Commercial Service Upgrades in Denver
Larger services, three-phase conversions, and switchboard replacements in buildings that have to keep running.
An upgrade starts with a load study, not a panel order. Existing demand comes from metered utility history where it exists, then new loads get added: kitchen equipment, EV charging, added rooftop units, or a tenant with a heavier connected load than the last one. That number decides service size, whether 120/208 still works or the building wants 277/480 with step-down transformers, and whether the utility needs a larger transformer or a new pad. The utility's service requirements govern the metering, including CT cabinet, meter location, conduit, and clearances, all approved before material is ordered.
The change-out is a scheduling problem as much as an electrical one. Grounding electrode connections and bonding get brought up to current requirements, available fault current is verified so the new gear is rated for what can actually flow, and working clearance has to exist wherever the switchboard lands. The outage is planned around tenants with night or weekend cut-overs, temporary feeds for loads that cannot go down, and a written sequence agreed on before the disconnect is pulled. We pull our own permits on this work and meet the inspector on site.
How do I know if a building needs a larger electrical service?
A load calculation answers it. Add the new connected load to measured existing demand and compare against the service rating. Practical signs show up first: no spare breaker spaces, a main running near capacity during peak hours, or planned equipment the panel simply cannot feed.
What is the difference between a switchboard and a panelboard?
A switchboard is floor-standing main distribution gear, usually higher ampacity, often with rear or side access requirements, and it takes the service and splits it into feeders. A panelboard is wall-mounted branch distribution downstream of that, feeding circuits within an area.
How long is power off during a commercial service change-out?
It depends on scope, but the outage window is planned in advance rather than discovered on the day. Utility disconnect and reconnect have to be scheduled, and loads that cannot be interrupted get temporary feeds or a portable generator so the shutdown covers only the actual cut-over.
Based in Golden and on site across the Denver metro, from Lakewood, Wheat Ridge, and Arvada to the foothills.