Serving Calgary, Chestermere, Airdrie, Okotoks
Calgary Area
Mon-Fri 8AM-5PM, Sat 9AM-5PM
Get answers to common questions about our electrical services
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Common questions about our services, pricing, and process
Yes, absolutely. We are fully licensed Master Electricians with comprehensive insurance coverage including liability and WCB (Workers Compensation Board). All our work is completed to current electrical codes and backed by our 2-year guarantee.
We proudly serve Calgary and surrounding communities including Chestermere, Airdrie, and Okotoks. If you're unsure whether we cover your area, please give us a call at 587-837-4405 and we'll be happy to help.
We provide transparent "down-to-the-penny" pricing with written estimates before any work begins. Costs vary by project scope, but we always offer multiple options to fit different budgets. Contact us for a free consultation and detailed quote.
Yes, we handle all necessary permits, inspections, and coordination with the City of Calgary and ENMAX. We ensure all work meets code requirements and passes inspection the first time. Permits are included in our project quotes.
We offer a comprehensive 2-year guarantee on all parts and service. Additionally, we don't accept payment until you're 100% satisfied with the completed work. Your satisfaction and safety are our top priorities.
We typically respond to inquiries within 24 hours and can often schedule consultations within a few days. Project start times vary based on current workload and project complexity, but we always work to accommodate your timeline.
Questions about basement electrical installations
Yes, any new electrical work in a basement development requires a permit from the City of Calgary. We handle all permit applications, submissions, and inspections as part of our service. This ensures your basement is code-compliant and safe.
Building codes require outlets every 12 feet along walls in living spaces, with additional requirements for kitchens and bathrooms. We design outlet placement strategically to meet code while maximizing convenience and minimizing visible cords.
Yes! We install all electrical requirements for basement kitchenettes including dedicated circuits for appliances, GFCI protected outlets, and proper lighting. If you're creating a legal secondary suite, there are additional requirements we can explain.
A typical basement development electrical project takes 3-7 days depending on the size and complexity. This includes rough-in, inspection, and finishing. We coordinate closely with other trades to minimize project delays.
Many basement developments require panel upgrades, especially if you're adding significant load (kitchen, bathroom, multiple rooms). We assess your current service during our consultation and include any necessary upgrades in your quote.
Legal suite electrical requirements and setup
Legal secondary suites require separate electrical systems from the main residence, including dedicated circuits, separate smoke alarms interconnected within the suite, CO detectors, GFCI protection in wet areas, and often a service upgrade. We ensure all City of Calgary requirements are met.
Most secondary suites require upgrading from 60A or 100A service to 200A to handle the additional electrical load. We perform load calculations during consultation to determine if an upgrade is necessary and include it in your quote.
No, building codes require secondary suites to have separate electrical systems from the main residence. This includes separate circuits, though they typically share the same main panel (unless separate metering is desired).
Complete secondary suite electrical work typically ranges from $8,000-$15,000 depending on suite size, existing infrastructure, and whether a panel upgrade is needed. We provide detailed written estimates after assessing your specific situation.
Secondary suite electrical work requires permits and inspections at the rough-in stage (before drywall) and final stage (after completion). We coordinate all inspections with the City of Calgary and ensure everything passes first time.
Safety and replacement of aluminum wiring systems
Aluminum wiring was commonly installed in homes built between 1965-1975. You can check by looking at cable markings (usually stamped "AL" or "ALUMINUM") near your electrical panel or on visible cables in the attic or basement. We provide free assessments if you're unsure.
Aluminum wiring can pose fire hazards due to its expansion/contraction properties causing loose connections over time. It's 55 times more likely to reach "fire hazard conditions" than copper wiring. However, proper remediation makes it safe.
Many insurance companies will not insure homes with aluminum wiring, or charge higher premiums. After professional remediation (full copper rewiring or Aluminum to Copper pigtail splices), we provide certification that satisfies insurance requirements.
While not legally required, aluminum wiring often prevents home sales or reduces offers significantly. Most buyers' home inspections flag it as a concern, and many lenders require remediation before approving mortgages.
Full copper rewiring removes all aluminum wire and replaces it with copper ($12,000-$20,000). Aluminum to Copper splices use special connectors to safely join aluminum wire to copper pigtails at every connection point ($2,000-$6,000). Both options meet safety standards and insurance requirements.
Aluminum wiring splice "pigtail" restoration typically takes 2-4 days with minimal disruption. Full copper rewiring takes 1-2 weeks and requires more extensive work including drywall repairs. We provide detailed timelines during consultation.
Electric vehicle charger setup and requirements
Level 2 chargers (240V) are recommended for home use, providing 25-30 miles of range per hour of charging. Level 1 (120V) is too slow for daily use. We install Level 2 chargers compatible with all EV brands including Tesla, Ford, Chevy, and more.
Many homes have sufficient capacity for EV chargers, but older 100A or 60A panels often require upgrades to 200A service or Vehicle Energy Management Systems. We perform load calculations during consultation to determine if an upgrade is necessary.
Yes, Tesla vehicles come with adapters to charge from any Level 2 charger (J1772 connector). We can also install Tesla-specific Wall Connectors if preferred. All major EV charger brands work with all EV brands.
Rebate programs vary by year and municipality. Currently, some utility companies and government programs offer incentives for EV charger installation. We can provide information on current available rebates during consultation.
Most EV charger installations are completed in 4-8 hours. If a panel upgrade is required, add 1-2 additional days. We schedule installations at your convenience and leave your property clean.
Electrical panel replacement and upgrades
Signs include: frequent breaker trips, dimming lights when appliances start, inability to add new circuits, planning major renovations, adding EV charger, or having a 60A/100A panel. We provide free assessments to determine if an upgrade is needed.
Most panel upgrades are completed in one day. This includes ENMAX disconnection/reconnection, panel replacement, and all required permits and inspections. Your power will be off for several hours during the work.
Yes, power will be disconnected by ENMAX during panel replacement, typically for 4-8 hours. We coordinate timing with you and ENMAX to minimize inconvenience, and can often complete work during daytime hours.
Yes, all panel upgrades require electrical permits and inspections. We handle all permit applications, ENMAX coordination, and inspections as part of our service. Permits ensure work is safe and code-compliant.
If you're replacing a panel anyway, upgrading to 200A is recommended even if current needs are lower. It future-proofs your home for EV chargers, major renovations, or modern appliances, and may be required for home resale.
Electrical work for home renovations
Involve us early in the planning stage, ideally before demolition. This allows proper planning for lighting, outlets, switches, and any electrical challenges. Early involvement prevents costly changes later.
Any new electrical work or significant modifications require permits in Calgary. We handle all permit applications and inspections. Minor work like replacing fixtures typically doesn't require permits.
Absolutely! We regularly collaborate with contractors, designers, and other trades. We coordinate our schedule with your renovation timeline to ensure smooth project flow and minimize delays.
Costs vary widely based on project scope, from $2,000 for basic kitchen updates to $15,000+ for whole-home renovations. We provide detailed written estimates after reviewing your renovation plans.
