Are you ready for an Electric Vehicle charger?

6 Benefits of Professional Electrical Service

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 14:36:00 GMT

Modern life relies heavily on the complex web of wiring and circuitry that powers our homes and businesses. Because these systems are the literal backbone of our infrastructure, the caliber of electrical service we choose determines the safety and longevity of our properties. It is easy to take power for granted, but hidden components behind our walls require constant vigilance and expert handling to prevent catastrophic failures. Professional oversight ensures that every wire, outlet, and circuit breaker functions at peak performance while meeting rigorous modern standards.

1. Prioritize Safety and Legal Compliance

Safety remains the primary concern when dealing with high-voltage systems that can cause fires or shocks if handled incorrectly. A professional electrical service minimizes these hazards by implementing strict safety protocols and utilizing specialized equipment to detect hidden dangers like arc faults or loose connections. Certified electricians are trained to manage circuits and grounding systems with precision, ensuring that the risk of a domestic fire is virtually eliminated.

Beyond physical safety, staying compliant with the landscape of local and national electrical codes is essential for any property owner. Professional electricians dedicate significant time to staying updated on these regulations, which include specific requirements for wiring sizes, outlet placement, and circuit loads. Following these codes is not just about avoiding fines; it ensures that your system operates within legal boundaries, protecting your investment during future property appraisals or sales.

2. Maximize Long-Term Cost Savings

While some view hiring an expert as an upfront expense, it actually serves as a powerful strategy for long-term financial preservation. A high-quality electrical service focuses on preventive maintenance, which involves identifying small issues before they snowball into massive, expensive repairs. For instance, a professional can detect a failing capacitor or a corroded wire during a routine inspection, saving the homeowner from the cost of replacing entire HVAC units. This proactive approach ensures that your electrical components last for their full intended lifespan, preventing the premature waste of materials and capital in the long run.

Professionals also offer specialized energy efficiency solutions that can significantly lower monthly utility bills over time. Electricians can audit your home to recommend upgrades like LED lighting systems, smart thermostats, and energy-efficient circuit breakers that reduce total power consumption. These changes not only save money but also lower the carbon footprint of your household, aligning your property with modern environmental standards.

3. Apply Technical Expertise and Experience

The depth of knowledge required to master modern electrical systems is immense, requiring years of classroom study and on-site apprenticeship. According to JonasConstruction.com, the total workforce employed within the electrical contracting sector in the United States is slightly less than 220,000 individuals, reflecting a massive pool of specialized talent available to the public. These experts possess a thorough understanding of both legacy wiring in historic homes and the sophisticated digital interfaces found in modern smart buildings. This breadth of experience allows them to approach every task with a level of confidence and nuance.

Expertise also manifests in superior problem-solving skills and the ability to perform accurate, on-the-spot diagnoses of complex failures. When a circuit fails or a mysterious hum originates from a breaker panel, a professional electrical service identifies the root cause rather than just treating the visible symptoms. This methodical approach reduces system downtime and prevents the frustration of recurring issues that often plague poorly executed repairs.

4. Maintain Reliability and Project Efficiency

Reliability is the hallmark of any professional contractor, particularly when the work involves the essential utilities of a modern household. A dedicated electrical service operates within a structured framework that prioritizes the timely completion of projects, ensuring that your home life is not disrupted for longer than necessary. Professional teams plan their tasks with precision, coordinating material deliveries and labor to meet strict deadlines without cutting corners on quality. This level of organization provides a streamlined experience for the client, removing the stress and uncertainty that often accompany large-scale renovation or repair projects.

Consistency in quality standards is another major benefit of working with established electrical professionals who take pride in their workmanship. Every connection, splice, and installation is performed according to a rigorous set of internal benchmarks, ensuring that the results are uniform throughout the property. This commitment to excellence is often backed by detailed documentation, giving property owners a clear record of the work performed for future maintenance or insurance purposes. Reliable troubleshooting also plays a key role here, as experts can navigate the complex intersections of modern wiring to ensure that every facet of the system is operating at peak efficiency.

