The Smiley Electric blog
Real project stories and straight-answer electrical guides from our Portland-metro crews — the full archive, back to 2022.
2026
October 19, 2026
Buying or Selling an Older Portland Home? What the Electrical Inspection Will FlagWhat a home inspector usually flags on an older Portland house's electrical, which items can hold up a sale, and how to get them priced and fixed in time.
October 12, 2026
Space Heaters on Portland's Old Circuits: Use Them Without Tripping Breakers (or Worse)A space heater is the heaviest thing most people plug into a wall. How to run one in an older Portland home without tripping breakers or overheating an outlet.
October 5, 2026
Why Your Finished Basement or ADU Might Not Be Legal, ElectricallyA finished basement or ADU wired without a permit was never inspected. How Portland homeowners can tell, what usually turns up, and how to fix it.
September 28, 2026
EV Charging at Home Through a Portland Winter: Cold, Rain, and Why Level 2 WinsCold weather slows EV charging and eats range, so Portland winters expose a slow home setup. Why Level 2 keeps up, and what to check before the rain.
September 21, 2026
What Older Portland Houses Hide in Their Walls: Knob-and-Tube, Aluminum, and Fuse BoxesPre-1975 Portland homes often hide knob-and-tube, aluminum branch wiring, or a fuse box. How to spot each one, why insurers ask, and what to do next.
September 16, 2026
My Insurance Company Says I Need to Replace My Electrical Panel — What Do I Do?Has your homeowners insurance company requested an electrical panel replacement? Learn what to check, what information to provide an electrician, and how to plan the next steps before your policy deadline.
September 11, 2026
Electrical Upgrades & Circuit Installation in Milwaukie, OregonSmiley Electric completed electrical upgrades in Milwaukie, OR: a new range circuit and outlet, five outlet replacements, and GFCI installation.
September 10, 2026
50-Amp Circuit & Fuse Replacement in Beaverton, OregonSmiley Electric installed a new 50-amp circuit and replaced three 125A fuses in Beaverton, OR, with #8 wire, MC cable, a new junction box, and outlet.
September 7, 2026
Heat Pumps Are Taking Over Portland: What That Means for Your Electrical PanelAdding a heat pump in Portland? What it asks of your panel, why a load calculation decides it, panel upgrade vs service upgrade, and where the incentives land.
September 5, 2026
Dedicated Refrigerator Circuit Installation in Portland, OregonSmiley Electric installed a dedicated 120V, 15/20-amp refrigerator circuit in Portland, OR, including the breaker, wiring, outlet, and grounding.
September 3, 2026
Portland, OR Project: Subpanel Installation & Overhead Electrical Service WorkSubpanel and overhead service installation in Portland, OR. New panel, grounding, mast, weatherhead, and service connections.
August 31, 2026
When the Power Goes Out in Portland: What to Do in the First 10 MinutesPower out in Portland? A ten-minute triage: whether it is the grid or your panel, what to unplug, generator safety, and when to call an electrician.
August 25, 2026
A Fall Electrical Checklist for Portland HomesSeven things Portland homeowners should check before storm season: panel warning signs, tripping breakers, GFCIs, surge protection, backup power, and headroom for winter loads.
May 22, 2026
Rooftop Unit Electrical Corrections at Lowe’s in Wood Village, OregonRooftop unit electrical corrections in Wood Village, OR for improved safety, reliability, and NEC code compliance.
May 8, 2026
Knob & Tube Wiring Removal with New Panel, Outlet & Light Fixture Installation in Portland, OregonKnob and tube removal in Portland, OR with new panel, outlets, and lighting installation for improved safety and modern electrical capacity.
May 1, 2026
20-Amp Circuit Installation with Exterior Conduit Run in Beaverton, Oregon20-amp circuit installation in Beaverton, OR with exterior conduit. Safe, code-compliant electrical upgrade for reliable power.
April 30, 2026
Walk-In Freezer Wiring in Portland, Oregon: Commercial Electrical Installation for Reliable CoolingWalk-in freezer wiring in Portland, OR. Commercial electrical installation for safe, reliable refrigeration systems.
April 24, 2026
Water Heater Circuit Extension in Mulino, Oregon: Coordinated Electrical UpgradeWater heater circuit extension in Mulino, OR. Safe, code-compliant electrical work coordinated with plumbing installation.
April 22, 2026
Closet Outlet Installation in Portland, Oregon: Adding Safe & Convenient PowerCloset outlet installation in Portland, OR. Add safe, code-compliant power for convenience and functionality.
