Installation and Replacement Services
Electrical Installation and Replacement
Even when everything seems fine with your home’s electrical systems, problems can be present that could put you and your family’s safety at risk.
The good news is Mainstream® knows what to look for and has simple solutions to any problem.
If you notice any of the following, an electrical problem may be present and it’s time to call the professionals at Mainstream® for electrical replacement services:
- Light Switches Not Working Properly
- Lights are Too Bright or Too Dim
- Higher Electricity Bills
The Mainstream Difference
Why Spokane Homeowners Choose Mainstream
Welcome to Mainstream® – your one-stop solution for all your electrical, heating, cooling, and plumbing needs. Here’s why you should trust us with your home services:
Flexible Scheduling
We respect your time and prioritize efficient communication. We ensure minimal wait times for our technicians, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your home. Expect a call before our technician arrives, giving you the flexibility to plan your day accordingly.
Transparent Pricing
No surprises, no hidden costs. Our upfront pricing provides competitive quotes tailored to your specific service requirements. You'll receive a detailed breakdown of the work involved, ensuring transparency and total peace of mind.
Expert Technicians
Our friendly, skilled technicians are experts in electrical, heating, cooling, and plumbing services. With state-of-the-art tools and expertise, we guarantee precise, code-compliant work. Your home will be left spotless, reflecting our commitment to cleanliness and professionalism.
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Spokane Service Area
Greater Spokane & Beyond
We proudly service the following cities and neighborhoods in Spokane & Northern Idaho:
- Nine Mile Falls
- Otis Orchards
- Post Falls
- Rathdrum
- Spokane
- Spokane Valley
- Veradale
- Worley
- Wood Lake
ELECTRICAL SERVICES
All Electric Services
We can handle all your electrical needs with ease and efficiency. Here are just some of our electrical services. View all of our electric services available in Spokane and Northern Idaho.
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ELECTRICIAN SERVICES
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs that my mobile home’s electrical system is outdated or unsafe?
Ensuring the electrical system in your mobile home is up to date and safe is crucial for protecting your home and loved ones from potential hazards. At Mainstream, we’re dedicated to helping you identify and address any electrical issues that may arise in your mobile home. Here are some signs that your mobile home’s electrical system may be outdated or unsafe, along with how we can assist:
- Flickering Lights: This common issue can be caused by a variety of factors, from loose bulbs to old wiring or even fluctuating voltage. If tightening the bulb doesn’t solve the problem, it may be time to consult a professional.
- Circuit Overload: Frequent tripping of circuit breakers indicates an overloaded circuit, a common issue in mobile homes due to fewer power outlets and increasing load demands. Practicing energy conservation and unplugging devices when not in use can help, but if overloads continue, it’s essential to seek professional advice.
- Power Surges: Caused by external factors like lightning or internal issues like faulty wiring, power surges can damage appliances and electrical components. Using surge protectors can help, but addressing the root cause is crucial for long-term safety.
- Incorrect Bulb Wattage: Using bulbs with higher wattage than recommended can overheat fixtures and pose a fire risk. Always check the recommended wattage for your lighting fixtures to prevent this issue.
- Exposed Wires: Bare or exposed wires are dangerous and should never be ignored. If you encounter exposed wiring, it’s time to call in the experts.
- Powerless Outlets: Outlets that don’t work can sometimes be fixed by resetting your breakers. However, if this doesn’t restore power, the problem may be more serious.
Your Safety is Our Priority
At Mainstream, we understand that dealing with electrical issues in your mobile home can be daunting. That’s why we emphasize the importance of safety and recommend consulting with our professionals for any concerns. Our team is equipped with the expertise to handle the unique challenges of mobile home electrical systems, ensuring that your home is safe, efficient, and up to code.
Whether you’re experiencing one of these common issues or have other electrical concerns, Mainstream is here to provide the support and services you need. Don’t hesitate to protect your home and family by reaching out to us for expert electrical assistance tailored to the specific needs of your mobile home.
What kind of lighting can Mainstream install?