5. Secure Assets with Comprehensive Coverage

One of the most significant advantages of hiring a licensed professional is the assurance of work quality through formal warranties. When you invest in a professional electrical service, you are often protected by a guarantee that covers both parts and labor for a specified period. If a component fails or an installation requires adjustment after the job is finished, the contractor will typically return to fix the issue at no additional cost. This safety net provides immense value, as it shifts the financial risk away from the homeowner and onto the service provider, who stands behind the integrity of their work.

Professional electrical firms carry robust liability insurance that protects your property and your finances in the event of an unforeseen accident. Electrical work carries inherent risks, and even with the best precautions, mishaps can occur; however, an insured professional ensures that any damages to your home are covered by their policy. This level of protection is never available when performing DIY work, leaving the homeowner vulnerable to lawsuits or expensive property restoration. The resulting peace of mind allows you to focus on your daily life, confident that your home is in the hands of a protected and responsible expert.

6. Implement Advanced Technology and Tools

The modern electrician uses far more than just pliers and screwdrivers; they have access to cutting-edge equipment that revolutionizes how electrical service is delivered. Advanced diagnostic instruments, such as thermal imaging cameras, allow technicians to see heat signatures behind walls, identifying overloaded wires or loose connections before they can ignite. These high-tech tools enable a level of precision and speed that was impossible in the past, making modern repairs more effective and less invasive. By investing in the latest technology, professional contractors ensure they can solve even the most complex electrical mysteries with surgical accuracy.

Advanced technology also plays a vital role in the seamless integration of new systems into existing household infrastructures. Whether you are installing a high-speed electric vehicle charging station or a fully integrated smart home hub, a professional ensures that these components communicate perfectly with your main power supply. They understand the nuances of load balancing and signal interference, preventing modern gadgets from overwhelming your older circuits. This ability to blend tradition with innovation allows your property to remain functional and relevant in an increasingly digital world, ensuring that your electrical system is a flexible asset rather than a rigid limitation.

As our reliance on digital tools and electric infrastructure continues to expand, the need for a trustworthy partner in home maintenance becomes even more critical. Ensuring your wiring is up to the task requires a combination of deep technical knowledge, specialized tools, and a commitment to high-quality results. Whether you are planning a major renovation or simply need a routine safety inspection, investing in a high-caliber electrical service is a decision that pays dividends in safety and functionality for years to come. Contact us at Bridgetown Electric for any project, large or small.

10 Ways Local Electricians Deliver Better Service Than National Chains

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 12:44:58 GMT

Electrical systems power nearly every aspect of modern homes and businesses, making professional support a necessity rather than an option. Choosing local electricians offers practical advantages that go beyond basic convenience. From faster response times to better knowledge of regional codes, working with professionals in your area can streamline projects and improve long-term outcomes. Understanding these benefits helps property owners make informed decisions about their electrical needs. This article explores the key reasons why hiring local electricians today is a smart, forward-thinking decision.

1. Improving Response Times and Accessibility

One of the most immediate benefits of hiring local electricians is their proximity. When electrical issues arise, timing matters. Whether it's a sudden outage or a system malfunction, delays can disrupt daily operations and create safety concerns.

Local professionals can respond faster because they are already established within the community. Their shorter travel distances allow for quicker arrival times, reducing downtime and helping restore normal conditions sooner. This accessibility also improves scheduling flexibility. Instead of waiting days for availability, working with local electricians often leads to more efficient timelines and smoother project coordination. Prompt responses can prevent minor issues from turning into major complications.

2. Supporting Safety and Code Compliance

Electrical work involves complex systems that require strict adherence to safety standards. Hiring trained professionals is critical for maintaining safe conditions and meeting regulatory requirements. Without proper guidance, projects can face compliance challenges or safety risks.

Local electricians bring familiarity with regional codes and compliance standards. This localized knowledge is essential because electrical regulations can vary by area. Professionals who regularly work within the same jurisdiction are better equipped to align projects with these requirements, reducing the likelihood of costly corrections or delays.

In addition, working with qualified electricians helps reduce risks such as electrical fires, improper wiring, and system failures. Proper handling of circuits, connections, and load requirements is fundamental to maintaining a safe environment. Their experience also allows them to recognize hidden issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.

