Electrical Panel Upgrade in Laval
Many older homes in Laval still run on a 60 or 100 amp panel, which isn't enough for a heat pump, an EV charger, or a renovated kitchen. Our RBQ-licensed partner electricians upgrade to 200 amps in compliance with the Quebec Construction Code.
Signs to watch for
Breakers that trip frequently, a panel under 100 amps, plans to add a heat pump or EV charger, lights flickering when a major appliance runs.
How much does it cost?
Complete guide
Signs an upgrade is needed
An undersized electrical panel rarely shows up as a complete failure — it shows up as symptoms homeowners eventually treat as "normal." A breaker that trips every time the toaster and microwave run together isn't a faulty appliance, it's a sign the circuit is nearing its limit. A 60 or 100 amp panel, common in homes built before the 1990s in Laval, was enough for the electrical needs of that era, but quickly becomes insufficient once you add a heat pump, an EV charger, or a renovated kitchen with more power-hungry modern appliances.
How the upgrade works, step by step
- Current panel assessment — an electrician determines existing amperage, wiring condition, and current and future electrical needs of the home.
- Permit application — a panel upgrade requires an electrical permit, obtained by our partners before work begins.
- Coordination with Hydro-Québec — the grid connection sometimes needs adjustment, requiring coordination with the utility.
- New panel installation — the existing panel is replaced, typically to 200 amps, with a temporary power shutoff of a few hours.
- Final inspection — the work is checked for compliance with the Quebec Construction Code before full service is restored.
What influences the price
| Factor | Impact on price |
|---|---|
| Target amperage (100A, 200A, 400A) | A higher-capacity panel costs more in equipment and labor |
| Distance to the Hydro-Québec connection point | A longer distance increases wiring costs |
| Condition of existing wiring | Outdated wiring (knob-and-tube, aluminum) may require additional updates |
| Installation complexity | Panel access and home layout affect labor time |
Choosing the right amperage
| Amperage | Best for | What makes it different |
|---|---|---|
| 100 amps | A small unit with basic electrical needs | Only sufficient if no major additions are planned |
| 200 amps | Most modern single-family homes | Current standard, supports a heat pump, EV charger and modern appliances |
| 400 amps | Larger homes with several power-hungry systems | Needed for a home combining electric heating, an EV charger and a pool, for example |
What's different in Laval
Older Laval homes sometimes have knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring, both of which raise safety and compatibility concerns with modern panels — an RBQ-licensed electrician assesses this before proposing a solution. Any panel upgrade requires an electrical permit and inspection, a step our partners handle in full.
After the upgrade
A new panel doesn't need regular maintenance, but it's still worth having the full electrical installation checked every 10-15 years, especially in homes over 30 years old. Also watch for any sign of overload after adding a new power-hungry appliance, even with an up-to-date panel.
Myths vs. facts
Myth: a 100 amp panel is enough for any modern home. Fact: once you add a heat pump, EV charger or several power-hungry appliances, 100 amps quickly becomes insufficient — 200 amps is now the recommended standard.
Myth: a breaker that trips often is just a faulty appliance. Fact: that's sometimes the case, but a breaker that trips repeatedly across different circuits often means the overall panel is nearing its maximum capacity.
Myth: upgrading an electrical panel is a project an experienced DIYer can handle. Fact: this work requires an RBQ license, an electrical permit and an inspection — a non-compliant installation is a serious fire risk and can void home insurance coverage in the event of a claim.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my panel needs an upgrade?+
Breakers that trip frequently, a panel under 100 amps, or plans to add a heat pump or EV charger are clear signals for homeowners in Laval.
How much does a 200 amp upgrade cost?+
Expect $1,500 to $4,000 in Laval depending on distance to the Hydro-Québec connection point and the complexity of existing wiring.
Does the power need to be shut off during the work?+
Yes, typically for a few hours. Our partners in Laval coordinate with Hydro-Québec as needed to minimize the interruption.
My home has knob-and-tube wiring, is that a problem?+
This wiring type, found in several older Laval homes, often needs a thorough assessment and sometimes partial replacement during a panel upgrade.
What amperage do I need for an EV charger?+
A 200 amp panel is generally recommended to add an EV charger without compromising the capacity of the home's other circuits.
How long does a full upgrade take?+
Most residential upgrades in Laval are completed in a single day, including Hydro-Québec coordination and the final inspection.