University Place sits right next door to Tacoma, between the city and Puget Sound. Most of its houses went up after the war: ranches, split-levels and daylight basements along Bridgeport Way, Grandview Drive and the streets down toward Day Island and Sunset Beach.
Homes from that era are often running on their original panels and services. Two-prong outlets, ungrounded circuits, kitchens with too few circuits, and panel brands from the 1960s and 70s that electricians look at carefully. Add an EV, a heat pump or an induction range and the original 100-amp service can run out of room.
Tacoma Power serves University Place, so service upgrades here follow the same utility process as in Tacoma.
Where we work in University Place
- Chambers Bay area
- Day Island & Sunset Beach
- Bridgeport Way corridor
- Grandview Drive neighborhoods
- Neighborhoods near Fircrest
Common jobs in University Place
- Panel changes and 200-amp service upgrades
- Grounded outlets and circuit updates
- EV charger installs
- Kitchen remodel circuits
- Whole-home surge protection
Permits
Electrical permits come from Washington L&I or the city, depending on the jurisdiction. Panther confirms which applies and pulls the permit.
University Place questions
Asked in University Place.
Short answers to what University Place homeowners ask. More in the full Q&A.
Sparks, a burning smell, a hot panel or half the house dark? Turn off the breaker or the main if it’s safe to do so, then call. For fire or smoke, get out and call 911. For a downed line, stay well clear and call your utility.
My University Place house still has its original 1970s panel. Should I replace it?
Not automatically, but it’s worth an inspection. Some panel brands from that era have known problems, and many original panels are simply full. Panther will tell you plainly whether yours needs replacing or just needs attention.
Is 100-amp service enough for an EV charger in University Place?
Sometimes. It depends on what else the house runs. A load calculation shows whether the charger fits as is, fits with load management, or needs a service upgrade first. Panther does that check before quoting the charger.
Who is the electric utility in University Place?
Tacoma Power serves University Place. Panther coordinates with them on any job that needs a disconnect, meter work or a service upgrade.
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