Panels & wiring
200 amp service upgrade
A 200 amp service upgrade increases the electricity your home can draw from the utility, replacing the panel and usually the meter base and service entrance cable. It is the common fix when a 60 or 100 amp home adds an EV charger, heat pump or electric range.
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- Licensed, independent electricians
- 47 states + DC
About 200 amp service upgrade
Most new single-family homes are built with 200 amp service, while many older homes have 60, 100 or 150 amps. Electrification projects add large loads: a Level 2 EV charger can draw 40 amps or more on its own, and heat pumps and induction ranges add more.
The upgrade involves the utility as well as the electrician, because the meter and service drop must be disconnected and reconnected. A load calculation first confirms whether 200 amps is the right size, or whether load management could avoid the upgrade.
- 200 Amp Service Upgrade at a glance
- Panels & wiring
- Who does the work
- An independent licensed electrician
- Urgent calls
- Usually scheduled
- Typical first step
- Load calculation
Signs you need this
- 60, 100 or 150 amp service with major loads planned
- The main breaker trips under heavy use
- No room for new circuits
- An electrician's load calculation near capacity
- An aging meter base or service mast
What the electrician does
- 1
Load calculation
Existing and planned loads are calculated to confirm the service size.
- 2
Utility application
The utility approves the larger service and schedules the disconnect and reconnect.
- 3
Install the new service
Meter base, service entrance conductors, panel, grounding and bonding are installed.
- 4
Inspection and reconnect
After inspection, the utility reconnects power, sometimes with a new meter.
What affects the cost
Electricians set their own prices. These are the factors that move a quote up or down, so you can compare like for like.
- Overhead versus underground service
- Meter base and mast replacement
- Distance between the meter and panel
- Utility requirements and fees
- Grounding electrode upgrades
- Permit fees
What you can do safely, and when to stop
Safe to do
- ✓ List the appliances and chargers you plan to add
- ✓ Find the main breaker size on your panel
Stop and call
- ✕ Do not touch the meter or service drop
- ✕ Do not open the panel
200 Amp Service Upgrade FAQ
Do I need 200 amps for an EV charger?
Not always. A load calculation may show that a 100 or 150 amp service can support a charger, especially with a lower charging setting or a load-management device.
How long does a 200 amp upgrade take?
The installation is often one day, but utility scheduling and permits can add days or weeks.
Does the utility charge for a service upgrade?
Some utilities charge fees or require their own work on the service drop. Policies vary, so ask your utility.
Is 400 amps ever needed?
For very large homes or homes with electric heat, pools and multiple EV chargers, a larger service may be justified by the load calculation.
Will my lights be off all day?
Power is usually off for much of the work day until the utility reconnects.
Where electricians offer this
Local guides to 200 amp service upgrade in cities where local housing makes it a common job:
Available through our network in 47 states and DC. Metro guides:
Related services
Electrical Panel Upgrade
A panel upgrade replaces your breaker panel, and often the service entrance, so the home can safely carry more load: an EV charger, heat pump, induction range or addition.
Learn more →
EV Charger Installation
A Level 2 home charger needs a 240 volt circuit, usually 40 to 60 amps, run from your panel to the garage or driveway.
Learn more →
Fuse Box Replacement
Fuse box replacement swaps an old screw-in or cartridge fuse panel for a modern circuit breaker panel, usually with a service upgrade at the same time.
Learn more →Need help with 200 amp service upgrade?
Call now, or send a request and a licensed electrician who serves your ZIP code will contact you.