What Is a Heavy-Up? The DMV Term for an Electrical Service Upgrade, Explained
Heavy-up is what electricians around Washington, DC call an electrical service upgrade. Learn what a heavy-up includes,...
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Premium Electrical Service
Electrical Service Upgrades in Fairfax, VA & Northern Virginia
Upgrade your home's electrical service from the utility meter to the main panel.
AJ Long Electric evaluates and performs residential electrical service upgrades in Northern Virginia. Scope, capacity, meter and service equipment, utility coordination, permit path, outage sequence, and timeline are determined from the address, serving utility, AHJ requirements, load calculation, and approved design.
30 Years
Licensed & Insured
5-Year Warranty
John Long, Master Electrician
Upfront Pricing
1,400+ Reviews
Overview
Why upgrade your electrical service?
Your electrical service is the backbone of your home's power system, from the serving utility's connection through the meter equipment, service conductors, disconnect, and main panel. When a load calculation and equipment review show that the existing service cannot support planned loads, the project may require a complete service upgrade rather than only a panel replacement. AJ Long Electric documents the service configuration, equipment condition, utility ownership boundary, grounding and bonding, conductor route, and requested capacity before defining the scope. Meter work, disconnect and reconnect steps, transformer or service-lateral changes, permit review, inspection sequence, and outage timing depend on the address, serving utility, authority having jurisdiction, and approved design. The written proposal identifies those dependencies and distinguishes confirmed electrical work from utility-owned work and conditions that remain subject to review.
Increased Capacity
Support modern electrical demands including EV chargers, heat pumps, and high-draw appliances without overloading.
Safety
Replace aging service components that may be deteriorated, undersized, or no longer meeting safety standards.
Utility Coordination
Required meter, disconnect, reconnect, and capacity steps are confirmed with the utility serving the address.
Complete Solution
Service entrance cables, meter base, panel, and grounding are all upgraded as an integrated project.
Future Ready
Proper service sizing accommodates future additions, EV chargers, and electrification of heating and cooking.
Signs You Need This
Your home has 100-amp or 60-amp electrical service
You want to install an EV charger but lack panel capacity
Your service entrance cable is old, damaged, or undersized
The meter base is rusted, damaged, or outdated
The serving utility or an inspection has identified an issue with the service connection
You are adding a major addition that exceeds current service capacity
You are electrifying your home (heat pump, electric range, EV charger) and need more capacity
Your panel is full and you cannot add more circuits without increased service
Service Areas
Serving Fairfax, Vienna, McLean, Oakton, Burke, Annandale, Falls Church, Arlington & Alexandria.
Local Expertise
Northern Virginia Service Context
Serving the DMV Region
Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Loudoun & Prince William Counties
Northern Virginia includes multiple utilities and authorities having jurisdiction, and service ownership, meter requirements, disconnect procedures, permit review, and inspection sequencing depend on the property address. Older homes may have 60-amp or 100-amp service, while EV charging, heat pumps, electric cooking, additions, and other planned loads can change the load calculation. A service upgrade recommendation begins with the existing equipment and documented loads, not a region-wide assumption about required capacity or utility process.
Licensed in Virginia
John Long, Master Electrician
Priority Scheduling
Local Since 1996
Real Projects
Electrical Service Upgrades Case Studies
See how we have helped homeowners across Northern Virginia with their electrical service upgrades needs.
60-Amp to 200-Amp Service Upgrade in Pre-War Colonial
colonialColonial home in Falls Church, Fairfax County
Challenge
A 1948 colonial still had its original 60-amp service with a fuse box and aging service-entrance components. The homeowner wanted to add central air conditioning and a Level 2 EV charger, so the planned loads and existing service required a documented capacity review.
Solution
The defined scope replaced the applicable service-entrance equipment, meter equipment, main panel, and grounding and bonding components, with reconnection coordinated through the utility serving the address.
