Smoke Or Burning Smell From An Outlet Or Panel
Often plastic-burning smell rather than wood-smoke. If you can identify the breaker, switch it off. Stay out of the room. Call.
Call Immediately.
Any one of these is reason enough to call now. Combinations are reason enough to leave the building first.
Visible Sparking Or Arcing
Even brief sparks from an outlet, switch, or panel are a sign of arcing that's already damaged copper. Don't touch. Switch the main if you can reach it safely. Call.
An Outlet Or Switch Warm To The Touch
Outlets and switches should be room temperature. Warmth means a poor connection generating heat — a precursor to fire. Call.
Water On Or Near A Panel Or Fixture
From a roof leak, washing-machine line, or storm intrusion. Don't touch the water. If you can reach the main breaker without crossing the water, switch it. Call.
What To Do.
In order. None of this requires touching electrical equipment.
01
Get People Out Of The Affected Area
Close the door if you can. Open windows if there's smoke.
02
Switch Off The Main Breaker If Safely Reachable
Usually the big top breaker in your panel, labeled MAIN. Single throw. If the panel itself is the problem, skip this step.
03
If There's Active Fire, Call 911 First, Then Us
Use a Class C extinguisher only if the fire is small and you have a clear exit. Never throw water on energized equipment.
04
Call Us, Then Your Insurance Carrier
We can document for the claim, photograph everything for the file, and provide a written scope of damage.
What To Expect After You Call.
Median dispatch on confirmed emergencies — last 12 months. Outside the central ring, we'll tell you honestly during the call.
| Inside The I-35 / Mopac / 71 / 183 Box | 92 minutes median (last 12 months) |
|---|---|
| West Lake Hills, Mueller, South Congress | 110 minutes median |
| Pflugerville, Cedar Park, Round Rock | 120–180 minutes |
| Lakeway, Bee Cave, Buda, Kyle | 150–210 minutes |
| Hill Country (Wimberley, Dripping Springs) | 2–4 hours, weather dependent |
After-Hours / Weekend Rate: $185 trip + $145/hr labor · One-hour minimum
Don't Wait It Out
A Quick Call Is Cheaper Than A Fire.
A master electrician answers the dispatch line — not a call center, not an answering service.