How Much Does a 200 Amp Service Upgrade Cost in Delaware County?
How Much Does a 200 Amp Service Upgrade Cost in Delaware County?
I'm Gary Weinstein, owner of Weinstein Electric, and I've been upgrading electrical panels across Delaware County, Chester County, and the Main Line for over 15 years. I've seen a lot of things on the job. I've been asked for quotes mid-connection while literally holding live wires from PECO. True story. The customer couldn't wait. I respect the hustle.
Anyway — you're here because you want a straight answer on what a 200 amp service upgrade actually costs around here. I'll give it to you.
So What Does It Cost?
In Delaware County and the surrounding area, a 200 amp service upgrade runs between $3,400 and $6,300 for a standard residential installation. That's an all-in number — labor, materials, permits, and coordinating with PECO for the reconnect.
If someone quotes you $1,200, please call me before you hire them. I'll explain why over the phone for free.
What's Actually Included?
Here's everything that goes into a proper 200 amp upgrade:
Removal of your old panel and service entrance
New 200 amp main breaker panel installation
New service entrance cable and weather head
Grounding and bonding to current code
Permit pulled and inspected by Delaware County
PECO coordination for your power shutoff and reconnect
Full cleanup when we're done
That last one matters to us. We move whatever's in the way — and yes, we've moved some impressively heavy storage bins people stacked in front of their panels. You know who you are.
How Long Will I Be Without Power?
The whole job takes about 8 hours. You'll be without power for roughly 4–6 hours in the middle of the day while we coordinate with PECO.
Honestly? It's not that bad. We can bring a generator if you need to keep the fridge running, or — and I say this with love — it's a great excuse to take the day off and go get lunch. Some of my best customers have turned their panel upgrade day into a little staycation. Zero regrets.
Do I Need a Permit?
Yes. Always. No exceptions.
Any service upgrade in Pennsylvania requires a permit and a formal inspection. We pull every permit ourselves — that's part of what you're paying for. It protects you legally, ensures everything is up to code, and matters a lot when you eventually sell your house.
If an electrician suggests skipping the permit, that's your cue to end the conversation.
Why Are People Getting 200 Amp Upgrades Right Now?
The most common reasons I get called out to Delaware County homes:
Older homes with 100 amp service — if your house was built before the 1990s, there's a good chance your panel is undersized for the way you actually live today
EV chargers — Level 2 chargers need dedicated 240V circuits and a panel that can handle the load
Home renovations — finishing a basement, adding a kitchen, new HVAC — it all adds up fast
Selling your home — buyers and inspectors flag undersized panels every single time
Tripping breakers constantly — your panel is waving a white flag
Is 200 Amps Enough?
For most single-family homes in our area, yes. 200 amps handles modern life comfortably — EV chargers, central AC, home offices, the works. If you've got a bigger home, electric heat, or multiple EVs, we can talk about a 400 amp service or adding a subpanel. That's a longer conversation, and I'm happy to have it.
Why Weinstein Electric?
We're a locally owned, BBB Accredited electrical contractor based right here in Media, PA. I hold PA Master Electrician License #38541 and PA Contractor License #069531. We've been doing this since 2009 and every job comes with a lifetime warranty.
I show up on time. I pull my own permits. I answer my phone. And I will absolutely move your storage bins without complaining. Much.
Call us at (610) 565-3519 or book online at weinstein-electric.com.
Quick FAQs
How do I know if I have 100 or 200 amp service?
Look at your main breaker — it'll say 100A or 200A. If you're not sure, give me a call and I'll take a look.
Will my food spoil?
The outage window is planned and usually 4–6 hours. We can bring a generator for the fridge if needed. Just ask.
Does this add home value?
Yes. An updated panel eliminates one of the most common inspection flags in older Delaware County homes. Worth it before you list.
Is financing available?
Reach out directly and we'll figure something out.
Weinstein Electric serves Media, Springfield, Swarthmore, Havertown, Newtown Square, West Chester, Malvern, and communities throughout Delaware County, Chester County, and the Main Line.