3. Strengthening Long-Term Cost Efficiency

Hiring local electricians can contribute to better cost control over time. While upfront pricing is always a consideration, long-term value often matters more. Investing in professional services early can save significant expenses later.

Professionals who complete work accurately the first time help prevent recurring issues and expensive repairs. Additionally, local professionals often maintain relationships with nearby suppliers, which can help streamline material sourcing and reduce overall project costs.

Another advantage lies in preventative insight. By identifying potential issues early, local electricians can help avoid larger system failures that would require more extensive repairs later. This proactive approach supports both financial planning and system reliability. Their ability to anticipate problems can also prevent unnecessary downtime and disruption.

4. Enhancing Communication and Accountability

Clear communication is essential in any service-based project. Working with local electricians often leads to more direct and consistent interaction throughout the process. Good communication also fosters confidence and clarity for property owners.

Local professionals typically operate within smaller service areas, allowing for more personalized communication. This can include clearer timelines, better updates, and more responsive follow-ups. Because their reputation is closely tied to the community, accountability tends to be higher, which contributes to more consistent service experiences.

This level of communication helps minimize misunderstandings and keeps projects aligned with expectations from start to finish. Working locally also allows for easier in-person consultations if needed.

5. Leveraging Local Knowledge and Experience

Every region has unique infrastructure characteristics, from older wiring systems to newer developments with modern electrical demands. Local electricians bring experience that reflects these conditions. Their familiarity can reduce project delays and improve overall outcomes.

Their familiarity with local construction styles, weather-related factors, and common system issues allows for more informed decision-making. This insight can be especially valuable when addressing recurring electrical concerns or planning upgrades that align with regional requirements.

By working with local electricians, property owners benefit from practical knowledge that extends beyond general training, resulting in more efficient and effective outcomes. Local insight also helps identify solutions that are tailored to specific neighborhood characteristics.

6. Building Reliable Community Connections

Hiring local electricians also contributes to strengthening local economies and professional networks. Local businesses often prioritize community relationships, which benefits clients through higher service standards.

Because their business depends on local reputation and repeat relationships, there is a strong incentive to maintain high standards. This community-driven approach often results in more consistent service quality and a greater focus on long-term relationships.

In addition, local networks can help streamline projects by connecting clients with other reputable professionals when needed, improving overall project coordination. These connections can also provide support in case of emergencies or urgent needs.

7. Increasing Project Efficiency and Reliability

Efficiency plays a significant role in any electrical project, whether large or small. Working with local electricians helps reduce delays and improve workflow consistency. Streamlined execution saves both time and costs.

Their familiarity with local permitting processes, inspection requirements, and scheduling logistics allows for smoother project execution. This reduces administrative friction and helps keep timelines on track.

Professionals with strong regional experience are also better equipped to troubleshoot issues quickly. Their ability to diagnose and resolve problems efficiently minimizes disruptions and contributes to more reliable outcomes. Consistent attention to detail ensures that projects run more smoothly.

8. Adapting to Growing Industry Demand

The demand for electrical professionals continues to rise, reflecting the increasing complexity of modern systems and infrastructure. According to NTITraining.com, the electrician job outlook continues to grow nationwide, with the expected growth being up 9% from 2024 to 2034. This demonstrates the importance of working with professionals who are actively engaged in the field and up-to-date with current practices.

This growth highlights the importance of working with qualified professionals who are actively engaged in the industry. Choosing local electricians allows property owners to access skilled professionals who are keeping pace with evolving standards and technologies. Their ongoing engagement ensures that projects reflect current best practices.

9. Prioritizing Professional Support Over Shortcuts

Electrical work is not an area where shortcuts are practical. The complexity and risks involved require trained professionals who understand system behavior, safety protocols, and regulatory requirements. Prioritizing professional assistance reduces risk and improves long-term performance.

Seeking professional help from local electricians supports better outcomes across the board. From initial assessments to final execution, working with experienced professionals helps reduce risks and improve overall project quality. This approach also provides peace of mind, knowing that systems are handled correctly and aligned with current standards. Proper support contributes to smoother operations and fewer unexpected issues.

10. Strengthening Property Value and Performance

Electrical systems play a critical role in the overall performance and value of a property. Well-maintained systems contribute to efficiency, safety, and long-term usability. Regular maintenance and professional guidance can enhance reliability.

