Main Panel Upgrades & Replacements in Arizona

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Your home's electrical panel is the heart of your electrical system. Whether you're planning a remodel, adding large appliances, installing solar, or simply noticing signs of an aging panel, upgrading your main panel can significantly improve safety, performance, and energy capacity.

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​​​​​​​​​​Why Upgrade Your Main Electrical Panel?

 

 

Over time, electrical panels can become outdated or overloaded. Common reasons to upgrade include:

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• Insufficient Amperage: Adding EV chargers, hot tubs, solar systems, or HVAC upgrades requires more power.

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• Old or Unsafe Panels: Panels like Zinsco or Federal Pacific are known fire hazards and should be replaced.

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• Breaker Tripping Frequently: Signals overload or faulty breakers.

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• Home Expansion: Room additions or accessory dwelling units (ADUs) require more circuits.

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• Solar Installation Requirements: Utilities may require a larger panel for solar interconnection.

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Benefits of Upgrading Your Panel

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• Improved Safety — Reduces the risk of fires caused by overloaded or deteriorated systems.

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• Increased Capacity — Supports modern high-power appliances and future additions.

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• Better Energy Efficiency — A new panel ensures clean, consistent power delivery.

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• Home Value Boost — A modern electrical system is a major selling point.

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• Code Compliance — Meets the latest NEC and local Arizona codes.

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200 Amp vs. 400 Amp Panels – Which One Is Right for You?

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Upgrading your main electrical panel is a big decision — especially when you're choosing between a 200 amp and 400 amp system. The right choice depends on your home's size, how much power you use, and what you're planning for the future.

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200 Amp Panels

200 amp panels are the current standard for most homes in Arizona. They provide enough power for typical daily use, including standard appliances, central air conditioning, and even one electric vehicle charger.

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When 200 amps is a good fit:​

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• You don’t plan to add a second EV, solar batteries, or a pool

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• You just need a modern panel that’s up to code

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• You're looking for a cost-effective upgrade

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Pros:

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• Lower upfront cost

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• Enough power for most households

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• Approved for standard solar system interconnection

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400 Amp Panels

A 400 amp panel offers double the capacity, which makes it ideal if you’re expanding your home or adding high-energy systems. It’s especially smart if you’re investing in your property long-term.

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When 400 amps is a smart choice:

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• You have a large or custom-built home

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• You're installing multiple EV chargers

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• You're adding solar + battery storage

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• You're planning a pool, spa, or home addition

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• You want to future-proof your electrical system for 20+ years

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Pros:

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• Supports more circuits and larger loads

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• Handles multiple high-power systems at once

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• Avoids the need for another upgrade later

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​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Step-by-Step Process for Upgrading a Main Panel 

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1. Initial Consultation & Load Assessment

 

• A licensed electrician evaluates your current panel and power demands.

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• A load calculation is performed to determine the proper amperage for your home.

 

2. Permit Application

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• Your contractor pulls a permit with the local city or county building department (e.g., Phoenix, Scottsdale, Maricopa County).

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• Some areas may also require SRP or APS approval depending on your service provider.

 

3. Utility Coordination

 

• A temporary power shutoff is scheduled with your utility (SRP or APS).

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• For solar homes, Net Metering or Main Panel Upgrade (MPU) applications may be required.

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4. Panel Replacement Day​

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• Power is shut off.

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• The existing panel is safely removed and replaced with a new, code-compliant model.

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• New grounding/bonding systems may be installed.

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• Breakers and labeling are updated for clarity and safety.

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5. Utility Inspection & Reconnection

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• Utility inspects the panel and reconnects power.

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• This typically happens the same day or next business day, depending on scheduling.

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6. Final City/County Inspection

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• A city or county inspector ensures the upgrade meets NEC and local code requirements.

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• Once approved, the permit is closed.

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7. Job Completion & Documentation

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• You receive all documentation including inspection reports, load calculations, and warranty info.

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