Replacing an electrical panel seems simple at first, but delays happen fast when you’re waiting for approvals, materials, or power shutdowns.

It usually takes between 8 to 12 hours of actual labor spread across 1 to 2 working days, depending on the job’s complexity and coordination with power utilities.

When I joined early projects as a sales engineer at Fuspan, I often saw buyers and technicians underestimate how much time an electrical panel replacement¹ takes. The real challenge isn’t the tools or wiring—it’s the waiting game for permits, utility scheduling, and connection checks that turn a few hours of labor into a two-day project.

How long does it typically take to install a new electric panel?

Most people expect a one-day job, but installing a new panel usually becomes a two-day process once you factor in inspection time.

Usually, installation takes about 8 to 12 hours, depending on the existing wiring layout, site conditions, and whether the utility company needs to disconnect power for safety.

Why installation time² varies

When I’m at project sites, I see how job duration changes from one building to another. It depends on how complicated the wiring is, and whether the installer has to replace old conduits or relocate meters. If a new panel goes into a commercial setting, inspection approvals³ can delay the process even more. Weather, staff coordination, and access to materials like fuses or busbars also make a difference. Below is a simplified breakdown of how the time typically splits between stages:

Even though the physical work fits into one shift, site verification and reconnection approval can easily extend the total time to two full working days.

What is the average cost to replace a breaker panel⁴?

Every customer wants a clear price upfront, but the cost can swing based on brand, size, and region.

On average, replacing a breaker panel costs between $1,500 and $3,000, covering materials, permits, and labor from licensed electricians.

Breaking down the cost factors⁵

Whenever I source components for clients, most want to know why two quotes for similar panels look so different. The answer usually lies in panel amperage, brand reliability, and what’s included in service. Higher-rated units or larger breaker counts increase both material and labor costs. If the customer wants a branded modular system—for instance, with premium busbar assemblies—the pricing can rise sharply. Here is a general breakdown:

I often tell clients that saving money by skipping certified parts or skilled installers almost always results in higher long-term maintenance costs.

How long does it take to change a fuse box to a breaker box?

Upgrading from a fuse box to a breaker box is more than a swap—it’s a safety modernization⁶ that changes the system’s capacity.

The process usually takes 10 to 16 hours, as it often involves rewiring, upgrading busbars, and ensuring full code compliance for modern electrical loads.

Understanding upgrade complexity

When I first saw a fuse box replacement up close, I realized that the wiring inside old systems is often unruly and aged. Converting to a modern breaker box doesn’t only mean installing new hardware—it means upgrading grounding, fitting new terminals, and verifying current ratings. These upgrades can’t be rushed, because outdated wires may crack under strain when repositioned. Electricians also need time to label new breakers and test load balance. That careful work matters most in factories or solar projects where power continuity is vital. A basic schedule looks like this:

Despite the extra hours, most clients see immediate benefits afterward—improved electrical efficiency⁷, stable voltage, and easier maintenance.

Conclusion

Replacing an electrical panel usually fits within two days of work, but preparation, safety, and coordination decide how long it truly takes.

Fuspan

Fuspan is a professional manufacturer based in Wenzhou, China, specializing in low-voltage fuse protection, busbar systems, and distribution solutions for DC and AC electrical systems, especially in the new energy and industrial sectors.
We provide vertical fuse switch disconnectors, NT/NH/BH fuse holders and bases, busbar distribution blocks, MCB & MCCB pan assemblies, distribution boxes, and customized electrical panel components.
All products comply with IEC and GB standards, following ISO 9001 quality control. With a monthly output exceeding 50,000 units, we serve panel builders, energy companies, and system integrators globally. Our goal remains to supply safe, durable, and modular electrical protection components trusted across diverse installations.