Frequently Asked Questions
How does a whole-home surge protector work?
A whole-home surge protector installs directly at your electrical panel and diverts voltage spikes away from your home's circuits. It protects appliances, electronics, and wiring from damage caused by lightning strikes or utility grid fluctuations. At Pine Green Electric LLC, we often pair surge protection with panel upgrades for comprehensive safety in storm-prone Fayetteville, NC.When should you upgrade your electrical panel?
You should upgrade your electrical panel when adding high-demand appliances like EV chargers or generators, experiencing frequent breaker trips, or living in a home with outdated wiring. Older panels may not support modern electrical loads safely. At Pine Green Electric LLC, we evaluate your current system and recommend upgrades to meet code and prevent outages.What's included in an electrical safety inspection?
An electrical safety inspection includes evaluating your panel, breakers, wiring, grounding system, and surge protection. The electrician identifies code violations, fire hazards, and aging components that need attention. At Pine Green Electric LLC, we provide clear reports with actionable recommendations, ideal for homebuyers or anyone concerned about electrical reliability in Fayetteville, NC.What's the difference between a Level 2 and Level 1 EV charger?
A Level 1 EV charger plugs into a standard 120-volt outlet and charges slowly, while a Level 2 charger requires a 240-volt dedicated circuit and charges much faster. Most homeowners prefer Level 2 for daily use. At Pine Green Electric LLC, we install Level 2 chargers with proper load calculations and code-compliant wiring throughout Fayetteville, NC.Why do homes in Fayetteville need backup generators?
Homes in Fayetteville, NC face storm-related outages that can disrupt power for hours or days. A backup generator keeps essential systems running, including HVAC, refrigeration, and medical equipment. At Pine Green Electric LLC, we size generators to match your household electrical loads and install safe transfer switches for reliable operation.How do you prepare a home for new construction electrical work?
Preparation includes coordinating with builders, creating a circuit layout that meets code, and planning outlet and lighting placement based on the floor plan. Modern load calculations ensure the system supports appliances, smart devices, and future upgrades like EV chargers. At Pine Green Electric LLC, we work closely with inspectors to keep projects on schedule in Fayetteville, NC.What's the biggest mistake homeowners make with lighting installation?
The biggest mistake is improper fixture placement or using non-rated electrical boxes, which creates safety hazards and poor lighting quality. Outdoor and recessed lighting require specific mounting and waterproofing. At Pine Green Electric LLC, we ensure code-compliant installs with attention to aesthetics, especially for exterior and pathway lighting in local Fayetteville homes.Can you install a ceiling fan on any ceiling?
Not all ceilings are structurally safe for ceiling fans without a fan-rated electrical box. Standard boxes may not support the weight and vibration of a rotating fan. At Pine Green Electric LLC, we inspect mounting locations, install proper hardware, and ensure balanced operation with secure wiring connections throughout Fayetteville, NC and surrounding areas.What affects the cost of an electrical panel upgrade?
Cost depends on panel amperage, the number of circuits needed, permit fees, and any required code corrections like grounding or wiring updates. Older homes often need more extensive work. At Pine Green Electric LLC, we provide clear load assessments and upfront pricing for panel replacements in Fayetteville, NC to meet your home's electrical demands.How does smart home wiring differ from standard wiring?
Smart home wiring often requires neutral wires at switch locations, low-voltage cabling for devices, and proper circuit design to support automation and connectivity. Older homes may lack the infrastructure needed for smart switches and controls. At Pine Green Electric LLC, we integrate smart wiring cleanly with existing systems to support reliable performance and future expansion.What's a dedicated outlet and when do you need one?
A dedicated outlet serves a single appliance or device on its own circuit, preventing overloads and breaker trips. They're required for high-draw equipment like washers, dryers, workshop tools, and RV hookups. At Pine Green Electric LLC, we size circuits correctly and label them clearly for safe, code-compliant use across Fayetteville, NC.Why is outdoor lighting important for homes in Fayetteville?
Outdoor lighting improves safety by illuminating pathways, driveways, and entry points while enhancing curb appeal and security. Fayetteville homes benefit from weather-resistant fixtures designed for local climate conditions. At Pine Green Electric LLC, we install landscape and exterior lighting with code-compliant wiring and attention to placement for long-term reliability.