Upgrade to 200 Amp Service for a Safer, More Efficient Home

Do I Need 200 Amp Service

If you’re a homeowner in Cranston, Providence, or anywhere in the state of Rhode Island, you may be wondering if you need to upgrade to a 200 amp service. As a family-owned and operated electrical business in Warwick, B&K Electric has been serving the residents of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. We pride ourselves on providing exceptional customer service and keeping our community safe with our expertise in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of upgrading to a 200 amp service and why it may be necessary for your home in the Warwick area and the greater Providence area.

Why Upgrade to a 200 Amp Service?

First, let’s discuss what a 200 amp service is. Amps, short for amperes, measure the amount of electrical current flowing through a circuit. The higher the amperage, the more power a circuit can handle. A 200 amp service can handle more power than a 100 amp service, making it necessary for larger homes that require more electricity to function properly.

One of the main reasons to upgrade to a 200 amp service is for safety. Homes built before the 1980s typically have 60-100 amp services, which may not be enough to handle the increased electrical demands of modern appliances and technology. Overloaded circuits can lead to electrical fires, so upgrading to a higher amp service can prevent potential hazards.

A 200 amp service can also provide more efficient electricity distribution in your home. With a 100 amp service, you may experience flickering lights, tripped circuits, or appliances not working at full capacity. These issues can be resolved by upgrading to a 200 amp service, which can handle the electrical demand in your home without any interruptions or disruptions.

Another important factor to consider when deciding whether to upgrade to a 200 amp service is the resale value of your home. Many potential buyers look for homes with updated electrical systems for safety and efficiency reasons. Upgrading to a 200 amp service can significantly increase the value of your home, making it a wise investment for the future.

In addition to these practical reasons, an upgraded electrical service can also give you peace of mind and save you money in the long run. With a more reliable service, you won’t have to worry about costly repairs or damages caused by an overloaded circuit. Plus, a 200 amp service can allow for the addition of new appliances or home renovations without the fear of electrical issues.

How Do You Know if You Need a 200 Amp Service?

As a homeowner, it can be challenging to determine if your home needs an upgrade to a 200 amp service. Luckily, there are some tell-tale signs that you may need to consider an upgrade:

– Flickering lights or frequently tripped circuits

– Upgrading to new appliances or adding new rooms to your home

– Using multiple high-energy appliances at the same time, like a refrigerator, microwave, and dishwasher

– Living in an older home with outdated wiring

– Experiencing frequent power outages or blackouts

If you are experiencing any of these issues, it’s crucial to consult a licensed electrician to assess your electrical system and determine if an upgrade is necessary.

What Does the Upgrade Process Entail?

The upgrade to a 200 amp service is not a DIY project and should always be done by a licensed electrician. At B&K Electric, we have a team of highly trained electricians who will assess your current electrical system and provide you with a detailed estimate of the cost and time involved in the upgrade.

The first step in the upgrade process is to obtain a permit from your local building department. This ensures that the upgrade is done safely and meets all building codes and regulations. Once approved, the electrician will replace your old service panel with a new 200 amp panel, upgrade your meter, and install a new grounding system.

The process can take anywhere from 4-8 hours, depending on the size and complexity of your home’s electrical system. You may experience a brief interruption of power during the upgrade, but the electrician will work quickly to minimize any inconvenience.

After the upgrade is complete, the electrician will do a thorough inspection of the new panel to ensure it is functioning correctly and safely. They will also provide you with tips on how to maintain your upgraded electrical system and any future steps you may need to take.

Upgrading to a 200 amp service can provide safety, efficiency, and peace of mind for homeowners in Cranston, Providence, and the surrounding areas of Rhode Island. It is a smart investment for the value of your home and the security of your family. At B&K Electric, we are dedicated to providing top-notch electrical services to our community. Make us your go-to electrician for all your residential needs in the Warwick area and the greater Providence area. Contact us today to schedule your 200 amp service upgrade and have confidence in the safety and efficiency of your electrical system.

Topics:

200 Amp Service,

Electrical Upgrades,

Residential Electrical Services