Electric panels should be replaced every twenty-five to forty years, so if you fall outside this bracket, you will almost certainly need to upgrade them. However, while age is a significant factor in panel replacement, it isn’t the only one.
If you notice:
- flickering lights or sparks on your power outlets
- a distinct burning odor or warmth around your panel
- or small electric shocks when touching appliances
These are all signs of faulty wiring, one of the most common causes of house fires in Canada. You will probably have to update your electrical panel if you put in a major new device like a hot tub or an air conditioner. If you discover that you have a lot of power strips and extension cords in your home, it implies that the amount of energy used has exceeded the capacity of your residence.
So, what is the cost to upgrade from 60 to 100 amp electrical panel in Canada? Upgrading your electrical panel from 60 to 100A (or even 200A) can vary on several factors, let’s look at each of those in detail.
Factors that affect the cost of upgrading electrical panels in Calgary
When you search for “cost to replace electrical panel Calgary,” you’ll notice that the price range is quite broad. Many aspects influence the final cost of panel installation and upgrading. The following is a rundown of all the elements that influence pricing you may not have been aware of.
Circuit Breaker Type
A circuit breaker is a safety device that prevents too much current from flowing through a cable, which may result in overheating and electrical fires. Single-pole and double-pole circuit breakers are the two most common types. The key distinction between them is their power capacity.
- Single-pole breakers can deliver up to 20 amps and 120 volts, making them ideal for general household lighting circuits.
- Double-pole breakers can supply up to 60 amps and 240 volts to most electrical outlets for your high-power appliances, such as air conditioners, electric ranges, hairdryers, and other electronics.
You will need to determine which breaker best suits your needs based on your power usage.
Electrical Panel Brand
There are several brands on the market, and the higher the quality, the more you’ll have to pay. When it comes to replacing your home’s main electrical panels, look for an established manufacturer like Schneider Electric that has been producing electrical components for years. The price may be a little more expensive, but you will get years of service and protection in return.
Increasing the Amps
Today’s households require considerably more electricity. They have television sets in each room and use laptops and other domestic electrical equipment that our houses were not built to handle. If you want to install appliances requiring higher amps, you may need to upgrade your system to avoid overloads and tripping. Consider the number of amps required to power your house, just like a circuit breaker. More amperage means more electricity in your home.
Moving the Electrical Panel
You can move electrical panels to meet your demands, it will cost more in labor and wiring and will take more time to remove and replace the breaker box, as well as extend wires where necessary but may be necessary for your specific set up.
Labor Cost
The cost of your Calgary electrician’s work depends on the system type you choose to install and the current model characteristics. You will pay for the complexity of the task they need to perform and the time required to replace your electrical panel.
How much does it cost to upgrade an electrical panel in Calgary in 2023?
The overall cost of electrical panel replacement or upgrade is determined by a variety of factors, so the costs may differ significantly. If your electrical panel is in good working order and you’re planning to renovate a 100 amp electrical system, you’ll want to set aside between $3000 and $3500.
For a 200 amp electrical panel upgrade, you’ll have to spend between $4000 and $5000, if you have an overhead electrical service. If your electrical services are fed underground, then costs start at about $6000 and up.
Ready to Replace Your Old Electrical Panel in Calgary?
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Calgary electricians for a free estimate to get a precise figure.