Getting A Project Estimate
Are estimates free?
We provide free estimates for most projects. For some jobs, we may be able to give you a ballpark price over the phone after a few questions. Other jobs may require one of our
estimators to come to your site and take pictures, measurements, etc. to give you an accurate price.
How much does it cost to upgrade my service?
It depends. A very common upgrade is to go from an existing 100 amp service to a new 200 amp service. This typically costs $2500- $3000. However, there may be extra expenses if you are going from an overhead service to an underground service. (and your utility allows it) It may be less if we are just swapping a panel and your meter and mast can remain as is.
What are your rates?
Our hourly rate is $105. A service call is $190 which covers our travel time to and from your location and up to 30 minutes on site. After the first 30 minutes, we start charging at our shop rate in 15-minute increments.
Should I get solar?
It depends on a few things. The biggest thing is your property layout. If you have a lot of shade or don’t have a good south facing location, then you might not be a good candidate. If you have a good location but an old roof, you may need to consider roof replacement in with your solar project. Lastly, you may want to consider a service upgrade depending on your goals. We do install solar systems but may also direct you to a reputable local installer. Unfortunately, there are some unscrupulous solar companies that may not have your best interests in mind. We can help you find a good installer and not just a good salesperson.
Should I get a backup generator?
Again, you guessed it- it depends. How reliable is your power and how long can your house operate without it? You may be just fine with a portable generator inlet installed correctly and power just a few essential circuits. This is sufficient for many customers. Other things that start to tip the scales toward an automatic whole-house generator include occupants that require medical equipment, elderly persons, periods of time that a home may be unoccupied, work-from-home requirements, as well as a homeowner’s tolerance for inconvenience. We’ll help you through the decision-making process based on your specific needs.
Can I help the electricians?
If you mean bring us a glass of water and some homemade cookies, then “Yes.” If you mean doing electrical work that is covered under our permit, then “No.” This would not be covered under our license or insurance. We may occasionally ask you to flip a switch or help us find an unlabeled breaker, otherwise, we can handle this.
Expectations
How The Process Works
I have an electrical emergency. What do I do?
If you encounter a downed wire or experience an electrical fire, call 9-1-1 first. Don’t move it, test it, smell it, or try to fix it. Once your utility or fire department has made your scene safe, you can start planning what’s next. If your electric gizmo just melted and you think something is unsafe, you can call either office. If it’s after regular business hours, still call the office number and follow the voicemail instructions. Please understand that we may not always have someone available for after-hours emergencies.
How do I schedule a job?
We try to be as flexible as possible to work on a time to get your project done. Once we have a date nailed down, we’ll reserve a spot in our schedule to complete your job. We try to start residential jobs no earlier than 8am, but commercial jobs we like to start as early as possible. If it is a bid job, we will typically schedule you once we receive 50% down. If your project is time and materials (T&M) we may invoice you at specific intervals during the process.
Should I get multiple bids?
Of course! It’s always helpful to get multiple bids on a project, however many of our customers
simply use us as they know they can trust us and enjoy working with us. Ensure you get enough detail in your estimates to make accurate comparisons.
What about change orders?
Change is inevitable. Whether you need an extra plug in the closet for your Roomba, or you decide you really do need a disco ball in your mancave, or you need smart lighting controls like the other cool kids – we’ll make sure you know what that means for your budget as well.
What about the Inflation Reduction Act credits and rebates?
There are tax incentives and rebates in the works for certain electrical upgrades. These include solar tax credits, and money for service upgrades, electric appliances, and heat pumps. These programs haven’t gone live yet but expect them soon. Some benefits should be available at the time of purchase. Others will be realized on your tax return. Stay tuned for further updates. We recommend talking with your tax professional for more information.