Electrical Panel Upgrades in DeSoto County
By the RW Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electrical Team · Reviewed by our licensed electricians · Serving DeSoto County since 1999
Spring is when home projects start stacking up: additions, EV chargers, hot tubs, and new HVAC systems. All of them depend on one thing working correctly behind the scenes: your electrical panel. If it is outdated or already maxed out, it becomes the bottleneck for everything else.
When 100 amps is not enough
Many DeSoto County homes built before the 1990s were wired for 100 amps or less. That was fine decades ago, but modern electrical loads push those systems hard. Watch for these warning signs:
- Breakers that trip when multiple appliances run at once.
- A panel that still uses fuses instead of breakers.
- Lights that dim when the AC or large appliances kick on.
- A warm panel cover, scorch marks, or burning smells.
What a panel upgrade involves
A standard upgrade replaces your existing service with a 200-amp panel, installed to meet National Electrical Code requirements and completed with permits and inspection. This is not a DIY project and should always be handled by a licensed professional.
Our electrical team handles permitting, utility coordination, and inspection so the entire process is safe, compliant, and properly signed off.
Common spring triggers
The most common reason homeowners need a panel upgrade is adding new electrical load. EV chargers are one of the fastest-growing demands. The DOE notes that most EV charging happens at home on a 240-volt circuit.
DOE Alternative Fuels Data Center, Charging at Home
Other common triggers include:
- Home additions or remodels
- New HVAC system installations
- Hot tubs or large appliances
Addressing the panel first ensures everything else runs safely and without delays.
Common questions
How do I know if I need a 200-amp panel?
If you are adding major appliances, an EV charger, a home addition, or experiencing frequent breaker trips, it is worth a professional evaluation.
Do I need a permit for a panel upgrade?
Yes. Panel upgrades require permits and inspections and must meet current electrical code requirements. A licensed electrician handles this process.
How long does it take?
Most panel upgrades are completed in a single day, including utility coordination and inspection scheduling.
The bottom line
If you are planning home improvements this spring, start with the electrical panel so everything else runs safely and efficiently.
Call 662-429-2590 or book an electrical estimate.
Protect your investment with the RW Comfort Club
The Comfort Club electrical plan helps prevent panel issues before they become failures. Each year, we thermal-scope breakers and connections, tighten terminations, and test GFCI, AFCI, and surge protection systems.
- 10% off any HVAC, plumbing, or electrical repair.
- Priority scheduling during peak demand.
- $50 off a new electrical panel for every consecutive year enrolled.
About RW Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electrical
We are a family-owned company serving DeSoto County since 1999. We are a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer, our technicians are NATE-certified, and we have maintained an A+ BBB rating since opening.
Read reviews on our reviews page or learn more on our About Us page.
Sources: Electrical Safety Foundation International; DOE Alternative Fuels Data Center.
