Your electrical panel is the heart of your home's electrical system. It receives power from the utility, divides it into circuits, and protects your home from overloads. When it's working right, you never think about it. When it's not, you notice — and so does your insurance company.

If you live in Burnet, Marble Falls, Lampasas, or anywhere in the Hill Country, here's what you need to know about electrical panels.

How Old Is Your Panel?

Most electrical panels are designed to last 25–40 years. If your home was built before 1990 and the panel has never been replaced, it's worth having a licensed electrician take a look. Older panels weren't designed for the electrical loads modern homes demand — multiple large appliances, EV chargers, home offices, and smart devices all add up.

Warning Signs Your Panel Needs Attention

Breakers that trip frequently. An occasional trip is normal. Breakers that trip repeatedly on the same circuit — especially under normal load — signal that the circuit is undersized or the breaker itself is failing.

Lights that flicker or dim when appliances run. This usually means circuits are overloaded or the panel can't deliver consistent voltage.

Burning smell near the panel. This is a serious warning sign. Turn off the main breaker and call an electrician immediately.

Rust, corrosion, or visible damage. Moisture intrusion in a panel is dangerous. If you see rust or corrosion, don't wait.

You're adding a major appliance or EV charger. A Level 2 EV charger typically requires a dedicated 50-amp circuit. If your panel is already near capacity, you'll need an upgrade before installation.

Your panel is a recalled brand. Federal Pacific Electric (Stab-Lok) and Zinsco panels have well-documented safety issues and are no longer considered acceptable by most insurance carriers. If you have one, replacement isn't optional — it's urgent.

What Does a Panel Upgrade Involve?

A typical panel upgrade involves:

1. Pulling the required permit from Burnet County or the City of Burnet
2. Coordinating with Pedernales Electric Cooperative or your utility for a temporary disconnect
3. Installing the new panel and transferring all circuits
4. Inspection by the local authority having jurisdiction
5. Utility reconnect

The whole process usually takes one day. We handle the permit and utility coordination — you don't have to make those calls.

How Much Does a Panel Upgrade Cost in Central Texas?

A standard 200-amp panel upgrade in the Burnet area typically runs $1,500–$3,000 depending on the age of the existing wiring, the distance from the meter, and whether any circuit work is needed at the same time. We provide written quotes before any work begins.

100-Amp vs. 200-Amp: What Do You Need?

Most homes built before 1980 have 100-amp service. That was adequate for the time, but today's homes — especially those with electric HVAC, an EV charger, or a hot tub — benefit from 200-amp service. If you're planning any major additions or upgrades, go to 200 amps now rather than paying for two upgrades.

Permits and Inspections: Why They Matter

Electrical work in Texas requires a licensed electrician and a permit for panel replacements. We're licensed under TECL 35476 and pull permits on every job that requires one. Unpermitted electrical work can void your homeowner's insurance and create problems when you sell.

Serving Burnet and Surrounding Communities

We serve Burnet, Marble Falls, Lampasas, Llano, San Saba, and 15 other communities across Central Texas. If you're not sure whether your panel needs attention, we're happy to take a look and give you an honest assessment.

Call or text 512-556-6818 to schedule a panel inspection or get a quote.