Anyone else noticing more load upgrade requests this fall?

[Gotha_Prince]

Lately I’ve been getting more calls for panel replacements and service upgrades around Wyoming, especially older homes. Feels like every homeowner wants to prep for something like EV chargers, mini-splits, or just heavier modern loads. It’s a big shift from what I was seeing even last year. Curious if others in different towns are seeing the same bump in residential work this fall. Do you think this is just seasonal, or a longer-term trend as people start modernizing their systems?

 

[Ortega_Aliahan]

same story here. Feels like everyone’s upgrading panels for EVs or heat pumps lately. Half the houses I touch still have 100-amp service from the 70s, so once people add a car charger or two mini-splits, it’s game over. I think it’s a long-term trend, not seasonal like the gear’s just catching up to modern life.

 

[electr0roy]

hi @Gotha_Prince when you quote those panel replacements, always ask the customer about their next two big power draws (like 'Will you get a hot tub or add solar in the next five years?'). It allows you to oversize the panel slightly now, which leads to great customer feedback later and potentially more work!

 

[PGB1]

Now that you mentioned it, Gotha, I have also been hit with many more service upgrade requests than the one or two I receive each year. (I work distribution and industrial, so the only residential and commercial I do are "Government Jobs". i.e. Family& Friend Freebies.)

Everyone mentioned EV charging when asking.
Two "friends" asking of upgrade are commercial properties to make money by offering charging. Those WON'T be freebies! (If I do them)

I think the reason in the Detroit area is three-fold:
1) The elimination of tax incentives on EV chargers & vehicles meant lots & lots of people bought electric vehicles in the last few weeks.
2) Incentives being offered by the electric utility to upgrade for the purpose of an EV charger.
3) One auto company is offering employee price to everybody. I don't know if that is Metro Detroit specific or nation wide. (A snub to the tariffs)

Paul