Can renovations overload electrical circuits?

Yes, renovations frequently overload electrical circuits, especially in older Toronto homes where the electrical system wasn't designed for modern appliances and increased electrical demands. This is one of the most common issues contractors encounter during renovation projects.

Understanding Circuit Overload

When you add new outlets, lighting, or appliances during a renovation, you're increasing the electrical load on existing circuits. Most older Toronto homes (built before 1980) have 100-amp service panels with 15-amp or 20-amp branch circuits that were adequate for the time but struggle with today's electrical needs. Modern kitchens alone can require 6-8 dedicated circuits for appliances like microwaves, dishwashers, garbage disposals, and counter outlets.

The warning signs of overloaded circuits include frequently tripping breakers, dimming lights when appliances start up, warm outlet covers or switch plates, and that distinctive burning smell around electrical panels. In Toronto's older neighborhoods like Cabbagetown, The Annex, or Leslieville, century homes often still have knob-and-tube wiring or early cloth-wrapped wiring that's completely inadequate for modern electrical loads.

Toronto-Specific Electrical Requirements

In Ontario, any electrical work requires permits through the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA), and all work must be performed by licensed electricians. The Ontario Electrical Safety Code mandates specific requirements for different areas of your home. Kitchen renovations typically require at least two 20-amp circuits for counter outlets, plus dedicated circuits for major appliances. Bathroom renovations need GFCI protection and often require new circuits since older homes rarely had adequate bathroom electrical.

Professional Assessment is Essential

Before starting any significant renovation, have a licensed electrician assess your electrical panel and existing circuits. In Toronto's housing market, electrical upgrades often become necessary during renovations - budget $3,000-$8,000 for panel upgrades and $150-$300 per new circuit. While this seems expensive, it's far less costly than dealing with electrical fires or having your renovation shut down by ESA inspectors.

Next Steps

Contact a licensed electrician early in your renovation planning process, before you finalize designs or pull building permits. They can perform a load calculation to determine if your current electrical system can handle your renovation plans. If upgrades are needed, factor this into your timeline - electrical work often requires coordination with other trades and can add 1-2 weeks to your project schedule.

Browse verified, ESA-licensed electricians in our Toronto Construction Network directory to ensure your renovation's electrical work meets all safety codes and permit requirements.