Working with local electricians supports these outcomes by providing consistent maintenance, accurate installations, and reliable system upgrades. Properly managed electrical infrastructure can also enhance property appeal and reduce future complications.

Whether for residential or commercial properties, professional electrical work is a key component of long-term value. Investing in quality services now helps protect property investments in the future.

Hiring local electricians offers a combination of practical advantages, from faster response times and improved communication to stronger cost control and regional expertise. Their familiarity with local codes, infrastructure, and community expectations positions them as a reliable choice for maintaining and improving electrical systems.

As demand for electrical services continues to grow, working with professionals who understand your area becomes increasingly important. Choosing local electricians supports safer, more efficient, and more dependable outcomes across every stage of a project. Connect with experienced local electricians at Bridgetown Electric today to schedule professional electrical support tailored to your needs!

10 Reasons to Hire Local Electricians Today

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 15:09:09 GMT

When it comes to maintaining, repairing, or upgrading your home’s electrical system, choosing the right professionals makes all the difference. Electrical work is highly specialized, involves serious safety risks, and affects nearly every function of your home. While some homeowners consider tackling small electrical tasks themselves or hiring low cost contractors, there are significant advantages to working with trained and experienced professionals in your community. That is why hiring local electricians is one of the best decisions you can make for your home. According to NTITraining.com, the electrician job outlook continues to grow nationwide, with the expected growth being up 9 percent from 2024 to 2034. With growing demand and increasingly complex electrical systems, working with skilled local experts ensures safety, reliability, and long lasting results. Below are several compelling reasons to hire local electricians today.

1. Understanding Local Codes and Compliance Requirements

One of the strongest reasons to hire local electricians is their familiarity with your area’s building codes, permit requirements, and inspection processes. Electrical work is heavily regulated to protect public safety, and even minor mistakes can result in code violations or fire hazards. Local professionals know the regional standards and stay updated with any changes that affect residential electrical systems.

This expertise minimizes the risk of failed inspections and saves homeowners from expensive rework. Local electricians also understand the specific requirements for older homes, new construction, renovations, and system upgrades. Their in depth knowledge ensures that each repair or installation is performed correctly and legally, giving you confidence and peace of mind that your home meets all safety guidelines.

2. Delivering Faster Response Times and Greater Availability

Unlike national companies or long distance contractors, local electricians can respond more quickly when problems arise. Electrical issues often require urgent attention, and delays can compromise safety or result in costly damage. Whether you experience a sudden power outage, burning smell, flickering lights, or a malfunctioning panel, local professionals are nearby and able to provide timely assistance.

Their proximity also makes scheduling easier and more flexible. Instead of waiting days for an appointment, homeowners often benefit from same day or next day service. By choosing local electricians, you ensure that help is available when you need it most. Quick, efficient service reduces downtime, protects your property, and restores comfort to your home much sooner.

3. Providing Personalized Customer Service and Long Term Support

Local electricians take pride in building relationships within their community. Unlike larger companies with high turnover and generic service models, local professionals tend to prioritize personalized attention and customer satisfaction. They understand the value of repeat business and word of mouth recommendations, so they make every effort to deliver exceptional service.

This dedication translates into clearer communication, more accurate assessments, and honest recommendations. Local electricians are invested in your long term safety and satisfaction, so they are less likely to upsell unnecessary services or cut corners. You can expect ongoing support when future questions arise or when you're considering new electrical projects.

4. Offering Extensive Knowledge of Regional Electrical Challenges

Every region has unique environmental conditions and housing characteristics that affect electrical systems. Local electricians have firsthand experience addressing common issues in your area, whether they relate to climate, soil conditions, aging home infrastructure, or utility company limitations.

For example, certain neighborhoods may have outdated wiring, increased moisture exposure, voltage fluctuations, or overloaded circuits due to older electrical panels. Local professionals understand these patterns and can identify root causes more efficiently than someone unfamiliar with the region. Their specialized knowledge helps prevent recurring problems and ensures repairs are tailored to your home’s specific needs.

