Frequently Asked Questions

If your panel is over 25 years old, you frequently trip breakers, or you're adding major appliances like EV chargers, an upgrade is likely needed. Modern homes require more capacity than older panels provide. At Fox Electric Service, we assess your current load and future electrical demands during our inspection.

EV charger installation requires assessing your electrical panel's capacity, potentially upgrading circuits, and installing a dedicated 240-volt line. Most installations take 4 to 6 hours. Fox Electric Service evaluates whether your existing panel can handle the additional load before beginning the work.

Yes, lightning strikes and power surges can damage wiring, outlets, and appliances without obvious signs. Even minor storms may weaken connections or create safety hazards. We recommend a professional inspection after severe weather in the New Castle area to identify hidden issues before they worsen.

Repairs fix specific problems like faulty outlets or tripped breakers, while upgrades modernize your entire electrical system to handle increased power demands. Upgrades often include panel replacements and rewiring. At Fox Electric Service, we help determine whether a repair solves your issue or if a system upgrade is more cost-effective long-term.

Most homes benefit from professional electrical inspections every 3 to 5 years, or sooner if you notice flickering lights or burning smells. Routine maintenance catches wear before it becomes dangerous. Properties with older wiring or heavy electrical use should consider more frequent checks.

Frequent breaker trips usually mean circuits are overloaded, there's a short circuit, or the panel is outdated. Plugging too many devices into one circuit is a common cause. Fox Electric Service troubleshoots the root cause and recommends solutions like adding circuits or upgrading your panel.

Immediately shut off power at the main breaker if you smell burning, see sparks, or experience electrical shocks. Evacuate if there's risk of fire and call for help. Fox Electric Service provides 24/7 emergency response in New Castle and surrounding areas with quick arrival times.

LED lights use up to 75% less energy than traditional bulbs and last 25 times longer, reducing both electric bills and replacement costs. They also produce less heat, improving safety. Most homeowners recover upgrade costs within 2 to 3 years through energy savings.

Backup generators automatically detect power outages and switch on within seconds, running essential systems like HVAC, refrigeration, and medical equipment. They're fueled by natural gas or propane. At Fox Electric Service, we size generators based on your home's specific power needs and install transfer switches for seamless operation.

Inspections evaluate wiring condition, panel capacity, outlet safety, grounding systems, and code compliance. We identify fire hazards, outdated components, and potential shock risks. Comprehensive inspections typically take 1 to 2 hours and include a detailed report with recommended repairs or upgrades.

In many cases, yes—electricians can extend existing circuits if they have capacity, or install new dedicated circuits from the panel. Older homes may need rewiring if circuits are maxed out. Fox Electric Service evaluates your current system to determine the safest, most cost-effective approach.

Ignoring warning signs like flickering lights, warm outlets, or buzzing sounds often leads to dangerous situations or costly damage. Many also attempt DIY fixes on complex issues. At Fox Electric Service, we encourage early professional intervention to prevent safety hazards and ensure repairs meet Indiana electrical codes.