I think it's an issue of space for more circuits in the box more than anything.
How often are all the circuits going to be loaded to the max at the same point in time anyways?
I think it's an issue of space for more circuits in the box more than anything.
How often are all the circuits going to be loaded to the max at the same point in time anyways?
How many times have you heard of a main breaker actually tripping?
....
IMO unless you have a dual zone forced air HVAC system and more than 3 bedrooms 100 amps is sufficient.
When it comes to new gadgets, it's true that the average person these days has a different set of gadgets than we had 20 years ago but most of them use much less power.
We went from tube TV's and big stereo systems that gave off enough heat to warm half of the house to pocket sized MP3 players and LED screens that collectively use a fraction of what the floor model cabinet TV used to consume.
In the 80's we used 100 watt light bulbs in every single fixture. Now all 30 CFL's throughout my house use less energy than the 4 incandescent bulbs that were in my kitchen.
Soon as you said electric stove & dryer I flag it as not enough. 200 amp service tends to be the most common but a tad over kill. Either way if you're goingto upgrade mind as well.
Around here we are about $2 k for panel, grounds & outside lines. The utility company hands line to the house.
I have a 60 amp circuit in my house. Electric stove, dryer and the normal gadgets. Small house 1200 sq ft. Never had a problem. I've been here for 22 years and never once blew the main.
I got ya beat.......... I'm on a 50 with 1800 ft².