Let’s face it—modern life runs on electricity. Between streaming, remote work, EVs, and all the gadgets we use daily, your home’s electrical demand has probably skyrocketed in the last decade. But has your breaker box kept up?
If your home was built more than 20 years ago and you’ve added a few devices (or a few dozen), it might be time to ask, is my breaker panel still doing its job? At VPC Electric, we’ve helped hundreds of Spokane and Coeur d’Alene homeowners modernize their electrical systems, and we’re breaking down what you need to know.
What Does a Breaker Box Actually Do?
Your breaker box—also known as an electrical panel—is the command center for all the electricity flowing into your home. It distributes power to every outlet, switch, and light fixture. More importantly, it protects your home by “tripping” when circuits are overloaded.
When it works properly, you probably don’t notice it at all. When it doesn’t, that’s when the lights flicker, breakers trip constantly, and appliances act up—or worse.
Learn the risks of ignoring signs in our blog: 5 Warning Signs Your Circuit Breaker Needs to Be Replaced
Why Your Electrical Demands Have Changed
Think about everything in your home that plugs in today versus 10 or 20 years ago:
- Flat-screen TVs, streaming boxes, gaming consoles
- Computers, printers, modems, and smart speakers
- Microwaves, air fryers, espresso machines
- Smart lighting, thermostats, security cameras
- EV chargers and backup battery systems
- Now multiply that by every room in your house.
Modern lifestyles require more power, more consistency, and better protection. That means an old 100-amp panel may no longer be sufficient—or safe.
7 Signs Your Breaker Box Is Outdated
Here are common warning signs that your panel isn’t keeping up:
1. Frequent breaker trips
You’re not doing anything out of the ordinary, but the breaker keeps flipping—especially when you run the microwave or start the dryer.
2. Flickering or dimming lights
Lights should not dim when appliances turn on. This could indicate overloaded circuits.
3. Burning smell or warm panel
If your panel feels hot or smells like something’s burning, turn it off and call an electrician immediately.
4. Scorch marks or corrosion
Visual signs of wear or rust inside the panel box suggest it’s past its prime.
5. No room for new circuits
Upgrading your kitchen or adding a hot tub? If there’s no room in the panel, you’re stuck—or at risk of overloading.
6. It’s over 25 years old
Electrical panels are not meant to last forever. Older models may not comply with today’s codes or usage demands.
7. You’re installing an EV charger or solar
Major upgrades like these often require a 200-amp panel to support the load.
What Happens If You Don’t Upgrade?
Ignoring an outdated breaker box can lead to serious problems:
- Overloaded circuits that trip constantly or fail to trip at all
- Increased risk of electrical fires due to overheated wiring
- Damage to expensive electronics and appliances from inconsistent power
- Difficulty selling your home due to inspection red flags
At minimum, you’ll experience ongoing frustration. At worst, you could put your family and property at risk.
Related: How to Prep Your Home’s Electrical System for Summer Storms
What a Panel Upgrade Includes
Upgrading your breaker box is more than swapping out an old panel. It’s about reconfiguring your system for today—and tomorrow.
A typical upgrade includes:
- Replacing your main panel with a 200-amp model
- Installing new breakers to meet code and safety standards
- Rewiring circuits as needed for better load balancing
- Adding dedicated circuits for major appliances or EV chargers
- Ensuring all grounding and surge protection is up to code
If you’re not sure what panel size you need, VPC Electric will perform a full assessment and recommend the best setup.
How Long Does a Panel Upgrade Take?
Most panel upgrades are completed in one full day, depending on your home’s wiring and access. Our team coordinates all permits and inspections, so you’re never left in the dark.
You may experience a brief power outage while we transition the system, but we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.
What Does a Panel Upgrade Cost?
While costs vary based on home size and location, here’s a general idea:
- Basic panel upgrade: $1,800 – $2,500
- With added circuits or subpanels: $2,500 – $4,000+
It’s an investment, but one that protects every system in your home—plus your peace of mind.
Financing options are available, and our team provides clear, upfront pricing.
Why Choose VPC Electric for Your Panel Upgrade?
Spokane and North Idaho homeowners trust us because:
- We’re licensed, insured, and local
- We handle all permits and inspections
- We explain everything in clear, human language
- We clean up after ourselves and respect your home
- We offer transparent pricing with no surprise fees
When you’re ready to modernize your home’s power, we’re ready to help.
Visit our homepage to learn more about our full range of services. Contact us to schedule a panel inspection or upgrade consultation.
Let’s Power Up for the Future
From air fryers to electric vehicles, our lives are powered by more electricity than ever before. If your breaker box isn’t keeping up, don’t wait for a blackout—or worse.
A modern panel isn’t just a home upgrade—it’s a safety system, a value booster, and a foundation for future tech like EVs and solar.
Call VPC Electric today, and we’ll help you step into a safer, more connected future.