Question 1

How much does it cost to replace an electrical circuit panel near Falls Church?

Accepted Answer

There are several options for upgrading or replacing your existing panel, each with its own set of prices. Most homeowners pay roughly $2,500 to replace an old panel with a new model and new housing. Upgrades to a 100 amp unit with no housing can cost as little as $800, or as much as $10,000 for a new 400 amp system with new housing.

Question 2

Is rewiring a house worth it in Falls Church?

Accepted Answer

Although the cost of rewiring a house may appear prohibitively expensive when purchasing a property, owners of older homes with antiquated wiring systems may realize that the typical cost of rewiring a house is money well spent.

It's probably worth it to rewire your home if your electrical system is outdated. Replacing old wiring can help avoid a house fire while also potentially increasing the property's value. Updated, energy-efficient fixtures are often included in a renovation work of this nature and might potentially cut the homeowner's utility expenditures, however, they are not normally included in the average cost to rewire a house.

Question 3

Why does my breaker suddenly keep tripping near Falls Church?

Accepted Answer

Circuit overload, ground fault, and short circuit are the three basic causes for your circuit breaker to trip, all of which are surprisingly frequent.

It's a good idea to hire a professional electrician if your circuit breaker keeps tripping. Short circuits and ground faults may be detected and safely repaired by an electrician. He or she will also be the best person to service your electrical panel and replace any breakers that are undersized, broken, old, or otherwise on the verge of failing.

Question 4

What is the average cost of an electrical panel upgrade near Great Falls?

Accepted Answer

The average cost of replacing an electric panel ranges between $850 and $2,500. This range is a little broad because it depends on how many amps your house requires, as well as whether you are trying to replace an existing panel or putting in a new one.

Question 5

What are the indicators that a home may need a heavy-up near Great Falls?

Accepted Answer

Every electrical panel has a limited capacity. If it's a 100-amperage panel, it can only supply 100 amps and no more. When your electricity consumption requirements exceed the capacity of the panel, you will require a heavy up. Here are the top five signs your home may need an electrical heavy-up.

You still have an electrical panel with fuses.
When you turn on appliances, the lights flicker (especially the ones that consume more power).
To the touch, the electrical panel is extremely hot.
Noise is coming from the outlets.
You haven't replaced your panels in over 25 years.

Question 6

Why would I need an electrical inspection near Great Falls?

Accepted Answer

These are the most common reasons why you may need an electrical inspection:

You're buying a new house
You are selling your home
Your house is over 40 years old
When you add new appliances that require more energy

A residential electrical inspection is a thorough examination of an electrical system's components, circuit breakers, air panels, conduits, electrical boxes, and even electrical appliances. If your situation matches any of the above or even if you just need extra peace of mind, an electrical inspection is well worth the money.

Question 7

How much does an electrical panel circuit breaker upgrade cost near Washington, DC?

Accepted Answer

An electrical panel replacement costs $1,187 on average, with a usual range of $533 to $1,940. This includes all materials and labor. Upgrades to 400-amp service are more expensive, ranging from $1,500 to $4,000. Upgrades that maintain the same amperage and wiring cost less.

Question 8

Is it worth upgrading an electrical panel?

Accepted Answer

If your panel is over 20 years old, it is smart to go ahead and upgrade it. Electrical fires are frequently caused by outdated or overburdened electrical panels. A panel like this poses a threat to your family and house. Upgrading your panel is a worthwhile investment since it will safeguard your family from fires caused by a defective electric system.

Question 9

Can I upgrade my electrical panel myself?

Accepted Answer

No. You should always have a licensed electrician upgrade your electrical panel. Working with electricity is dangerous and requires training in the safe handling of wires and circuits. If you don’t have that training, you put yourself at risk of debilitating or even deadly electrical shocks. Plus, if your panel upgrade isn’t done by a licensed electrician and ends up suffering damage due to an electrical fire, your homeowner’s insurance may not cover the damages.

Question 10

What is involved in an electrical panel upgrade?

