Frequently Asked Questions

The cost of electrical services varies widely depending on the specific project requirements, home configuration, materials needed, and complexity of work. For example:

• Panel replacements typically range from $1,800-$4,500+
• EV charger installations generally cost $800-$1,800+ (depending on complexity)
• Recessed lighting varies based on number of fixtures and complexity
• Ceiling fans installation costs depend on whether there's existing wiring

The best way to get an accurate price for your specific needs is to request a detailed estimate from us. We provide upfront pricing before any work begins, with no hidden fees or surprises.

No, we provide free estimates for most electrical projects. You can request an estimate by filling out our online form or calling our office. For standard services like EV charger installations, panel upgrades, and lighting projects, we can often provide estimates over the phone or online. For more complex projects or unique situations, we may need to schedule an in-person visit to assess the specifics before providing an accurate quote, but this visit is still free of charge.

We accept multiple payment methods for your convenience, including:

• Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover)
• Debit cards
• Cash
• Checks
• Electronic payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay)
• Online payments through our customer portal

For larger projects, we may require a deposit before beginning work, with the balance due upon completion of the project.

Our scheduling availability varies by season and current workload. Typically, we can schedule routine service appointments within 3-7 business days. During peak seasons (spring and fall), this may extend to 1-2 weeks. For urgent issues, we make every effort to accommodate same-day or next-day service when possible. Larger projects such as panel replacements or whole-home rewiring may require scheduling 2-3 weeks in advance. The best approach is to contact us as soon as you know you need electrical work, and we'll find the earliest available appointment that works with your schedule.

Here are common signs that indicate you may need a panel upgrade:

• Frequent circuit breaker trips
• Flickering or dimming lights when appliances turn on
• Need to unplug one device to use another
• Still using a fuse box instead of circuit breakers
• Buzzing sounds coming from the electrical panel
• Warm or discolored outlets or switch plates
• Home is over 25 years old with the original panel
• Panel is less than 100 amps (most modern homes need 200A or more)
• Adding major electrical loads (EV charger, hot tub, etc.)
• Panel manufacturer is Federal Pacific Electric, Zinsco, or Challenger (known safety issues)

If you're experiencing any of these issues, we recommend scheduling an electrical inspection to assess your panel. Read our complete panel upgrade guide.

In case of an electrical emergency:

• If there's a fire: Evacuate immediately and call 911. Only use a fire extinguisher if the fire is small, contained, and you have a proper Class C extinguisher for electrical fires.
• If someone is receiving an electrical shock: Do NOT touch them directly. Turn off power at the breaker or unplug the device if safe to do so. Call 911 immediately.
• For burning odors, smoke, or sparks: Turn off power to the affected area at the main panel if safe to do so, and call us for emergency service.
• For power outages affecting only your home: Check your main breaker first. If it's not tripped and your neighbors have power, call us.
• For neighborhood power outages: Contact your utility company and follow their safety guidelines.

For electrical emergencies requiring professional help, call us at 703-997-0026 and follow the emergency prompts. Keep our number and your utility company's emergency number readily accessible.

We recommend regular electrical inspections based on the age of your home:

• Homes less than 10 years old: Every 5-7 years
• Homes 10-25 years old: Every 3-5 years
• Homes 25-40 years old: Every 2-3 years
• Homes over 40 years old: Annually

You should also consider an inspection:

• Before purchasing a home
• After a major storm or flood
• Before and after major renovations
• When adding significant new electrical loads (like an EV charger)
• If you notice flickering lights, tripping breakers, or other electrical issues

Regular inspections help identify potential issues before they become dangerous or costly problems. Contact us to schedule a comprehensive electrical safety inspection.

Yes, AJ Long Electric is fully licensed, bonded, and insured in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC. Our license and insurance information is as follows:

• Virginia: Master Electrician License #2705031092
• Maryland: Master Electrician License #3309
• Washington DC: Master Electrician License #EM40000654
• General Liability Insurance: $2,000,000
• Workers' Compensation Insurance: As required by law

We're happy to provide verification of our licenses and insurance information upon request. Working with licensed and insured electrical contractors is crucial for your protection and ensures all work is performed according to applicable codes and standards.

Yes, we stand behind our work with a comprehensive 5-year warranty that covers both labor and parts for electrical work we perform. This warranty means:

• If any installation we perform fails within 5 years due to defective workmanship, we'll repair it at no cost to you
• Parts and materials we install that fail within this period will be replaced at no cost (excluding damage from external factors)
• This warranty is transferable to new homeowners if you sell your property

Manufacturer warranties for specific products (like EV chargers or ceiling fans) may vary and those warranty terms would apply for product-specific issues. Our warranty documentation is provided with all completed work, and we keep detailed records of all installations to ensure warranty coverage is honored promptly when needed.

AJ Long Electric proudly serves the entire Northern Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland metropolitan area, including:

For a complete list of areas we serve, please visit our Service Areas page. If you don't see your specific location listed, please contact us as we may still be able to accommodate your needs.