Our FAQ

Eastside Electrical

Common Questions About Electrical Work

What are the signs that my home needs electrical repairs?

Common warning signs include frequently tripped circuit breakers, flickering or dimming lights, warm outlets, burning smells near fixtures, or buzzing sounds from your panel. These issues indicate potential safety hazards that should be inspected by a licensed electrician.


Ignoring these signs can lead to electrical fires, equipment damage, or complete system failure. A professional inspection can identify the root cause and recommend appropriate repairs to restore safety and functionality.

Do I need to upgrade my electrical panel before installing an EV charger?

It depends on your current electrical capacity. Most EV chargers require a dedicated 240-volt circuit, and older panels may lack sufficient capacity to handle this additional load safely.



An electrician can assess your existing panel, calculate your total electrical demand, and determine if an upgrade is necessary. Properties with panels under 100 amps or homes built before 1990 often require upgrades to support EV charging alongside existing electrical needs

What's involved in converting from oil heat to electric heat?

The conversion involves removing your oil heating system and installing electric heating equipment like an electric furnace or heat pump, along with necessary wiring and circuits. The electrician will assess your electrical capacity, potentially upgrade your service, run new wiring, and ensure code compliance.


Benefits include eliminating oil deliveries and tank maintenance, reducing heating costs over time, and enjoying cleaner, more environmentally friendly heating. The process also removes the risk of oil spills and the hassle of monitoring fuel levels.



Can an electrician handle small jobs like installing outlets or light fixtures?

Yes, licensed electricians handle projects of all sizes. Small jobs include installing outlets, light fixtures, ceiling fans, outdoor lighting, and adding dedicated circuits for appliances.


Hiring a professional for even minor electrical work ensures safety, code compliance, and proper installation. DIY electrical work can create fire hazards, cause code violations, and potentially void your home insurance if problems arise.




Why do my circuit breakers keep tripping and what should I do about it?

Circuit breakers trip when they detect too much electrical current, which prevents overheating and electrical fires. Common causes include overloaded circuits, faulty appliances, short circuits, or outdated wiring that can't handle modern electrical demands.


If breakers trip occasionally, unplug some devices from that circuit. However, if they trip frequently or immediately after resetting, contact an electrician to diagnose the issue. Repeated tripping indicates a serious problem that could lead to electrical fires or equipment damage.



What are the benefits of upgrading to energy-efficient LED lighting?

LED lighting uses less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and lasts longer, significantly reducing electricity bills and replacement costs. LEDs also produce less heat, making them safer and more comfortable.


They're available in various colour temperatures to suit different spaces and provide instant full brightness without warm-up time. For homes and businesses looking to reduce energy costs and environmental impact, LED lighting offers one of the fastest returns on investment of any electrical upgrade.

Still have questions? We're here to help.