frequently asked questions

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General questions

  • Are you licensed and insured?

    Yes. Guiding Light Electric, Inc. is a licensed and insured electrical contractor serving New York City. Our electricians are trained to perform work according to NEC and NYC Electrical Code standards. We provide documentation of insurance and licenses on request.


  • What areas do you serve?

    Our base is at 125-18 101st Avenue, New York, NY 11419. We serve Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, the Bronx, and surrounding areas within New York City. For urgent calls, we respond based on nearest available technician.

  • How do I get a quote?

    Call (718) 847-5700 to schedule a site assessment. After an on-site review, we provide a written estimate detailing labor, materials, timelines, and permit requirements.

  • Do you offer emergency services?

    Yes. We provide emergency electrical repair and stabilization. For immediate hazards, call (718) 847-5700 and describe the issue—our dispatcher prioritizes emergency responses.

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permits, codes, & inspections

  • Do you pull electrical permits?

    Yes. We handle permit filing, inspection scheduling, and ensure work is completed to code. This includes residential and commercial permits where required by NYC.

  • Will my new electrical work pass inspection?

    We design and perform work to meet NEC and NYC standards and coordinate with local inspectors. While inspectors may require adjustments, our experience and planning help minimize rework.

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sERVICE RELATED QUESTIONS

  • What is involved in a service panel upgrade?

    Service upgrades involve assessing your current load, determining required capacity (e.g., 200A), installing a new meter base and main panel, transferring circuits, and coordinating with the utility for any necessary service changes. We provide permit support and schedule inspections.

  • How can I reduce my electrical bill?

    Consider LED lighting retrofits, occupancy sensors, programmable lighting controls, and efficient equipment upgrades. Load management and proper maintenance can also reduce power consumption and improve efficiency.

  • What is an AFCI or GFCI and do I need them?

    AFCI (Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter) protects against fires caused by arcing faults and is required in many living areas. GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter) protects against shock hazards in wet locations such as bathrooms and kitchens. Building codes require these in specific locations; we install them where required.

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installation & equip,emt

  • Can you install EV chargers?

    Yes. We install Level 2 chargers for homes, condos, and commercial sites. We perform load analysis, handle panel work, and file permits. Call us at (718) 847-5700 for a site evaluation.

  • Do you install generators?

    Yes. We size, install, and commission standby generators and automatic transfer switches. We also coordinate with fuel providers and set up maintenance plans.

  • Can you integrate home automation and lighting controls?

    Yes. We install lighting control systems, smart switches, and integrate lighting with home automation platforms to optimize comfort and energy use.

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repair & maintenance

  • How do I know if I need rewiring?

    Signs include frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, lack of grounding, outdated knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring, burning smells, or visible deterioration of insulation. We provide assessments and repair recommendations.

  • Do you provide maintenance plans?

    Yes. We offer preventative maintenance services for commercial and residential clients, including routine inspections, thermal imaging, tightening connections, and ensuring protective devices function correctly.

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safety & emergencies

  • What should I do during an electrical emergency?

    If you smell burning, see sparks, or find exposed wiring, evacuate the area, call 911 if there is a fire risk, and call Guiding Light Electric at (718) 847-5700 for emergency dispatch. Do not touch exposed wiring. If safe and necessary, shut off power at the main breaker.

  • How to prevent electrical fires?

    Regular inspections, replacing aging wiring, avoiding overloading circuits, installing AFCI/GFCI where needed, using surge protection, and hiring licensed electricians for work are key prevention steps.

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commercial & multi - unit

  • Do you work with building managers and property owners?

    Yes. We coordinate scheduling, tenant notifications, and work sequencing for minimal disruption. We also provide documentation for building records and capital planning.

  • Can you install multiple EV chargers for a commercial property?

    Yes. We perform site planning, design distribution, implement energy management, and install networked chargers with billing options if desired.

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billing & warranties

  • What payment methods do you accept?

    We accept major credit cards, checks, and bank transfers. Payment terms vary by project; we provide options in the estimate.

  • Do you provide warranties?

    We stand behind our workmanship and offer warranties on labor. Specific equipment warranties vary by manufacturer. Warranty details are provided in your project contract.

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environmental & efficiency

  • Do you recommend LED retrofits?

    Yes. LED retrofits improve longevity, light quality, and energy consumption. We design lighting upgrades with appropriate color temperature and controls for optimal results.

  • Can you work with solar or battery storage systems?

    We coordinate with solar and storage providers and can install necessary interconnection wiring and safety devices to integrate renewable energy solutions.

still have questions?

Our knowledgeable staff will assist you with assessments, quotes, and scheduling.