RESIDENTIAL ELECTRICAL SERVICES
Your home’s electrical system is the backbone of your daily life. At Lit Electric, we provide reliable, expert residential electrical services designed to keep your home safe, efficient, and comfortable. From small repairs to major installations, our licensed electricians are here to ensure your home’s electrical system works flawlessly.
SERVICE INFORMATION
Your home is your sanctuary, and its electrical system should work seamlessly to support your lifestyle. At Lit Electric, we specialize in providing reliable, safe, and efficient solutions for homeowners. From everyday repairs to major upgrades, we handle every project with the care and attention your family deserves.
Recognizing Early Signs of Electrical Issues
Homeowners can often spot electrical problems before they escalate—if they know what to look for. Watch for clues like lights that dim or flicker without reason, outlets that spark or feel warm to the touch, and circuit breakers that seem to trip more often than they should (even when you’re not running extra appliances). Any burning odor near outlets or switches deserves immediate attention, as it could signal overheating or faulty wiring.
If your home still has two-pronged outlets instead of modern grounded ones, or if you notice buzzing noises coming from walls or fixtures, it’s time to call in a pro. Catching these signs early and addressing them quickly not only keeps your family safe, but can also prevent larger, more expensive problems down the road. And as always, if something doesn’t seem right, don’t ignore your instincts—electrical safety starts with awareness.
Lit Electric – Powering St. Louis with Expertise, Integrity, and a Personal Touch.
Whether you’re upgrading to energy-efficient systems or exploring renewable energy options, we have the expertise to help you make the most of your energy resources.
Why Lit Electric for Residential Services
Your Trusted Partner in Home Electrical Care
At Lit Electric, we’re committed to helping homeowners in St. Louis and beyond enjoy safe, efficient, and beautifully lit spaces. Reach out to us today for expert residential electrical services you can count on.
Our Residential Services Include:
- Electrical Repairs: Quick and reliable solutions for common electrical problems such as faulty outlets, flickering lights, or circuit breaker issues.
Outlet and Switch Upgrades: When Is It Time?
Upgrading or adding outlets and switches is a smart move whenever your home’s needs change—like during renovations, room additions, or if you’re finding yourself constantly reaching for power strips. If you notice outlets that are loose, discolored, or simply not meeting your daily demands, it’s a sign that it’s time for an update.
Modern outlets offer greater safety features—including tamper-resistant designs and built-in USB ports—making daily life both safer and more convenient. Swapping out old switches or adding dimmers can also transform the mood and efficiency of your space.
If your current system feels outdated or can’t keep up with the technology you use every day, an upgrade will help you enjoy peace of mind, save energy, and future-proof your home.
What to Do When the Power Goes Out
Power outages can happen for a variety of reasons, from storms to overloaded circuits. When your lights go dark, here’s how to handle it safely and efficiently:
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- Stay Calm: First, take a breath and assess the situation—no need to panic.
- Check Your Neighbors: Look outside to see if nearby homes are also without power. If it’s just your home, the issue may be internal.
- Contact Your Utility Company: For widespread outages, notify your utility provider (like Ameren or Spire) and sign up for restoration alerts if available.
- Unplug Sensitive Devices: Protect your appliances by unplugging electronics until power is restored.
- Don’t Ignore Lingering Problems: If power returns but parts of your home remain dark or electrical issues persist, it’s time to call a licensed electrician. This may indicate a problem with your home’s wiring or electrical panel.
Prompt action during a power outage helps keep your family safe and can prevent bigger headaches down the line.
- Panel Upgrades: Modernize your home’s electrical panel to meet today’s energy demands and improve safety.
- Lighting Installation: Enhance your home’s ambiance with custom indoor and outdoor lighting, including energy-efficient LED options.
- Home Automation: Integrate smart home technologies for convenience, energy savings, and improved security.
- Safety Inspections: Comprehensive evaluations to identify potential hazards and ensure your home meets current safety standards.