5. Ensuring Safety for Your Family and Property

Electrical work can be extremely dangerous when performed improperly. Faulty wiring, exposed connections, overloaded circuits, and poor grounding can all lead to fires, electrocution, or equipment damage. Local electricians have the training, hands on experience, and safety certifications needed to minimize these risks.

Because they work in your community, they adhere to high standards of professionalism and accountability. Hiring qualified local electricians ensures that each repair and installation is done safely and thoroughly. Their expertise also protects your expensive appliances, smart home systems, and electrical equipment from damage caused by incorrect installations or neglected hazards.

6. Enhancing Energy Efficiency and System Performance

Modern electrical systems are far more advanced than they were just a decade ago. From LED lighting and smart thermostats to energy efficient appliances and upgraded wiring, homeowners have more opportunities than ever to reduce energy consumption. Local electricians understand how to evaluate your home’s energy usage and recommend improvements that boost efficiency.

These upgrades not only lower your utility bills, but also improve the performance and longevity of your electrical system. Whether you're installing new circuits, replacing outdated panels, or optimizing lighting layouts, local experts offer personalized solutions for your home. Their guidance helps you make informed decisions about energy saving options that fit your goals and budget.

7. Supporting Local Businesses and Strengthening Your Community

Hiring local electricians means investing in local businesses. This keeps resources within your community and contributes to economic growth. When local companies thrive, they create jobs, improve service offerings, and maintain strong reputations through community support.

Residents who choose local electricians benefit from a more collaborative and mutually supportive relationship. You are more than just a customer; you become part of a community network built on trust and service. Supporting local businesses also encourages higher standards, because satisfied customers directly influence the company’s success through positive reviews and referrals.

8. Providing Transparent Pricing and Honest Assessments

Many homeowners worry about hidden fees or inflated charges when hiring contractors. Local electricians typically offer more transparent pricing because they depend on trust and repeat customers. They are more likely to provide detailed estimates, explain cost differences between repair options, and ensure you fully understand the scope of work before starting.

Their honesty helps you avoid unnecessary spending and ensures your project stays within budget. Because they value your business, local professionals are committed to offering fair, accurate assessments. This level of transparency builds confidence and makes the entire repair or installation process more comfortable and predictable for homeowners.

9. Offering Specialized Skills and Advanced Training

Electrical systems today include smart home integrations, electric vehicle chargers, energy efficient lighting systems, surge protection equipment, and advanced circuit configurations. Local electricians stay up to date with evolving technologies and undergo regular training to keep their skills current.

Their advanced knowledge allows them to handle complex installations, troubleshoot challenging problems, and maintain a high level of expertise in the field. Local electricians who invest in continuing education demonstrate a commitment to quality and industry leadership. Their technical proficiency ensures your home benefits from modern solutions and long lasting results.

10. Delivering Reliable Work Backed by Reputation and Accountability

Local companies rely heavily on their reputation. Because they live and work in your area, they are held accountable by the community they serve. This motivates them to deliver reliable, high quality work on every project.

Local electricians understand that customer satisfaction directly influences their long term success. They take pride in completing projects correctly the first time, honoring warranties, and offering dependable support long after the job is finished. This level of accountability sets them apart from contractors who may not have the same ties to your community.

Hiring local electricians is one of the smartest decisions you can make when maintaining or upgrading your home. Their knowledge of regional challenges, commitment to safety, personalized customer service, transparent pricing, and quick response times make them invaluable partners for any homeowner. With electrical systems becoming increasingly complex and demand for skilled professionals growing rapidly, having trustworthy experts in your area gives you greater peace of mind. Whether you need a repair, installation, or full system upgrade, choosing local electricians ensures high quality results and long term reliability. If you're ready to enhance the safety and performance of your home, contact Bridgetown Electric today to schedule your next service and experience the difference that true local expertise can make.

5 Tips to Improve the Efficiency of your AC Unit

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 16:10:00 GMT

Extreme Heat can be a challenge to your AC unit. Here are 5 tips to help beat the heat.

Courtesy of NPR

These extreme temperatures present a significant challenge to AC systems, which engineers and installers say are really only designed to keep indoor temperatures about 20 degrees cooler than outside.

