You have questions; Brda has answers. Find the most common questions asked about residential electrical work. Can’t find your answer below? Contact us—we’re happy to help!
Company & Project Process Questions
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. Brda Electric is fully licensed and insured. Licensing ensures that our home electricians meet industry standards and local regulations. Insurance coverage protects against any unforeseen incidents during your electrical project.
Will you handle obtaining the necessary permits?
Yes, Brda Electric takes care of obtaining the necessary permits required for electrical work. Our team is knowledgeable about the local regulations and permitting procedures in all regions we serve, ensuring that all projects are legally compliant.
What safety measures do you take?
Safety is our top priority at Brda Electric. We conduct comprehensive risk assessments before every project, use personal protective equipment, and adhere to industry-standard safety standards.
How do you handle unexpected issues or changes in the project?
Flexibility and clear communication are key. Brda Electric takes a proactive approach by conducting thorough inspections and risk planning before projects start. If an unexpected issue arises, we act quickly to communicate the problem and prevent project disruption. Significant changes are discussed with clients to ensure agreement and prevent surprises.
Service Coverage & Special Property Types
What residential electrical services do you offer?
Brda Electric offers a wide array of residential electrical services—including installation, maintenance, repair, solar, design, system upgrades, electrical inspections, and much more. We’re equipped to handle projects of all sizes and complexities.
Learn more about our residential services.
Can Brda Electric assist with electrical services for historic homes in St. Louis?
Yes. Brda Electric understands the preservation requirements unique to historical buildings. Our experts can maintain the original integrity of your property while meeting modern safety and efficiency standards.
Are there special considerations for electrical systems on waterfront properties?
Waterfront properties near the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers require special considerations due to the increased risk of flooding and moisture-related issues. Brda Electric uses specialized techniques such as elevating electrical systems and using moisture-resistant wiring to protect your property’s electrical integrity.
Can you ensure my property meets local electrical codes and safety standards?
Absolutely. Brda Electric is committed to ensuring all work complies with electrical codes and safety regulations. Our licensed electricians stay at the leading edge of industry standards and integrate them into our services, ensuring your property is safe and code-compliant.
Emergency & Preparedness
What do your emergency electrical services cover?
Our expert electricians offer same-day emergency service for power outages, faulty wiring, burning smells, sparking outlets, and other urgent electrical issues.
How often should I have my home’s electrical system inspected?
We recommend having your home’s electrical system inspected annually to ensure safety, efficiency, and code compliance. While inspections are typically suggested every 3 to 5 years, annual checkups can help catch potential issues early—especially in newly purchased or renovated homes.
Our Home Guard Plan includes an annual inspection as part of the membership, along with other valuable perks like priority service and exclusive discounts. Brda electricians can also help you create a tailored maintenance schedule based on your home’s unique needs.
How can I prepare my electrical system for St. Louis weather conditions?
Homeowners can prepare for St. Louis storms by installing surge protectors, backup generators, or solar batteries to maintain power during surges and outages. It’s also essential to keep your home's electrical system maintained and up-to-date. Brda’s home electricians can inspect your system and advise on safeguards to protect your property from inclement weather.
How often should smoke and carbon-monoxide (CO) detectors be replaced?
Sensors lose accuracy over time. Replace smoke detectors at least every 10 years and CO detectors every 5 to 7 years, or sooner if manufacturer guidelines specify.
Learn more about smoke and CO detector best practices.
Home Efficiency & Electrical Upgrades
What home upgrades can I use to lower my energy usage?
Households have several upgrade options that reduce energy consumption. Installing LED lighting or high-efficiency ceiling fans is a relatively inexpensive way to lower your electric bill. High-tech solutions—such as solar systems, smart panels, thermostats, and home automation systems—are larger upfront investments but yield a higher long-term payoff.
Check out our homeowner’s guide to electrical upgrades for more energy-saving tips.
Can new LED lighting really lower my electric bill?
Yes—modern LED fixtures use less than half the energy of traditional incandescent bulbs.
What’s involved in replacing outdated circuit breakers?
Upgrading breakers can improve safety and eliminate excessive switch trips. Your electrician will start with an inspection to determine your home’s panel compatibility. During the replacement, power will be temporarily shut off for safety. The whole procedure typically takes several hours and can be completed in a single visit.
Learn more about our residential circuit breaker services.
Solar & Power Infrastructure
How long does a residential solar installation usually take?
Solar system installation times depend largely on project scale and complexity. Inspection, design, permitting, utility approval, and on-site work may add up to multiple weeks, but the actual install typically only takes one to two days.
Learn more about home solar installation.
Will a Tesla Powerwall keep my whole house running during an outage?
A single Powerwall can back up critical circuits like refrigeration, lighting, and outlets. Larger homes or heavy loads may require multiple units or a partial-home backup plan.
What incentives can I claim for solar panels and batteries?
There are federal, state, and local incentives that can all help lower the cost and payback period of a home solar system. Your Brda technician can help you navigate these incentives and determine which you may qualify for.
Do I need to upgrade my electrical panel before installing an electric vehicle (EV) charger?
Whether or not you need a panel upgrade to install an EV charger depends on your system’s current load capacity and usage. Your Brda electrician can help evaluate your system and determine if upgrades are needed.
Learn more about our EV charger installation process.
How much does a whole-home generator installation cost?
Residential generator installation costs depend on your home’s unique features, expected energy usage, and chosen generator model. Pricing varies widely, but Brda can provide an estimate before you commit.
Learn more about our home generator installation services.
Specialty Service Questions
What’s unique about HVAC equipment wiring?
HVAC units need dedicated circuits sized for their compressor and blower loads, along with properly rated disconnects. Tight connections and correct breaker sizing prevent nuisance trips and extend equipment life.
Learn more about residential HVAC.
How disruptive is a whole-house lighting retrofit?
Most retrofits are completed room by room with minimal drywall cuts since existing switch boxes and wiring can often be reused. Dust containment and daily cleanup help keep your home livable throughout the project.
Connectivity & Security System Questions
Will adding security cameras strain my home Wi-Fi network?
Each wireless home security camera will add to your Wi-Fi network’s total load, but there are solutions. Wired security cameras may not require any network connection. You can also upgrade to a dual-band router to help prevent slowdown.
Read more about choosing the right security system.
What’s the benefit of professional voice, data, and fiber wiring over Wi-Fi alone?
Hardwired lines deliver faster, more reliable service. They also isolate critical devices from wireless congestion and help future-proof your home.
Learn more on our data cabling page.
Still Have Questions?
Contact Brda Electric for personalized answers based on decades of expertise.
