Upgrading Your Home's Electrical Service: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 30/05/2025

Outdated electrical systems can be a significant safety hazard and limit the functionality of your modern home. From struggling to power multiple appliances simultaneously to flickering lights and tripping breakers, a deficient electrical service panel can cause frustration and even pose a fire risk. Upgrading your home's electrical service is a crucial investment that enhances safety, increases convenience, and potentially boosts your home's value. A properly functioning electrical system provides peace of mind, knowing your home is equipped to handle the demands of modern life.

This upgrade, while potentially daunting, can be managed effectively with the right guidance. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process, from initial assessment and permit acquisition to the final inspection, ensuring a smooth and safe upgrade to your home's electrical service. Let's get started!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Portable Generator
  • 200 Amp Meter Socket
  • 200 Amp SE Cable
  • Hole Saw with Extension
  • Screws
  • Duct Seal
  • PVC Conduit
  • Ground Rods
  • Sledgehammer
  • Inter-system Bonding Termination
Safety Guidelines
  • Always turn off the power at the main breaker before starting any electrical work. Failure to do so can result in serious injury or death.
  • Hire a qualified and licensed electrician for any significant electrical upgrades. Improper wiring can cause fires and other hazards.
  • Never work with electricity if you are unsure of what you are doing. Consult a professional if you have any doubts about your ability to complete the work safely.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Disconnect Power

    • Disconnect power from the home. Have the utility company disconnect their wires.

  2. Prepare for New Service

    • Remove the old glass meter from the meter socket.
    • Install the PVC conduit and secure it to the house.
    Install the PVC conduit and secure it to the house.Install the PVC conduit and secure it to the house.
    Prepare for New Service

  3. Install New Meter Socket and Cable

    • Install the new 200-amp meter socket.
    • Drill a new hole for the 200-amp service entrance cable.
    • Run the new 200-amp SE cable through the meter socket and into the house.
    • Secure the meter socket to the house.
    Secure the meter socket to the house.Secure the meter socket to the house.Secure the meter socket to the house.
    Install New Meter Socket and Cable
    • Install the new weather head and service entrance cable.
    Install the new weather head and service entrance cable.
    Install New Meter Socket and Cable

  4. Grounding

    • Install ground rods.
    • Connect the ground rod to the inter-system bonding termination.
    Connect the ground rod to the inter-system bonding termination.
    Grounding

  5. Connect Power and Finalize

    • Connect the power wires to the meter socket.
    • Install the meter and cover.
    Install the meter and cover.Install the meter and cover.
    Connect Power and Finalize

Read more: Installing an Outdoor GFCI Receptacle: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • Upgrading electrical service is a big project and should be done by a licensed electrician.
  • Use duct seal to prevent moisture from entering the meter.
  • Proper grounding is crucial for safety.
  • Mark all underground utilities before driving in ground rods.
  • Properly torque connections after installing the meter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Improper Grounding

Reason: Incorrect or incomplete grounding can lead to electrical shocks and fire hazards, as it doesn't provide a safe path for fault currents.
Solution: Ensure all wiring is properly grounded according to the National Electrical Code using appropriate grounding rods and conductors.

2. Overlooking Amperage Requirements

Reason: Installing a service panel with insufficient amperage will lead to frequent tripping of breakers and potentially damage appliances due to underpowering.
Solution: Accurately calculate your home's total amperage needs and choose a service panel with a rating exceeding that requirement.

3. Neglecting Permits and Inspections

Reason: Working without permits exposes you to fines and legal issues; inspections ensure the work is done safely and to code.
Solution: Obtain the necessary permits from your local authority before starting the project and schedule inspections at the appropriate stages of completion.

FAQs

How much will upgrading my home's electrical service cost?
The cost varies greatly depending on factors like your location, the current amperage of your service, the desired upgrade (e.g., from 100 amps to 200 amps), the complexity of the work, and the electrician's rates. Expect to pay anywhere from a few thousand dollars for a minor upgrade to tens of thousands for a complete overhaul. Getting multiple quotes from licensed electricians is essential to finding competitive pricing.