Call the Dragons 518-527-8077
Panel Upgrade & Replacement Services
200-Amp Service Upgrade
The most common upgrade we perform — replacing an older 100-amp or 60-amp service with a modern 200-amp panel that can handle today's electrical loads. This is often required before installing an EV charger or home standby generator.
Full Panel Replacement
We remove old, outdated, or damaged breaker panels and replace them with new, code-compliant equipment. We use trusted brands including Square D and Cutler Hammer — built to last and readily serviceable.
Fuse Box Replacement
If your home still has a fuse box, it's well past time for an upgrade. Fuse boxes can't be safely modified or expanded, and older glass fuses are a fire risk. We replace fuse boxes with modern breaker panels.
Subpanel Installation
Need power in a detached garage, workshop, or addition? We install subpanels to extend your electrical system safely without overloading your main service.
Federal Pacific & Zinsco Panel ReplacementFederal Pacific Stab-Lok and Zinsco panels have well-documented safety records and are considered fire hazards by electricians and insurance companies alike. If you have either, we strongly recommend replacement — and we can help.Our Panel Upgrade Process
- Free on-site estimate — We assess your current service, discuss your needs, and give you a firm quote
- Permit application — Steve pulls all required permits from the local municipality
- Utility coordination — We coordinate with National Grid or your utility for service disconnect
- Installation — We remove the old panel, install the new equipment, and reconnect all circuits
- Inspection — Steve meets the inspector on site and resolves any punch-list items
- Final walkthrough — We walk you through your new panel before we leave
Why Homeowners Trust Dragons Electric for Panel Work
- Licensed & fully insured — $1,000,000 in liability coverage beyond minimum requirements
- Owner-operated since 2011 — Steve personally handles every panel job
- We use quality equipment — Square D and Cutler Hammer panels only
- Full permit service — we handle all permitting and inspections
- 5-star rated on Google — Over 30 verified reviews
- Transparent pricing — firm quotes before any work begins
What Our Customers Say
Dragons Electric is very professional and knowledgeable. Highly recommend!"— Tanvir Khan, Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"We have used Dragons Electric several times over the years. Always great service."— Karen LaF, Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Great job overall. Priced as quoted, friendly, knowledgeable. Will use again."— StephanieLea137, Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an electrical panel upgrade cost in Schenectady?
The cost depends on your current service size, the new panel capacity, and any additional wiring required. We provide free on-site estimates so you get an accurate number for your specific home — contact us to schedule one.
Do I need a permit for a panel upgrade?
Yes — always. A permit and inspection are required for any panel replacement or service upgrade in New York. We handle the entire process; you don't have to do anything.
How long does a panel upgrade take?
Most panel replacements are completed in a single day. Your power will be off for part of the day while we work, but we coordinate with you in advance so you can plan accordingly.
Will my power be off during the upgrade?
Yes, for a portion of the day. We coordinate the utility disconnect in advance and work as efficiently as possible to minimize downtime.
Do I need a panel upgrade before installing an EV charger or generator?
Sometimes. During your free estimate for an EV charger or Generac generator , we'll evaluate your current panel and let you know if an upgrade is needed before installation.
What brands of panels do you install?
We install Square D and Cutler Hammer panels — both are industry-standard, widely available, and built for long-term reliability.
My panel looks fine — do I still need an upgrade?Not necessarily. Some panels look fine from the outside but have known internal defects (like Federal Pacific). If you're unsure, we're happy to take a look. We'll give you an honest assessment — we don't sell work that isn't needed.
Serving the Entire Capital District
Schenectady • Albany • Troy • Rotterdam • Niskayuna • Cohoes • Watervliet • Colonie • Guilderland • Clifton Park • Latham • and surrounding areas