Wondering if your electrical panel can handle an EV charger, a hot tub, or a new heat pump — or whether you need to upgrade from 100 to 200 amps? This free calculator estimates your home’s electrical demand load using the NEC® 220.82 method and tells you what service size you likely need. Then a licensed, Tesla-certified Charge Home Solutions electrician can confirm it during a free in-home assessment.
1. Your home
2. Major appliances & equipment
3. Heating & cooling (largest one counts)
4. High-power additions (the panel-killers)
This estimator uses the NEC® 220.82 optional method for a quick guide only. It is not a substitute for a licensed electrician’s load calculation. A Charge Home Solutions electrician confirms your exact needs during a free in-home assessment.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I need a panel upgrade?
If your estimated demand load is close to or above your current service size — or you are adding an EV charger, hot tub, heat pump, or large appliances — you likely need an upgrade. This calculator gives a quick estimate; a licensed electrician confirms it.
What size electrical panel do I need for an EV charger?
Most homes adding a Level 2 EV charger need at least 200-amp service. A 32A charger adds about 7,680 watts and a 48A charger about 11,520 watts of continuous load, which often pushes a 100- or 150-amp panel over capacity.
Is this calculator a real load calculation?
It uses the NEC 220.82 optional method for a fast, realistic estimate, but it is not a stamped load calculation. Your licensed electrician performs the official calculation before any permit or upgrade.