Begin by Understanding the Basic Price Range

The first question we always get from clients needing a new system is “How Much?”  The answer is “It depends.”

Are you replacing like-for-like, increasing amperage, putting in three phase, etc.  Some of this is due to you, the buyer, wanting specific custom features that meet your unique needs.  Some of this is due to the unique design of your home where actually installing a new unit can range from simple to highly complex, depending on ease of access, permitting, local utility, etc.  Your system will be a one-of-a-kind installation.

Using an analogy of buying a car, all electrical contractors have a base price for a new system, much like a MSRP (manufacturer’s recommended retail price) sticker (since we do not sell used systems, a Kelley Blue Book sticker does not apply).  However, a car’s sticker price is for a fully manufactured vehicle, where all crucial decisions on its features have already been made.  The car comes 100% complete and you drive it off the lot.

There are three major types of electrical installations

Replacing Like for Like

• A basic 200-Amp like-for-like replacement starts at about $6,000 plus tax.
• Factors that can affect price: Condition of existing meter (it might have to be replaced if damaged or undersized), updated code requirements on panel location (closets no longer allowable), interior versus exterior wall, etc.

Increasing Amperage

• Older homes can have a small and undersized panel unsuitable for present-day needs. A 200-amp panel is now the basic standard.  A new service meter with disconnect and mast may be required, so there may be costs with your utility (PSE, Sno PUD)
• Prices start at $8,000 plus tax for a simple upgrade (plus direct utility charges).
• Factors that can affect price: See above plus changes in utility transformer size, new meter location.

Adding a Sub-Panel

• Many folks need a sub-panel for a shop, separate garage, or other outbuilding. Sometimes even for a large expansion of an existing home that needs more circuits.
• Prices start at $2,500 plus tax for a sub-panel within 25’ of the main panel.
• Factors that can affect price: Same as aforementioned panels plus trenching (if in a separate building), sub-panel size, routing issues between main and sub-panels.

Determining an Exact Price (with options of course)

An electrician will come to your home and begin by asking questions about your home and your needs.  This will be followed by a home investigation.  The electrician will review things like existing panel amperage, availability of new circuits, attic sand crawl space access, etc.  They will find out from you the full scope of work and detect problematic issues or challenges in advance to overcome.  They will discuss with you the different equipment options.

Remember that there are Factors beyond Price

The final factor is the one least appreciated by most buyers, yet most critical when it comes to peace of mind, it is the trustworthiness of the personnel to install the system ensuring that no shortcuts are taken, and the trustworthiness of company ownership that if there are issues post-install that there is a safety net to protect your investment.  It is worth noting that, unlike buying a new car where the manufacturer will ensure warranty even if the dealer does not, no electrical equipment manufacturer (or even wholesaler) will protect the new unit end user.  100% of that responsibility is in the trustworthiness of the installing contractor; if they are dishonorable, sell out to a new buyer, or go out of business, your investment is in jeopardy.

Setting a Budget is Key to this Process

Our advice is to establish a budget that is comfortable for you.  The above price ranges should be a help in this.  Then shop websites, get referrals from friends, and check company reviews.  Interview a few companies, first over the phone and then with an electrician coming to your home.

We wish you the best with your new panel planning.  We also have information on what to expect with the sales and installation process once you are ready to take the next steps.  Please feel free to reach out, our Customer Service Representatives are more than willing to answer your questions.