Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

How long has Silver State Electric been in business?

Accepted Answer

Silver State Electric has been serving Northern Nevada since 1996—over 25 years of trusted electrical service. We're a locally owned and operated company, not a franchise, which means you get personalized service from people who live and work in your community.

Question 2

What areas does Silver State Electric serve?

Accepted Answer

We proudly serve the entire Northern Nevada region including Reno, Sparks, Carson City, Fernley, Fallon, Minden, Gardnerville, and the Lake Tahoe area. If you're unsure whether we service your area, give us a call at (775) 885-2223.

Question 3

Is Silver State Electric licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we are fully licensed (NV License #0087791), bonded, and insured. We carry comprehensive liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage to protect both our team and your property.

Question 4

Do you offer free estimates?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We provide free, no-obligation estimates for most electrical projects. Our electricians will assess your needs, explain your options, and provide transparent, upfront pricing before any work begins.

Question 5

Do you offer 24/7 emergency electrical service?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer 24/7 emergency electrical service for urgent situations like power outages, electrical fires, sparking outlets, or any situation that poses an immediate safety risk. Call (775) 885-2223 for emergency service.

Question 6

What forms of payment do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept cash, checks, and all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover). For larger projects, we can discuss payment arrangements to fit your budget.

Question 7

Do you pull permits for electrical work?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we handle all necessary permits and inspections for your electrical project. Permits are required for most electrical work in Nevada, and we ensure all work is inspected and approved by local authorities.

Question 8

How do I schedule an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can schedule an appointment by calling us at (775) 885-2223, or by filling out our online request form. We'll work with your schedule to find a convenient time for your service call or estimate.

Question 9

How much does a 200 amp panel upgrade cost in Reno?

Accepted Answer

A 200 amp panel upgrade in Reno typically costs between $2,500 and $4,500, depending on the complexity of the installation, permit requirements, and whether the meter base needs replacement. Silver State Electric provides free quotes with transparent, upfront pricing.

Question 10

When should I upgrade from 100 amp to 200 amp service?

Accepted Answer

You should consider upgrading to 200 amp service if you're adding an EV charger, installing a hot tub or pool, adding a home addition, experiencing frequent breaker trips, or if your home still has a fuse box. Modern homes with central air, electric appliances, and home offices typically need 200 amp service.

Question 11

How much does it cost to install a Tesla charger at home in Reno?

Accepted Answer

Home Tesla charger installation in Reno typically costs between $800 and $2,500, depending on the distance from your electrical panel, whether a panel upgrade is needed, and local permit requirements. Silver State Electric provides free on-site quotes.

Question 12

What's the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 EV charging?

Accepted Answer

Level 1 charging uses a standard 120V outlet and adds about 3-5 miles of range per hour. Level 2 charging uses a 240V outlet (like a dryer outlet) and adds 25-30 miles of range per hour. Most EV owners prefer Level 2 for overnight charging convenience.

Question 13

What's the difference between 811 and private utility locating?

Accepted Answer

811 (Call Before You Dig) only locates public utility lines that run from the street to your property. Private utility locating finds lines on your property—like sprinkler systems, private gas lines, septic systems, and electrical lines to outbuildings—that 811 doesn't cover.

Question 14

Why do my lights flicker when I turn on appliances?

Accepted Answer

Flickering lights when appliances turn on usually indicates your electrical panel is struggling to supply enough power. This is common in older homes with 100 amp or smaller panels. While occasional minor flickering may be normal, frequent or severe flickering warrants a panel inspection.

Question 15

What is a GFCI outlet and where do I need them?

Accepted Answer

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets protect against electrical shock by cutting power when they detect current flowing through an unintended path (like water or a person). Nevada code requires GFCI protection in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, outdoors, and near any water source.

Question 16

Is aluminum wiring in my home dangerous?

Accepted Answer

Aluminum wiring, common in homes built between 1965-1973, can be a fire hazard if not properly maintained. The connections can loosen over time and overheat. We offer aluminum wire mitigation services including COPALUM crimping and complete rewiring to make your home safe.

Question 17

How much does whole-house rewiring cost?

Accepted Answer

Whole-house rewiring in Reno typically costs between $8,000 and $20,000+ depending on home size, accessibility, and whether walls need to be opened. We provide detailed quotes after inspecting your home and discussing your needs.

Question 18

Do I need a dedicated circuit for my hot tub?

Accepted Answer

Yes, hot tubs require a dedicated 240V circuit, typically 40-60 amps depending on the model. This circuit must be GFCI protected and installed by a licensed electrician to meet code requirements and manufacturer specifications.

