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Global Electric Services Global Electric Services
(737) 337-8761

FAQ

  • Panel Upgrade FAQs

    • Typically, a single day. Power is off during the swap window; we schedule to minimize disruption and complete inspection promptly.

    • Many modern homes benefit from 200A. We perform a load calculation to size service correctly—no guesswork.
    • Yes. We convert older fuse systems to modern breaker panels with proper grounding and labeling.
    • Yes. New panels provide added capacity and room for future circuits like EV chargers or kitchen upgrades.
    • It’s a popular add-on. We can install a panel-mounted device during the upgrade for efficient whole-home protection.
    • We handle the disconnect/reconnect schedule and inspections so the process is streamlined for you.

  • Troubleshooting FAQs

    • Often a loose neutral, overloaded circuit, or incompatible dimmer. We test connections, devices, and loads to resolve the root cause.

    • Don’t force it. A short or fault is likely. We identify the faulted leg or device and correct it so the breaker can reset safely.
    • Yes—heat can indicate loose connections or overload. Turn off the breaker and call us to prevent further damage.
    • Absolutely. We’ll address the immediate issue and note any findings so you can decide on additional work as needed.
    • We evaluate connections and can install approved repairs (such as pigtailing with listed connectors) to improve safety and reliability.
    • Burning smells, sparking, or smoking devices—treat these as urgent and call for emergency electrical service any time, day or night.

  • Industrial Electrical FAQs

    • Yes. We schedule tie-ins during planned downtime and coordinate lockout/tagout with your team.
    • We routinely work on 208/240/480V three-phase, including transformers, panels, and motor loads.
    • We assess service size, add subpanels where appropriate, or propose a main upgrade when needed.
    • Yes—panel schedules, circuit directories, fixture counts, and as-built notes for your records.
    • Absolutely. We replace legacy fixtures, improve foot-candles, and reduce energy and maintenance costs.
    • Yes—our commercial services team handles offices, showrooms, and customer spaces tied to your facility.

  • Commercial Electrical FAQs

    • Yes. We phase work by area, isolate circuits, control dust, and schedule disruptive tasks after hours to reduce downtime.
    • Absolutely—from a single outlet to a floor of lighting retrofits, no job is too small.
    • Yes. We retrofit fixtures, set compatible dimming or sensors, and provide documentation for any energy-code requirements.
    • We pull permits, coordinate with the City of Austin, and meet inspectors so your team can focus on business.
    • We install labeled circuits and disconnects sized to manufacturer specs, then verify operation under load.

    • Yes—call for emergency electrical service, and we’ll dispatch an on-call electrician to stabilize and repair.

    • We can set a cadence for panel torque checks, lighting audits, emergency/exit light testing, GFCI verification, and thermal scans to catch hot spots before they cause downtime. Findings are documented with clear next steps.
    • We scope the work from drawings or a site walk, perform load calculations, verify panel capacity, and account for access constraints (ceiling height, lift needs, night work). You’ll receive a written estimate with labor, materials, permits, and timelines. For larger bid sets, send plans to let us request a bid with alternates for value engineering.
    • Three-phase distribution supports larger motors and balanced loads. We size feeders, breakers, wire, and disconnects to equipment nameplate ratings, then verify rotation and fault current. If you’re adding machinery, we’ll confirm available capacity and short-circuit ratings upstream.
    • We install Level 2 workplace charging and plan for load management, signage, and ADA reach ranges. We’ll verify spare capacity or propose a panel/service upgrade when needed—see our industrial electrical services if chargers are part of a broader facility upgrade.

  • Construction & Build-Out FAQs

    • Yes. Send drawings, and we’ll provide a detailed proposal with alternates where helpful.
    • For suitable scopes, yes—we collaborate on layouts, loads, and fixture selections to meet budget and code.
    • We adjust manpower, coordinate resequencing with the GC, and issue clear change orders as needed.
    • We phase work, isolate circuits, and perform noisy or disruptive tasks after hours.
    • Yes—panel schedules, circuit directories, fixture counts, test results, and as-built notes.
    • Absolutely—see our EV charger installation services for tenants or fleet vehicles.

  • Surge Protection FAQs

    • It greatly reduces damage from nearby strikes and utility events. No device can guarantee protection from a direct hit, but panel units handle most real-world surges.

