In America, 200-amp service is the standard for new homes and upgrades, but many homes across the country still have 100-amp service. If you’re thinking about making the switch, a licensed electrician will have to replace the existing meter socket, service entrance cable, and other components to accommodate higher electrical capacity in your home.
In the video above, This Old House master electrician Scott Caron shows how he replaces an old electrical system. This project is not a DIY fix, but read on for step-by-step instructions to get an idea of how this upgrade works.
Why Isn’t This a DIY Project?
Upgrading to 200-amp service is a multi-step process that requires skills and electrical components that most DIY enthusiasts don’t have. It can also be deadly since beginners are prone to mistakes, making them more at risk of burns, shocks, and electrocution. If you’re not an experienced, licensed electrician, please don’t try this at home.
Why Upgrade to 200-Amp Service?
A 200-amp service panel can handle a larger electrical load, meaning that it can support more appliances and devices. It also reduces your risk of power outages, fires, and damage to your electrical system. As an added plus, it can increase your home’s value by future-proofing your home’s electricity and giving you a safer, more reliable power supply.
Preparing for the 200-Amp Service Upgrade
Before the upgrade begins, be sure to do the following:
- Obtain necessary permits from local authorities.
- Schedule a utility company visit to disconnect your power.
- Arrange for temporary power solutions during the upgrade.
- Clear access to the existing meter and electrical panel.
Make absolutely sure that the utility company disconnects your power before work begins. Otherwise, you or your electrician could be at risk of electrocution.
The Electric Meter Upgrade Process
Now that all the groundwork is in place and power is disconnected, it’s time to get started on your upgrade. Here are Caron’s steps for upgrading an electric meter to 200-amp service:
- Remove the glass meter from the meter socket.
- Unscrew the meter socket from the side of the house, then use cable cutters to sever the cable connected to the socket.
- Enlarge the existing cable hole in the wall using a cordless drill and a 3-inch-diameter hole saw.
- Bore through the rim joist using an extension shaft and a 2-inch-diameter hole saw.
- Attach a length of 200-amp SE electrical cable to the new meter socket.
- Feed the SE cable through the hole in the wall and then screw the meter socket to the exterior of the house.
- Use a torpedo level to verify that the socket is level.
- Install the new PVC weather head and conduit to the exterior wall directly above the meter socket.
- Secure the conduit to the meter socket using PVC cement.
- Fasten the conduit to the house with U-shaped plastic clips.
- Have the utility company mark the locations of any underground lines.
- Pound two copper ground rods into the ground using a 3-pound sledgehammer. Space the rods 6 feet apart.
- Make the wire connections between the ground rods, up to an inter-system bonding termination, and into the meter socket.
- Connect the power wires to the meter socket.
- Plug the glass meter into the meter socket. Then, snap on the meter cover.
Safety Considerations for Electric Meter Upgrades
Before starting your upgrade, check out the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s guide on electrical safety. Here are a few additional safety tips to keep in mind:
- Always work with a licensed electrician
- Use proper personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Follow local electrical codes
- Have underground utilities marked before driving ground rods
Make sure all tools and equipment used are in good condition to prevent accidents and injuries. Even when watching from the sidelines, you can never be too careful.