Is your home’s electrical system keeping up with your modern power needs? Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system, distributing electricity safely throughout your property. When this critical component becomes outdated or fails, it can lead to serious safety hazards including electrical fires.

For Chicagoland homeowners, especially those in older homes throughout the south suburbs, understanding when it’s time for an upgrade is essential for both safety and efficiency. Most electrical panels have a lifespan of 25-40 years, but many homes in our area still have panels from the 1970s or earlier. Generally, any panel over 30 years old should be evaluated by a professional, as it may no longer meet current electrical code requirements or handle modern power demands.

Omar’s Advice

Signs, you need an electrical panel upgrade may include double tapped circuits. Which are multiple wires going to 1 circuit breaker, which is a code violation, the use of tandem for miniature breakers, which are not always approved to be installed in many circuit breaker panels, the circuit breaker panel is designed for a maximum number of circuits, and Once this is exceeded, it is best to replace the circuit breaker panel.”

What Are The Symptoms of a Bad Electrical Panel?

Watch for these warning signs that indicate your electrical panel needs attention:

  1. Frequent circuit breaker trips – If your breakers trip repeatedly when using appliances, this signals your panel can’t handle your current power needs.
  2. Flickering or dimming lights – Lights that flicker when major appliances turn on suggest your panel isn’t distributing power properly.
  3. Buzzing sounds or burning odors – These are serious warning signs that could indicate dangerous wiring issues or overheating components.
  4. Physical damage or rust – Visible corrosion, rust, or water damage on your panel compromises its functionality and safety.
  5. Still using fuses instead of circuit breakers – Fuse boxes, while once standard, don’t offer the safety features and capacity of modern circuit breaker panels.
  6. Warm or discolored outlets – Heat or discoloration around outlets or the panel itself indicates dangerous electrical issues.
  7. Home renovation needs – Adding major appliances or completing significant renovations often requires upgrading your electrical service.

Can I DIY This Job? Or Call in a Professional?

When it comes to electrical panel work, this is one home improvement project that should always be left to licensed professionals. Here’s why:

Professional Expertise Is Essential

  • Electrical panel replacement requires specialized knowledge of electrical codes and safety protocols.
  • Improper installation can lead to electrical fires, shock hazards, or invalidated home insurance.
  • Licensed electricians understand how to properly size your panel for your specific home’s needs.

Repair vs. Replace In some cases, minor issues can be repaired by a professional. However, if your panel is:

  • Over 30 years old
  • A known hazardous brand
  • Unable to meet your current electrical demands
  • Showing signs of damage or failure

Complete replacement is often the safest and most cost-effective long-term solution. While panel replacement typically costs between $1,500-$4,000 depending on amperage needs and complexity, this investment protects your home and family while providing the capacity for modern electrical demands.

Customer Success Story

My panel and circuit breakers were 46 years old and needed replacement immediately. I took my time anyway and had 5 estimates total because electrical work can be costly and confusing. I went with Excel and they were great from start to finish.” Brian — Chicagoland, IL

How Excel Electrical Technologies Can Help

Since 2000, Excel Electrical Technologies has been the trusted choice for homeowners throughout Chicago and the south suburbs. Our experienced team specializes in electrical panel upgrades with the highest standards of safety and workmanship.

When you choose us for your electrical panel replacement, you receive:

  • Locally owned expertise – We understand Chicagoland homes and their unique electrical challenges.
  • Comprehensive assessment – We’ll evaluate your current and future electrical needs to recommend the right panel size.
  • Professional installation – Our licensed electricians ensure everything meets or exceeds electrical code requirements.
  • Peace of mind guarantees – We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, a 10-year warranty on workmanship, a 5-year warranty on parts we supply, and guaranteed price quotes.

We take pride in going beyond just replacing your panel. Our technicians will identify and correct any existing wiring irregularities, ensuring your entire electrical system is safe and reliable for years to come.

Areas Served

We proudly serve homeowners throughout Chicagoland, including Burr Ridge, Chicago, Chicago Heights, Evergreen Park, Flossmoor, Frankfort, Homewood, Hazel Crest, Homer Glen, Lemont, Matteson, Merrionette Park, Mokena, Oak Forest, Oak Lawn, Olympia Fields, Orland Park, Palos Hills, Palos Park, and Tinley Park.

Ready for a Safer, More Reliable Electrical System?

Don’t wait until electrical problems become emergencies. Contact Excel Electrical Technologies today for a hassle-free, no-pressure quote on upgrading your electrical panel. Our team of local professionals is ready to assess your needs and provide expert service you can trust.

Contact us today!

to schedule your electrical panel evaluation today.

Excel Electrical Technologies – Your trusted local electrical experts since 2000