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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Here at Take Charge Electric, we are happy to help out however we can! If you don't see your question, feel free to give us a call at 253.900.9798 or email us at takechargeelectric@gmail.com. 

We proudly service Key Peninsula, Gig Harbor, Port Orchard, Silverdale, Bremerton, and surrounding areas!

We provide a free estimate for all major projects. Our free estimates exclude real estate estimates and minor repairs. Drop us a line, and we will get back to you quickly with a quote for those services. 


Yes we do! Life is unpredictable. We can help you choose the backup generator that will meet your needs and install it so that you are ready for any unexpected power outages. We handle everything in the process for you, from helping you select the right one, ordering, scheduling delivery and start up, coordinating gas line hook up to the unit, and completing all permitting and inspections.


To learn more about which generator could be right for you, check out our blog post about it HERE!


Portable generators can be plugged into appliances (with caution), but whole-home generators need to be professionally installed. Improper connections can backfeed power into the utility lines, putting you and lineworkers at risk—and it may void your warranty or violate code.


When you protect your whole house from power surges, you’ll protect all of the equipment in it instead of just one piece that’s plugged into a surge protector. This can come in especially handy if you use a lot of electronics or appliances. 


Learn more about the benefits of whole-house surge protection here!


You may have seen an electrical outlet with a “test” and “reset” button in the middle – this is a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter). It automatically shuts off an electrical circuit when it detects that the current isn’t flowing correctly. It’s also used to reduce the risk of electrical shock from a receptacle located in damp locations and/or counter top areas. 


It could be a tripped GFCI outlet somewhere upstream, a loose connection, or a worn-out outlet. GFCIs protect multiple outlets, so check bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and the panel for reset buttons before assuming something bigger is wrong. 


Yes, if it trips once and resetting it restores power without further issue. But if the breaker keeps tripping, don’t keep flipping it—it’s trying to protect your home from a bigger problem like overheating wires or a faulty appliance. 


To properly reset your breaker, first you should turn off or unplug anything on the affected circuit, then go to your electrical panel (often located in the garage, basement, or utility room), find the tripped breaker (the switch will be in the middle position and will look slightly out of alignment), flip the breaker ALL THE WAY to the off position (you should hear a click), then flip the breaker ALL THE WAY back to the on position (you should hear another click). Then you can return inside your home to check to see if power has been restored.


First, unplug anything that’s connected to that circuit and reset the breaker. If it trips again, it could mean there’s an overload, short circuit, or ground fault. Avoid resetting it repeatedly—it’s a sign something needs professional attention. 


This usually happens because your microwave is overloading the circuit. Microwaves draw a lot of power—often more than 1,000 watts—so if the same circuit is powering other outlets or appliances (like toasters, coffee makers, or lights), it can trip the breaker. 


Learn more about the dangers behind overloaded circuits here!


Flickering lights can be caused by loose bulbs, bad light switches, overloaded circuits, or even problems at the utility line. If it happens with multiple lights or gets worse over time, it could indicate a more serious wiring or panel issue that should be checked by a licensed electrician. 


Learn more about the meaning behind your flickering lights here!


Buzzing dimmer lights are usually caused by an incompatibility between the dimmer switch and the type of bulbs being used—especially with LED bulbs. Most older dimmers were designed for incandescent lights, and when paired with modern LEDs, they can cause flickering or a faint buzzing sound. 


 LED lights are more expensive to purchase than incandescent lights, but they’re more efficient (they’ll last 50,000 hours instead of 1,200 hours). They also have a lower annual operating cost, which is great for people trying to “go green.” 


You might need a panel upgrade if your home still has a 100-amp panel, your breakers trip often, lights dim when large appliances run, or you’re planning to add things like an EV charger, hot tub, or air conditioning. A modern 200-amp panel gives your home more room to safely grow. 


Find more details here!


Technically yes, but it’s slow and not ideal. Standard 120V outlets charge very slowly and may not be rated for continuous high load. A Level 2 charger installed by an electrician is safer, faster, and much more efficient for daily use. 


Not sure which option is best for you? Click here to learn more about the different types of EV chargers!


If wiring is already in place and rated for a fan, some homeowners can install one safely. But if there’s no ceiling-rated box or you’re unsure about the wiring, it’s best to call an electrician. Ceiling fans are heavy and need proper support and connections. 


Some outlets are “split” so one half is controlled by a wall switch. If one plug works and the other doesn’t, try flipping nearby light switches. If that doesn’t help, the outlet may be worn out or improperly wired. 


Every 3–5 years is a good general rule, or sooner if your home is over 30 years old, you’ve added new appliances, or you notice any warning signs like burning smells, hot outlets, or flickering lights. Preventive inspections catch issues before they become expensive problems. 


Take Charge Electric

P.O Box 612 Lakebay WA, 98349

(253) 900-9798

Copyright © 2022 Take Charge Electric - All Rights Reserved.

Electrical License # TAKECCE788MG

General License # TAKECCC783LT

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