Would someone comment on why I should upgrade to 200 amp service?

last year

I have a 1200 sf house, built in 1941, that needs its current 100 amp breaker panel replaced.

In my 30+ years of ownership, the 100 amps has been sufficient for the household; and I hope to be in the house for at least another 10 years.

Of the 3 electricians that I've spoken with, 2 tell me that there is no need to upgrade to 200 amps; one strongly recommends that I do so ("while I am getting the work done"). The only reason that I can see to upgrade is if I wanted to get a plug-in EV, which I do not anticipate.

What opinions do the pros here have on the question? I will appreciate your input.

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Comments (4)

Seabornman
last year
The cost difference is minimal and will help resale. There are other things you (or someone else) might want in the future: induction cooktop, heat pump AC, a future outbuilding, etc.
raee_gw zone 5b-6a Ohio thanked Seabornman
rwiegand
last year
Very small difference in price to enable likely future upgrades as the world largely goes electric.
raee_gw zone 5b-6a Ohio thanked rwiegand
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raee_gw zone 5b-6a Ohio
Original Author
last year
Well, I've had them estimate both ways and it is ~1K more. I understand that there is more involved with the higher amps - a second grounding stake for one thing.

But I appreciate your input and will strongly consider it based on your thoughts.
wdccruise
last year
I would pay for the upgrade. Your old house may have gas appliances that use little electricity -- or perhaps none at all of you have a gas water heater with a pilot light. Modern electric appliances are high amperage. For example, my 1100 ft condo has 60- and 40-amp, 240-volt circuits for a heat pump; a 50-amp, 240-volt circuit for a range; a 40-amp, 240-volt circuit for a dryer; and a 30-amp, 240-volt circuit for a water heater.
raee_gw zone 5b-6a Ohio thanked wdccruise