If you live in the Chicagoland area and you’re starting to experience flickering lights, overloaded circuits, or you’re planning on adding new appliances or an EV charger, it’s probably time to consider upgrading your electrical panel. But how much does an electrical panel upgrade cost in Chicago, and what should you expect during the process?
At Voltek Electric, we specialize in helping homeowners across Arlington Heights, Glenview, and the greater Chicago area modernize their electrical systems safely and affordably. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about electrical panel upgrades, from why you might need one to what it will cost you.
Why Electrical Panel Upgrades Are Necessary
Your electrical panel is the brain of your home’s electrical system. It distributes power to various circuits and protects your home from overloads and short circuits via breakers.
Here’s why you may need to upgrade it:
1. Outdated Panels (Fuse Boxes or 100 Amp Service)
Older homes often have 60–100 amp panels or even fuse boxes, which aren’t designed to handle today’s electrical demands. Modern homes need 200 amps or more.
2. Installing High-Powered Appliances or EV Chargers
If you’re adding a hot tub, electric vehicle charger, new HVAC system, or high-demand kitchen appliances, your current panel may not be able to support the load.
3. Frequent Breaker Trips or Flickering Lights
This often signals overloaded circuits, loose wiring, or a failing panel.
4. Home Renovations or Additions
Any expansion of square footage typically requires increased electrical capacity.
5. Preparing to Sell Your Home
Upgrading your panel boosts resale value, satisfies inspection requirements, and improves safety ratings.
Common Signs You Need an Upgrade
- Breakers trip frequently
- Burnt or buzzing panel
- No room for new breakers
- Appliances underperform or fail
- Use of multiple power strips or extension cords
If you’re seeing any of these issues, it’s time to have a licensed electrician inspect your system.
Electrical Panel Upgrade Cost in Chicago
Typical Price Range:
$2,200 – $4,500 for most homes in Chicago, Glenview, and Arlington Heights
What Affects the Cost?
- Panel size upgrade (100A to 200A or 400A)
- Brand and quality of panel/breakers (Siemens, Square D, Eaton, etc.)
- Meter socket and service entrance upgrade
- Permit and inspection fees
- Complexity of job (panel relocation, conduit rerouting, etc.)
- Condo vs single-family home
Example Scenarios:
- Basic 100A to 200A upgrade in a single-family home: ~$2,400
- Panel relocation + service upgrade: $3,800–$4,200
- 400A upgrade for large home with EV + solar prep: $6,000+
Permit & Inspection Considerations in Chicago
In the City of Chicago and most nearby suburbs, panel upgrades require a permit. Here’s what to expect:
- Permit fees range from $250–$500
- Must follow Chicago Electrical Code, which often requires conduit vs Romex
- Work must be done by a licensed electrician and inspected by city officials
- Service shut-off coordination with ComEd may be required
Voltek Electric handles all permits, utility coordination, and inspections for you — so you can relax knowing it’s 100% code-compliant.
Why DIY Electrical Work Is Dangerous (and Illegal in Many Cases)
Upgrading a panel involves:
- Shutting off service at the meter
- Handling live wires
- Calculating correct loads
- Meeting strict code requirements
Mistakes can lead to house fires, shock hazards, failed inspections, or denied home insurance claims. Also, many cities require licensed contractors for this work.
Hiring Voltek Electric means you get:
- Work done to code
- Warranty and liability protection
- Peace of mind your home is safe
Voltek Electric: Trusted Experts Across Chicagoland
We serve:
- Arlington Heights
- Glenview
- Des Plaines
- Mount Prospect
- Chicago’s Northwest Suburbs
Our team is licensed, insured, and deeply experienced in panel upgrades, service changes, and high-demand installations.
Ready to Upgrade Your Panel?
Don’t wait for an electrical failure or inspection issue. Voltek Electric offers:
- Free estimates
- Permit + inspection handling
- Fast turnaround times
Call Voltek Electric today for a free quote or consultation.
Your safety — and your power — starts here.
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