Signs it's time to look at your panel
- No empty breaker spaces left for new circuits
- Breakers that trip often or feel warm
- An older fuse panel or a panel brand that insurers or home inspectors flagged
- Planning a big new load: EV charger, hot tub, garage, or basement development
- Scorch marks, buzzing or a burning smell (turn off the circuit and get it checked)
Subpanel, panel replacement or service upgrade?
- A subpanel (from $899) adds breaker spaces fed from your main panel. It's a good fit for garages, workshops and basement developments when your main panel has capacity but no room.
- A panel replacement (from $2,499) swaps out an old, damaged or full panel for a new one, keeping the same service size.
- A service upgrade (for example from 100A to 200A) increases the power coming into the home. It involves your electricity provider for the disconnect and reconnect, and it's quoted after seeing your setup.
Load calculation first
Before recommending anything, I look at what's already on your panel and what you plan to add. Sometimes a subpanel or load management device is enough, and you don't need to pay for a full upgrade.
Permits
Panel replacements and subpanels typically need an electrical permit in Alberta. Permit work is done through a licensed Master Electrician partner, so the work is inspected and on record.
What to send for a quote
- A photo of the panel with the door open, plus the label inside the door
- A photo of the meter outside
- What you're planning to add
- Your neighbourhood or town
Serving Edmonton and area
YEG Sparky serves Edmonton, St. Albert, Sherwood Park, Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, Leduc, Beaumont and Fort Saskatchewan, plus neighbourhoods across Edmonton like Mill Woods, Windermere, Terwillegar, Castle Downs, Clareview, Summerside and Old Strathcona.
✉ Email [email protected] for a free quote