What are the standards for residential electrical panels in Quebec?

In Quebec, as in all of Canada, electrical panels must meet strict installation and safety standards. Indeed, it is the very heart of the entire electrical structure of a building. This device also protects the occupants from potential electrical problems. Let's review the standards that this type of box must meet to be considered compliant.

The location of the electrical box

Generally speaking, an electrical panel should be :

- In the basement of your house;

- Near one of the main entrances to the house.

It should be inserted in a technical housing duct and located at a certain height so that the circuit breaker levers are easily accessible, but not so high that children can reach them and play with them. The recommended height is between 0.9 and 1.8 m from the floor.

The elements that must be present in an electrical panel

In order to perform its protective function in an optimal way, an electrical panel must have the following elements:

- Differential switches ;

- Circuit breakers ;

- Main ground terminal;

- Lightning arrestor.

Fused panels in older buildings are generally not up to code. They should be replaced with more modern breaker panels. Also, the arrangement of components and wires should be in a certain order. Call a certified electrician to ensure that the wires in the box are properly arranged.

The power of the panel

For a residential building, an electrical panel must contain at least 40 circuits with an amperage of 200A. It is possible to have modular panels installed that can accommodate a higher number of circuits and whose amperage can be increased as needed. However, the numbers mentioned above are the minimum allowed in the standards.

Compliance of components

To ensure the safety of the occupants, it is advisable to always choose quality components. It is not mandatory that each component conforms to standards, but it is imperative that a certified electrician installs the box and its components. However, there are also certified components that are sold with the box. This facilitates the assembly work and ensures optimal safety.

Installation and replacement of elements by a certified professional

The electrical panel is an essential part of your electrical circuits. Its installation requires know-how, experience and specific equipment. Also, making repairs around the box can be dangerous. It is for these reasons that it is essential to call a certified electrician to proceed with the installation, maintenance and repair of your electrical panel.

At Erco, we can do just that. We can :

- Make sure that your sign complies with the standards in force in Quebec;

- Check the condition of its components;

- Update your panel to suit your needs;

- Check that the device is functioning optimally.

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