Safe Panel Changeouts Done Right
We replace outdated electrical panels to improve safety, reliability, and power for your home or business.
Panel Changeouts
If your electrical panel is old, overloaded, or showing signs of trouble, a panel changeout is one of the most important upgrades you can make to your home or small commercial property. At Hatchett Electrical Services, Inc., we help customers replace outdated electrical panels with safe, dependable equipment that can handle today’s power needs. This service improves safety, helps prevent breaker problems, and gives you the electrical capacity you need for modern appliances, HVAC systems, home offices, EV chargers, and future upgrades.
Your electrical panel is the main control center for your power system. It takes electricity from the utility service and sends it to the circuits throughout your property. When a panel starts to fail or no longer has enough space or amperage, you may notice flickering lights, breakers that trip often, buzzing sounds, warm panel surfaces, or signs of rust and wear. In some cases, insurance companies may also raise concerns about certain outdated panel brands or damaged equipment. When that happens, a professional panel replacement is often the safest and smartest next step.
When a Panel Changeout May Be Needed
We commonly recommend panel changeouts when a panel is out of date, damaged, undersized, or no longer meets the electrical demand of the building. Many older homes were built for a much smaller load than what families use now. Central air, tankless water heaters, kitchen upgrades, workshops, hot tubs, and electric vehicle charging can all place extra demand on a system. If your current panel is full, has no room for new breakers, or still relies on old components, it may be time to replace it.
Common reasons to schedule a panel changeout include:
- Frequent breaker trips or inconsistent power
- An outdated fuse box or obsolete panel
- Scorch marks, corrosion, moisture damage, or a burning smell near the panel
- A panel that is fully occupied with no room for additional circuits
- Home renovations, additions, or major appliance upgrades
- Service upgrades, such as moving from 100-amp to 200-amp service
- Insurance or real estate requirements during a sale or inspection
What Our Panel Changeout Service Includes
When we perform a panel changeout, we start by evaluating the condition of the existing panel, service equipment, grounding, and connected circuits. We look at the amperage of the current service, the age of the equipment, the number of circuits, and whether the panel is meeting code and practical use needs. From there, we explain our recommendations clearly so you know what is being replaced, why it matters, and what options make sense for your property.
Our panel changeout service may include:
- Removal of the existing electrical panel
- Installation of a new breaker panel with the proper capacity
- Replacement of breakers as needed
- Proper labeling of circuits for easier use and maintenance
- Inspection of grounding and bonding components
- Replacement or upgrade of service entrance equipment when required
- Coordination with utility shutoff and reconnect if needed
- Permit and code-compliant installation based on local requirements
- Testing of circuits and panel operation after installation
Every property is different, so the exact scope can vary. In some cases, the work is a straight panel swap. In others, we may need to address damaged conductors, code issues, meter components, grounding upgrades, or service entrance problems to complete the job safely and correctly.
Benefits of Replacing an Old Electrical Panel
A new electrical panel does more than replace worn parts. It gives your building a stronger, safer foundation for daily power use. For many customers, a panel changeout solves ongoing electrical headaches and makes future upgrades much easier.
- Improved safety: New panels and breakers help reduce the risk of overheating, arcing, and electrical fire hazards caused by failing or outdated equipment.
- Better reliability: Properly functioning breakers and connections help provide steadier power throughout the property.
- More capacity: A larger or better-designed panel creates room for added circuits and increased electrical demand.
- Support for modern upgrades: A new panel can better support EV chargers, HVAC improvements, remodeling projects, workshops, and kitchen or bath additions.
- Code compliance: Replacing old equipment can help bring your electrical system closer to current safety requirements.
- Better property value: Updated electrical equipment can be a strong selling point for buyers, inspectors, and insurance providers.
Panel Sizes and Service Capacity
One of the most common questions we get is whether a customer needs a standard panel replacement or a full service upgrade. Many older homes have 60-amp or 100-amp service, while newer homes often need 150-amp or 200-amp service to handle larger electrical loads. The right size depends on the square footage, major appliances, HVAC equipment, water heating, cooking equipment, laundry, garage needs, and future plans for the property.
We help you determine whether your project needs a like-for-like panel replacement or a higher-capacity upgrade. If a 200-amp panel changeout is the right fit, we will explain the process and scope clearly. Our goal is to install equipment that fits your current usage while also allowing practical room for future growth.
Signs You Should Not Ignore
Electrical panel issues can start small and get worse over time. If you notice warning signs, it is best to have the panel inspected sooner rather than later. Delaying repairs or replacement can increase the chance of damaged circuits, appliance problems, or unsafe conditions.
