A 150 amp service gives enough power for mid-sized homes. A 200 amp service can handle more electrical loads and modern appliances.
This difference matters for Houston homeowners because homes here push electrical systems hard. Heat drives HVAC usage. EV chargers are common. Kitchen upgrades demand more power.
This guide explains how both service sizes work, when 150 amps is enough, when 200 amps makes sense, what costs to expect, and how to choose the right option safely.
Quick Takeaways
• 150 amp service fits smaller or older homes with average electrical needs.
• 200 amp service offers more capacity, supports large appliances, and future-proofs your home.
• Choose 200 amps if you run multiple HVAC units, EV chargers, electric ranges, or plan future upgrades.
• Houston homes built after 2000 often benefit from 200 amp service due to heat load and HVAC demand.
• Upgrading improves safety and reduces overload risks in older electrical systems.
• Right Touch Electrical can evaluate your panel and calculate your exact load needs.
What Is Electrical Service Size?
Electrical service size sets the total amount of power your home can use at once. It controls how many appliances you can run without tripping breakers or stressing the system.
How Service Amps Work
Amperage limits your total electrical capacity. Larger loads need more amps to run safely. Modern appliances use more power than older ones, and homes today have more devices than ever.
Why Panel Size Matters in Houston
Houston homes use heavy HVAC systems because of long, hot summers. Older wiring struggles under that load.
EV chargers and smart home tech add even more pressure. A larger panel helps keep everything stable.
150 Amp Service: What It Supports
A 150 amp electric service works well for moderate needs. Many older homes in Houston still use 150 amps without issues.
Typical Features of 150 Amp Service
A 150 amp panel supports standard appliances, an average number of circuits, and one HVAC system. It fits mid-sized homes with predictable electrical use.
When 150 Amps Is Enough
A home under 2,000 square feet usually fits this size. One HVAC unit, simple kitchen appliances, and no EV charger keep the load manageable. If you do not plan major upgrades, 150 amps can work for years.
Signs 150 Amps Is Too Small
- Breakers trip when appliances run
- Lights dim when AC kicks on
- Running space heaters causes overload
- Hot or buzzing panel
These signs point to an electric service that is stretched too far.
200 Amp Service: What It Supports
A 200 amp service gives your home more room to grow. It supports higher loads and heavier appliances.
Key Benefits of 200 Amp Service
- Higher load capacity
- Supports modern, high-demand appliances
- Safer distribution and reduced overload
- Long-term upgrade flexibility
You get more space in the panel, which makes future improvements easier.
When 200 Amps Is the Better Choice
You should consider 200 amps if you own or plan to add:
- EV charger
- Tankless electric water heater
- Pool equipment
- Outdoor kitchen
- Second HVAC system
- Extra square footage
- Any major upgrades in the next few years
Why Many Houston Homes Need 200 Amps
Houston homes often have two AC units. New construction includes more appliances that run at the same time. Builders expect future upgrades, so they lean toward 200 amps for extra capacity.
Key Differences Between 150 and 200 Amp Service
The gap between these service sizes is simple. One offers average capacity. The other supports heavier loads and modern equipment.
Capacity & Load Handling
A 200 amp panel handles larger combined loads, which keeps the system more stable.
Appliance Compatibility
- 150 amps supports basic, moderate appliances
- 200 amps supports high-demand systems, tankless heaters, EV chargers
Home Size & Age Considerations
Older homes with fewer upgrades may fit 150 amps. Newer homes and renovated homes push toward 200 amps.
Safety & Overload Reduction
A 200 amp panel gives you more headroom, which lowers the chance of overheating or tripped breakers.
Long-Term Value
A 200 amp panel adds flexibility. It can support future loads without another upgrade.
Do You Need to Upgrade From 150 to 200 Amps?
Some homes work fine at 150 amps. Others outgrow it. A quick look at your day-to-day electrical use gives clues.
How to Know Your Current Panel Is Undersized
- Breakers frequently tripping
- Limited open spaces in panel
- Devices overheating
- Burning smell or humming
Simple Load Calculation Overview
Electricians calculate total load using standardized formulas that follow NEC codes. This helps determine if 150 amps is enough or if 200 amps is safer.
Houston-Specific Situations That Push You Toward 200 Amps
Heavy HVAC systems, electric heat pumps, and older neighborhoods with stressed wiring all point toward 200 amps. Houston’s heat alone can strain a smaller service.
Costs and Installation Factors
Panel upgrades vary based on what your home needs. Small differences add up.
Pricing depends on panel type, wiring condition, meter base, grounding, and utility requirements. Every home is different, so the final number changes with each job.
Here’s what affects final price of a panel upgrade:
- Panel brand
- Existing wiring condition
- Required permits
- Whether utility upgrades are needed
How Right Touch Electrical Handles Panel Upgrades
We make the upgrade simple, clear, and safe from start to finish.
We perform a full load calculation, inspect the panel, and check all code requirements before recommending anything.
You get transparent pricing, same-day or next-day scheduling, and a clean work environment. We explain every step so you know exactly what is happening.
FAQ: 150 vs 200 Amp Service
Is 150 amps enough for most homes?
Yes, if the load is moderate and no major upgrades are planned.
Do I need 200 amp service for an EV charger?
Most EV chargers perform better on a 200 amp panel.
Will 200 amps lower my electric bill?
No. It improves capacity, not usage.
Does upgrading require rewiring the whole house?
Not always. Many upgrades replace the panel only.
How long does a panel upgrade take?
Most upgrades finish in one day.
Can I add a subpanel instead of upgrading?
Sometimes. It depends on your total load.
What size do Houston homes typically use?
Newer homes lean toward 200 amps.
Does my utility company need to be involved?
Yes, utilities confirm the service drop and meter setup.
Get Your Panel Evaluated Today
Need help choosing between 150 and 200 amp service? Right Touch Electrical delivers safe, code-compliant, and reliable panel upgrades throughout Houston, TX.
Contact us today and experience “quality with a master’s touch.”
