Amp (Ampere)
The base unit of electric current, measuring how many electrons flow through a conductor per second. Household circuits are typically rated at 15, 20, or 30 amps.
Why It Matters
Panel upgrade decisions, EV charger installation, and circuit load calculations all depend on amperage. A 200-amp panel is the modern standard for electrified homes.
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Related Terms
Watt (W)
A unit of power equal to one joule per second. Solar panels are rated in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW = 1,000W).
Panel Upgrade
Replacing a home's electrical panel with a higher-capacity one (typically 100A to 200A) to accommodate additional electric loads like solar, battery, EV charger, or heat pump.
EV Charger (EVSE)
Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment — a device that safely delivers electricity to charge an EV battery. Level 2 (240V) chargers are most common for home use, adding 25-30 miles of range per hour.