At Mainstream, we specialize in a comprehensive range of lighting solutions designed to enhance both the beauty and functionality of your home. As your expert electricians in the Spokane area, our expertise spans across various types of lighting installations, ensuring your home shines in its best light, both inside and out. Here’s a glimpse of what we can do for you:
- Ceiling Lights: Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated chandelier to elevate your dining room, energy-efficient LED recessed lighting for your kitchen, or a statement pendant light for your entryway, we have the skills and expertise to bring new life into any room of your home.
- Task Lighting: Perfect for areas like the kitchen, home office, or bathroom, where focused lighting is essential. We can install under-cabinet lights, vanity lights, and adjustable desk lamps that combine functionality with style.
- Ambient Lighting: Transform your living spaces into welcoming areas with ambient lighting options. From flush mounts to wall sconces, we create the perfect mood for your home’s interior.
Outdoor Lighting Solutions:
- Landscape Lighting: Illuminate your property’s beauty at night and enhance safety with strategically placed landscape lighting. Pathway lights, spotlights, and floodlights can highlight your garden’s features and improve visibility.
- Holiday Lighting: Get into the festive spirit without the hassle. Our holiday lighting services include design consultation, installation, maintenance, and takedown, ensuring your home is the highlight of the neighborhood.
- Security Lighting: Protect your home with powerful motion-sensor floodlights and other security lighting options. Our installations provide peace of mind by deterring unwanted visitors and illuminating dark areas around your property.
Specialty Lighting:
- Hot Tub & Pool Lighting: Enhance your outdoor relaxation areas with ambient lighting. We can install safe, waterproof lighting to create the perfect ambiance for your hot tub or pool.
- Smart Home Lighting: Step into the future with smart lighting solutions that offer convenience and efficiency. Control your home’s lighting from anywhere with your smartphone or voice commands.
Mainstream is dedicated to delivering the highest quality electrical upgrades and installations in Spokane. From the practical to the purely aesthetic, our skilled team is ready to assist with all your lighting needs, ensuring your home is both beautiful and brilliantly lit. Contact us today to discuss your lighting project and let us help you illuminate your home in ways you’ve never imagined.
Can my current electrical system support my home renovation/addition plans?
Embarking on a home renovation or addition is an exciting venture that can significantly enhance your living space and property value. However, it’s crucial to consider the capability of your current electrical system to support these new demands. At Mainstream, your safety and the efficiency of your home’s electrical infrastructure are our top priorities. Here’s why an electrical upgrade might be essential for your renovation project:
- Capacity for Expansion: Modern lifestyles and appliances necessitate approximately 200 amps for a home’s electrical demand. Yet, many older homes are equipped with electrical systems designed for much lower capacities — some as low as 40 amps. As you plan your home addition or renovation, it’s essential to assess whether your existing electrical panel can handle the increased power requirements or if an upgrade is necessary.
- Panel Limitations: If your current electrical panel is maxed out with no room for additional circuits, you may need to consider installing a larger panel or an additional one to accommodate your renovation plans. While updating your electrical panel represents an additional expense, it’s a critical investment in the safety and functionality of your home. Cutting corners on electrical work can lead to significant risks.
- Safety and Code Compliance: Especially in older homes, your electrical system may not only be underpowered for today’s needs but also potentially not up to current building codes. Upgrading your electrical system ensures that your home can safely handle the increased demand from new appliances, additional outlets, and more, keeping your home safe, efficient, and compliant with local regulations.
- Mainstream’s Expertise: With years of experience in electrical, heating, cooling, and plumbing services in the Spokane area, Mainstream is your go-to expert for ensuring your home renovation or addition project is supported by a robust and code-compliant electrical system. Our team of certified professionals is ready to assess your needs and provide solutions tailored to ensure your project’s success.
Don’t let outdated electrical systems hold back your renovation plans. Contact Mainstream today to ensure your home is prepared to meet the demands of your exciting new project. Our commitment to quality, safety, and efficiency makes us the trusted choice for homeowners looking to enhance their living spaces. Let us help you navigate the complexities of electrical upgrades with ease and confidence.
How do I know if my house is properly grounded?