Accepted Answer

An Electrical Panel Upgrade is a service that involves replacing the present electrical service panel with a new one that includes new circuit breakers. The procedure of updating your primary service panel is known as the Main Panel Upgrade (MPU). If you are having this service, please be prepared to be without electricity for the length of the project.

Typically, a panel can operate correctly for 20 to 30 years, but you should examine it on a regular basis since we are using more power than ever before and your 20-year-old panel may not be able to manage that amount of energy.

Question 11

What do most electricians charge per hour near Hyattsville?

Accepted Answer

On average, hiring an electrician costs around $75 per hour, with typical prices ranging from $50 to $100 per hour. More extensive improvements, such as replacing an electrical panel or rewiring the property, cost between $2,000 and $6,000 or more. The hourly rate for hiring an electrician is determined by the electrician's level of expertise and the type of work to be performed. The electrician's hourly rate is not the final charge. There could be extra expenses for supplies and components, perhaps a travel charge and any fees for anybody else who worked on the task with them. Be sure to ask questions up front so there are no surprises! Precise Building Services provides Hyattsville area homes and businesses with professional electrician services. Give us a call to schedule an appointment.

Question 12

When should you upgrade your electrical panel?

Accepted Answer

Electric panels generally need to be replaced every 25-40 years, so if your home is that old, you may need to change. Faulty wiring is one of the major causes of house fires in the United States. In general, the older the wiring, the more likely it is to be defective, but having your electric panel tested by a skilled electrician on a regular basis will uncover any concerns. If you see any of the following in your house, there's a good probability it's due to a wiring problem:

Lights or other equipment that flicker.
Appliances, you may get minor electric shocks.
Burning smells that can’t be explained.
Scorch marks around outlets.
The electrical panel is warm or hot to the touch.

If your electrical panel is aging and ready for an upgrade, give Precise Building Services a call. Our licensed electricians are here to help.

Question 13

Can I replace my electrical breaker box myself?

Accepted Answer

We strongly urge you to avoid it. When working with an electrical panel, you are dealing with live energy at high voltage levels. In other words, it's an extremely risky process in which a single error can result in significant injury or even death. Furthermore, the procedure of replacing an electrical panel is rather difficult. If you are upgrading a breaker box, you will most likely be installing new wires as well as an electricity meter. Working inside an electrical panel is risky and should only be done by a professional and certified electrician. If your breaker box needs to be replaced, contact a licensed electrician like Precise Building Services. We have the knowledge and skills to safely replace your electrical breaker box.

Question 14

What does it mean when a circuit breaker won't reset near Bethesda?

Accepted Answer

If the circuit breaker won’t reset and trips quickly, the problem might be a short circuit. A short circuit happens when a current-carrying hot wire comes into contact with a neutral wire. In this scenario, the flipped breaker provides a safety measure and confirmation that your circuit breaker is functioning correctly. A short circuit can result in damaged equipment, overheating or even a fire danger. If you believe a short circuit is causing your circuit breaker to trip, turn it off and contact a qualified electrician.

Question 15

What is involved in an electrical inspection near Bethesda?

Accepted Answer

An electrical inspection examines your complete electrical system, verifying that all electrical cables, systems and components (such as appliances) satisfy regulatory safety requirements. The National Electrical Code (NEC) is the code that all licensed electricians use when inspecting your house, and it establishes the limits for minimum requirements across the United States. Here are just some of the items included in a typical inspection of your electric system:

Checking the correct wattage of a light bulb.
The functioning and condition of switches and wall outlets.
Hazards of electric shock or electrocution.
Interrupters (AFCIs) are working properly.
Grounding system confirmation.

Question 16

How much does it cost to upgrade your electrical panel near Bethesda?

Accepted Answer

The average cost of replacing an electrical panel is $1,180, with a usual range of $536 to $1,932. You'll spend extra if you need 400-amp service or want to install numerous units. Upgrades that maintain the same amperage and wiring cost the least amount. The cost of hiring an electrician to do the job is between $50 and $100 per hour nationwide. Clients should budget between $200 and $2,000 for project labor. A typical update takes 4 to 8 hours to finish. This excludes rewiring or the installation of new wiring.

