Electric Meter Upgrade For 200 Amp Service
You wake up in the morning and switch on your lights. After making scrambled eggs on your stove, you use your electric toothbrush before heading out the door.
For most people, electricity is just background noise. You cook, brush your teeth, and enjoy ambient lighting without thinking about all of the technical processes that go on behind the scenes. Even though you can’t see these hidden processes, they are integral to your home’s safety. If you have an older home, you may need to update your electrical systems to ensure the safety of your loved ones.
In the United States, new homes and electricity upgrades will generally have a 200-amp service. However, older homes may be outfitted with a 100-amp service. Your home’s efficiency and safety are important, which is why you should never undergo this switch on your own. You need a professional, highly skilled electrician to handle the upgrade for you.
Do You Need To Upgrade the Electrical Meter for a 200-Amp Service?
Do I need to upgrade my meter? If you live in a modern home, a 200-amp service is the best option. You’ll need to upgrade your meter as well if it isn’t currently rated for 200 amps.
Modern households have more electrical appliances and devices. Because of this, they have a higher demand for electricity that simply isn’t satisfied by a 100-amp service. By switching to the higher level, you can meet your family’s demand for electricity in a safe, efficient way. More importantly, switching to the new system can help you avoid electrical hazards and overloaded circuits.
Factors To Consider Before Upgrading
Whether you need to replace the meter or not depends on a few factors. If you’re uncertain about the best options for your home, reach out to our top-rated electricians today to get a professional evaluation.
Electrical Panels
First, you should look at the electrical panel to see what it’s rated. If it is rated at 100 amps or less, you’ll need to invest in an upgrade. You may also want to consider getting additional circuit breaker slots.
Meter Socket Rating
If your current meters socket has an amperage rating that is less than 200 amps, you’ll need to get it replaced.
Wiring
You may also need to make wiring updates if the wiring isn’t sized properly. For instance, you’ll likely need to change your service entrance cable as well as other wiring in your home to accommodate the higher amperage.
Grounding
Similarly, your grounding must be able to deal with the increased amperage that will flow through your electrical systems.
Permits
Depending on where you live, you may have to upgrade because of building codes and permit inspections.
Requirements From Your Utility Provider
Your utility provider may also have specific expectations for your wiring, ground, and meter sockets. Before you decide whether or not to replace yours, check with your utility company.
Future Plans
If you plan on adding more appliances, getting an electric vehicle, or building additional bedrooms, you’ll want to make sure your electrical system is fully prepared for it.
Can I Handle the Upgrade on My Own?
Deciding to upgrade your amperage and meter is an important decision. Replacing electrical systems requires professional experience, which most DIY lovers don’t have. If any electrical components are installed incorrectly, it can lead to electrocution, shocks, burns, and fires. Because of this, you should never risk the health of your family or the safety of your home by performing a DIY upgrade.
What Happens During the Upgrade Process?
Before we can officially begin the upgrade process, there are a few important steps we need to take first. For everyone’s safety, your utility company will need to disconnect the power for the duration of the upgrade process. We’ll also need to get the right permits and set up temporary power alternatives beforehand. To make our job easier, you’ll need to ensure clear access to your electrical panel and meter.
Afterward, we can begin the upgrade process. We’ll arrive promptly on the day of the scheduled upgrade with all of the tools we need to begin your project.
- We’ll remove the glass meter from the socket.
- Next, the meter socket will be unscrewed from the side of your home. We’ll cut the cable that is connected to the socket.
- The existing cable hole must be enlarged.
- A length of 200-amp cable is connected to your home’s new meter socket.
- This cable must be passed through the new, large hole in your wall.
- Then, we will secure your meter socket to the side of your home.
- We’ll double-check to make sure your socket is completely level.
- Our team will install your conduit and secure it to the meter socket.
Install the new PVC weatherhead and conduit to the exterior wall directly above the meter socket. - Then, the conduit will be attached to your home with plastic clips.
- The utility provider must mark where the underground lines are for safety purposes.
- Two copper ground rods must be placed in the ground. Afterward, they can be connected to each other and the meter socket.
- The glass meter must be plugged into the meter socket. Once the cover is closed, the replacement is complete.
Get Professional Help With Your Upgrades
Should I upgrade my meter? What meter size do I need?
As a homeowner, you likely have many questions about what type of electrical system will work best for your home. If you want to install a 200-amp service and replace the meter, we’ve got your back. Our team of noteworthy professionals worked in the Ocala area for many years, so we understand what it takes to achieve exceptional results in local homes and businesses.
Don’t put up with any malarky, call Mister Sparky! Learn more by reaching out to our licensed electricians today.
