Electrical Panel
Upgrades

When Does Your Panel Need an Upgrade?

Most homes built before 1990 are running on electrical panels that were never designed for today's power demands. If your panel is showing any of the following signs, a professional assessment isn't optional — it's urgent.

• Breakers that trip frequently or won't reset
• Flickering or dimming lights throughout the home
• A fuse box instead of a modern breaker panel
• Burning smell, buzzing, or warm spots near the panel
• Under 100A service (especially if adding appliances, EV charger, or hot tub)
• Panel brands known for issues: Federal Pacific, Zinsco, or older Pushmatic
• Your insurance provider is flagging the panel
• Planning a renovation or addition that adds electrical load

Our Panel Upgrade Process

We handle the full project from assessment to final ESA inspection sign-off. Here's what to expect when you book a panel upgrade with Safe Electrical Solutions.

1. Free Panel Assessment

A licensed electrician visits your property, evaluates the existing panel, meter base, and service entrance, and confirms the scope of work. We discuss your current load requirements and any planned additions (EV charger, basement apartment, pool pump, etc.) to right-size the new panel.

2. ESA Permit Application

We file the required permit with the Electrical Safety Authority before any work begins. All work is performed by ESA-licensed Master Electricians — we never cut corners on permits, because an unpermitted panel upgrade can void your insurance and cause problems when you sell.

3. Panel Replacement Day

We coordinate with Toronto Hydro or your local utility for the temporary power shutoff, replace the panel and meter base as needed, and reconnect all circuits. Most residential upgrades are completed in a single day. We keep disruption to a minimum and leave the work area clean.

4. ESA Inspection

After the installation, an ESA inspector visits to verify the work meets the Ontario Electrical Safety Code. We have an excellent track record of passing on the first inspection. You receive the inspection certificate for your records.

Panel Upgrade Options

We install panels ranging from 100A to 400A depending on your property type and power needs:

• 100A upgrade — small homes with standard loads
• 200A upgrade — most common; handles modern residential demands including EV charging
• 400A upgrade — large homes, multi-unit properties, or commercial spaces with high electrical demand
• Meter base replacement — often required as part of a service upgrade
• Fuse-to-breaker conversion — replaces outdated fuse panels with modern breaker panels

Common Questions

How long does a panel upgrade take?

Most residential panel upgrades are completed in one day. Larger commercial projects or 400A service upgrades may take two days. Power is only off for the duration of the actual panel swap — typically 3–6 hours.

Do I need to be home during the upgrade?

We recommend you or a trusted adult be present during the job. We will need access to the electrical panel, and you should be available to answer any questions about circuit locations or planned additions.

Will my insurance increase after a panel upgrade?

In most cases, a permitted panel upgrade can actually reduce your insurance premiums, especially if you're replacing an older or flagged panel. Contact your broker after the upgrade — they'll often want to see the ESA certificate.

Do you upgrade Federal Pacific and Zinsco panels?

Yes. These panels are known fire hazards and should be replaced as soon as possible. We regularly handle replacements across the GTA and will ensure the new panel meets all current code requirements.