FAQs

Gateway Electric

Have an electrician-related question? We have the answer. Check out these FAQs and give us a call today for more information!

  • Are you licensed and insured to operate in Omaha and surrounding communities?

    Yes, absolutely. We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured electrical contractors. Our team includes licensed Master and Journeyman electricians. Gateway Electric strictly adheres to the National Electrical Code (NEC) as well as the specific municipal codes for the City of Omaha, Elkhorn, Gretna, and surrounding Douglas and Sarpy County areas.
  • Do I need a permit for my electrical project, and who handles it?

    For major electrical work, such as panel upgrades, dedicated circuit installation, or wiring home additions, the City of Omaha or local municipality requires a permit and a subsequent inspection. As your local electrician, we handle the entire permitting process for you, from pulling the permit to scheduling and passing the city inspection.
  • What areas do you serve?

    We proudly provide our commercial and residential electrician service to the entire Omaha metropolitan area, including Elkhorn, Gretna, Bennington, Papillion, La Vista, and Bellevue.
  • Why do my lights flicker or dim unexpectedly?

    Flickering lights can be caused by a few different issues, including a loose bulb or a failing bulb. However, if multiple lights flicker when a large appliance (like your AC unit or microwave) kicks on, it usually indicates an overloaded circuit, a loose wire connection in an outlet, or an electrical panel that is struggling to handle your home's power demands. We recommend scheduling a professional inspection with our electricians to prevent a potential fire hazard.
  • What is a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlet, and why did it trip?

    Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlets feature "Test" and "Reset" buttons and are legally required in areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoors. They are designed to shut off power instantly if they detect an electrical imbalance, protecting you from lethal shocks. If it trips, unplug all devices, press the "Reset" button, and try again. If it immediately trips again, there may be a fault in the wiring or a defective appliance, and you should reach out to schedule an electrical wiring service appointment.
  • Why won't my circuit breaker reset?

    When a breaker trips, it usually rests in a middle position between "ON" and "OFF." To reset it properly, you must push it firmly to the "OFF" position first, and then flip it back to "ON." If it instantly trips right back to the middle or off position, do not force it. This indicates either a short circuit (a dangerous wiring issue) or a severe overload. Leave it off and call a professional about electrical panel installation or repair.
  • My home still has a fuse box or an old 100-amp panel. Do I need an upgrade?

    Modern buildings run a massive amount of electronics and heavy appliances simultaneously. Older 60-amp or 100-amp panels (and traditional fuse boxes) were simply not designed for today's electrical loads. We recommend upgrading to a modern 200-amp service panel for safety and capacity if you are constantly tripping breakers, noticing warm switch plates, or planning a kitchen remodel or home EV charger installation.
  • What is the difference between standard circuit breakers and AFCI breakers?

    While standard breakers protect against overloads and short circuits, Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter breakers protect against a different danger: sparking (arcing) caused by damaged or worn-out wires hidden behind your walls. Arcing is a leading cause of home electrical fires. Current residential building codes require this upgraded protection for almost all living areas in new construction and major renovations. Skilled electrical contractors can ensure your breakers are up to code.
  • What should I do to prepare for my service appointment?

    For a smooth service appointment, clear access to all work areas. Move furniture, decorations, or other items that could block our technicians from reaching electrical panels, outlets, or fixtures. When possible, place pets in a separate room and notify household members of the scheduled service time. Our technicians will manage everything else and complete the work efficiently.
  • Do you offer any guarantees or warranties for your work?

    Yes. Gateway Electric guarantees the quality of our electrical services. We offer warranties covering both our workmanship and installed materials. Specific warranty terms vary based on the service type and products utilized. Our team will review all applicable warranty information with you prior to starting any project, providing you with full confidence in your electrical investment.
  • What services does Gateway Electric offer?

    Gateway Electric provides comprehensive electrical services for residential and commercial properties throughout Omaha, NE and the surrounding areas. Our services include electrical repairs, installations, panel upgrades, lighting solutions, outlet and switch installations, electrical inspections, troubleshooting, generator installation, and emergency electrical services. Our licensed electricians are equipped to handle projects of all sizes with professionalism and expertise.