Questions
Panels, permits, the power day and the paperwork
How do I know if my panel needs replacing?
Start with the label. Federal Pacific and Zinsco are the two we usually quote to replace. Breakers that trip often, a burning smell, scorch marks and a house from before the 1960s are other reasons to have it looked at. A second opinion is fine with us.
How long will the power be off?
For a typical replacement, part of a day. The quote gives the hours, and we book the utility's disconnect and reconnect with you ahead of time.
Do I need a permit, and who pulls it?
A panel replacement needs one from your city's building department. We pull it, book the inspection and meet the inspector.
Why does my breaker keep tripping?
A circuit may be overloaded, there may be a short, or the breaker may be failing. Don't hold a breaker on or tape it. Text us a photo, and we will tell you whether it needs a visit.
Do I need a bigger panel for an EV charger or a heat pump?
It depends on a load check: what the house draws now and what you want to add. We run it at the visit and write down the answer.
Will my insurer care about my panel?
Some insurers ask about Federal Pacific and Zinsco panels, and some ask for a replacement. Ask yours. We can write up the panel and the work for them.
Are you licensed and insured, and how do I check?
Yes. The license line is in the footer of every page. Its class, C-10, is California's electrical contractor license. Look the number up on the state board's site, cslb.ca.gov.
What if you find something else behind the panel?
We stop, show you with photos, and write the change down before we do it. The new total is in writing before we go on.
Do you take calls at night?
No. We answer Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you see fire or smoke, call 911. If it is safe, turn off the breaker, and call us when the office opens.