A panel upgrade is one of the most common jobs we do in San Antonio, and one of the most misquoted. Some outfits throw out a low number to get in the door, then pad the invoice. Others quote high and hope. Here is what actually moves the price, so you can read a quote like a pro.
What you are really paying for
A 100 amp to 200 amp upgrade is not just swapping a box. It is a new panel, often a new meter can, new breakers, new grounding and bonding, a utility disconnect and reconnect, a permit, and an inspection. The labor is a full day for a two-person crew, and the power is off for part of it.
The factors that change your number
- Panel and meter location. An easy exterior wall is cheaper than a cramped interior closet.
- Whether the meter can and mast also need replacing, not just the panel.
- The condition of your grounding and bonding, which older homes often lack.
- How many circuits have to be relabeled, retied, or corrected as we go.
- Whether you are adding surge protection or a sub-panel at the same time.
- Permit and utility coordination fees, which we handle for you.
Why flat-rate matters here
The danger with panel work is the open-ended invoice. We look at your panel, your meter, and your service first, then quote one flat number. You approve it before we start. If we open it up and find something ugly, we tell you and price it before we touch it. You never get a bigger bill than the one you agreed to.
When an upgrade pays for itself
If you have a Federal Pacific or Zinsco panel, the upgrade is a safety fix, not a luxury. Those breakers have a documented history of failing to trip. If you are adding an EV charger, electric heat, or a large addition, 200 amp service is usually the difference between it working and it tripping. And a clean, permitted panel is a selling point when you list the home.
Want a real number for your home? Call us, send a photo of your panel, and we will get you a flat quote with no pressure.