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Panels & Service Upgrades in Durham, NC
Touchstone Electric’s Raleigh branch completed a comprehensive 200 amp service upgrade in Durham for homeowner Michael Herron on March 13, 2024. Led by technician Bob Scott, this project modernized the home’s electrical capacity, enhanced safety with advanced protection devices, and added EV charging convenience—all permitted and completed to current code standards.
Project overview
- 200 Amp Service Upgrade: Replacement of the main service equipment to safely accommodate higher electrical loads. Included permitting, a main breaker disconnect, whole-home surge protection, and a code-compliant grounding system with ground rods.
- Subpanel (midsized, outdoor): Installed to provide flexible expansion for new and future circuits, with capacity for up to 10 breakers as specified. Permitting for the subpanel was included.
- Level 2 EV Charging Circuit (50 amp): Added a dedicated 240V, 50-amp charging circuit on a double-pole breaker with appropriately sized wiring to the charging location for fast, reliable home EV charging.
- Safety Breakers: Upgraded four circuits with 15-amp GFCI/AFCI combination breakers to help protect against shock and arc faults.
- Home Safety Membership – Gold: Enrollment included scheduled checks of smoke/CO detectors, panel safety, code updates, inspection of loose/worn connections, and sealed connectors for ongoing peace of mind.
- Professional Coordination: We handled permitting and utility coordination. Power is briefly disconnected during service upgrades; upon request, Touchstone can provide a temporary generator for limited power usage.
Notes: The service upgrade does not include the service entrance cable or a new meter box (most homes already have a 200-amp rated meter base).
Why this Durham homeowner upgraded
- Capacity for today’s loads: A 200 amp service supports modern appliances, HVAC, and EV charging without overtaxing the system.
- Room to grow: The outdoor subpanel streamlines future additions like outdoor living circuits, workshops, or backup power interconnections.
- Safety and protection: Whole-home surge protection and GFCI/AFCI breakers add layered defense for sensitive electronics and wiring.
- Code compliance: All work was permitted and installed to current electrical codes in Durham, NC.
EV charging made simple
We installed a dedicated, 50-amp Level 2 charging circuit so the homeowner can plug in and charge quickly at home. The circuit is clearly labeled, properly sized, and protected at the panel, ensuring dependable performance for daily charging.
Code, permitting, and inspections
Our Raleigh team manages the entire process—from permit applications to coordination with the local authority having jurisdiction in Durham. We install to current NEC standards and local amendments, with professional workmanship and tidy, labeled panels for easier future service.
Local expertise you can trust
Touchstone Electric serves Durham, NC from our Raleigh branch, delivering reliable Electrical Panel Upgrades and Panels & Service Upgrades. Whether you need more capacity, better protection, or EV-ready power, our licensed electricians provide a clear scope, permitting support, and courteous service.
Customer feedback
After completion, Michael Herron praised our team and shared a Google review. Read the review here: View on Google
Considering a 200 amp upgrade in Durham?
- Frequent tripping breakers or limited space in your current panel
- Adding EV charging, heat pumps, or a workshop
- Renovations or new large appliances
- Desire for better surge and arc-fault protection
If any of these apply, our Raleigh branch can help plan the right-sized service upgrade, evaluate existing wiring, and integrate surge protection, GFCI/AFCI breakers, and subpanel capacity tailored to your home.