Electrical Panel Installation — Safe Power for Every Circuit
Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s system. If it’s undersized, outdated, or constantly tripping, it’s time for an upgrade. I handle electrical panel installation and upgrades in Pacifica and nearby cities, making sure your home or business has the safe, reliable power it needs.
Why Panel Upgrades Matter
Many homes in Pacifica and the Bay Area still run on 60A or 100A panels from decades ago. These panels weren’t designed for EV chargers, modern appliances, or smart homes. Add coastal fog and salty air, and breaker connections corrode even faster. An upgrade isn’t just convenience — it’s safety.
Common Problems I See
- Frequent breaker trips when running multiple appliances.
- Panels with no space for new circuits (EV, kitchen, HVAC).
- Rust and corrosion from moisture and salt air.
- Fuse boxes still in service — outdated and unsafe.
- No AFCI/GFCI protection in bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.
- Overheating breakers or a burnt smell from the panel.
What I Do (Step by Step)
- Inspect your current panel and calculate total load needs.
- Install modern 200A+ panels with space for future growth.
- Add AFCI breakers for living areas and GFCI breakers for wet zones.
- Replace corroded bus bars and unsafe connections.
- Label circuits clearly for easy control and future service.
- Coordinate with PG&E for safe service upgrades when required.
Pacifica & Coastal Details
Homes in Sharp Park and Rockaway Beach often show heavy corrosion inside panels due to fog and salt air. I use corrosion-resistant breakers and seal penetrations to extend panel life. In older Fairmont apartments, many panels are undersized or improperly bonded — upgrades are a must before adding heavy loads like dryers or EV chargers.
FAQ
Do I really need a panel upgrade?
If your panel is undersized, constantly tripping, or has no room for new circuits, yes. Upgrades add both capacity and safety.
What size panel should I get?
Most modern homes go with 200A panels. For homes adding EV chargers or solar, bigger capacity ensures room to grow.
Is replacing a fuse box necessary?
Yes. Fuse boxes don’t provide today’s safety standards. A new breaker panel is safer and easier to maintain.