Watch for:
- Breakers that trip repeatedly without a clear reason
- Lights dimming when large appliances turn on
- Crackling, buzzing, or humming from the panel
- Heat, discoloration, or burning odors near breakers
- Rust, moisture, or visible damage inside or around the panel
- Panel brands known for reliability or safety concerns
- An older fuse box still in service
Our Process
We believe customers should know exactly what to expect. When you call Hatchett Electrical Services, Inc. for a panel changeout, we take the time to inspect the system, answer questions, and give honest feedback. We explain the condition of the current equipment, the recommended panel size, and whether any related upgrades are needed. Once the scope is approved, we schedule the work, coordinate the necessary steps, complete the installation carefully, and test the system before we wrap up.
We work to keep disruption to a minimum and focus on clean, professional workmanship. Because the electrical panel is such a critical part of your property, we do not cut corners. We install quality components, follow code requirements, and make sure the finished system is clearly labeled and ready for safe daily use.
Why Customers Call Us for Panel Changeouts
Panel replacement is not a small repair. It is major electrical work that needs to be done the right way. Customers trust us because we bring real hands-on experience, clear communication, and attention to detail to every job. We understand how to spot underlying issues, explain options in plain language, and complete panel upgrades safely and efficiently.
Whether you are replacing an old breaker box, upgrading service for a renovation, or dealing with a panel that no longer feels safe, we are here to help. We will give you straightforward guidance and practical recommendations based on your property, your electrical load, and your long-term needs.
Schedule a Panel Changeout Estimate
If your panel is outdated, full, damaged, or simply not keeping up with your electrical needs, now is the time to get it checked. A professional panel changeout can improve safety, reliability, and peace of mind. Contact Hatchett Electrical Services, Inc. today to schedule an inspection or estimate. We are ready to help you upgrade your electrical panel with safe, code-conscious work you can count on.
Our Panel Changeout Process
At Hatchett Electrical Services, Inc., we make panel changeouts simple, safe, and well-organized. Our process is built to protect your home, reduce downtime, and give you confidence from the first call to the final inspection.
Evaluation, Load Check & Clear Quote
We start with a thorough on-site evaluation of your existing electrical panel, service size, grounding, and circuit load demands. Then we explain your options in plain language and provide a clear quote, timeline, and scope so you know exactly what to expect before work begins.
Permit, Scheduling & Service Planning
Once approved, we handle the scheduling, permit coordination, and utility planning needed for a smooth panel replacement. We map circuits, confirm code requirements, and set a realistic install window to keep power interruption as short and predictable as possible.
Panel Swap, Testing & Final Walkthrough
On service day, we complete the panel changeout with careful labeling, clean workmanship, and code-compliant connections throughout the system. After testing breakers, grounding, and circuit performance, we walk you through the new panel, answer questions, and leave the area neat and ready for inspection.
Panel Changeout FAQs
Here are the questions we hear most often about electrical panel changeouts. We want you to feel informed, comfortable, and confident before you schedule service with Hatchett Electrical Services, Inc.
Why Homeowners Recommend Us
Honest feedback on panel upgrades, safer service, and the kind of work people trust in their homes.
"Had them wire my shed from the existing extension cord set up to hard wired to my breaker panel....the work was done exceptionally and up to code!!!! Price was very very fair and was done in a couple of hours... I thought it would take longer and cost more.....will be calling them again for any electrical projects"
"Highly recommend! We had them come to install some fixtures at our home and we are very satisfied. Great work at a fair price."
"Aaron Hatchett came to the rescue after THE BIG WINDSTORM had torn the main power line from our house and we could not get help. He said "there is no way I can leave you here in danger with this thing hanging by a thread". He not only knew what to do to repair the problem, but he also knew what he had to do to work with the city inspector and the electric company. He stayed in clear communication, saved us money, and went above and beyond."
"Hatchett Electrical did an outstanding job replacing numerous panel boxes at several apartment/commercial properties we own. They worked through the process with Dominion and the cities public works and utility departments thoroughly and very knowledgeably. Hatchett also worked on other residential projects and did a great job. I highly recommend Hatchett Electrical for any commercial or residential electrical work."
"Hatchett Electrical was GREAT! They were punctual, honest, and did a great job! We had an issue with our bathroom receptacles and Chris had everything back up and running smoothly for us! He checked out our electrical box and discovered a few issues that he corrected for us as well. We were very grateful for his help. We would highly recommend this company and plan to use them again soon for more upcoming electrical projects. A++"
"I highly recommend Hatchett Electrical. I hired them to install permanent pole lighting and an electrical outlet on a pier I had constructed the previous year. The pier had an electrical connection for a boat lift installed by another electrician. Although problems were discovered by Hatchett Electrical, caused by the previous electrician, Aaron and company were able to work through this in a very professional manner. Their price was fair, they were very responsive as we worked through issues. I repeat. I HIGHLY recommend this company for any of your current and future electrical needs. Aaron is the best!"
