FAQs

A fuse and a circuit breaker both perform the same function of disrupting the flow of electricity when a fault is sensed. The only difference is that a fuse will have to be replaced once it has tripped, whereas a circuit breaker won’t need replacement. If you have more questions about your electrical system, call the expert electrical contractors at Southern Electric of TN, Inc.

A GFCI outlet is designed to protect you from electrical shock when moisture is present. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, a GFCI outlet will interrupt power if it detects a change in current as small as 0.0006 amperes. GFCI outlets should be installed in wet locations such as unfinished basements, garages, and within six feet of sinks, kitchens, or bathrooms. You can identify a GFCI outlet by the two buttons on the face of the outlet. One button reads “test” and the other reads “reset.” If you have more questions about GFCI outlets or need electrical repair, call Southern Electric of TN, Inc today and get started with a free estimate!

Lights may flicker because of an outdated electrical system. If this is the case, your electrical panel or wiring will need to be replaced by electrical contractors. In other cases, it can be a loose wire, insufficient power supply, or another appliance on a circuit drawing too much power.

If you've reset circuits, only to have the breaker trip again, you likely have a more serious electrical repair problem that needs to be addressed by a qualified electrician. Our experience has shown that an appliance typically causes the trip in the circuit breaker. This could be a space heater during the winter, an air conditioning unit during the summer, or even something as small as a hairdryer.

If you turn off your light switch and it's hot to the touch, this is indicative of a serious issue that could lead to an electrical fire. Possible reasons for this include the switch being overloaded, the switch failing, or faulty wiring. Reach out to the electrical contractors at Southern Electric of TN, Inc for 24/7 emergency service to keep your home safe.

We recommend having your EV charger installed by a licensed electrician. Southern Electric's electricians are trained to assess your home's electrical load, pull any necessary permits, and ensure proper and safe installation.

Level 1 EV chargers are the slowest to charge your vehicle, while Level 2 EV chargers can charge your vehicle overnight. Level 3 EV chargers are the fastest, but are typically reserved for industrial-grade electrical systems.

Yes, it's a good idea to have 200-amp service for your home if you have a Level 2 EV charger in our garage. Many EV chargers pull between 30 and 50 amps. To provide adequate power for the rest of your home's electrical needs, 200-amp service is the way to go. Southern Electric can upgrade your electrical system's capacity.