The electric service entrance to my old house is only 30Amp - wire #10?

Question

from a small meter to main box service fuse box. Can I replace the #10 wire with larger wire # 2 or # 4 for the time being so I can upgrade the service later? I am replacing the fuse box with a 100Amp service breaker box.

Answer 1

You need to get an upgraded meter, & probably new service running in from the grid before you can tie it in.
You can however get the new panel box all set & ready to go, then all you have to do is tie it to the new meter when it's installed.
Hope this helped, good luck!!

Answer 2

Don't do it. The 30 amp, #10 wires from the meter and service entrance will be overloaded and could set the side of your house on fire. In addition, you would be responsible for destroying the meter. The whole system, from the powerpole to your breaker box must be rated for 100 amps. If you are going to update, I suggest a 200 amp service.

Answer 3

You didn't say what the feed was to the main fuse panel.
Also, it depends on where you are. I hear that England is getting pretty tough on that stuff.

If you are going to the trouble of changing the feeds, then why not go ahead and replace the whole thing at once?

You may want to get a permit to do this. You could get a homeowners permit and then have it inspected. Also, what about the size of the meter? Will it handle the higher rated amp service?

The electric co. gets upset when you break the seal on their meter and could shut you off completely. Good luck

Answer 4

Yes you could, as long as you know what you are doing.
There is no way to switch off the power on the input side of your fuse box, unless you disconnect the meter, and that is sealed by the power co.

Answer 5

No you can't , you're working in reverse.
Work from the pole to the house, not inbetween, you could forget something and cost you later.
If this is a vacant building, the avenue doesn't matter....and in what stage your at...stay out of the water:)