McCombs
Panel Warm to Touch? Burning Smell? Breakers Tripping Constantly?
These are electrical fire hazards. Don't wait for an emergency. Professional panel upgrades by licensed PE-led electrical contractor. Call now: (850) 994-5467
Electrical Panel Upgrade | Safe, Professional Service in Northwest Florida
When Your Electrical Panel Can't Keep Up with Modern Life, It's Time to Upgrade
Your electrical panel is the heart of your home's electrical system. If your home was built before 1990, you probably have a 100-amp panel that was adequate when homes had fewer electrical demands. Back then, you didn't have central AC, computers in every room, multiple TVs, electric car chargers, and a kitchen full of modern appliances all running at once.
Today's homes need 200-amp or even 400-amp service. An undersized panel doesn't just trip breakers—it's a fire hazard. Older panels, especially Federal Pacific and Zinsco brands, have known safety issues that put your family at risk.
McCombs Electrical Heating & Air has been upgrading electrical panels throughout Northwest Florida since 1974. We're led by Josh Rogers, a Professional Engineer, which means engineering precision on every panel upgrade. We don't guess at load calculations—we engineer them.
Most panel upgrades take one day. Your power is off for 4-6 hours while we work. By evening, you've got a modern electrical system that can safely handle everything your family needs.
electrical services in Milton and Northwest Florida
Call (850) 994-5467 for a professional panel upgrade assessment.
Schedule Your Service Today:
Contact us to book an appointment for your electrical or HVAC needs.
Dangerous Panels That Need Immediate Replacement
Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) Panels - Known Fire Hazard
Federal Pacific Electric panels were installed in millions of homes from the 1950s through 1980s. Research has shown that FPE breakers fail to trip up to 60% of the time during overcurrent conditions.
Why they're dangerous: When breakers don't trip, wires overheat, insulation melts, and fires start inside walls.
How to identify them: Look for "FPE" or "Federal Pacific" on the panel. Breakers are typically red and orange Stab-Lok breakers.
What to do: Replace immediately. Don't wait. These panels have caused numerous house fires.
We replace FPE panels regularly throughout Northwest Florida. Most replacements are completed in one day.
Zinsco Panels - Another Known Hazard
Zinsco (also sold as Sylvania or Challenger) panels have a design flaw that causes breakers to fuse to the bus bar. When this happens, breakers can't be removed and won't trip properly.
Why they're dangerous: Fused breakers won't shut off power during overload or short circuit conditions. The panel itself can melt and catch fire.
How to identify them: Look for "Zinsco," "Magnetrip," "Sylvania," or "Challenger" on the panel label. Breakers are typically colorful (blue, red, orange).
What to do: Replace as soon as possible. These panels fail without warning.
Split-Bus Panels - Obsolete Design
Split-bus panels have two main sections with no single main breaker. While not inherently dangerous like FPE or Zinsco, they're obsolete and problematic.
Why they're outdated: No single main shutoff. In emergencies, you can't quickly kill all power. Also, adding capacity is difficult or impossible.
What to do: Consider replacement, especially if you're planning any electrical work.
Aluminum Wiring Panels
Homes built in the 1960s-1970s often have aluminum wiring. Aluminum expands and contracts differently than copper, causing connections to loosen over time.
Why they're concerning: Loose connections create heat and fire risk.
What to do: Special precautions and connections required. Often makes sense to upgrade to modern panel with proper aluminum-rated connections or rewire to copper.
Panel Upgrade Process
What to Expect from Start to Finish
Step 1: Assessment and Load Calculation
We visit your property and assess:
- Current panel size and condition
- Total electrical load (what you're using now)
- Planned additions (EV charger, hot tub, etc.)
- Service entrance condition
- Main breaker rating
- Utility connection adequacy
Using engineering principles, we calculate the proper panel size for your needs. Not guesses—actual load calculations.
Most homes need 200-amp service. Larger homes or those with multiple high-demand items (pool, hot tub, workshop, EV charger) may need 400-amp service.
Step 2: Detailed Proposal
We provide a clear proposal explaining:
- Recommended panel size and type
- Scope of work
- Timeline
- Pricing (discussed upfront)
- Permits required
Any additional work needed (service entrance upgrade, meter base, etc.)
Step 3: Permitting
We handle all permit applications with local building departments. Electrical panel upgrades require permits in all jurisdictions. We coordinate with inspectors and manage the paperwork.
Never hire anyone who suggests skipping permits. This is illegal, dangerous, and will cause problems when you sell your home.
Step 4: Utility Coordination
Power company needs to disconnect service before we work. We coordinate the disconnect and reconnect with your utility (Gulf Power, etc.). We schedule this to minimize disruption.
