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What Is an Electrical Contractor? 

Electrical contractors design, construct and maintain electrical systems in buildings (i.e., homes, offices and industrial buildings). The term is used to identify both the companies which offer these services and the individuals who perform them.

There are three broad categories of electrical contractors: 

  • Inside electrical contractors: As the name suggests, these contractors oversee the electrical systems inside buildings. This includes electrical outlets, light fixtures and other interior construction components. 
  • Outside electrical contractors: These contractors control outside systems. Among them are lineworkers who maintain electrical and telecommunications lines.
  • Contractors of integrated building systems: These contractors oversee a building’s integrated systems (e.g., access and climate control, networks, lighting, etc.).

What Does an Electrical Contractor Do? 

In general, an electrical contractor is responsible for the following:

  • Electrical system installation, maintenance and troubleshooting 
  • Project administration (including planning and resource allocation) 
  • Client relationship management 

The day-to-day tasks of an electrical contractor vary based on their area of expertise and the phase of the project for which they have been hired. For example, electrical contractors brought in before a building’s construction may be asked to select and install the optimal system for the customer. On the other hand, electrical contractors hired to serve an existing facility may need to update or maintain the current system. 

In addition to performing the actual work, electrical contractors must schedule their employees to assure timely completion of the project (just like other subcontractors). This demands expertise in subcontractor software operation

7 Signs You Need To Call an Electrical Contractor

1. Flickering Lights 

The flickering of lights can indicate that your electrical circuit has larger problems. Although it may be tempting to disregard flickering lights as just an annoyance, you should always get them inspected by an electrician, in case of an overloaded circuit or decaying wiring. 

2. Melted Fuse Box Wires 

Periodically inspecting your fuse box to guarantee its proper operation is essential. Find any broken or singed wires before it’s too late; not only can singed wires impact your power, but they may also constitute a serious fire danger.

3. Outlets Feel Warm 

A fast inspection of your home’s outlets is necessary to verify the electrical wiring is functioning properly. If your outlet feels warm, this indicates a more serious electrical problem; you should immediately contact an electrician. 

4. Constantly Tripping Circuit Breakers

We tend to neglect faulty circuits much too frequently, despite their prevalence. If you have frequent power outages, it’s time to call an electrician to do troubleshooting.

5. Burning Scent

Burning odors may indicate an electrical fire or something worse; therefore, it’s crucial to address the problem promptly to avoid endangering yourself and others. Immediately switch off the electricity in your house if you detect a burning odor. Then, contact an electrician to troubleshoot the problem. 

6. Buzzing Sound 

We’re all acquainted with the scenario of unwinding at home and then hearing a mild buzzing sound. This might be challenging to identify since numerous disorders can cause the buzzing sound. However, there’s a possibility the problem is a serious electrical or wiring issue. You shouldn’t take a chance; instead, contact an electrical contractor to assess the problem. 

7. Moving to a New Location 

When moving into a new house, it’s easy to get preoccupied with other chores and neglect normal safety tasks. However, before you sign the lease, you need to engage an electrical professional to guarantee the entire electrical system is up to code. 

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, contact Gregg Electric in the Vancouver area immediately. It’s easy to forget about such matters, but you shouldn’t endanger your safety. Putting off contacting an electrician can endanger you and others.

Gregg Electric is the Vancouver area’s best electrical contractor. Visit us online or call us in Abbotsford at (604) 557-4734 today.