FAQ

Many homeowners assume dimming and flickering lights are caused by the utility company, but in many cases the issue is related to the age and condition of the home’s electrical system, especially the main service panel.

Common causes include:

• Rust or corrosion inside the panel

• Electrical circuits being overloaded

• Poor modifications or additions made over the years

• Low-quality electrical parts

• Previous work that does not meet modern safety standards

• Inadequate grounding or bonding

• Increased electrical demand from modern appliances and technology

An inspection from a qualified electrician can help determine the cause and recommend solutions that restore proper power distribution and improve safety and efficiency.

This is a very common question, especially in older homes.

Many homeowners purchase homes where renovations have been done over the years. Unfortunately, not all renovations are completed by licensed professionals, which can lead to switches that no longer appear to control anything.

Some common explanations include:

• Half of an electrical outlet in the room may be controlled by the switch

• The switch may have originally controlled a lamp outlet

• A builder may have pre-wired the switch for a future ceiling fan or lighting fixture

• Previous renovations may have removed the fixture that the switch controlled

A professional evaluation can usually determine what the switch was designed for and whether it can be repurposed safely.

This is an increasingly common concern. Many people now work from home or have medical equipment that requires reliable power.

True Line Electric can provide several backup power solutions depending on your needs.

Options include:

• Portable generator connections with manual transfer solutions

• Automatic standby generators such as Generac systems

• Essential circuit coverage for critical systems like internet, refrigeration, and heating

• Whole-home generator systems for uninterrupted power

Automatic standby generators are especially popular because they turn on automatically during a power outage, keeping your home running without interruption.

High electrical bills are often caused by inefficiencies within the home’s electrical system.

True Line Electric offers whole-home safety and efficiency inspections that help identify the cause of rising electrical costs.

Some common reasons include:

• Malfunctioning or outdated appliances that draw excessive power

• Electrical energy being lost as heat due to worn connections or arcing inside an electrical panel

• Inefficient or outdated lighting throughout the home

Many homeowners see immediate improvement by upgrading to high-efficiency LED lighting or replacing outdated electrical components.

Home security has become more accessible and flexible than ever.

At True Line Electric, we offer a range of solutions depending on your needs and budget, including:

• Single doorbell camera systems

• Entryway and perimeter camera systems

• Motion lighting and security lighting

• Whole-home camera coverage

Our goal is not to push expensive solutions, but to help you find the right level of protection for your home and family.

A chirping smoke detector is another common homeowner concern.

Most smoke detectors contain sensitive electronics and built-in safety systems that monitor their condition. Over time, these components wear out, which is why smoke detectors have a limited lifespan.

Modern detectors may include:

• Smoke detection

• Carbon monoxide detection

• Battery monitoring systems

There are also different detection technologies used in smoke detectors, including:

• Photoelectric detectors, which detect visible smoke particles

• Ionization detectors, which sense smaller combustion particles

Because of the electronics involved and evolving safety standards, smoke detectors eventually need replacement. True Line Electric can help you select and install the right system to keep your home protected.