"On time, On budget, great communication and follow up.. what more could you ask for!!!!"
"What a great bunch of folks!! Aaron worked HARD to ensure my electrical was perfect for my home remodel. He was on the phone negotiating when there were problems with vendors. He was my champion when things didn’t go quite as planned (through no fault of Hatchett Electrical). I met two different crews during their work with us. Both crews were personable, competent professionals, and very helpful when asked to do something new. My project was not a common everyday install, but there was no hesitation to venture into new territory and I believe they were just as excited as I was to ‘figure it out’. Eric and Nate especially were tasked with the majority of the install. From electrical panels to light switches to overhead inserts to countertop lighting, they did EVERYTHING as requested, even when mistakes were made that others may have become frustrated by. It is not often that you can feel 100% confident that your request will be completed with exemplary workmanship. This, however is the case with Hatchett Electrical. Their steadfast determination to provide a professional product was evident at every turn. Without any hesitation, I wholeheartedly recommend them. I could not be more pleased with everything that they did for my project. Outstanding, excellent work! They will most definitely be my go to electrical team moving forward!"
"Hatchett electrical provided outstanding service! They were prompt and very thorough."
"Bud did an excellent job hooking up my shed to have constant power so that I no longer need to use extension cords ran from the front door."
"Hatchett is a wonderful company to do business with. Everyone is very nice, yet also very professional. They've done a couple of things for me. I've already recommended them to others."
"Hatchett Electrical has completed multiple projects at our home and we are incredibly satisfied every time with the quality of work and professionalism! Everything is explained well and they truly take pride in their work! Strongly recommend!"
"Always ready to help and easy to work with!"
"Issue: a simple 120V light switch in kitchen that controls garbage disposal stopped working, and the wire was still HOT! As a homeowner, I bought new light switch thinking that was issue, change out, still no power. I called Aaron at Hatchett to make an appointment. He was gracious and professional to a point where he quickly trouble-shot the problem, suggested hitting the reset button on the disposal; which correctly the issue. He could have driven out, made the $120 plus cost for any materials, but he was more concern about resolving an issue. That is customer service and a business that is all about you the homeowner!! Bravo Zulu!!"
"I recently called Hatchett Electrical, last minute on a Monday, and was immediately set-up with an appointment for that same afternoon! The electrician was already finished with his jobs for the day but took the call to come to my house that afternoon around 3pm. He was right on time, walked me through the initial troubleshooting, and was very straight forward and honest the whole time during the appointment. He found and fixed our issue with some bad connections outside on our patio in less than an hour! I was highly impressed with the customer service of this company and will definitely use them again."
"I've utilized Hatchett Electrical Services on two occasions since moving into the area. The service was professional, timely, and completed as quoted. I highly recommend their services."
"Hatchett Electrical has done work multiple times in my home including replacing fixtures and updating switches and receptacles to meet code. They’re very responsive and professional."
"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We recently hired this electrical contractor for work on our home, and I cannot say enough good things about the experience. From the very first phone call, they were professional, courteous, and incredibly knowledgeable. They took the time to explain everything clearly, answered all of our questions, and made sure we felt comfortable with the plan before any work began. The quality of the workmanship was outstanding. Every detail was handled with care and precision, and it’s clear they take great pride in what they do. The job was completed on time, the work area was left spotless, and everything functions perfectly. It’s such a relief to have confidence that the electrical work in our home was done safely and up to code. I highly recommend this company to anyone in need of electrical services."
"The team showed up early and did a fantastic job installing 4 ceiling fans. Very professional crew and would highly recommend them to everyone"
"Professional service, priced as quoted, no surprises. A positive experience. I will be using Hatchett Electrical for all of my electrical needs in the future."
"Working with Hatchett Electrical Services, Inc. was a very pleasant experience. They were on time, clean, very professional, and quick. Aaron, the owner, is an awesome guy as well as his team! We had a slight mishap with the installation of some GFI outlets and he was back out to fix it the very next day and we have had no issues since. I would highly recommend Hatchett Electrical to anyone seeking electrical installation/upgrading/quick fixes."
"Great service...- Very thorough and fair in pricing. Good workmanship and completed the job with great results. I would definitely recommend. Will use Hatchett Electric in the future. Great, organized folks to work with."
