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Replacing Your Outdated Electrical Service Equipment
Electrical Service Changes in Salisbury for Homes With Insufficient Power Capacity
Mike Murray Electric, Inc. performs electrical service changes for homeowners in Salisbury who need to replace the equipment that connects their home to the utility power supply. This work becomes necessary when your current service cannot handle the electrical load you require, whether you are adding new appliances, installing an electric vehicle charger, or running multiple high-demand systems that trip breakers repeatedly. You will see a noticeable difference in how reliably your electrical system performs once the service change is complete.
A service change replaces the service drop connection, the weatherhead, the meter base, and often the main breaker panel to provide a higher amperage rating. Most older homes were built with 100-amp service, which is no longer adequate for modern electrical demands. Upgrading to 200-amp service allows you to operate heating and cooling systems, kitchen appliances, water heaters, and charging equipment simultaneously without overloading circuits. The work involves coordinating with the utility company to disconnect and reconnect power safely while we replace all outdated components.
If your breakers trip frequently or you are planning major renovations, reach out to discuss whether a service change fits your situation.
What Happens During a Service Change
When you schedule a service change, we begin by evaluating your current service equipment and determining the appropriate amperage for your household needs. You will need to be without power for several hours while we remove the old meter base, weatherhead, and service entrance cable, then install new components that meet current National Electrical Code standards. We use heavy-gauge copper or aluminum conductors rated for the new service capacity and mount a new meter socket that accommodates digital utility meters.
After the service change is complete, you will notice that your electrical system handles higher loads without dimming lights, tripping breakers, or shutting down circuits. Your home will be equipped to support additional electrical demands without requiring further upgrades to the main service. The new equipment is built to last decades and provides a stable foundation for any future electrical work you plan.
We handle all permit applications and utility coordination required for the service change. The work must pass inspection before the utility company reconnects power, and we remain on site until your service is fully restored. This is not a project that includes interior rewiring or circuit additions unless you request those services separately.
Common Questions About Service Changes
Homeowners in Salisbury often have similar questions about what a service change involves and how it affects their daily routine.
- What is the difference between a service change and a panel upgrade?
A service change replaces the equipment outside your home that connects to the utility lines, including the meter base and service entrance conductors. A panel upgrade replaces the breaker box inside your home, and the two projects are often completed together when increasing amperage capacity. - How long will my power be disconnected during the service change?
You should expect your power to be off for four to six hours while we remove old equipment and install the new service components. We schedule utility disconnection and reconnection in advance so you can plan accordingly. - Why would I need to upgrade from 100-amp to 200-amp service?
You need higher amperage service when your household electrical demand exceeds what your current system can deliver safely. This happens when you add central air conditioning, electric heating, a hot tub, or an electric vehicle charger, or when multiple large appliances run simultaneously. - What permits are required for a service change in Salisbury?
You need an electrical permit from the local building department, and the completed work must pass inspection before the utility company will reconnect your meter. We handle the permit application and coordinate the required inspections on your behalf. - How do I know if my current service is outdated?
Signs include frequent breaker trips, dimming lights when appliances start, a meter base that shows rust or physical damage, or a main breaker rated at 100 amps or less when you have added significant electrical loads to your home.
Mike Murray Electric, Inc. has completed service changes throughout Salisbury for homes built in eras when 100-amp service was standard. If you are preparing for a major renovation or need reliable power for new equipment, contact us to evaluate your current service capacity and discuss whether a service change is the right step.
