Upgrade from 100A to 200A. Breaker replacements, code compliance, and PG&E coordination.
Most Oakland homes built before the 1990s have 100-amp electrical panels — and many still have the original breakers. That was enough for the appliances of the era, but it's nowhere close to what a modern household demands. Between air conditioning, electric ranges, home offices, and EV chargers, a 100A panel is a bottleneck that leads to tripping breakers, dimming lights, and real safety concerns.
200 amps is the new baseline. If you're adding an EV charger, upgrading your HVAC, or planning a kitchen remodel, the panel is where it starts. A 200A upgrade gives you the headroom to run everything your home needs — now and for the next 30 years. We handle the full scope: new panel, breakers, meter base, PG&E coordination, city permit, and final inspection.
If your home has a Federal Pacific or Zinsco panel, replacement isn't optional — it's urgent. These panels have well-documented failure rates where breakers don't trip during overloads, creating serious fire risk. Insurance companies increasingly flag them, and home inspectors will call them out every time. We replace them with modern, code-compliant panels and make sure everything is labeled, grounded, and inspected.
| Service | Price Range |
|---|---|
| 100A to 200A upgrade | $2,500 – $4,500 |
| Breaker replacement | $150 – $350 |
| Subpanel installation | $1,200 – $2,500 |
| Federal Pacific replacement | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| PG&E meter coordination | Included |
FAQ
If your panel is 100A or less, has Federal Pacific or Zinsco breakers, frequently trips, or you’re adding an EV charger or AC unit — it’s time to upgrade.
Most 100A to 200A upgrades are completed in one day. PG&E coordination can add 1–2 weeks to the timeline for the meter swap.
Yes, power is off for 4–6 hours during the swap. We’ll coordinate timing with you so it’s minimally disruptive.
Federal Pacific Stab-Lok breakers have a documented failure rate — they don’t trip when they should, creating fire risk. We strongly recommend immediate replacement.
If your panel is 100A, likely yes. A Level 2 EV charger needs a dedicated 40A or 50A circuit. We often bundle the panel upgrade with the charger install for a better price.
Whether it's a panel upgrade, new lighting, or a wiring project — give us a call or text. We'll get back to you the same day.
Call (510) 408-6305