Service · Cape Fear region
Electrical panel upgrades in Wilmington, NC
Hofer Electrical replaces and upgrades electrical panels, adds subpanels and installs disconnects for homes and businesses across New Hanover, Pender and Brunswick counties.
- Contractor
- Hofer Electrical LLC
- NC license
- U.35874
- Serving
- New Hanover, Pender and Brunswick counties
- Call
- 910 352 3649
A panel upgrade replaces your main electrical panel, and often the service feeding it, so the house can safely carry what you run today. If breakers trip often, the panel is full, or you are adding a large load, it is usually the first job to look at.
When a panel needs attention
- breakers that trip again after you reset them
- no open breaker spaces left
- rust, heat marks or a burning smell at the panel
- a smaller or older service feeding a home with modern loads
- plans for an EV charger, hot tub, generator or addition
What the work involves
We start with a load calculation, so the size of the new panel comes from what the house actually draws. From there we pull the permit, coordinate with your power company where the service is involved, install the panel, and meet the inspector on site. Every circuit is labeled at hand-over.
Subpanels and disconnects
A subpanel adds circuits where you need them, such as a garage, shop or addition, without moving the main panel. We also install electrical disconnects for equipment that needs a local shutoff.
On the coast
Salt air is hard on metal. Outdoor panels, meters and disconnects near the water can corrode sooner than the same gear inland, so we look at them closely on coastal jobs.
Where we do this work
Across New Hanover, Pender and Brunswick counties, including Wilmington, Castle Hayne, Hampstead, Leland, Carolina Beach. See the full service area.
More detail in our guide: 7 Signs Your Wilmington Home Needs an Electrical Panel Upgrade.
Quick answers
How do I know if I need a panel upgrade?
Common signs are breakers that trip often, a panel with no open spaces, a 100 amp or smaller service feeding a modern home, a warm or rusted panel, or a plan to add an EV charger, hot tub or heat pump.
Does a panel upgrade need a permit in North Carolina?
Yes, a panel or service upgrade generally needs an electrical permit and an inspection. Hofer Electrical pulls the permit and is there for the inspection.
What is the difference between a panel upgrade and a subpanel?
A panel upgrade replaces the main panel, and often the service, to add capacity. A subpanel adds breaker spaces in a new location, such as a garage or shop, and draws from the capacity the main panel already has.
Related services
Tell us about the job.
Hofer Electrical is licensed and insured in North Carolina. When you call, you talk to PJ, the owner.