"Most new systems in the U.S. are designed for a 95 degree day. That's a hot day, but we're having more and more of those days," says Srinivas Garimella, a professor of mechanical engineering at Georgia Tech.

Under these conditions, "your efficiency drops and you actually lose a little capacity, which means the unit is going to run non-stop," according to James Barry, who owns Doctor Cool & Professor Heat, a company in League City, a suburb of Houston.

All air conditioners work the same

Garimella explains that all air conditioners work on the same basic principle — a cold, low-pressure refrigerant evaporates and absorbs heat from a room and then is compressed before condensing and releasing the heat by way of an outdoor heat exchanger. The refrigerant is then recycled in a closed loop.

He compares the energy required to do this to climbing a mountain. The hotter the outdoor temperature, the more effort (and energy) needed to make the climb. "So, the higher the ambient temperature, the more the compressor has to work, the more electricity [is] needed, and the problem just keeps getting compounded," he says.

Compressors work less efficiently at higher heat, which means they need more power to do the job. Higher humidity also places "a humongous additional load" on an air conditioning system, he says.

Simply installing a bigger air conditioner might sound like a solution to the problem. Not so, according to Reinhard Radermacher, a professor of mechanical engineering at the University of Maryland.

It may be fine on the hottest days, but "if 90% of the time [an air conditioner] is oversized," it's not efficient, he says.

Getting the most out of your air conditioner

Even so, there are some things you can do to maximize your air conditioner's effectiveness even as it struggles to keep things cool.

Don't fool with the thermostat. Set it at a desired, comfortable temperature — say, 72 degrees F — and leave it alone. "If you keep it at a low level just running all the time, it is far more efficient" than throttling the thermostat, according to Garimella.

Clean filters and the coils on the outdoor heat exchanger. Dirty filters impede air flow, and dusty coils make it harder for the heat exchanger to work efficiently. "A lot of people do not maintain their basic unit. If you can keep a real good clean outdoor coil, it definitely helps the air conditioner remove the heat," Barry says.

Turn off heat-producing appliances. "During the hottest part of the day, turn off anything that produces heat such as stoves, dishwashers, lights, etc.," according to Fritts, a heating and air conditioning company based in Georgia.

Run a ceiling fan. "The sensation of comfort comes from [both] the temperature of the air and the breeze that's blowing at you." A ceiling fan definitely helps, Garimella says.

Cool down at night and shade the windows. "Cool down the house at night as much as possible. And then when the sun comes up in the next morning, shade all windows [and] keep the windows and doors closed as much as possible," according to Radermacher.

Also, variable-speed compressors, which are found only in more expensive ACs, work more efficiently than single-speed compressors, Garimella says.

Systems with variable-speed compressors "will only function at the capacity that is needed for the house. And that makes a very big difference in its efficiency and its capability to keep up with the load," he says.

What about new air conditioning technologies? There's "no silver bullet" on the horizon, Radermacher says. "There's a bunch of new technologies under way, but they all have to follow the same dynamics" as current air conditioning systems, he says.

Stay cool, friends!

Are you ready for an Electric Vehicle Charger?

Mon, 08 May 2023 18:05:00 GMT

Electric Vehicles are becoming more common. Here is some helpful information if you're thinking about purchasing an electric vehicle.

Electric vehicle charging 101

There are three main types of chargers that you will encounter: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 (also called DC Fast Charging):

Level 1 charging uses a standard 120V outlet that you are likely to find in your garage. This is the slowest type of charging and will add an average of 5 miles per hour of charge. Also called “trickle charging,” this type of charging is not offered commercially and is typically only used at home.

Level 2 charging requires a 240V outlet. These chargers can be installed in your home with a basic electrical upgrade and are very commonly used for public chargers. Level 2 chargers add 20 to 60 miles per hour of charge.

Level 3 chargers, or DC Fast Chargers, are only used in commercial settings. These chargers are most often found along highways since they provide 60 to 100 miles per 20 minutes of charge. For example, the West Coast Electric Highway project is working to install DC Fast Chargers every 25 to 50 miles from the British Columbia to the Mexico border.

If you’re able to charge at home, a Level 2 charger is likely the easiest and most affordable option.

