Starting a New Service Installation is one of the most critical and complex electrical upgrades a property owner can undertake. Whether you’re building a new home, expanding a commercial property, or modernizing an outdated electrical system, installing new service involves more than just connecting a few wires—it’s about ensuring long-term safety, compliance, and the capacity to handle present and future electrical loads.
For many property owners, this process can feel overwhelming. Questions about permits, load calculations, trenching, utility company coordination, and local code compliance often arise. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to help you understand what’s involved in a New Service Installation, what to expect at each stage, and how to ensure the process goes smoothly from start to finish.
By working with experienced professionals like Tom’s Electric, you not only guarantee code-compliant and efficient service installation but also benefit from years of hands-on experience and technical precision.
Understanding the Purpose of a New Service Installation
A New Service Installation refers to the complete setup of electrical service to a property that does not currently have power. This typically involves the installation of a service entrance, meter socket, main breaker panel, grounding system, and coordination with the utility provider for final connection.
Unlike a panel upgrade, which modifies an existing electrical system, a new service requires full integration from scratch—including trenching for underground service lines or configuring risers for overhead service drops.
The goal is to provide your property with a safe and sufficient electrical supply that meets both current needs and anticipated future demands.
Initial Planning and Load Calculation
Before any physical work begins, a professional electrician will conduct a load calculation to determine how much electrical capacity your home or building requires. This is especially important for large homes, multi-unit buildings, or businesses with high electrical demands (e.g., restaurants, offices, manufacturing facilities).
This calculation takes into account:
- Square footage of the structure
- Heating and cooling systems
- Major appliances
- Lighting and receptacle loads
- Electric vehicle chargers or solar equipment
Once calculated, this helps determine whether your property needs a 100-amp, 200-amp, or larger service. Load calculation is not just a technical step—it’s also required by the National Electrical Code (NEC) for permitting and inspection purposes.
Permits and Utility Company Coordination
A New Service Installation cannot proceed without proper permitting. Your licensed electrician will usually handle the permit application with the local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ), including submitting site plans, load calculations, and proposed installation details.
Simultaneously, coordination with the utility company is essential. The utility provider must approve the location of the meter socket and may schedule site inspections before and after installation. Utility companies are also responsible for making the final power connection once your electrician completes the setup and passes inspection.
Expect some waiting time during this phase, depending on the utility’s scheduling.
Installation of the Service Entrance and Meter Equipment
The service entrance includes the components that bring power from the utility into your home or building. This phase typically involves:
- Meter socket installation: This houses the utility meter that tracks your electricity usage. Placement must meet local and utility requirements for height, clearance, and accessibility.
- Service conduit or riser: Used for protecting conductors, whether the service is overhead or underground.
- Main breaker panel: Installed inside the property to distribute power to various circuits. It also includes a main disconnect.
- Grounding system: Ground rods and bonding ensure safe discharge of electrical faults and help stabilize voltage during surges.
Professionals follow NEC standards and local codes to ensure proper sizing, bonding, and grounding, which are crucial for both performance and safety.
Inspections and Compliance Checks
After installation, your electrical contractor will request an inspection by the AHJ. Inspectors will verify that all components have been installed per code and that safety measures such as bonding, grounding, and panel configurations are correct.
If everything passes inspection, a green tag or approval certificate is issued, authorizing the utility company to energize the service. Until this step is completed, power cannot legally or safely be supplied to the property.
Final Utility Connection and System Testing
Once approved, the utility company will schedule a crew to connect the property to the power grid. This could involve installing a transformer, connecting service wires, or finalizing underground connections.
After energization, your electrician will test the main panel, check voltage levels, and confirm that circuits are properly balanced and functioning. This ensures that your new electrical service is fully operational and safe.
At this point, you can begin using your electrical system for general operations, equipment installation, and daily use.
Future-Proofing Your Electrical Service
Installing a new electrical service offers a unique opportunity to plan ahead. Homeowners and business owners often take this time to add:
- Sub-panels for garages, shops, or additions
- EV charging stations
- Surge protection systems
- Generator interlock kits or transfer switches
- Smart home or energy monitoring systems
By discussing your future needs with a qualified electrician, you can avoid the cost and hassle of upgrades later.
Conclusion
Starting a New Service Installation is a major but necessary undertaking for any property that requires a reliable electrical system. From load calculations and permits to installation and final inspection, every step must be handled with precision and professional knowledge. When done right, it results in a safe, code-compliant system capable of handling both current and future electrical demands.
Choosing an experienced provider like Tom’s Electric ensures you receive expert service tailored to your project’s specific needs. With attention to detail, knowledge of NEC codes, and strong relationships with local utilities, their team helps simplify the complex process of New Service Installation from start to finish.
Whether you’re building from the ground up or modernizing an outdated property, understanding this process empowers you to make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes. With the right preparation and the right professionals, your new electrical service will be a reliable foundation for decades to come
FAQs
Do I need a licensed electrician for a new service installation?
Yes, always. Service installation involves high voltage and must comply with building codes and utility regulations. A licensed electrician ensures safe, legal, and reliable installation.
How long does a new service installation take?
The installation itself may take 1 to 3 days, but including permitting, inspections, and utility scheduling, the process can take 1 to 3 weeks.
Can I live in the property during installation?
If there’s no power yet, most properties remain uninhabitable until the final connection. Your electrician will advise based on progress and project scope.
What size service do I need for my home?
Most modern homes require a minimum of 200 amps to support central AC, electric ovens, dryers, and other major appliances. Load calculations will determine the exact size needed.
