Fuse Box Replacement in Mississauga

Yes, all electrical panel replacements in Ontario require ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) permits—this is mandatory provincial law. We handle complete permit applications, fee payments, work documentation, and ESA inspection scheduling on your behalf. You receive the official ESA certificate of inspection proving code-compliant installation—the critical documentation your insurance company requires for coverage approval and often premium reductions.

Most fuse box replacements complete in 6-8 hours within a single workday. Your electrical power will be temporarily off while Alectra Utilities disconnects and reconnects your meter—typically 1-2 hours total interruption. We coordinate all utility scheduling to minimize inconvenience. Complex projects involving service entrance upgrades, multiple sub-panels, or extensive circuit additions may require two days depending on scope.

Most Mississauga homeowners see significant insurance savings after panel upgrades. Many insurers charge 15-30% premium penalties for homes with fuse panels, particularly combined with aluminum wiring or basement renovations, and some refuse coverage entirely. After replacement, submit your ESA certificate to your insurer—premium reductions typically apply immediately. Many clients recover their upgrade investment through insurance savings within 3-5 years while gaining modern electrical capacity.

We recommend 200-amp service for most Mississauga homes. While 100-amp suffices for small condos or townhomes with minimal loads, 200-amp accommodates central AC, electric appliances, one EV charger, and future expansion. Large estate homes, properties with pools, workshops, or multiple EV chargers require 400-amp service (dual 200A panels). The cost difference between 100A and 200A is only $100-$200, making 200A the smart long-term choice for virtually all single-family homes.

While functioning fuse boxes aren't explicitly illegal, keeping one creates significant limitations. Insurance companies increasingly refuse coverage or impose major premium penalties. You cannot add AFCI/GFCI protection required by modern code. Any renovation, addition, or EV charger installation requires panel upgrade before permits. Home buyers and their inspectors consistently flag fuse panels as major concerns affecting resale value and financing. Proactive upgrading almost always proves more cost-effective than waiting.

Not usually—panel replacement connects to existing branch circuit wiring. However, if your Mississauga home has knob-and-tube wiring or aluminum branch circuits, we'll discuss options for addressing those separately based on their condition and locations. Many homes have partially updated wiring from previous renovations. We thoroughly assess your complete electrical system during consultation and recommend only necessary work, never unnecessary upgrades.

Absolutely—panel replacement is the optimal time to add circuits. Common additions include dedicated circuits for EV chargers (40-50A), basement apartments (sub-panels), home offices, pools, hot tubs, or workshop equipment. Adding circuits during panel swap is significantly more cost-effective than separate projects later requiring additional permits and inspections. Discuss all your plans during initial consultation and we'll incorporate everything into a comprehensive quote and single ESA permit.