Frequently Asked Questions

Knob and tube is an outdated wiring method common in homes built before the 1950s, lacking a ground wire and often unable to handle modern electrical loads. It should be replaced during remodels, home sales, or when adding new circuits. At Arc Electric Inc, we're familiar with Butte's historic housing stock and minimize disruption while working in finished spaces.

A panel upgrade replaces outdated breakers and increases capacity, reducing fire risk and preventing overloads from modern appliances. It ensures code compliance and supports safe operation of heating, cooling, and kitchen equipment. Arc Electric Inc performs panel replacements throughout Southwest Montana with attention to older home systems.

Partial power loss is often caused by a tripped breaker, a faulty circuit connection, or a problem at a shared junction point. Diagnosing the root cause prevents recurring issues and safety hazards. Arc Electric Inc identifies and resolves circuit problems rather than applying temporary fixes.

LED retrofits make sense when energy costs are high, lighting quality is poor, or maintenance frequency becomes disruptive. They reduce operating expenses and improve visibility in retail, warehouse, and office environments. Arc Electric Inc installs LED systems and permanent lighting for commercial properties in Butte and surrounding areas.

A tenant build-out includes layout planning, circuit installation, lighting, outlet placement, and code-compliant wiring tailored to the business type. Work is coordinated with other trades and operational timelines. Arc Electric Inc supports retail and office build-outs across Southwest Montana.

PLC panels automate equipment sequences, monitor conditions like motor temperature, and generate alerts when faults occur. They increase uptime and allow remote or distributed control across facilities. Arc Electric Inc designs and builds custom control panels in our panel shop for mining and industrial clients.

Switchgear is a heavy-duty system designed for high-voltage distribution and industrial power demands, with advanced protection and isolation features. Standard panels serve lower-voltage residential and light commercial loads. Arc Electric Inc installs and maintains switchgear for mining operations and industrial facilities in the Butte region.

Many historic Butte homes were built with 60-amp or lower service, insufficient for modern heating, appliances, and electronics. Upgrading to 100-amp or 200-amp service improves safety and supports remodels or additions. Arc Electric Inc is experienced with older electrical systems and local code requirements.

Repeated trips indicate an overloaded circuit, a short, or a failing breaker. Unplug devices on that circuit and reset; if it trips immediately, call a licensed electrician. Arc Electric Inc diagnoses breaker and circuit issues to identify the underlying cause and ensure safe operation.

Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems provide battery backup during outages and condition incoming power to prevent damage from surges or voltage fluctuations. They're critical for sensitive controls and data systems in industrial environments. Arc Electric Inc installs and maintains UPS systems for facilities throughout Southwest Montana.

Many underestimate circuit needs for tools, chargers, and equipment, leading to overloaded outlets and nuisance trips. Planning adequate circuits and properly rated outlets prevents issues and supports safe tool operation. Arc Electric Inc designs garage and shop electrical systems for functionality and code compliance.

Yes, modern PLC-based automation can integrate sensors and controls spread across buildings or sites, centralizing monitoring and alarm functions. This improves response time and operational visibility. Arc Electric Inc builds distributed automation systems for industrial and mining clients in the region.

Yes — Arc Electric installs Level 2 EV charging stations for homeowners across Butte and the surrounding communities. We handle the dedicated circuit, panel capacity check, and all wiring so your charger meets code and works safely. Most home EV charger installs are completed in a single visit.

Yes, Arc Electric handles both residential and commercial electrical projects throughout Butte. Services span everything from home panel upgrades and wiring to commercial tenant build-outs, LED retrofits, and industrial control systems, making it a consistent choice for customers who need a single electrician across multiple project types.

Arc Electric serves Butte and the surrounding communities and prioritizes prompt response for electrical issues. Whether the need is urgent troubleshooting or a scheduled installation, the team is local and positioned to reach residential and commercial customers in the area without the delays common with contractors based farther away.

A 150-amp panel handles most standard homes comfortably, while a 200-amp service is recommended if you plan to add an EV charger, central HVAC, a hot tub, or a major home addition. Our electricians assess your current load and planned equipment to recommend the right service size, and handle the full upgrade including permits and code compliance in Butte and across Southwest Montana.

Arc Electric Inc provides professional electrical panel upgrades throughout Butte and the surrounding Southwest Montana area. Our licensed electricians manage the entire process — from load assessment and permit filing to final inspection — so your home or business meets current code and has the capacity it needs.

Common signs include frequently tripping breakers, flickering lights, a panel that feels warm to the touch, or a fuse box that hasn't been updated in decades. Older Butte homes in particular often run on service sizes that can't safely support modern appliances, and a licensed electrician can assess whether an upgrade is the right fix.