Service upgrades and panel replacement services for Westport, MA
Ensure your property has the capacity, safety, and modern protection it needs. Thomas Gallant Jr Electrician Inc specializes in upgrading electrical services, installing new service panels, adding subpanels, and implementing AFCI/GFCI and surge protection systems to meet contemporary power needs.
Why service upgrades matter
Homes and businesses built decades ago often have electrical services sized for past demands. Modern appliances, HVAC systems, EV chargers, and contemporary electronics require greater power capacity. An undersized service leads to frequent breaker trips, potential overheating, and increased fire risk. Service upgrades increase capacity, improve safety, and ensure your electrical system supports current and future needs.
Key benefits of upgrading your service
Increased capacity
Support for larger loads, whole-house needs, EV charging, or new HVAC systems.
Safety improvements
Replace worn panels and install AFCI and GFCI protection to reduce shock and fire risks.
Reduced nuisance trips
Properly sized circuits minimize interruptions and protect circuits from overload.
Compatibility with modern devices
Proper grounding, surge protection, and correct breaker types protect electronics.
Permit-ready documentation
Upgrades performed with permit coordination and inspection-ready work for insurance and resale benefits.
What a service upgrade includes
Load assessment & consultation
We start with a thorough load calculation to determine required service size (100A, 200A, 400A as necessary). This assessment considers current and anticipated load, multimedia systems, EV chargers, and HVAC equipment.
Panel replacement & relocation (if needed)
We replace aging panels with modern equipment, properly label all circuits, and relocate panels when required for convenience or code compliance. Upgrades may include newer main breakers, space for additional circuits, and integrated surge protection.
Subpanel installation
When additions or separate loads require distribution, we install subpanels to keep circuits organized and avoid overloading a single panel.
AFCI & GFCI installations
We install Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCI) and Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) where required by code to protect against arc faults and ground faults.
Meter & service conductor upgrades
If service conductors, meter sockets, or outside equipment are outdated, we coordinate with utilities and upgrade service lines to meet capacity needs.
Coordination with utility providers & permits
We manage permit applications and coordinate with utilities for service disconnects, meter changes, and inspections to ensure a smooth upgrade.
Surge protection & grounding improvements
Whole-home surge protection at the service panel, along with updated grounding and bonding, improves protection of sensitive electronics and appliances.
Process timeline and expectations
Site inspection & load calculation
We evaluate current service and recommend the correct upgrade.
Written estimate & permit filing
Clear proposal with timeline and permitting handled by our team.
Utility coordination & scheduled outage
We arrange with the utility for required service disconnection and coordinate timing to minimize outage.
Installation & testing
Panel and service conductors are installed, grounded, and tested before the utility reconnects service.
Final inspection & documentation
We complete final testing and provide paperwork for your records and inspections.
Why professional installation matters
Upgrades involve coordination with utility services, correct sizing of conductors and breakers, and strict adherence to code. Amateur upgrades pose hazards and can lead to failed inspections or insurance complications. Our licensed team handles all technical, safety, and permitting aspects to ensure a reliable service upgrade that meets code and performance needs.
Typical upgrade scenarios we handle
100A to 200A service upgrade for modern homes with increased appliance and HVAC loads.
Panel replacement from obsolete panels to modern breakers and integrated surge protection.
Adding subpanels for remodeled kitchens, garage workshops, or accessory dwelling units.
Service conductor replacement and meter base upgrades to facilitate increased capacity.
Safety & code compliance
All upgrades follow NEC and Massachusetts code requirements. We ensure proper conductor sizing, breaker coordination, grounding, and use of rated equipment. We include AFCI and GFCI protection where code requires, and provide documentation for inspectors and insurance needs.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a service upgrade take?
Typical upgrades are completed within one day to several days depending on complexity and utility scheduling. We provide a timeline during the estimate.
Will the power be off during the upgrade?
Yes. We coordinate with the utility for a scheduled outage to safely change meters and service conductors. We minimize outage duration and schedule times convenient for you.
How much does a service upgrade cost?
Costs vary based on amperage, panel type, meter work, and required conduit or wiring. We provide transparent written estimates after assessment.
Contact & next steps
If your home or business is ready for modern electrical capacity, call Thomas Gallant Jr Electrician Inc at +1 (508) 496-3319 to schedule a service assessment. We provide clear recommendations, handle permitting, and deliver code-compliant service upgrades for long-term reliability.