Best Electrician in Scranton for Your Next Electrical Job

Best Electrician Scranton: Expert electrical services for residential and commercial needs.

Few things are as critical to the safety and functionality of your home or business as a reliable electrical system. When a light flickers, an outlet fizzles, or you’re planning a major renovation, the question quickly becomes: who is the best electrician in Scranton to call? It's more than just finding someone who can twist wires; it’s about securing peace of mind, ensuring safety, and getting a job done right the first time.
Navigating the world of electrical contractors can feel daunting, but it doesn't have to be. As an expert in home and business services, I’m here to arm you with the knowledge and confidence to make an informed decision for your next electrical project, big or small.

At a Glance: Finding Your Scranton Electrician

Safety First: Electrical work is not DIY; licensed professionals are essential to prevent hazards.
Check Credentials: Always verify an electrician’s license and insurance (general liability and worker’s comp).
Get Multiple Quotes: Don't settle for the first offer. Compare detailed estimates from 2-3 contractors.
Specialization Matters: Ensure the electrician's expertise matches your specific project (e.g., EV charging, panel upgrade, new construction).
Permits Are Key: Many electrical jobs in Scranton require permits from the local building department. Your electrician should handle this.
Look for Warranties: Reputable electricians stand behind their work with a warranty on parts and labor.
Trust Your Gut: Professionalism, clear communication, and transparency are non-negotiable.

Why Electrical Work Demands a Pro (It's Not a DIY Project)

Let’s be honest: YouTube is great for many things, but electrical repairs are rarely one of them. Electricity is powerful, complex, and potentially lethal if mishandled. A seemingly minor wiring mistake can lead to serious consequences, from frequent circuit trips and damaged appliances to devastating electrical fires or life-threatening shocks.
Licensed electricians spend years in training, apprenticeships, and continuing education to understand the intricate National Electrical Code (NEC) and local Scranton building codes. They have the specialized tools, diagnostic equipment, and problem-solving skills to safely and efficiently address any electrical challenge. Investing in a qualified professional isn't just a cost; it's an investment in your safety and the longevity of your property.

Urgent Signals: When to Call an Electrician Immediately

Your electrical system often gives warning signs before a major failure. Ignoring these can be dangerous. If you notice any of the following, don't delay – contact a Scranton electrician right away:

Flickering Lights: Especially if it's widespread or occurs when you use specific appliances, this can indicate overloaded circuits or loose wiring.
Burning Smell: A distinct burning odor near outlets or your electrical panel is a critical warning sign of overheating wires.
Frequent Tripping Breakers: While an occasional trip is normal, consistent tripping suggests an overloaded circuit, a short, or a faulty breaker.
Buzzing or Humming from the Panel: Your electrical panel should operate quietly. Unusual noises can signal loose connections or a failing breaker.
Scorch Marks or Discoloration: Any signs of heat or charring around outlets, switches, or the electrical panel are serious red flags.
Warm Outlets or Switches: If an outlet or switch feels warm to the touch, it indicates overheating and potential fire risk.
These aren't issues to put off. Prompt action by a qualified professional can prevent minor problems from escalating into major hazards.

Understanding the Scope: What Electrical Services Encompass

A good electrician does far more than just "fix wires." They are skilled technicians who handle a wide array of services for both residential and commercial properties. Here’s a breakdown of common services you might need in Scranton:

For Your Home

Panel Upgrades and Replacements: Essential for older homes with outdated fuse boxes or panels that can't handle modern power demands. Leber Electric Inc. specializes in panel upgrades, as does Quality Electric.
Rewiring Services: Crucial for older homes with knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring, which can pose significant fire risks. Leber Electric Inc. and Rinker Inc. handle complete rewiring and new home wiring respectively.
Lighting Installation: From recessed lighting and ceiling fans (installation typically $150–$900) to custom lighting design, enhancing aesthetics and functionality. Quality Electric excels in custom lighting design.
Outlet and Switch Installation/Repair: Adding new outlets, moving existing ones, or repairing non-functioning switches (typically $100–$500 per unit).
Generator Installation and Service: Providing backup power for outages. Baldoni Electric, Inc., Philip Michael LLC, and Rinker Inc. are all equipped to install and service generators, with Rinker specializing in Generac and Kohler brands.
EV Charging Station Installation: As electric vehicles become more common, dedicated charging ports are a growing need. Baldoni Electric, Inc. and Philip Michael LLC offer these installations.
Safety Upgrades: Smoke and carbon monoxide detector installation, surge protection (Burti Electrical Services LLC offers this), and ensuring code compliance (FA Electric is an expert here).
Smart Home Integration: Wiring for whole-home audio (Baldoni Electric, Inc. offers this), smart lighting, and other connected devices.

