Electrical Safety & How-To Tips
Expert guidance from our licensed electricians serving the Tampa Bay area. Learn when to tackle a project yourself, when to call the pros, and what Florida code actually requires for your home.
Essential electrical safety resources
Expert advice written by our licensed team. Need help with something specific? Reach out directly or call (727) 877-8003 – we’re here to help you find the answer.
Generators
Comparing Generator Brands: Generac vs Cummins vs Kohler
Real differences between the leading standby generator manufacturers – from long-term reliability and local parts sourcing to installation costs and insurance requirements in coastal Pinellas County.
EV Chargers
EV Charger Maintenance: What to check yearly
Your annual pre-hurricane checklist for Level 2 home charging stations – inspecting cables for wear, testing breakers and GFCI protection, cleaning connectors, and what salt air does to outdoor equipment.
Emergency
Next Steps After an Electrical Fire
Critical first 24 hours: proper documentation for your claim, the insurance notification sequence, why letting the system settle before restoring power is the safer call, and Florida Building Code compliance requirements for all repair work.
Hiring
How to Choose an Electrician for Renovations
Six critical questions to ask before you sign any contract, warning signs that indicate unlicensed work, and the essential documentation you must receive before the first day of work begins.
Outdoor
Best Outdoor Outlets for All Weather
In-use weatherproof covers versus standard flip lids, NEC 406.9 requirements for Florida installations, proper GFCI placement around pools and hot tubs, and which receptacles stand up best to Gulf Coast salt-air corrosion.
Panels
Signs Your Panel Needs an Upgrade
Federal Pacific, Zinsco, and Pushmatic panels remain common in older Clearwater and St. Petersburg homes. Recognize the early signs and understand what a code-compliant replacement involves under current code.
Have a particular electrical question?
Submit your question and we’ll create a detailed guide to answer it. Meanwhile, our Clearwater team is ready to help you right now.