If your home is more than 25 years old, or if you’re constantly dealing with flickering lights and tripping breakers, your electrical panel could be due for an upgrade. It’s one of those things you don’t think about until something stops working—but when it does, it can have major impacts on the safety, functionality, and value of your home.

📈 What Is an Electrical Panel, and Why Does It Matter?

Your electrical panel (often called a breaker box or fuse box) is the control center for all the electricity in your home. It distributes power to your lights, outlets, appliances, and systems. When it’s outdated or overloaded, it can’t safely keep up with your home’s energy needs.

⚠️ Signs You May Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade:

• Breakers trip frequently
• Lights dim or flicker when appliances run
• You still have a fuse box (instead of a breaker panel)
• The panel is warm or smells burnt
• You’re adding a high-power appliance (like a hot tub or EV charger)
• The panel is rated below 100 amps

⚖️ Is It Required to Upgrade?

Not always—but if you’re doing a major remodel, adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), or installing an EV charger, local codes may require a panel upgrade. More importantly, outdated panels (like Zinsco or Federal Pacific brands) are known fire risks.

🚀 What Are the Benefits?

• Increased Safety: Prevent overloads and reduce fire risk.
• Better Performance: Your home runs smoother without flickering or power loss.
• Future-Proofing: Be ready for EV chargers, solar systems, smart tech, and more.
• Home Value: A modern, updated panel is a major selling point.

🏡 Local Experts You Can TrustAt Reinhart Electric, we’ve been upgrading panels in Renton and the surrounding area for over 70 years. We offer:

Free estimates
1-year warranty on all work
Honest guidance and clean, code-compliant installations

Whether you’re upgrading for safety, renovation, or peace of mind, we’re here to help.

📅 Ready for a panel upgrade? Contact us today or call (425) 251-5201 to schedule your free estimate.