Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Frequently Asked Questions About Electrical Services on Long Island, NY

At Stone Electric, we have a team of skilled, experienced residential and commercial electrical contractors. We want our clients to be able to make informed decisions about the electrical services they need. We’re always happy to answer any questions our clients have and provide them with the resources they need to understand better their options for electrical installations, upgrades, repairs, and new electrical systems. Read through the answers to these frequently asked questions about electrical services on Long Island, NY, and call us if you have a question that isn’t answered here.

General FAQs About Residential & Commercial Electrical Services

What is a licensed electrical contractor?

A licensed electrical contractor or licensed electrician is a professional who is authorized by the state to design, install, and maintain electrical systems. They have undergone extensive education and training, have gained valuable experience, and have passed state-administered examinations. They also comply with continuing education requirements and stay up to date on changing electrical codes, methods, and technologies.

When and why do I need a professional or licensed electrician?

You need a professional electrician if you see signs of electrical problems at your home or business. It isn’t safe to try to perform electrical work yourself. You can become injured, make your home or business unsafe, and face fines or fees due to non-compliance with local and national codes, OSHA requirements, and homeowner’s insurance policy regulations. Hire an electrician for new wiring or upgraded wiring, electrical panel upgrades, major appliance installation, electrical troubleshooting and diagnosis, electrical maintenance and repairs, and any electrical work that requires a permit.

What electrical services do you provide for Long Island businesses?

We offer comprehensive commercial electrical services, including LED lighting services, warehouse lighting, parking lot lighting, office lighting, commercial outdoor lighting, commercial holiday lighting, commercial electrical panel repairs and upgrades, commercial rewiring services, electrical maintenance and installations, electrical repairs, generator services, emergency lighting and exit light and sign services, and security and lighting control services.

What residential electrical services do you offer?

Our licensed residential electricians offer home electrical inspections, electrical maintenance and troubleshooting, electric repairs, whole house rewiring, electrical upgrades, landscape and outdoor lighting services, pool and spa wiring services, recessed lighting, EV charging installation, residential electrical panel services, smart home installation, holiday light installation, and generator services.

FAQs About Specific Electrical Installations and Repairs

How do I know if I need to replace vs. repair my electrical panel or breaker box?

Our experts will assess the age, placement, condition, safety, and performance of your electrical panel. We will test it to determine how safely it functions and how well it meets your needs. We can then determine if repair is possible, or if it would be safer, more efficient, and more convenient to upgrade your electrical panel. An upgrade allows your home to handle a larger electrical load and can support the installation of new appliances like an EV charger or new HVAC system.

What constitutes an electrical emergency?

An electrical emergency is a situation that causes electrical hazards that pose a threat to people, property, pets, and animals. The most common electrical emergencies are power outages, downed power lines, arcs or sparks from outlets or appliances, electrical fires, electric shock and electrocution, burning or fishy odors from electrical systems, scorch marks on outlets or electrical panels, outlets or panels that are warm to the touch, exposed or damaged wires, and cracking or popping coming from walls, wires, or electrical components.

What electrical appliances and systems do you repair?

We can repair almost any residential or commercial electrical system. We also repair some electrical appliances, including lights, generators, smart home systems, security systems, outlets and switches, lighting control systems, emergency and security lighting systems, lighted exit signs, EV chargers, pool and spa lighting, and more.

When should I upgrade an electrical component in my home?

We can inspect the component and give you our professional recommendations for repair or replacement. We may recommend a replacement if the system or device is unsafe, outdated, damaged beyond repair, inefficient, does not meet your needs, or requires frequent repairs, or if the cost of repairs is more than half the cost of a new system.

Do you offer electric vehicle charging station installation?

Yes, we offer EV charger installation for residential and commercial properties. We can install 110V, 240V, and 480V EV charging stations. We also offer EV charger maintenance and repairs.

Answers to Questions About Electrical Pricing & Estimates

How much will my electrical services cost?

The cost depends on the services provided, the cost of parts, and the extent of the problem. We will always provide you with a detailed estimate so that you know what to expect.

Do you provide free estimates for electrical services?

Yes, we offer free estimates for our services.

What should I do if I feel an estimate is too high?

If you feel an estimate is too high, you can shop around with other local electrical companies. We do everything possible to keep our pricing reasonable and competitive, and we will never nickel and dime you, overcharge you, or pressure you to agree to services you can’t afford.

FAQs About Electrical Safety & Compliance

What is an electrical safety inspection, and when do I need one?

An electrical safety inspection is a comprehensive assessment of each component of your home or business’s electrical system. We evaluate the installation, location, age, condition, safety, efficiency, and performance of each element. We then offer our professional recommendations for repairs and upgrades. You need an inspection if your home or commercial property is over 40 years old, you can’t remember the last time you had an inspection, or you’re concerned about electrical problems or electrical safety.

Why is my home’s aluminum wiring unsafe?

Aluminum wiring is at risk of thermal expansion, which can create loose connections that are at risk of corrosion and overheating. If this happens, there is a risk of an electrical fire in your home.

What are the signs that my electrical system isn’t safe?

The most common signs are frequent tripped breakers or breakers that won’t reset, a buzzing or popping noise from walls or wires, exposed or frayed wires, damaged wires, dimming or flickering lights, bulbs that burn out too quickly, a burning or fishy smell, scorch marks on outlets, loose outlets, no three-prong or GFCI outlets, sparks or arcs from outlets or appliances, warm outlets or electrical panels, damage to the electrical panel, improper installation, outdated materials, not enough outlets for your needs, water or rodent damage to the electrical system, and electric shocks or electrocution when using outlets or appliances.

Schedule Electrical Services or an Electrical Inspection

If you have questions that aren’t answered here, our friendly, knowledgeable team is happy to provide answers. Call us now or reach out to us online with questions or to schedule electrical services or an electrical inspection on Long Island, NY. We pride ourselves on our exceptional electrical work, extensive knowledge and skill, and unparalleled customer service.