Most people think of electrical contractors as those who install and repair power systems in buildings. However, that’s only part of what they do.
There’s a lot more to being an electrical contractor than simply installing power lines.
Here, we’ll cover all the other things you need to know about the trade.
What is an electrical contractor?
Electrical contractors are individuals who specialize in the installation and repair of electrical systems, such as electrical wiring, power distribution, and transformers. Electrical contractors may work for electric utilities, building owners, and private companies.
Some electrical contractors may specialize in specific areas, such as residential construction, commercial construction, or commercial electrical contracting. Electrical contractors must meet licensing requirements in order to be hired by electric utilities.
When do you need an electrical contractor?
You need an electrical contractor to work on your electrical system when:
- You have problems with your lights, or your appliances or electronics aren’t working.
- There is a smell of smoke or overheating in the room.
- Your electrical system is making a strange sound.
- There is a flickering light or a buzzing sound.
- Your electrical system is emitting a fire or spark.
- There is a problem with a circuit breaker tripping.
- The electrical panel is malfunctioning.
What does an electrical contractor do?
Electrical contractors are professionals who install, repair, maintain, and upgrade electrical systems. They work directly with homeowners and businesses to design, install, and repair electrical systems.
In order to qualify as an electrical contractor, you must be licensed and insured, and hold the appropriate certifications.
They install and test wiring, appliances, and lighting fixtures in residential and commercial buildings. They install and connect electrical equipment, circuits, and wiring. They also inspect and test electrical systems for safety and compliance.
How Much Does An Electrical Contractor Make And What Are The Job Prospects?
The median annual wage for an electrician was $64,210. The middle 50 percent earned between $51,290 and $81,040, and the lowest 10 percent earned less than $36,420. The top 10 percent earned more than $90,620.
Job prospects for electricians are good, but competition is high. About 1.3 million people were employed in this occupation in 2014, and that number is expected to increase by 18% over the next 10 years.
However, most electricians work full-time year-round. Those who specialize in commercial work usually work only in the daytime, while those who work in residential homes usually work full-time during the day and part-time at night.
Electrical Contractor Skills And Abilities
A good electrical contractor can help you save a lot of money on your home improvement projects. Whether you are fixing a light fixture, replacing a ceiling fan, or remodeling your kitchen, a good electrician will be able to help you complete the job quickly and efficiently.
To ensure that you hire a good electrical contractor, ask friends and family for recommendations. If you are going to hire an electrician yourself, look for a local company that has been in business for a few years and has good reviews on the Better Business Bureau. For example, you can check out milne electric company.
Check the License
Ask the company for proof of license. Some states require that all contractors be licensed, and you should be able to find a list of license numbers on the company’s website. If the company is licensed, you can contact your state’s licensing agency to make sure that they are up to date on their license.
Do a background check
Ask for references from previous customers. You should also call the company’s references and ask them for their opinion. If a company has a history of customer complaints or issues, it may be a sign that they aren’t doing a good job.
Get a written estimate
Ask for a written estimate of the total cost of the project. Make sure that the price includes the cost of materials and labor. Ask for estimates from at least three different companies before hiring anyone.
