Author name: Ask An Electrician

In just the last few years, smart devices have completely changed the way we live in our homes. From smart thermostats to voice-controlled lights, today’s technology offers convenience, safety, and even energy savings. But as homes get “smarter,” so does the need for skilled installation and proper electrical support.

Let’s take a closer look at how smart tech is reshaping the modern home—and why having a qualified electrician on your side matters more than ever.

Smart Devices Are Becoming the New Normal in Everyday Homes

More homeowners are making the switch to smart devices than ever before. But what does that mean, exactly?

Common smart upgrades include:

• Smart thermostats that learn your schedule and reduce energy waste
• Voice-controlled lighting systems that turn lights on or off with a command
• Smart outlets and switches that connect to your phone for full control
• Security cameras and doorbells that give real-time updates on your phone

These systems all connect through Wi-Fi, but they still depend on solid, safe electrical work behind the walls. That’s where the role of a trusted electrician comes in.

Why Smart Homes Still Need Professional Wiring and Installation

While many smart gadgets are designed to be “plug and play,” some still require wiring upgrades or changes in your electrical panel. This is especially true if you live in an older home or plan to connect multiple devices.

Here’s why hiring an electrician is smart:

• Some devices require low-voltage wiring or special breakers
• Older homes may need updated panels to handle added load
• Certain systems need new outlets or wall-mounted installs

Trying to DIY complex installs can result in damaged devices—or worse, unsafe wiring. That’s why many local homeowners bring in an experienced Idaho Falls ID electrician to handle the setup from the start.

How Smart Devices Can Actually Help You Save Money Over Time

Smart technology isn’t just about convenience—it can lead to real savings. Once connected and programmed, these systems work around your habits to reduce waste and cut utility bills.

Homeowners often save money through:

• Lower heating and cooling costs with smart thermostats
• Reduced power use by turning off lights remotely
• Smarter charging habits for EVs and appliances

A licensed electrician can help you understand which systems make the most sense for your lifestyle, and make sure they’re installed correctly for maximum savings.

Choosing the Right Partner for Your Smart Home Setup

Getting started with smart tech doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Working with someone who understands both the gadgets and the wiring ensures everything works together safely.

Look for an installer who:

• Has experience with smart home systems and electrical codes
• Understands your goals (comfort, energy savings, security, etc.)
• Offers support for both setup and future maintenance

When you work with experts like the team at Platinum Electric, the job gets done safely and smoothly, and you get to enjoy the future of home living with peace of mind.

Conclusion: A Smart Home Starts with Smart Decisions

Adding smart devices is exciting, but it works best when backed by the right electrical setup. Whether you’re upgrading one room or your entire home, having a skilled electrician ensures everything runs safely and efficiently. Don’t cut corners—invest in proper installation so your smart devices deliver what they promise.

Want to bring smart technology into your home the right way? Call Platinum Electric at (208) 313-8385 for expert support and professional installation. Your smarter home starts here.

We also provide services to Blackfoot, Collins, Chubbuck, Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rexburg, Jackson, Island Park, Shelley, Iona, and all surrounding areas.

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Choosing the right person to work on your home’s wiring is a big decision. You’re trusting someone with your home, safety, and money. So, how do you know whom to trust?

At Platinum Electric, we believe every homeowner deserves honest, skilled help. That’s why we put together this list of five key questions to ask any electrician before hiring them. These tips will help you avoid costly mistakes and choose the right professional.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured? (This Should Be Non-Negotiable)

Before anything else, ask if the electrician is licensed and carries insurance. These are two things that protect you as a homeowner.

Look for:

• A current state license for electrical work
• General liability insurance and workers’ compensation
• Willingness to provide proof of both

We carry full licensing and insurance at Platinum Electric because we believe in protecting both our team and our customers. When you work with us, you’re covered.

2. What Kind of Experience Do You Have With Projects Like Mine?

Every electrician comes with a different set of skills and experiences. So, make sure to ask your electrician if they have experience working on jobs similar to yours in the past.

Helpful questions include:

• Have you worked on older homes or updated wiring?
• Have you installed smart lighting or panels?
• Do you know the latest safety codes in Idaho Falls?

