Signs you need an upgrade
Frequent tripping, a full panel, or planned equipment such as kitchen appliances, medical devices, server rooms or electric heating are all signs. A load calculation turns these hunches into numbers.
Our Master Electrician, Adam Williams, leads the review and reports in plain terms what the service can carry and what it cannot.
Ask the landlord for the single-line diagram, if one exists. It saves time and reduces guessing.
What the work involves
An upgrade may include a new main switch, a larger panel or meter, new feeders and, in some cases, work by the utility on the supply side. Landlord approval is usually needed in leased buildings.
Space for the new equipment must be found, with the clearances the Canadian Electrical Code requires.
Lead times and approvals
Equipment such as switchgear and transformers can take many weeks to arrive. The utility has its own process for applications and connection dates. These items often control the whole schedule.
Order early and track approvals weekly. If the project is in winter, outdoor utility work may add time.
How we manage it
Because our electricians are our own employees, we can design, permit, install and coordinate shut-downs under one plan. Power outages are scheduled with the building and with you, so disruption is short.
We also coordinate with our mechanical crew when new equipment, like rooftop units, adds load.
Plan for the future
It often costs little extra to size feeders and conduits for growth while the walls are open. Spare capacity and spare conduit are inexpensive compared with returning later.
Questions we hear
Who pays for a service upgrade?
It depends on the lease and the utility's rules. Settle this before signing, if you can.
How long does an upgrade take?
It depends on equipment lead times and the utility. Some take weeks and others many months, so start early.