Electrician FAQs

1.How much do you charge?

All estimates are free. Contact us for a free estimate.

2.Do you do small residential electric or large commercial electric?

We provide service to both homes and businesses, any size job from receptacles to new home construction, and design-build commercial/ industrial projects. Please refer to our residential electric page and our commercial electric page for more information.

3. Why should I use a licensed electrician?

Licensed Electricians, like ASCOM Electric, are regulated and certified by the state of PA. Unlicensed electricians are not subject to the laws protecting customers, nor does home owner’s insurance cover damages that they cause. Our PA Contractor Registration # is PA6092.

4.What forms of payment do you accept?

ASCOM Electric accepts cash or check.

5.How do I know if I need an electrical permit?

Whether or not your need an electrical permit depends on your project. Something such as installing new electrical wiring will likely need a permit, while replacing an electrical outlet may not. ASCOM Electric will pull permits for the work needed.

6.I reset my breaker, but my power is still out.

In order to reset the breaker, you must make sure you firmly press the breaker into the off position and then back to the on position. If your power still remains out, contact ASCOM Electric.

7.What are the warning signs of electrical fires?
•Recurring problems with blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers.
•Flickering lights.
•A burning smell or unusual odor near appliances or wiring.
•A sizzling sound at wall switches or outlets.
•Appliances that deliver a slight shock when touched

These warning signs may mean the circuit is overloaded, which can cause electrical fires. If you are experiencing any of these problems, contact ASCOM Electric for a free estimate.

8.Can I do electrical work myself?

Electrical work is not only dangerous, but can be expensive to repair if done improperly. If you do not have the skill level to handle your electrical job, contact ASCOM Electric for a free estimate.

9.Some of my outlets or lights work, but others don’t. Why is this happening?

One possibility is that these outlet or lights are on a different circuit than the others. Another possibility is that the outlet is bad. Reset all of the breakers and if it still doesn’t work, call ASCOM Electric to replace it.


Solar Installation FAQs

1.How much does a solar electric system cost?

The costs of a solar installation depend on several factors including the number and type of panels installed. Contact us for a free solar analysis estimate to find out how a solar electric system can benefit you.

2.Can I receive rebates or incentives for installing Solar Panels?

State and Federal government provide programs and rebates for solar panel installation. Check out our Solar Installation page for specific programs or contact us for more information.

3.How much money can I save by installing Solar Panels?

By installing solar panels, you can potentially save up to your entire electric bill. This depends on several factors including how much electricity your home or business uses and the cost of electricity in your area.  In addition, you will receive revenue from Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) generation sales.  Contact us for more information.

4.What is a Solar Renewable Energy Credit?

A Solar Renewable Energy Credit or SREC is a tradable, non-tangible energy commodity that represents proof that 1 megawatt-hour (1,000 kWh) of solar electricity has been generated.  SRECs are normally compiled by an Aggregator (or SREC broker) who has relationships with Electricity Generators, such as Met-Ed or PPL. 

Electricity Generators are required by law to have a percentage of their overall production come from Solar Energy.  Instead of buying their own land and covering it with their own Solar Arrays, they purchase SRECs from home and business owners.  These SRECs are then proof that they have met their Solar Production requirements.  If they do not purchase enough SRECs from consumers, fines and penalties are levied against them.

Most residential Solar Arrays are capable of generating between 3-12 SRECs per year, depending on the size of the array.  (how many panels are producing electricity.)


5.Are you licensed to install Solar Panels?

ASCOM Electric is licensed to install solar panels for your home or business. We have done numerous projects in this field, including a 100 panel installation at the New Eastern Market in York, PA, and over 50+ home installations.

6.What is photovoltaic s?

Photovoltaics is the science of converting solar radiation into electricity through solar panels. This process is known as the photo-electric effect.

7.Are solar panels producing electricity even when it’s cloudy?

Yes, however, less energy is produced than on a bright sunny day.

8.Can I run my whole home or business on solar energy?

Potentially, yes.  A free solar analysis will determine your current electricity consumption level.  A solar array can then be sized according to your need. Contact us for a free estimate.

9.How much power do solar panels produce?

That depends on the type of panel, and how many are used.  On average, most solar panels are rated between 175 watts and 235 watts.


ASCOM FAQs