We’ve seen it all—from full rewires to simple outlet fixes. That’s what makes our team the go-to choice for reliable help in the Idaho Falls area.

3. Can You Provide References or Reviews From Past Clients?

Before making a final decision, check what others have to say. You can learn a lot from past customers.

Here’s what to ask:

• Do you have online reviews I can look at?
• Can you give references from similar jobs?
• Are there photos of your recent work?

Platinum Electric is proud of our 5-star reputation. Our clients speak for us—and we’re happy to connect new customers with past ones for peace of mind.

4. What Is the Estimated Cost and How Long Will It Take?

No one wants surprise costs or delays. Make sure your electrician gives you a clear, written estimate.

Ask for:

• A detailed breakdown of labor and materials
• An expected timeline from start to finish
• Information on how they handle unexpected changes

We keep our pricing honest and timelines realistic. That’s why so many Idaho homeowners come back to us again and again when they need an Idaho Falls ID electrician.

5. Do You Offer Any Kind of Work Guarantee or Warranty?

You deserve to know what happens if something breaks later. Ask about service guarantees before signing anything.

Ask them:

• Do you stand by your work after the job is done?
• How do you handle warranty claims or callbacks?
• Will there be extra charges if I call you back?

At Platinum Electric, we guarantee our work and your satisfaction. If something’s wrong, we’ll fix it—because that’s just how we do business.

Conclusion:

Making the right choice matters. These five questions will help you avoid stress, wasted money, or unsafe repairs. Most of all, they’ll help you find a professional who treats your home like their own.

Ready to work with a team that checks every box? Call Platinum Electric today and let’s take care of your home the right way—safe, smart, and stress-free.

We also provide services to Blackfoot, Collins, Chubbuck, Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rexburg, Jackson, Island Park, Shelley, Iona, and all surrounding areas.…

Home remodels are exciting—they breathe new life into your space and boost your home’s value. But whether you’re redoing a kitchen, adding a room, or updating lighting, electrical work is a major part of most remodeling projects. And it’s not something to take lightly. Bringing in a licensed professional ensures your upgrades are safe, efficient, and built to last.

Safety First: Avoid Costly and Dangerous Mistakes

Electrical systems aren’t the place for guesswork. Mistakes can lead to fire hazards, electric shocks, or system failures that cost more to fix later. A licensed electrician knows how to safely install new circuits, upgrade wiring, and work around existing electrical infrastructure, reducing risk and ensuring every connection is secure.

Here’s what can go wrong without professional help:

• Improper wire connections or circuit overloads
• Faulty grounding or missing GFCI protection
• Increased fire risk from hidden damage

When it comes to safety, cutting corners isn’t worth it, especially when the cost could be your home or your family’s well-being.

Ensure Your Project Meets Code Requirements

Every remodeling project must comply with local and national electrical codes. These rules exist for a reason—they protect your home and your family. DIY work, or hiring an unlicensed contractor, can lead to failed inspections, delays in the remodel, or costly do-overs if corrections are needed.

A Rexburg electrician understands:

• What permits are needed for your remodel
• How to meet the Idaho electrical code
• How to pass inspections the first time

When your project is up to code, you’ll avoid fines, keep everything on schedule, and rest easy knowing the work is legal and safe.

Plan Efficiently with Expert Input

Electricians don’t just install wires—they help you plan smarter. During a remodel, they can recommend better outlet placement, energy-saving fixtures, or smart home upgrades that improve convenience and long-term savings. Their input ensures your space is not only functional but also built for how you actually live.

An experienced electrician can also:

• Help design lighting layouts for aesthetics and function
• Ensure circuits are balanced to avoid overloads
• Recommend future-proof upgrades for growing families or resale value

Bringing an expert in early means fewer changes later—and a smoother remodeling process from start to finish.

Prevent Surprises Behind the Walls

When you start tearing down walls during a remodel, surprises are common. Sometimes what you discover—old aluminum wiring, overloaded breakers, or amateur repairs—requires immediate attention. A licensed electrician can spot and fix these issues before they become bigger problems or delay the entire project.

They’ll also:

• Upgrade outdated panels if needed
• Replace unsafe or deteriorated wiring
• Make sure your new setup works with your existing system

A proactive approach can keep your remodel on track and prevent unexpected costs from spiraling out of control.

