Frequently Asked Questions

If you’ve got a questions, we’ve got answers! Below are some of the most commonly asked questions we've received. If you have questions you don’t see below, please contact us directly and we would be happy to help you!

I want to save money on my utility bills and lower my overall energy usage. Can you help?

Yes! We offer whole home energy consultations that can provide areas of improvement in your home. We can advise on LED retrofitting and panel upgrades that can mean less energy used and more money saved on your monthly power bill.

How much do you charge?
We offer free consultations for renovation, new construction, and energy management services. If you have ongoing maintenance, we have service call rates we can provide based on your current needs. Call us today to find out more!

When is the best time to get you involved in my project?
As early as possible. If we become involved in the design or building phase of a project, then we can assist in the layout of needed power, as well as in the location of lighting.

Why should I use a licensed electrician?
There are several reasons to use a licensed electrician.

  Licensed electricians have been certified by the state and are required to attend regular electrical training yearly.

o   A licensed electrician can guarantee their work and leave you with the confidence in the knowledge that your electrical work was done safely and correctly.

o   A licensed electrician is bonded and will have adequate insurance to protect you and your property.

How do I know if I need an electrician?
The best way to know is to call us- our electricians can evaluate your issue to determine if this would be considered a service call and provide an overview of our service call rates, or a job that could require an onsite estimate before the issue can be determined and repairs can be made. The general rule of thumb is that if you THINK you need an electrician, you probably do. Many DIY electrical repairs can end up being costly and potentially dangerous.

Why should I use an electrician when I can hire a handyman or an unlicensed electrician for less?
Licensed electricians charge and earn more than handymen for a reason – they have to be able to understand complicated electrical concepts and formulas and perform the electrical work in a safe and workmanlike manner. We are often called in to repair the electrical mistakes made by handymen on a regular basis, so we won’t complain if you use them. However, keep in mind that you’ll end up paying about as much for a handyman who thinks he knows what he is doing and takes twice as long to do it. When you use OBOT Electric you will not pay for a learn-as-you-go situation. Also, the work of the licensed electrician is guaranteed
to meet local electrical code requirements and provide peace of mind to you.

What are some signs that there may be a problem with my electrical system?
These signs should be taken seriously because they indicate the presence of overloaded circuits which can lead to electrical fires.

  • Recurring problems with blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers.
  • Flickering lights.
  • A burning smell or unusual odor near appliances or wiring.
  • Outlets or plugs that are warm or hot to the touch.
  • A sizzling sound at wall switches or outlets.
  • Appliances that deliver a slight shock when touched.
  • Electrical cords fall out of the wall sockets.
  • Lamps and light bulbs burn out frequently.

I’m interested in alternative energy sources. Do you offer installation of these, and what can you offer?
Absolutely! We offer a full range of services from back-up power generation to solar and wind energy. Call us today to learn about our full range of alternative energy solutions.