Electrical Panel Upgrades
100 Amp to 200 Amp & 400 Amp Panel Upgrades for Austin & Hill Country Homes
(512) 301-9111 — Free EstimateIs your home's electrical panel keeping up with your family's demands? Many Austin-area homes — especially those built before 2000 — have 100-amp panels that simply can't handle today's electrical loads. Between EV chargers, home offices, smart appliances, and HVAC systems, older panels are often pushed beyond their limits.
At Malco Electric, we've been upgrading electrical panels throughout Austin and the Texas Hill Country since 1983. Our licensed team handles everything from straightforward 200-amp upgrades to complex 400-amp service installations — including all permits, inspections, and utility coordination. Learn more about our team and licensing.
All panel upgrades in Austin require a permit from the City of Austin Development Services Department and must pass inspection. Malco Electric handles everything — you don't touch the paperwork. Learn how Austin electrical permits work and what to expect.
Panel Upgrade Services We Offer
100 to 200 Amp Upgrade
The most common upgrade for older Austin homes. Provides the capacity needed for modern electrical loads, EV chargers, and additional circuits — and is required by most utility companies before adding major equipment.
400 Amp Service
For larger homes with pools, workshops, guest houses, or multiple HVAC systems. Often installed as two 200-amp panels to distribute load efficiently.
Subpanel Installation
Add a subpanel to your garage, workshop, barn, or addition without upgrading your main service. Ideal for EV charger dedicated circuits and outbuilding power.
Meter Base Replacement
When upgrading amperage, the meter base often needs replacement. We coordinate directly with Austin Energy and Pedernales Electric Cooperative to manage the service disconnect and reconnect.
Fuse Box Replacement
Still have a fuse box? We'll upgrade you to a modern circuit breaker panel with improved safety, convenience, and capacity for today's electrical loads.
Generator Transfer Switch
Installing a whole-home generator? We install automatic transfer switches during panel upgrades for seamless backup power — doing both at once saves time and money.
Signs You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade
Our Panel Upgrade Process
Free Assessment
We evaluate your current panel, calculate your electrical load, and recommend the right solution for your home and future plans.
Permits & Scheduling
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.
Installation Day
Our licensed electricians complete the upgrade — typically in 4–8 hours — with minimal disruption to your day.
Inspection & Power On
We schedule the city inspection, coordinate service reconnection, and verify everything is working correctly before we leave.
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 4–8 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. Learn more about how the Austin electrical permit process works.
Panel Upgrade Service Areas
We provide electrical panel upgrades throughout Austin and the Texas Hill Country:
Ready to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel?
Free estimate from Austin's trusted electricians.
40+ years experience · Licensed & insured · No hidden fees.