Brighten Your Home and Lower Your Bills
Switching to energy-efficient lighting—like LED or CFL bulbs—can make a noticeable difference in both your monthly expenses and your impact on the planet. Traditional incandescent bulbs use more electricity to produce the same amount of light, which means higher utility bills and unnecessary energy waste. By upgrading to modern lighting options, you’ll enjoy:
Electrical Inspections: What to Expect
During a typical electrical inspection, one of our licensed electricians will carefully review your entire electrical system to ensure everything is operating safely and efficiently. This thorough evaluation includes:
- Examining circuit breakers and fuse boxes for proper function and capacity
- Inspecting wiring and connections to catch any signs of damage or wear
- Testing outlets, switches, and major appliances for safe operation
- Assessing grounding systems to prevent electrical hazards
Our goal is both to spot existing problems and to identify potential risks before they become costly or dangerous. You’ll receive clear feedback and recommendations, so you can feel confident that your home is safe, up to code, and ready for anything—whether you’re settling in, renovating, or just want peace of mind.
Commitment to Electrical Code Compliance
Electrical codes and regulations aren’t just rules—they’re essential safeguards designed to protect your home, your loved ones, and your investment. Keeping up with these evolving standards is crucial for ensuring every installation or upgrade is not only safe but also fully compliant with local and national guidelines, such as those established by the National Electrical Code (NEC).
By choosing professionals who stay current with the latest electrical codes, you benefit from:
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- Enhanced Safety: Modern codes are updated to address new technologies, better prevent hazards like electrical fires, and ensure the safety of your home’s occupants.
- Legal Protection: Code-compliant work reduces the risk of costly fines or complications if you decide to sell, remodel, or insure your home.
- Peace of Mind: Projects completed to current standards provide confidence that your electrical systems are reliable, efficient, and future-ready.
We take pride in staying ahead of updates—so you never have to wonder if your home is safe or up to code.
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- Reduced electricity consumption, leading to lower monthly bills
- Longer-lasting bulbs, so you replace them less often
- Lower heat output, keeping rooms cooler in the summer months
Not only will your home feel brighter and more inviting, but you’ll also be taking a simple yet effective step in reducing your carbon footprint. Energy-smart lighting solutions combine comfort, safety, and savings—lighting the way toward a greener, more cost-effective home.
- EV Charger Installation: Prepare your home for the future with convenient electric vehicle charging stations.
- Rewiring and Renovations: Upgrade outdated wiring or install new systems during remodeling projects.
Why Choose Lit Electric for Your Home?
- Personalized Service: We treat your home like it’s our own, providing customized solutions and careful attention to detail.
- Safety First: We prioritize your family’s safety, adhering to strict safety protocols and using high-quality materials.
- Reliable Expertise: With years of experience, we deliver expert service you can trust for projects big and small.
- Transparent Pricing: No surprises—just honest, upfront pricing for every service.
When to Call a Professional for Persistent Power Outages
Frequent or ongoing power outages can disrupt your routine and might signal a bigger problem with your home’s electrical system. While it’s normal to have occasional outages due to storms or issues in your neighborhood, repeated losses of power—especially if your neighbors aren’t affected—are a sign to call in a licensed electrician.
Here’s when it’s time to bring in the experts:
- Isolated Outages: If your house is the only one experiencing an outage, even after checking your circuit breakers and resetting any tripped switches.
- Flickering or Dimming Lights: If your lights dim unexpectedly or flicker for no apparent reason.
- Breakers That Won’t Reset: When a circuit breaker keeps tripping and won’t reset, or you sense burning smells, buzzing, or unusual warmth at outlets and panels.
- After Utility Repairs: If power isn’t fully restored after your utility provider (like Ameren) says the outage is resolved.
- Appliance Failures: When major appliances repeatedly shut down or stop working due to inconsistent power.
Persistent electrical issues may indicate faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or aging panels. Don’t ignore the warning signs—prompt assessment by a professional not only keeps things running smoothly but also protects your home and family.
Signs Your Home May Need Rewiring
Older homes—as well as those experiencing recurring electrical hiccups—can show clear warning signs that it’s time to consider rewiring. If you notice any of the following issues, your home’s electrical system may need an upgrade:
- Persistent Flickering or Dimming Lights: Lights that constantly flicker or dim, even after bulb replacements, can point to outdated or damaged wiring.
- Frequently Tripped Circuit Breakers: If your breakers or fuses are repeatedly tripping, it may signal your wiring is struggling to handle your electrical needs.
