100 AMP vs. 200 AMP Panel — What Is the Difference?

Recently Completed 400 Amp 240 Volt Service for a new house and lane-way in Burnaby BC

100 AMP vs. 200 AMP Panel — What Is the Difference?

One of the most common questions we get from homeowners in the Lower Mainland is this: do I actually need to upgrade from a 100 AMP panel to a 200 AMP panel? The short answer is: if you are asking the question, you probably do.

Here is a clear breakdown of the difference between the two, and how to know which one is right for your home.

What Do the Numbers Mean?

Amperage refers to the maximum amount of electrical current your panel can safely handle at one time. Think of it like the size of a pipe — a 200 AMP panel is a bigger pipe, capable of carrying more power into your home.

• 100 AMP service: The older standard, common in homes built before the 1980s. Designed for a time when homes had fewer appliances, no air conditioning, and certainly no EV chargers.

• 200 AMP service: The current standard for most new construction in BC. Required by the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) for most modern residential loads.

Is 100 AMP Enough for a Modern Home?

For many Lower Mainland homes, 100 AMP service is no longer sufficient. Modern appliances draw significantly more power than those from 30–40 years ago. Air conditioning, heat pumps, and in-floor heating all add significant electrical load. EV chargers require a dedicated 40A or 50A circuit — in a 100 AMP panel, that takes up nearly half your total capacity. Home offices and smart home systems add further to your overall draw.

If your home is regularly tripping breakers, if lights dim when appliances kick on, or if you are planning to add an EV charger or major appliance, 100 AMP service is almost certainly the issue.

What the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) Says

The CEC (CSA C22.1) sets the minimum service size requirements for residential buildings. For most new homes in BC, 200 AMP service is the standard. If you are doing a significant renovation, adding a suite, or installing an EV charger, your electrician may be required to upgrade your service as part of the project to meet current code. TSBC requires a permit for service upgrades, and the completed work must be inspected.

What About 400 AMP?

Some larger homes or properties with multiple dwellings, workshops, or commercial-use spaces may benefit from 400 AMP service. This is less common for standard residential use but worth discussing if you have significant electrical demands or a secondary suite.

What a Panel Upgrade Involves

Upgrading from 100 AMP to 200 AMP service typically involves replacing the main electrical panel, upgrading the meter base (coordinated with BC Hydro), upgrading the service entrance conductors, and pulling a TSBC permit with a completed safety inspection. The work typically takes a full day and requires a brief power outage while the panel is swapped. Hundel Electric handles the TSBC permit and BC Hydro coordination so you do not have to manage it.

Serving the Lower Mainland Since 2007

Homes built before the 1980s in Surrey, Delta, Burnaby, Richmond, Coquitlam, Langley, and New Westminster are the most likely candidates for a panel upgrade. Hundel Electric is FSR and Red Seal Certified, and all of our work is done to CEC standards with full TSBC permitting.

Not sure if your panel is up to the job? Call Hundel Electric: 604-358-5549 | hundelelectric.com