Result
The home now has modern 200-amp service with ample capacity for the new central AC, EV charger, and future additions. The homeowner's insurance premium dropped after the fuse box was eliminated, and the property value increased with the modernized electrical system.
Overhead to Underground Service Conversion
townhomeTownhome community in Centreville, Loudoun County
Challenge
A townhome community was converting from overhead to underground utility service as part of a neighborhood improvement project. Each unit required address-specific coordination among the HOA, general contractor, serving utility, and local authority before an individual capacity change could be defined.
Solution
The approved scope documented the meter equipment, service conductors, underground termination, panel work, trenching boundary, and coordination responsibilities for the property.
Result
The overhead service lines and weatherhead were eliminated, improving the unit's appearance and eliminating storm damage risk to the service entrance. The upgraded 200-amp service provides capacity for the homeowner's EV charger and planned kitchen renovation.
Storm-Damaged Service Entrance Emergency Replacement
split-levelSplit-level home in Springfield, Prince William County
Challenge
A tree branch damaged the weatherhead, service conductors, and meter equipment during an ice storm. The serving utility made the utility-owned connection safe while the property-side damage, capacity, emergency permit path, and reconnection sequence were evaluated.
Solution
The approved repair scope identified the damaged service components, required capacity, grounding and bonding work, utility boundary, emergency permit steps, and inspection sequence before replacement work began.
Result
Restoration remained dependent on safe field completion, required inspection or authorization, serving-utility availability, corrections, and successful energization rather than a promised turnaround.
200-Amp to 400-Amp Service for Full Home Electrification
estateEstate property in Leesburg, Arlington County
Challenge
The homeowners were fully electrifying their 6,000 sq ft estate, replacing a propane furnace with dual heat pumps, converting a gas range to induction, adding three EV chargers for their vehicle fleet, and building a heated pool with an electric heat pump. A detailed load calculation showed their 200-amp service would be approximately 40% over capacity with all planned additions.
Solution
The property-specific design used utility-accepted metering and distribution equipment, with transformer and service-lateral requirements confirmed by the utility serving the address. Conductor sizing, panel arrangement, grounding and bonding, and simultaneous-load assumptions followed the approved load calculation.
Result
Commissioning verified the approved service and panel configuration against the documented loads; future additions remain subject to updated load calculations and equipment ratings.
Permits & Compliance
Permit & Jurisdiction Guide
Permit requirements for electrical service upgrades vary by county. We handle the entire permitting process for you.
Fairfax County
Permit RequiredPermit Process
Fairfax County controls the current application, documentation, review, correction, and inspection process for service upgrades. Required load calculations, site information, and utility documents depend on the proposed work. The county and serving utility control their respective review and scheduling timelines, which must be confirmed for the address.
Inspection Notes
Fairfax inspectors perform a thorough review of the service entrance, meter base, panel, and grounding system. They verify conductor sizing matches the service rating, the meter base is properly sealed and grounded, and the grounding electrode system meets NEC 250 requirements.
Special Requirements
Load calculation documentation must be available at inspection
Service entrance cables must be properly secured with approved straps at required intervals
Loudoun County
Permit RequiredPermit Process
Loudoun County controls the current permit, plan-review, correction, and inspection process. Underground service work may require additional site or right-of-way information. Review timing and any emergency pathway must be confirmed with the county for the exact scope.
Inspection Notes
Loudoun inspectors verify the complete service entrance from the weatherhead or underground lateral to the main panel. They check conductor sizing, meter base installation, grounding electrode system, and proper panel installation.
Special Requirements
Underground service laterals must meet minimum burial depth of 24 inches per NEC
HOA approval may be required for changes to exterior service equipment appearance
Prince William County
Permit RequiredPermit Process
Prince William County controls the current permit, emergency-repair, review, correction, and inspection process for service upgrades. Required documentation and timing depend on the condition of the property and defined scope and must be confirmed with Development Services.
