Q: Why use Stahl Electric?

A: Stahl Electric has consistently been in business since 1976. Our top quality mechanics have been with us for over a decade. They also are constantly going to classes and seminars to be up to date on code changes and new technology. We also have been involved in helping the community for years. We respect people’s homes, use drop clothes, clean up, and show up when appointments are scheduled. We are licensed throughout the Delaware Valley. Most of our success has been because of referrals.

Q: Is knob and tube wiring safe?

A: Most houses that were built from 1880-1945 have knob and tube. Knob and tubing has its problems, soldering in walls and ceilings cannot be insulated and should not be used for today’s appliances, like, air conditioners, plug in heaters, etc. It depends on the condition of the wiring and each situation.

Q: Is my wiring up-to-date?

A: Most homeowners and inspectors cannot always identify the age of wiring. It takes a trained electrician to do this. If your home was built between 1920 and 1960, the wiring that was used has a tendency to dry rot and cause many problems. Your house should be inspected to determine if your wiring is up-to-date.

Q: Am I responsible for the service cable and meter box outside?

A: Yes, you are responsible for the meter box and the connection to your property from the electric company’s equipment.

Q: Do you give free estimates?

A: Yes, except for real estate transactions and for small repairs. The charge for a real estate transaction is $100, if you decide to do the work; the $100 will be taken off the balance. Small repairs would be considered a service call and you would be charged our service call rate.

Q: Why do my fuses blow or breakers trip?

A: Usually because you have overloaded the circuit with things like; air conditioners, microwaves, plug in heaters, toasters, etc. It does not always matter how big your service is, it usually has to do with a branch circuit, which is from the breaker box to the problem device.

Q: Why do my lamps burn out early?

A: There are several reasons, it could be the quality of the lamps you are using or the house could be at the high end voltage of the electric service on your street.

Q: Why does my house have blinking lights sometimes?

A: There are several reasons; you may need more branch circuits throughout the house, or you may have loose connections in the breaker box, meter box or throughout the house. This could cause a potential fire.

Q: What are GFCI devices?

A: GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) are required in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, garages and outside. These are life-saving devices against electrical shock.

Q: What are arc fault breakers and why do I need them?

A: Several years ago, the code was updated and it requires us to install arc fault breakers in the house wherever there are new lines being installed except for where GFCI devices are required (kitchens and bathrooms, etc.). This is a major breakthrough in our industry. This is one of the most intelligent breakers. They monitor the current and discriminate between normal and unwanted arcing conditions. Arc fault breakers are primarily designed to protect against electrical fires caused by arcing.

Q: Why would I need a generator?

A: We recommend using a generator so that there is no interruption in your electrical service during a storm or power outage. See our page on generators.