Understanding the Electrical Upgrade (Heavy-Up) Process: A Homeowner’s Guide
If you’re experiencing frequent circuit breaker trips, planning a home renovation, or need to add high-power appliances, you may require an electrical heavy-up upgrade. This process increases your home’s electrical capacity, ensuring a safer, more efficient power supply. At Meyer Electrical Services, Inc., we specialize in electrical panel upgrades in Bethesda, MD, using top-quality Cutler Hammer panel boards and circuit breakers, all backed by a lifetime warranty.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the heavy-up process, why it’s essential, and how our expert team ensures a seamless upgrade for your home.
What is a Heavy-Up & Why Do You Need One?
A heavy-up is an electrical service upgrade that increases the amount of amperage coming into your home. This upgrade is often necessary when your current panel can no longer support the growing electrical demands of your household.
You might need a heavy-up upgrade if:
✅ Your electrical panel has no more room for new circuits.
✅ You want to install new appliances but lack the necessary power capacity.
✅ Your circuits frequently trip due to overloaded circuits.
✅ You’re planning a home renovation that requires more electricity.
✅ Your home’s electrical system is outdated and unable to handle modern electrical loads.
At Meyer Electrical Services, Inc., our licensed electricians in Bethesda, MD, can assess your electrical needs and determine whether a heavy-up is the right solution for your home.
Step-by-Step Heavy-Up Process
Step 1: Initial Consultation & Free Estimate
The process begins with a free consultation. Our experts will inspect your electrical system to assess whether a heavy-up is necessary. If so, we will provide a detailed estimate outlining the scope of work and costs.
Step 2: Approval & Permit Acquisition
Once you approve the estimate, we handle all the necessary permits. An electrical permit is required to ensure that the upgrade is performed safely and up to code. The permit also allows the county to inspect the work and relay the information to PEPCO, the local power provider.
Step 3: Heavy-Up Installation (7-8 Hours)
The actual heavy-up installation takes about 7 to 8 hours. However, you should expect your home’s power to be shut off for approximately 4 hours during the process. Our certified electricians will:
✔ Remove your existing electrical panel.
✔ Install a new, high-capacity panel.
✔ Upgrade wiring and circuit breakers to meet increased amperage needs.
✔ Ensure compliance with all safety regulations.
Step 4: Inspection & Approval
Once the heavy-up is completed, an inspector from your jurisdiction will visit your home to verify compliance with electrical codes and safety standards.
Step 5: Notification to Power Company (PEPCO)
After passing the inspection, our master electricians will submit an application to PEPCO, notifying them of the completed heavy-up. The inspector will also send the necessary documentation to authorize the final connection.
Step 6: PEPCO Work Request & Site Check (30-90 Days)
PEPCO will then issue a work request number and conduct a site check to ensure all requirements are met before performing the final connection. This step typically takes 30 to 90 days, depending on PEPCO’s workload and scheduling.
Step 7: PEPCO Final Connection
Once everything is approved, PEPCO will send a crew to complete the final connection to your electrical meter and service weather head. This final step brings your upgraded electrical system online, allowing your home to safely handle higher electrical loads.
🎉 Congratulations! Your home now has an upgraded, high-capacity electrical system!
Why Choose Meyer Electrical Services, Inc. for Your Heavy-Up?
At Meyer Electrical Services, Inc., we take pride in providing top-rated electrical services in Bethesda, MD. Here’s why homeowners trust us for their electrical panel upgrades:
✅ Lifetime Warranty – We offer a lifetime warranty on all panels, circuit breakers, and labor.
✅ Expert Electricians – Our team consists of licensed, experienced electricians who follow strict safety codes.
✅ High-Quality Products – We install Cutler Hammer panel boards and circuit breakers, known for their durability and reliability.
✅ Compliance & Safety – We obtain all necessary permits and inspections, ensuring compliance with local codes and PEPCO regulations.
✅ Seamless Process – We handle everything from permits to inspections and coordination with PEPCO, making the process hassle-free.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heavy-Up Upgrades
1. How do I know if I need a heavy-up?
If your electrical panel is full, your circuits are frequently tripping, or you’re planning major home renovations, a heavy-up may be necessary. Contact us for a free assessment.
2. How long does a heavy-up take?
The installation itself takes about 7-8 hours, with power being off for around 4 hours. However, PEPCO’s final connection may take 30-90 days after inspection.
3. Will a heavy-up increase my energy bill?
No, upgrading your electrical panel does not increase energy consumption. It simply ensures your home can handle higher electrical loads safely.
4. Can I stay in my home during the upgrade?
Yes! However, you will experience a temporary power outage for about 4 hours during the upgrade process.
5. Is a heavy-up a DIY project?
No. Electrical panel upgrades must be performed by a licensed electrician and require permits and inspections. DIY work can be dangerous and illegal.