Question 17

How much is a heavy up?

Accepted Answer

Most houses have a 100- to 150-amp service. However, for many people, the expense of upgrading to 200-amp service, also known as a heavy up, is readily justified. This is especially true if you work from home, are expanding your home or have accepted that running many appliances at once is a need rather than a luxury.

Provided you have an existing electrical panel that doesn't need to be completely replaced, the cost of upgrading to a 200-amp service is between $750 and $2,000. This pricing covers both the box and the installation.

Question 18

What is the going rate for an electrician near Takoma Park?

Accepted Answer

Licensed electricians might charge between $50 and $100 per hour, based on their degree of expertise, license type and the intricacy of the project. This does not include any additional expenditures for components or fixtures.

Question 19

Who can change out an electrical panel near Takoma Park?

Accepted Answer

You should always have a licensed electrician upgrade your electrical panel. This is not something you should attempt to DIY. Your local electrician will be up to date on the information in the 2020 National Electrical Code. The National Fire Protection Association publishes the National Electric Code (NEC), which is widely acknowledged as the standard for the safe installation of electrical wiring and equipment across the United States. Furthermore, your homeowner's insurance may not cover any injuries or damage you experience as a result of DIY electrical repairs.

Question 20

How do you know if a circuit breaker needs to be replaced near Takoma Park?

Accepted Answer

If your circuit breakers are constantly tripping, this is one of the tell-tale symptoms that something is wrong with your breaker panel. While some individuals deal with this issue by simply turning their circuit breakers off and back on, this is only a temporary solution. If this is a recurring issue, it might become a significant issue that leads to a fire in your house.

Also, if you haven't already, you should check to see how old your breaker box is. If your house is older, your circuit breaker panel might be as well! If your home has undergone any electrical modifications (even before you bought it), but your circuit breaker panel was not changed, it's probably time to replace it.

Question 21

How much does it cost to install a new electrical panel?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the amperage, the typical cost to replace an electrical panel ranges from $850 to $2,500. A 100-amp service panel upgrade costs between $850 and $1,600, a 200-amp breaker box replacement costs between $1,800 and $2,500, and a 400-amp electrical service upgrade costs between $2,000 and $4,000.

Question 22

How much does it cost to have an electrician install recessed lighting near Rockville?

Accepted Answer

Recessed can or canless LED light installation will typically cost between $200 and $250 per fixture. Each installation takes roughly 2 to 2.5 hours, and professionals charge between $85 and $105 per hour.

Question 23

How much should I pay someone to install a ceiling fan near Rockville?

Accepted Answer

The national average for a simple ceiling fan installation is $248, but it can cost anywhere from $144 to $360. The cost of installing a fan can increase to $600 if the installation is complicated or the location is challenging to reach. Although labor costs can vary depending on where you are, they typically range between $50 and $200.

Question 24

How often should electrical panels be checked near Rockville?

Accepted Answer

Depending on how old your house is and how many devices you have inside, you should have your electrical system inspected on a regular basis. The majority of electricians advise every 3 to 5 years. At least twice a year, you should test your GFCI outlets at home by pressing the test/reset button.

Question 25

What are the most common causes of electrical problems for homes near Washington, DC?

Accepted Answer

One of the most common causes of electrical issues in a home is frequent electrical surges. A variety of events, including lightning, defective appliances, damage to exterior power lines and poor electrical wiring can produce electrical surges in the home. Though an electrical surge only lasts a second or two, it can cause damage to a range of electrical components connected to your home, particularly bigger home equipment such as refrigerators, computers and air conditioning systems.

Question 26

How do you troubleshoot electrical problems in your home?

Accepted Answer

Here are a few typical problems and their likely causes:

Light switches that are broken. Do any of your light switches not work? Old switches can wear out over time, but if the light won't come on at all, there could be a connection issue.
Non-operational outlets. First, ensure that the problem is with the outlet and not with your appliance. Typically, a receptacle must be changed, which is a simple remedy.
Fixtures with flickering lights. Is the light bulb correctly screwed in? If a replacement bulb does not fix this vexing problem, there may be a problem with your wiring.
Power surges occur often. If a light flickered when you plugged in the vacuum cleaner, you are suffering a power surge issue. This can shorten the life of your appliances and typically indicates that your electrical system lacks the power to support equipment that requires a lot of amps to work.

