Questions most commonly asked

Why is my light switch hot?
If you notice that a light switch in your home is hot to the touch, that usually means too much electricity is running through it. Most wall switches are rated for 15 amps. However, many circuits are pulling 20 amps. If you’re overloading the switch, you have a serious fire risk and need to replace it with one that can handle the appropriate load.
 
How do I know if my electrical outlet is burning?
If you notice discolouration, a burning smell or a tingling sensation on touch then you could have a faulty outlet.
Electrical outlet burning is a serious issue in homes. If you think your outlet is burning, call a licensed electrician immediately.
 
Is a permit required for the electrical work I need?
All of our electricians are up to date on local permitting and coding policies. When we come to your house for a consultation, we will be able to tell you precisely what you need with regard to permits and coding.
 
What is a GFCI outlet?

GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. GFCI outlets are made to interrupt an electrical circuit if they sense that electricity is moving in places other than through the device that is plugged in. Let’s demonstrate this. When you connect a device like a hairdryer to an electrical outlet, it forms a closed loop of electricity known as a circuit. Electricity travels from the outlet to the hairdryer and returns to the outlet. Imagine a flaw exists in this loop—a damaged wire or a weak connection—electricity can then escape the circuit and travel toward the ground. This is referred to as a ground fault. If this occurs while you’re using the hairdryer, particularly near water in the bathroom, the electricity can pass directly through you. Conversely, if you submerge the device in water, the electricity will activate that water. If you place your hand in it, you’ll receive an electric shock. Even minor levels of electricity can lead to burns, cardiac harm, and fatalities. The Canadian Electric Code mandates the installation of a GFCI switch on any outlet close to water, including those in bathrooms and kitchens. The GFCI switch will shut off all electric supply to the circuit if it detects a ground fault, potentially saving your life.

Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Yes. All of our electricians are licensed, insured, and bonded. We also ensure they take routine training programs so they are current on the latest trends and permitting in the industry.  
 
What kind of electrical inspections do you do?
We provide a comprehensive array of electrical inspections, ranging from service evaluations to final assessments of new constructions. Our qualified professionals can perform evaluations for insurance needs, property transactions, and much more.
 
Can you help me find a more energy-efficient lighting system?
We are pleased to assist homeowners and business operators in choosing energy-efficient lighting options to help them reduce their electricity costs.
Contact us for a consultation, and we will work with you to assess and recommend solutions that align with your requirements and budget.
 
What is a Federal Pacific Electrical panel and if I have one do I need to have it replaced?
Federal Pacific Electrical panels are a type of electrical panel made by the Federal Pacific Electrical Company. Other Federal Pacific Electrical panels names include the Federal Pacific Electrical breaker box or the FPE Stab-Lok breaker. Many houses constructed between the 1940s and 1980s have these panels. These electrical panels have been tested and found to have high failure rates, with nearly a third showing some potentially hazardous breaker defect. If you have one of these panels in your residence we recommend having it replaced. To identify if you have a Federal Pacific Electrical panel click here.