Upgrading to a 200-amp electrical service involves a multi-step process, typically requiring professional electrical work and permits. It includes replacing the existing electrical panel with a new 200-amp panel, upgrading the meter socket and wiring, and ensuring proper grounding and inspections. The entire process usually takes about a day with a qualified electrician.
1. Planning and Preparation:
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Consult with a Licensed Electrician:
Good Neighbors Electric will assess your current electrical system and advise on the necessary upgrades, including the size and type of panel needed, and whether any other electrical work is required.
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Obtain Necessary Permits:
Electrical work requires permits from your local authority, and we will handle this process, ensuring compliance with local codes and regulations.
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Coordinate with Utility Company:
We will work with the utility company to arrange for the disconnection and reconnection of power during the upgrade. This is a mandatory process, but we will minimize any disruption to your household or business.
2. Installation Process:
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Disconnect Power:
The power to your home will be temporarily disconnected while the old panel is removed.
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Install New Meter Socket and Panel:
A new 200-amp meter socket and panel will be installed, along with new wiring to accommodate the increased amperage.
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Upgrade Grounding:
Proper grounding is crucial for electrical safety, and the grounding system will be upgraded as part of the process.
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Install New Wiring:
New service entrance conductors (the main wires coming into the panel) will be installed, along with any necessary wiring for individual circuits.
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Connect and Test:
Good Neighbors Electric will connect all wiring, install circuit breakers, and test the system to ensure proper functionality.
3. Final Steps:
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Inspections:
The work will be inspected by the local authority to ensure it meets safety standards. This could be a day or so after installation.
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Utility Connection:
Once the inspections are complete, the utility company will reconnect the power supply.
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Final Touches:
We go the extra mile! We will install protective covers, patch up any holes, and ensure everything is neat and tidy.
4. Additional Considerations:
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Cost:
The cost of a 200-amp upgrade can vary depending on the complexity of the job, the materials used, and local labor rates. Call us for a quote (and new customers can receive 10% off the regular service rate!)
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Future Needs:
Consider your future electrical needs when choosing the size of the new panel. A larger panel (e.g., 200 amps) provides more capacity for future additions like a hot tub, EV charger, or larger appliances. Good Neighbors Electric commonly installs a 200 amp panel for today’s modern, connected house.
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Safety:Electrical work is inherently dangerous, and it’s essential to hire a qualified, licensed electrician to ensure the job is done safely and correctly. PS: THAT’S US! 😀
We take care of everythingf!
Upgrading a small electrical panel to 200 amps involves a multi-step process, requiring the expertise of a licensed electrician and coordination with the local utility company. The process includes obtaining necessary permits, potentially modifying the service entrance, installing a new 200-amp panel, and ensuring proper grounding and inspections.
Consult with an electrician (us!):
A qualified electrician will assess your current electrical system, determine the need for a service upgrade (and potentially a new meter socket), and provide a detailed quote.
Utility company coordination:
The electrician will work with your utility company to determine if any modifications to the service entrance (e.g., new wires, meter socket) are needed and to schedule power disconnection and reconnection.
Permitting:
The electrician will handle the necessary permits from your local authority for the electrical work.
2. Electrical Panel Upgrade:
Power disconnection:
The utility company will disconnect power to your home.
Removal of old panel:
The existing electrical panel is removed, and the wires are disconnected and labeled.
New panel installation:
A new 200-amp panel is installed, often requiring adjustments to the wall to accommodate its size and ensuring proper grounding.
Wiring and connections:
New wiring is run from the meter socket (or service entrance) to the new panel, and all connections are made according to code.
Meter socket upgrade (if needed):
If the existing meter socket is not compatible with 200-amp service, a new one will be installed.
Grounding and bonding:
A new grounding system is installed, including ground rods driven into the earth and connected to the panel.
3. Inspections and Power Reconnection:
Rough-in inspection:
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Before the walls are closed up, an initial inspection is done to ensure the wiring and grounding are done correctly.
Final inspection:
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Once the panel is installed and all connections are made, a final inspection is conducted by the local authority to ensure compliance with electrical codes.
Power reconnection:
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Once the inspections are passed, the utility company will reconnect the power supply to your home.
4. Potential Additional Steps:
Stucco/siding repair:
Depending on the extent of the work, stucco or siding may need to be repaired around the new panel.
Sub-panel installation:
In some cases, the existing panel may be converted into a sub-panel, drawing power from the new 200-amp panel.
Underground service:
If your service is underground, trenching and conduit installation may be required.
Important Considerations:
Safety:
Electrical work is inherently dangerous, and it is crucial to hire a qualified electrician for any panel upgrades.
Local codes:
Electrical codes vary by location, so it is essential to comply with local regulations.
Cost:
The cost of a 200-amp service upgrade can vary based on the complexity of the job and local labor rates