Question 27

How do I know if my home’s electrical system is up-to-date?

Accepted Answer

The average electrical panel has a lifespan of 20-40 years. That range is quite broad, but because not all electrical panels are built with the same quality, it is tough to narrow it down. In any case, around the 20-year mark, you should start getting your electrical panel tested to ensure it is in good working order.

Question 28

How much does electrical troubleshooting typically cost?

Accepted Answer

On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $50 to $150 per hour for electrical troubleshooting services. However, the total cost may also include additional fees for materials, permits, and any necessary repairs or replacements. It's advisable to obtain quotes from licensed electricians to get a more accurate estimate based on your specific situation.

Question 29

What are the consequences of neglecting electrical issues?

Accepted Answer

Neglecting electrical issues can lead to serious consequences, including increased fire hazards due to faulty wiring or overloaded circuits. Malfunctioning outlets or appliances may pose a risk of electric shock, while damaged electronics and appliances can result in property damage. Additionally, inefficient electrical systems can lead to higher energy costs. Neglected electrical issues may also lead to code violations and fines. It's crucial to address electrical problems promptly to mitigate these risks and ensure safety.

Question 30

What is involved in an electrical inspection?

Accepted Answer

Electrical inspections come in a variety of forms, but they always fall into one of three categories. The first is a rough electrical examination, which will look at cables, conduits and electrical panels and boxes. An inspector will ensure that all wires are in good condition and that all fire risks around conduits and electrical panels have been removed.

The service inspection is the second sort of electrical examination. A qualified inspector will examine the electrical service panel during this inspection to check that it has been correctly installed and secured. During this time, the inspector will also verify the electrical service panel to ensure that it is properly grounded. You face the danger of electric shock if your panel isn't properly grounded.

The third and final inspection is referred to as the final inspection. Breakers will be installed or tested during installation to guarantee a fully working electrical system. An inspector may run the electrical system through a series of tests to ensure its safety and efficacy.

Question 31

Are electrical inspections a legal requirement?

Accepted Answer

Yes, electrical inspections are a legal requirement. While the small details in regulations and requirements may vary from state to state, all 50 states have some form of electrical inspection standards for all new construction.

Private landlords must have every electrical installation in their residential property inspected and tested by a certified and competent person every 5 years.

Question 32

Why do I need an electrical inspection?

Accepted Answer

Electrical examinations look at your home's power capacity and safety. To put it another way, can your home safely meet the power demands you place on it? A professional electrical inspection will detect any possible problems with your electrical system that might put your family in danger, such as defective wiring, toxic chemicals, overloaded fuses or circuit boxes that could cause an electrical fire. It's also against the law to not have an inspection.

Question 33

How is residential electrical wiring inspection service done?

Accepted Answer

A qualified master electrician performs house electrical inspections to ensure that the home's electrical system is up to code and safe to use. They evaluate every component of your home's electrical system, including the outlet connections and wiring within the walls, attic or crawl space, breaker box and exterior. Your main service panel, as well as any extra sub-panels, must be checked and examined in preparation for an update.

After your inspection, the electrician should provide you with a complete written report outlining the present state of your system and any necessary repairs or improvements. You'll also get a cost estimate, which you may use for insurance claims, negotiating a house purchase price or simply for your own records.

Question 34

What happens if I think the electrical wiring in my home is damaged by a storm near Washington DC?