- Ungrounded or Two-Prong Outlets: A lack of grounded (three-prong) outlets, especially in older properties, suggests the system may not meet modern safety standards.
- Unusual Odors or Scorch Marks: Smelling something burning near outlets or noticing black marks and heat on switches and outlets is a red flag that shouldn’t be ignored.
- Buzzing Sounds from Outlets or Switches: Any odd noises coming from your electrical system can indicate loose connections or wiring that’s past its prime.
Catching these warning signs early can prevent more serious issues and keep your home safe and powered reliably.
OTHER SERVICES
At Lit Electric, we pride ourselves on being your one-stop solution for both residential and commercial electrical needs. With a team of licensed electricians and a dedication to excellence, we deliver tailored, high-quality services that keep homes and businesses in the St. Louis, St Charles and Lincoln County area powered, safe, and efficient.
Energy Survey
Save on energy costs with advanced solutions like smart systems, energy audits, and sustainable power options.
Lighting
Enhance energy efficiency and aesthetics with expert lighting design and installation, including LED retrofits and custom fixtures. Our comprehensive services cover everything from parking lot and sports complex lighting to emergency, security, and even airport lighting. We also provide roadway and highway lighting as well as lightning protection systems, ensuring your property is safe, well-lit, and up to code.
New Construction and Remodel
From wiring new buildings to upgrading existing systems, we handle all aspects of commercial and residential electrical installations.
Cable Networking
Boost your business productivity with expertly installed network cabling for fast, secure data transfer and reliable connectivity for offices, retail spaces, and more.
Power Distribution
Ensure seamless operations with reliable power distribution systems, panel upgrades, and transformer installations.
Safety Inspections
Comprehensive evaluations to identify potential hazards and ensure your home meets current safety standards.
QUALITY GUARANTEE
Whether you’re a homeowner in need of an upgrade or a business owner looking for dependable electrical solutions, Lit Electric is here to help. Contact us today to experience the personalized service and expert craftsmanship that set us apart.
FREE QUOTE
Do you need help with electrical project? Fill out this form to get in touch.
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OFFICE LINE
(636) 306-2488
EMERGENCY
(636) 306-2488
WORKING HOURS
7:00am – 5:00pm
OFFICE LINE
(636) 306-2488
WORKING HOURS
7:00am – 5:00pm
Residential Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Incentives or Rebates for Electrical Panel Upgrades?
Absolutely! Before making the investment in a new electrical panel, it’s wise to explore whether you qualify for discounts, rebates, or energy efficiency incentives. Many local public utility companies—including Ameren Missouri and others—periodically offer financial incentives to encourage upgrades that improve home safety and energy efficiency.
Depending on your location, you might be eligible for:
- Rebates on panel upgrades meant to accommodate smart meters or electric vehicles
- Energy-saving program discounts for increasing your panel’s capacity safely
- Federal or state tax credits tied to home energy improvements
We always recommend reaching out to your local utility provider to check for current offers before upgrading your panel. A quick call or a visit to their website could help reduce out-of-pocket costs—and make your upgrade even brighter.
How Circuit Breakers and Grounding Wires Work in Your Electrical Panel
Think of your electrical panel as the brains and bouncer of your home or business’s electrical system. Inside, circuit breakers serve a crucial safety function — they’re designed to instantly cut off power if a circuit draws too much electricity, which helps prevent electrical fires and damage to your appliances. If you ever notice a breaker “tripping,” it’s actually your panel doing its job by shutting down an overloaded line.
Alongside the breakers, grounding wires offer another layer of protection. They safely channel excess electricity away from your system and into the earth during a fault or surge, greatly reducing the risk of shock or fire. Proper grounding isn’t just a code requirement — it’s essential for keeping modern electronics, smart devices, and your entire property safe from unexpected electrical hazards.
Ensuring your panel has enough breakers and up-to-date grounding can make a world of difference for both safety and electrical reliability—especially as you add more tech or appliances.
How Long Do Electrical Panels Last?
Most electrical panels serve reliably for about 25 to 40 years, but that lifespan depends on how much demand is placed on them and how well they’ve been maintained. Heavy usage—like powering modern appliances, high-tech electronics, or larger HVAC systems—can shorten an older panel’s effectiveness. If your property still relies on the original panel from decades ago, it may already be nearing the end of its safe and efficient service life. Signs of age or system strain could mean it’s time to consider an upgrade for peace of mind and code compliance.