Inspection Notes
Prince William inspectors review the permitted service components, which may include the meter equipment, weatherhead, service conductors, grounding and bonding, disconnect, and main panel. Utility disconnect and inspection sequencing are confirmed for the address.
Special Requirements
Confirm the current emergency-repair process directly with Development Services when storm damage is involved
Service mast and conductor clearances must meet the adopted code and serving-utility requirements
Arlington County
Permit RequiredPermit Process
Arlington County controls the current permit, plan-review, correction, and inspection process. Underground conversions and work affecting public space may require additional review. Timing is set by the county, utility, and project status and must be confirmed for the address.
Inspection Notes
Arlington inspectors are detail-oriented with service entrance installations, checking conductor sizing, proper support and protection, meter base installation, and grounding. They pay particular attention to clearances from windows, doors, and walkways for overhead service entrances.
Special Requirements
Overhead service clearances must meet NEC 230.24 minimums over driveways and walkways
Underground conversions require coordination with county right-of-way if crossing public property
Pricing Options
Electrical Service Upgrades Pricing Tiers
Transparent options organized by project scope. Your approved estimate defines the included work.
Standard
$3,500-$7,500
100-amp to 200-amp service upgrade with all essential components for homes needing increased capacity.
- Upgrade from 100A to 200A service
- New meter base and weatherhead
- 200-amp main panel installation
- Required serving-utility coordination included
Most Selected
Premium
$3,500-$7,500
A 200-amp service scope with property-specific entrance, grounding, access, and coordination requirements documented in the proposal.
- 100A to 200A or overhead-to-underground conversion
- New meter base, service entrance cables, and panel
- Complete grounding electrode system upgrade
- All permits and inspections included
- Whole-house surge protection
Complete
Quoted per project
400-amp service upgrade for high-demand homes with extensive electrical loads and multiple panel configurations.
- 200A to 400A service with CT metering
- Dual 200-amp main panel installation
- Serving-utility transformer or capacity coordination when required
- Underground service lateral upgrades
- Comprehensive grounding electrode system
- Subpanel feeds to detached structures
Prices may vary based on the specific requirements of your project, the condition of existing electrical systems, and your home's unique characteristics. Contact us to request a property-specific estimate.
By Home Type
Electrical Service Upgrades by Housing Type
Different home styles have unique electrical characteristics. Select your housing type to see specific considerations.
Colonial Homes
Common Issues
Original 100-amp or 60-amp service from 1950s-1970s construction is grossly undersized for modern demands
Service entrance cables routed through interior walls may contain deteriorated cloth insulation
Meter base and weatherhead mounted on aging wood siding may have moisture damage behind the equipment
Special Considerations
Colonial homes in Falls Church, McLean, and Vienna can have aging service components and conductors routed through finished interior walls. Replacement paths, finish boundaries, utility ownership, outage steps, and inspection sequencing must be documented for the property.
How It Works
Our Electrical Service Upgrades Process
We follow a proven process to ensure your project is completed safely, on time, and to your complete satisfaction.
01
Service Assessment
We evaluate your existing service size, condition, and capacity, and discuss your current and future power needs.
02
Load Calculation
We perform a detailed load calculation to determine the correct service size for your home's requirements.
03
Detailed Proposal
You receive a comprehensive quote covering all components: service entrance, meter base, panel, grounding, permits.
04
Permit & Utility Coordination
We confirm the address-specific permit path and coordinate required meter or capacity work with the serving utility.
05
Service Installation
We install the new service entrance cables, meter base, main panel, and grounding electrode system.
06
Utility Reconnection
When utility action is required, the serving utility follows its approved reconnection and energization process.
07
Inspection & Final Testing
We schedule the county inspection, test all circuits, and verify proper operation of the complete system.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about our electrical service upgrades services.
What is the difference between a service upgrade and a panel upgrade?
A panel upgrade replaces just the electrical panel (breaker box) inside your home. A service upgrade encompasses the entire power delivery system from the utility connection to the panel, including service entrance cables, meter base, weatherhead, and main panel. A service upgrade is needed when you are increasing your total amperage capacity.
