What a 200 Amp Service Upgrade Really Means

By Forgy Electric

If your lights flicker when the air conditioner kicks on or you’ve been told you “need a service upgrade,” you’re not alone. Many homeowners in older homes still run on 60- or 100-amp electrical service, which just isn’t enough for today’s power demands.

Upgrading to a 200-amp electrical service is one of the most common—and most valuable—modern electrical improvements you can make. But what does that actually mean for your home?

What Is Electrical Service?

Your electrical service is the main source of power coming into your home from the utility company. It includes:

• The service line feeding electricity to your home

• The meter base that measures your usage

• The main electrical panel that distributes power throughout the house

The “amp” rating (amperage) measures how much electrical current your system can handle safely at one time.

Why 200 Amps Is the Modern Standard

Homes built decades ago were designed for basic appliances—lights, a TV, and maybe a refrigerator. But today’s homes include:

• Central air conditioning and heating

• Hot tubs and pools

• Electric ovens, dryers, and water heaters

• EV chargers and backup generators

• Smart home devices, computers, and entertainment systems

All that adds up. A 100-amp panel can easily become overloaded, leading to tripped breakers, flickering lights, or even overheating wires.A 200-amp service gives your home the capacity it needs to power everything safely and efficiently—without pushing your system to the limit.

Benefits of Upgrading to 200 Amp Service

1. More Power Capacity

Supports modern appliances and future electrical needs—no more worrying about overloading circuits.

2. Improved Safety

Older panels can fail or overheat. A new 200-amp service brings your home up to current electrical code and eliminates fire hazards.

3. Better Efficiency

Modern panels distribute power more evenly, reducing energy waste and system strain.

4. Ready for Add-Ons

Planning an EV charger, generator, hot tub, or addition? A 200-amp service ensures your home is ready for upgrades.

5. Increases Home Value

A modern electrical service is a strong selling point and can help your home pass inspections easily.

Signs You May Need a Service Upgrade

• Your breakers trip often or fuses blow regularly

• Lights flicker or dim when appliances run

• You use lots of power strips or extension cords

• The panel is warm, outdated, or makes crackling sounds

• You plan to add high-draw equipment (HVAC, EV charger, etc.)

If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to have your electrical system inspected.

What’s Involved in a 200 Amp Upgrade

Upgrading to 200 amps isn’t just swapping out a panel—it’s a full system update that includes:

• New meter base and service entrance cable

• Grounding and bonding brought to current code

• New main panel (typically 40+ spaces)

• Coordination with your utility company for reconnection

• Proper permits and inspections

At Forgy Electric, we handle the entire process from start to finish—safely, efficiently, and up to code.

A 200 amp service upgrade isn’t just about more power—it’s about peace of mind, safety, and future readiness. Whether you’re renovating, adding new equipment, or just tired of tripping breakers, Forgy Electric can design and install a service that fits your home’s needs today and tomorrow