What's next?

What happens during a breaker boxreplacement?

Anytime a main breaker box is replaced, we are required to bring the main service up to modern code.  This will likely mean an updated grounding system, a whole house surge protector, a new meter can, and a new mast up through the roof if you have an overhead service to the house.  The work typically takes a full day and as long as the home is occupied (someone is living there) the power will be turned back on the same day. 

Why should I replace my breaker box?

Some people refer to the breaker box as a fuse box, a term for a box or panel that's not really in use in residential settings anymore. It’s common for each home to have two breaker boxes.  One will be outside where the electricity comes to the house from the electric company (main breaker box).  This is usually near the electrical meter outside of the house.  The other one is usually in the garage or a utility room.  The circuit breakers in these boxes are designed to trip when there is an electrical short or overload situation to protect the wiring.  Typically, the 240 volt breakers are in the main breaker box and your 120 volt breakers will be in the sub panel, but that is not always the case.

There are a few reasons why we would suggest replacing a breaker box, but first, let us tell you why you shouldn't replace a breaker box.  If you are having trouble with a breaker that keeps tripping and an electrician tells you that you have to replace the breaker box in order to fix the issue, have them show you the damage in the box that mandates this replacement. Replacing the breaker box to fix a single tripping breaker is like buying a new car to fix a flat tire. There is likely just some troubleshooting that needs to occur on that single circuit for this repair. 

It's a brand that went out of business for a reason.

There are two breaker box brands that we recommend replacing if you have either of them. They are Federal Pacific and Zinsco/Sylvania. Their breakers tend to not trip when they’re supposed to, putting your home’s wiring in danger. It’s a good idea to replace these breaker boxes. 

There's not enough room to add any extra power.

Some homes only have a 100 amp main breaker box and that won't support some of the larger load items like an EV charging station, pool, hot tub, etc.  You will want to increase your amperage and likely add some breaker space with an upgrade.

1. We'll talk about your options and put together a formal quote for you. 

2. If you have any questions now is the best time to ask. 

3. When you're ready, accept your quote. 

4. We'll begin the permitting process which can take about a week. Once the permit is active we'll be able to schedule the work with Austin Energy or PEC. If you're with Oncor, then you'll be able to schedule the work with them at this time. 

5. On the day that the work is to take place the power will be turned off, we'll begin our work, meet with inspectors and get the power turned back on. 

6. If we were able to get the final inspection on the same day as the work, everything is done. If not, we'll schedule a time for an inspector to stop by and take another look. 

What is a breaker box?