Panel Upgrades in Scarborough

How Panel Upgrades Works

1. 1

   Free load assessment

   We inspect your existing panel, service entrance, and typical electrical load, then confirm whether 100A or 200A service fits your home and any planned additions like EV charging.

2. 2

   Permit & utility coordination

   We pull the ESA permit and, where a service upgrade is involved, coordinate the temporary disconnect and reconnect with your local utility so the timeline is predictable.

3. 3

   Installation day

   We replace the panel, breakers, and (if needed) the meter base and mast, keeping the power outage window as short as possible and cleaning up before we leave.

4. 4

   ESA inspection & documentation

   An ESA inspector signs off on the completed work and we hand you the certificate of inspection for your records, insurance, or future home sale.

Frequently Asked Questions

If I’m adding potlights to my Wexford or Birchcliff bungalow, will my old panel handle it?

It depends on your existing circuit capacity and how many fixtures you’re adding. Since panel upgrades and potlight installs are both common in these neighbourhoods, we check panel capacity as part of the lighting quote rather than assuming it’s fine.

Are Federal Pacific or Zinsco panels still common in Scarborough homes?

Yes, particularly in bungalows and side-splits built in the 1960s and 70s. Both brands have breakers with a documented history of failing to trip during a fault, so we recommend replacement rather than repair when we find one.

How do I know if my electrical panel needs an upgrade?

Frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, a burning smell near the panel, or an older Federal Pacific or Zinsco panel are all signs it may be time for an upgrade. Read our guide on 5 signs your panel needs an upgrade, or call us for a free assessment.

How long does a panel upgrade take?

Most residential panel upgrades are completed in a single day, including the ESA inspection process. Commercial upgrades vary depending on building size and scheduling requirements.

Do I need a permit for a panel upgrade?

Yes. Every panel upgrade requires an ESA permit and inspection, which we pull and schedule on your behalf as part of the job.

What size panel do I need, 100A or 200A?

Most homes with electric heating, EV charging, or major renovations need 200A service, while smaller homes without heavy loads may be fine with 100A. We size your new panel based on your home’s actual electrical load, not guesswork.

How much does a panel upgrade cost?

Cost depends on your panel size, service entrance condition, and whether utility coordination is needed. We provide a clear, itemized quote after a free on-site assessment.