For Your Business or Industrial Property

New Construction & Renovation Wiring: Designing and installing complete electrical systems for new builds or major overhauls. Baldoni Electric, Inc., Leber Electric Inc., and Rinker Inc. all have extensive experience in this area.
Commercial Lighting Solutions: Parking lot lighting (Baldoni Electric, Inc.), LED retrofits (Burti Electrical Services LLC), and interior illumination for efficiency and aesthetics.
Security System Integration: Wiring for office security cameras (Baldoni Electric, Inc.) and other surveillance systems.
Three-Phase Power: Essential for many industrial and heavy commercial applications, a specialty of Burti Electrical Services LLC.
Transformer Wiring and Signage: Specific commercial needs handled by experienced professionals like Burti Electrical Services LLC.
Code Compliance: Ensuring your business meets all local and federal electrical codes, a core service for FA Electric.
Routine Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Preventing downtime and addressing issues quickly.

Spotlight: Trusted Electricians Serving Scranton

Scranton is home to a number of reputable electrical contractors, many with decades of experience serving the community. While "best" can be subjective and depend on your specific needs, here are some highly regarded local options based on their reported specialties and histories:

Baldoni Electric, Inc. (Blakely): A seasoned company serving Scranton since 1979, Baldoni Electric offers a comprehensive range of services for commercial, industrial, and residential clients. They are a go-to for EV charging stations, standby generators, office security cameras, parking lot lighting, whole-home audio, new construction, and renovations. Their extensive history speaks to their reliability across diverse projects.
Quality Electric (Scranton): Founded in 2003 by Dale Newman, Quality Electric boasts a team of expert electricians dedicated to Scranton residents and businesses. Their services span residential and commercial needs, including telephone and TV wiring, hot tub installations, smoke detection, panel replacement, and custom lighting design. They're a strong choice for both everyday needs and bespoke design projects.
FA Electric (Metro Scranton): With 11 years in the metro Scranton area, FA Electric is a licensed and insured operation led by US Army veteran Frank Atherholt. They provide essential services like wiring, lighting, panel upgrades, code compliance, and troubleshooting. Being a member of the Home Builders Association of NEPA further underscores their commitment to industry standards and quality.
Burti Electrical Services LLC (Scranton): A true family legacy, Burti Electrical Services brings seven decades of experience to Scranton. Their certified NEPA electricians handle residential work such as service upgrades, surge protection, and fuse box replacements. For commercial clients, they tackle transformer wiring, signage, three-phase systems, and LED lighting retrofits, showcasing a deep and broad expertise.
Philip Michael LLC (Scranton): As a licensed electrical contractor, Philip Michael LLC offers a wide range of electrical and lighting services in Scranton. They're adept at installing, repairing, and upgrading both older and contemporary electrical systems, including modern solutions like electric vehicle charging ports, solar power systems, and generators. This firm is well-suited for those looking for cutting-edge electrical solutions.
Leber Electric Inc. (Scranton): Another family-owned business with over 60 years of operation, Leber Electric Inc. serves industrial, commercial, and residential properties throughout Scranton. Their expertise includes panel upgrades, ground-up construction, complete rewiring, design recommendations, and thorough troubleshooting, making them a versatile and experienced choice for complex projects.
Rinker Inc. (Scranton): Having served Scranton for over three decades, Rinker Inc. brings significant experience to the table. Their team specializes in electrical repairs and troubleshooting, major service upgrades, and wiring repairs and installations for new homes or renovations. They also expertly install and service generators from trusted brands like Generac and Kohler, ensuring reliable backup power.
When considering these companies, remember to align their specific strengths with the unique demands of your project.

How to Choose the Right Electrician in Scranton: Your Decision Framework

Finding the best fit isn't about picking a name from a hat. It's about a systematic approach that prioritizes safety, expertise, and value.