Grounding is not just a technical detail in your home’s electrical system; it’s a vital safety feature that creates a safe path for excess electricity to be diverted into the earth. This significantly reduces the risks associated with electrical shock and fire. In the Spokane area, our team at Mainstream has been committed to enhancing the safety and efficiency of residential electrical systems since 2000. With thousands of electrical repairs completed successfully and safely, our experience speaks for itself. We’ve earned the trust of countless homeowners through our dedication to quality and safety.
Our certified professionals have the knowledge and expertise to address any concerns you might have about your home’s grounding status or other electrical issues. We understand the importance of grounding in protecting your home and family, as well as in preserving the longevity and performance of your appliances and electronic devices.
Don’t compromise on safety. Let us provide you with the peace of mind that comes from knowing your home is properly grounded and your electrical system is in top condition. Contact us today to schedule an electrical safety assessment. With Mainstream, you’re choosing a partner with a proven track record of reliability and trust in the Spokane community. Ensure your home is as safe and efficient as it can be with our expert guidance and solutions.
My house is pretty old, and so is the wiring, how do I know if it needs to be replaced?
Owning a heritage-style home in the Spokane area brings with it the charm of historical architecture but also the responsibility of maintaining its integrity, especially when it comes to electrical systems. Many older homes, particularly those built before 1950, feature outdated electrical wiring types like aluminum, copper, or the even older knob and tube wiring. While these systems were innovative in their time, they now pose safety risks and efficiency problems in the modern era.
Mainstream specializes in updating and replacing outdated electrical systems in historic homes. Understanding the importance of preserving the charm of your heritage home while ensuring its safety and functionality, we offer comprehensive electrical solutions tailored to meet modern standards without compromising the home’s historical value.
For homeowners in Spokane with vintage properties, upgrading your electrical wiring is not just a matter of convenience—it’s a crucial step toward safeguarding your home and loved ones. Our team is dedicated to providing expert electrical services, ensuring your home meets current electrical codes and standards. If your home still relies on outdated electrical systems, we encourage you to reach out for a consultation. Let us help you preserve the beauty of your heritage home while making it safe, efficient, and ready to meet the demands of modern living.
What does an electrician do?
An electrician is a trained professional who specializes in the installation, maintenance, and repair of various electrical systems. Here’s a breakdown of their key roles:
- Installation: Electricians handle the setup of new electrical components and systems, ensuring that everything from the wiring to the outlets is properly installed for safe and efficient operation.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and reliability of electrical systems. Electricians perform routine checks and servicing to keep everything running smoothly.
- Repairs: When electrical issues arise, electricians are the troubleshooters who diagnose and fix problems, ensuring that your electrical systems are functioning correctly and safely.
- Collaboration in Construction: For new builds or renovations, electricians collaborate with architects and engineers from the planning stage to ensure that the electrical design is sound, efficient, and up to code.
- Inspections: They also conduct thorough inspections of electrical systems, especially in older buildings, to ensure they meet the current safety standards and regulations.
Difference Between Electrical Contractors and Electricians
While they may perform similar tasks, electrical contractors often take on larger-scale projects. They manage teams of electricians, handle project management, and work on commercial or industrial projects. For smaller home repairs, you’d usually hire an electrician rather than an electrical contractor.
- Services Offered by Electrical Contractors: These professionals can design electrical systems, oversee their installation, provide maintenance to ensure efficiency, and conduct repairs. They’re especially useful for larger and more complex projects where detailed planning and coordination are necessary.
In short, electricians are the skilled workers who make sure that all things electrical in your home or business are working as they should, from the lights overhead to the wiring hidden behind the walls.
Why should I choose Mainstream for my electrical installation or upgrade?
Choosing Mainstream for your electrical repairs means opting for top-notch service, expertise, and reliability. Here’s why we stand out:
Transparent Pricing: Before we start any work, we provide you with a clear quote. With Mainstream, there are no surprises; you pay what you’re quoted, ensuring your decisions are informed and your budget is respected.
Highly Recommended Experts: Our technicians aren’t just skilled and knowledgeable; they come highly recommended by your neighbors. We’ve built a reputation for excellence in the Spokane area, and we have the credentials to back it up—every technician is licensed and certified.
Efficient On-the-Spot Service: We value your time. That’s why our technicians arrive ready to tackle most issues immediately, equipped with the right tools and a stock of parts to handle most repairs without delay.
