Our FAQ

Licensed electricians complete years of training and apprenticeship, hold valid certifications, and carry insurance to protect your property. They understand building codes, safety standards, and complex electrical systems.

Key differences include:

• Licensed electricians can legally perform installations, major repairs, and permitted work
• They carry liability insurance and workers' compensation
• Their work meets building codes and passes inspections
• Handymen can only handle minor tasks legally

Using a licensed electrician ensures your work is done safely, meets code requirements, and won't void your insurance or cause problems with your property.

Your electrical panel likely needs upgrading if you experience:

• Frequent circuit breaker trips
• Flickering lights when appliances or equipment run
• Burning smells near the panel
• Visible rust or corrosion
• A panel over 25 years old
• Reliance on extension cords due to insufficient outlets

Older panels often can't handle modern power demands from air conditioning, electric vehicles, home offices, or business equipment. Upgrading improves safety, supports new appliances and devices, and prevents electrical fires.

Common warning signs include:

• Circuit breakers that trip repeatedly
• Lights that dim when equipment or appliances start
• Warm or discolored outlets and switches
• Buzzing sounds from electrical panels or fixtures
• Insufficient power for new equipment or devices
• Burning smells from outlets or panels

These issues indicate your electrical system may be undersized, outdated, or deteriorating. Ignoring these signs can lead to equipment damage, safety hazards, and potential fire risks. A licensed electrician can diagnose the problem and recommend solutions.

Knob and tube wiring poses serious safety risks because:

• It lacks grounding protection
• Insulation has degraded after decades of use
• It cannot safely handle modern electrical loads
• Building insulation causes dangerous overheating

The biggest danger occurs when wall or attic insulation covers the wiring, preventing heat dissipation and creating fire hazards. Many insurance companies refuse coverage or charge higher premiums for properties with knob and tube wiring. While code may not always require removal, replacing outdated wiring protects occupants and makes your property insurable and sellable.

LED lighting offers substantial benefits:

• Use significantly less energy than traditional lighting
• Last much longer, reducing replacement and maintenance costs
• Produce less heat, lowering cooling expenses
• Require fewer bulb changes, saving time and labor

Many utility companies and government programs offer rebates for LED upgrades, reducing upfront costs. LED systems are particularly beneficial for spaces with long operating hours or hard-to-reach fixtures. The energy savings add up quickly, making LEDs a smart investment for homes and businesses.

Professional electrical inspections are recommended:

• Every 3-5 years for typical properties
• Every 1-2 years for older buildings or heavy electrical use
• Before purchasing property
• After renovations or major equipment installations
• When experiencing any electrical issues
• If your property is over 25 years old without recent updates

Regular inspections identify safety hazards, code violations, capacity issues, and equipment deterioration before they cause emergencies. Many insurance policies and local codes require periodic electrical inspections. Proactive inspections prevent costly emergency repairs and keep your property operating safely.