Protect Your Investment Long-Term

A remodel is an investment, and like any good investment, it should be protected. Professional electrical work adds long-term value to your home and reassures future buyers that the work was done right, especially when it comes time to sell.

You’ll enjoy:

• Safer living conditions
• Higher resale value
• Fewer repairs or maintenance issues in the future

Quality electrical work is invisible when done right, but it quietly supports everything you rely on, day after day.

Conclusion

Remodeling your home is exciting, but your electrical system isn’t something to leave to chance. Hiring a licensed professional ensures every outlet, light, and appliance works as intended—and keeps your remodel on track.

Call Platinum Electric at (208) 403-3040 to partner with a skilled electrician who puts safety, efficiency, and quality first. Your remodel deserves it.

We also provide services to Blackfoot, Collins, Chubbuck, Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rexburg, Jackson, Island Park, Shelley, Iona, and all surrounding areas.

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Electrical fires are one of the most dangerous threats to a home, often starting behind walls or inside outlets with no visible warning. In Rexburg, where older wiring systems are still common, prevention is key. Taking the right steps now can help you avoid costly damage—or worse, injury to your loved ones.

Watch for Warning Signs Early

Fires rarely happen out of nowhere. There are usually early signs, but they often go unnoticed or ignored until it’s too late. That’s why awareness is your first line of defense.

Common warning signs include:

• Warm or discolored outlets and switch covers
• Buzzing sounds coming from the walls or panels
• Breakers that trip frequently without a clear cause

If you notice any of these, don’t wait. These symptoms point to wiring problems that can quickly escalate if left unchecked.

Use Appliances and Cords Safely

Misusing appliances or extension cords is one of the fastest ways to cause an electrical fire. Even small household items can overload a circuit if not used properly.

To stay safe:

• Never run cords under rugs or furniture
• Avoid daisy-chaining extension cords together
• Unplug appliances when they’re not in use, especially toasters, heaters, and coffee makers

Make sure all appliances are UL-listed and cords aren’t frayed, cracked, or damaged. It only takes one bad wire to start a fire.

Keep Your Electrical Panel Up to Date

If your home’s breaker box hasn’t been inspected in years—or still uses fuses—it could be time for an upgrade. Older panels may not be able to handle your home’s power needs, and faulty breakers can fail to shut off during a short or overload.

Signs you may need a panel inspection:

• Your home still uses a fuse box
• You frequently reset tripped breakers
• You’ve added new high-powered appliances recently

Having a Rexburg electrician check your panel can give you peace of mind and identify issues before they become hazards.

Upgrade Old Wiring Before It Becomes a Problem

Wiring doesn’t last forever. Many homes in Rexburg—especially those built before the 1980s—still have outdated aluminum wiring or brittle insulation that can overheat or spark under pressure. Even if your system seems to work fine, the hidden condition of old wires may tell a different story.

Signs your wiring may need replacement:

• Lights dimming or flickering when large appliances are used
• Outlets that spark when plugging in a device
• A strong “burning plastic” smell with no visible cause

Upgrading old wiring isn’t just about better performance—it can dramatically reduce the risk of electrical fires and bring your system up to current safety codes.

Schedule Regular Inspections with a Pro

One of the smartest things you can do is bring in a licensed electrician for a whole-home safety inspection. These evaluations can catch small problems early, ensure you’re meeting code, and offer tailored recommendations for your home’s age and setup.

A professional inspection covers:

• Interior and exterior outlets and switches
• The main electrical panel and grounding system
• GFCI and AFCI protection in bathrooms, kitchens, and other key areas

Prevention is always cheaper—and safer—than repairs after the fact.

Conclusion

Electrical fires are preventable when you know the risks and take the right steps to stay ahead of them. With routine maintenance, smart appliance habits, and expert help, your home can remain a safe haven for years to come.

Don’t take chances with your safety. Call Platinum Electric at (208) 403-3040 today to schedule a full home inspection with a trusted electrician.

We also provide services to Blackfoot, Collins, Chubbuck, Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rexburg, Jackson, Island Park, Shelley, Iona, and all surrounding areas.…

Your kitchen is one of the hardest-working rooms in the house. It’s where cooking, cleaning, charging devices, and hosting all happen—often all at once. With so much going on, it’s no surprise that electrical issues tend to show up here first. If you’re noticing problems in your Rexburg kitchen, it’s important to address them before they become serious (or dangerous).