Professionalism You Can Trust: When a Mainstream technician visits your home, they don’t just bring expertise; they bring a commitment to quality and the best advice for your specific needs. We only recommend services that are necessary, and we stand firmly behind our work.
Convenience at Its Best: Your schedule is important, which is why we offer flexible scheduling options, including same-day service. Our goal is to ensure your electrical systems are functioning perfectly with as little disruption to your day as possible.
When it comes to electrical repairs, Mainstream isn’t just a service provider—we’re your trusted partner, dedicated to ensuring your home is safe, efficient, and comfortable. Schedule your service now and experience the Mainstream difference.
What does an electrician install?
Electricians are the skilled professionals you call on for a wide array of installations related to your home’s electrical systems. Here’s what they can install:
- Wiring for Light Fixtures & Switches: They ensure that all your lighting is powered correctly and safely.
- Circuit Breaker Connections: Any device or appliance that needs integration with your home’s electrical panel is within their expertise.
- Panels & Surge Protection: To safeguard your home from electrical surges, electricians can install new panels and surge protectors.
- Ceiling Fans: For better air circulation and comfort, electricians can install a variety of ceiling fans.
- Outlets, Switches, & Dimmers: They can update your home with the latest in outlet and switch technology, including dimmers for mood lighting.
- Smoke & CO Detectors: To keep your home safe, electricians install these crucial safety devices.
- Lighting: Whether it’s indoor ambiance or outdoor security, electricians can light up your space exactly how you want it.
- Smart Home Devices: From smart thermostats to switches that you can control from your phone, electricians make your home smarter.
- EV Charging Stations: For the electric vehicle owner, electricians can install personal charging stations right at home.
- Hot Tubs & Pools: They can wire your outdoor relaxation areas for safety and convenience.
- Whole Home Generators: For uninterrupted power, electricians can install generators that kick in when the grid goes down.
- GFCI Interrupters: These are critical for preventing shocks in wet areas of your home, and electricians are trained to install them properly.
Electricians like those at Mainstream have the tools, training, and expertise to handle all these installations and more, ensuring that every job is done safely and to code.
How much does electrical installation or upgrades cost?
The cost of fixing your home’s electrical issues depends a lot on what the problem is. Sometimes the fix could be fast and easy, while other times it could take more time and require new parts.
No matter what is wrong with your home’s electrical system, ask an expert at Mainstream for fast answers & reliable service. Trained technicians will come to your house to give you an upfront, transparent diagnostic report at a competitive cost.
How much does it cost to install a GFCI outlet?
Professionally installed GFCI outlets will cost anywhere from $140 to $250. The national average for GFCI outlet material costs is $19.71, while the national average for labor and materials is around $150 per hour.
Average “Do-It-Yourself” Cost: $18 – $50 per GFCI outlet
Average Contractor-Installed Cost: $140 – $250 per GFCI outlet
These prices are based on national averages for GFCI outlet installation and material costs. For an accurate quote on your unique GFCI installation or repair project, contact Mainstream Electric. The cost of GFCI outlet installation may vary depending on the complexity of the job, the number of outlets needed and the location of the installation.
I don’t have a garage on my house. Is it safe to install a plug or power connector on the outside of my house?
Installing an outlet or EV charging equipment on the exterior of your house is completely safe. Almost all EV power connectors are NEMA 3R rated. This means that they can withstand wind, rain, snow, and ice without failing. They are not submersible, however, so installing a power connector or EV outlet in a place that can be flooded is not advisable.
Can I install an Electric Car Charger or EVSE myself?
Never try to install an EVSE (electric vehicle supply equipment) by yourself. As with any other electrical work you need to have done at your home or office, you should always rely on your licensed electrician to do the work properly, safely and up to current code. Your electrician will need to check the wiring and establish that you have the proper circuitry installed to ensure safe and effective operation of the electric car charger. Although this may seem more expensive up front, the electric vehicle charging outlet installation service provided by Mainstream Electric will keep you and your home and electric vehicle safe and prevent more expensive problems down the line. In fact, your electric car warranty, and the EV charger warranty may be voided if the EVSE is not properly installed by a licensed electrician in the first place, so don’t risk your safety over this!
