Electrical Panel Cost Calculator

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electrical panel cost calculator
100 Amp Panel (Standard Small Home)150 Amp Panel (Average Home)200 Amp Panel (Modern Standard)400 Amp Panel (Large Home/Heavy Load)
Estimated Total Project Cost:
$ 0.00
function calculateResult(){var basePrice = parseFloat(document.getElementById('panel_amp').value);var circuits = parseFloat(document.getElementById('input1').value) || 0;var rate = parseFloat(document.getElementById('input2').value) || 0;var hours = parseFloat(document.getElementById('input3').value) || 0;var misc = parseFloat(document.getElementById('input4').value) || 0;var showSteps = document.getElementById('steps').checked;if(isNaN(circuits)||isNaN(rate)||isNaN(hours)||isNaN(misc)){alert('Please fill in all fields with valid numbers');return;}var breakerCost = circuits * 25;var laborTotal = rate * hours;var total = basePrice + breakerCost + laborTotal + misc;document.getElementById('resultValue').innerHTML = total.toLocaleString(undefined, {minimumFractionDigits: 2, maximumFractionDigits: 2});var breakdownDiv = document.getElementById('breakdown');if(showSteps){breakdownDiv.style.display = 'block';breakdownDiv.innerHTML = 'Cost Breakdown:
Panel Base: $' + basePrice.toFixed(2) + '
Breakers (' + circuits + ' units): $' + breakerCost.toFixed(2) + '
Labor (' + hours + ' hrs @ $' + rate + '): $' + laborTotal.toFixed(2) + '
Permits/Materials: $' + misc.toFixed(2);}else{breakdownDiv.style.display = 'none';}}

Using the Electrical Panel Cost Calculator

Whether you are upgrading an old service or installing power for a new home, the electrical panel cost calculator helps you estimate the total investment required for a professional installation. Modern homes increasingly demand higher amperage to support electric vehicles, HVAC systems, and high-end appliances.

To get an accurate estimate, you will need to input specific details about your project:

Target Panel Capacity
Choose between 100-amp (suitable for small cabins or gas-heated homes) to 400-amp (for large luxury estates with multiple EVs).
Number of New Circuits
Each circuit requires an individual breaker. This calculator estimates approximately $25 per breaker including installation hardware.
Electrician Hourly Rate
Licensed electricians typically charge between $50 and $150 per hour depending on your local market and experience level.

How the Cost is Calculated

Upgrading a service panel involves three main cost categories: hardware, labor, and regulatory fees. The electrical panel cost calculator uses a standardized formula to combine these variables:

Total Cost = Base Panel Hardware + (Number of Breakers × $25) + (Labor Rate × Hours) + Permits/Misc

  • Base Panel Hardware: Includes the enclosure and the main bus bar. Prices scale with amperage.
  • Breaker Costs: Standard AFCI/GFCI breakers required by modern code are significantly more expensive than older styles.
  • Labor: A standard swap takes 6-10 hours, while a full service relocation can take 20+ hours.
  • Permits: Most municipalities require a permit and inspection for service changes, often costing between $50 and $300.

Real-World Calculation Example

Scenario: Upgrading a 1970s home from a 100-amp "fuse box" to a modern 200-amp breaker panel in a mid-sized city.

Step-by-step solution:

  1. Panel Capacity: 200 Amp ($600 base cost)
  2. Circuits: 20 standard circuits (20 × $25 = $500)
  3. Labor: 8 hours at $90 per hour ($720)
  4. Permits/Misc: $200 for local city permit
  5. Calculation: $600 + $500 + $720 + $200
  6. Total Estimated Cost: $2,020.00

Common Questions

When should I upgrade to a 200-amp panel?

You should consider an upgrade if you are adding high-draw appliances like a hot tub, electric car charger, or central air conditioning. If your current breakers trip frequently or the panel feels warm to the touch, an upgrade is a safety necessity.

Do I need a permit for a panel swap?

In almost every jurisdiction, yes. Electrical panels are the heart of your home's fire safety system. A permit ensures that a city inspector verifies the work meets the National Electrical Code (NEC).

Can I install an electrical panel myself?

While homeowners are legally allowed to do their own work in some areas, it is highly discouraged for main service panels. The incoming lines from the utility company are "always live" and cannot be turned off by a simple switch, posing a fatal electrocution risk.

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