If you live in a home with a garage or driveway you can charge your EV using a standard wall outlet, also known as Level 1 charging. This is a good option if you typically charge your EV overnight. You can also install a Level 2 charger for your personal use, which will charge your EV in a few hours. Level 2 chargers use 240 volts of electricity, which is similar to a standard electric dryer or oven and sometimes requires a simple electrical upgrade to your home. Before going forward with the electrical upgrade required for a Level 2 charger, an electrical permit from the Bureau of Development Services is required.

Don’t forget to check for incentives or rebates – as of January 2023, Portland General Electric and Pacific Power customers are eligible for a rebate of up to $1,000 for installing an EV charger in their home. Additionally, the Inflation Reduction Act extended the federal tax credit on charging equipment through 2032, which covers up to 30% of sales price up to $1,000.

To support residents who want to transition to an EV but do not have a garage or driveway, the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) has amended the Encroachment Manual to allow residents to run a Level 1 (110 volt) charging cord from their house and across the sidewalk to charge their EV at the curb, provided that their residence meets the specifications listed below in the cord cover allowance section.

Individual residents and businesses are prohibited from installing EV chargers in the public right-of-way. Given a variety of concerns - including health, life, and safety issues, liability concerns, state utility requirements, and more - this means Portlanders are prohibited from installing a Level 2 or DC fast charger curbside in front of their home or business. There are no exceptions to this and no process for appeals. Additionally, no public parking spaces are allowed to be reserved by private citizens for the purpose of EV charging, including for the cord cover allowance.

If you are looking to add a car charger receptacle, we recommend your electrical service be at least 200 amps. You will also need to meet the following criteria in order to complete the install.

A 40 amp circuit is required for the charger on a 2 pole breaker
A service of 200 amps is recommended for level 2 EV charger
In order to be eligible for PGE rebates , the charger must be hardwired.
Older panels with space will work but availability of breakers can drive needs
Panels older than 30 years will most likely lead to an upgrade. PGE has rebates available if your panel needs to be upgraded as well. Bridgetown Electric offers flat rate pricing for Service Upgrades.
Bridgetown Electric offers flat rate pricing for the installation of Level 2 vehicle chargers!

There are many incentives and rebates available in Oregon to go electric. Click the link to find out more.

Are you ready for a Generator?

Mon, 08 May 2023 16:40:00 GMT

There are a few requirements needed to complete the install of a generator ready system for your home. These items are things to consider prior to the installation of a new generator.

A permanently installed home backup generator protects your home automatically. It runs on natural gas or liquid propane (LP) fuel, and sits outside just like a central air conditioning unit. A home backup generator delivers power directly to your home’s electrical system, backing up your entire home or just the most essential items. You'll never have to run an extension cord through a window or door again. A home backup generator safely delivers power right to your home's electrical panel. However, with that, your electrical panel needs to meet some basic criteria.

Most main breaker electrical panels (brands Siemens, Eaton, Square D Homeline, Cutler Hammer, GE, and Bryant ) installed within the last 20 -30 years are ready to have the proper breaker and interlock kit installed, which shuts off your connection to the grid while the generator is in use. These kits are not compliant with split bus panels, which were common prior to the 1990’s.

We recommend a minimum of 5,000 - 7,500 KW Generator. A portable generator could supply power to some lights, your refrigerator, and maybe an additional appliance, but a standby generator will power your whole home during an outage.

In order to determine if you are ready for a new generator to be installed, you must consider the following criteria:

A panel that is 20 years old or newer
Siemens / Eaton / Square D Homeline / Cutler Hammer / GE / Bryant
Your panel is not a split bus panel
Must be main breaker panel
Ability to install/available space for new two pole breaker at top

If your current panel does not meet these criteria, you may need to complete a panel change, or a service upgrade based on your needs. Bridgetown Electric has flat rate pricing for those services if needed.

Bridgetown Electric is an authorized Generac dealer, which is the #1 selling brand of backup Generators. Please reach out to us if you have any additional questions.

If you do meet these requirements, we would need some information from you to complete the install, such as Generator size / KW / and Plug configuration. We would also need a picture of your panel to verify what interlock kit would work for your panel. Interlock kits are specific to each brand of panel, and can take some time to source.