Get it fixed

Electrical Problems: Get It Fixed

Something not working right? Find your problem below. Each page explains what it usually means, what’s safe for you to check, what to leave alone, and when to call. We answer (530) 401-7419 24/7.

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5.0 on Google · 108 reviewsLicensed C‑10 #1081222Free estimatesAnswered 24/7Family-run in Auburn

When something electrical goes wrong, you want to know two things: is it dangerous, and who fixes it? These pages answer both in plain English, using guidance from electrical safety groups and PG&E. If you’d rather just talk to someone, call us. We’re glad to help you figure it out over the phone.

Burning smell, or something hot to the touch? Start here: what to do right now. If there’s smoke or fire, call 911.

Find your problem

Three safe things to check first

  1. 1
    Unplug, then reset a tripped breaker once

    Turn off or unplug what was running. A tripped breaker sits at OFF or in the middle. Push it all the way OFF, then ON (ESFi, ESFi). If it trips again, leave it off and call.

  2. 2
    Press RESET on your GFCI outlets

    One GFCI can shut off other outlets downstream, even in another room (CPSC). Check bathrooms, the kitchen, garage, laundry and outside.

  3. 3
    Ask a neighbor

    If they have the same problem, or lights are oddly bright or dim all over your house, it may be PG&E’s side. Report it at 1-877-660-6789 (PG&E).

What to leave alone

  • The panel cover, the meter, and the wires coming to your house. Parts stay live even with breakers off.
  • A breaker that keeps tripping. Frequent trips mean a problem that a qualified electrician should check (ESFi).
  • Anything hot, discolored, buzzing, crackling or smelling burnt. These are warning signs (ESFi, NFPA).

How IES helps

  • We answer 24/7Call (530) 401-7419 any time. Tell us what’s happening and we’ll help you make it safe and figure out next steps.
  • Free estimatesEstimates are free and there’s no pressure. We explain what we found and your options in plain words.
  • Panel change-outs, start to finishIf your panel needs replacing, we handle the permit, the inspection and PG&E’s disconnect and reconnect. You just say yes.
  • Licensed and family-runCalifornia C‑10 electrical contractor #1081222, based in Auburn.

Common questions

Is it okay to reset a tripped breaker?

Usually, yes, once. Turn off or unplug what was running on that circuit, push the breaker handle all the way to OFF, then back to ON. If it trips again, leave it off and call an electrician. A breaker that trips over and over is telling you something is wrong.

When is an electrical problem an emergency?

Smoke, fire, sparks, or a burning smell you can’t explain. Get everyone out and call 911. If you smell gas or see a downed power line, stay away and call 911, then PG&E. For a hot outlet, a buzzing panel or half the house without power, stop using what’s affected and call us.

Should I call PG&E or an electrician?

PG&E takes care of the lines that bring power to your home and the meter. Breakers, the panel and the wiring inside are the home’s side. If your neighbors are out too, or lights are oddly bright or dim all over the house, call PG&E first. Otherwise, call us, and if it turns out to be PG&E’s side, we’ll tell you.

Do you give free estimates?

Yes, estimates are free. If you need someone to come troubleshoot, ask when you call and we’ll explain how the visit works and what it costs before anyone comes out.

Do you answer at night and on weekends?

Yes. We answer (530) 401-7419 24/7.

Request a free estimate

Free estimates, no pressure. Tell us a little about the job and we’ll get back to you. Or call (530) 401-7419, answered 24/7.

Name, a short description, and a phone number or email, please. We only use them to reply to you.

Use the full form

Sources

General safety information for homes, checked against the sources above in November 2026. Every home is different and this is not a substitute for an on-site look by a licensed electrician. Never work inside a panel, at the meter or on live wiring. In an emergency, call 911.