Step 5: Panel Replacement
On installation day:
- Your power will be off for 4-6 hours
- We remove the old panel
- Install new panel with proper grounding
- Transfer all circuits to new breakers
- Label everything clearly
- Upgrade any unsafe wiring we discover
- Clean up completely
Step 6: Inspection
Building inspector verifies the installation meets code. We coordinate the inspection and address any items noted. Most inspections pass on first visit.
Step 7: Final Utility Connection
After inspection approval, utility reconnects service to your new panel. You've got power with modern, safe electrical service.
Step 8: Documentation
You receive:
- Permit copy (important for home sales)
- Inspection approval
- Circuit directory
- Panel specifications
- Warranty information
Timeline: Most residential panel upgrades are completed in 1-2 days from permit to final inspection.
Financing available for qualifying projects.
Types Of Panel Upgrades We Perform
100-Amp to 200-Amp Upgrade
Most common upgrade in Northwest Florida.
100-amp service was standard through the 1980s. It's inadequate for modern homes with central AC, electric heat, multiple appliances, and modern electronics.
200-amp service provides adequate capacity for:
- Central air conditioning and heating
- Full kitchen with modern appliances
- Multiple TVs, computers, and electronics
- Washer, dryer, water heater
- Outdoor equipment
- One Level 2 EV charger
- Room for future expansion
Cost range: We provide clear pricing during assessment. Varies based on service entrance condition and additional work needed.
Timeline: Usually one day for panel replacement after permit approval.
150-Amp to 200-Amp Upgrade
Some homes have 150-amp service. This is better than 100-amp but still marginal for modern demands, especially if you're adding EV chargers or other high-draw equipment.
Upgrading to 200-amp provides adequate headroom for modern life and future additions.
Panel Replacement (Same Size)
Sometimes panel size is adequate but the panel itself needs replacement due to:
- Federal Pacific or Zinsco (safety hazard)
- Age and deterioration
- Obsolete design
- No room for additional circuits
- Damaged by water or corrosion
We replace panels with modern, safe equipment while maintaining the same service size.
Subpanel Installation
Adding capacity without full service upgrade.
Subpanels fed from your main panel can add circuit capacity for:
- Home additions
- Detached garage or workshop
- Outdoor kitchen
- Pool equipment
- Dedicated circuits for specific equipment
Subpanels are less expensive than full service upgrades when your main panel has adequate capacity but no physical space for more breakers.
200-Amp to 400-Amp Upgrade
For larger homes or properties with high electrical demands.
400-amp service is needed when you have:
- Large home (3,000+ square feet)
- Multiple HVAC systems
- Multiple EV chargers
- Pool and hot tub
- Workshop with heavy equipment
- Whole-home generator
- Future-proofing for more additions
400-amp service requires a different meter base and service entrance equipment. More complex than 200-amp upgrades but we handle these regularly.
Why Choose McCombs For Panel Upgrades
Engineering Expertise on Every Installation
Professional Engineer-Led Company
McCombs is led by Josh Rogers, PE (Professional Engineer, Florida License #75495). Electrical panel upgrades aren't just about swapping boxes—they require proper engineering.
Load calculations determine correct panel sizing. We don't guess based on square footage. We calculate actual electrical loads using engineering principles.
This matters. An undersized panel leaves you back where you started. An oversized panel wastes money unnecessarily.
50+ Years Experience in Northwest Florida
Since 1974, we've upgraded thousands of electrical panels throughout Milton, Pensacola, Pace, and surrounding areas. We know local code requirements, building department expectations, and utility company procedures.
Experience matters when coordinating permits, inspections, and utility disconnects.
Licensed Electrical Contractor (EC13014513)
We're fully licensed in Florida for residential and commercial electrical work. Our license guarantees:
- Proper training and testing
- Insurance requirements met
- Legal authority to pull permits
- Accountability to state licensing board
Never hire unlicensed electricians for panel work. It's illegal and extremely dangerous.
We Handle Everything
From initial assessment to final inspection, we manage the complete process:
- Load calculations
- Permit applications
- Utility coordination
- Installation
- Inspection scheduling
- Documentation
One company, complete solution.
Same-Day Service Area Coverage
Based in Milton, we serve all of Northwest Florida quickly. Milton, Pensacola, Pace, Gulf Breeze, Cantonment—we're close enough for fast response.
Quality Materials
We install quality panels from reputable manufacturers:
- Square D
- Siemens
- Eaton
- Cutler-Hammer
- GE
No off-brand panels. No shortcuts. Quality equipment that lasts.
Safety First
Electrical panels are life-safety systems. We never cut corners. Proper grounding, correct wire sizing, code-compliant installation, thorough testing—your family's safety comes first.
Panel Upgrade Cost Factors What Affects the Price of Your Upgrade
Electrical panel upgrade costs vary based on several factors. We provide clear, upfront pricing after assessing your specific situation.
