A 100-amp electrical panel was standard in GTA homes built before 1980. In 2026, it’s a liability. Here’s when and how to upgrade.
Why 100A is now insufficient:
Modern household electrical loads have increased dramatically:
- Central air conditioning: 3,000–5,000W
- Electric stove/range: 8,000–14,000W
- Electric dryer: 5,000–7,000W
- EV charger (Level 2): 7,200W
- Heat pump: 3,000–6,000W
- Home office equipment: 1,500–3,000W
Running several of these simultaneously exceeds 100A capacity. More practically: insurance companies increasingly flag 100A panels as a surcharge or coverage restriction.
When a 200A upgrade is needed:
- Planning kitchen renovation with high-draw appliances
- Adding central air or upgrading to heat pump
- Installing EV charging (Level 2 requires 240V dedicated circuit)
- Finishing basement with full electrical requirements
- Home inspector recommends it at purchase
The upgrade process:
- Licensed electrician applies for electrical permit
- Service entrance upgraded (from utility meter to panel)
- New 200A panel installed
- Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) inspection
- Utility company may need to upgrade service entrance cable
Cost: $3,500–$7,500 installed, depending on complexity.
Knob-and-tube wiring:
Pre-1950 GTA homes often have active knob-and-tube wiring. Most insurers won’t cover homes with active K&T or charge significant premiums. Replacement cost: $8,000–$20,000+ depending on home size.
What electrical upgrades have you completed on your GTA home? Share costs and ESA process experience.
home.renovation.reviews — Canada’s renovation community.