Your electrical panel decides how much power your home can safely use. Many older homes in Hutto and across Williamson County still have a 100 amp panel, while most new homes are built with 200 amps. If you’re adding an EV charger, a new HVAC system or a home addition, you may need a 200 amp panel upgrade. This guide explains the difference and when to upgrade.
For help with your panel, see our residential electrical services.
What Does Panel Amperage Mean?
The amperage of your panel is the total electrical capacity available to your home at one time.
- 100 amp panel: common in older or smaller homes. It can handle basic lighting, appliances and a gas furnace, but it has little room to spare.
- 200 amp panel: the standard for most modern homes. It supports central AC, electric appliances, EV chargers and future additions.
Signs You’ve Outgrown a 100 Amp Panel
- Breakers trip often when several appliances run together. See why your circuit breaker keeps tripping.
- Lights dim or flicker when the AC or dryer starts.
- No space for new breakers, or there are tandem breakers squeezed in.
- You’re adding a big load, such as an EV charger, hot tub, workshop or electric range.
- The panel is old or damaged. Watch for the warning signs your electrical panel may be failing.
Why Hutto Homeowners Are Upgrading
Homes in Central Texas use more power than they used to:
- Long, hot summers mean heavy AC use
- Electric vehicles need a dedicated 240V circuit. Read our guide to home EV charger installation in Hutto and Round Rock.
- Generators and backup power need a panel that can handle the connection. See generator inlet vs. transfer switch.
What a 200 Amp Panel Upgrade Involves
A panel upgrade is not a DIY job. It usually includes:
- A load calculation to confirm what your home needs
- A permit from your city
- Coordination with the utility to disconnect and reconnect power
- Replacing the panel, and often the meter base and service wires
- A city inspection before the job is complete
Most upgrades are done in a day, with power off for part of it.
How Much Does a Panel Upgrade Cost?
The cost depends on whether the service wires and meter also need upgrading, plus permits and the age of your wiring. For local pricing details, read how much it costs to replace an electrical panel in Hutto, Texas.
Is 200 Amps Always Necessary?
Not always. A smaller home with gas appliances and no plans for an EV may be fine on 100 amps. A load calculation from a licensed electrician tells you for sure, so you don’t pay for an upgrade you don’t need.
Talk to a Licensed Electrician in Hutto
Mynar Electric is a licensed electrician based in Hutto, serving homes across Williamson and Travis Counties. Learn more about our work as an electrician in Hutto, TX, or contact us to request an estimate.
Call (817) 597-0589
FAQs
Can I add an EV charger on a 100 amp panel? Sometimes, but it is often tight. A load calculation shows whether there’s enough capacity or whether you need an upgrade or a load management device.
How long does a panel upgrade take? Most residential upgrades are completed in one day, plus the city inspection.
Do I need a permit to upgrade my electrical panel? Yes. Panel upgrades require a permit and an inspection.
