Have the electrician and utility establish the required capacity and equipment scope before comparing installation prices.
Panel replacement is not the same thing
A panel replacement can retain the existing service rating. A service upgrade may involve the meter equipment, service conductors, disconnect and distribution equipment. A larger number on a new panel does not, by itself, increase the utility supply.
Ask the proposal to state both the existing and proposed service rating and identify which equipment changes. Avoid comparing a panel-only price with a full service-upgrade price.
Let the loads establish the need
Share plans for EV charging, electric heating, cooking, laundry, additions and other major equipment. A qualified electrician should evaluate demand with the applicable load calculation.
If a new load is the only constraint, discuss whether an appropriate lower load or approved management strategy could meet the need. The utility must still evaluate its side of any change.
Naperville has its own service standards
The City’s contractor-registration guidance says its municipal distribution system uses standards different from ComEd. Confirm the provider for the actual property and use that provider’s requirements. City electrical contractor registration ↗
Ask who obtains utility approval, schedules any disconnection and reconnection, and coordinates inspection. Establish which charges are included and which will be billed separately. Do not assume same-day restoration without a confirmed plan.
Prepare for the interruption
Ask for the expected power-off period and what happens if inspection or utility work is delayed. Plan for refrigerated items, remote work and any equipment that cannot lose power. Discuss special needs well before installation.
The homeowner’s preparation should not include opening service equipment. Let the electrician obtain any inaccessible equipment details.
Quote essentials
- Calculated need and proposed service rating.
- Meter, disconnect, panel and conductor scope.
- Utility-side work and charges, if any.
- Permit, inspection and scheduling responsibilities.
- Restoration, labeling, final documentation and contingencies.