Frequently Asked Questions About Electrical Issues in San Jose, CA

Dalcon Electric Can Solve Your Electrical Issues

From new installation to renovation to troubleshooting, you can rely on Dalcon Electric to solve your home’s electrical needs. We proudly offer superior service and the finest workmanship in San Jose and the surrounding area. Our professional technicians have set the bar for exceptional service, integrity, and quality work for over 30 years. Call us today with your questions, and we’ll be happy to help!

My Circuit Breaker or Fuse Won’t Reset. What’s Going On?

You may have a damaged circuit breaker, so it’s time to call us. We can take a look and see if it can be repaired. However, if you have an older electrical panel, we strongly recommend a complete electrical panel upgrade due to safety and fire concerns.

Can You Install the Electrical for a New Room Addition?

Of course! Our fully-licensed electricians are knowledgeable about older construction and wiring and are up-to-date on modern technologies, so we can easily blend your new addition into your existing home.

Can You Help With Small Lighting Installation Projects?

There are no small jobs when it comes to creating the home you envision. We can help with any electrical need, big or small, from installing switches and dimmers to creating more indoor lighting or outdoor lighting, addressing surge protection, or upgrading to smart home technology, and we even offer solutions to help you save money. We want to be the company you call for any electrical need.

Why Should I Consider LED Lighting?

You should consider switching to LED bulbs because of their energy efficiency. It uses about 3/4 less energy than traditional incandescent light bulbs and lasts much longer. According to the Department of Energy, LED technology will become the largest source of lighting within the next 12-15 years.

Who Needs a Carbon Monoxide Detector? Where Should It Go?

In California, having a carbon monoxide detector is required as a matter of public safety. All residential dwellings which burn gas in any way must have a carbon monoxide detector. The carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors should be on every level of the home and must be located in all bedroom areas.

How Do I Deal with Aluminum House Wiring?

COPALUM is an alternative to rewiring your entire home with copper. This method attaches a short section of copper wire to the ends of the aluminum wire at connection points (a technique commonly referred to as “pig-tailing”), using a special connector to join the wires. It is a safe and permanent repair of existing aluminum wiring. It calls for special tools and should only be done by a licensed electrician.

How Can I Tell If I Have an Electrical Emergency?

If you have an electrical emergency, it’s important to call an electrician or electrical contractor as soon as possible. Ignoring the problem will only make it get worse and more expensive to fix, and could put your family’s health and safety at risk, as well as risk damaging your home. Call us for emergency electrical services if you notice any of these issues:

  • Flickering lights
  • A buzzing sound from lights, outlets, or electrical appliances
  • A burning smell
  • Hot outlets or wires
  • Signs of discoloration on switches, outlets, wires, or your electrical panels
  • An overheated electrical panel
  • All of your lights go out or all bulbs are dead
  • Your breaker box is making strange noises
  • Using more than one appliance at a time causes power to go out on one side of your home
  • One or more breakers won’t switch from the reset or off position
  • An outlet or wire is smoking
  • Your bulbs keep burning out quickly
  • You see sparks or arcs when you plug something in

What are the Signs I Need a New Garbage Disposal?

With proper maintenance and timely garbage disposal repairs, your garbage disposal can last 10-15 years. In time, though, the motor can fail or you might notice that the garbage disposal isn’t functioning as well. Give us a call if you see any of these warning signs you need a new garbage disposal installation:

  • Flipping the switch for the garbage disposal doesn’t do anything
  • The garbage disposal keeps turning on and off
  • The motor makes a noise you’ve never heard before
  • The motor isn’t reliable
  • You have to keep pressing the reset button on the disposal
  • Using the garbage disposal makes the lights dim or flicker, or causes a power outage

What Is a Short Circuit?

A short circuit occurs when the flow of electric current goes the wrong way through a wire or pathway without enough resistance to slow its journey. This causes excessive current to the power source, whether it is a switch, outlet, light, or appliance. The power source might become significantly damaged, catch on fire, or become destroyed. Short circuits produce high temperatures that can be dangerous. A short circuit can be caused by pests, animals, or pets chewing through wires; water damage to wiring; loose connections; old or damaged outlets, switches, appliances, lights, or electric devices; nails or screws damaging wires; deterioration of cable sheathing; or surges of electricity.

Can You Install Dimmer Switches?

Yes! We can install every type of indoor and outdoor residential lighting. This includes traditional light switches, dimmer switches, smart lighting, security lighting, track lighting, recessed lighting, and more.

Why Do I Need a Surge Protector?

A surge protector prevents too much power from damaging your appliances and electronic devices. It blocks voltage spikes and short circuits that would otherwise destroy your computer, laptop, and other electronics. Power surges can happen during electrical storms. You don’t need a surge protector for all electronic devices, but you should use one for televisions, soundbars, PCs, laptops, and projectors.

What Financing Options Do You Offer?

If you have budget concerns, financing options are available. In addition, we keep our prices fair and reasonable. We can recommend ways to save money by performing preventative maintenance and installing energy-efficient devices whenever possible to save you money in the long run. Check out our coupons for savings deals. Don’t let costs keep you from electrical repairs. Call us today, and let us show you why we’re our customers’ favorite electricians.

Contact Dalcon Electric

Get in touch with Dalcon Electric to repair your home’s electric power issues. We can provide answers to all of your questions. With our services, you’ll know your home is safe and protected. Contact us today for expert electrical help.

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