Q: How long does a panel upgrade take in Fairfax County?

A typical panel upgrade in Fairfax County takes 1-2 full days of work plus permit processing time. Timeline breakdown: Permit application and approval: 3-7 business days, Electrical work: 6-10 hours (usually completed in 1-2 days), Final inspection: 1-2 business days after completion. Total project timeline: 1-2 weeks from permit application to final approval. Emergency upgrades for safety issues can be expedited.

Question 1

How much does an electrical panel upgrade cost in Northern Virginia?

Accepted Answer

Electrical panel upgrade costs in Northern Virginia typically range from $1,800 to $4,500+ depending on several key factors:

Cost Breakdown:

100A Panel: $1,800 - $2,800
150A Panel: $2,200 - $3,500
200A Panel: $2,500 - $4,500+
Permits (Fairfax County): $75 - $150
Labor: $150 - $200 per hour

Additional factors affecting cost:

Accessibility of existing panel location
Need for service line upgrade from utility
Code updates requiring additional work
Grounding system improvements
AFCI/GFCI breaker requirements

A standard 200-amp panel replacement in good conditions averages $2,200-$3,200 including permits and inspection in Fairfax County.

Question 2

How long does a panel upgrade take in Fairfax County?

Accepted Answer

A typical panel upgrade in Fairfax County takes 1-2 full days of work plus permit processing time.

Complete Timeline Breakdown:

1 Permit Application: 3-7 business days

2 Electrical Work: 6-10 hours (1-2 days)

3 Final Inspection: 1-2 business days

✓ Total Timeline: 1-2 weeks from start to completion

Emergency upgrades for safety issues can be expedited with emergency permits when necessary.

Question 3

Do I need a permit for panel upgrade in Virginia?

Accepted Answer

Yes, electrical panel upgrades require permits in all Virginia jurisdictions. Permit requirements by area: Fairfax County: Electrical permit required ($75-$150), inspection mandatory. Arlington County: Electrical permit and trade license verification required. City of Alexandria: Electrical permit plus contractor registration needed. Falls Church: Building permit with electrical component required. Vienna: Electrical permit through Fairfax County. All work must be performed by licensed electricians and pass inspection before approval.

Question 4

What are signs I need a panel upgrade in my Northern Virginia home?

Accepted Answer

Key warning signs for Northern Virginia homes include: Frequent circuit breaker trips (especially in older neighborhoods like Old Town Alexandria, McLean historic district), Flickering lights when AC or heat pump starts (common in 1970s-80s Fairfax County homes), Using extension cords regularly due to insufficient outlets, Fuse box instead of circuit breakers (many Arlington homes built before 1960), Warm electrical panels or burning odors, Adding EV charger or major appliances to existing 100-amp service, Panels from Federal Pacific Electric, Zinsco, or Challenger brands (safety recalls), Home over 25 years old with original panel (especially in established neighborhoods).

Question 5

Can I upgrade from 100 amp to 200 amp service myself?

Accepted Answer

No, electrical panel upgrades must be performed by licensed Master Electricians in Virginia, Maryland, and DC. Virginia Code requirements: Licensed contractor must pull permits, All work must meet current NEC and local codes, Professional inspection required before utility reconnection, Insurance and liability coverage mandatory. DIY panel work is illegal, dangerous, and voids home insurance. Utility companies (Dominion Energy, Pepco) will not reconnect service without proper permits and professional installation. Attempting DIY panel work can result in fines, failed home inspections, and serious safety hazards.

Question 6

Will I lose power during a panel upgrade?

Accepted Answer

Yes, power will be disconnected during the panel replacement process. Power outage details: Duration: 6-10 hours typically (full work day), Utility coordination: We schedule disconnection/reconnection with Dominion Energy or Pepco, Preparation recommended: Charge devices, plan meals, secure perishable items, notify home security systems, consider temporary accommodations for medical equipment. We minimize outage time by pre-installing components and coordinating efficiently with utility companies. Most customers find one day without power manageable with proper preparation.

Question 7

What electrical codes apply to panel upgrades in Fairfax County?

Accepted Answer

Fairfax County follows Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) based on 2018 National Electrical Code with local amendments. Key requirements: AFCI protection required in all bedrooms and living areas, GFCI protection for bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoor circuits, Surge protection device (SPD) required for new 200A+ services, Grounding electrode system must meet current standards, Working space clearances: 3 feet in front, 30 inches wide, 6.5 feet high minimum, Panel height: 6 feet maximum from floor to top breaker. Fairfax County-specific amendments may apply - we ensure full code compliance with every installation.

Question 8

Should I upgrade to 200 amp service when installing an EV charger?

Accepted Answer

EV charger installations often require panel upgrades in Northern Virginia homes. Load calculation considerations: Level 2 EV chargers typically draw 30-50 amps continuous, Existing 100-amp panels often lack capacity for EV charging plus normal household loads, 200-amp service provides adequate capacity for EV charging, electric appliances, and future needs, Load calculation must include HVAC systems (common in Virginia climate), electric water heaters, and other major appliances. We perform comprehensive load analysis to determine if your existing panel can safely support EV charging. Most homes benefit from 200-amp upgrade when installing EV chargers.

Question 9

What's included in your panel upgrade warranty?

Accepted Answer

AJ Long Electric provides a comprehensive 5-year warranty on all panel upgrade work covering: Labor warranty: 5 years on all electrical installation work, Parts warranty: 5 years on breakers, panels, and electrical components we install, Manufacturer warranties: Pass-through of full manufacturer warranties on equipment, Transferable warranty: Coverage transfers to new homeowners if property is sold, Code compliance guarantee: We ensure all work meets current electrical codes, Free service calls: No charge for warranty-related visits within coverage period. Our warranty demonstrates confidence in our workmanship and provides peace of mind for this critical electrical investment.

Question 10

Do panel upgrades increase home value in Northern Virginia?

Accepted Answer

Yes, electrical panel upgrades typically increase home value and marketability in Northern Virginia's competitive real estate market. Value considerations: Home inspections: Modern panels pass inspection without electrical concerns, Insurance benefits: Some insurers offer discounts for updated electrical systems, Market appeal: Buyers prefer homes with modern 200-amp service, Future-proofing: Supports EV chargers, solar panels, and smart home technology, Appraisal impact: Electrical upgrades contribute to overall home improvement value, Safety factor: Eliminates concerns about outdated electrical systems. Real estate agents in Fairfax, Arlington, and Alexandria consistently report that updated electrical systems make homes more attractive to buyers and can support higher sale prices.

Panel Upgrade FAQ

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Costs & Pricing

How much does an electrical panel upgrade cost in Northern Virginia?

Cost Breakdown:

Timeline & Process

How long does a panel upgrade take in Fairfax County?

Complete Timeline Breakdown:

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