Accepted Answer

If you suspect that the electrical wiring in your home has been damaged by a storm, it's important to take immediate action to ensure the safety of your home and your family. Here are some steps to follow:

Turn off the power to your home: If you notice any sparks, smoke, or other signs of electrical damage, turn off the power to your home at the main electrical panel.
Call a licensed electrician: It's important to have a licensed electrician inspect your electrical wiring to assess the extent of the damage and make any necessary repairs.
Avoid using electrical appliances or devices: Until the electrical wiring has been inspected and repaired, avoid using any electrical appliances or devices to prevent further damage or potential safety hazards.
Document the damage: Take photos or videos of any visible damage to your electrical wiring and appliances for insurance purposes.
Contact your insurance provider: If the damage is significant, contact your insurance provider to report the damage and begin the claims process.

By taking these steps, you can help to ensure that your electrical system is safe and functioning properly after a storm.

Question 35

What happens if an inspector finds electrical safety violations during an inspection?

Accepted Answer

If an electrical safety inspection finds code violations or safety issues, the inspector will typically provide a detailed report outlining the specific problems that need to be addressed. Depending on the severity of the violations, the inspector may issue a warning or citation, requiring the property owner or manager to correct the issues within a specified timeframe. In some cases, particularly if the violations pose an immediate safety risk, the inspector may recommend temporarily shutting down or disconnecting the electrical system until the necessary repairs or modifications are made to bring it up to code and ensure safety.

Question 36

How much does it cost to hire an electrician to install recessed lighting?

Accepted Answer

An electrician will typically charge between $200 and $250 per fixture to install recessed can or canless LED lights. Professionals charge $85 to $105 per hour, and each installation takes around 2 to 2.5 hours.

Question 37

How much does an electrician charge to hang a chandelier?

Accepted Answer

Most electricians charge between $100 and $200 to replace an outdated chandelier with a new one (not including the cost of the chandelier). Installing a new chandelier where one does not already exist might cost anywhere from $300 to $2,000 or more (again, not including the chandelier itself).

Question 38

Do I need an electrician to install a ceiling fan?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Fan installation needs a specialist’s understanding of electrical and wiring, as well as specialized equipment and the necessary materials. Attempting to install a ceiling fan on your own is not only risky for you and your family, but it may also cause significant damage to your property.

Question 39

Why are my lights dimming and brightening?

Accepted Answer

You might be dealing with a more serious issue if the lighting in your home alternates between bright and dim. Your circuit breaker may have a loose or corroded neutral wire. Your lights are receiving too much voltage when they get brighter, and not enough voltage when they get dim. Your electrical devices could end up getting too much or too little power and suffer damage if this issue worsens. Fires and other safety risks are primarily caused by loose or problematic connections. Get in touch with an electrician as soon as you can.

Question 40

Why do my neighbors have power but I don't?

Accepted Answer

There are several reasons why this may be the case. For instance, you might be on a different transformer or distribution line than your neighbors. Additionally, before your power is restored, it might be necessary to fix any damage to your service line. Finally, before power is restored, it might be necessary to fix any damage to your home's electrical wiring.

Question 41

What to do when your house loses power?

Accepted Answer

To find out if a breaker tripped, check your main electrical panel. Fuses prevent circuits from overheating, which could start a fire or harm equipment. Try to determine what brought about the issue. Before turning the circuit breaker back on, disconnect everything from that circuit. You should hire an electrician if you frequently trip the same circuit breaker.

If none of your circuit breakers have tripped, the issue is probably more widespread. Look outside and see if there are streetlights on. Ask your neighbors if they are having any issues. If there are widespread issues you should contact your utility company to report the outage.

Question 42

What causes most power outages?

Accepted Answer

Most power outages are caused by external factors such as severe weather conditions, including thunderstorms, hurricanes, snowstorms, or high winds. These events can damage power lines, transformers, and other electrical infrastructure, leading to widespread outages. Other common causes include equipment failures, such as transformer malfunctions or overloads, and accidents like vehicle collisions with utility poles. Additionally, planned outages for maintenance or repairs by utility companies can also result in temporary loss of power.

Question 43

What appliances should I unplug during a power outage?

Accepted Answer

During a power outage, it's advisable to unplug these appliances:

Electronics (TVs, computers, gaming consoles)
Kitchen appliances (microwave, coffee maker, toaster)
Washers and dryers
Air conditioners
Electric heaters
Stereo systems
Chargers (phone, laptop)

Reasons for unplugging:

Protect against power surges when electricity returns
Prevent potential fire hazards
Avoid overloading the system when power is restored

Leave one light on to know when power returns. For critical medical equipment, consult manufacturer guidelines or use a surge protector.

