200 Amp Electrical Service: When Should You Upgrade Your Home?

When does a home need a 200 A electrical service?

A 200 A service is not automatically required because a house is large or because one new appliance is added. The decision should be based on the existing service, the connected equipment and a proper load calculation.

An upgrade is commonly considered when adding several major electrical loads, such as an EV charger, heat pump, electric furnace, spa, pool heater or secondary dwelling. Renovations that convert gas equipment to electric can also change the calculation substantially.

Start with a load calculation

The label on every appliance cannot simply be added together. Electrical calculations account for the type of load, demand factors and how equipment is expected to operate. A master electrician reviews the heating, cooking, hot-water and charging loads before recommending a solution.

If the existing 100 A service still has sufficient calculated capacity, it may remain suitable. When an EV charger is the only major addition, an approved energy-management device can sometimes limit charging when the house is using a lot of power.

Signs that deserve an assessment

Request an evaluation if:

• the panel has no practical room for new circuits;
• breakers trip when several large loads run together;
• the service equipment is damaged, corroded or obsolete;
• a renovation will add multiple high-demand appliances;
• an insurer, engineer or inspection report identifies a concern.

A full service upgrade may involve the meter base, service conductors, mast, grounding, main disconnect and panel. Hydro-Québec coordination may also be necessary.

Planning the project

Before requesting quotes, list the equipment you have now and the equipment planned over the next few years. Include nameplate ratings or model numbers when possible. This prevents paying for an unnecessary upgrade while also avoiding a new installation that is too small for upcoming projects.

Lumineau Électrique evaluates residential services across Greater Montreal. The objective is to choose a safe, code-compliant solution based on real demand—not simply to install the largest panel available.