When something goes wrong with one of your home’s major systems, getting expert help should be at the top of your priority list. DIY electrical work, in particular, can have deadly consequences if you don’t know exactly what you’re doing.
In a major metropolitan area like Chicagoland, relying on an experienced electrician is especially important. Chicago has a rich architectural history, and the electrical systems of older homes and businesses may not meet current safety standards.
Too much is at stake for you to serve as your own electrician. Let the pros do the work, whether you need a major electrical repair , a straightforward light fixture installation, or something in between.
Services Provided by Chicago Electricians
Electrical contractors in Chicago can help with a wide range of routine tasks and specialized services. In addition to standard services, such as installation of lighting, outlets, switches, and generators; rewiring; and whole-house surge protection, ask your electrician about the following services:
- Main electrical panel replacements and upgrades
- Audiovisual, data, and phone wiring
- Wiring and outlet installation for pools, hot tubs, and household appliances
- 24/7 emergency service
Always have electrical work done by an experienced electrician who holds a current Illinois electrician’s license.
Electrical repair services
Electrical problems can seem to appear out of nowhere at times, but the important thing to remember is that you shouldn’t delay having an electrician inspect even the smallest issues.
The majority of your home’s electrical system is hidden by walls, after all, so problems can quickly progress to full-blown catastrophes without any obvious signs. Being safe rather than sorry is always the better choice.
Be mindful of the following signs that something has gone wrong with your home’s electrical system:
- Circuit breakers, fuses, or GFCI/AFCI outlets that trip consistently (or trip immediately after being reset)
- Power outlets and light switches that spark, make buzzing or popping noises, are hot to the touch, or smell odd
- Power surges or flickering lights when you turn on a household appliance
These issues are all clues that the amount of electricity flowing through the circuits in your home isn’t right. Too much current in a circuit that isn’t protected (or that is inadequately protected) by a circuit breaker can cause wires to overheat and catch fire.
And while a breaker that trips from time to time may not alarm you, pay attention to how often it happens. If the same breaker trips over and over again, call an electrician to investigate the problem. Do the same if a breaker trips and will not stay in the open position after being reset.
Electrical safety inspections
If you’re fortunate enough to have not experienced any electrical problems at home, an electrical safety inspection probably isn’t on your home maintenance radar. The reality, however, is that electrical problems can occur with very few signs, so periodic electrical inspections are important to keeping your house safe.
Most electricians recommend a safety inspection every five years, or more often if you renovate or notice problems.
Here’s a list of tasks your electrician will do during a typical safety inspection:
- Check the main electrical panel and any subpanels for correct installation, sufficient size, and accurate labeling
- Inspect the electrical service meter outside your house
- Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Test GFCI and AFCI outlets and main panel devices
- Identify and offer solutions for all electrical safety hazards
If your electrician does find issues, ask him or her to rank them on a scale of “must address immediately” to “fix when convenient.” This will help you prioritize the work and budget accordingly.
The Best Picks for the Top Electricians in Chicago
Finding an experienced, reputable electrician in Chicago can be a difficult task, and that’s why the Best Pick Reports survey team reaches out to Chicagoland homeowners each year to find the best electricians in the area.
All Best Pick companies are fully vetted on an annual basis for ongoing high-quality work and exceptional customer service. We verify all state-required licenses and insurance every year, too. Our stringent company qualification process ensures that the contractors we recommend to you truly are the best of the best, and we’re proud to present that information in a format that is simple and easy to use.
When you hire a Best Pick Chicago electrician, you can rest easy knowing that your home is being cared for by one of the best electrical contractors in Chicago. You’ll have a fantastic experience from beginning to end—we guarantee it!