
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Electrical Questions, Answered
From generators and EV chargers to panel upgrades and licensing — find answers to the questions New Jersey homeowners ask most.
Generators
A whole house Generac generator installation in New Jersey typically ranges from $8,000 to $25,000+, depending on the kW rating, fuel source, and complexity of the installation. Air-cooled units (7kW to 26kW) are the most popular choice for homes under 4,000 square feet, while liquid-cooled systems (25kW to 150kW) serve larger properties. Mike provides a free on-site estimate with transparent pricing -- no hidden fees.
Most residential generator installations take two days. The JLC Electrical Contractors LLC crew handles everything: pouring the concrete pad, coordinating the gas line, wiring the transfer switch, and connecting to your electrical panel. Every installation is permitted through your local municipality and inspected to NJ code.
Yes. New Jersey requires electrical and building permits for standby generator installations. JLC Electrical Contractors LLC handles all permit applications and coordinates inspections with your local municipality so you don't have to deal with the paperwork yourself.
Yes. A whole house standby generator detects the power outage and kicks on automatically within 10 seconds -- even at 2 AM. There is no manual startup required. When utility power returns, the system transfers back and shuts down on its own.
Yes. JLC Electrical Contractors LLC offers annual maintenance plans that include oil and filter changes, battery testing, transfer switch inspection, and a full operational test. Regular maintenance keeps your warranty valid and ensures the unit is ready when the next storm hits. Most Monmouth County homeowners schedule service in early spring before hurricane season.
JLC Electrical Contractors LLC is a certified Generac distributor, dealer, and service technician. We install and service the full Generac residential lineup, from the Guardian air-cooled series to the Protector liquid-cooled models. We also troubleshoot and repair most other major generator brands.
EV Chargers
A Level 2 EV charger installation in New Jersey typically costs between $1,200 and $3,000, depending on your electrical panel capacity, charger location, and whether a panel upgrade is needed. JLC Electrical Contractors LLC installs all major brands and can help you determine the best setup for your vehicle and driving habits.
It depends on your current panel capacity. Most Level 2 chargers require a dedicated 40-amp or 50-amp circuit. If your panel is already near capacity (common in older NJ homes with 100-amp service), an upgrade to 200 amps may be needed. Mike evaluates your panel during the free estimate and will tell you exactly what's required -- no guesswork.
Most residential EV charger installations are completed in a single day. If a panel upgrade is required, the project may take an additional day. JLC Electrical Contractors LLC handles the entire process including permits and inspections.
New Jersey offers various incentives for EV charger installations, and federal tax credits may also apply. The programs and amounts change frequently, so JLC Electrical Contractors LLC recommends checking the NJ Clean Energy Program website or asking Mike during your consultation for the most current information.
Panel Upgrades
Common signs include frequently tripping breakers, flickering lights when appliances turn on, a panel that still uses fuses instead of breakers, or a home with 100-amp service that can't keep up with modern electrical demands. If you're adding a generator, EV charger, or central AC, a panel upgrade is often required. Mike will inspect your current setup during a free estimate.
A standard 200-amp electrical panel upgrade in New Jersey typically runs between $2,500 and $5,000, depending on the complexity of the work and whether the meter base or service entrance cable also needs replacement. JLC Electrical Contractors LLC provides a written quote after an on-site inspection -- the price you see is the price you pay.
Most residential panel upgrades are completed in one day. The power will be off for several hours during the swap, so JLC Electrical Contractors LLC coordinates with you to schedule the work at a convenient time. All upgrades are permitted and inspected per NJ electrical code.
Surge Protection
A whole house surge protector is installed at your electrical panel and shields every circuit in your home from voltage spikes caused by lightning, utility switching, or equipment cycling. It protects appliances, electronics, HVAC systems, and smart home devices from damage that a standard power strip cannot prevent.
Absolutely. A single lightning strike or major power surge can destroy thousands of dollars in electronics and appliances. The cost of a whole house surge protector -- typically $500 to $1,200 installed -- is a fraction of what you'd spend replacing a refrigerator, HVAC control board, or home entertainment system. It's especially important in coastal New Jersey where storms are frequent.
Licensing & General
Yes. JLC Electrical Contractors LLC holds New Jersey Electrical License #34EI01612000, covering both residential and commercial work. We carry full liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. You can verify our license through the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs.
JLC Electrical Contractors LLC is headquartered in Wall Township and serves homeowners and businesses across Monmouth, Ocean, Middlesex, and Mercer counties. Most residential work is within a 30-mile radius, covering towns like Spring Lake, Red Bank, Toms River, Holmdel, Brick, Tinton Falls, and East Brunswick.
Call (732) 332-1100 or fill out the form on our Contact page. Mike, Cheryl, or Lauren answers the phone during business hours -- no phone trees, no call centers. Most estimates are scheduled within a few days, and simple projects can be quoted over the phone the same day you call.
Yes. Sparking outlets, power outages, and electrical hazards can't wait. Our licensed electricians are available for emergency calls. Call (732) 332-1100 and we will get someone to your home as quickly as possible.
Mike Boeke founded JLC Electrical Contractors LLC in 2007 after 40+ years in the electrical trade. The company has been serving Central New Jersey homeowners and businesses for over 19 years, building a reputation for honest pricing, owner involvement on every project, and work that passes inspection the first time.
Yes. JLC Electrical Contractors LLC handles commercial projects including generator installations for businesses, new construction and fit-out electrical, storefront and restaurant wiring, warehouse and industrial electrical, and multi-family housing electrical systems. The same licensed crew handles both residential and commercial work.
Still Have Questions?
Mike, Cheryl, or Lauren answers the phone during business hours. No phone trees, no call centers — you talk to someone who works here.

Electrical Emergency?
Don't Risk It.
Our electricians are standing by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Sparking outlets, power outages, and electrical hazards can't wait.