Electrical Installation Services
Get safe, code-compliant electrical installations from licensed electricians who show up on time, do it right, and never surprise you on price.
Cole Electric provides expert electrical installations for homeowners in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake and Portsmouth. From EV chargers to lighting to ceiling fan installs, our licensed electricians bring deep code knowledge to every job, prioritizing safety, efficiency, and quality workmanship.
We offer honest pricing, fast scheduling, and reliable, neighborly service you can count on. You'll receive a fair estimate or price range, and if costs come in lower than quoted, you’ll pay the lower amount.
Our Electrical Installation Process
We pride ourselves on quality customer service and making the process as stress-free as possible. We schedule promptly, arrive when we say we will, and come ready with fully stocked vans to eliminate supply runs and respect your time. Our licensed electricians work carefully and efficiently, then leave your space cleaner than we found it. Our goal is to provide the kind of service that we’d expect in our own homes.
Popular Electrical Installations
Ceiling Fan Installation or Replacement
Stay comfortable year-round with expert ceiling fan installation. Whether you're adding a new fan or replacing an existing one, our team ensures safe mounting and proper wiring for reliable performance.
Recessed Lighting Installation
Recessed lighting is a popular choice for homeowners seeking to brighten a space without adding visual clutter in the form of fixtures.We’ll help you choose the right layout, handle all wiring and installation, and ensure a clean, professional finish. Perfect for kitchens, living rooms, closets, and more.
Chandelier and Other Lighting Installation
Whether you’re looking to install a new chandelier or another lighting fixture, we can help. From wiring to mounting, our licensed electricians handle every detail with care to ensure a safe, code compliant setup.
New Appliance-Ready Circuit Installation
We handle the electrical power supply for ovens, dryers, dishwashers, and more. Every install is handled by an electrician who knows the appliance electrical requirements, confirms the circuit is wired correctly, and verifies that the power is correct for safe, reliable operation.
EV Charger Circuit Installation
We install dedicated EV charger circuits that can handle the load and meet all code requirements. Our licensed electricians make sure your charger is wired properly, so you can plug in with confidence, and start saving up your gas money.
Portable Generator Installation
Stay prepared for power outages with professional portable generator hookups. We install safe, code-compliant connections that keep your home running smoothly during an outage.
But that’s not all! We handle a wide range of electrical installations and replacements, from simple outlet additions to whole-home rewiring and dedicated and new circuits for a wide range of needs. Every install is done with care, just the way we’d want it done in our own homes. No matter the size or scope, we’re here to help. Get in touch today to upgrade your home.
Do I need to upgrade my panel to handle higher amps for things like EV chargers, pools, saunas, and tankless water heaters?
It depends. If your panel is full (no open slots) or rated below 150 amps, then yes, you'll likely need an upgrade to handle large new loads. However, many homes already have enough space and capacity. If you send us a photo of your panel and let us know what you're adding, we’re happy to give you a more accurate answer for your situation.
What brand of EV charger should I get, what amps does it require, and where can it be installed?
For overnight charging of most electric vehicles, a Level 2 charger (240V) is recommended. These typically draw between 16 and 80 amps, with 50 amps being the most common. You'll need two open slots and enough capacity in your panel. Most chargers can be installed inside your garage or outside near your parking spot. We have experience with a variety of popular brands, including personal experience with our own EVs, and can recommend the best option based on your car and charging needs.
Can you install a light fixture in a room that doesn’t currently have one?
Yes! Many homes were built without overhead lighting in bedrooms and instead use a switched outlet. We can convert that switch to control a new ceiling fixture by running wiring to a new ceiling box. We can also add ceiling lights in nearly any location — just let us know where you want it.
What should I consider when replacing a ceiling fan, like brace boxes, light kits, remotes, dimmers, or switching options?
If your current fan wobbles or you're replacing a small ceiling fixture with a fan, you may need a fan-rated brace box. These are designed to handle the weight and movement of a ceiling fan safely. If you want a light on your fan, choose a model with a built-in light kit. Most fans today come with remotes or pull chains, and we can also install wiring for separate wall switches. Many customers choose to add dimmers and speed controls on the wall for convenience. We’ll walk you through your options based on your preferences.
Why shouldn’t I turn off the main breaker when doing electrical work?
When doing simple electrical work, like changing a light fixture or outlet, you should turn off the power to just that circuit, not the main breaker. This leaves everything else powered up while you work. Some homes have poorly written indexes, so you may need some trial and error to find that one circuit. The main breaker is designed as an emergency shutoff, not for regular use. Switching it on and off repeatedly, especially in older panels, can damage it. If your panel isn’t clearly labeled, take the time to identify the correct circuit. It’s worth the effort for your safety and your panel’s longevity.
Can I plug space heaters or portable AC units into any outlet, or do they need special wiring?
Most space heaters and portable AC units are designed for standard 120V outlets, but they can draw a lot of power. If the circuit is already powering other devices, it may overload and trip the breaker. Try unplugging other items or using a lower setting on the heater. If the breaker keeps tripping, you might need a dedicated circuit to safely handle the load.
