Call 855-502-2244Multi-Unit Meter Bank and 200A Panel Upgrade in Hickory, NC
Touchstone Electric completed a code-compliant service upgrade for a multi-unit property in Hickory, NC. This project was handled by our Charlotte team out of the Matthews branch and led on-site by technician Patrick Burke. Completed on January 31, 2025, the scope focused on expanding capacity, modernizing metering, and improving safety for a downstairs unit and additional residences served by the new meter bank.
Project Overview
Our customer, Delia Denise Couvillon, needed a reliable, permitted solution to support multiple units and bring aging equipment up to current electrical standards. We installed a new four-position meter bank, upgraded the main distribution for the downstairs unit to a 200-amp copper panel, added a properly sized riser with a weatherhead, installed new grounding, and completed a targeted partial rewire inside the home.
What We Installed
- 4-gang meter bank: Consolidated, utility-ready metering for a multi-unit property to simplify management and improve service reliability.
- New feeders to three units: Ran 4-wire SER feeder cables to ensure correct neutral and ground separation and dependable power distribution.
- 200A copper indoor main panel (downstairs unit): Removed the outdated panel and installed a modern copper panel, fully labeled, bonded, and grounded to today’s standards.
- Service riser with weatherhead: Installed IMC conduit, roof boot, and service conductors from meter to weatherhead for a durable, code-compliant service entrance.
- Grounding system upgrade: Drove new ground rods and ran the grounding electrode conductor to the main service equipment for a safer fault path and improved surge performance.
- Partial rewire: Carefully disconnected, fished, and reconnected select circuits, devices, switches, and receptacles to replace outdated wiring and meet current code expectations.
All work was permitted and coordinated for required inspections in Hickory, ensuring a smooth process from start to finish.
Why This Upgrade Matters
- Capacity for today’s loads: A 200A main panel and dedicated feeders reduce overload risk and support modern appliances and HVAC systems.
- Cleaner multi-unit management: A single 4-gang meter bank streamlines utility coordination and future maintenance.
- Improved safety: Proper grounding, bonding, and 4-wire feeders help mitigate shock hazards and nuisance issues caused by shared neutrals.
- Future-ready: Clear labeling and organized distribution make future repairs or expansions faster and more cost-effective.
Code, Permitting, and Inspection
Our Panels & Service Upgrades are completed to current NEC requirements and local Hickory and Catawba County standards. For this project we:
- Secured permits and coordinated inspections for a compliant installation.
- Verified correct bonding and grounding at the service equipment.
- Labeled circuits and equipment for clarity and ongoing maintenance.
As code adoption evolves, we also advise customers about potential requirements such as AFCI and GFCI protections where applicable, ensuring the installation remains safe and compliant.
Serving Hickory, NC
Whether you manage a multi-unit property or own a single-family home, Touchstone Electric provides dependable Panels & Service Upgrades and Meter Base & Service Replacement throughout Hickory, NC. Our Charlotte team, based in Matthews, is experienced with utility coordination, multi-meter setups, risers, grounding, and panel modernizations for both occupied homes and investment properties.
Need a Similar Upgrade?
If you are planning a meter bank installation, panel change, or partial rewire in Hickory, we can help you evaluate load needs, plan the upgrade, pull the necessary permits, and coordinate inspection—start to finish. Contact Touchstone Electric to schedule an assessment and get a safe, code-compliant solution tailored to your property.