Questions.
Direct answers.
If your question isn’t here, call us at (555) 014-2210 — electrical questions always get a straight answer, no obligation.
How much does an electrician service call cost in Boise?
Beacon's service call is $89 flat — and it's always credited toward the repair. If we diagnose the problem and you approve the fix, the $89 comes off the invoice. If you decide not to proceed, the $89 covers the diagnostic. You'll know the full repair price before we pick up a tool.
Do you install Level 2 EV chargers in existing homes?
Yes. Level 2 EV charger installation is one of our most common residential jobs. We run a dedicated 240V circuit from your panel, mount the EVSE at the garage or exterior wall, and handle the permit. Most installs are finished in under six hours. We work with all major EVSE brands and can advise on the right unit if you haven't purchased one yet.
How long does a panel upgrade take?
Most residential 200A panel upgrades are completed in a single day — typically six to eight hours. We file the permit before arrival, coordinate the utility disconnect in the morning, and have power restored by early afternoon. The city inspection is scheduled the same week. You'll have documentation in hand before the end of the month.
Is Beacon Electric licensed and insured in Idaho?
Yes. Beacon Electric Co. operates under Idaho Master Electrician license #IEL-M-28847, issued by the Idaho Division of Building Safety. Every crew member holds an active Idaho journeyman or master license. We carry $1,000,000 general liability, workers' compensation on all employees, and a licensed contractor bond. Documentation is available on request.
Can you do same-day electrical repairs?
For urgent situations — no power to critical circuits, a tripped main breaker that won't reset, burning smells, or sparking at a panel — call us directly at (555) 014-2210. We hold schedule space for urgent calls. For standard troubleshooting and non-emergency repairs, most appointments are scheduled within 24 hours of your call.
What's included in a whole-home electrical inspection?
Our 60-point inspection covers the service entrance and utility connection, the main panel and all breakers, GFCI and AFCI device coverage, a sample of outlets and switches throughout the home, exterior fixtures and weatherhead condition, and any visible attic or crawlspace wiring. You receive a written report with findings ranked by severity — suitable for insurance renewals or real estate transactions. The flat fee is $149.
Do I need a permit for electrical work in Boise, ID?
Most electrical work in Boise and Ada County requires a permit — this includes panel upgrades, new circuits, EV charger installations, and sub-panels. Simple device replacements (outlets, switches, fixtures) typically don't. We tell you upfront whether a permit is required, we file it before we start, and we schedule the inspection. Permit costs are included in our estimates, not added as a surprise at billing.
How do I know if my home needs a panel upgrade?
Common signs: your main panel is 100A or 150A service (look at the main breaker label), you have a Federal Pacific Stab-Lok panel, breakers trip frequently under normal household load, or you're adding an EV charger or other high-draw appliance and your current panel is at capacity. If you're not sure, our $89 diagnostic visit includes a panel capacity assessment.
Still have questions?
Describe your situation and we’ll tell you exactly what you’re dealing with and what it costs. Most calls take five minutes. The $89 service call covers anything we can’t diagnose over the phone.