Underground Electrical Upgrades
Upgrading to underground electrical service is a smart investment in both safety and long-term property value. Whether you’re replacing an aging overhead system or preparing for a panel upgrade, understanding the full scope of what’s involved can help you avoid costly surprises and make informed choices.
What’s Actually Included in an Underground Service Upgrade?
Every project is different, but here’s a breakdown of what Peach Electric typically provides — and why it matters:
1. Pre-Construction Planning & Utility Coordination
- Pre-inspection walk(s) with your electrical utility
- Pre-construction meeting to review trench layout and panel details
- Inspection coordination with the city or local authority
These early steps ensure the project starts off compliant and on-track.
2. Trenching and Conduit Work
- Trench from Main Service Panel (MSP) to utility point of connection
- Install (1) 2″–3″ PVC conduit using Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 (as required by code)
- Lay utility-grade sand for conduit protection, when required
- Perform mandrel test to ensure conduit integrity
- Backfill trench with clean sand and gravel, and restore site as needed
3. Secondary Equipment Installation
- Install secondary utility box and matching cover
- Provide rock or gravel bedding for support
4. Special Site Considerations
- Saw cut concrete or asphalt when trenching crosses paved areas
- Tree root and canopy protection per local codes — many jurisdictions have detailed regulations around grading, trenching, or disturbing soil near protected trees. Violating these can result in fines, project delays, or required restoration work.
- Secure open trenches to minimize site liability during delays or inspection windows
These details may seem small, but each step plays a part in passing inspection and maintaining safety.
5. Utility Application & Design Advocacy
One of the most valuable — but least visible — parts of the job is behind the scenes: coordinating with the utility during the design process.
We don’t just submit applications. We proactively communicate with the utility to get specific items approved that benefit the homeowner. In the past, we’ve seen jobs get approved in ways that weren’t ideal for the client — often due to inexperience with utility design standards or a lack of understanding about what alternatives were available. That can lead to:
- Longer trench routes than necessary
- Meter locations that are inconvenient
- Higher long-term costs from avoidable decisions
With Peach Electric, you get a team that understands what to ask for and how to advocate for your best outcome.
Want to See It in Action?
We’ve completed many underground service upgrades across Northern California. Here’s one of our recent projects — a 400A main panel upgrade with a 440-foot trench:
Financing Without Compromising Quality
We understand this is a significant investment. That’s why we offer flexible financing options that allow you to move forward confidently without cutting corners or sacrificing quality.
Ready to Talk About Your Project?
Whether you’ve already received other quotes or are just starting to explore your options, we’re happy to walk you through the process or help you understand what’s included.
Contact Us — We’re here to help.
Contact Peach Electric today for professional underground electrical upgrades in Sacramento, CA, and ensure your home’s electrical system is safe, reliable, and efficient.
