Brought to you by Onda Electric | Victoria, BC
Modern homes use more electricity than ever—from EV chargers and heat pumps to hot tubs and home offices. If your home still runs on a 100-amp electrical service, you might already be pushing your limits. At Onda Electric, we help homeowners across Victoria upgrade to 200-amp or even 400-amp service, ensuring their electrical systems are safe, efficient, and ready for the future.
What Is a Service Upgrade?
An electrical service upgrade increases your home's power from the utility grid. The most common upgrade is from 100amp to 200amp, although large or custom homes may require a 400amp setup
Here's how they compare:
100amp – Standard in older homes. Often insufficient for modern living.
200amp – Ideal for most updated homes. Supports multiple large appliances, EV chargers, and additions.
400amp – Recommended for large homes, multi-suite residences, or properties with high energy demands (e.g., pools, workshops, home gyms).
If your panel is full, or you see dimming lights, tripped breakers, or restrictions when adding new appliances, it may be time for an upgrade.
Signs You Might Need a 200-amp or 400-amp Service Upgrade
In Victoria, many homes built before the 1990s still operate on 60-amp or 100-amp service. These systems were never designed to handle the electrical loads of today's tech-forward lifestyle. Here are some signs it's time to consider a service upgrade:
You're installing an EV charger
Adding a heat pump or central A/C
Renovating or expanding your home
Adding a suite or secondary kitchen
Using multiple high-demand appliances simultaneously
Experiencing frequent breaker trips or flickering lights
At Onda Electric, we often consult with Victoria homeowners before major projects—like kitchen remodels or solar installations—to ensure their service can support the increased load.
What's Involved in a 200-amp or 400-amp Service Upgrade?
Upgrading your electrical service is a complex project that a licensed electrician must do. At Onda Electric, we've streamlined the process to make it stress-free and code-compliant:
Initial Assessment
We inspect your existing service and evaluate your power needs. This includes looking at your panel, wiring, grounding, and overall system capacity.
Permit & Coordination
We take care of all necessary permits and coordinate with BC Hydro to shut off and reconnect your power during the upgrade.
Panel & Meter Base Upgrade
We install a new main panel, meter base, and service mast or conduit as needed. This also includes upgrading grounding and bonding systems.
Inspection & Power Restoration
Once everything is installed, we arrange for an electrical inspection. After approval, BC Hydro reconnects power to your home.
Depending on the complexity, the process usually takes 1–2 days. We ensure everything is completed safely, cleanly, and up to current BC electrical code.
Benefits of Upgrading to 200-amp or 400-amp Service
Investing in a service upgrade isn't just about fixing today's problems—it's about future-proofing your home. When you choose Onda Electric to upgrade your service in Victoria, you'll enjoy:
✅ Support for EV chargers, heat pumps & new appliances
✅ Room to grow—renovate or add a suite without electrical limits
✅ Fewer breaker trips or overloads
✅ Improved safety and compliance with insurance requirements
✅ Increased property value and resale appeal
Many of our Victoria clients tell us that upgrading their service gave them peace of mind and opened the door to home improvements they'd been putting off.
Do You Need 400amp?
While 200amp is the new standard for most homes in Victoria, there are cases where a 400amp service is the better choice. You might need 400amp if:
Your home is 4,000+ square feet
You have multiple large HVAC systems
You're running a home-based business with industrial equipment
You're adding a full legal suite or carriage house
You plan to add various EV chargers
At Onda Electric, we'll never upsell you. We'll provide honest recommendations based on your home, usage, and goals.
Why Choose Onda Electric for Your Service Upgrade in Victoria?
As a trusted name in Victoria electrical services, Onda Electric brings decades of experience and a strong commitment to safety, transparency, and professionalism. When you work with us, you can expect:
Fully licensed and insured electricians
Local knowledge of Victoria's permitting and hydro systems
Honest quotes and clear communication
Workmanship that meets and exceeds the BC Electrical Code
We've completed service upgrades in everything from heritage homes in Fairfield to new builds in Westshore—and we bring the same level of care to every project.
Get Ahead of the Demand—Book Early
With more Victoria homeowners adding EV chargers, heat pumps, and rental suites, demand for 200-amp and 400-amp upgrades is growing. Permits and BC Hydro scheduling can take time, so it's smart to plan.
If you're considering upgrading your electrical system in the next 6–12 months, now is the time to get in touch.
Book Your 200-amp or 400-amp Service Upgrade with Onda Electric Today.
Whether you're outgrowing your current panel or planning a significant renovation, Onda Electric is here to help. We make electrical upgrades simple, safe, and future-ready.
Serving all of Greater Victoria, we offer free consultations and clear guidance on what's right for your home.
📞 Call us today or book online to schedule your assessment!
Your power needs have changed—make sure your service can keep up.
