Electrical Services

Considerations For an Electrical Panel Upgrade.

Electrical panel upgrades require significant planning. A 200-amp panel upgrade involves the homeowner, BC Hydro, Technical Safety BC, and power electricians.

Overview

The most common electrical panel upgrade for single family residential applications is a 100-amp panel to a 200-amp panel.

A 200-amp panel will power your kitchen counter appliances, fridge, microwave, range, dishwasher, freezer, washer and dryer, furnace, hot water tank, lighting, and receptacles, and still have capacity for shops, hot tubs, pools, air conditioning and additions to the existing home.

Locally, when electrical contractors in Vernon B.C are wiring a secondary suite, they are required to provide an electrical panel upgrade and install a 200-amp panel in residential homes. At Quantum Power, a local and dependable Vernon electric company, safety is our primary goal.

There are six significant factors to consider before upgrading your 100-amp panel to a 200-amp panel.

1. Determine the size of the service.
2. The type of service that best meets your needs.
3. BC Hydro requirements.
4. Canadian Electrical Code requirements.
5. Homeowner’s responsibilities.
6. Permit and Inspections.

Determining Electrical Service Size

The size of the electrical panel upgrade is determined by the load. If you plan to install a hot tub, build a shop, add an air conditioner, or add significant electrical load, a power electrician is required to complete a load calculation to ensure the additional load does not exceed the rated ampacity of your new 200-amp panel.

As per Canadian Electrical Code, Quantum Power, a Vernon electric company, accuritly completes a thorough audit of all the existing loads, and includes additional loads to the calculation.

Once the load calculation is complete, our expert electricians in Vernon BC design, plan, install and complete a high quality electrical panel upgrade. This may include re-purposing the 100 amp panel and circuit breakers, depending upon design requirements.

Service Type

The next step is to determine what type of service best meets your needs. Electrical panel upgrades can be overhead, underground or a combination of both.

 

Overhead

A BC Hydro overhead service requires a triplex cable from the BC Hydro pole to a point of attachment on the home. The triplex cable is BC Hydro’s responsibility.

The terminations of the incoming BC Hydro cable to the homeowner’s service conductors are the division of properties. All equipment downstream of the terminations is the homeowner’s responsibility excluding the meter.

The conductors are protected by a metal conduit that may, or may not penetrate the roof, and securely fastened to a structural part of the home. The conduit enters a meter-base enclosure and terminates on the line side terminals. The load side terminals are connected to the new 200-amp panel main breaker.

A BC Hydro service connection application will be submitted by the power electrician. On that date expect to be without power for 4 – 6 hours. Pros & Cons: Pros – overhead services can be a cost-effective way to bring power into rural properties. Cons – overhead services are prone to failure in windy conditions.

Underground

Quantum Power’s expert electricians in Vernon BC install underground electrical services in both rural and city areas.

If your area is fed with underground power, the division of property between BC Hydro and the homeowner’s service is at the property line.

For city properties, the homeowner is responsible for providing an approved underground conduit from the property line to the meter-base on the exterior of the home. From the property line to the underground kiosk is BC Hydro’s responsibility.

A BC Hydro service connection application will be submitted by the power electrician. On that date expect to be without power for 4 – 6 hours. Pros & Cons: Pros: Underground services are exceptionally durable. If installed correctly, weather events rarely cause issues with underground electrical panel upgrades. Underground services are visually more appealing with the absence of overhead wires.

Over-Under Combination

A combination of overhead and underground services can benefit both rural and city properties.

For example, homes set back on acreage may require a long run. Overhead is a cost-effective way to supply power to a private pole, which then can go underground to the home.

The BC Hydro pole installation cost averages $2000.00. The cost saving applies to the overhead cable from the BC Hydro service connection supply point to a private pole. The maximum distance for an overhead span is thirty meters. The first thirty meters of cable is supplied, installed, and maintained by BC Hydro.

The meter-base is then installed on a private pole allowing the remainder of the run to go underground, which is the responsibility of the homeowner. Trust Quantum Power’s knowledge and experience to design, install and complete a high-quality electrical panel upgrade.

Overhead | Underground | Combination

BC Hydro Requirements

Overhead Services

A BC Hydro service connection guide for overhead and underground services is available online, BC Hydro Connection Guide. Requirements ensure safe installation for the homeowner, BC Hydro line technicians, and power electricians.

Five significant requirements for a BC Hydro overhead service with a 200-amp panel upgrade are:

• Service Height
• Service Location
• Service Length
• Meters
• Safety and Ladder Use

Height restrictions of cable spans vary depending upon what type of road or pedestrian traffic they span. Cables spanning highways, roadways, driveways, and pedestrian walkways must meet BC Hydro’s guidelines. Your local electrical contractor will determine if a service mast is required to obtain clearance heights.

The service location must have a clear line of sight from the point of attachment on the exterior wall of the home to the BC Hydro pole providing power. The service must be installed on the wall facing the pole, or no further than one meter back, on the side of the home closet to the source of power. If site conditions allow it, it is cost effective to install the new 200-amp panel directly behind the meter-base when building an electrical panel upgrade.

