A Homeowner’s Guide to Service Panel Upgrades in the GTA

Why Service Panel Upgrades Matter

Every home in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) relies on electricity for daily activities — but not all homes are equipped to meet today’s demands. A service panel upgrade in the GTA can significantly improve safety, performance, and energy capacity. This guide covers the key signs, benefits, and steps involved in upgrading your panel.

If you’re ready to begin, visit our service panel upgrade page.

Signs Your Electrical Panel Needs an Upgrade

Is your panel outdated? Here are some common indicators:

Frequent breaker trips
Flickering or dimming lights
Overheating appliances
Old fuse box instead of breakers
Insufficient power for modern devices

Upgrading from a fuse box to a breaker panel is one of the most important safety improvements you can make.

100A vs. 200A Service: What’s Right for You?

A common decision in panel upgrades is choosing between 100A and 200A service:

100A Service: Suitable for small homes with limited power needs
200A Service: Ideal for larger homes or those with high electricity usage, such as EV chargers, home offices, or electric stoves

A licensed GTA electrician can assess your usage and recommend the right option.

How Long Does an Electrical Panel Upgrade Take?

On average, a residential electric panel upgrade takes 4 to 8 hours. Factors that may affect the timeline include:

Accessibility of your current panel
Complexity of your home’s wiring
Time needed for inspections and final testing

Don’t skip panel inspection services — they’re essential for confirming everything meets safety and code requirements.

Do You Need a Permit for Panel Upgrade in the GTA?

Yes, most service panel upgrades in Ontario require an ESA permit. This ensures:

Safety through compliance with building codes
Insurance coverage in case of incidents
Legal documentation for home resale

Always choose electricians who handle the permit process professionally.

Does a Panel Upgrade Increase Home Value?

Yes — here’s how a panel upgrade pays off:

Boosts resale value with modernized systems
Reduces risk of electrical fires
Lowers energy waste through better distribution
Supports future tech like solar or EV systems

While the breaker panel upgrade cost varies, it’s a valuable long-term investment.

Choosing the Right Electrician for the Job

Hiring a qualified professional ensures a smooth, code-compliant upgrade. Look for:

Licensed and insured electricians
Experience in electrical panel replacement
Positive online reviews and customer referrals

A code-compliant panel install will keep your home protected and future-ready.

Additional Tips for Homeowners

Consider home rewiring if your electrical infrastructure is outdated
Assess your future energy needs, including appliances, renovations, or EVs
Plan for possible additions like solar panels or battery backup systems

Conclusion

A service panel upgrade in the GTA isn’t just an electrical upgrade — it’s an investment in safety, comfort, and future-readiness. By identifying the signs, choosing the right service capacity, understanding permit requirements, and hiring a licensed electrician, you can modernize your home with confidence.

For expert help with your residential electric panel upgrade, trust the team at SGF Electric to deliver reliable and professional service.