⚡ Electrical

Panel Upgrades — Do You Need One?

Most Spokane homes built before 1990 run on 100-amp service. EV chargers, heat pumps, and modern loads push that to its limit. Here is what an upgrade involves and what it costs.

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What's Covered

  • ✓ Move from 100A to 200A service
  • ✓ Utility coordination with Avista or Idaho Power
  • ✓ Permit pulled + city/county inspection
  • ✓ Grounds, bonding, and breakers to current NEC code
  • ✓ Required for EV chargers, heat pumps, and major additions

Typical Costs in Spokane

100A → 200A upgrade$1,800 – $3,500
Meter base upgrade (if required)+$300 – $600
200A → 400A (large home/ADU)$4,000 – $7,000
Permit and inspectionIncluded

Common Questions

How long does a panel upgrade take?
Most installs take 4–8 hours. Utility coordination with Avista or Idaho Power to disconnect the meter adds 1–3 business days of scheduling.
Do I need a permit in Spokane?
Yes — panel upgrades require an electrical permit in Spokane, Spokane Valley, CDA, and Post Falls. Your contractor handles it.
Are Federal Pacific panels dangerous?
Yes. Stab-Lok breakers are documented to fail to trip, creating fire risk. Home insurers sometimes refuse to cover homes with them. Replacement is strongly recommended.

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