April 17, 2026
Service Mast & Meter Base Repair in Portland, Oregon: Restoring Safe Electrical ServiceService mast and meter base repair in Portland, OR. Restore safe electrical service and meet code requirements.
April 16, 2026
200 Amp Meter Main Combo Installation & Upgrade in Portland, Oregon200 amp meter main combo installation in Portland, OR. Upgrade your electrical service for safety, capacity, and code compliance.
April 15, 2026
Dishwasher Circuit Installation & GFCI Reconfiguration in Portland, OregonDishwasher circuit and GFCI outlet installation in Portland, OR. Improve safety, code compliance, and kitchen performance.
April 10, 2026
Service Mast Pipe Reconfiguration in Portland, Oregon: Meeting Utility Clearance & Code RequirementsService mast reconfiguration in Portland, OR. Upgrade to meet Pacific Power clearance and electrical code requirements.
April 9, 2026
Installing Two 20-Amp Circuits in Portland, Oregon: Reliable Power for Modern Electrical Needs20-amp circuit installation in Portland, OR. Safe, dedicated circuits for modern appliances and electrical upgrades.
April 8, 2026
Commercial Outlet Upgrade & GFCI Breaker Installation in Portland, OregonCommercial outlet upgrade in Portland, OR. 20-amp outlets and GFCI breakers installed for safety and code compliance.
April 3, 2026
Commercial Lighting Installation in Portland, Oregon: Improving Visibility & EfficiencyCommercial lighting installation in Portland, OR. Improve efficiency, safety, and visibility with professional electrical upgrades.
April 2, 2026
Temporary Electrical Service for a Trailer in Portland, OregonTemporary power setup for a trailer in Portland, OR. Safe, code-compliant electrical service installation by licensed electricians.
April 1, 2026
Light Fixture Replacement & Timer Switch Installation in Portland, OregonLight fixture replacement and timer switch installation in Portland. Improve efficiency, safety, and lighting control.
March 27, 2026
Fan & Light Combo Installation with Switch Relocation in Portland, OregonKitchen remodel electrical work in Portland. Learn how lighting and outlet installation improves safety, function, and efficiency.
March 26, 2026
Kitchen Remodel Electrical Work in Portland, Oregon: Lighting & Outlet Installation ProjectKitchen remodel electrical work in Portland. Learn how lighting and outlet installation improves safety, function, and efficiency.
March 25, 2026
Panel Change & Service Upgrade in Milwaukie, Oregon: Improving Power Capacity & SafetyPanel upgrade in Milwaukie, OR. Learn how a service upgrade improves safety, capacity, and reliability for modern homes.
March 20, 2026
Outdoor Lighting Repair & Upgrade in Portland, Oregon: Improving Safety & VisibilityOutdoor lighting repair and upgrade in Portland. Improve safety, visibility, and efficiency with professional electrical service.
March 19, 2026
Knob and Tube Wiring Removal in Portland, Oregon: Upgrading for Safety & Modern LivingA Portland knob and tube removal project: tracing old circuits, adding boxes for fixtures, working through lath and plaster and coordinating with drywall.
March 18, 2026
4D Studios – Portland, OR: Appliance Wiring & Lighting Upgrade ProjectSee how appliance wiring and lighting upgrades improved functionality and efficiency for a Portland commercial studio.
March 13, 2026
Panel Upgrade, Lighting Installation & Rewiring Project in Portland, OregonSee how a Portland home was upgraded with a new electrical panel, lighting installation, and rewiring for improved safety and capacity.
March 12, 2026
Commercial Electrical Installation for Club Pilates – Salem, OregonSee how Smiley Electric completed the full commercial electrical installation for a Club Pilates studio in Salem, Oregon.
March 6, 2026
Infrared Patio Heater Installation: Expanding Outdoor Comfort with Safe Electrical WiringSee how infrared patio heater installation improves outdoor comfort while ensuring safe electrical wiring and code compliance.
March 5, 2026
Water Heater Circuit Extension in Mulino, Oregon: Coordinating Electrical & Plumbing WorkWater heater circuit extension in Mulino, Oregon. Learn how electrical and plumbing coordination ensures safe installations.
March 4, 2026
Electrical Troubleshooting & Circuit Remediation in Lake Oswego: A Real Project BreakdownElectrical troubleshooting in Lake Oswego: See how circuit remediation and lighting upgrades improved safety and performance.
February 13, 2026
Emergency Electrical Hazard Remediation & NEC Compliance Upgrades in BasementsBasement electrical hazards? Learn how emergency remediation and NEC compliance upgrades improve safety and pass inspection.
