Get matched with top electricians in Saint Matthews, SC

A low-voltage landscape lighting system using 15 to 20 LED lights for six hours a night will average about $5 to $10 a month in electricity costs. This is considered affordable lighting for many homeowners. Most modern landscape lights use LED bulbs, but some older styles may use halogen or incandescent bulbs, which can cost up to five times more than LEDs in electrical costs.

To check if doorbell wires are live, use a non-contact voltage tester. Hold the tester near the wires; if it lights up or beeps, the wires are live. Always ensure the power is off at the breaker box before handling any wiring. If you don't have a voltage tester, consider getting one or consulting a professional to ensure safety.

Common warning signs of an overloaded electrical panel or meter box include frequent circuit breaker tripping, flickering or dimming lights, scorch or burn marks, and a burning scent coming from the panel. A circuit breaker trips as a protective measure to prevent overheating and potential fires. If you observe any of these signs, turn off the affected circuit breaker and move some devices to a different circuit. If the problem persists after turning the breaker back on, you should contact a professional electrician to resolve the issue.

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.