Outlets Not Working or Constantly Tripping

One of the most common issues in kitchens is a dead or frequently tripping outlet. In many cases, the problem comes from overloaded circuits—kitchens often use more electricity than other rooms, especially with appliances like toasters, coffee makers, and microwaves all plugged in at once. This issue tends to build up over time and can worsen without warning.

Some possible causes include:

• GFCI outlets tripping due to moisture or wiring issues
• An overloaded circuit from too many high-wattage appliances
• Faulty or worn-out outlets that need replacement

An electrician can quickly diagnose whether you need a simple outlet replacement or a new dedicated circuit to handle your kitchen’s electrical load safely and efficiently.

Flickering Lights or Dim Fixtures

If your lights flicker when you turn on a blender or dim when the refrigerator kicks on, that’s a sign your kitchen wiring may not be up to the task. This is especially common in older homes around Rexburg that weren’t designed for modern electrical needs, and it’s more than just a cosmetic problem.

The solution might include:

• Tightening loose wire connections
• Replacing outdated wiring or fixtures
• Adding dedicated circuits for high-powered appliances

These fixes not only stop the flickering but can also help extend the life of your fixtures and reduce fire risk.

Improper Appliance Wiring

Many kitchen appliances—like ovens, dishwashers, or garbage disposals—require special wiring and dedicated circuits. If you’re noticing issues like frequently tripped breakers or appliances not functioning properly, it could be a sign of incorrect installation or outdated wiring that’s no longer up to code.

Watch for:

• Breakers tripping when you run more than one appliance
• Appliances with inconsistent performance or failure to start
• Burnt smells or buzzing sounds behind appliances

These aren’t just nuisances—they’re safety concerns. Hiring a qualified Rexburg electrician ensures these heavy-duty machines are installed to code and operate safely for the long term.

Lack of GFCI Outlets

By code, kitchens should have GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets, especially near sinks and countertops where water is present. These outlets help prevent shock by cutting power instantly when they detect an imbalance, protecting both you and your appliances.

If your home lacks GFCI protection, or if the GFCIs trip constantly, it’s time to have them inspected and upgraded. A professional can:

• Upgrade your outlets to meet current safety standards
• Identify if frequent tripping is a symptom of deeper wiring problems
• Improve kitchen layout by repositioning or adding outlets

GFCIs aren’t just a requirement—they’re a key part of keeping your kitchen safe, modern, and up to standard.

Conclusion

Electrical issues in the kitchen aren’t just frustrating—they can be signs of deeper safety problems. Whether it’s flickering lights or dead outlets, the best solution is always a safe, professional repair.

Call Platinum Electric at (208) 403-3040 to get your kitchen checked by a licensed electrician. We’ll help you cook, clean, and live without electrical hiccups.

We also provide services to Blackfoot, Collins, Chubbuck, Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rexburg, Jackson, Island Park, Shelley, Iona, and all surrounding areas.

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Your breaker box is the heart of your home’s electrical system. It quietly does its job day after day—until one day it doesn’t. If your lights flicker, breakers trip constantly, or appliances seem underpowered, it might be time to consider an upgrade. 

In Rexburg, where many homes are aging, knowing when to replace your panel can make a huge difference in safety and performance.

Signs Your Breaker Box Is Outdated

It’s easy to overlook your breaker panel—until something starts acting up. Outdated or worn-out panels can create serious safety risks and often give subtle signs before they completely fail.

Here are a few key signs:

• Breakers that trip frequently or won’t reset
• A burning smell or warm panel face
• Visible rust, buzzing noises, or signs of scorching
• The presence of an old fuse box instead of circuit breakers

If you notice any of these, it’s more than just an inconvenience—it may be a hazard. An evaluation by a qualified electrician can quickly reveal if it’s time for an upgrade.

Modern Homes Have Greater Power Demands

Our electrical needs today are higher than ever. From laptops to microwaves, electric vehicles to smart thermostats, your home may be drawing far more power than it was designed to handle. 