February 11, 2026
Fan & Light Installation: Why Proper Wiring and Support Matter More Than You ThinkNeed fan or light installation? Learn why proper wiring, support, and code compliance matter for safety and long-term performance.
February 6, 2026
Outdoor Lighting Installation: Safety, Security, and Curb Appeal Done RightLooking to upgrade your outdoor lighting? Learn how professional installation improves safety, security, and curb appeal. Smiley Electric explains.
February 4, 2026
Temporary Electrical Service for Trailers: What Homeowners & Contractors Need to KnowNeed temporary power for a trailer? Learn when temporary electrical service is required, how it works, and why professional installation matters.
January 29, 2026
Why Upgrading to a Smart Electrical Panel Is the Future of Home PowerThinking about a smart electrical panel? Learn how smart panels improve safety, energy monitoring, and future-proof your home. Smiley Electric explains.
January 28, 2026
Why Upgrading to Smart Switches Is One of the Best Electrical Upgrades for Your HomeThinking about smart switches? Learn how smart lighting controls improve safety, efficiency, and convenience in modern homes. Smiley Electric explains.
January 27, 2026
Commercial Electrical Circuit Installation for Restaurant Equipment in Fairview & Portland, ORSee how Smiley Electric installed new commercial circuits for fryers and food warmers in Fairview and Portland, ensuring safe, code-compliant power.
January 22, 2026
Ceiling Fan Installation & Replacement: Comfort, Efficiency, and Safety Done RightThinking about a ceiling fan installation or replacement? Learn safety rules, costs, and why professional installation matters. Smiley Electric explains.
January 15, 2026
Solar Panel Installation in Oregon: What Homeowners & Businesses Need to KnowThinking about solar panel installation in Oregon? Learn costs, incentives, permits, and electrical requirements from Smiley Electric.
January 7, 2026
Commercial Walk-In Freezer Electrical Installation for TRS Cooling & HeatingSee how Smiley Electric wired a commercial walk-in freezer for TRS Cooling & Heating, from three-phase power to lighting and service outlets.
2025
December 30, 2025
Electrical Panel Upgrades, Replacement & New Panel Installation: What Homeowners Should KnowLearn when you need an electrical panel upgrade, replacement, or new panel installation. Expert guidance for Portland & Beaverton homeowners.
December 26, 2025
Electrical Troubleshooting & Lighting Circuit Remediation in Lake Oswego, ORSmiley Electric completed electrical troubleshooting, circuit remediation, and lighting upgrades for a Lake Oswego homeowner.
December 24, 2025
Knob-and-Tube Wiring Removal in Portland’s Elliott Neighborhood: What Homeowners Should KnowFollow Smiley Electric as we remove knob-and-tube wiring from a historic Elliott neighborhood home in Portland. Learn why it’s unsafe, how long removal takes, and what homeowners should expect.
December 23, 2025
Commercial LED Lighting Upgrade at Northwest ADHD Center: What We Found & FixedWatch how Smiley Electric upgraded outdated fluorescent lights to LED at the Northwest ADHD Center, diagnosed flickering fixtures, and evaluated exterior lighting improvements for safety and efficiency.
December 9, 2025
Why Your Home Needs Dedicated Circuits for Major AppliancesLearn why dedicated electrical circuits are essential for large appliances. Prevent overload, improve safety, and stay code-compliant with this homeowner-friendly guide.
December 4, 2025
7 Signs Your Portland Home May Need Rewiring (and When a Repair Is Enough)Seven wiring warning signs and how an electrician decides whether a Portland home needs a small repair, targeted rewiring or a whole-house rewire.
December 2, 2025
5 Essential Electrical Upgrades Every Portland Home Should Have (2025 Guide)Top 5 electrical upgrades every Portland home needs. Improve safety, efficiency & comfort with expert recommendations from Smiley Electric.
November 25, 2025
Small Electrical Jobs in Portland & Beaverton: No Job Too Small for Smiley ElectricSmiley Electric handles small electrical jobs in Portland & Beaverton — from outlets to ceiling fans, no job is too small.
November 21, 2025
Electrical Needs for Commercial Tenant Build-Outs in Portland & BeavertonExpert electrical services for commercial tenant build-outs in Portland & Beaverton. Safe, code-compliant, and ready for inspection.
November 19, 2025
How Soon Can Smiley Electric Get Your Electrical Project Done?See how quickly Smiley Electric can start your electrical project — from same-day emergencies to panel upgrades and rewiring timelines.
November 11, 2025
Meet Smiley Electric: Beaverton’s Trusted Team for Modern Electrical SolutionsSmiley Electric — Beaverton’s go-to electrician. Trusted team, strong reviews, modern solutions.
