Beat the 2020 NEC Code Changes: Upgrade Your Electrical Service Before Prices Rise
Estimated Read Time: 3 minutes
Significant electrical code changes are taking effect soon, and homeowners have a limited window to upgrade their electrical service at current pricing. Beginning January 1, all electrical service upgrades must comply with the 2020 NEC (National Electrical Code), which introduces additional materials, safety components, and labor requirements. Completing your upgrade before the end of the year ensures you lock in today’s lower rates before industry-wide increases take effect.
What’s Changing Under the 2020 NEC Code?
Mandatory Exterior Service Disconnect
The 2020 NEC requires an exterior-mounted service disconnect on every home to improve emergency responder safety. This new requirement adds:
- A dedicated disconnect enclosure
- Extra conduit, fittings, and wiring
- Additional labor for installation
These added components mean higher project costs once the new code becomes mandatory.
More Safety Equipment Means Higher 2025 Pricing
The updated code also expands requirements for:
- Surge protection
- AFCI/GFCI protection
- Grounding improvements
Combined with the new exterior disconnect rule, these changes will increase both materials and labor costs for electrical service upgrades starting January 1.
Why Upgrading Now Saves You Money
Lock In Pre-Code Pricing
Completing your electrical service upgrade before December 31 allows you to avoid the new code-required materials and additional labor, saving you hundreds or even thousands, depending on your electrical system.
Avoid January Inspection Delays
New code cycles typically bring:
- Stricter inspections
- Longer scheduling times
- Additional corrections mandated by inspectors
Upgrading now helps you bypass the challenges that often come with the first months of a new code rollout.
Price Increases Are Coming Across the Industry
All licensed contractors must follow the updated code starting January 1, which means electrical service upgrade prices will rise everywhere—not just with one company. Completing the work now secures current pricing and faster scheduling.
Year-End Savings Available Through JDV Electric
JDV Electric is offering up to $2,095 in total savings on new electric panels when purchased before the end of the year, including:
- Federal tax credit (up to $600)
- JDV Electric rebate ($1,000)
- 5-Year Safety and Savings Plan membership ($495)
Their year-end postcard also notes that electric panel costs may increase by as much as 20% in the new year due to rising raw material, shipping, and tariff costs. JDV Electric has already stocked its warehouse to help homeowners secure current pricing before these increases take effect.
The Bottom Line
Upgrading your electrical service before the end of the year is the most cost-effective and hassle-free choice. With:
- New 2020 NEC code requirements
- Expanded safety equipment mandates
- Stricter inspections starting in January
- Industry-wide price increases on the horizon
…now is the ideal time to move forward with your upgrade.
Schedule Your Upgrade Today
JDV Electric is offering complimentary evaluations and limited-time year-end pricing. To secure pre-code pricing and take advantage of available savings, schedule your upgrade before December 31.
Visit jdvelectric.com or call 484-450-8991 to book your appointment.