Here's what affects the price:
Current Panel Size
Upgrading from 100-amp to 200-amp is straightforward. Upgrading to 400-amp requires more substantial work and equipment.
Service Entrance Condition
If your service entrance (the wires from the utility to your panel) is old or undersized, it may need replacement. This adds cost but is often necessary.
Meter Base
Older meter bases may need replacement, especially for 400-amp upgrades. Sometimes the utility requires new meter equipment.
Panel Location
Exterior panels are simpler than interior panels in finished spaces. Difficult access increases labor.
Additional Work Needed
- Grounding system upgrades
- Main bonding jumper installation
- GFCI/AFCI breaker requirements
- Circuit relabeling
- Aluminum wiring modifications
- Subpanel additions
Permit Fees
Building permit costs vary by jurisdiction but are typically $100-300. We include permit costs in our quotes.
Circuit Quantity
More circuits mean more labor transferring to the new panel. Most homes have 20-40 circuits.
Code Compliance Updates
New panels must meet current code. This might require:
- AFCI breakers (arc-fault protection)
- GFCI breakers for specific circuits
- Proper grounding upgrades
- Smoke detector circuit compliance
We provide complete pricing during our assessment. No surprises.
Common Panel Upgrade Questions (FAQ)
Most residential panel upgrades are completed in one day. Your power will be off for 4-6 hours during installation. Larger upgrades (400-amp service) or those requiring service entrance replacement might take two days. We schedule to minimize disruption to your family.
No need to leave. You'll be without power for several hours, so plan accordingly (no AC, no refrigerator, no computers). Some homeowners choose to be away during the work, but it's not required.
Yes. All panel upgrades require electrical permits. We handle all permit applications and inspections. Never hire anyone who suggests skipping permits—it's illegal and will cause problems when you sell your home.
Panel upgrade costs vary based on current panel size, desired capacity, service entrance condition, and additional work needed. We provide clear, upfront pricing after assessing your specific situation. During our assessment, we'll explain all costs so you can make an informed decision.
Sometimes. If you have 200-amp service but an old or full panel, we can replace just the panel. However, if you're upgrading from 100-amp to 200-amp capacity, the entire service entrance typically needs upgrading.
Service upgrade refers to increasing capacity from utility to your home (100-amp to 200-amp service). Panel upgrade can mean replacing just the panel box with a new one of the same or different capacity. Most "panel upgrades" involve both.
Most single-family homes need 200-amp service. Upgrade to 400-amp if you have:
- Large home (3,500+ square feet)
- Multiple HVAC systems
- Multiple EV chargers planned
- Pool, hot tub, and significant outdoor equipment
- Workshop with heavy machinery
- Whole-home generator
We'll assess your actual needs and recommend appropriately.
Absolutely. We replace these hazardous panels regularly. This is urgent safety work—these panels are known fire hazards and should be replaced immediately.
No. The panel itself doesn't use electricity—it distributes it. Your usage determines your bill, not panel capacity. In fact, properly sized panels with modern breakers are more efficient and safer.
Yes. We warranty our workmanship. Additionally, the equipment (panel, breakers) carries manufacturer warranties. We provide all documentation.
We install quality panels from reputable manufacturers: Square D, Siemens, Eaton, Cutler-Hammer, and GE. We recommend specific brands based on your needs and what's best for your installation.
Yes. Panel upgrade is the perfect time to add circuits for new outlets, dedicated appliance circuits, or outdoor equipment. We can add circuits as part of the upgrade.
Service Areas Panel Upgrades Throughout Northwest Florida
Milton, FL - Our home base. Fast panel upgrade service throughout Milton from Bagdad to Avalon.
Pensacola, FL - Complete panel upgrade service throughout Pensacola. Historic homes to new construction.
Pace, FL - Panel upgrades for growing Pace homes adding modern electrical demands.
Gulf Breeze, FL - Coastal property panel upgrades with corrosion-resistant equipment.
Cantonment, FL - Rural property panel upgrades including 400-amp service for larger homes.
Plus: Navarre, Jay, Century, Bagdad, Avalon, Molino, Gonzalez, and all surrounding areas.
Ready To Upgrade Your Electrical Panel?
Call Our Milton Office
(850) 994-5467Business Hours:
Monday-Friday: 6:30 AM - 4:30 PMWe Respond Fast:
Panel assessments typically scheduled within 2-3 days
Don't wait for breakers to fail or fires to start. If you're experiencing any warning signs, call for a professional assessment. We'll evaluate your panel, explain your options, and provide clear pricing.
Licensed | Insured | PE-Led | 50+ Years Experience
Serving: Milton | Pensacola | Pace | Gulf Breeze | Cantonment | All Northwest Florida
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