November 6, 2025
Top 10 Electrical Upgrades to Boost Your Home’s Value in PortlandBoost home value with smart electrical upgrades. Trusted Portland electricians share the top 10 upgrades for resale and comfort.
November 3, 2025
Lighting Controls & Daylight Harvesting for Tenant Build-OutsOptimize tenant build-outs with commercial lighting controls and daylight harvesting systems.
October 23, 2025
Powering Progress: Commercial EV Charging & Fleet Solutions for Oregon BusinessesOregon businesses: Get custom commercial EV charging & fleet solutions. Maximize state rebates & simplify permitting with Smiley Electric.
October 21, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Rewire a Bathroom in Portland & Beaverton?Rewire your bathroom safely in Portland & Beaverton. See average costs, what’s included, and why pros matter.
October 13, 2025
Whole-Home Surge Protection in Portland: What It Does, What It Can't and When It's Worth ItWhat a whole-home surge protector does and can't do, how it works with plug-in protectors, and what affects the installation quote for a Portland home.
October 10, 2025
Solar Battery Integration & EP Cube Systems in Oregon | Smiley Electric, Inc.Power your home smarter with EP Cube solar battery integration from Smiley Electric, Oregon’s trusted Energy Trust partner.
October 9, 2025
Small Electrical Jobs You Should Never Ignore (Beaverton & Portland Homeowners Guide)When it comes to electrical work, even the smallest jobs can make a big difference in keeping your home safe and efficient. Many homeowners in Beaverton
August 13, 2025
Home Electrical Safety & Preventative Maintenance TipsYour home’s electrical system works hard behind the scenes – powering everything from your fridge to your favorite streaming device. But like any
August 7, 2025
How to Choose the Right Electrician in the Portland Metro AreaWhether you’re remodeling your kitchen, installing outdoor lighting, or upgrading your panel, choosing the right electrician is critical. The Portland
August 5, 2025
Top 10 Signs You Need an Electrician in Hillsboro, OregonElectrical problems can pose serious risks to your safety and property. Often, small issues are overlooked until they escalate into major hazards. If
August 1, 2025
Why Price Shopping Contractors Can Cost You More in the Long RunCan I get a better price?” It’s one of the most common questions homeowners ask when looking to hire a contractor. And we get it—no one wants to overpay.
July 28, 2025
Why We Recommend Electrical Safety Inspections for Beaverton Homes Built Before 1980Beaverton is full of charming homes with character—from ranch-style houses in Cedar Hills to mid-century gems near Raleigh Park. But if your home was
July 23, 2025
Top 5 Most Common Electrical Problems in Beaverton Homes (And How to Fix Them)If you’re a homeowner in Beaverton, Oregon, you may have experienced flickering lights, warm outlets, or breakers that seem to trip at the worst possible
July 21, 2025
Powering Forward: Smiley Electric Is Proud To Be a Minority-Owned Business in BeavertonAt Smiley Electric, we’re more than electricians—we’re part of the Beaverton community. And as a proud minority-owned business, we believe representation
July 11, 2025
Common Household Electrical Issues: Expert Solutions for a Safe HomeIn a quiet neighborhood, homes were shadowed by constant electrical issues. Though not always severe, these inconveniences disrupted the peace with
July 7, 2025
Illuminate Your Space: Expert Electrical Solutions by Smiley Electric Inc.Are you seeking to brighten up your home or office with safe and reliable electrical solutions? Look no further! Smiley Electric Inc. is your trusted
May 30, 2025
Powering Businesses with Smiley Electric Inc.: Commercial Electrical Services You Can Count OnWelcome to the official blog of Smiley Electric Inc. , your go-to team for dependable, expert electrical services in Oregon! Today, we’re diving into
April 7, 2025
Let’s talk about Tariffs!I was thinking back to COVID and couldn’t help but remember that all the prices went up on construction materials and electrical parts like: Electrical
April 4, 2025
The Ultimate Guide to Solar Panels: Benefits, Installation, and CostAs the world pivots towards sustainable energy, solar panels have emerged as a leading solution for eco-friendly power. In this comprehensive guide, we
January 2, 2025
Searching for “Electricians Near Me”?Searching for “Electricians Near Me”? You’re not alone. It’s a common query for homeowners and business owners alike when electrical issues arise. But
2024
October 16, 2024
Most commonly used electrical devices in homesLet’s discuss electrical work, specifically focusing on one of the most commonly used electrical devices in homes: Receptacles, also known as outlets,
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