Question 44

What are the signs of a bad circuit breaker?

Accepted Answer

Knowing the indicators that a circuit breaker is faulty could save you and your family from potential fire danger. Here are some of the most important signs. First, if you've seen flashing or flickering lights on a consistent basis, this could be a sign of trouble. If you have light bulbs that burn out quickly and must be replaced on a regular basis or if you’re getting a burning electrical stench coming from your panel, these could be incidactors as well. Finally, if you are experiencing frequent circuit breaker tripping this needs to be heeded as a possible sign of a circuit breaker that may need replacing.

Question 45

What is the lifespan of a circuit breaker?

Accepted Answer

A circuit breaker's life expectancy is estimated to be 30 to 40 years by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), and the same is true for GFCI, AFCI, and conventional breakers. Because a breaker is a mechanical device, it will be shortened by damp or corrosive environments. A dry, indoor setting with temperate temperatures, on the other hand, will lengthen its life.

Question 46

How do I reset my circuit breaker?

Accepted Answer

Locate your breaker box, usually a silverish metal in color. Open the metal door and search for a bank of switches organized in rows. Look for the breaker whose switch lever has moved from the ON position to the OFF position. The majority of circuit breakers include an orange or red marker window that indicates when they have tripped.

To rejoin your circuit and restore power, turn the switch to the ON position. This reset process may entail pulling the breaker lever all the way to the OFF position and then back to the ON position with some circuit breaker types. As the breaker clicks to the ON position, you will sense resistance in the lever, followed by a characteristic clicking sound or feeling. Turn on lights and appliances one by one along the circuit while someone stands by the breaker box to watch whether the circuit breaker trips again. If it happens, it's time to consult an electrician since it means the circuit has a more significant problem.

Question 47

Can circuit breakers be repaired?

Accepted Answer

Circuit breakers might fail after many years of service. Because a defective breaker cannot be repaired, replacement is the only option. A circuit breaker that feels hot or smells like it's on fire should be replaced as fast as possible. Only a certified electrician should install a circuit breaker.

Question 48

Why is my microwave tripping the breaker in my home near Washington, DC?

Accepted Answer

There are a few potential reasons why a microwave might be tripping the breaker in your home:

Overloaded circuit: If the microwave is running on a circuit that is already overloaded, it can cause the breaker to trip. This is because the circuit is trying to supply more power than it can handle.

Faulty wiring: If there is faulty wiring in your home's electrical system, it can cause the breaker to trip when the microwave is turned on. This could be due to loose connections or damaged wires.

Defective microwave: If the microwave itself is defective, it could be drawing too much power and causing the breaker to trip. This could be due to a malfunctioning motor or other internal components.

If you're experiencing this issue, it's important to have a licensed electrician inspect your electrical system and microwave to determine the root cause of the problem. They may recommend upgrading your electrical system or replacing your microwave to prevent future issues.

Question 49

Can a faulty circuit breaker cause electrical fires?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a faulty circuit breaker can cause electrical fires. Circuit breakers are designed to protect your home by interrupting the flow of electricity in case of an overload or short circuit. If a breaker is faulty and fails to trip when it should, excessive electrical current can cause wires to overheat, potentially igniting an electrical fire. Regular inspections and maintenance of your electrical system, including circuit breakers, are essential to ensure they function properly and provide the necessary protection against fire hazards.

Question 50

How much do electrical contractors charge per hour near Washington, DC?

Accepted Answer

In the Washington, DC area, most electrical contractor pricing is fixed with costs determined per project. Some examples of project costs for electrical services might be priced as follows:

$280 per ceiling fan installation.

$200 for wiring a new outlet.

$300 to install or replace a new exhaust fan.

$200 to install a smoke detector system .

While you will see variations and changes in this pricing from contractor to contractor, you can count on Precise Building Services to keep your best interest and budget in mind. Contact us today to price your project.

