Signs You Need a Main Panel Upgrade —Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Most homeowners don’t think about their electrical panel until something goes wrong. But your main panel is the “heart” of your home’s electrical system, and when it’s overloaded or outdated, it can put your home and family at risk.

Here are the most common warning signs that it’s time to upgrade your main electrical panel:

1. Frequent Breaker Trips
If your breakers are constantly tripping, your panel may not be able to handle the electrical load of today’s appliances, HVAC systems, and EV chargers.

2. Flickering or Dimming Lights
Lights that flicker when you turn on other appliances are a clear sign your panel is struggling to distribute power safely.

3. Burn Marks or a Burning Smell
Any visible burn marks on the panel or outlets, or the smell of burning plastic, is a serious red flag and should be addressed immediately.

4. Your Panel Is More Than 30 Years Old
Even if your panel seems fine, older equipment (especially Federal Pacific or Zinsco) may not meet modern safety codes and could fail during inspections.

5. Plans to Add Solar, a Battery, or EV Charger
New technology demands more from your electrical system. Utilities and inspectors often require a panel upgrade before approving solar or storage installations.

Why Act Now?

Avoid Emergency Costs: Waiting until your panel fails can mean expensive repairs and downtime.
Prepare for Clean Energy: California is moving rapidly toward electrification — EVs, heat pumps, and solar storage all rely on a safe, modern panel.
Boost Home Value: Homes with upgraded electrical panels and solar-ready infrastructure are more attractive to buyers.

Ally Electric & Solar Can Help

Our team has upgraded thousands of panels across the Bay Area — from older homes with Zinsco panels to brand-new solar-ready systems. We take care of:

Permitting and code compliance
Professional installation
Utility coordination for solar and storage approvals

📞 Schedule a FREE inspection today
Ally Electric & Solar Inc.
855 Marina Bay Pkwy, Ste 280, Richmond, CA 94804
(510) 559-7700 | info@allyelectricandsolar.com
CA Contractor License: 806465

Signs You Need a Main Panel Upgrade —Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Why Act Now?

Ally Electric & Solar Can Help

855 Marina Bay Pkwy Ste. 280 - Richmond, Ca 94804 - TEL: 510.559.7700

CSLB LICENCE C10 & C46 #806465 info@allyelectricandsolar.com

PROUDLY SERVING BAY AREA SINCE 2001