Smart Electrical Panel Installation and Upgrade Guide

WHO NEEDS A SMART ELECTRICAL PANEL? Smart electrical panels are ideal for homeowners who want to modernize their electrical system, reduce energy costs, integrate solar power, or improve home safety. They are especially beneficial for those with electric vehicles, home battery backups, or frequent power outages.

WHERE ARE SMART ELECTRICAL PANELS INSTALLED?

mart panels are installed in residential properties, typically replacing the existing electrical panel. They can be installed in garages, basements, utility rooms, or any location where the main electrical panel is currently housed.

WHY UPGRADE TO A SMART ELECTRICAL PANEL?

Upgrading to a smart panel enhances home energy management, safety, and convenience. It allows homeowners to monitor and control their power usage, integrate solar and battery systems, and prioritize critical circuits during outages. Additionally, smart panels can detect electrical issues before they become hazardous.

A city inspector in Los Angeles, CA, standing at a construction site with a clipboard, reviewing plans near a partially constructed residential building with wooden framing.

WHAT IS A SMART ELECTRICAL PANEL?

  1. REAL-TIME ENERGY MONITORING: Smart panels track the energy usage of each circuit, allowing you to see which appliances or systems are consuming the most power. This can help you reduce unnecessary energy consumption and lower your electric bill.

  2. REMOTE CIRCUIT CONTROL: With a smart panel, you can remotely turn individual circuits on or off using a smartphone app. Whether you’re at home or away, this feature offers convenience and security.

  3. CIRCUIT PRIORITIZATION DURING OUTAGES: Smart panels can prioritize essential circuits during power outages when using a backup power source like a home battery or generator. This ensures that critical appliances such as refrigerators and medical equipment remain operational.

  4. SAFETY ALERTS AND DIAGNOSTICS: Receive instant notifications if your system detects an electrical fault, overloaded circuit, or abnormal power spike. Early detection can prevent electrical fires and costly repairs.

  5. SOLAR AND BATTERY INTEGRATION: Smart panels can seamlessly integrate with solar power systems and home battery backups. They help optimize energy flow, reduce reliance on the grid, and maximize the benefits of renewable energy.

  6. SCHEDULED AUTOMATION: You can schedule circuits to turn on or off at specific times. This is useful for automating outdoor lighting, EV charging, or high-energy appliances during off-peak hours.

 

POPULAR SMART PANEL BRANDS:

  • Span Smart Panel: Known for seamless integration with solar and battery systems, plus remote control features.

  • Leviton Smart Load Center: Offers smart breakers for monitoring and control at the circuit level.

  • Square D Energy Center: Designed to work with solar, EV chargers, and backup batteries.

  • Lumin Smart Panel Add-On: An upgrade module that adds smart capabilities to existing panels.

 

HOW IS A SMART PANEL INSTALLED?

  1. INITIAL ASSESSMENT: A licensed electrician will inspect your home’s electrical system to determine whether you need a complete panel replacement or if your current panel can be upgraded with smart devices.

  2. PANEL UPGRADE OR RETROFIT: Depending on the assessment, the electrician will either replace your existing panel with a smart panel or install smart monitoring devices into your current panel.

  3. SYSTEM INTEGRATION: The smart panel is connected to your home’s Wi-Fi network, and the associated app is configured. Integration with smart home systems like Alexa or Google Home can also be set up.

  4. TESTING AND DEMONSTRATION: After installation, the electrician will perform safety tests and verify that all circuits are functioning properly. You’ll be guided through using the app to monitor and control your panel.

HOW LONG DOES INSTALLATION TAKE?

The installation time varies depending on your home’s electrical setup. A standard smart panel installation may take a few hours, while more complex upgrades involving increased amperage or rewiring can extend to one or two days.

COST OF INSTALLATION: Due to the newness of smart panel technology and the variability in home electrical systems, installation costs are provided through a personalized quote. Contact LA Pro Electrical to upload your home’s plans or photos and receive a tailored estimate.

WHY CHOOSE LA PRO ELECTRICAL FOR YOUR SMART PANEL INSTALLATION?

  • Licensed and Experienced Electricians

  • Customized Solutions for Solar, Battery, and EV Charger Integration

  • Focus on Safety, Quality, and Long-Term Performance

  • Simple Online Quote Process: Upload plans, photos, or permits for an accurate estimate

Upgrade your home’s electrical system with the latest in smart panel technology. Contact LA Pro Electrical today to learn more and request your personalized quote.

Get in Touch Today for Expert Smart Panel Installation!

Take control of your home’s power with a modern smart electrical panel. Monitor your energy usage in real time, manage circuits remotely, and enhance safety with advanced features. Our expert team will install and set up your system, giving you greater efficiency, convenience, and peace of mind. Reach out today to get started!

What is a smart electrical panel, and how does it work?

A smart electrical panel is an advanced upgrade to your home’s traditional breaker panel. It monitors your electricity usage in real-time, allows remote control of circuits via a smartphone app, and helps optimize power consumption. It can also work with solar systems, batteries, and EV chargers for a more efficient and safer electrical system.

Why should I upgrade to a smart panel in Los Angeles?

Answer: Upgrading to a smart panel can: Help lower your energy bills by identifying high-usage circuits. Improve home safety with real-time fault detection and remote shut-off. Integrate with solar panels, battery storage, and EV chargers. Prepare your home for future energy-saving technologies and smart home automation.

How much does a smart electrical panel installation cost in Los Angeles?

The cost depending on your panel size, selected brand, and installation complexity. Integrations with solar, battery backup, or EV charging systems may increase costs.

What brands of smart panels are available in Los Angeles?

Popular brands we work with include: Span Smart Panel – Great for solar and battery systems. Leviton Smart Load Center – Ideal for circuit-level monitoring and control. Square D Energy Center – Known for home energy management. Emporia Vue (monitoring add-on) – Adds smart monitoring to existing panels.

Can a smart panel help during power outages in California?

Yes! Smart panels can prioritize essential circuits during power outages if you have a backup battery (e.g., Tesla Powerwall) or a generator. You can control and adjust circuits from your phone to extend battery life.

Is a smart panel compatible with solar systems and EV chargers?

Absolutely. Smart panels are designed to work seamlessly with solar power systems, home batteries, and electric vehicle (EV) chargers.

Are smart panels safe?

Yes, smart panels enhance safety with features like: Real-time alerts for overloaded or faulty circuits. Remote circuit shut-off capabilities. Built-in Arc Fault (AFCI) and Ground Fault (GFCI) protection to reduce fire and shock risks. All installations are performed by licensed electricians to ensure compliance with California electrical codes.

Do I need a permit to install a smart panel in Los Angeles?

Yes, a permit is typically required for panel upgrades or electrical modifications in Los Angeles and surrounding cities. We handle the permitting process to ensure everything is done correctly and up to code.