Answer: 6-8 hours Explanation: A 100-amp to 200-amp panel upgrade typically falls in the 6–8 hour range, even when you’re reusing the existing branch-circuit wiring. The added time comes from the utility requirements—especially in Sacramento, where SMUD or PG&E must send a service designer to confirm that the transformer and service area can support the increased load before the upgrade is approved.
Why it takes 6–8 hours
Utility design approval: SMUD or PG&E must verify that the transformer, service drop, and neighborhood capacity can handle the jump from 100A to 200A. This step happens before installation and can add days or weeks to the timeline, but the on-site work still reflects this requirement.
Full panel removal and installation: Disconnecting the old panel, mounting the new 200A panel, and transferring all circuits safely and cleanly.
Grounding and bonding upgrades: Most 100A homes need updated grounding electrodes, bonding jumpers, or service-entrance upgrades to meet current California Electrical Code.
Utility shutdown and reconnection: Coordinating with SMUD or PG&E for a same-day disconnect/reconnect window.
Inspection and compliance steps: Ensuring the installation meets CEC requirements and passes the city or county inspection.
Summary
Even with existing wiring reused, a 100A ? 200A upgrade is a full-day project once the utility designer has approved the load capacity. The physical work is typically completed in 6–8 hours, assuming no structural issues, mast repairs, or unexpected code corrections. |
| EcoWise Electric LLC |
Answer: 6-8 hours Explanation: Too many factors to accurately say, but typically it will be a full work day. |
| G & H Electrical Services, LLC |
Answer: 4-6 hours Explanation: The actual installation takes about 4 to 6 hours, but the process may be different depending on the city and utility provider |
| Kingdom Electric Company |
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| ProMatcher |
Answer: 2-4 hours Explanation: Depending on the panel it takes anyou were from quarter 26 hours |
| Alltypes electric llc |
Answer: 6-8 hours Explanation: Installing a new service and electrical panel usually takes about a day. |
| Ross Electric Company |
Answer: 4-6 hours Explanation: This is something that doesn't need to be rushed. A panel change-out requires that the wiring in the existing panel be handled carefully so that it is not damaged. you would also want to mark all of the wires to identify where they go and to make sure that they are reinstalled on the correct size breaker. |
| Electrical Services Plus LLC |
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| ProMatcher |
Answer: 6-8 hours Explanation: There are many variables around this but typically can be completed in one day. |
| ElectriTech, Inc. |
Answer: Not sure Explanation: Depends on what needs to be done. |
| Aegis Electric LLC |
Answer: 6-8 hours Explanation: really just depends on the amount of circuits needed to relocate into new panel |
| Electrical Services Inc. |
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| ProMatcher |
Answer: Over 8 hours Explanation: You can not use 100 amp wiring on a 200 amp service what do you want to do burn the place down. More information is required is it over head or under ground grid connected |
| D B Electric |
Answer: 2-4 hours Explanation: This requires communication with the power company, inspection department, and electrical contractor working together to ensure the power upgrade is done within code requirements and safety regulations. |
| Seabreeze Electric |
Answer: 4-6 hours Explanation: 4 to 6 hours if we need to replace it in the same location |
| Gacem Electric |
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| ProMatcher |
Answer: 4-6 hours Explanation: I always tell people. Their ice won't melt in the freezer. Lol |
| Advanced Electrical and Energy |
Answer: 6-8 hours Explanation: A service upgrade is an all day job requiring 1 man inside and 1 man outside plus co-ordinating with the power company |
| Jove Electric |
Answer: 6-8 hours Explanation: It depends on how many circuits were added through the years, inspections, and the power utility company.(usually 6-8 hours, but that can vary depending on the particular situation) |
| LED Electrical Services |
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| ProMatcher |