Electrical help & troubleshooting
Straight answers on the electrical problems we get called about most: what is safe to check yourself, and when it is time to call a licensed electrician. When in doubt, call us.
Breakers & panels
Why does my breaker keep tripping?
Breaker keeps tripping in Portland, OR? Smiley Electric finds the cause and fixes it fast. Call a licensed electrician today.
Breaker won't reset? Here's what it means and what to do
Breaker won't reset in Portland, OR? Smiley Electric diagnoses and fixes the fault fast. Call a licensed electrician today.
Why is my electrical panel buzzing?
Electrical panel buzzing in Portland, OR? Smiley Electric provides fast, safe inspections and repairs. Call today for expert help.
How do I know if my electrical panel is outdated?
How to know if your electrical panel is outdated in Portland, OR. Learn the warning signs and when a replacement may be recommended. Smiley Electric.
Outlets & switches
Outlet not working? Here's what it could mean
Outlet not working in Portland, OR? Smiley Electric provides fast, safe repairs to restore power. Call today for expert electrical service.
Warm outlet or switch? Here's what it means
Warm outlet or switch in Portland, OR? Smiley Electric provides safe, fast inspections and repairs. Call today for expert help.
Why does my GFCI keep tripping?
GFCI keeps tripping in Portland, OR? Smiley Electric diagnoses and fixes outlet and wiring issues quickly and safely. Call today.
Burning smell from an outlet? Don't ignore it
Burning smell from an outlet in Portland, OR? This is a fire risk. Smiley Electric provides fast, safe electrical repair. Call now.
Power loss
Half my house lost power: what's going on?
Half your house lost power in Portland, OR? Smiley Electric quickly diagnoses panel, breaker, and wiring issues. Call today.
Power went out in one room? Here's what it means
Power went out in one room in Portland, OR? Smiley Electric provides fast troubleshooting to restore power. Call today.
Lights & safety
Why are my lights flickering?
Lights flickering in Portland, OR? Smiley Electric diagnoses and fixes wiring, panel, and voltage issues safely. Call today.
Electrical safety checklist for Portland homeowners
A free electrical safety checklist for Portland homeowners. Spot dangerous wiring, outdated panels, and overloaded circuits before they become costly.
Panel upgrades & permits
Do I need to replace my Federal Pacific or Zinsco panel?
Have a Federal Pacific or Zinsco electrical panel in Portland, OR? Learn why these panels are considered unsafe, the warning signs, and why replacement is recommended. Smiley Electric.
What do I need for an electrical panel permit in Oregon?
Planning panel or electrical work in the Portland, OR area? A homeowner's checklist for Oregon electrical permits: clearances, service type, grounding, and load calcs. Smiley Electric.
Do I need a subpanel for my garage, ADU, or shop?
Adding a garage, shop, or ADU in the Portland, OR area? Learn when you need a subpanel, how to size it, feeder and grounding basics, and permit requirements. Smiley Electric.
EV chargers
Level 1 vs Level 2 EV charging: which do I need at home?
Level 1 or Level 2 for home EV charging in Portland, OR? Compare charging speed, circuits, and cost so you pick the right setup for your car. Smiley Electric.
Do I need a panel upgrade before installing an EV charger?
Not sure if your electrical panel can handle a Level 2 EV charger in Portland, OR? Learn what a load calculation checks and when an upgrade is needed. Smiley Electric.
What wire size does my EV charger need over a long run?
Long run to your EV charger in Portland, OR? Learn how voltage drop, wire size, and breaker sizing work so your charger runs safely at full speed. Smiley Electric.
Call and talk to the electrician, not a call center.
Talk to a licensed electrician today. Free ballpark by phone, and a firm quote on the visit before any work begins.