Step 1: Verify Credentials – License and Insurance are Non-Negotiable

This is your absolute first filter. Any electrician you consider MUST be:

Licensed: In Pennsylvania, electricians need to be licensed. Always ask for their license number and verify it on the state's licensing board website. A license indicates they have met the necessary training, testing, and experience requirements.
Insured: They must carry general liability insurance to protect you from costs associated with property damage or injuries that might occur during the job. Equally important, ensure they have worker’s compensation insurance if they have employees. This protects you from being held liable if an employee is injured on your property. Ask for a current copy of both certificates.
Pro Tip: Don’t just take their word for it. Call the insurance provider directly to confirm the policy is active and covers the scope of your project.

Step 2: Experience and Specialization – Matching the Pro to the Project

Electrical work isn't one-size-fits-all. A residential specialist might not be the ideal choice for a complex industrial installation, and vice-versa.

Ask about their experience with YOUR specific project: If you need an EV charger, ask how many they've installed. If it's a panel upgrade, inquire about their recent projects of that nature.
Longevity in the business matters: Companies like Baldoni Electric, Leber Electric Inc., and Burti Electrical Services LLC, with decades of service in Scranton, often bring a wealth of institutional knowledge and a proven track record.
Don't overlook newer specialists: Firms like Philip Michael LLC, while potentially younger, may have cutting-edge expertise in solar or smart home systems.

Step 3: Get Multiple Detailed Quotes – Beyond Just the Price Tag

Price is important, but it shouldn’t be your only criterion. Always get at least two, preferably three, detailed estimates.

What to look for in a quote: It should clearly itemize materials, labor, and any permit fees. Avoid vague estimates. FA Electric emphasizes code compliance and troubleshooting, which can be critical elements in a comprehensive quote.
Understand hourly vs. flat rates: Some jobs are billed hourly (typically $50–$100 in our region), while others are flat-rate. For something like installing an outlet (1-2 hours, $100–$500), an hourly rate might be fine, but for a whole-house rewiring (days to weeks, $6,000–$12,000), a clear project-based quote is essential.
Beware of significantly low bids: While tempting, a price dramatically lower than others could signal cut corners, lack of insurance, or hidden fees.

Step 4: Check Reviews and References – What Others Are Saying

The internet makes it easier than ever to gauge a company's reputation.

Online reviews: Check Google, Yelp, and trade-specific sites. Look for patterns in feedback – positive comments about professionalism, promptness, and quality, or negative remarks about hidden costs, missed deadlines, or poor communication.
Ask for references: A reputable electrician should be happy to provide contact information for past clients with similar projects. Contact these references and ask about their experience, particularly regarding communication, adherence to budget, and satisfaction with the work.

Step 5: Understand Warranties and Guarantees – Protection for Your Investment

A confident electrician stands behind their work. Inquire about their warranty on both parts and labor.

Standard warranties: Electrical work typically comes with a warranty of 1–5 years covering defects in workmanship and materials. Make sure this is clearly stated in your contract.
What happens if there's a problem? Ask about their follow-up policy and how they handle any issues that arise after the job is completed.

Step 6: Communication and Professionalism – Trust Your Instincts

From your initial contact to the final walkthrough, assess their professionalism.

Responsiveness: Do they answer calls or emails promptly?
Clarity: Do they explain the problem and solution in a way you understand, avoiding overly technical jargon?
Punctuality: Do they show up on time for appointments?
Respect: Do they respect your property, clean up after themselves, and treat you courteously?
These softer skills are often indicators of a well-run business and a positive working relationship.

Demystifying Electrical Costs: What to Expect Financially

Electrical work can range from quick fixes to extensive overhauls, and so do the costs. Understanding the factors involved can help you budget and avoid sticker shock.

National Average Cost Ranges (for reference):

Installing a new outlet or switch: $100–$500
Repairing a circuit breaker panel: $200–$1,000
Replacing or upgrading a circuit breaker: $500–$2,000
Whole-house rewiring: $6,000–$12,000
Installing a ceiling fan or light fixture: $150–$900

Key Factors Influencing Your Bill:

Complexity of the Job: A simple outlet repair (1-2 hours) is vastly different from an electrical panel upgrade (1-2 days) or a complete home rewiring (several days to weeks).
Materials Used: High-quality, specialized, or custom materials will increase costs.
Labor Rates: Hourly rates for electricians in the Scranton area typically fall between $50–$100. More experienced or specialized electricians may command higher rates.
Permit Fees: For jobs requiring permits (see below), these fees will be added to your total.
Emergency vs. Scheduled Work: Emergency calls outside of normal business hours will almost always incur higher charges.
Accessibility: If the electrical components are difficult to access (e.g., behind finished walls, in tight crawl spaces), it can increase labor time.
Always insist on a detailed estimate before any work begins. This document should break down labor, materials, and any other associated costs, ensuring transparency and preventing unpleasant surprises.

