Upgrading your overhead electrical service is a crucial step in ensuring your home or business can handle modern electrical demands. This process involves replacing or upgrading key components of your electrical system to enhance safety, reliability, and capacity. If you’re considering an overhead service upgrade, this guide will walk you through the process, helping you understand why it’s important and what steps are involved.
What Is an Overhead Service Upgrade?
An overhead service upgrade refers to the process of increasing the electrical capacity of a property’s service panel, typically from a lower amp service (such as 60 or 100 amps) to a higher capacity like 200 amps. This upgrade ensures that your electrical system can handle modern appliances, HVAC systems, and other power-hungry devices efficiently. Overhead service refers to the electrical lines that run from the utility company’s pole to your home through overhead cables.
Why Upgrade Your Overhead Electrical Service?
If your home is still relying on an outdated 60-amp or 100-amp electrical service, upgrading to a 200-amp service can provide several benefits:
- Increased Capacity: Supports high-power appliances and modern technology.
- Improved Safety: Reduces risks of overloaded circuit breakers and potential electrical fires.
- Code Compliance: Ensures your electrical system meets the latest safety standards.
- Future-Proofing: Prepares your home for additional power needs, including electric vehicle charging stations.
Steps Involved in an Overhead Service Upgrade
1. Conducting an Electrical Assessment
A licensed electrician will evaluate your home’s electrical demands to determine whether a service upgrade is necessary. This includes:
- Reviewing current electrical panel capacity
- Assessing household energy consumption
- Checking for outdated wiring or electrical hazards
2. Obtaining Necessary Permits
Before work begins, permits must be secured from the local authority to ensure compliance with building and electrical codes. The utility company also needs to be notified of the upgrade to coordinate power disconnection and reconnection.
3. Disconnecting the Existing Overhead Service
On the scheduled upgrade day, the utility company will temporarily shut off power to allow safe installation. This ensures that no live electricity is flowing while the service upgrade is being performed.
4. Installing a New Overhead Service Panel
The electrician will replace the old electrical panel with a new one that can handle increased loads. This step involves:
- Removing the outdated panel
- Installing a new 200-amp panel
- Connecting breakers and circuits to distribute power safely
5. Replacing Service Entrance Components
To handle the increased electrical load, the service entrance components, including the service mast, weather head, and meter socket, may also need upgrading. The service mast provides structural support for the overhead wires, while the weather head ensures a watertight connection where the cables enter your home.
6. Upgrading Overhead Service Wires
New, higher-capacity service wires will be installed to replace older lines, ensuring they can safely carry the increased power load. The electrician will:
- Install a new service mast if required
- Upgrade service drop cables from the utility pole to the weather head
- Ensure grounding and bonding for system safety
7. Utility Company Inspection and Power Restoration
Once the upgrade is complete, the electrical work must be inspected by a certified inspector to ensure compliance with codes. After passing inspection, the utility company will restore power to your home.
How Much Does an Overhead Service Upgrade Cost?
The cost of upgrading to a 200-amp overhead service depends on various factors, such as:
- Location and accessibility of the service entrance
- Condition of existing wiring and infrastructure
- Permit fees and inspection charges
- Labor costs for a licensed electrician
On average, an overhead service upgrade costs between $2,500 and $6,000. Getting multiple quotes from professional electricians can help ensure you receive fair pricing.
Choosing a Qualified Electrician for Your Overhead Service Upgrade
Hiring the right electrician is crucial for a successful upgrade. Look for a licensed and insured professional with experience in overhead service upgrades and knowledge of local electrical codes. Check reviews and referrals to gauge reliability, and ensure they offer transparent pricing and warranties for their work.
Conclusion
An overhead service upgrade is an essential improvement for homes requiring increased electrical capacity and enhanced safety. By following the proper steps and hiring a qualified electrician, you can ensure a smooth, efficient, and code-compliant upgrade. If your electrical system is outdated, now is the time to consider upgrading to a 200-amp overhead service.
