Project overview: 200 Amp Meter Base & Main Panel Upgrade in Matthews, NC

On October 11, 2023, our Charlotte branch completed a comprehensive service upgrade for homeowner McKensie Nance in Matthews, NC. The project replaced an outdated Zinsco meter-panel combo with a new, code-compliant 200 amp meter can and exterior main breaker panel. Touchstone Electric handled the entire process end-to-end, including permitting and coordination with the utility for a scheduled power drop and reconnection.

Replacement of obsolete Zinsco meter-panel combo
Installation of a new 200A meter can and outdoor main breaker panel
Grounding system upgrade with ground rods and proper bonding
Whole-home surge protection installed at the main panel
Cleanup of old metal conduit routed to the crawlspace and AC equipment
Service disconnect included, plus up to 25 ft of service entrance wire
Electrical permit, inspection, and utility coordination managed by our team

What we did

After a site assessment, our licensed electrician Danny Bishop safely de-energized the service in coordination with the utility. We removed the aging Zinsco combination equipment and mounted a modern 200 amp meter base and a dedicated exterior main breaker panel in its place. The new setup improves reliability, service capacity, and future readiness for additional loads.

Our team upgraded the grounding system using ground rods and proper bonding methods, then installed a whole-home surge protector to help safeguard appliances and sensitive electronics. We also cleaned up and removed old metal conduit that was routed to the crawlspace and toward the AC unit, leaving a neater, more serviceable installation.

With permits secured and inspections scheduled, the service was re-energized after final checks. The result is a clean, organized, and code-compliant 200 amp service that enhances safety and performance for the home.

Included with this 200 amp service upgrade

Service Upgrade – 200 amp: Includes ground rods, surge protector, service disconnect, and up to 25 ft of service wire for a neat, compliant installation.
Annual Home Safety Plan – GOLD: A preventive safety visit covering smoke/CO detector checks, panel safety review, code update guidance, electrical connection inspections, and more.

As with all panel and service upgrades, we obtained the electrical permit and coordinated the utility power drop to minimize downtime. A project deposit was collected prior to starting work in line with our scheduling process.

Code compliance and peace of mind

Touchstone Electric follows the National Electrical Code and local Matthews/Mecklenburg requirements on every service upgrade. Proper working clearances, secure terminations, verified bonding and grounding, and dedicated surge protection are built into our workflow so your home’s electrical system is safe, organized, and inspection-ready.

Your local panel and meter base specialists in Matthews

Whether you need a Zinsco replacement, a meter base change-out, or a full 200 amp panel and service upgrade in Matthews, NC, our Charlotte branch has you covered. We regularly manage permits, inspections, and utility scheduling, and we deliver clean, professional installations designed for long-term reliability.

Technician and completion details

Technician: Danny Bishop
Branch: Charlotte
Service area: Matthews, NC
Date completed: October 11, 2023

Customer feedback

McKensie Nance praised our team with a positive review of the service experience. We appreciate the feedback and the opportunity to upgrade another Matthews home with a safe, modern electrical system.