Upgrading Your Electrical Panel for a Future EV Charger Installation in Milton, Ontario

​With electric vehicles (EVs) becoming more popular in Milton, Ontario, homeowners are increasingly preparing their homes to support EV chargers. One crucial step in this process is upgrading your electrical panel to ensure it can handle the added electrical load safely and efficiently. At Milton Electric, we've helped numerous residents upgrade their systems to accommodate EV charging stations, ensuring both convenience and safety.


Why Upgrade Your Electrical Panel for an EV Charger?

EV chargers, particularly Level 2 chargers, require a significant amount of power. Most older homes in Milton, especially those built in established areas like Timberlea or Dorset Park, may still have outdated 100-amp panels that struggle to support modern energy demands — let alone an EV charger. Upgrading to a 200-amp panel is often the best solution to ensure your home can manage the additional power requirements without overloading circuits.


Helping a Homeowner in Milton Upgrade for an EV Charger

A recent customer in Coates, reached out to us after purchasing a new electric vehicle. Their home had a 100-amp panel, which was already handling various high-energy appliances, including an air conditioner and electric stove. Adding a Level 2 EV charger risked tripping the breaker frequently.

Our team at Milton Electric conducted a full assessment of their home's electrical load and determined that upgrading to a 200-amp panel was the safest and most efficient solution. The upgrade allowed the homeowner to install their EV charger with dedicated wiring, ensuring consistent charging without risking circuit overloads. The customer now enjoys fast and reliable charging for their EV without worrying about electrical issues.


What to Expect During an Electrical Panel Upgrade

When you contact Milton Electric for an electrical panel upgrade, here's what the process typically looks like:

1. Assessment: We evaluate your current panel's capacity, home energy usage, and EV charger requirements.
2. Planning: Our electricians determine the best location for your upgraded panel and any necessary rewiring.
3. Permits: Electrical panel upgrades require permits in Ontario. We handle the application process to ensure everything is done according to the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) standards.
4. Installation: We carefully install your new panel, ensuring all circuits are correctly connected and labeled.
5. Inspection & Testing: After installation, we conduct thorough testing to confirm the system is safe and capable of supporting your EV charger.

Is It Mandatory to Upgrade to a 200-Amp Panel for an EV Charger?

Not always. Some homes may be able to install a Level 2 EV charger on a 100-amp panel if the energy demand is low and smart load-sharing devices are installed. However, in most cases — particularly in larger homes or older properties — upgrading to a 200-amp panel is the safest and most future-proof solution.


How Much Does an Electrical Panel Upgrade Cost in Milton, Ontario?

The cost of upgrading to a 200-amp panel can vary based on your home's layout, wiring complexity, and installation requirements. On average, Milton homeowners can expect to pay between $2,000 to $4,000 for a complete upgrade. Factors such as distance from the power meter, panel location, and additional wiring may influence the final cost.


Can I Upgrade My Electrical Panel Myself?

No, electrical panel upgrades should always be performed by a licensed electrician. In Ontario, electrical work that involves major panel changes must comply with ESA regulations to ensure safety. DIY panel upgrades can result in serious safety risks, code violations, or voided home insurance policies.


Future-Proofing Your Home in Milton

With EV adoption rapidly growing in Milton neighbourhoods like Scott, Bronte Meadows, and Harrison, preparing your home for future charging needs is a smart investment. Even if you don’t own an EV today, upgrading your electrical panel now can add value to your home and ensure you're ready for modern energy demands.

At Milton Electric, we take pride in helping our community stay ahead with safe, reliable electrical upgrades. If you're considering an electrical panel upgrade for a future EV charger installation, contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your home is powered for the future.

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