The maximum service length from BC Hydro’s pole to the point of attachment on your home must not exceed thirty meters. Incoming overhead cables must not create an aerial trespass over an adjacent property.

Several factors determine the meter-base location on the exterior of your home. The meter-base enclosure must be accessible to BC Hydro technicians and meter readers.
Garages and carports are unacceptable locations for the meter-base because of probable future enclosure restricting access.

Minimum horizontal distances must be maintained between the meter-base and natural gas, and propane discharge vents.

Often service connections are completed by a power electrician from an extension ladder. A 4:1 ratio (4M high to 1M out) is required to achieve a safe angle for the extension ladder and BC Hydro technicians. Based on the ratio, the landing point of the ladder must be level, kept free of plants, shrubs, and trees.

You can rely on Quantum Power and their electricians in Vernon BC to ensure requirements for overhead services are met.

For a complete list of requirements for overhead services go to – BC Hydro Connection Guide.

Underground Services

Five significant requirements for an underground BC Hydro service connection with a 200-amp panel upgrade are:

• Installation
• Call Before You Dig
• Service Location
• Service Length
• Meters

Installation requirements for an underground electrical panel upgrade with a new 200-amp panel are in-depth and lengthy. The primary message conveyed in this section is to make homeowners aware of their responsibilities. The homeowner is responsible for supply and installation of the customer service conduit to the stub-off on private property (property line). Beyond the stub-off point is BC Hydro’s responsibility.

Call 1-800-474-6886 Before You Dig!
BC One Call has information about other underground services on your property. The information is critical to keep workers and property safe while excavating.

A straight line of sight must be maintained between the service entrance and BC hydro’s stub-off point, and on the wall facing the power supply, or less than 1M back on adjacent walls.

The service length is thirty meters from the service entrance to the property line.

Meter Installation – see overhead meter location.

You can rely on Quantum Power and their electricians in Vernon BC to ensure requirements for underground services are met.

For a complete list of requirements for overhead services go to – BC Hydro Connection Guide.

Canadian Electrical Code

The Canadian Electrical Code is an in-depth resource for electrical panel upgrades to BC electrical contractors. It is critical to meet or exceed all code requirements governing underground and overhead services.

We strongly recommend the technical side of the Canadian Electrical Code be left to the electrical contractor; however, a basic knowledge of main service installations will add clarity for the homeowner.

Peter Knight’s Electrical Code Simplified BC is an excellent resource to aid in understanding the complex process of installing a 200-amp panel. More information on residential electrical services can be found at Peter Knights web site, https://psknight.com.

Homeowners Responsibilities

• Contact and meet with local electrical contractors in Vernon BC. Provide electrical specifications of additional loads carried by the new 200-amp panel. In addition, discuss additional work like trenching, tree trimming, drywall, and exterior siding repair to determine what is included in the estimate. Review the load calculation and estimate with the electrical contractor.

• The homeowner must authorize a BC Hydro service connection submitted by your power electrician. This can be done online or by telephone. BC Hydro will then provide you with the cost for connection of your new electrical panel upgrade. The connection fee will be applied to your existing BC Hydro account.

• Prepare the site for installation. Creating clear access to rooms affected by construction makes installation efficient and progress smoothly. Expect removal of a small amount drywall or exterior siding.

• Prepare to be without power on the day of connection. As each project has different requirements power could be off for an hour, or eight hours. Ask your electrical contractor so you are prepared for the connection day.

Permit and Inspections

• In cities or rural areas without an electrical department, Technical Safety BC has authority. Permit fees vary for electrical panel upgrades depending upon the size of the new service. Permit fees are paid by the electrical contractor on behalf of the homeowner and are usually included in an estimate.

• Inspection requests are submitted by your local electrical contractor. Prior to energizing the 200-amp panel, a date and time will be scheduled for inspection. Once the installation is complete and compliant, the inspector will submit an “authorization for connection,” and your local electrical contractor will submit a connection request at the same time.

As a premier electrical contractor in Vernon BC, Quantum Power will quickly and efficiently design, plan, and build the perfect main electrical service to meet your needs.

At Quantum Power, a Vernon electric company, our primary goal is safety.

If you have question or need more information, please call 250-307-4003, or visit our contact page

Why Choose LED Lighting Installation for Your Residential or Commercial Space?

LED Lighting Installation: The Smart Choice for Your Home or Business

Discover the benefits of LED lighting installation for your residential or commercial space to see what a difference it can make!

Are you considering LED lighting installation for your residential or commercial space but need more convincing? Many people don’t realize that LED lights use up to 90% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last up to 25 times longer.

Switching to LED lighting is an investment that pays off in the short and long-term, freeing up precious resources that can be used elsewhere. If you’re unfamiliar with the benefits, it’s time to start paying attention.

Learning the benefits of LED lighting will show you why it’s the best option for your commercial space.

Read on to learn more about why you should choose LED lighting installation.

