What Is a Full Electrical Service Upgrade? (Everything Homeowners Should Know)

A full electrical service upgrade is the process of replacing and modernizing your home’s main electrical system so it can safely and reliably meet today’s power demands. Many older homes were not built to handle the electrical load of modern living—HVAC systems, hot tubs, EV chargers, home offices, and high-powered appliances can overwhelm outdated systems, creating safety risks.

Upgrading your electrical service increases your home’s power capacity and brings your system up to current electrical code (NEC) standards.

In simple terms: a service upgrade replaces old electrical equipment with new, code-compliant components that provide more power, increased safety, and long-term reliability.

Why Would You Need an Electrical Service Upgrade?

Homeowners typically consider a 200-amp electrical service upgrade when they experience electrical issues or plan improvements that require more power. Common reasons include:

• Frequent breaker trips, dimming, or flickering lights in the home.

• Outdated panels 20-30 years old.

• Limited electrical service or space (60A, 100A, or 150A)

• Improper grounding issues

• Adding high-demand equipment such as:

  • EV charger or electric vehicle station

  • Hot tub or sauna

  • HVAC system or heat pump

  • Swimming pool equipment

  • Workshop or power tools

• Unsafe or outdated electrical panels that may be a risk:

  • Federal Pacific (FPE)

  • Zinsco

  • Challenger

  • Fuse boxes

• Home inspection or homeowner’s insurance requirements

• Home renovations, additions, finishing a basement, or upgrading appliances

If your electrical system is outdated or struggling to keep up, a full service upgrade ensures your home has the power and protection it needs now and for the future.

What’s Included in a Full Electrical Service Upgrade?

When upgrading to a 200-amp electrical service (or higher), the following components are typically included:

✔ New Outdoor Meter Base

Replacement of your home’s exterior meter enclosure and wiring to meet current utility provider and NEC safety standards.

✔ New Main Electrical Service Panel

Installation of a modern, code-compliant breaker panel with increased capacity, improved safety technology, and proper circuit labeling.

✔ New Service Entrance Conductors

Upgraded wiring from the utility’s service point to your homes panel, capable of supporting the increased amperage.

✔ New Main Disconnect / Main Breaker

Provides a single, safe shut-off point for all electricity entering your home outdoors.

✔ Grounding & Bonding Upgrades

Brings your home’s grounding system up to code, typically including:

• Two 8' Ground rods with grounding block for cable/internet

• Grounding electrode conductors

• Bonding to water and/or gas piping (as required)

✔ Whole-Home Surge Protection (Required)

Protects your home’s electrical system, appliances, and electronics from power surges, lightning strikes, and utility company fluctuations.

✔ AFCI & GFCI Protection (Required)

Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) and Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) breakers or devices are installed where required to reduce the risk of electrical shock and fire.

✔ Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors (Required)

Installation or upgrade of hardwired, interconnected smoke and CO detectors to bring your home up to current safety code.

✔ Permits, Inspection & Utility Coordination

We take care of permits, inspections, and utility coordination, including scheduling power disconnection and reconnection. If a contractor tells you a permit isn’t necessary for a service upgrade, consider it a warning sign. Any reputable electrical company will pull the required permits to protect your home and ensure the work meets code.

How Long Does a Service Upgrade Take?

After permitting and coordination with the power company, in a normal situation, we can typically send our full crew to your home and complete the entire electrical service upgrade in one day, with power restored before we leave.

Benefits of Upgrading Your Electrical Service

A modern electrical service upgrade provides:

✅ Increased Power Capacity for Today’s Electrical Needs
✅ Improved Fire & Shock Protection
✅ Code-Compliant AFCI, GFCI, Surge Protection & Safety Devices
✅ Protects Electronics & Appliances from Costly Damage
✅ Helps Meet Home Inspection & Insurance Requirements
✅ Adds Value to Your Home & Prepares You for Future Add-Ons