    • A whole-home unit is the main defense. Quality point-of-use protectors add another layer for home theaters or office gear.
    • They wear over time as they absorb surges. Many units include status lights; we recommend periodic checks and replacement after significant events.
    • Panel work should be done by a licensed electrician to ensure safe connections, correct breaker sizing, and compliance with Austin code.
    • Typically a few hundred dollars depending on device and panel layout. We provide an upfront quote before any work begins.
    • We’ll evaluate condition and capacity and may recommend electrical panel upgrades for dependable performance with modern protection.

  • Ceiling Fan Installation FAQs

    • Yes. Fans require a UL fan-rated box secured to framing. We’ll upgrade the box if needed to support the fan’s weight and movement.
    • Absolutely. We run a new cable, add a fan-rated box, and install a switch or smart control—minimal disruption, tidy finish.
    • We check mounting, box rating, blade pitch, and capacitors. Most wobble and noise issues are solved with balance, hardware, or component replacement.
    • Yes. We select the correct downrod length, brace the box, and ensure proper blade clearance and airflow for tall or sloped ceilings.
    • A straightforward replacement is usually completed in about an hour. New locations or tall ceilings take longer due to wiring and access.
    • Yes. We install compatible smart wall controls or receiver kits and confirm app or voice integration.
    • Rarely, but if you’re adding multiple new loads or remodel circuits, we’ll assess capacity and discuss electrical panel upgrades when appropriate.

  • EV Charging FAQs

    • Yes—new 240V circuits typically require a permit. We handle all paperwork and inspections.
    • We check capacity first. If space or amperage is tight, we’ll recommend electrical panel upgrades or load-management options.
    • We install all major brands and can recommend a unit based on your vehicle, amperage, and mounting location.
    • For many drivers, yes. Hardwired wall connectors can deliver higher amperage and cleaner cable management—your choice.
    • Typically ~25–30 miles of range per hour depending on charger and vehicle onboard capacity.
    • Yes. We plan circuits, mounting, signage, and access for businesses—see our commercial services for details.

  • Residential Electrical FAQs

    • In most cases, we can schedule a technician within 1 to 2 business days for standard service calls, and we often have same-day availability depending on your location and the type of work needed. For electrical emergencies—such as power outages, sparking panels, or burning smells—we offer 24/7 emergency response. We prioritize urgent safety-related calls and will always do our best to accommodate your schedule. If you're in Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander, or anywhere else in our service area, we'll give you a realistic arrival window and keep you informed every step of the way.

    • We handle a wide range of residential electrical projects, including but not limited to:

      • Ceiling fan installation and repairs
      • Lighting upgrades (LED, recessed, architectural, and landscape)
      • Outlet and switch installation (including GFCI and smart switches)
      • EV charger installation and 240V outlet wiring
      • Troubleshooting flickering lights or non-working circuits
      • Electrical panel upgrades and circuit breaker replacement
      • Surge protection for the entire home
      • Emergency electrical repairs, available 24/7

      Whether you live in an older home that needs wiring updates or a brand-new build requiring additional circuits, our team is experienced in working with all residential electrical systems.

    • There are several signs that your home may need a panel upgrade:

      • Your breakers trip frequently when using appliances
      • Lights flicker when HVAC or large appliances turn on
      • You’re adding high-demand devices like a hot tub, EV charger, or new HVAC system
      • Your panel is more than 25 years old or still uses fuses
      • Your home has a Federal Pacific, Zinsco, or similar outdated panel brand

      Upgrading your panel increases your home's electrical capacity and ensures that your system is up to current code—protecting your family and your property. During a panel inspection, we’ll evaluate your current usage, check for overheating or corrosion, and recommend the safest and most cost-effective solution.

    • While it’s legal in many areas for homeowners to install basic fixtures on their own, we strongly recommend hiring a licensed electrician—especially if:

      • You’re installing a new outlet or switch where none existed before
      • You’re replacing a ceiling fan or chandelier on a high ceiling
      • You’re upgrading from incandescent to LED fixtures or adding dimmer controls
      • You’re unsure of how your home is wired or whether it’s grounded
      • You need to ensure GFCI or AFCI protection per code

      DIY electrical work can lead to shock hazards, code violations, or long-term damage to your home’s wiring. We guarantee all of our installations meet current code and manufacturer specifications, preserving warranties and ensuring peace of mind.

    • Costs vary based on the scope and complexity of the job. Here are some rough ballpark estimates:

      • Outlet or switch installation: $125–$250 per device
      • Ceiling fan installation (existing wiring): $150–$300
      • GFCI outlet installation: $150–$225
      • EV charger circuit installation: $800–$1,500
      • Electrical panel upgrade: $2,000–$3,500+
      • Whole-home surge protector: $400–$800

      We always provide upfront estimates and transparent pricing with no surprise fees. Quotes are based on your specific needs, and we’ll walk you through all options before any work begins.

