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If you have a lamp that flickers or doesn’t stay on, it’s a sign that it’s time to rewire it. Additionally, it’s important to rewire antique lamps so they’re safe to continue using without the risk of an electrical fire. If the plug on your lamp is more than 15 years old or you notice poor performance like flickering, you should hire a lamp repair service to rewire it. If you’re upgrading the bulbs in an antique lamp from incandescent to LED or CFL bulbs, rewire it so it’s compatible with the modern bulbs.

Yes, electricians must be licensed, certified, and in most cases, insured. Licensing requirements vary by state and local municipality, but most U.S. municipalities require electricians to hold an electrical contractor’s license. It's always a good practice to confirm requirements with your local municipality. Even if licensing is not required in your area, hiring a licensed and experienced electrician often leads to a better end result.

A license is a legal requirement to operate a business and is necessary for pulling project permits. Certifications, on the other hand, are typically voluntary and demonstrate a certain level of expertise. In some cases, a certified electrician may send an apprentice or journeyman to perform the work, but they must operate under a primary electrician who holds the proper license.

Before hiring, you should verify the electrician's license, insurance coverage, and any third-party certifications. You can use Angi’s contractor licensing search to confirm a pro's license status. Additionally, businesses with the “Angi Approved” badge on our platform meet strict criteria, including having the required state and local licenses, passing a background check, and maintaining a high average rating.

The color of your cable will help you to identify its function. In the U.S., the National Electrical Code (NEC) designates the color code for electrical cables. “Hot” cables are black, red, and blue. In cases of higher voltage lines, orange might also be used to indicate a hot cable. White or gray indicates a neutral, and green or green with a yellow stripe indicates a ground.

Basic smart light switches are available for as little as $20. If you can install them yourself, it’s a home upgrade that won’t break the bank. Many homeowners view them as a worthwhile investment for the additional convenience and security they can offer. However, they are a little more tricky to install than standard light switches, so if you don’t have the electrical knowledge to do a DIY job, unless you need a lighting upgrade, remember these are a nice-to-have rather than a necessary purchase.