Frequently Asked Questions

Scheduling a free estimate with Goodnow Electric is easy. You can call us directly at (207) 318-1022, or fill out the form on our contact page. We typically respond within 24 hours and will set up a convenient time to visit your property, assess the scope of work, and provide a clear written quote with no hidden fees.

Goodnow Electric is based in Westbrook, Maine, and proudly serves all of Southern Maine including Portland, South Portland, Scarborough, Gorham, Windham, Saco, Biddeford, Falmouth, and Cape Elizabeth. Visit our locations page to see the full list of communities we serve.

Yes. Goodnow Electric holds a Maine Master Electrician License #MS60021971. We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured. The owner is on-site at every job, ensuring quality work and direct accountability on every project.

Absolutely. Goodnow Electric provides 24/7 emergency electrical service throughout Southern Maine. Electrical emergencies like power outages, sparking outlets, or burning smells can be dangerous — call us any time at (207) 318-1022 and we will get to you as quickly as possible.

The cost of an electrical panel upgrade depends on the size of your home, your current panel capacity, and the new panel requirements. Most residential panel upgrades in Southern Maine range from $1,500 to $4,000. Goodnow Electric provides free on-site estimates so you will know the exact cost before any work begins.

A typical Level 2 EV charger installation takes between 2 to 4 hours, depending on your electrical panel capacity and where the charger will be mounted. If a panel upgrade is needed, that may add additional time. Contact Goodnow Electric for a free estimate and we will walk you through the full process.

In Maine, most electrical work beyond simple fixture replacements requires a permit. This includes panel upgrades, new circuit installations, EV charger installations, and home additions. Goodnow Electric handles all permit applications and inspections for you, so you do not have to worry about the paperwork.

Goodnow Electric installs all major EV charger brands including ChargePoint, Tesla Wall Connector, JuiceBox, Grizzl-E, and more. We can help you choose the right charger for your vehicle and electrical setup. All installations include proper circuit sizing and code-compliant wiring.

Common signs include frequently tripping breakers, flickering lights, a panel that is warm to the touch, or a home still running on a fuse box. If your panel is rated under 200 amps and you are adding major appliances, an EV charger, or a home addition, an upgrade is likely needed. Goodnow Electric offers free panel assessments.

Breakers trip when a circuit is overloaded, there is a short circuit, or there is a ground fault. Occasional trips are normal, but frequent tripping usually indicates a problem — either too many devices on one circuit, faulty wiring, or a failing breaker. Goodnow Electric can diagnose the issue and recommend the right fix, whether it is adding a dedicated circuit or upgrading your panel.

We recommend having a professional electrical inspection every 3 to 5 years, or any time you purchase a home, complete a renovation, or notice warning signs like flickering lights or warm outlets. Regular inspections catch small problems before they become expensive — or dangerous. Contact Goodnow Electric to schedule an inspection.

While fuse boxes are not inherently dangerous, they are outdated and lack the safety features of modern breaker panels such as arc-fault and ground-fault protection. Fuse boxes also make it difficult to add new circuits for modern needs like EV chargers, home offices, or kitchen appliances. Goodnow Electric can upgrade your fuse box to a modern panel safely and affordably.