When is it time to call an electrician? When you are resetting circuit breakers or changing fuses too often. When you turn on your air conditioner and the lights dim in the room. When your lights flicker or go on and off. When you can smell electricity burning. When you have six electronic devices going into one outlet in back of your electronics center. When you have receptacle outlets overburdened by multi-plug strips. When a three-prong plug needs a two-prong adapter. When you have to run countless extention cords to plug in electrical devices. When you need something installed. When you are in over your head that's the time you need to call an electrician. Back to Top What size service should I get installed? With all the new electronic devices, air conditioning and electric heat, we would suggest 200 amps especially in new homes. This also gives you some space for future additions. This is not a job for an unlicensed person to attempt. In most cases it involves replacing everything from the service loop (this is the wire that extends from the top of your meter to the utility tie in) up to and including the main panel. Back to Top How much should I attempt on my own? Currently, most cities and towns allow you to do whatever you want in your own home. But doing electrical work yourself is a gamble. How much are you willing to risk to save money? There is a reason why it takes so much training to become an electrician. Do not make a mistake by taking electricity lightly; even the smallest job could be a dangerous safety hazard. Why take a chance? Get a professional to do this work. Also, if you decide to do work in your house, in case of damage or fire caused by your work, the homeowners insurance will not pay. They will only compensate you if the work is done by a licensed Electrical Contractor. Back to Top How many convenience outlets should there be in each room? In every kitchen, family room, dining room, living room, parlor, library, den, bedroom, or similar room or area of dwelling units, receptacle outlets should be installed so that at no point along the floor line in any wall space there are more than six feet between outlets in that space. This is to prevent the use of extension cords. Outlets are usually placed about 18 inches above floor level. Switches usually go about 48 inches from floor level. For convenience outlets each single receptacle in a single branch circuit is usually figured for 1.5 amps, duplex outlets for 3 amps in estimating total amperage for that circuit. Air conditioners should be on a single dedicated circuit. Back to Top What if I am not satisfied with your service? If you are unsatisfied for any reason, you are encouraged to call the office to discuss your concerns. We want to know how we can serve you better! Back to Top Is there a charge for on-site estimates? No, estimates are absolutely free of charge. Back to Top There is a humming noise coming from my panel. What does this mean? This could be the result of a defective breaker. Replacement should be immediate as this defective breaker could cause serious harm to electrical components. Back to Top Can I plug a new refrigerator in anywhere? We suggest a dedicated circuit for refrigerators. They have an extensive amp draw. They should not be GFCI protected like a lot of receptacles found in kitchens and garages. A dedicated circuit will protect your freezer or fridge from being tripped and destroying anything inside. Back to Top Why do my smoke detectors chirp? This could indicate a defective smoke detector. This could also be telling you that the battery life is low or gone. Note, if you mix brand name smoke detectors, they may not be able to communicate if one goes off. This is a serious matter. If you do replace one of your smoke detectors, make sure it is compatible with the others in your home. Back to Top | 
