Flickering lights? Tripping breakers? Mysterious electrical problems? Our expert diagnostics identify and fix electrical issues quickly and safely throughout St. Louis and St. Charles County.
MO License #20250016884.9 Star Average. 410+ Reviews.In Business Since 2010Cottleville, MO
Pick what you're noticing. We'll tell you what it usually means, how urgent it is, and what fixes it.
A burning or hot-plastic smell from an outlet, switch or the panel usually means wiring or a connection is overheating.
If you see smoke, sparks or flames, get everyone out and call 911. If it is safe to reach, switch off the affected breaker or the main. First Choice Electric is not an emergency service; once the area is safe, book a repair visit and we will find and fix the cause.
Common causes
Repairs start with a diagnostic service call ($89 to $150), waived if you go ahead with the repair. Estimates for installs and upgrades are free.
$89–$150
Identify the problem before committing to repairs
$150–$400
Most common repairs: loose connections, bad outlets, tripping breakers
$400–$1,000+
Intermittent problems, hidden wiring issues, multi-circuit failures
Typical job: 1-4 hours.
When you call, describe the symptoms: flickering lights, tripping breakers, dead outlets, burning smells. Tell us when it happens (always, sometimes, under certain conditions) and what changed recently. This helps us prepare the right tools.
When we arrive, we first assess whether there's an immediate safety hazard. If we find dangerous conditions (burning smells, arcing, extreme heat), we may need to shut off power before proceeding with diagnosis.
We use professional diagnostic equipment (circuit analyzers, voltage testers, clamp meters, and sometimes thermal imaging cameras) to systematically test the affected circuits and identify where the problem originates.
We trace the problem to its source: a loose connection, failing breaker, damaged wire, overloaded circuit, or faulty device. We explain what we found and why it's causing your symptoms.
We present your options with clear pricing. Some problems have simple fixes; others may require more extensive work. We explain the pros and cons of each approach so you can make an informed decision.
Once you approve, we complete the repair using proper materials and techniques. We don't just patch problems. We fix them correctly so they don't return.
After the repair, we test thoroughly to verify the problem is solved. We test related circuits, check for any secondary issues, and ensure everything works safely before leaving.
Reviews that mention this work first.
4.9 Star Average. 410+ Reviews. Google, Facebook, BBB and Angi.
Fully licensed and insured in Missouri:MO State License #2025001688,St. Charles County #E25-000008,St. Louis County #ES4501.Lifetime workmanship warranty on installed work.
O'Fallon
A loose connection behind the plate arcs under load. The heat builds until the device chars.
We find the loose connection, replace the device and any heat-damaged wire, and check the rest of the circuit.
St. Charles
Heat from a failing breaker scorches the bus bar it sits on. The damage spreads to the neighbouring circuits.
We replace the panel; a burnt bus cannot be repaired.
St. Charles
A loose or overloaded breaker runs hot. The plastic case and the bus bar behind it melt before anything trips.
We shut the panel down, replace the damaged breaker and bus, and in a case like this the whole panel.
Overland
Two wires under one breaker and no spare slots mean overloaded circuits and loose connections.
We rebalance the circuits onto a new, larger panel.
Overland
Moisture and age corrode breaker contacts. Corroded breakers run hot and may not trip when they should.
We replace the breakers, or the panel when the bus is affected.
Overland
A worn receptacle or a loose backstab wire arcs behind the cover plate until the device chars.
We replace the device, check the wiring behind it and the rest of the circuit.
Flat-rate pricing before work begins, from an office in Cottleville.
5377 State Route N. Suite 437, Cottleville, MO 63304
Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
By county
By city
Flickering can be caused by loose connections, overloaded circuits, faulty fixtures, or utility issues. We'll diagnose the specific cause.
A breaker trips when there's an overload, short circuit, or ground fault. It could be too many devices, a failing appliance, or a wiring problem.
Warm outlets can indicate loose connections or overloading, both fire hazards. Have them checked promptly.
Buzzing can indicate loose connections, failing breakers, or overloaded circuits. This should be inspected as it can be a fire hazard.
We are not an emergency service, but urgent issues get priority. Tell us what is happening when you book and we will fit you in as soon as the schedule allows, usually within 1-3 business days.
We use circuit testers, thermal imaging cameras, and systematic testing to locate problems behind walls without unnecessary demolition.
Intermittent problems are common and often indicate loose connections that only fail under certain conditions. We test under load to catch these issues.
Yes. Loose connections, overloaded circuits, and damaged wiring are leading causes of house fires. Prompt troubleshooting prevents disasters.
Want fuel-powered backup too?
A Generac standby generator, or Anker's tri-fuel generator paired with your battery, keeps the power on through the longest outages whatever the weather. We install both and will size the right combination for your home.
Most estimates booked within 1-3 business days.