The Permitting Process in Scranton: Don't Skip This Step

For many electrical projects in Scranton, permits are not just a good idea—they're a legal requirement. The local building department mandates permits to ensure that electrical work meets the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local safety standards. This protects you by ensuring the work is inspected and approved by an independent authority.

Common Electrical Jobs Requiring Permits in Scranton:

Installation of a new electrical panel or service upgrade.
Adding new circuits to your existing system.
Complete home rewiring.
Major renovations that involve altering existing electrical layouts.
Installation of permanent generators or EV charging stations.
Any significant electrical work in new construction.
A reputable electrician will know when a permit is required and will handle the application and inspection process on your behalf. This is a critical sign of a professional who prioritizes safety and compliance. If an electrician suggests skipping the permit, consider it a major red flag—it could lead to issues with insurance, resale, or even safety hazards down the line.

What to Expect During a Professional Service Call

Knowing what to expect can ease any anxiety about having work done in your home or business.

Initial Contact & Scheduling: You'll typically describe your issue or project, and the electrician will schedule an on-site visit for an assessment and estimate.
On-Site Assessment: The electrician will thoroughly inspect the problem area, diagnose issues using specialized tools, and discuss your project needs.
Detailed Estimate & Discussion: They'll provide a written estimate, explain the proposed solution, the timeline, and answer any questions you have. This is your chance to clarify everything before agreeing to the work.
Permit Acquisition (if needed): For larger jobs, the electrician will apply for the necessary permits from the Scranton building department.
Work Execution: The electrician will perform the work safely and efficiently, adhering to all codes. They should take precautions to protect your property and keep you informed of progress.
Testing & Inspection: Once the work is complete, the electrician will test the system thoroughly. For permitted jobs, a city inspector will also review the work to ensure compliance.
Cleanup & Final Walkthrough: The area should be cleaned, and the electrician will walk you through the completed work, ensuring your satisfaction and answering any final questions.
Payment & Warranty: You'll receive an invoice, pay for services, and confirm any warranties on parts and labor.

Common Questions About Electrical Work in Scranton

What is the National Electrical Code (NEC)?

The NEC is a comprehensive set of safety standards that governs electrical wiring and equipment installation across the United States. Licensed electricians are legally required to follow the NEC to prevent fires, electrical shock, and other hazards. It's the bedrock of electrical safety.

How long do common electrical repairs take?

Outlet repair: 1–2 hours
Circuit breaker replacement: 2–4 hours
Electrical panel upgrade: 1–2 days
Whole-house rewiring: Several days to weeks, depending on the size of the home and complexity.
These are estimates, and actual times can vary based on specific circumstances.

Is there a warranty on electrical work?

Yes, reputable electricians typically offer warranties. These usually cover defects in workmanship and materials for a period of 1–5 years. Always confirm the warranty details in writing before work begins.

Avoiding Scams and Poor Workmanship

Unfortunately, not all electrical contractors operate with integrity. Here’s how to protect yourself:

Verify, Verify, Verify: As mentioned, always verify licenses and insurance. A legitimate business won't hesitate to provide this.
Get Multiple Bids: If one bid is drastically lower or higher than others, it's a warning sign.
Demand Detailed Estimates: Never agree to work based on a verbal quote. A detailed written estimate protects both parties.
Check Online Reviews and BBB: Look for consistent patterns in customer feedback.
Avoid High-Pressure Sales Tactics: If an electrician tries to push you into immediate, expensive repairs without proper assessment, politely decline.
Never Pay Upfront in Full: A deposit is common, but pay the remainder upon satisfactory completion and inspection (if applicable).
Trust Your Gut: If something feels off, it probably is.

Your Next Step: Getting Started with Confidence

Finding the best electrician in Scranton doesn't have to be a shot in the dark. By prioritizing safety, verifying credentials, seeking detailed quotes, and communicating clearly, you can ensure your electrical needs are met with professionalism and expertise.
Now that you're equipped with this comprehensive guide, take the first step. Gather your project details, start contacting the reputable Scranton electricians mentioned above (or others you find), and ask the right questions. Your peace of mind, and the safety of your property, depend on it.