Common Causes of Overloaded Circuits and Electrical Fires
Overloaded circuits are a leading culprit when it comes to electrical fires in both homes and businesses. But what actually triggers an overload—and how can it turn a circuit breaker panel from a line of defense into a point of failure?
Here’s what to look out for:
- Plugging too many devices into a single circuit: Power strips, extension cords, space heaters, and high-wattage appliances can quickly exceed the safe limits of older panels.
- Outdated fuse boxes and undersized panels: Many panels in St. Louis area homes were installed decades ago and simply weren’t built to accommodate today’s demand from major appliances, HVAC, or smart home tech.
- Worn or faulty wiring: Loose connections, corroded aluminum wiring (especially in homes built between the 1960s-70s), or outdated fabric-insulated wires can all become sources of excess heat.
- Improperly rated breakers and wires: Using the wrong size circuit breakers or wiring for your electrical load prevents the system from shutting down safely—allowing wires to overheat.
- Ignored warning signs: Flickering or dimming lights, burning smells, and frequently tripped breakers are all signs your electrical system is being pushed too far.
Left unchecked, these issues can generate enough heat to melt insulation, spark, and ignite surrounding materials—putting you, your family, or your employees at risk. Upgrading your electrical panel and wiring is the best way to ensure each circuit is properly protected and reduce the risk of preventable fires.
What to Look for in an Electrician for Your Panel Upgrade
Not all electricians are created equal, especially when it comes to something as critical as upgrading your electrical panel. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you vet your options:
- Licensing and Insurance: Always confirm that your electrician is fully licensed and insured in Missouri. This protects both your property and their crew.
- Specialized Experience: Ask if they have a track record with panel upgrades and service changes, not just general electrical work. Someone confident with both residential and commercial projects is ideal.
- Certifications and Ongoing Training: Reputable electricians stay current with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and regularly update their skills.
- Positive Reviews and Recommendations: Check out reviews on Google, Yelp, or with the Better Business Bureau. Even better, ask neighbors or friends for first-hand recommendations.
- Transparent Pricing: Don’t be afraid to request multiple quotes. A professional won’t shy away from providing a clear, detailed estimate outlining every step of the project.
- Clear Communication: From the initial walkthrough to the final inspection, your electrician should answer questions, explain permits, and outline timelines so you know exactly what’s happening.
By choosing a qualified professional, you’ll ensure your new panel is installed to code, functions safely, and gives you peace of mind for years to come.
Electrical Panel Upgrade Safety: Best Practices to Know
Safety is our top priority at every stage of an electrical panel upgrade. Whether you’re taking the first step or bringing in a professional, remember these essential precautions:
- Power Down Before Work Begins: Always shut off power to the panel before any inspection, installation, or upgrade starts. This includes verifying with a voltage tester to confirm zero voltage at the panel.
- Wear Appropriate Protective Gear: Licensed electricians will use personal protective equipment (PPE) like insulated gloves, safety glasses, and flame-resistant clothing to guard against electrical shock or arc flashes.
- Follow All Codes and Permits: Every upgrade must comply with the latest National Electrical Code (NEC) guidelines and any local Missouri codes. Necessary permits should always be pulled, and all work should be inspected by your city or county.
- Proper Panel Sizing and Circuit Layout: The new panel should be sized appropriately—overloading circuits or installing an undersized panel can create major hazards down the line. Careful attention to circuit labeling and balanced loads helps prevent future issues.
- Hire a Licensed Electrician: Electrical panel upgrades aren’t DIY territory. Always trust a licensed electrician who has experience with residential and commercial panel work. This is critical for ensuring the safety—and insurance compliance—of your property.
- Careful Testing After Installation: Once installed, the entire system should be tested for safe, correct operation. This includes checking for hot spots, confirming breaker function, and verifying that all connections are secure.
Upgrading your panel the right way means a safer home or business, peace of mind, and the confidence that your electrical system will support your needs for years to come.
