Today I spoke with Lloyd’s Electric Service’s Terry McCoy, Electrical Estimate Specialist, about his job and what he wants to share with our readers.

Terry, What are some tips you would offer homeowners seeking estimates for their projects?

Terry McCoy: Really know what you want to do. Have a really good idea of what you would like to do and be able to articulate it as clearly as possible. Provide pictures if you’re going for a specific look. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Questions help me to help you. Even if you feel like it’s a ridiculous question, I’ll give you an answer. The more information the client gives me, the better I can do for them. I’m here to help!

Q: What do you wish your industrial and commercial clients knew?

TM: I’d say it’s the same thing I’d like all of our clients and potential clients to know. We’re there to work with you and come up with the most effective solution for whatever you need to have done. And we’re there after the fact as well. We’re interested in building long-term relationships. We want to be that one number you call because you know you really can rely on us.

Q: What are some warning signs and symptoms that it’s time to call a professional electrician?

TM: Lights that are randomly flickering or dimming in your house for no reason could mean an issue in the breaker panel, meter, or a juncture box inside the house. However, if you know for a fact the lights are only dimming when the HVAC unit kicks on that’s usually not a problem.

A quick rundown on a few other things – hearing crackling in light switches or receptacles that won’t hold plugs could mean there is danger of arcing (when sparks jump from wire to wire), any burning or electrical smells that you notice – these are issues that could lead to a serious fire hazard and need to be addressed quickly before they become a bigger problem.

Q: Terry, Thanks for taking the time to talk with me today. Is there anything else you would like to add?

TM: Well, I think I said it before but, we’re here to help! In my department, I’m here to listen and to help you achieve what you want to do. I’m not going to come in and tell you what to do. We’ll go over options together to figure out what will work for you whether it be a matter of cost or anything else. I will look at your situation with you and find the best solution for you.