Frequently Asked Questions

Panel upgrades in New Brunswick typically cost between $1,500 and $4,000. A basic 100A to 200A upgrade runs $2,000-$3,000. If your panel location needs to change or you need significant rewiring, costs can reach $4,000-$6,000. Get two or three written quotes from TSANB licensed electricians before committing - we can match you with local ones for free.

Not always. Level 2 EV chargers require a 40A or 50A circuit. If your existing panel has available capacity and is 200A, you likely don't need an upgrade. If you have a 100A panel or your panel is fully loaded, you'll need an upgrade to add the new circuit safely.

Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panels manufactured between 1950-1990 have a documented history of breakers failing to trip during overloads, creating fire hazards. Many insurance companies require replacement. If you have an FPE panel, we recommend replacing it.

Amperage determines how much electrical load your home can handle simultaneously. 100A was standard for older homes but struggles with modern demands like EV chargers, central AC, and electric ranges. 200A service is now standard for new homes and provides room for future electrical needs.

EV charger installation typically costs $1,200-$2,500 including the charger itself. Basic installations where the panel is close to the charging location run $1,200-$1,500. If the electrician needs to run cable a long distance or upgrade your panel, costs can reach $2,500 or more.

No. In New Brunswick, electrical work requires permits and must be done by licensed electricians. Self-installation is illegal, voids your warranty, and could affect your home insurance. Electricians in our network install Tesla Wall Connectors and every other EV charger brand.

Most installations are completed in 4-6 hours. If a panel upgrade is needed, it may take a full day or two days. Your electrician files the TSANB permit and schedules the inspection, usually within a few days of installation.

Level 1 uses a standard 120V outlet and adds about 5-8 km of range per hour of charging. Level 2 uses a 240V circuit and adds 30-50 km per hour. For daily driving, Level 2 is the practical choice - you can fully charge overnight.

Full rewiring costs vary significantly based on home size, number of stories, and accessibility. A 1,500 sq ft bungalow typically runs $8,000-$15,000. A two-story home can be $12,000-$25,000. Expect a detailed quote only after an electrician has walked through your home - anything quoted sight-unseen is a guess.

Knob and tube wiring isn't inherently dangerous if it's in good condition and hasn't been modified. However, it lacks a ground wire, can't handle modern electrical loads, and becomes a fire hazard when covered with insulation. Many insurance companies require its removal.

Check your electrical panel - if the wires entering the breakers are silver rather than copper, you likely have aluminum wiring. Common in homes built 1965-1975, aluminum wiring requires special handling at connections to prevent fire hazards. A licensed electrician can assess the connections and, where the wiring is otherwise sound, remediate them with approved connectors rather than a full rewire.

Rewiring timeline depends on home size and complexity. A bungalow might take 3-5 days. A two-story home typically takes 5-7 days. Ask how the crew will minimize disruption - good electricians plan the work room by room and patch walls as they go.

Yes, most electrical work in New Brunswick requires a permit and TSANB inspection. This includes panel upgrades, new circuits, EV chargers, and significant modifications. Minor work like replacing outlets or switches doesn't require permits. Your licensed electrician pulls the permit - confirm that before work starts, because unpermitted work becomes your problem at resale.

The Technical Safety Authority of New Brunswick (TSANB) is New Brunswick's independent regulator for electrical safety. After permitted electrical work, a TSANB inspector verifies the work meets the New Brunswick Electrical Safety Code. Your electrician schedules the inspection and is responsible for correcting anything the inspector flags.

The inspection itself takes 15-30 minutes. Once the electrician completes the work and submits for inspection, the TSANB typically schedules within 3-5 business days. Ask your electrician to coordinate the timing so you aren't waiting around.

Unpermitted electrical work can result in fines, problems selling your home, insurance claim denials, and most importantly, safety hazards. If you have unpermitted work, a licensed electrician can assess it, correct any deficiencies, and have it permitted and inspected retroactively.

Call immediately for: burning smells from outlets or panels, sparking, buzzing sounds from your panel, no power to part of your home, water near electrical equipment, or any situation that feels unsafe. Don't wait - electrical problems can escalate quickly.

Many electricians in our network offer after-hours and emergency service. Say it's urgent when you submit your request and it goes to electricians who take emergency calls. If there is fire, smoke or someone has been shocked, call 911 first.

Emergency service includes a higher call-out fee ($150-$250 depending on time of day) plus regular labour and materials. A reputable electrician will make the situation safe first and give you an estimate before any further work.

Yes, if you can safely access your panel. Turn off the main breaker to cut power to your home. Don't touch anything that looks damaged or burned. If you see flames or the smell is strong, leave the home and call 911. Once it's safe, have a licensed electrician in before restoring power.

Electrician rates in New Brunswick typically range from $80-$120 per hour for standard work. Emergency and after-hours rates are higher. For defined projects, ask for a fixed quote rather than an hourly rate - it's more predictable for you.

Electrical quotes vary based on: scope of work, accessibility (finished vs. unfinished spaces), panel condition, wire runs required, and whether permits are needed. Ask each electrician for a detailed quote that breaks down what's included so you can compare accurately.

Some electricians offer financing on larger projects like panel upgrades and rewiring; terms vary by contractor and project size. Ask about it when you request your quote.

Most NB electricians charge a diagnostic or service-call fee of roughly $75-$150 that covers the first hour of troubleshooting, and many apply it toward the repair if you proceed. Quotes for defined projects like panel upgrades or EV chargers are usually free - confirm before booking.