New Electrical box? (work, kitchen, service)

[MTAtech]

My electrician who is part of the remodeling team working on my kitchen says he needs to add more lines and the current elect box doesn't have enough breakers.

He wants $1,500 to install a new box (200 amps). Is that reasonable?

[TomMoser]

That sounds about right to me. KB?

[Kbinspections]

Yep that sounds right.

For my two cents, the upgrade should include a new service entrance cable from point of attachment to the meter pan, a new meter pan with a disconnect, a grounding rod and a new grounding cable to the water main with clamps on both sides of the water meter.

Ask him, if the service entrance cable will be fully encased in conduit or will the cable be exposed to the elements. (conduit is better).

Also ask him what type of panel.....I prefer Square D or Cutler-Hammer.

Finally, what size 200 amp box will you get? One with 20, 30 or 40 spaces for breakers. Get 30 or 40 spaces.

If he wants to charge alittle more for these items, IMO its well worth it.

Its also not bad idea to get a NYS fire underwriters cert for the upgrade......costs under $125.

Good luck!

[MTAtech]

Thanks for your help and quick response. Your answers will give me good questions to ask.