HBP Electrical – Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to many of the questions we get at HBP Electrical LLC. If you have any additional questions or would like to schedule a free estimate, please give us a call today!

  • How much does it cost to have an electrician come to my home?

    We do not charge to send a technician to your home, and we provide free estimates. Before any work begins, you’ll receive clear, upfront pricing so you know exactly what to expect — no hidden fees or surprise charges.

  • Do you offer free estimates?

    Yes — all estimates are free. Our technician will evaluate the work needed, explain your options, and give you a price before we start.

  • Do you charge by the job or by the hour?

    We charge by the job, not the hour. That way, you know the total cost up front, no matter how long it takes.

  • Are your electricians licensed and insured?

    Yes — all HBP Electrical technicians are fully licensed, insured, and trained to meet the latest safety and code requirements.

  • What areas do you service?

    We proudly serve homeowners throughout [insert your service area, e.g., “the greater ___ area and surrounding communities”].

  • How soon can you come out for an appointment?

    We do our best to offer same-day or next-day appointments for urgent needs, and we schedule regular service calls at a time convenient for you.

  • Do you offer emergency electrical services?

    Yes — we offer 24/7 emergency service for urgent electrical issues that can’t wait.

  • Do you warranty your work? If so, for how long?

    Yes — all our work comes with a [insert your warranty period, e.g., “1-year labor warranty”] plus manufacturer warranties on the products we install.

  • How do I know if my home’s electrical system is up to code?

    If your home is more than 20 years old or you’ve never had a full electrical inspection, it’s a good idea to have us check it. We can identify safety issues and ensure your system meets current code requirements.

  • What are the signs of unsafe or outdated wiring?

    Flickering lights, warm outlets, burning smells, frequent breaker trips, or two-prong outlets can all be signs of outdated wiring. If you notice any of these, call us immediately.

  • Is my electrical panel safe, or does it need to be upgraded?

    Panels over 25 years old, or certain brands like Federal Pacific and Zinsco, may be unsafe. We can inspect your panel and recommend whether an upgrade is necessary.

  • Can I do my own electrical work if I’m handy?

    For safety and compliance, electrical work should only be done by a licensed electrician. DIY wiring can cause fire hazards, injuries, and code violations — and may void your insurance.

  • What is GFCI protection, and do I need it in my home?

    GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets shut off power instantly if they detect a fault, protecting against electric shock. They’re required in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor areas.

  • Why do my circuit breakers keep tripping?

    This usually means you’re overloading the circuit, there’s a short, or you have a faulty breaker. We can troubleshoot and fix the issue to prevent it from happening again.

  • Why do my lights flicker or dim randomly?

    Loose wiring connections, overloaded circuits, or power supply fluctuations are common causes. We’ll inspect your system and make the necessary repairs.

  • What causes outlets to stop working?

    It could be a tripped breaker, a tripped GFCI outlet, worn wiring, or a bad connection. We can quickly locate and fix the problem.

  • Why do I smell something burning near an outlet or switch?

    That’s a sign of overheating wiring or components, which can be dangerous. Turn off the breaker and call us immediately.

  • How can I prevent electrical surges from damaging my electronics?

    A whole-home surge protection system is the best way to shield your electronics and appliances from sudden power spikes.

  • Do I need to upgrade my panel for a new appliance or EV charger?

    Possibly — some appliances and EV chargers require more power than older panels can safely provide. We can assess your system and recommend any upgrades.

  • Can you install whole-home surge protection?

    Yes — we install surge protection devices that defend your entire electrical system from damaging power surges.

  • What is the best type of lighting for energy efficiency?

    LED lighting is the most efficient option. It uses up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs and lasts much longer.

  • Can you help me install a home generator?

    Absolutely — we install and service standby and portable generator systems so your home stays powered during outages.

  • Do you install electric vehicle charging stations?

    Yes — we install Level 2 EV chargers and handle any electrical upgrades required for safe, reliable charging.

  • What should I do to prepare my home before an electrician arrives?

    Please clear the work area of furniture or obstacles and secure any pets. If possible, know where your breaker panel is located.

  • Do I need to be home while the work is being done?

    It’s best if you’re home so we can walk you through the work and answer questions. For larger projects, we can make arrangements if you can’t be there the entire time.