"The folks at Hatchett Electrical Services did the electrical work on our remodeled bathroom and I was very impressed at the quality of their work and the professionalism that they showed. They were pleasant, knowledgeable, patient and cleaned up when they were done. I have since used them for a few other unrelated projects, today they installed two outdoor motion sensor lights, and again have been very pleased. I have recommended them to family, friends and neighbors. Over this past weekend we experienced a bank of outlets quit working. I called first thing this morning, and before noon Jeremy and Andrew were here and fixed the problem in short order. I will only use Hatchett Electrical for our electricity needs."
"Dear Officer Manager Cheryl Carpenter: I am thanking you for taking your most valuable time and great communications of directing me into the right direction of getting you're top-rated professional technician! Arriving to my home residents in a great timely manner and getting the job/project in a very swiftly and a greatly working professional performance!! (A greatly job well done too) Hatchett Electrical Services Inc. Deserves A five-star professional performances!! PS. A FIVE STAR RATINGS (*****)!!!! I THANK-YOU-!!!! Sincerely yours, Gary Harvest. From Windsor, Virginia 23487."
"I have used this business multiple times over the span of several years. I have received top notch service, professional and timely responses and have had nothing but good experiences with all of their employees. Highly recommend and a great value for your money."
"I have been using Hatchett Electrical Services, Inc. for a number of years now and they have always provided great service at great prices. I would highly suggest using them for your electrical needs."
"Needed porch lights on the garage and a whole new updated breaker box to replace the old 1960"s fuse box. Work was faster than projected and all looks and works great. Now we have an up-to-date "Safe" breaker box for the garage, relocated light switches and bright porch lights. . Thanks Hatchett for such great work and service.......ja"
"Have used Hatchett Electrical both personally and professionally…they have done. Great job and are willing to troubleshoot until it’s right!!"
"Electricians were courteous, professional, efficient and on time. We are satisfied with the work they did."
"I can’t say enough good things about Hatchett Electrical. They came out in the snow to replace my generator battery, making sure my home stayed safe and powered. Their dedication and kindness mean so much. Grateful for companies that truly show up!"
"Professional, experienced crews !!"
"Very professional and explained my issue well, at first he said he couldn't get to me till Monday and would come by today to give me an estimate after seeing how bad my issue was he couldn't let me wait powerless for three days and got it done same day, great customer service and the workers got the job done very fast."
"Great company with excellent attention and high quality work."
"We are in the process of selling our home and needed to replace a few ceiling fans. Hatchett’s team came out on short notice and was in and out within an hour. The mechanic was very courteous and very knowledgeable. Great service all around. 10/10 will recommend and use again."
"Hatchett Electricians were on time, very polite and did an excellent job throughout. They did all of the electrical work for our kitchen renovation, including repositioning canned lighting; installing new chandelier, pendant lighting, under mount lighting; wiring for appliances; upgrading electrical outlets, and the main electrical service panel to ensure proper load distribution. Thank you Shane and Erik."
"When I was told by Cox Communications that I had a problem with the grounding of my house, I called Hatchet and they were at my house within the hour. They checked it out completely and told me my house was fine and their charge was very reasonable. I have also had them do other minor electrical work for me and I have been very satisfied with the work and the price."
"I am a homeowner in Smithfield Virginia, and I contracted Hatchett Electrical to install a 30-amp charging station for my new RV. I was very pleased with the quality of the installation, the professionalism of the people performing the work, and the price of the installation. I would recommend this company to my friends and will utilize this company for any electrical work I may need in the future."
"Hatchett Electrical was on time to the appointment for the estimate and for the work after the contract was accepted. Worker perform their work in a professional manner. They clean up the work areas at completion of the job. I recommend Hatchett Electrical and would use their services again."
"We have used Hatchett Electrical on several occasions and have always been very satisfied! Their technicians are experienced and thorough, polite and personable! The work was done expeditiously and the rate(s) were very reasonable! They showed up as scheduled and finished in a timely manner! We highly recommend them!"
"From day 1 estimate to day 3 completion. From Aaron and Cheryl to the installers. Everything was on time, straight forward, clean and professionally executed. Truely a pleasure, I felt like the customer."
"Great friendly and reliable company. I wanted to be able to hook up my camper at home. They installed what I needed. It works great I couldn’t be happier."
"I can’t say enough good things about Hatchett Electrical! From the owner down to the installation crews, they were prompt, accommodating and easy to work with. This was a commercial installation in 2 warehouses and completed a day early. I highly recommend them."
"Top notch, quality work. If you want it done right the first time, these are your go-to electricians."
Book Your Panel Changeout Today
Protect your home, boost reliability, and schedule trusted service before small issues become major hazards.