That’s why many older homes in Rexburg face issues with outdated panels. They simply weren’t built for today’s tech-heavy lifestyle.

A modern breaker panel provides:

• The capacity to run multiple high-demand devices at once
• Space for future circuits and home upgrades
• Better protection against shorts, surges, and overloads

It’s not just about what you use today—it’s about being ready for tomorrow.

When You’re Planning Renovations or Additions

Thinking about adding a hot tub, building a new room, or finishing the basement? Any home addition changes your electrical load, and that can quickly overwhelm an older breaker panel.

If you’re planning any of the following, a panel upgrade should be part of your checklist:

• Installing new kitchen or laundry appliances
• Building a detached garage or workshop
• Wiring a home office, home theater, or charging station

Doing the upgrade now saves you from costly rework later and helps everything run smoother from the start.

The Safety and Insurance Factor

Old electrical panels aren’t just a power issue—they’re a safety risk. Some older brands, like Zinsco or Federal Pacific, have known safety flaws that could lead to fires or shocks. Many insurance companies know this and may charge higher premiums or even deny coverage altogether.

Replacing your panel with an electrician can offer:

• Arc-fault and ground-fault protection to prevent hazards
• Safer, more reliable performance for the entire household
• A stronger position during home inspections or sales

Safety, value, and peace of mind—all in one smart upgrade.

Conclusion

If your breaker panel is struggling to keep up or showing signs of wear, don’t wait for a major outage or hazard to act. A timely upgrade can improve your home’s safety, efficiency, and resale value.

Call Platinum Electric at (208) 403-3040 to schedule your inspection with a reliable Rexburg electrician. We’ll help you power up with confidence.

We also provide services to Blackfoot, Collins, Chubbuck, Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rexburg, Jackson, Island Park, Shelley, Iona, and all surrounding areas.…

Electrical issues aren’t always obvious, but they can be dangerous if left unchecked. That’s why home safety inspections are so important. In Idaho Falls, professional electricians perform detailed inspections to identify risks, bring systems up to code, and make sure your home is safe from hidden hazards.

What an Electrical Safety Inspection Covers

A home electrical inspection isn’t just a quick glance at your panel. It’s a full evaluation of your system’s health, both inside and out. Electricians check all major components to make sure they meet safety standards and are working as they should.

Here’s what a thorough inspection typically includes:

• Checking your breaker panel for damage, loose wires, or outdated parts
• Testing outlets and switches for proper function and grounding
• Inspecting wiring for wear, fraying, or signs of overheating
• Verifying GFCI and AFCI protection where required (like bathrooms and kitchens)
• Assessing outdoor electrical systems, lighting, and grounding rods

Every inspection ends with a detailed report—and if something’s wrong, you’ll know exactly what needs attention.

Common Problems Electricians Find in Idaho Falls Homes

Many older homes in Idaho Falls were built before today’s electrical codes. As a result, electricians often find issues that need upgrades or repairs, not necessarily because they’re broken, but because they’re outdated or risky.

Some of the most common issues we see include:

• Overloaded circuits that can trip breakers or overheat wires
• Two-prong outlets that lack proper grounding
• Outdated aluminum wiring, which can become loose and start fires
• Lack of surge protection for modern appliances and devices

Even homes built more recently can have problems if shortcuts were taken during construction or past repairs.

Why Regular Inspections Are Worth It

You might think, “If nothing’s wrong, why get an inspection?” But that’s the point—inspections catch problems before they become dangerous. Fires, shocks, and power loss often start from small, unnoticed issues.

Here’s why an inspection is a smart move:

• You’ll know your home meets the latest safety standards
• It can help prevent expensive emergencies down the road
• You’ll have peace of mind knowing your family is protected
• It’s often required for home sales, insurance, or major renovations

Think of it like a yearly checkup, only for your house.

How Electricians Keep You Informed

One thing we pride ourselves on is transparency. After a home safety inspection, you should feel empowered, not confused. That’s why professional electricians explain everything they find in clear, simple terms.

You’ll receive a report that outlines:

• What’s working properly
• What’s risky or outdated
• What needs urgent repair vs. what’s just a recommendation

No pressure, no upselling—just honest advice so you can make the best decision for your home.

