Understanding a Heavy-Up: Why Upgrading Your Electrical Service Matters
At Power Circuit Electric & Tech, we’ve helped countless homeowners modernize and secure their electrical systems through what’s known as a heavy-up, or electrical service upgrade.
What Is a Heavy-Up?
A heavy-up means upgrading your home’s main electrical service panel—often from 100 amps to 200 amps or more—to handle today’s power demands safely and efficiently. With the increase in smart devices, HVAC systems, EV chargers, and high-end kitchen appliances, older panels simply can’t keep up.
During a heavy-up, our licensed electricians replace outdated panels, damaged service cables, and old meter boxes with modern, code-compliant equipment. We also ensure proper grounding, labeling, and surge protection for the entire system.
Why a Heavy-Up Adds Value to Your Home
Upgrading your electrical service is not just a safety measure—it’s an investment.
- Increases Home Value: Real-estate appraisers and buyers view an upgraded 200-amp service as a major selling point. It signals your home is modern, safe, and ready for future upgrades like EV chargers or solar panels.
- Prepares for Remodeling: Planning to finish a basement, add a new HVAC system, or install a hot tub? A heavy-up gives you the electrical capacity you’ll need without overloading circuits.
- Improves Reliability: No more flickering lights or tripped breakers when multiple devices run at once.
The Dangers of Damaged Service Cables or Old Meter Boxes
Old or deteriorated service cables are not just inconvenient—they can be dangerous. Frayed insulation or corroded connections can cause short circuits, power loss, or even electrical fires. Similarly, an outdated or rusted meter box exposes your system to weather damage and unsafe connections.
At Power Circuit Electric & Tech, we’ve seen homes throughout Maryland and D.C. with cables so worn that they caused recurring power issues and hazards. Replacing these components promptly prevents larger—and more expensive—repairs down the road.
County Requirements for Emergency Disconnects
Some counties are now requiring an exterior emergency disconnect switch for safety and accessibility reasons. This device allows first responders or utility personnel to safely cut power from outside the home during emergencies. When we perform a heavy-up, our team ensures that all county and NEC code updates, including emergency disconnects, are properly installed and inspected.
Trust the Experts at Power Circuit Electric & Tech
Our licensed electricians have upgraded electrical systems for homes across Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia. We follow detailed county inspection requirements and guarantee clean, professional installations that last. Whether your panel is outdated, your service cable is damaged, or you simply need more power for today’s lifestyle, Power Circuit Electric & Tech is ready to help.
Contact us today to schedule an estimate or inspection—and power your home the right way.
