calculations & Power Demand Analysis

We assess your home’s current and future energy needs.

✔ Permit & Code Compliance Management

We coordinate approvals and ensure compliance with Los Angeles regulations.

✔ Seamless Integration With Renovation Plans

Electrical upgrades are aligned with your architectural and construction timeline.

✔ Future-Proofing Your Home

We design systems ready for solar, EVs, and emerging technologies.


Frequently Asked Questions About Electrical Panel Upgrades

Q: How long does an electrical panel upgrade take?
Most upgrades can be completed within 1–2 days, depending on complexity and utility coordination.

Q: Will I need to shut off power?
Yes, but outages are typically temporary and scheduled to minimize disruption.

Q: Is upgrading required if I’m not adding square footage?
If you're adding electrical load—even without expanding space—an upgrade may still be necessary.

Q: Does this help with future solar installation?
Absolutely. A modern panel ensures your home is solar-ready and avoids expensive retrofits later.


Invest in the Infrastructure Behind Your Renovation

A beautiful renovation is only as strong as the systems supporting it. Electrical panel upgrades ensure your Los Angeles home is:

  • Safe
  • Code-compliant
  • Energy-efficient
  • Ready for the future
  • Built to handle modern living

Schedule Your Electrical Panel Assessment Today

If you’re planning a home renovation in Los Angeles, don’t overlook one of the most important components of your project. Let SKS Construction evaluate your electrical system and design an upgrade that supports your vision while meeting California safety standards.

Contact SKS Construction today to schedule a consultation and ensure your renovation is powered for success.

Get An Estimate Today!

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