Power Up Your Panel: Details on Electrical Panel Upgrades
As a homeowner in Calgary, you may have heard about the importance of electrical panel upgrades. With modern homes consuming more electricity due to new appliances, EV chargers, and secondary suites, it’s critical to ensure your panel can handle the load.
But how do you know when it’s time to upgrade? And what should you consider when making that decision? Let’s break it down.
Why You Might Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade
1. Outdated Electrical Panels
Older homes may not be equipped to handle today’s power demands. Central air conditioning, EVs, hot tubs, and home offices require stable, modern power supply. Upgrading your panel ensures safe, reliable performance.
2. Frequent Breaker Trips
If your breakers are constantly tripping, your panel may be overloaded. A modern panel prevents these interruptions and reduces electrical fire risks.
3. Home Renovations or Secondary Suites
Adding a basement suite or new appliances increases electrical load. SureTek helps you assess whether your panel needs upgrading to support this demand. Learn more about secondary suites here.
4. Electric Vehicle Chargers
EVs require dedicated 40–100 amp circuits. Many panels can’t support this without upgrades. Read more about EV charger installation.
5. Aluminum Wiring
If your home was built in the 60s or 70s, you may have aluminum wiring, which can be a safety concern. Replacing your panel and ensuring safe copper connections is one way to reduce that risk. Find out more here.
100 Amp vs. 200 Amp Panels: What’s Best?
100 Amp Panels
Good for smaller homes with modest electrical usage. If you don’t plan on adding EVs or suites, this could be enough — but may limit future upgrades.
200 Amp Panels
Recommended for most modern homes. These support EV charging, air conditioning, hot tubs, secondary suites, and future upgrades with confidence. It’s the smart, future-proof choice.
How Much Does a Panel Upgrade Cost in Calgary?
Costs vary depending on your current setup, home size, and the complexity of the install:
- 100 Amp Upgrade: $1,500–$2,500
- 200 Amp Upgrade: $3,000–$5,000
Other factors may include wiring condition, meter relocation, or added circuits. SureTek provides clear, upfront pricing with no surprises.
Secondary Suites and Your Electrical Panel
Adding a suite increases electrical load. From stoves to dryers to increased lighting — your panel needs to handle it all. A panel upgrade ensures you’re compliant with Calgary building codes and ready to power both your home and suite safely.
Is Aluminum Wiring a Concern?
Yes. Aluminum wiring expands and contracts more than copper, leading to loose connections and fire hazards. A panel upgrade often helps address compatibility and safety. We always inspect aluminum connections as part of our upgrade process.
Why a Panel Upgrade Is a Smart Investment
Upgrading your panel is an investment in your home’s value, insurance eligibility, and safety. Whether you’re prepping for a renovation, EV charger, or legal suite, a new panel gives you the power and peace of mind you need.
What to Expect from a SureTek Panel Inspection
We begin with a full assessment of your panel and system. Our inspection includes:
- Thermal imaging for hotspots
- Checking connections and breakers
- Testing load balance and performance
- Voltage testing across all lines
- Recommendations based on future upgrades
Get Your Panel Upgrade with SureTek
SureTek Electric specializes in panel upgrades for Calgary homes. Whether you’re upgrading for a reno, EV, or suite — we’ll get you quoted, permitted, and powered up properly.
→ Learn more about our Panel & Service upgrades
📞 Call us: (587) 323-4123
📧 Email: info@suretek.ca
Don’t wait for a failure — upgrade your panel with SureTek today.