Conclusion

Your home should be the safest place in your life. A professional electrical safety inspection helps make sure it stays that way. Don’t wait for a major issue to reveal itself—take charge now and protect your home, family, and peace of mind.

Call Platinum Electric at (208) 403-3040 to schedule your inspection with a trusted Idaho Falls ID electrician. We’ll help you keep your home safe, smart, and up to code.

We also provide services to Blackfoot, Collins, Chubbuck, Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rexburg, Jackson, Island Park, Shelley, Iona, and all surrounding areas.

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When a power outage hits, everything comes to a sudden stop. Lights go out, appliances shut off, and your comfort and safety are instantly affected. In Idaho Falls, where winter storms and grid issues can strike unexpectedly, more homeowners are choosing to install backup generators. It’s not just about convenience—it’s about being prepared.

A professionally installed generator can keep your home running smoothly even when the rest of the neighborhood goes dark. Let’s take a closer look at the top reasons why this upgrade is worth considering.

Stay Comfortable During Power Outages

When the grid goes down, a home generator steps in to keep life running smoothly. Beyond just lights, it powers your essentials so your home stays warm, safe, and livable—even during long outages or harsh Idaho winters.

A generator can power your most critical systems, including:

• Your heating or cooling system
• Food storage, keeping your fridge and freezer operational
• Medical devices that require constant power

Instead of scrambling for flashlights and blankets, you can carry on with life as normal.

Protect Your Home and Valuables

Losing power can lead to more than just inconvenience. A generator helps guard your home against risks like frozen pipes, data loss, or broken security systems. It’s about protecting what matters, even when you’re not home.

Power loss can cause long-term damage, especially when it’s cold. Without heat, pipes can freeze and burst. Security systems may go offline, and the surge that happens when power returns can fry electronics. A backup generator reduces all those risks and keeps your home secure.

Add Value to Your Property

Buyers love peace of mind. A standby generator not only makes your home more appealing—it can also increase market value and show that your property is ready for emergencies and more energy-resilient than others.

More homeowners today are seeking energy reliability. Having a professionally installed generator can be a selling point—and in some cases, insurance providers may offer premium discounts due to reduced property risk.

Choose the Right Generator for Your Needs

Not all generators are created equal. Choosing the right one means balancing power needs, budget, and convenience. A qualified electrician will help you weigh your options and install the perfect system tailored to your home.

Whole-home standby generators turn on automatically and provide continuous power, while portable ones must be started manually and only run certain appliances. An electrician can help determine:

• What size generator fits your home’s energy use
• Whether you want full or partial backup power
• The best location for a safe and efficient installation

With the right guidance, you’ll get a system that works exactly when you need it.

Conclusion

If you’ve ever been left in the dark during an outage, you know how disruptive it can be. A backup generator gives you control, comfort, and confidence—no matter what the weather or grid throws your way.

Be ready for the unexpected. Call Platinum Electric at (208) 403-3040 today for professional advice and installation from your trusted Idaho Falls ID electrician.

We also provide services to Blackfoot, Collins, Chubbuck, Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rexburg, Jackson, Island Park, Shelley, Iona, and all surrounding areas.

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So, you’ve got an electric vehicle—or you’re planning to get one soon. That’s exciting! But with that big step comes another: installing a home EV charger. 

While it might sound like a DIY project, EV charger installation is best handled by professionals who understand the wiring, power demands, and safety codes involved. If you’re in Idaho Falls, here’s how the process works from start to finish.

Start with a Home Assessment

The first step in any installation is checking whether your home is ready. Not every electrical panel can support a high-powered Level 2 charger, so a licensed electrician will need to evaluate your system. They’ll look at:

• The available capacity in your current electrical panel
• The distance from your panel to the installation site (usually the garage or driveway)
• Any necessary upgrades, like a dedicated circuit or sub-panel

This assessment helps prevent overloads and ensures your setup meets local safety codes.

Choose the Right Charger for Your Needs

There are a few types of EV chargers, and the right one depends on your driving habits and car model. Level 1 chargers plug into a standard outlet but are very slow. Level 2 chargers, which require professional installation, are much faster and more practical for daily use.

