08/21/2026
⚡ PROJECT SPOTLIGHT | UNIVERSITY PLACE, WA ⚡
Another electrical safety upgrade completed today in University Place, Washington!
This home was still relying on an older Federal Pacific electrical panel, so our first priority was getting that equipment out and replacing it with a modern Square D Homeline panel.
Because this home is located within Tacoma Public Utilities (TPU) service territory, the service upgrade also required the addition of an exterior emergency/service disconnect. This provides a clearly accessible means of disconnecting power from outside the home and brings the service configuration up to current requirements.
But we didn't stop at the panel upgrade.
🔶 Federal Pacific Panel Removed
The aging FPE equipment was removed and replaced with a modern Square D Homeline panel, giving the homeowner updated equipment and a much better foundation for the home's electrical system.
🔶 Exterior Service Disconnect Added
A new exterior disconnect was installed as part of the service upgrade to meet TPU requirements and provide an accessible means of shutting down power to the home.
🔶 50-Amp Portable Generator Connection
We also installed a 50-amp generator inlet and listed panel interlock, allowing the homeowner to safely connect a portable generator during an outage and selectively power circuits from the main panel.
The interlock is an important part of the installation—it mechanically prevents the generator breaker and utility main from being energized at the same time, helping prevent dangerous backfeeding onto the utility system.
One project, three major improvements:
⚡ Modern electrical panel
⚡ Exterior service disconnect
⚡ Portable generator backup capability
This is the kind of upgrade we love doing because it doesn't just replace old equipment—it improves safety, reliability, and emergency preparedness all at once.
If your home in University Place, Tacoma, Lakewood, Steilacoom, or the surrounding Pierce County area still has an older electrical panel—or you're considering adding generator backup—Ascend Electric can help you evaluate your options and build a system that makes sense for your home.
BUILT RIGHT. DONE ONCE. DONE SAFE.
ASCEND ELECTRIC
WA Contractor License # ASCENEL790L1