Originally Posted By: JTK
Originally Posted By: bmwjohn
It sounds like you have a 60 amp service. You really need to upgrade to a 200 amp service, the modern standard. This will require a new meter base...
Exactly. It's an old, undersized service with an integrated meter channel. I've never seen anything residential like that where I'm from.
Like said, the meter has to be pulled, I'm sure a new service entrance, new meter channel, new panel. Probably talking thousands to have a company do this for you.
I forget, is it free for the power company to upgrade the service drop? If it isn't free, why upgrade from 60A (unless if the drop itself has to be replaced)? I mean, 60Amp is getting the job done today. By all means, put in a 200A panel (as it sounds like this one needs to go, and badly).
My house has a 200A new panel (well it's probably 15 years old, came with the house), all new interior wiring, and still retains 60A service. I've thought a time or two of upgrading, but why? Everything runs just fine, as-is.
Finally, is this panel outdoors? I've never seen that. Only at campgrounds have I seen something like that.