How much does a 200 amp panel upgrade cost in Ottawa?

A 200 amp panel upgrade in Ottawa typically costs between $2,000 and $3,500, depending on your current electrical setup and any additional work required.

The price variation depends on several key factors. If you're upgrading from a 100 amp service, the cost is generally on the lower end since the main service wire from the street can often handle the increased capacity. However, if you're upgrading from an older 60 amp service, Hydro Ottawa may need to upgrade the service drop from the transformer, which can add $500-$1,000 to your project cost.

Panel location and accessibility significantly impact pricing. A panel in an easily accessible basement location costs less than one requiring extensive rewiring or relocation. If your current panel is a Federal Pacific or Zinsco brand, expect costs toward the higher end due to additional safety considerations and potential wiring updates required by ESA inspectors.

The upgrade process involves several components that affect total cost. The new 200 amp panel itself runs $300-$600, while the electrical labor typically accounts for $1,200-$2,000. You'll also need an ESA permit (around $150-$200) and mandatory ESA inspection. Some homes require a new meter base or grounding upgrades to meet current Ontario Electrical Safety Code requirements, adding $200-$500.

Additional costs to consider include any necessary circuit rewiring if your current wiring doesn't meet code, which can add $200-$400 per circuit. If you're planning to add high-demand appliances like EV chargers or hot tubs, discuss this during the upgrade to ensure proper circuit allocation.

ESA permits are mandatory for all panel upgrades in Ontario. Your licensed electrician will pull the permit before starting work, and an ESA inspector will verify the installation meets code requirements. The entire process typically takes 1-2 days for the electrical work, plus 3-5 business days for ESA inspection scheduling.

Why upgrade to 200 amps? Modern homes with electric vehicles, hot tubs, air conditioning, and multiple appliances often exceed 100 amp capacity. Signs you need an upgrade include frequently tripped breakers, flickering lights when appliances start, or an electrician recommending it for new high-demand installations.

For an accurate quote on your specific 200 amp panel upgrade, Electrical Ottawa offers free consultations to assess your current electrical system and provide detailed pricing based on your home's unique requirements.

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Electrical Ottawa connects you with vetted, ESA-licensed electricians from the Ottawa Construction Network:Ottawa Electrical Contractors:

• LB Electric
• Faulkner Electric
• Home Town Electrical Services