Electrical Services

Not right away. First, check whether your neighbors or nearby homes have also lost power. If the outage is coming from the utility grid, Estes Services cannot restore electrical service to your property. Contact your electric utility provider to report the outage and get restoration information.

If your neighbors have power but your home does not, or the utility confirms that power is reaching your property, there may be an issue with your home's electrical system that requires an electrician.

A brief, minor change in brightness can sometimes occur when large equipment starts. However, noticeable or frequent flickering may point to an electrical connection, circuit, panel, or HVAC equipment issue. If the problem is persistent or getting worse, an electrician can evaluate what is causing it.

An intermittent outlet can be caused by a loose connection, worn receptacle, wiring problem, or another issue within the circuit. Because loose electrical connections can generate heat, an outlet that repeatedly loses power should be inspected rather than ignored.

If only part of your home loses power while the rest is working normally, the issue could involve a tripped breaker, circuit problem, electrical panel, connection, or—in some cases—the utility service. Check your breaker panel first. If there is no obvious cause, an electrician can determine whether the problem is inside the home or needs to be addressed by the utility provider.

Lights that noticeably brighten or dim when appliances operate can indicate voltage fluctuations, loose electrical connections, or another issue with the electrical system. Significant or recurring changes should be evaluated, especially when they affect several areas of the home.

You may need panel replacement if breakers trip frequently, the panel is outdated, the system cannot support your home's electrical needs, or you are adding major equipment such as an EV charger, HVAC system, or new appliances.

The timing may be related to which appliances or equipment are operating at the same time. HVAC systems, space heaters, kitchen appliances, EV chargers, and other higher-demand equipment can increase the electrical load. An electrician can help determine what is causing the breaker to trip.

Home electrical inspections, panel evaluations, wiring upgrades, surge protection, breaker services, outlet replacement, and smoke or carbon monoxide detector support can all help improve the safety and reliability of your electrical system.

Crackling, popping, or buzzing from a switch is not something to ignore. It may indicate a loose connection, worn switch, or another electrical problem. Stop using the switch and have it inspected, particularly if you also notice heat, discoloration, or a burning smell.

A shock or tingling sensation from an appliance can indicate a grounding, wiring, appliance, or electrical connection problem. Stop using the affected equipment and have the situation evaluated rather than assuming a small shock is harmless.

The TEST and RESET buttons are typically part of a GFCI outlet designed to reduce the risk of electrical shock in areas where electricity may be near water. If the outlet repeatedly trips or will not reset, there may be a problem that needs further investigation.

Frequent bulb failure can be caused by the bulb itself, excessive heat, vibration, fixture problems, poor connections, or electrical conditions. If multiple bulbs fail unusually quickly in the same location, checking the fixture can help identify the cause.

A very brief spark can sometimes occur as a device begins drawing electricity, but repeated, large, noisy, or unusual sparks should not be ignored. Discoloration, heat, burning odors, or damage around the outlet are additional reasons to stop using it and call an electrician.

An unexplained burning or plastic-like smell can sometimes originate from overheated wiring, outlets, switches, electrical panels, appliances, or HVAC equipment. If you suspect an electrical source, avoid using the affected area and have it evaluated promptly.

First, check whether nearby homes are also without power and contact your electric utility provider. If the outage is coming from the utility grid, Estes Services cannot restore utility power. If your neighbors have electricity, the utility confirms service is reaching your property, or only certain areas of your home are without power, the problem may be within your electrical system and an electrician can help diagnose it.

Some electrical projects may require permits and inspections depending on the type and scope of work and where the property is located. Homeowners can review current permitting requirements through the official DeKalb County Planning & Sustainability website. For projects requiring professional electrical work, Estes Services can help evaluate your home's needs and determine the appropriate next steps