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Straight Answers From Licensed Hampton Roads Electricians
Whether you are planning a panel upgrade, getting ready for storm season, or trying to figure out why a breaker keeps tripping, start here.
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Fresh From the Blog
7 Signs Your Hampton Roads Home Needs an Electrical Panel Upgrade
Breakers that trip, lights that dim, a fuse box in the garage. Here are the seven signs we see most often in…
Read the guideWhole-Home Generators in Hampton Roads: A Homeowner’s Guide Before Storm Season
Hurricanes, nor'easters, and summer thunderstorms all knock out power in Hampton Roads. Here is what to know about sizing, fuel, and installing…
Read the guideWhole-Home Surge Protection: What Virginia Homeowners Should Know About the Electrical Code
The National Electrical Code now requires whole-home surge protection when a home's electrical service is installed or replaced. Here is what that…
Read the guidePopular Questions
What Hampton Roads Homeowners Ask Us Most
How do I know if I need a panel upgrade?
Common signs are breakers that trip often, a fuse box or 100-amp service, flickering lights, warm or rusty panels, and plans to add an EV charger, generator, hot tub, or major appliance. Some older panels, like Federal Pacific and Zinsco, are worth replacing on their own.
Is surge protection required by code?
The National Electrical Code requires whole-home surge protection for homes when the electrical service is installed or replaced, starting with the 2020 edition and continuing in 2023. If we upgrade your panel, surge protection is part of the job.
What size generator does my home need?
It depends on what you want to keep running. Some homeowners back up essentials like the refrigerator, sump pump, and a few circuits, while others want the whole house including central air. We size it to your home and your list.
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes. We look at the job, explain your options, and give you a clear, upfront price before any work starts, so there are no surprises on the final bill.
Do I need a permit for electrical work in Virginia?
Many jobs do, including panel upgrades, new circuits, generators, and EV chargers. Permits and inspections go through your city, such as Chesapeake, Norfolk, or Virginia Beach. When a job needs a permit, we take care of it and schedule the inspection.
What counts as an electrical emergency?
A burning smell, smoke, sparking outlets or panels, a panel that is hot to the touch, electrical equipment exposed to water, or a partial loss of power that is not explained by a tripped breaker. For a fire or a downed line, call 911 and Dominion Energy first.
Still have questions?
Call our licensed electricians or request a free, upfront estimate.
