electrical-panel-upgrade

Choosing the Right Electrical Panel for Your Golden, CO Home

When you plan to upgrade your electrical panel at home in Golden, Colorado, you invest in safety and efficiency. This also adds long-term value to your property. But many homeowners wonder: How do you pick the right electrical panel for your needs?

We are here to help you understand your options. We will explain the signs that you may need a new panel. Trusting a professional team like Mac-Vik is the best way to handle your upgrade.

What Does an Electrical Panel Do?

An electrical panel—also called a breaker box or load center—is like the traffic controller of your home’s power. It takes the electricity from the utility company and safely distributes it to all the circuits around your house.

If your panel is old, overloaded, or broken, it can cause flickering lights, tripped breakers, or even fires. That’s why picking the right panel for an electrical upgrade is crucial, especially for older homes in Golden.

Signs You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade

Not sure if it’s time for a new panel? Keep an eye out for these common warning signs:

  • Frequent breaker trips under normal use
  • Flickering or dimming lights, especially when using appliances
  • Warm panel covers or burning smells near the box
  • Limited breaker space for new circuits
  • Older fuse box rather than modern breakers
  • New large appliances or home renovations planned

If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to think about an upgrade for both safety and convenience.

Why Upgrading Your Electrical Panel Matters

Many older homes in Golden, CO have electrical panels made for fewer devices than modern homes use today. Think about how much technology has changed:

  • EV chargers
  • Hot tubs and home spas
  • High-efficiency HVAC systems
  • Home offices with computers and equipment
  • Smart home devices

An outdated panel simply can’t keep up safely. Upgrading ensures:

  • Safety – Reduce fire and shock risks.
  • More Power – Handle modern electrical demands.
  • Home Value – Add value for future buyers.
  • Code Compliance – Meet local safety requirements.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a New Panel

When choosing the right panel for your electrical panel upgrade, consider these critical details:

1. Electrical Load Requirements

Your panel must be sized to handle your home’s electrical usage. Many older homes have 100-amp panels, but newer homes—and homes with more appliances—often need at least 200 amps.

At Mac-Vik, our electricians perform a load calculation to determine the perfect size for your household.

2. Room for Future Growth

Even if your current usage is modest, think ahead. Planning a remodel? Adding a workshop or EV charger? 

Installing central air? Choose a panel with extra capacity to avoid costly upgrades later.

3. Panel Type

Different types of panels suit different needs:

  • Main breaker panels shut off power to your entire house in one switch.
  • Main lug panels work as subpanels for additional circuits.
  • Subpanels expand your system without replacing your main panel.
  • Smart panels let you track energy use from your phone.

4. Brand and Quality

Investing in a quality brand saves headaches later. Cheap panels may be tempting, but they can be prone to faults, poor availability of parts, and potential safety hazards.

5. Space and Location

In Golden’s older homes, the panel’s location and wall space can affect which type of panel works best. It also determines the locations where it can be installed to meet code clearance rules.

6. Safety Features

Newer panels often have extra protection. They include arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). These features greatly lower the risks of fire and shock.

Colorado Code and Permit Requirements

Electrical panel upgrades in Colorado, including Golden, must follow the latest National Electrical Code (NEC) standards. While homeowners aren’t automatically required to replace older panels, upgrades become mandatory if you:

  • Install new large appliances
  • Add a significant electrical load
  • Renovate or expand your home
  • Have unsafe or outdated equipment

Permits are always required for a panel upgrade. Mac-Vik’s licensed electricians handle the entire process for you, including pulling permits, calculating loads, and passing inspections. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your project meets all legal and safety requirements.

Types of Electrical Panels

Here’s a quick look at some options for your electrical panel upgrade:

  • Main Breaker Panels – Convenient all-in-one shutoff for your home’s power.
  • Main Lug Panels – Used for subpanels, connecting to the main panel.
  • Subpanels – Great for adding circuits in garages, workshops, or additions.
  • Smart Panels – Monitor usage and track savings via apps on your smartphone.

Not sure which one is right? That’s what we’re here for.

Why Trust Mac-Vik for Electrical Panel Upgrades?

Upgrading your electrical panel is not a do-it-yourself project. It is a key safety and legal requirement. You need licensed professionals for this job. Here’s why Golden homeowners choose Mac-Vik:

  • Award-Winning Reputation – We’re proud winners of the BBB Torch Award for Ethics and the FAVES Winner award.
  • Decades of Experience – Since 1962, we’ve served thousands of Colorado families.
  • NATE-Certified Electricians – Our team knows the latest codes and technologies.
  • 5-Star Service – Customers rave about our professionalism and results.
  • No Hidden Fees – We’re honest and upfront about costs.
  •  12-Month Labor Warranty – We support our work long after we complete the job.
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Special Offer:

Mac-Vik is now offering $1,000 off an electrical panel upgrade. This is a great time to upgrade your home safely and affordably.

Peace of Mind for Your Home’s Future

A modern electrical panel does more than keep your lights on. It keeps your family safe, your home efficient, and your plans secure. If you’re considering an electrical panel upgrade, trust Mac-Vik to get it done right.

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Contact us today for a free estimate and take advantage of $1,000 in savings.