Question 51

What should I look for when hiring an electrician near Washington, DC?

Accepted Answer

When hiring an electrical contractor near Washington, DC, you should look for the following things: licensure, experience, consumer trust, local business. First, you should always be sure the contractor is licensed and insured. This makes sure they have the skills necessary to perform the job at hand and that if anything goes wrong, you are covered. Another important thing to ask is about experience. Your electrician should have experience and positive reviews reflecting the quality of the service provided. If the job is specialized, ask if the contractor has that specialty and has done that kind of work before. Additionally, knowing that your electrician has the consumer’s trust is priceless. Finally, make sure that you go with a local business that knows the area and will have fair and competitive rates.

Precise Building Services is licensed and insured and specializes in all things residential including electrical services for single and multi family homes, electrical upgrades, and new construction. We are also adept at commercial services and have extensive experience in the commercial field. Contact us about electrical services for your home or business today.

Question 52

What circuit breakers are needed for a house near Washington, DC?

Accepted Answer

Most residential homes have 100 to 200-amp breaker boxes depending on the amount of electrical power the panel needs and the number of circuits that are on the main circuit breaker panel. Amperage is a measurement of the volume of electricity flowing through your wires and this can vary between 30 amps in older homes that have not had their electrical wiring updated to as much as 400 amps in a very large home with significant electrical needs.

To add circuits to your circuit breaker to accommodate the appliances of today or for any information about circuit breakers in the DC area contact Precise Building Services.

Question 53

What can I do to protect my home's electrical system from a storm in Washington, D.C.?

Accepted Answer

There are several steps you can take to protect your home's electrical system from a storm. Firstly, consider installing a whole-house surge protector to protect your home's electrical system from power surges. It's also a good idea to unplug any unnecessary electronic devices to prevent them from being damaged by a power surge. Ensure that any outdoor electrical equipment, such as air conditioning units or generators, is securely anchored and protected from flying debris. Additionally, trimming back any nearby trees or branches can help prevent damage from falling limbs. Finally, in the event of an approaching storm, it's important to turn off and unplug all electronics and appliances to reduce the risk of electrical fires or damage from lightning strikes.

Question 54

How early in the construction process should electrical planning begin?

Accepted Answer

Electrical planning should begin in the early stages of the construction process, ideally during the initial design phase. It's crucial to involve an electrical contractor or engineer as soon as the architectural plans are drafted. This early involvement allows for proper integration of electrical systems with other building components, ensures adequate power distribution, and helps identify potential challenges or conflicts. Early planning also facilitates cost estimation, permit acquisition, and consideration of future electrical needs. Preplanning can prevent costly redesigns or retrofits later in the project and ensures that the electrical infrastructure aligns with the overall building design and functionality.

Question 55

How can energy-efficient electrical systems be incorporated into new construction?

Accepted Answer

Energy-efficient electrical systems in new construction can be incorporated through several strategies. LED lighting with motion sensors and daylight harvesting can significantly reduce energy consumption. Smart home automation systems can optimize power usage. High-efficiency HVAC equipment and programmable thermostats improve climate control efficiency. Energy Star-rated appliances should be selected for all built-in kitchen equipment. Solar panel integration or prewiring for future installation can provide renewable energy. Proper insulation and energy-efficient windows complement these systems. Advanced metering and energy management systems allow for monitoring and adjusting power usage. These measures not only save energy but can also reduce long-term operating costs.

Question 56

How do you diagnose electrical problems in a house near Alexandria?

Accepted Answer

Here are three common electrical problems and what to do about them.

Strange odors - If you smell something strange emanating from an electrical outlet, unplug everything connected to it and don't use it again until a certified electrician has checked it. In addition, if your breaker panel or fuse box emits an unusual odor, contact an electrician immediately.
Arc faults - These occur when an electrical circuit deviates from its intended route, usually due to a flaw in the wiring. They are a common source of electrical fires. Arc faults can be avoided by installing a device known as an arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI).
Warm or sparking outlets - If your light switches feel warm to the touch or an outlet is sparking, contact a professional electrician immediately to determine whether your wiring needs to be repaired or the fixture should be replaced.

