FAQ — Electrical Services in Pacifica & San Francisco
Here are answers to the questions I hear most often from homeowners and businesses. If you don’t see your question here, just reach out — chances are, I’ve handled it before.
General Electrical Questions
Why does my breaker keep tripping?
Most often it’s an overloaded circuit — too many appliances on one line. Sometimes it’s failing wiring or a breaker that’s worn out. I check the load, wiring, and panel before recommending a fix.
Are two-prong outlets safe?
Not really. They have no ground, which means electronics and people aren’t fully protected. I replace them with grounded outlets or GFCIs depending on the setup.
How do I know if I need a panel upgrade?
If your panel is full, if breakers trip often, or if you’re adding EV chargers, dryers, or a home office — you probably need an upgrade. Older fuse boxes should always be replaced.
Outlets & Switches
Why do my plugs fall out of the outlet?
The spring contacts inside are worn. Replacement is the only safe option — worn outlets overheat and can arc.
Can I use any dimmer with LED lights?
No. Many dimmers aren’t LED-compatible. I match dimmers to fixtures so you don’t get flicker or buzz.
EV Charging Stations
Do I need a panel upgrade for an EV charger?
Not always. Some homes have spare capacity, but many mid-century homes in Pacifica and San Francisco don’t. I’ll measure and give you clear options.
Can I just plug my EV into a dryer outlet?
It works in some cases, but it’s unsafe and not recommended. A dedicated circuit keeps your car and house wiring safe.
Appliance Installation
Do big appliances need their own circuit?
Yes — ovens, dryers, microwaves, and dishwashers should always be on dedicated lines. Otherwise you risk trips and overheating.
What’s the difference between 3-prong and 4-prong dryer outlets?
4-prong has a separate ground for safety. If your house and appliance don’t match, I can adapt the wiring properly.
Wiring Repairs
Is aluminum wiring dangerous?
It can be. It loosens and overheats over time. The safest option is to repair or replace with copper wiring.
Why do lights flicker when I use certain appliances?
That usually means the wiring is undersized or there’s a loose neutral. Both are repair jobs I handle often.
Lighting Installation
Do I need GFCI protection for outdoor lights?
Yes. Any outdoor or damp-area circuit should be GFCI protected to meet code and keep you safe.
Why do my LED lights buzz or flicker?
It’s usually the wrong dimmer or poor-quality fixtures. I install LED-rated dimmers and solid fixtures to solve it.
Electrical Panels
What size panel do I need?
Most modern homes go with 200A panels. If you’re adding EV chargers, solar, or big appliances, more space means fewer headaches later.
Is replacing a fuse box really necessary?
Yes. Fuse boxes don’t support today’s loads or safety features. A modern breaker panel is the safer choice.
San Francisco & Older Homes
Can original wiring from 1900 still be used?
I’ve seen homes in SF with 100+ year old wiring. Sometimes it can be preserved safely, but often it needs upgrades to meet modern standards.
What’s unique about electrical work in San Francisco?
The city has historic homes with knob-and-tube or cloth wiring, often hidden behind plaster walls. I respect the history, but make sure the wiring is safe for today’s needs.
Why do I smell burning near outlets in old SF homes?
That’s usually deteriorated cloth insulation or loose splices. It’s a red flag — call right away.
Pacifica & Coastal Homes
Why do outdoor outlets fail so quickly near the ocean?
Salt air and fog corrode contacts. I use weather-rated (WR/TR) devices, sealed boxes, and conduit to make installs last.
Do I need special wiring for a beach house?
Yes. Coastal homes need corrosion-resistant breakers, conduit, and extra GFCI protection outdoors and in garages.
Contact
Still have questions? Reach out — I’m always around to help with straight answers and safe fixes.