Energy Efficiency

LED lights are not only a cost-effective lighting solution but also an energy-efficient one. Compared to traditional lighting options, LED lights are designed to convert more electrical energy into light.

Remember, LED bulbs last use 90% less energy and can last 15 times longer. This helps businesses save money on operations and maintenance. This is because LED lights require less power to produce the same amount of light, making them more efficient and economical.

These substantial energy savings can significantly reduce electricity bills. This is particularly true for commercial spaces that often require extensive lighting.

Moreover, LED lights have improved durability, contributing to their energy efficiency because they:

• Last longer without compromising their performance
• Need less frequent replacements
• Provide ambient lighting

This longevity saves significant money on replacement costs. It also minimizes waste generated by disposing of worn-out bulbs.

A reputable local contractor can help you better understand how you can continue to improve energy efficiency overall.

Cost Savings

The fact is that LED lights have a slightly higher upfront cost than traditional lighting options. However, their long-term cost savings far outweigh the initial investment.

One of the major factors contributing to cost savings is the extended lifespan of LED lights.

On average, LED lights can last up to 50,000 hours or more. In comparison, a traditional incandescent bulb lasts around 1,000 hours.

This means LED lights can provide illumination for years before needing a replacement. Rarely having to purchase and install new bulbs saves money. It also reduces the maintenance and labour costs associated with constantly changing bulbs.

LED lighting installations offer ongoing cost savings through reduced energy consumption. LED lights consume less power to produce the same amount of light as traditional lighting options. Ultimately, this leads to lower electricity bills.

The energy efficiency of LED lights is very beneficial for businesses that require high-intensity lighting for extended periods.

By upgrading to LED lighting, businesses can significantly decrease operational costs and allocate those savings to other operations.

Long-Lasting, Safer Lights

One of the key advantages of LED lighting installation is its long lifespan. As mentioned earlier, LED lights can provide illumination for 50,000 hours or more.

This extended lifespan eliminates the need for frequent bulb replacements. This makes LED lighting an attractive option for all commercial spaces.

Not only does this translate into significant cost savings over time, but it also has long-term benefits like:

• Gives hassle-free lighting
• Fewer interruptions
• Provides creative lighting options
• Lowers stress
• Helps with employee productivity
• Much cooler
• More resistant to breakage

Since LED lights are cooler, there is less risk of combustion or burns.

Enhanced Ambience

LED lighting installation offers unmatched ambience enhancement in your commercial space. LED lights are available in a wide range of:

• Colours
• Sizes
• Shapes
• Dimming options
• Brightness levels

This allows you to customize your lighting according to your preferences.

You can create a warm and cozy atmosphere in your office or a bright, energetic space. LED lights are perfect for creating a vibrant setting in a retail store.

Moreover, LED lights can be tailored to meet your specific lighting needs.

LED lights can be dimmed or brightened to achieve the perfect lighting intensity for any occasion. With smart lighting systems and accessories, you can easily control and adjust your LED lights’ colour, temperature, and brightness.

LED lights can suit your mood or activity. LED lights offer incredible flexibility in creating the desired atmosphere in your space by having:

• Amber tones
• Daylight-like hues
• Cooler tones
• Multiple tones
• Brighter tones
• Custom tones

Moreover, LED lights have excellent colour rendering capabilities. This allows them to accurately represent colours and textures.

Colour rendering is important in commercial settings like retail stores or art galleries. This is because the true and vibrant representation of products or artwork in these settings is crucial.

Finally, LED lighting enhances the visual appeal of objects and spaces. This makes them more dynamic, visually appealing, and true to life.

Eco-Friendly Lighting

In an era of increasing environmental awareness, LED lighting installation is a sustainability beacon.

Unlike traditional lights, LED lights are free from harmful substances like mercury. This makes them both safer for the environment and human health.

Mercury is a highly toxic substance that can contaminate water and soil. It poses a significant risk to ecosystems and living organisms. By choosing LED lights, you contribute to:

• A cleaner environment
• The safety of your employees
• Better health and well-being
• Consuming less energy
• Lowering carbon dioxide emissions
• Creating a green business
• A sustainable future
• Helping slow climate change
• Improve your community

LED lighting is ideal for businesses that value sustainability and eco-friendliness.

By investing in LED lights, you align yourself with environmental conservation measures. You’ll do this while enjoying the benefits of long-lasting and visually stunning lighting.

Consider LED Lighting Installation for Your Business

LED lighting installation is undoubtedly the smart choice for both residential and commercial spaces.

Don’t miss out on experiencing the many benefits of LED lighting installation. Upgrade your space to energy-efficient lighting today. You can turn to Quantum Power for expert Vernon electrical services guidance and reliable LED lighting solutions to meet your needs.

We provide electrical services to the Vernon, B.C., area, and have been in business since 1998. Our services include commercial electrical projects that involve lighting upgrades and other electrical equipment installations.

We also offer various other Vernon electrical services like residential renovations, service upgrades, and panel upgrades.

Make the smart choice and enjoy the transformation LED lighting can bring to your business. Contact us today to get started!