    • Yes. Every electrician at Global Electric Services is fully licensed by the State of Texas and insured to meet or exceed local and industry requirements. We carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation for the protection of our clients and our team. Our electricians also receive continuous training through the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) program, ensuring up-to-date knowledge on codes, safety, and advanced technologies.
    • Yes. We proudly serve a diverse client base, and more than half of our residential customers are Spanish-speaking. We have Spanish-speaking team members available, and we’re happy to communicate with you in either English or Spanish to ensure you’re comfortable with the scope of work. Look for the “Se habla Español” badge throughout our site or let us know your language preference when you book.

    • We serve Austin and all surrounding areas, including:

      • Round Rock
      • Cedar Park
      • Leander
      • Bastrop
      • Kyle
      • Marble Falls
      • Bee Cave
      • Circle C
      • West Lake Hills
      • Other nearby communities in Central Texas

      If you're unsure whether we service your area, just give us a call—we're always expanding and may already be working in your neighborhood.

    • Yes, we offer free estimates for most residential projects. When you reach out, we’ll ask a few questions about your home and your goals. In some cases, we may schedule an in-person consultation—especially for larger projects like panel upgrades, EV charger installations, or full lighting retrofits. We provide a written estimate with a full breakdown of labor and material costs, and we never begin work without your approval.
    • Absolutely. We frequently work with homeowners, contractors, and designers on electrical planning and execution for kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, home additions, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and whole-home rewiring. We can coordinate with other trades, pull permits, and ensure your new space is wired for both safety and long-term performance.

  • Outlet & Switch FAQs

    • Yes. We fish wires through walls and ceilings and place the device cleanly, with minimal patching required.
    • Yes, code requires GFCI protection where water is present. We install and test GFCIs for kitchens, baths, garages, laundry, and outdoors.
    • Not all dimmers and LED lamps are compatible. We match dimmers to your fixtures and wiring to eliminate flicker.
    • Yes. We install customer-supplied smart devices, set them up, and verify app or voice control.
    • Turn off the breaker and call a pro. Heat or odor can indicate a loose connection or overload that needs prompt repair.
    • Often yes. We reroute wiring, patch minimal openings, and ensure multi-way switching still works as intended.
    • Like-for-like swaps usually don’t, but new circuits often do. As a licensed contractor, we handle permits and inspections.

  • Indoor Lighting FAQs

    • Yes. We fish wiring, cut precise openings, and install IC-rated housings or can-less LEDs with minimal patching.
    • Typically yes—LEDs use far less energy and last years longer, reducing utility costs and bulb changes.
    • We match dimmers to your specific fixtures and drivers, then test for smooth, quiet dimming.
    • Yes. We use fan/fixture-rated boxes, secure bracing, and proper lift access for safe installs at height.
    • We’ll recommend fixture types, spacing, and lumen targets, or work from your designer’s plan and execute it to code.
    • We’ll diagnose wiring, devices, and loading. If the issue points to a supply or circuit fault, our electrical troubleshooting service pinpoints and resolves the cause.

  • Outdoor Lighting FAQs

    • Our licensed electricians design and install landscape and exterior lighting across Austin, from Barton Hills to Bee Cave.
    • Yes—outdoor wiring needs proper burial depth, sealed connections, and GFCI protection to handle weather safely.
    • LED fixtures use very little power. Timers, photocells, and motion sensors cut runtime even further.
    • We install weatherproof GFCI receptacles in convenient locations so decorations plug in safely.
    • Absolutely—driveways, alleys, and backyards benefit from motion floods with adjustable range and dusk-to-dawn features.
    • Yes—we mount outdoor-rated fans and lights on covered patios using proper boxes and bracing. For details, see ceiling fan installation.

  • Emergency Service FAQs

    • Arrival times vary by location and call volume, but we aim to reach most Austin addresses quickly—even overnight.
    • If safe, turn off the affected breaker or main, avoid touching damaged devices, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby. If you see flames, call 911.
    • There is an emergency rate for nights and weekends. We explain pricing upfront before work begins.
    • Often yes. We can isolate the fault and restore unaffected circuits while planning permanent repairs.
    • Yes. We coordinate with the utility when service equipment is damaged and make safe temporary repairs.
    • Absolutely—for retail, offices, and light industrial sites. For non-urgent diagnostics, see our electrical troubleshooting service.
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