How much does a service upgrade cost in Northern Virginia?
A 100A to 200A service upgrade in the DC metro area typically costs $3,500-$7,500. A 200A to 400A upgrade is quoted per project based on the distance from meter to panel, whether service is underground or overhead, and specific utility requirements. We provide detailed quotes after a site assessment.
How long does a service upgrade take?
Field duration and outage time depend on the approved scope, service configuration, access, utility work, inspection sequence, equipment availability, and corrections. The written project plan identifies the expected work stages after the serving utility and authority requirements are confirmed.
Does the serving utility need to be involved in my service upgrade?
That depends on the address, service configuration, ownership boundary, and approved scope. Meter work, disconnect and reconnect steps, service-lateral changes, or transformer review may require the serving utility. We confirm the applicable coordination path before scheduling field work.
What size service do I need for my home?
Most modern homes require at least 200-amp service. Large homes with multiple high-draw systems (EV chargers, heat pumps, electric cooking, pool equipment) may need 400-amp service. We perform a detailed load calculation based on your current and anticipated electrical needs to determine the right service size.
Can I upgrade from overhead to underground service?
Yes, we can convert overhead service to underground as part of a service upgrade. Underground service eliminates the weatherhead and exposed service entrance cables, improving appearance and reducing storm damage risk. Underground conversion costs more due to trenching but is increasingly popular in Northern Virginia.
Will a service upgrade disrupt my power for days?
A service upgrade requires a planned outage for portions of the work. Duration and restoration timing depend on the address, utility and inspection sequence, field conditions, approved corrections, and successful energization; the proposal documents the project-specific plan without promising same-day restoration.
Does my grounding system need updating during a service upgrade?
Often, yes. Older grounding systems may not meet current NEC 250 requirements. During a service upgrade, we verify your grounding electrode system (ground rods, water pipe bonding, etc.) and upgrade it as needed. Proper grounding is critical for safety and is inspected during the final permit inspection.
Pricing
What Affects the Cost?
Every home is different. Here are the factors that influence pricing for electrical service upgrades services.
Current service size and target upgrade size (100A to 200A, 200A to 400A)
Overhead vs underground service entrance
Distance from utility connection to main panel
Meter base condition and replacement needs
Grounding electrode system upgrades required
Number of circuits to transfer to new panel
Serving-utility fees or utility-owned work required for the approved capacity change
Permit costs in your jurisdiction
Typical Timeline
Defined after utility, AHJ, equipment, access, and outage requirements are confirmed
Typical Price Range
$3,500-$7,500 (200A); 400A quoted per project
Warranty & Guarantee
Service-upgrade proposals identify the installation scope, required permits and inspections, and any manufacturer warranty terms that apply to supplied equipment. The authority having jurisdiction independently determines inspection approval.
Brands & Certifications
Square D by Schneider ElectricSiemensEatonMilbank (meter bases)Meter and service equipment accepted by the serving utilityLicensed Virginia Electrician
Maintenance Tips
Visually inspect your meter base and service entrance cables annually for signs of damage, corrosion, or weathering
Maintain 36 inches of clear access in front of your main panel at all times per NEC requirements
Keep vegetation trimmed away from overhead service entrance cables and weatherheads
Have your grounding electrode system checked every 5 years to ensure connections are tight and ground rods are intact
Report utility-owned equipment concerns to the utility serving the address
Safety Warnings
•Service entrance cables carry lethal voltages directly from the utility and remain energized even when the main breaker is off
•Only licensed electricians should work on service entrance equipment -- contact with service conductors can be instantly fatal
•A damaged or corroded meter base can cause arcing and fire at the service entrance
•Never bypass or modify the meter or meter base -- this is illegal and extremely dangerous
Code Requirements
•Service entrance conductors must be sized per NEC 310 ampacity tables for the service rating
•Grounding electrode systems must meet NEC 250 requirements including proper ground rod installation
•Meter and service equipment must meet the serving utility's current requirements and the adopted electrical code
•Service disconnects must be accessible and clearly marked per NEC 230.70
At a Glance
Electrical Service Upgrades Specs & Cost
Typical pricing, timeline, and what's included for electrical service upgrades in Northern Virginia.
| Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Typical price range | $3,500-$7,500 (200A); 400A quoted per project |
| Typical timeline | Defined after utility, AHJ, equipment, access, and outage requirements are confirmed |
| Permits & code | Performed to applicable code requirements: Service entrance conductors must be sized per NEC 310 ampacity tables for the service rating; Grounding electrode systems must meet NEC 250 requirements including proper ground rod installation; Meter and service equipment must meet the serving utility's current requirements and the adopted electrical code; Service disconnects must be accessible and clearly marked per NEC 230.70 |
| Warranty | Service-upgrade proposals identify the installation scope, required permits and inspections, and any manufacturer warranty terms that apply to supplied equipment. The authority having jurisdiction independently determines inspection approval. |
| Brands & certifications | Square D by Schneider Electric, Siemens, Eaton, Milbank (meter bases), Meter and service equipment accepted by the serving utility, Licensed Virginia Electrician |
Related Services
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Explore other electrical services that complement electrical service upgrades.
Panel Replacements & Upgrades
Property-specific electrical panel replacement and service-capacity planning, with load calculations, utility coordination, labeling, and permit-path confirmation.
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EV Charger Installation
Property-specific Level 2 EV charger installation with panel-capacity review, a dedicated circuit, equipment connection, testing, and permit-path confirmation.
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Dedicated Circuits
Property-specific branch-circuit installation for appliances, workshops, offices, and specialty equipment, sized to the connected load and existing panel.
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Portable Generators & Battery Backup
Electrical hookups for customer-owned or dealer-supplied portable generators and battery equipment, including compatible transfer equipment and inlet connections.
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Our Promise
Why Choose AJ Long Electric for Electrical Service Upgrades
AJ Long Electric documents the existing service, utility ownership boundary, load calculation, meter and panel equipment, conductor route, grounding and bonding, and planned loads before proposing a service upgrade. The written scope identifies AJLE work, serving-utility work, AHJ requirements, known access conditions, and open dependencies so scheduling is based on the address and approved design.
Licensed
Virginia Licensed Electricians
Insured
Fully Bonded & Insured
30 Years
Serving Northern Virginia
5-Year Warranty
On All Workmanship
Service Areas
Electrical Service Upgrades Across Northern Virginia
We proudly provide electrical service upgrades services across Northern Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland. Click on your area to learn more.
Common Problems
Common Electrical Problems
Learn about common electrical issues and when to call a professional.
Urgent
Partial Power Loss
Partial power loss — some outlets dead, or 240V loads weak — usually means a broken neutral, a hidden breaker trip, or a single-leg service failure. A broken neutral in particular is dangerous: it lets line voltage swing far above or below 120V, damaging every electronic device in the affected part of the home within seconds.
Learn MoreUrgent
Storm Power Loss
Storm-related power loss in Northern Virginia is usually one of three things: a Dominion Energy grid event (out of your control, fixed by the utility); damage to your service entrance (the wires + mast + meter base, which we coordinate with Dominion to repair); or surge damage to your panel and downstream devices (which we repair without utility involvement). The first step is to check the Dominion outage map; the second is to call us if there's visible damage at your home.
Learn MoreGuides
Related Guides
Expert electrical guides to help you make informed decisions.
Advanced
Complete Guide to Electrical Panel Upgrades
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Read Authoritative Sources
- NFPA 70: National Electrical Code (NEC)The NEC is the foundational safety standard for electrical wiring and installation in the U.S.
- Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI)Nonprofit dedicated to promoting electrical safety in the home and workplace.
- Fairfax County — Electrical PermitsLocal permitting requirements for electrical work in Fairfax County, VA.