Many homeowners in Victoria live in older houses that were never designed to handle today’s electrical demand. If your home was built 30, 40, or even 60 years ago, your electrical panel may already be outdated — and in some cases, unsafe.
At AE Electric & HVAC Systems Ltd, we regularly help homeowners upgrade their panels to improve safety, support modern appliances, and prepare for future upgrades like heat pumps or EV chargers. Here’s how to tell if it’s time to consider an electrical panel upgrade.
1. Your Panel Is 100 Amps or Less
Most modern homes require at least 200-amp service to safely run today’s electrical loads.
If your panel is rated at 60 or 100 amps, it may struggle to handle:
- Heat pumps
- EV chargers
- Induction stoves
- Hot tubs or workshops
- Home additions or suites
An undersized panel doesn’t just limit upgrades — it increases the risk of overheating and breaker failure.
2. Breakers Trip Frequently
Occasional breaker trips are normal. Frequent tripping is not.
If your breakers trip when you run multiple appliances, or when heating or cooling systems turn on, it’s a sign your panel is overloaded. This is one of the most common reasons homeowners call us for an inspection.
Ignoring frequent trips can lead to damaged wiring and increased fire risk.
3. You Still Have a Fuse Box
Fuse boxes were common decades ago, but they are no longer considered safe or practical for modern homes.
They lack the protection features of modern breaker panels and make it difficult to add new circuits.
Many insurance companies in BC now require fuse box replacement before renewing or issuing a policy.
4. You’re Planning Major Upgrades or Renovations
If you’re planning any of the following, a panel upgrade is often required:
- Heat pump installation
- EV charger installation
- Kitchen or bathroom renovation
- Basement suite or secondary suite
- Solar panels
Upgrading your panel early avoids delays, failed inspections, and costly rework later.
5. Lights Flicker or Outlets Feel Warm
Flickering lights, buzzing sounds, or warm outlets are warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored.
These symptoms may indicate loose connections, overloaded circuits, or aging components inside your panel.
Electrical issues can escalate quickly, so it’s always best to have them inspected by a licensed electrician.
6. Safety, Efficiency, and Home Value
A modern electrical panel improves more than just safety. It also:
- Makes your home more energy-efficient
- Increases resale value
- Supports future electrification upgrades
- Brings your home up to current electrical code
For many Victoria homeowners, a panel upgrade is a smart long-term investment.
How an Electrical Panel Upgrade Works
At AE Electric & HVAC Systems Ltd, we make the process simple and transparent:
- Free or low-cost electrical assessment
- Load calculation and upgrade recommendation
- Permit and utility coordination
- Safe, code-compliant installation
- Final inspection and approval
Our licensed electricians handle everything from start to finish.
Are There Rebates or Incentives?
While panel upgrades themselves may not always qualify for standalone rebates, they are often required to unlock rebates for other upgrades like heat pumps, EV chargers, or solar systems.
Think of a panel upgrade as the foundation that makes future savings possible.
Book a Free Electrical Safety Assessment
If you’re not sure whether your panel needs upgrading, we’re happy to take a look.
A short assessment can give you peace of mind — and help you plan future improvements the right way.
Book Your Free Electrical Assessment Today
Serving homeowners in Victoria and across Vancouver Island.
📞 (250) 589-3314
📧 support@ae-electric.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a panel upgrade take?
Most panel upgrades are completed in one day, with a short power shutdown coordinated in advance.
Do I need a permit?
Yes. Electrical panel upgrades require permits and inspections. We handle all of this for you.
Will my power be off for long?
Typically 4–8 hours, depending on the scope of work and utility coordination.