Precise Building Services provides expert electrical troubleshooting in Alexandria. Contact us with any electrical problems you’re having.

Question 57

What are three warning signs of an overloaded electrical circuit near Alexandria?

Accepted Answer

Overloaded electrical circuits are a leading cause of home fires. The good news is electrical fires may be easily avoided in your house. All you have to do is know what to look for. Here are three common signs of overloaded circuits in your home:

Lights that flicker, blink or fade.
Receptacles crackling, sizzling or buzzing.
Appliances, receptacles or switches may cause a little shock or tingling.

If you’re seeing signs of an overloaded electrical circuit in your Alexandria home, get in touch with us for diagnosis and repair today.

Question 58

What is a fair price for an electrician near Alexandria?

Accepted Answer

Normally, hourly and project fees vary based on the type of job and the service provider's licensing and expertise. Electricians often charge $50 to $100 per hour. Most homeowners pay an electrician between $162 and $522 to visit their house and handle electrical repairs. Travel, supplies and overhead are occasionally included in the hourly rate, however some electricians give a comprehensive line item bill that includes hourly rates apart from all other expenditures. If you’re looking for an electrician near Alexandria who you can trust, call Precise Building Services. We’re here to help.

Question 59

How much does an electrical heavy up cost?

Accepted Answer

A heavy-up to upgrade an electrical panel to a 200 amp service will typically cost between $1,000 and $3,000. The majority of the bill is made up of labor expenditures; while supplies are often inexpensive, it’s a labor-intensive project.

Question 60

How is the cost for an Electric Car Charging Station determined near Alexandria, VA?

Accepted Answer

The type of charging station, installation costs, and any additional features or services that may be included all affect how much an electric car charging station costs.

The least expensive option is typically level 1 charging stations, which are used for home charging and have slower charging rates. Level 2 charging stations are more expensive but are still reasonably priced despite being faster and more powerful. The most expensive option is DC fast charging stations, which offer the fastest charging rates.

The complexity of the installation and the location of the charging station can both affect the cost of installation. Costs may also increase with the addition of extra features like network connectivity or payment methods.

In order to choose the best charging station for your requirements and obtain an accurate cost estimate for the equipment and installation, it is crucial to consult with a licensed electrician or a professional charging station installer.

Question 61

How much does an electrical heavy up cost near Arlington?

Accepted Answer

Heavy ups cost around $1,000 to $3,000 to upgrade an outdated electrical system to a 200 amp service. It is not a DIY project. An expert, licensed electrician should be recruited for a heavy up for safety and code compliance. The job will include turning off the utility's electricity and then replacing the complete electrical service panel.

Question 62

Why do my lights keep flickering in my Arlington area home?

Accepted Answer

The following are the most common causes of flickering or blinking lights:

The lamp has a problem.

Light socket with a slack connection.

A faulty switch or dimmer is to blame.

When appliances or HVAC systems start-up, they use a lot of electricity, resulting in a voltage drop. Or there might be a more serious electrical problem. Even though the flickering appears to be inconsequential, it might be a symptom of a more significant underlying issue with your electrical wiring, which could pose a risk of fire in your house. Ignoring a lighting or electrical issue is never a wise idea. If easy troubleshooting fails, don't hesitate to contact us.

Question 63

How much does it cost to have an electrician install recessed lighting near Arlington?

Accepted Answer

Installing recessed can or canless LED lights by an electrician will cost between $200 and $250 per fixture. Professionals charge between $85 and $105 per hour, with each installation taking between 2 and 2.5 hours. Building lights into a fully new ceiling generally costs more in terms of time and labor—a single light fixture may cost up to $500, and a whole setup could cost between $800 and $2,880.

Question 64

How much does wire repair cost near Washington DC?

Accepted Answer

Many electricians will give a price per square foot for rewiring a home. Knowing whether the price you've been given is comparable to the national average is therefore helpful. Rewiring a home typically costs between $2 and $4 per square foot.

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