Your Local Electrical Questions, Answered

Here are answers to some of the most common questions we receive from homeowners and businesses in the North Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach, Conway, and entire Grand Strand area.

Do I need a permit for minor electrical work in Horry County?

For most minor work, like replacing a light fixture or an outlet in the same location, a permit is typically not required. However, for more significant work—such as running a new circuit (like for an EV charger), replacing an electrical panel, or wiring a new addition—a permit from Horry County Planning & Zoning is absolutely required. We handle the entire permitting process for our clients to ensure all work is fully compliant and documented.

How does the coastal salt air affect my outdoor electrical fixtures?

This is a critical issue on the Grand Strand. Salt spray is highly corrosive and can destroy cheap, builder-grade fixtures in a matter of months. It can cause connections to fail and lead to safety hazards. We exclusively recommend and install fixtures made from marine-grade materials like brass, copper, or high-quality composites that are designed to withstand the harsh coastal environment, ensuring your investment in landscape lighting or outdoor security lasts for years.

My condo in Cherry Grove was built in the 1980s. Is the wiring safe?

Many properties in our area from that era may have outdated wiring or overloaded panels. While not always dangerous, it's wise to have an inspection. Common issues we find include worn-out outlets that can't hold a plug securely, a lack of GFCI protection in kitchens and baths, and panels that are undersized for modern electrical demands. We can perform a comprehensive Electrical Safety Inspection to identify any potential issues and give you peace of mind, especially for a rental property.

What electrical steps should I take to prepare for a hurricane?

Hurricane preparedness is key. First, ensure your whole-home surge protector is functioning correctly. Before a storm hits, unplug sensitive electronics like TVs and computers. Know the location of your main breaker and how to turn it off safely if you are instructed to evacuate or in case of flooding. And of course, the ultimate preparation is a professionally installed standby generator, which can keep your power on for days after a storm passes.

Are there special safety requirements for dock and boat lift wiring?

Yes, and they are extremely important. Due to the proximity to water, all dock and boat lift wiring must be impeccably installed and protected by GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) breakers and outlets. This is a life-saving device that prevents electric shock drowning. We use specialized marine-grade wiring and weatherproof enclosures to ensure your dock is not only functional but also completely safe for your family and guests. Never trust dock wiring to a handyman.

Are your estimates free?

Yes. We provide free, no-obligation quotes for all installation projects, including panel upgrades, generator installations, lighting design, and EV chargers. For troubleshooting and repair service calls, we have a standard diagnostic fee to come to your location and determine the root cause of the problem. We will always provide you with a clear, upfront price for the repair before any work is done.

Are whole-home surge protectors worth it in a lightning-prone area like Myrtle Beach?

Yes, absolutely. Coastal South Carolina is a hotspot for lightning strikes. A standard plug-in surge protector only protects the devices plugged into it. A whole-home surge protector is installed at your electrical panel and protects your entire electrical system. This includes major appliances like your HVAC system, refrigerator, washer, and sensitive electronics that aren't on a power strip. It's a small investment to protect thousands of dollars in equipment.

What are the signs that I need to replace my electrical panel?

You should consider a panel inspection or upgrade if you notice any of these signs:

  • Your home still uses an old fuse box instead of circuit breakers.
  • Your breakers trip frequently.
  • Your lights flicker or dim when you turn on a large appliance.
  • You can hear crackling or buzzing sounds coming from the panel.
  • You're planning a major renovation or adding a large appliance like a hot tub or EV charger.

Do you offer 24/7 emergency services?

Yes, we understand that electrical emergencies don't always happen during business hours. We offer emergency service for critical issues like power loss, sparking panels, and other serious safety hazards.