Major System Malfunction
Major System Malfunction | Electrical Repair | Electrical | Charleston
When surging lights, tripped breakers, or the ominous scent of overheated wiring bring your home to a standstill, HEP’s master electricians are on-call in Charleston to turn chaos into comfort. We arrive fast, pinpoint the fault with state-of-the-art diagnostics, and restore power with code-compliant workmanship that keeps your family safe for years to come. From emergency panel replacements to rewiring aging circuits, every solution is backed by transparent pricing, a tidy workspace, and the friendly service that’s made us a Lowcountry favorite.
Whether your issue strikes at midnight during a storm or during a busy Sunday barbecue, one call puts an entire truck of parts and expertise at your doorstep for immediate electrical repair. Trust HEP to bring the lights—and your peace of mind—back on.
FAQs
What qualifies as a major electrical system malfunction?
A major malfunction involves any failure that disrupts power to multiple circuits, poses a fire or shock hazard, or affects critical equipment such as your service panel, main breaker, or feeder cables. Examples include persistent tripped breakers that will not reset, burning smells or visible arcing at outlets or the panel, partial power loss in several rooms, or melted wiring. These issues require immediate professional attention because they can quickly escalate into property damage or personal injury.
How can I tell if my Charleston home or business is experiencing a serious wiring problem?
Warning signs include lights that dim or flicker across several rooms, breakers that trip repeatedly even after being reset, warm or discolored outlets, buzzing or crackling sounds from the panel, burning odors, or unexplained spikes in your electric bill. If you notice any of these symptoms, shut off the affected circuit (if safe to do so) and call a licensed electrician right away.
What should I do first when a sudden electrical failure occurs?
1) Stay calm and avoid touching any affected equipment. 2) If you see sparks, flames, or smell burning, cut power at the main breaker if it is safe and call 911. 3) Unplug sensitive electronics to prevent surge damage. 4) Contact a licensed Charleston electrical repair service for an emergency assessment. Never attempt major repairs yourself—Charleston and South Carolina codes require a qualified electrician for service-panel and branch-circuit work.
Are permits or inspections required for major electrical repairs in Charleston?
Yes. The City of Charleston and Charleston County follow the 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC) and require electrical permits for service upgrades, panel replacements, new circuits, and most repairs that involve altering permanent wiring. After the work is completed, a municipal or county inspector must verify code compliance before the system can be re-energized. Reputable contractors will handle the permitting process on your behalf.
How fast can your Charleston emergency crew arrive, and what is the repair process?
Our on-call technicians are stationed throughout the Charleston metro area; we typically arrive within 60–90 minutes for emergencies. Upon arrival we 1) perform a safety inspection, 2) isolate and de-energize the faulty circuit, 3) diagnose the root cause with thermal imaging and circuit tracing, 4) provide you with a written estimate, and 5) carry out repairs once you approve. Most critical faults are stabilized the same day, with follow-up visits scheduled if extensive rewiring or parts sourcing is required.
What factors affect the cost of fixing a major electrical system malfunction?
Costs vary based on the severity and location of the damage, required parts (breakers, wiring, panels), labor hours, permit fees, and whether after-hours emergency service is needed. Minor breaker replacements might range from $150–$300, while full panel replacements or service-entrance repairs can run $1,500–$3,500. We provide a transparent, itemized quote before beginning any work, and we offer financing options for large projects.