How Much Does It Cost to Add a Dedicated Circuit in Ontario?

How Much Does It Cost to Add a Dedicated Circuit in Ontario?

A dedicated circuit supplies power to a single appliance or area, with no other devices sharing that circuit. Many modern appliances — washers, dryers, EV chargers, air conditioners, and refrigerators — require or perform best on a dedicated circuit. Here’s what dedicated circuit installation costs in Ontario, including specific pricing for common appliance circuits.

How Much Does a Dedicated Circuit Cost in Ontario?

Dedicated circuit installation by a licensed electrical contractor in Ontario starts at $150. This is the base price for a standard dedicated circuit run from the electrical panel to the appliance location. The final cost depends on the distance from the panel, the amperage required, and the type of outlet needed.

Dedicated Circuit Pricing by Appliance

Washer Dedicated Circuit (with GFCI and Arc Fault Protection)

A dedicated circuit for a washing machine in Ontario starts at $250, plus the ESA permit and inspection. This circuit is installed with both a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet and an arc fault breaker (AFCI), as required by the Ontario Electrical Safety Code for laundry locations. The GFCI protects against shock in wet environments, and the arc fault breaker protects against electrical fires caused by wiring faults.

Dryer Dedicated Circuit

Dryer circuit installation starts at $450, depending on the distance from the main electrical panel. Dryers require a 240V, 30-amp dedicated circuit — a significantly heavier circuit than a standard 120V outlet. Longer runs require more heavy-gauge wire, which increases material and labour costs. The starting price includes the circuit, outlet, and all required breakers.

What Is a GFCI Outlet and Why Is It Required for a Washer Circuit?

A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet shuts off power within milliseconds if it detects an imbalance in current flow — the kind of imbalance that occurs when electricity takes a path through a person’s body. In laundry rooms, the combination of water and electricity makes GFCI protection mandatory under the Ontario Electrical Safety Code.

An arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI or arc fault breaker) detects a dangerous electrical arc — the kind that can ignite insulation or surrounding materials — and trips the circuit before a fire can start. The OESC now requires AFCI protection in bedrooms and many other living spaces, including laundry circuits in newer installations.

Do You Need a Permit to Add a Dedicated Circuit in Ontario?

Yes. Adding a new circuit from the electrical panel is regulated electrical work under the Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC). An ESA permit is required, and the Electrical Safety Authority will inspect the installation after the work is complete.

Only a licensed electrical contractor can legally pull this permit. In Ontario, only licensed electrical contractors and master electricians are authorized to perform electrical work on residential, commercial, or industrial properties.

Common Appliances That Need a Dedicated Circuit

• Washing machine (with GFCI and AFCI protection)
• Clothes dryer (240V, 30A)
• Refrigerator
• Dishwasher
• Microwave (above certain wattage)
• Electric range or cooktop (240V)
• EV charger (240V)
• Air conditioner or heat pump
• Hot tub or pool equipment
• Home office or workshop equipment

Get a Quote for a Dedicated Circuit

EZSMART installs dedicated circuits for residential and commercial clients across Ontario. We assess your panel capacity, measure the circuit run, and provide a clear price before any work begins. All ESA permits and inspections are included in our quotes.

Contact us today to schedule a visit for your dedicated circuit installation.

Amir Azimipour

Electrician Since 2008 Journeyman Electrician Designated Master Electrician at EZSMART Corp