How to Determine the Right Size Panel for Your Home

There are a few crucial factors that can help you determine the correct electrical panel size for your home, whether you’re upgrading your current panel or building a new construction house.

#1 Home Size

The size of your home is one of the first considerations when assessing panel size. Larger homes with more square footage (over 3,000 square feet) typically have greater energy requirements due to more rooms, appliances, and electronics.

#2 Number of Electrical Appliances

The more appliances and devices you have in your house, the more power you’ll need. Count the number of major appliances such as refrigerators, heating and cooling systems, water heaters, and electric stoves, as these consume more electricity than lights, washers, and dishwashers.

#3 Electrical Load Calculation

The amount of electricity you use in your home is a significant factor when determining panel size. Conduct a load calculation, which involves adding the wattage of all devices, appliances, and lighting fixtures you use or plan to use. This will give you a clearer picture of how much electrical power your panel should be rated for.

A basic formula to estimate minimum panel capacity is to take the total calculated watts and divide by 240 (standard residential voltage) to get the amps required. For example, if your estimated load is 24,000 watts, you’d calculate a 100-amp panel size (24,000/240 = 100). 

However, actual panel sizing often requires larger capacity due to safety factors, peak loads, and future expansion needs. It’s essential to consult a licensed electrician for accurate load calculations and panel sizing.

#4 Local Building Codes and Regulations

Local building codes may dictate minimum requirements for electrical panels based on your home’s size and usage. Consult your local building department or a licensed electrician to ensure compliance with these standards.

#5 Future Electrical Needs

If you’re planning to remodel, add rooms, or install additional appliances in the future, you may want to consider a panel that accommodates those future needs. Investing in a larger panel now can save you the hassle and cost of upgrading later.

#6 Other Important Considerations

If you’re upgrading your home’s electrical panel, it’s essential to:

• Check existing wiring. Ensure your existing wiring is compatible with a higher amperage panel. You might need to upgrade the wiring to ensure safety and efficiency.
• Involve a professional. A licensed electrician can help you determine your electrical needs, choose the right panel size, and ensure proper wiring and installation.

Schedule a Consultation With CoreTrade Electric

Take the guesswork out of choosing the right panel size for your home’s electrical system—contact CoreTrade Electric today to schedule a consultation with our licensed residential electricians. We help you calculate your electrical load, consider all appliances, and confirm local building code requirements to determine the proper panel size for your house.