During your consultation, your technician can help you compare:

• Charging speed and compatibility with your vehicle
• Indoor vs. outdoor installation options
• Smart features like timers and energy usage tracking

With expert guidance, you’ll get the charger that fits your life, not just your car.

The Installation Process

Once everything’s chosen and planned, the actual installation can usually be completed in a day. Your Idaho Falls ID electrician will handle everything from mounting the charger to wiring it into your panel. The process may also include:

• Permitting and city inspections, if required
• Installing a dedicated circuit to prevent overloading
• Ensuring proper grounding and weatherproofing (especially outdoors)

It’s not just about getting the power flowing; it’s about making sure your investment is safe and reliable long-term.

Keep Safety and Longevity in Mind

A professional installation goes far beyond just plugging something in. When done correctly, your system will last for years and reduce the risk of fires, outages, or car damage.

To protect your charger and your vehicle, professionals recommend:

• Using surge protection to shield your car’s battery from power spikes
• Scheduling maintenance checks on your panel and wiring over time
• Installing the charger close to where you park to limit cable stress

With these small decisions, you can enjoy convenient home charging without worry.

Conclusion

Installing an EV charger at home is one of the best upgrades you can make for your electric vehicle—but only if it’s done right. With expert planning, safe installation, and the right equipment, you’ll be set for years of smooth, fast charging.

Make charging at home safe and simple—call Platinum Electric at (208) 403-3040 to schedule your EV charger installation with a trusted and professional electrician.

We also provide services to Blackfoot, Collins, Chubbuck, Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rexburg, Jackson, Island Park, Shelley, Iona, and all surrounding areas.

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No one expects an electrical emergency, but when it happens, it can feel overwhelming. One moment everything’s fine, and the next, you’re dealing with a strange smell, flickering lights, or total darkness. In situations like these, acting quickly and safely is essential. That’s why we want every Idaho Falls homeowner to know exactly what to do when electrical trouble strikes.

At Platinum Electric, we’ve responded to all kinds of urgent electrical problems. Based on years of experience, here’s our simple, step-by-step guide to help you stay safe and handle things the right way.

How to Recognize an Electrical Emergency

Not every electrical issue is an emergency, but some signs mean you shouldn’t wait to call for help. These warning signals should never be ignored:

• A burning or melted plastic smell near outlets
• Buzzing or sizzling sounds from switches or walls
• Breakers that trip repeatedly for no clear reason

Other red flags include visible sparks, smoke, or sudden loss of power to parts of your home. If you notice any of these, it’s time to stop what you’re doing and take the next steps.

Stay Safe with These First Moves

In the moment, it’s easy to panic, but staying calm helps you make safer choices. Begin by assessing the situation from a distance. If it’s safe to do so, unplug nearby electronics and head to your breaker panel.

Turning off the main breaker can quickly shut down the entire system and reduce danger. If you see flames or heavy smoke, call 911 immediately. And whatever you do, never use water on electrical fires. It only makes things worse.

Once the immediate danger is under control, your next call should be to a licensed Idaho Falls ID electrician. Professionals like us are trained to handle these situations with care and precision.

Why You Need a Licensed Electrician

Electrical systems are complex, and they can be dangerous when handled incorrectly. That’s why working with a licensed, local electrician isn’t just smart—it’s essential. At Platinum Electric, we don’t just stop the issue—we find the root cause and prevent it from happening again.

When you hire a licensed professional in Idaho Falls, you get peace of mind knowing we follow local codes, safety regulations, and use high-quality tools and materials every step of the way.

Tips to Prevent Future Emergencies

After an emergency, most homeowners wonder how to stop it from happening again. That’s a smart question—and it often starts with a home inspection.

• Schedule annual safety checks to catch hidden problems
• Avoid overloading outlets or using too many extension cords
• Upgrade old wiring or outdated panels when recommended

Prevention saves time, money, and stress—and helps protect your home and family.

Conclusion

Electrical emergencies are serious, but with the right knowledge and quick action, you can stay safe and minimize damage. Just remember: you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Call Platinum Electric at (208) 403-3040 when emergencies strike. As your trusted electrician, we’re here to respond fast and fix it right, every single time.

We also provide services to Blackfoot, Collins, Chubbuck, Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rexburg, Jackson, Island Park, Shelley, Iona, and all surrounding areas.…