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Frequently Asked Questions
This section is dedicated to keeping homeowners informed. Here, you will find answers to common questions asked by homeowners. The goal of this section is to bring peace of mind to new and veteran home owners.
Your rights as a homeowner in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania does not prohibit homeowners from doing electrical work on their own property. Repairing outlets, switches, adding lights, adding an outlet or replacing a breaker are all within your rights as a homeowner. More advanced work may require a permit - this is so that a qualified inspector can double check your work and make sure its safe and up to par. Most inspectors are very nice and will tell you exactly what you need to pass their inspection, so don't be discouraged from consulting your local electrical inspector - they likely wont draw blue prints for you, but they will tell you exactly what needs done to pass the inspection during their visit. Please note that simply because you are the homeowner does not make you qualified to make electrical repairs in your home. Click here to view PA code 403.42
What type of power is available in my house?
Homes, apartments, trailers and temporary campers in the United states use Single Phase 120/240v at 60hz. (Also known as split phase).
Yes, your home has two 120v wires powering your electrical panel, together they equal 240v (commonly referred to 220v, 230v 240, 250v). Your amperage is dependent on what size service entrance your home has.
The amperage is the only option for upgrade. If you need 3 phase, we can install a phase converter in your home.
What size panel do I have?
Inside your main electrical panel are breakers (or fuses). The largest breaker which is usually at the very top or bottom will typically say 60a, 100a, 150a or 200a. Click here for more information on identifying your homes service size.
Should I upgrade my Panel?
Ask yourself these questions, how often do you have to go and reset the main breaker of your house? Do you have a hot tub, electric radiant heat in every room, electric heat pumps, electric stove, electric dryer, electric water heater, electric car charger? If you dont plan to add anything to the house that draws significant amperage like the items listed above, then you're probably fine.
Knob and Tube Wiring
Knob and tube wiring was one of the very first concepts invented for distributing power throughout a persons home.
Tubes of porcelain were used to safely pass wire through wooden studs and joists, and knobs are porcelain hangers nailed to studs and joists that allow the wire to be secured and run along side the stud/joist.
We offer a few knob and tube remediation services - please schedule an appointment to learn more.
Home Electrical Evaluation
Safety and Peace of mind go hand in hand. Our entry level inspection begins at $225 (60 minute inspection), and our multi-point inspection tops at $1,650 (10 hour inspection) - this includes every outlet, switch and connection visually inspected and fault tested where possible - water bond, ground bond and natural gas line bond inspection for connection and correct conductor size, thermal imaging of your panel and outdoor electrical service connection. Lastly your panel gets re-certified by our licensed PA state inspector.
We will look for things like corroded outlets, reverse polarity, general safety hazards, correct grounding techniques by 2023 standards and child safety measures. The report is generated and delivered to you after payment is processed.