If you're reading this, you've probably been told your home needs a 200 amp panel upgrade. Maybe you want to add an EV charger, or your electrician flagged your 100-amp panel during an inspection. Either way, understanding what's involved helps you make an informed decision.
What Does "200 Amp Service" Actually Mean?
Your electrical service amperage determines how much power can flow into your home simultaneously. Think of it like a highway: more lanes (amps) allow more traffic (electricity) to flow.
- 100-amp service: Common in homes built before 1980. Sufficient for basic needs but struggles with modern electrical loads.
- 150-amp service: A middle ground, but increasingly inadequate for today's homes.
- 200-amp service: The current standard. Handles modern HVAC, electric appliances, EV chargers, and smart home systems comfortably.
When Is 200 Amp Service Necessary?
You likely need to upgrade if you have:
Current electrical issues:
- Breakers tripping frequently
- Lights dimming when appliances turn on
- Running out of breaker slots
- Using multiple power strips and extension cords
Future plans that require it:
- Electric vehicle charger (40-60A dedicated circuit)
- Hot tub or pool equipment
- Whole-house generator with automatic transfer switch
- Major kitchen remodel with electric range
- Adding central air conditioning
- Home workshop with welders or large power tools
Electrical Panel Upgrades for St. Charles & St. Louis County homes
Free on-site estimate, flat price before any work starts.
The Upgrade Process Explained
Here's what happens during a typical 200 amp panel upgrade in St. Louis:
1. Assessment and Quote
We evaluate your current system, discuss your electrical needs (now and future), and provide a detailed quote. This is always free.
2. Permit Application
We file for permits with your local municipality (St. Louis County, St. Charles County, or city). This typically takes 3-7 business days.
3. Ameren Coordination
For most upgrades, Ameren must:
- Disconnect your current service (pull the meter)
- Reconnect service to the new panel and reset the meter
If the meter base needs replacing, we install it while the meter is out.
We coordinate all of this, so you don't need to call Ameren.
4. Installation Day
What to expect:
- Power off for 4-6 hours during switchover
- New panel mounted (usually same location)
- All circuits transferred and labeled
- New grounding installed if needed
- Power restored same day
5. Inspection
The municipality inspects our work to verify code compliance. We schedule and attend this inspection.
What's Included in the Upgrade?
A complete 200 amp panel upgrade typically includes:
- New 200-amp main breaker panel - 40+ circuit spaces
- New circuit breakers - All breakers replaced with new
- Meter base upgrade - If current one isn't rated for 200A
- Service entrance cable - If existing cable is undersized
- Grounding electrode system - Updated to current code
- Whole-house surge protector - We recommend including this
- Complete circuit labeling - Know what each breaker controls
- Permit and inspection fees - All included
What About the Service Entrance Cable?
The cable running from the meter to the panel (service entrance cable) must be sized for 200 amps. In many older homes, this cable needs replacement during the upgrade.
If your meter is on the opposite side of the house from your panel, this can add cost due to longer cable runs.
Do I Need to Upgrade My Meter Base?
Maybe. If your current meter base is only rated for 100 or 150 amps, it must be replaced. We assess this during the initial consultation.
Ameren owns the meter itself, but homeowners own the meter base (the enclosure). We handle meter base upgrades when needed.
Common Questions
Q: How long does the upgrade take? A: Most residential upgrades are completed in one day. Power is typically off for 4-6 hours.
Q: Will my electric bill increase? A: No. Having 200-amp service doesn't mean you use more electricity. It just means you can use more at once if needed.
Q: Do I need to be home? A: Yes, for at least part of the day. We need interior access and you'll want to be there when we restore power.
Q: Will this require drywall repair? A: Usually not. Most panels are in garages, basements, or utility areas. We work carefully to minimize any patching needed.
Q: Can I add circuits later? A: Yes! A new 200-amp panel typically has 40+ spaces, giving you plenty of room for future additions.
Why Choose a Licensed Electrician?
Panel upgrades involve working on live utility connections and must meet strict code requirements. This isn't a DIY project:
- Safety: Working near the meter involves live utility power
- Code compliance: Improper installation fails inspection
- Insurance: DIY electrical work may void your homeowner's insurance
- Permit requirements: In most St. Louis-area jurisdictions a licensed electrical contractor pulls the permit for a panel upgrade
Service Areas
We perform 200 amp panel upgrades throughout the St. Louis metro including Chesterfield, Ballwin, Wildwood, Creve Coeur, Town and Country, Manchester, Kirkwood, Webster Groves, O'Fallon, St. Peters, St. Charles, Wentzville, Lake St. Louis, and Cottleville.
Ready to Upgrade?
Schedule a free panel assessment and we'll evaluate your current system, discuss your needs, and provide a detailed quote.