When unpredictable Midwest storms roll in or grid failures hit without warning, having a generator can be a true game changer for your property. Here’s why investing in a backup generator is a smart decision for homeowners and businesses alike:
- Reliability When the Grid Fails: Power outages often strike at the worst times—whether you’re hosting family dinner or running critical business operations. A standby generator from brands like Generac or Kohler automatically kicks in to keep your lights, appliances, and essential systems running.
- Protection for Your Home or Business: Extended outages can put refrigerated goods, medical devices, sump pumps, and security systems at risk. Generators provide peace of mind and help prevent costly damages or losses.
- Increased Property Value: Homes and commercial properties with professionally installed generators are more attractive to buyers and may command a higher resale value in areas prone to outages.
- Convenience & Comfort: Keep your heating and cooling systems, electronics, and daily routines uninterrupted—regardless of what’s happening outside.
- Business Continuity: For commercial and industrial clients, a generator protects against lost revenue and ensures employee safety during emergencies.
With our expertise in emergency electrical service across St. Louis, O’Fallon, and St. Charles, we help you choose and install the right generator to fit your needs, budget, and peace of mind.
Absolutely—and here’s why. Routine electrical maintenance isn’t just about keeping the lights on; it’s essential for keeping your home and family safe. Outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, or worn components can put you at risk for electrical fires, unexpected outages, or extensive (and expensive) damage down the line.
Think about it like getting your car’s oil changed: preventative care saves you headache and cash over time. Professional electricians will check for hazards, test breakers, verify GFCIs, and spot problems before they become emergencies. That way, you avoid waking up to a dark house or a refrigerator full of spoiled groceries.
Scheduling annual (or at least bi-annual) inspections means:
- Lower risk of electrical fires and shocks
- Greater efficiency from your appliances and lighting
- Protection for your electronics during storms
- Peace of mind—especially in older homes with aging wiring
So, if you want to keep your home running smoothly and safely, regular electrical maintenance is more than just a good idea—it’s a must.
Absolutely—an electrical inspection is one of the smartest steps you can take before committing to your new house. While a place might look picture-perfect on the surface, outdated wiring, overloaded panels, or hidden code violations can lurk behind the walls and lead to safety hazards or expensive repairs down the road.
By having a licensed electrician check the property before you sign on the dotted line, you’ll know what you’re getting into. Here are a few reasons why it pays to schedule an inspection:
- Safety First: Faulty wiring is a leading cause of house fires. An inspection can catch issues like damaged wires, improper grounding, or overloaded circuits—all things that compromise your family’s safety.
- Cost Savings: Identifying electrical problems early means you can negotiate repairs with the seller or factor costs into your offer, instead of facing surprise bills after move-in.
- Peace of Mind: No one wants to be left in the dark—or worse, dealing with a failed inspection when trying to insure or refinance. A professional check ensures everything is up to modern standards and ready for your appliances, tech, and lifestyle needs.
- Compliance: Local codes (and even insurance companies) may require upgrades before issuing policies or occupancy permits. It’s better to discover these needs before closing.
Think of it as a small investment for a safer, smoother home-buying experience—one that protects both your purchase and your peace of mind.
Taking on electrical repairs around the house? While we applaud the DIY spirit, there are a few frequent code violations even well-meaning homeowners stumble over—sometimes with dangerous results. Here’s what we see most often:
- Missing or Improperly Installed GFCI Outlets: Kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor areas require ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets by code. Skipping these or installing them incorrectly can leave you exposed to shock hazards.
- Overfilled Electrical Boxes: Trying to cram too many wires into a single junction box is a classic mistake. It can cause overheating, which may lead to fires.
- Unprotected or Unsupported Wiring: Running Romex or other wires outside of walls without conduit—or leaving wires dangling across joists—violates code and creates tripping and fire hazards.
- No Wire Connectors (Wire Nuts): Twisting wires together without securing them properly (e.g., using approved wire nuts) is both unsafe and not up to code.
- Incorrect Circuit Breaker Sizes: Swapping in a larger breaker to “fix” frequent tripping sounds helpful, but it defeats the breaker’s purpose and can overheat wires.
- Lack of Proper Grounding: Not grounding outlets, switches, or fixtures is common in older home updates, but modern code (and safety) requires those ground wires.
If you spot any of these issues at home—or suspect an electrical job might not have been done quite right—it’s worth a professional look. We’re here to help, day or night!
