Panel and Service Upgrade

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Whether you're transitioning from fuses to breakers or upgrading your service to 100 or 200 amps, our experienced team is here to deliver fast, efficient service—often completing the job in a single day. This means less disruption for you, and a more reliable, safe electrical system in your home or business.

1. Greater Power Capacity
   Upgrading to a 200 amp service provides the extra capacity you need to power more devices and appliances. As homes become increasingly reliant on high-energy appliances, electronics, smart devices, and EV chargers, this upgrade ensures your system can handle the load safely.
    
2. Improved Safety
   A new, modern electrical system offers enhanced protection against overloads, short circuits, and other potential hazards. Upgrading your panel reduces the risk of electrical fires, shocks, and system failures, ensuring your home or business is safer.
    
3. Increased Reliability
   Outdated electrical panels often cause power trips and system interruptions. By upgrading, you’ll enjoy a more stable, reliable electrical system that minimizes downtime and delivers consistent, uninterrupted power.
    
4. Compliance with ESA Codes
   An upgrade ensures that your electrical system meets the latest Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) standards. This keeps your property safe, up to code, and aligned with current electrical safety regulations.
    
5. Boosted Property Value
   A modern electrical system adds significant value to your property. Potential buyers will recognize the importance of a safe, reliable, and up-to-date electrical setup, making your home or business more appealing and competitive on the market

The age of an electrical panel is an important factor in determining whether it should be replaced, but there are a few things to consider beyond just the number of years. Here's a general guideline:

• Standard Lifespan: Electrical panels can last anywhere from 25 to 40 years depending on the brand, usage, and maintenance. Well-maintained panels often last closer to 40 years, while older or poorly maintained panels may need replacement sooner.
   

Signs It Might Be Time for a Replacement:

1. Age: If your panel is over 40 years old, it's a good idea to start thinking about an upgrade, especially if you’re experiencing any of the issues below.
    
2. Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips: This could indicate an overloaded or faulty panel, and if it's happening regularly, it may be time to replace it with a higher-capacity model.
    
3. Outdated or Faulty Breakers: If your circuit breakers are tripping often or showing signs of damage, they may not be functioning as they should. Older breakers, particularly those that are no longer manufactured or discontinued (e.g., Federal Pacific or Zinsco panels), are a fire hazard and need replacement.
    
4. Burn Marks or Discoloration: Any visible signs of burning, scorched areas, or discoloration in or around the panel are red flags, indicating overheating or other serious electrical issues.
    
5. Insufficient Capacity: Older panels often have lower amperage ratings (like 60-100 amps), which may not be enough to handle the power demands of modern homes (especially if you've added appliances like air conditioners, electric dryers, or EV chargers). A 200-amp panel is now the standard for most homes.
    
6. Rust or Corrosion: Panels exposed to moisture or humidity can develop rust or corrosion, compromising the integrity and safety of the system.
    
7. No Grounding: Older panels may not have grounding systems that meet modern safety standards, which can pose a risk of electrical shock or fire.
    
8. Not Enough Breakers: If you’re constantly running out of breaker space for new appliances or updates, it’s a sign the panel is inadequate and should be replaced.
    
9. Failed Inspections: If you’re buying a house or if an electrician or home inspector flags the panel as faulty during an inspection, it's time for an upgrade.
    

An outdated or failing panel can result in:

• Frequent power outages and trips.
   
• Overloading circuits, which could lead to electrical fires.
   
• Increased risk of shock or electrocution due to grounding issues or faulty breakers.
   

Replacing an electrical panel is not a DIY job. It requires a licensed electrician to:

• Disconnect and remove the old panel.
   
• Install a new panel, which may involve upgrading the meter, wiring, or even the grounding system to meet current codes.
   
• Perform testing to ensure everything is running safely.
   

If you're unsure about the condition of your panel, a licensed electrician can do an inspection and recommend whether a replacement is needed.

The meter base is the crucial link between your home or business and the utility's power grid. If your meter base is old, damaged, or located inside your home, it’s important to consider an upgrade or relocation.

1. Safety and Compliance: Old or damaged meter bases can pose significant risks, including the potential for electrical faults, power interruptions, or fire hazards. If your meter base is inside your home, relocating it to the outside ensures safer, code-compliant installation.
    
2. Improved Accessibility: Re-locating your meter base to an accessible outdoor location makes future maintenance and inspections easier and safer for utility workers. This also minimizes the risk of accidental damage caused by internal factors like flooding or construction.
    
3. Efficiency for Multi-Unit Properties: We specialize in installing multiple gang meter bases, which are ideal for apartment complexes or townhouses. These allow each unit to have separate metering, providing clearer billing and improved system organization.
    
4. Seamless Coordination: We handle all the coordination with Hydro Ottawa, Hydro One, and the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA), ensuring the relocation or upgrade process is seamless and hassle-free for you.
    

At Ring Electric, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive electrical solutions. Our team of licensed electricians will:

• Assess your current electrical system and recommend the best upgrade options.
   
• Replace your old 100-amp panel with a new, larger 200-amp panel.
   
• Relocate or upgrade your meter base as needed to meet safety standards.
   
• Ensure full compliance with all ESA codes and handle all necessary coordination with the utility companies.
   

Contact us today to schedule your electrical upgrade. We’ll ensure your home or business enjoys a safer, more efficient electrical system with minimal disruption.