Solar panels are a smart investment for cutting energy bills and reducing your carbon footprint. But before installation, there’s an important step many homeowners overlook: ensuring your home’s electrical infrastructure is up to the task. In many cases, installing solar requires electrical panel service in Los Angeles, CA, to handle the increased load and ensure code compliance. Without the right panel setup, your solar energy system may underperform or not function at all.
1. Why Solar Systems Increase Electrical Load
Solar panels generate electricity that flows into your home’s electrical system. To manage this, your panel must be able to handle the additional current from the solar inverter. If your current panel is undersized or outdated, it may not support the new power flow. This mismatch can lead to tripped breakers, system failure, or even fire hazards. Upgrading your panel ensures your home and your solar investment work in harmony.
2. Most Homes Have Outdated Panels
Many older homes in Los Angeles still run on 100-amp panels, which were standard decades ago but aren’t ideal for today’s energy demands. Solar systems often require at least a 200-amp panel to function safely and effectively. If your home still has an old fuse box, you might even need a full electrical fuse box replacement in Los Angeles, CA, before solar installation is even possible. Evaluating your existing panel is a must-do step before going green.
3. Permitting and Code Compliance Require It
Los Angeles has strict electrical codes and permitting requirements, especially when it comes to adding solar systems. If your panel doesn’t meet current building codes, your solar permit application can be denied. In most cases, a licensed electrician must inspect and certify your panel’s capacity and safety features. Upgrading your panel not only ensures compliance but also helps avoid delays in installation and inspection.
4. It Affects System Performance and Efficiency
Even if your older panel technically supports a solar hookup, it might not operate efficiently. Poor connections, old wiring, and limited breaker space can all affect how energy is distributed and stored. A modernized panel can accommodate smart meters, battery backup systems, and future upgrades like EV chargers. Investing in a panel service now can future-proof your home and allow you to expand your clean energy system later.
5. Professional Evaluation Saves Time and Money
Guesswork can lead to costly do-overs. Before you move forward with a solar installer, have a certified electrician evaluate your current system. This can identify whether you need a full upgrade or just minor modifications. An early evaluation allows you to include any panel work in your solar budget from the start, avoiding unexpected expenses down the line. It also ensures that every part of your system is optimized for safe, long-term use.
Adding solar power to your home isn’t as simple as mounting panels on your roof. Your home’s electrical infrastructure plays a crucial role in determining system compatibility and safety. In many cases, upgrading the panel is a necessary first step for successful installation. From meeting modern electrical codes to maximizing efficiency, the right electrical panel service prepares your home for a seamless solar transition. Don’t wait until you’re mid-installation to find out your panel can’t keep up.
Dial 1-800-446-6453 to reach out to our experienced technicians at Mike Diamond Plumbing & HVAC. Upgrade your panel for solar success in Los Angeles, CA!
