Why is PG&E Telling Me I Need to Find a Local Electrician?

[fa icon="calendar"] August 22, 2014 / by Home Services Expert

Electricity is one of those things that society has started to take for granted. It’s always there when we expect it to be and 99% of the time it works the way we need it to. So, when it doesn’t work we call the people who know the most about electricity, PG&E. But what happens when PG&E says that they can’t work on a problem?

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Why is PG&E telling me to call an electrician?

PG&E is the main utility supplier for most of Central and Northern California. PG&E specializes in providing all the power a home needs. As long as your home is getting electricity, PG&E is doing its job. PG&E is not responsible for any electrical problems inside the dwelling. So, when PG&E is telling somebody to call an electrician, it isn’t because they don’t care, it’s because the responsibility falls onto the homeowner.

When do I need to call a licensed local electrician?

Electrical problems can lead to some very dangerous situations if you are not trained on how to properly handle them. Faulty wiring can lead to accidental shocks, electrical fires and malfunctioning appliances. Every year there are over 400 deaths due to electrocution with another 4,400 electrocutions requiring medical attention. By hiring a licensed local electrician, you are decreasing the chances of harming yourself, your loved ones and your house. Unless you are a confident DIY-er, if it involves more effort than changing a light bulb or replacing an outlet cover, you will be better off hiring an expert.

What are the probable issues that will need an electrician?

As stated before, if you aren’t trained in electrical work call a local electrician for anything. That being said here are some common issues that homeowners experience that require the help of an electrician.

  • You move into a new home and the ceiling fan in the bedroom doesn’t work. This is a common problem. Usually, it is because the wiring is done incorrectly. There is no risk if left unattended, but a ceiling fan definitely helps cool the house down in the summer.
     
  • You found the perfect house but it needs upgrading. States are constantly updating codes to protect homes and homeowners. If your house isn’t up to date on your state’s building codes, it could cost you when it comes time to sell the house. It’s better to take care of it as soon as possible to avoid any costly repairs down the road.
     
  • The outlets are warm to the touch. This is a problem that needs immediate attention. This is a sign of bad wiring and could lead to electrocutions or electrical fires. Calling a licensed local electrician to fix it will be your best bet for safety.

What questions should I ask the electrician?

Asking questions is very important to finding the right electrician. Electricity is a subject that not a lot of people know about, so finding an electrician that is dependable is important.

Be sure to ask for references and to see a contractor’s license. There are a lot of trustworthy electricians in your area, but there are a few that take advantage of people. Decrease the chances by making sure that the electrician is properly trained and is highly recommended.

If you are having trouble finding a local electrician that you trust, contact a local and licensed electrician in the Chico area from Experts In Your Home. 

Download the FREE guide below to learn when to call a pro for your home electrical needs:

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