Electrical Upgrades and Remodels
Licensed electricians delivering efficient upgrades and remodels, on time, on budget, and with clear communication.
Cole Electric provides electrical upgrades and remodels across Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, and Portsmouth. From panel upgrades to new circuits for additions, our licensed electricians ensure every project results in safe, code-compliant improvements. With clear, fair pricing and a promise that you’ll always pay the lower amount if costs come in under our estimate, you can count on work done right.
Our Electrical Upgrade and Remodel Process
At Cole Electric, we make upgrades and remodels simple with clear communication and dependable work. We provide upfront estimates, arrive prepared with fully stocked vans, and complete every project with precision and care. Throughout the process, our licensed electricians keep you informed so your home upgrade is finished on time and on budget.
Popular Electrical Upgrades and Remodels
Panel Upgrades for Higher Amperage
Upgrade your electrical panel to handle modern demands safely. Our licensed electricians install higher-capacity panels to support EV chargers, heavy appliances, pool/hot tub equipment, and other circuits while meeting all code requirements.
Upgrading Ungrounded Outlets
Replace old two-prong outlets with GFCI-protected 3-prong outlets. Our expert wiring supports modern electronics, kitchen appliances, and sensitive devices while protecting your family and equipment.
Home Additions and Remodels
Updating or expanding your home? We install circuits, outlets, and lighting to power your home’s changing needs safely. Our licensed electricians provide reliable solutions for every room and upgrade.
Fuse Box to Breaker Panel Conversions
Eliminate fire hazards with a modern breaker panel conversion. We replace unsafe fuse boxes with reliable circuit breakers, upgraded wiring, and proper grounding.
Whole House Rewiring
Replace outdated knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring with modern circuits designed for today’s electrical demands. When desired for older homes or major remodels, our licensed electricians deliver a safe, seamless upgrade.
These are just a few of the upgrades and remodels we provide. Every home project is unique, and we’re here to support you at every step. No matter what electrical upgrade you are looking for, or the scale or scope of your remodeling project, our experienced team is here to help. Reach out today to discuss your project and get a free, no-commitment estimate.
FAQs
Can you upgrade my panel to higher amps for an EV charger, pool, sauna, or tankless water heater?
Yes. Depending on the current panel amperage, this may require replacing both the panel and the meter base. Panels can also be replaced at the same amperage (if already adequate) with more breaker slots available for more circuits.
What size panel upgrade is required for a tankless water heater or sauna?
It depends on the power requirements of the new appliance. Gas tankless water heaters rarely require a panel upgrade, but electric tankless heaters may. Electric tankless heaters typically need three or four new high-amperage (40-amp) circuits. Electric saunas will typically require one new, lower-amperage circuit. For most homes, 200-amp service is usually sufficient for even these additions. If you have this kind of project in mind, we can do an on-site estimate and recommend exactly what you need. We won’t upsell you on a panel upgrade if one isn’t necessary.
Should I replace my FPE, Challenger, or split-bus electrical panel?
We always recommend that Federal Pacific panels be replaced. They are known for not tripping a breaker when it senses a fault. This makes this brand a fire hazard. Challenger brand panels have a reputation for poor reliability, so we recommend replacing them as well. Split bus panels are obsolete and are often misused, leading to early failures. We can evaluate this for you and give a recommendation on whether to replace it soon or later. We recommend replacing those for reliability and flexibility more than as a safety hazard. Additionally, parts are difficult to source for them.
Should I replace my old fuse box with a modern breaker panel?
Likely yes. You cannot add circuits to a fuse box, which limits any improvements you can make. Like other obsolete equipment, they cannot be repaired and are well beyond their reliable lifetime. Since they are in homes that typically have very old wiring as well, we recommend an on-site evaluation and estimate for the improvement you are planning.
Do I need an electrician when adding a new room or remodeling my home?
Virginia code requires a permit and inspection for such changes. While homeowners are allowed to apply for permits and do their own work, many are daunted by both, especially doing it all safely and properly. A professional, licensed, and insured electrician will take care of all that for you.
Is whole-house rewiring necessary for older homes?
It very much depends on the situation and the type of existing wiring. If you need major changes or additions to your power, it may be the way to go. However, there may be alternatives that offer the same safety and reliability at a much lower cost. We can advise you based on your situation and needs.
Are ungrounded outlets safe to use?
Ungrounded outlets, unless GFCI protected, don’t provide the safety of modern circuits, but they can be safely used for “double insulated” devices that have only 2-prong cords.
