Frequently Asked Questions

Faulty wiring, malfunctioning circuit breakers, and outdated electrical panels are among the most frequent problems. These issues can cause flickering lights, tripped breakers, or even safety hazards. At Brickman Electric Company, we perform thorough diagnostics to identify and repair these problems immediately.

A comprehensive inspection uses advanced tools to examine your entire electrical system for hazards and code compliance. The electrician assesses wiring, panels, outlets, and grounding, then provides safety recommendations. At Brickman Electric Company, we follow local Chapel Hill standards to ensure your system is safe and up to code.

Upgrade when you experience frequent breaker trips, plan major appliance additions, or have a panel over 25 years old. Modern homes require more power for electronics and EV chargers than older panels provide. We assess your current and future power needs before recommending panel replacement.

Installation includes assessing your electrical capacity, running dedicated wiring, mounting the charging unit, and ensuring code compliance. Most installations use Level 2 chargers for faster, more convenient home charging. At Brickman Electric Company, we use the latest technology to deliver reliable EV charging solutions.

It depends on your panel's available capacity and amperage. Many older homes need panel upgrades to safely handle the additional 40-60 amp load an EV charger requires. We perform a comprehensive assessment to determine if upgrades are necessary before installation.

Overloaded circuits, short circuits, ground faults, or aging breakers are the typical causes. If a breaker trips repeatedly, it signals a problem that needs professional diagnosis. Ignoring frequent trips can lead to electrical fires or equipment damage.

Backup generators automatically detect power loss and switch on within seconds, supplying electricity to critical circuits or your entire home. They run on natural gas or propane and require proper installation and system assessment. At Brickman Electric Company, we set up complete backup power solutions for uninterrupted service.

Rewiring replaces old or damaged wiring throughout your home, while upgrades add capacity for modern power demands like smart devices or EV chargers. Both ensure safety and code compliance, but rewiring is more extensive. We assess your system to recommend the right solution.

Flickering usually indicates an overloaded circuit, loose wiring, or undersized electrical service. Large appliances draw significant power, causing voltage drops on shared circuits. This issue often requires circuit rebalancing or panel upgrades to distribute power properly.

Most residential panel installations take four to eight hours, depending on complexity and required upgrades. The process includes shutting off power, removing the old panel, installing the new one, and testing all circuits. At Brickman Electric Company, we ensure safe, efficient installation with full code compliance.

Look for exposed wiring, scorch marks around outlets, outdated panels, and improper grounding. Professional inspections use thermal imaging and testing tools to detect hidden hazards like overheating wires. Regular assessments in Chapel Hill homes help prevent electrical fires and ensure safety.

Some fixtures like chandeliers, recessed lighting, or smart systems need dedicated circuits, dimmer-compatible wiring, or low-voltage transformers. Proper installation ensures fixtures work safely and enhance your home's ambiance. At Brickman Electric Company, we tailor lighting solutions to your specific needs and preferences.