Frequently Asked Questions

  • When should I upgrade my electrical panel?

    Upgrade your electrical panel when you're experiencing frequent circuit breaker trips, adding major appliances, installing an EV charger, or if your panel is over 25 years old. At Redwire Electric, we assess your current electrical capacity to determine if an upgrade will improve safety and accommodate modern power demands in Jacksonville, NC homes and businesses.
  • What's included in commercial electrical remodeling?

    Commercial electrical remodeling includes installation of new electrical wiring, upgraded panels, lighting fixtures, outlets, and power distribution systems designed for safety and efficiency. At Redwire Electric, we handle complete electrical updates for offices, retail stores, restaurants, and apartment complexes throughout the remodeling process.
  • How does EV charger installation work for homes?

    EV charger installation begins with an electrical capacity assessment to ensure your home's system can handle the added load, followed by proper wiring, mounting, and safety compliance testing. At Redwire Electric, we verify your panel has sufficient amperage and install the charger according to manufacturer specifications and local codes.
  • Where are GFCI outlets required in a home?

    GFCI outlets are required in bathrooms, kitchens, outdoor areas, garages, basements, and any location within six feet of a water source. These outlets detect ground faults and shut off power instantly to prevent electrical shock, providing essential safety in moisture-prone areas throughout Jacksonville, NC properties.
  • What's the difference between whole-house and individual surge protectors?

    Whole-house surge protectors install at your electrical panel and protect all circuits from external power surges, while individual units plug into outlets for localized protection of specific devices. At Redwire Electric, we recommend whole-house systems for comprehensive protection against lightning strikes and utility surges common in coastal North Carolina.
  • Why do I need a generator in Jacksonville, NC?

    Jacksonville, NC experiences hurricanes, tropical storms, and severe weather that frequently cause extended power outages. A properly installed generator provides backup power to keep essential systems running, including refrigeration, medical equipment, and climate control, ensuring your home or business remains functional during emergencies.
  • Can ceiling fans reduce energy costs year-round?

    Yes, ceiling fans reduce energy costs by circulating air in summer to create a cooling effect and reversing in winter to push warm air down from ceilings. Proper installation with correct blade direction settings and adequate electrical support maximizes efficiency and comfort in Jacksonville's humid subtropical climate.
  • What affects the cost of commercial electrical upgrades?

    Commercial electrical upgrade costs depend on building size, existing system condition, required electrical capacity, code compliance needs, and the scope of new installations like lighting or outlets. At Redwire Electric, we evaluate your facility's specific requirements for offices, restaurants, retail stores, or apartment complexes to provide accurate project planning.
  • How do recessed lights compare to traditional fixtures?

    Recessed lights provide streamlined aesthetics, focused task lighting, and space-saving benefits compared to traditional hanging fixtures that extend into rooms. They're ideal for modern residential designs, low ceilings, and areas requiring discreet illumination, though they require proper insulation clearance and housing during installation.
  • What's the biggest mistake homeowners make with electrical systems?

    The biggest mistake is overloading circuits by plugging too many high-wattage appliances into a single outlet or circuit, which creates fire hazards and damages equipment. At Redwire Electric, we help Jacksonville homeowners assess their power needs and add dedicated circuits for major appliances, EV chargers, and workshop equipment.
  • Do motion sensor lights work well in coastal climates?

    Yes, quality motion sensor lights perform reliably in coastal North Carolina's humid, salt-air environment when properly rated for outdoor use with weather-resistant housings. At Redwire Electric, we install sensors with adjustable sensitivity to minimize false triggers from wind-blown vegetation while providing security and convenience lighting.
  • When should restaurants upgrade their electrical systems?

    Restaurants should upgrade electrical systems when adding commercial kitchen equipment, experiencing power interruptions, expanding dining areas, or failing health and safety inspections due to outdated wiring. At Redwire Electric, we design power distribution systems that handle high-demand appliances and meet commercial code requirements for Jacksonville, NC food service establishments.