Panel upgrades are one of the most common projects we do in Anchorage. Some are pure capacity (an EV charger, a hot tub, a shop) and some are safety-driven (an FPE Stab-Lok that's been quietly failing for 30 years). Here's how to tell which conversation you're having.
The capacity question
If you have 100A service and you're adding a 50A EV charger, a heat pump, or a workshop, you're going to run out of headroom — and your insurer may ask questions. A modern 200A panel with a few open spaces costs less than the cumulative service calls of squeezing more onto an old panel.
The safety question
Federal Pacific (FPE) and Zinsco panels are the two most common problem brands in older Alaska homes. Both have documented failure modes where breakers do not trip on overload. If you have either, replacement is the right call — many insurers now require it.
- FPE Stab-Lok breakers (orange handles, often)
- Zinsco panels with multi-colored breaker handles
- Any panel with visible rust, scorching, or melted bus
What an upgrade includes
A proper Anchorage panel upgrade includes the new panel, main breaker, grounding electrode system, bonding, and coordination with Chugach or MEA for the meter swap. We pull the permit, schedule the inspection, and handle the utility side so you're not chasing it.