Why it matters
Upgrading panels in Austin since 1983
At Malco Electric, we've been upgrading electrical panels throughout Austin and the Texas Hill Country since 1983. Our licensed team handles everything from a straightforward 100 to 200 amp upgrade to 400 amp service for a house running an EV charger, a pool and more than one HVAC system.
All panel upgrades in Austin require a permit from the City of Austin Development Services Department and must pass inspection. Malco Electric handles the applications, the inspection and the utility coordination.
What a finished one looks like
What happens to your circuit directory
A panel is only as useful as its directory, so the labeling comes across with the upgrade. What that takes depends on what is on the old panel when we open it.
- Load calculation before anything is specified
- Permit, inspection and utility coordination handled
- Meter base replaced where the upgrade calls for it
- Existing labeling carried over to the new panel
When to call
Signs You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade
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Breakers that trip repeatedly
Especially on the same circuit, and especially when a large appliance starts.
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Lights that dim when appliances run
A visible dip when the AC or the dryer kicks in points at service capacity rather than at the fixture.
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A warm panel, or a burning smell
Heat or smell at the panel is not a wait-and-see item. Stop using the circuit and call a licensed electrician.
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No room to add a circuit
Adding an EV charger, a pool or hot tub, or a generator often needs more amperage than the existing panel provides.
How it goes
Our Panel Upgrade Process
- 01
Permits and utility coordination
We handle all permit applications and coordinate with Austin Energy or Pedernales Electric for the service disconnect. You don't deal with any of it.
- 02
The upgrade
Our licensed electricians complete the upgrade, typically in 4 to 8 hours, with minimal disruption to your day.
- 03
Inspection and sign-off
We schedule the city inspection, coordinate service reconnection, and verify everything is working correctly before we leave.
Related work
Related Electrical Services
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EV charger installation
Adding a charger is one of the most common reasons a panel runs out of capacity.
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Generators and backup power
A standby generator needs a transfer switch and the service to support it.
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Austin electrical permits
What triggers a permit in Austin, and what the inspection covers.
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Commercial electrical
Service upgrades, three-phase and subpanels for Austin businesses.
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Electrical inspections
A full assessment before a sale, a remodel or an insurance review.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an electrical panel upgrade cost in Austin?
Every home is different. The final cost depends on the amperage increase, panel location, permit requirements, and whether the meter base needs replacement. Because no two panels are identical, the only reliable way to get an accurate number is an in-person assessment. Malco Electric provides free estimates with honest, upfront quotes, no hidden fees or surprises.
How do I know if I need a panel upgrade?
Common signs include frequently tripping breakers, flickering lights when appliances run, a panel that's warm to the touch, a burning smell near the panel, or inability to add new circuits. If you're adding an EV charger, pool or hot tub, or a generator, you may also need more amperage than your current panel provides.
What size electrical panel do I need?
Most modern homes require 200-amp service. Older homes with 100-amp panels frequently need upgrades to support today's electrical demands. Larger homes with EV chargers, pools, or multiple HVAC systems may require 400-amp service. We perform a load calculation to determine your specific needs before recommending anything.
How long does an electrical panel upgrade take?
Most residential panel upgrades take 4 to 8 hours to complete. The process includes coordinating with your utility for a temporary disconnect, replacing the panel and meter base if needed, and scheduling the final inspection. We handle all the logistics.
Do I need a permit to upgrade my electrical panel in Austin?
Yes. Panel upgrades require a permit in Austin and throughout Texas. The work must be performed by a licensed electrician and pass inspection. Malco Electric handles all permit applications, inspections, and utility coordination.
Get started
Ready to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel?
Tell us what the panel is doing and we'll come look at it. Estimates are free.
Rather talk it through? (512) 301-9111