Question 19

What is whole-home surge protection?

Accepted Answer

Whole-home surge protection is installed at your electrical panel to protect all your home's electronics and appliances from power surges. Unlike power strips that only protect individual devices, whole-home protection guards against surges from lightning, utility switching, and large appliances.

Question 20

Can you install ceiling fans where there's no existing fixture?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can install ceiling fans in rooms without existing electrical boxes. This involves running new wiring, installing a fan-rated electrical box, and ensuring proper support for the fan's weight and movement.

Question 21

What is 3-phase power and does my business need it?

Accepted Answer

3-phase power provides more consistent power delivery for heavy equipment like commercial HVAC, industrial machinery, and large motors. Most commercial buildings benefit from 3-phase service. If you're experiencing power issues or adding heavy equipment, you may need a 3-phase upgrade.

Question 22

Can you work after hours to avoid disrupting my business?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we regularly schedule commercial electrical work during evenings, weekends, and off-hours to minimize disruption to your business operations. We understand that downtime costs money, and we work around your schedule.

Question 23

What is a tenant improvement (TI) and do you handle them?

Accepted Answer

Tenant improvements are modifications made to commercial spaces for new tenants. This often includes electrical work like adding outlets, relocating lighting, installing data cabling, and upgrading panels. Yes, we handle complete TI electrical packages.

Question 24

How much does commercial EV charger installation cost?

Accepted Answer

Commercial EV charger installation costs vary widely based on charger type, quantity, and electrical infrastructure needs. Level 2 installations typically range from $3,000-$10,000 per charger, while DC Fast Chargers can cost $50,000-$150,000. We provide detailed quotes after site assessment.

Question 25

Are there incentives for installing commercial EV chargers in Nevada?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Nevada offers several incentives including NV Energy rebates, federal tax credits (up to 30% through the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit), and various grant programs. Silver State Electric can help you identify and apply for available incentives.

Question 26

What are the benefits of LED lighting retrofits?

Accepted Answer

LED lighting retrofits can reduce your lighting energy costs by 50-75%, last 3-5 times longer than traditional lighting, improve light quality, and may qualify for NV Energy rebates. Most businesses see ROI within 1-3 years through energy savings alone.

Question 27

Do you install backup generators for businesses?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we install and maintain backup generators for commercial properties. From small standby generators for essential systems to large generators that can power your entire facility, we help you choose the right solution for your business continuity needs.

Question 28

What is an electrical safety inspection and when do I need one?

Accepted Answer

An electrical safety inspection evaluates your facility's electrical system for code compliance, safety hazards, and potential issues. You may need one for insurance requirements, before purchasing a property, after renovations, or as part of regular maintenance.

Question 29

What is switchgear and when does my facility need it?

Accepted Answer

Switchgear is heavy-duty electrical distribution equipment used in industrial facilities to control, protect, and isolate electrical equipment. You need switchgear when your facility requires high-voltage power distribution, multiple power sources, or sophisticated load management.

Question 30

Can you work during plant shutdowns?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we specialize in scheduled shutdown electrical work. We plan projects around your production schedule and can work nights, weekends, and during planned maintenance windows to minimize impact on your operations.

Question 31

Do you provide arc flash studies?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide arc flash studies and labeling to ensure your facility meets OSHA and NFPA 70E requirements. Arc flash studies identify hazards and help you implement proper safety procedures for electrical work.

Question 32

What is preventive maintenance for industrial electrical systems?

Accepted Answer

Preventive maintenance includes regular inspections, thermal imaging to detect hot spots, connection tightening, cleaning, and testing of electrical equipment. This proactive approach prevents unexpected failures and costly downtime.

Question 33

Can you install and wire new manufacturing equipment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we install and wire all types of industrial machinery including CNC machines, conveyor systems, packaging equipment, and custom manufacturing equipment. We work with your equipment vendors to ensure proper installation and commissioning.

Question 34

What is VFD installation and why would I need it?

Accepted Answer

Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) control motor speed and can reduce energy consumption by 20-50% on pumps, fans, and conveyors. They also provide soft-start capability, reducing mechanical stress on equipment and extending motor life.

Question 35

Do you offer 24/7 emergency service for industrial facilities?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency electrical service for industrial facilities. We understand that production downtime is extremely costly, and we respond quickly to get your operations back online.

Question 36

Can you help with OSHA electrical safety compliance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we help industrial facilities meet OSHA electrical safety requirements including proper labeling, arc flash protection, lockout/tagout procedures, and equipment grounding. We can perform compliance audits and implement necessary corrections.

General Questions

Residential Electrical

Commercial Electrical

Industrial Electrical

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