New National Electrical Code Requirements Drive Urgent Need for Panel Upgrades in McKinney Area Homes
For McKinney residents planning electrical work, professional evaluations are essential—particularly in homes with older panels considering EV charging or efficiency improvements.
McKinney, Texas, United States, 19th Jan 2026 – Recent updates to the National Electrical Code (NEC), along with local adoptions across Texas jurisdictions including McKinney and Collin County, have triggered a surge in electrical panel upgrades for older homes. Contractors like ABR Electric in McKinney report growing demand as homeowners learn their existing panels often fail to support required safety devices or increased power needs during renovations, EV charger additions, or appliance upgrades.
The latest NEC editions emphasize enhanced protection against electrical fires and shocks, driven by higher household demands from modern appliances, home offices, and electrification trends. Key requirements include broader use of Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) and Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) in kitchens, laundry areas, bathrooms, and other spaces, plus mandatory surge protective devices (SPDs) for dwelling services. Provisions for electric vehicle charging, renewable energy integration, and energy management also demand reserved panel space and updated calculations.
In McKinney’s rapidly grown neighborhoods, thousands of homes from the 2000s–2010s feature legacy 100- or 150-amp panels—often Square D or similar—that lack slots, bus capacity, or compatibility for today’s protective breakers. Adding Level 2 EV chargers, heat pumps, or solar systems routinely exceeds these limits, necessitating full replacements for code compliance and safety.
“Homeowners in McKinney are often caught off guard when a routine project requires a major panel upgrade,” said James Adams, owner and State-Licensed Master Electrician at ABR Electric. “These code updates go beyond rules—they prevent fires and future-proof homes for modern living. Older panels simply can’t safely handle the required breakers or surge protection without risks.”
Adams advocates early assessments. “Treat the code book as your most important tool. We’re handling more upgrades because these protections work—electrical issues cause massive damage yearly, but compliant systems significantly cut those risks.”
Experts note that proactive upgrades can save money, especially with upcoming code cycles potentially requiring even more advanced (and costly) devices. Delaying often leads to failed inspections or unsafe modifications.
For McKinney residents planning electrical work, professional evaluations are essential—particularly in homes with older panels considering EV charging or efficiency improvements.
“A code-compliant panel protects your family today and adds real value tomorrow,” Adams added. “It’s more than compliance—it’s true peace of mind.”
Contact ABR Electric at 214-690-1941 for assessments in McKinney and nearby areas.de compliance, McKinney-area homeowners can contact ABR Electric at 214-690-1941.
Company Details
Organization: ABR Electric Square D
Contact Person: James Adams
Website: https://squared-by-schneiderelectric.pages.dev/
Email: Send Email
Address: HWY380
City: McKinney
State: Texas
Country: United States
Release Id: 19012636818