want a kiln, need electrical advice

I'd like to get an electric kiln, and will need the necessary circuits/breakers/outlet installed. It doesn't look like there's any room in my panel for this. My house was built in 1973. Should I take this opportunity to upgrade the whole panel, or would a subpanel be fine in this situation? I will likely have two kilns at some point (one needing 20 amp breaker, the other 50-60)

I do a lot of DIY stuff in my house, but screwing with the panel makes me nervous, and I'd like to hire a professional. Any thoughts on how to find a decent one and what this sort of work would cost?

Thanks!!
beth

 

If your house has 100 a service,, which was quite common in those days and upgrade is in order. It would likely get you the spaces you need. You might ask around about contractors,, even local stores often have a scoop on that. Friends are good to check with. There are so many variables to cost. Underground, overhead, where the panel is located, area of country or even city and demand for electricians at the time effects the cost. You might even spot one near you on here that could give a better idea.

 

Thanks for the info.
I think it should be a pretty straighforward job - the panel is easy to get to, right in the garage; and the new outlets that I want for the kiln(s) would be right next to it. This is near Seattle, WA - so if anyone has any input on cost to upgrade this panel it would be helpful - I might just have an electrical friend do it, but I'd like to know how much to give him (because I know he'll likely not take anything if I were to ask him).

 

You can often put thhe new one right next to the old one so there is a simple change over,, really makes it nice. If it is overhead its a bit more work,, but a guy should be able to do it in a day easy,,, including going shopping. Now,,, I am sure I will catch some hell for this but,,,,,I am 40 something (a retired guy might not want to move as quick,,,, ha )and have all the right tools so I can do the actual install in half a day or so,, but if he is your friend when its done if you can give him 2 or 300 or so you would be getting a bargain and he make good pay for the day,, but we are not really into giving advice on that type of thing here,,, but thats how it is done sometimes. I ran some plumbing the other day and didnt ask and the guy gave me 300. He had a grip on what it would have cost.

 

Technically you are not suposed to hire anyone without contractors licence. (there is my disclaimer)