Frequently Asked Questions

New construction electrical involves installing complete systems in unfinished buildings, while remodel work upgrades or reconfigures existing wiring in occupied spaces. Remodels require minimizing disruption and working around finished walls. At SMB Electric LLC, we plan remodel projects to keep your home functional throughout the process.

Schedule your electrician during the early planning phase, ideally before framing begins. This allows for proper load calculations, panel planning, and coordinating lighting layouts with your builder. Early involvement ensures your electrical system meets Idaho codes and future-proofs your home for additions or upgrades.

Generators provide critical backup power during winter outages common in North Idaho. Standby generators start automatically when power fails, while proper placement and transfer systems ensure safe operation in cold weather. At SMB Electric LLC, we design installations for reliable winter performance across Sandpoint and surrounding areas.

Cost depends on the extent of rewiring needed, panel capacity, accessibility behind walls, and code compliance requirements. Older North Idaho homes often need updated panels and circuits to handle modern electrical loads. A remodel walkthrough helps identify specific needs and potential challenges before work begins.

Yes, when properly installed with weather-rated fixtures and correct wiring methods. Outdoor lighting systems designed for North Idaho climates use durable materials that resist moisture, snow, and temperature fluctuations. At SMB Electric LLC, we install exterior lighting built for long-term visibility and safety in regional conditions.

Multi-unit electrical includes individual metering for each unit, shared common-area lighting, properly sized panels, and coordinated inspections. The system must support scalability and meet commercial code requirements. At SMB Electric LLC, we work with developers to design efficient, compliant systems for duplexes, apartments, and residential developments.

We schedule work during off-hours when possible, phase upgrades to maintain operational areas, and communicate progress throughout the project. Proper planning keeps essential circuits active while reconfiguring panels, lighting, or equipment circuits. Our goal is keeping your business functional during electrical improvements.

Older panels often lack capacity for modern appliances, electronics, and heating systems. Upgrading prevents overloads, improves safety, and supports additions or EV chargers. Many older North Idaho homes were built before current electrical demands, making panel upgrades essential for renovations or expanded circuits.

Using non-weather-rated outlets or underestimating circuit needs for high-draw appliances like grills and refrigerators. Outdoor kitchens require properly protected circuits designed for seasonal use and moisture exposure. At SMB Electric LLC, we install safe, code-compliant wiring for lake homes and recreational properties throughout the region.

Timeline depends on project size, but residential new builds typically involve multiple site visits coordinated with framing, insulation, and finish stages. Commercial projects vary based on complexity and inspection schedules. At SMB Electric LLC, we coordinate closely with builders to maintain efficient timelines across North Idaho construction projects.

Master Electricians have advanced training, extensive experience, and deep code knowledge beyond standard licensing. They handle complex load calculations, troubleshoot challenging installations, and ensure long-term system reliability. At SMB Electric LLC, our Master Electrician brings over 20 years of industry experience to every project.

Yes, storage facilities require durable lighting for security, proper power distribution for access control systems, and low-maintenance designs for outdoor or rural locations. Electrical layouts must support phased construction and future expansions. At SMB Electric LLC, we design systems built for reliability in highway-adjacent and rural North Idaho sites.