When planning a new build or major renovation in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), most homeowners and contractors focus on the exciting aspects—open-concept kitchens, modern finishes, smart home systems, and energy-efficient appliances. But behind all of those upgrades lies one essential component that often goes unnoticed: the electrical panel.

At Murtex Electric, we’ve seen how overlooking this critical part of your home’s infrastructure can lead to costly problems down the road. If you're building new or upgrading your space, here's why your electrical panel deserves your attention—and possibly an upgrade.

What Is an Electrical Panel, and Why Does It Matter?

Your electrical panel (also known as a breaker panel or distribution board) is the hub that distributes electricity to every circuit in your home. It controls how power flows to lighting, outlets, appliances, and any additional systems like HVAC or EV chargers.

An outdated or undersized panel can:

• Limit your home's power capacity
  
  
• Create safety hazards
  
  
• Prevent you from adding modern features
  
  
• Fail to meet updated Ontario Electrical Safety Code standards
  
  

In short: if your panel can’t handle the load, everything else suffers.

Why Panel Upgrades Are Crucial for New Builds and Renovations

1. Modern Homes Demand More Power

Today’s homes use far more electricity than those built even 20 years ago. With the rise of:

• Electric vehicle chargers
  
  
• High-end kitchen appliances
  
  
• Home automation systems
  
  
• Electric heating and cooling systems
  
  
• Smart lighting and security
  
  

…it’s not uncommon for homes to require 200 amps or more, compared to the 60–100 amps many older panels provide.

Without a properly sized and updated panel, your new home or renovation may not support these features safely or reliably.

2. Code Compliance and Safety

When undergoing a major renovation or new build, all electrical work must comply with the Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC). Installing or upgrading a panel is not only about convenience—it’s about ensuring your home is safe and legally compliant.

Murtex Electric works closely with ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) to ensure every panel upgrade or new installation meets current standards.

3. Room to Grow

A properly sized panel gives you flexibility for the future. Whether you decide to finish the basement later, install solar panels, or add an EV charger, you’ll want the infrastructure in place—so you don’t have to open walls or replace breakers later on.

4. Resale Value

An upgraded electrical panel is a strong selling point for any home. Real estate agents and savvy buyers know the value of modern electrical infrastructure. It's not just about watts—it’s about peace of mind, lower insurance premiums, and fewer headaches down the road.

How Murtex Electric Can Help

Whether you're working with a builder, architect, or managing the renovation yourself, Murtex Electric provides expert service from start to finish. Our licensed electricians can:

• Evaluate your current and future power needs
  
  
• Design and install a properly sized panel (100A, 200A, or more)
  
  
• Work with your contractor to ensure timelines are met
  
  
• Secure all permits and arrange ESA inspections
  
  
• Upgrade old fuse panels to modern breaker systems
  
  

We’re fully insured, ESA-certified, and available for 24/7 support if any issues arise during or after construction.

Don’t Build on a Weak Foundation

Your electrical panel is the backbone of your home’s power system. Skimping on it during a new build or renovation could leave you with overloads, limitations, or costly fixes in the future.

Planning a project in the GTA? Let Murtex Electric handle your panel upgrade the right way—efficiently, safely, and up to code.

Contact us today for a consultation or quote.