Lewiston, Maine Aug 23, 2026 (Issuewire.com) The Problem with Electrical Misinformation
Every week, Corey Hunt sees the same mistakes. Homeowners call with installations that failed, costs that ballooned, or safety risks they never anticipated. Most of these problems trace back to widely believed myths about electrical work.
“You don’t guess in this trade. You either know it or you don’t,” Hunt says. As a Master Electrician who trained with IBEW and worked on projects across the United States before founding Rocky Coastal Electric in 2023, he has seen how misinformation leads people astray.
Here are five myths that mislead homeowners, why they persist, and what you should do instead.
Myth One: All Electricians Are Licensed and Insured
Many homeowners assume that anyone advertising electrical services is properly licensed. That is not true. Licensing requirements vary by state, and enforcement is inconsistent. Some handymen or general contractors perform electrical work without the credentials to do it legally or safely.
People believe this myth because they do not know what questions to ask. They see a truck, a website, or a referral and assume everything is in order.
The fact is that only licensed electricians have passed the exams, completed the hours, and carry the insurance to protect you if something goes wrong. In Maine, a Master Electrician license requires years of training and rigorous testing.
Tip: Before hiring anyone, ask to see their license number and verify it with your state licensing board. Ask for proof of insurance. If they hesitate, walk away.
Myth Two: The Cheapest Quote Saves You Money
Homeowners often choose the lowest bid, thinking they are being smart shoppers. In electrical work, the cheapest option usually costs more in the long run.
This myth persists because price is easy to compare. Quality, experience, and compliance are harder to measure.
Low bids often come from contractors who cut corners, use substandard materials, skip permits, or lack proper training. When the work fails inspection or creates a hazard, you pay twice to fix it.
“In this business, integrity matters. Anybody can wire something. Not everyone stands behind it,” Hunt explains.
Tip: Get at least three quotes. Ask each contractor to explain what is included, what materials they use, and whether permits are part of the bid. Choose based on value, not just price.
Myth Three: You Can DIY Most Electrical Projects
Online videos make electrical work look simple. Many homeowners believe they can install outlets, ceiling fans, or even EV chargers on their own and save the cost of a professional.
People believe this myth because they underestimate the complexity and danger of electrical systems. What looks straightforward on a screen can hide serious risks.
Mistakes can cause fires, electrocution, or code violations that block the sale of your home. Many jurisdictions require permits for electrical work, and insurance companies may deny claims if unlicensed work caused the damage.
Hunt has responded to countless calls where a DIY project went wrong. “You see how different crews operate. You learn discipline. You learn standards,” he says, reflecting on the years of training that build competence.
Tip: If the project involves your breaker panel, new circuits, or anything hardwired, hire a licensed electrician. Save DIY for simple tasks like changing light bulbs, and even then, turn off the power first.
Myth Four: Solar and EV Installations Are Just Like Regular Electrical Work
Homeowners often assume any electrician can handle solar panels or EV chargers. In reality, these systems require specialized knowledge of codes, utility interconnections, and emerging technology.
This myth persists because people do not realize how quickly the field is evolving. An electrician who has not kept up with training may not know the latest requirements.
Installing an EV charger, for example, involves load calculations, circuit sizing, and sometimes panel upgrades. Solar installations require coordination with the utility, understanding of inverter technology, and compliance with both electrical and building codes.
Hunt built his expertise in solar starting in 2014, working on installations in Massachusetts and Maine before expanding into EV charging through Rocky Coastal Electric. “Success to me is the continuing of education. Constantly improving day after day and being better than the day before,” he says.
Tip: When you need solar or EV work, ask the electrician about their specific experience with these systems. Request references from similar projects. Verify that they pull permits and coordinate with your utility.
Myth Five: Once It Passes Inspection, It Is Perfect
Homeowners often believe that a passing inspection means the work is flawless and will last forever. Inspections verify code compliance, but they do not guarantee longevity or catch every detail.
This myth persists because inspections feel like a final stamp of approval. People relax once the inspector signs off.
Inspectors look for safety hazards and code violations, not craftsmanship or long-term reliability. Connections can be technically compliant but still prone to failure if not done carefully. Quality work goes beyond the minimum required by code.
“When your name is on the truck, you work differently. There’s no hiding behind a company,” Hunt says, describing the accountability that drives his approach at Rocky Coastal Electric.
Tip: After the inspection, ask your electrician to walk you through the work. A good contractor will explain what was done, show you key components, and answer your questions. Keep documentation and photos for future reference.
If You Only Remember One Thing
The most important takeaway is this: electrical work is not a place to cut corners. Verify credentials, prioritize quality over price, and hire professionals for anything beyond the simplest tasks. The money you save today is not worth the risk tomorrow.
Take Action Today
Share this myth list with a friend or family member who is planning electrical work. Pick one tip from this article and apply it to your next project. If you have an upcoming installation, start by verifying licenses and asking the right questions.
“Showing up to work every day and working harder than everybody else. Creating solutions for people with problems,” Hunt says. That mindset applies to homeowners too. Show up informed, ask questions, and demand quality. Your home and your family deserve it.
About Corey Hunt
Corey Hunt is a Master Electrician and owner of Rocky Coastal Electric, serving residential and commercial clients in the Lewiston-Auburn area of Maine. He began his electrical career in 2014 working on solar installations in Massachusetts and advanced through union work with the IBEW on projects across the United States. In March 2023, he founded Rocky Coastal Electric, which has become widely known in the region for expertise in traditional electrical work, solar energy, and EV charging. Hunt is based in Lewiston, Maine.
Source :Corey Hunt
This article was originally published by IssueWire. Read the original article here.
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