Cheval, FL is known for its beautiful gated communities, luxury homes, and well-kept neighborhoods—but even the most high-end properties aren’t immune to electrical issues. Many of the electrical problems we see in Cheval stem from aging systems, increasing energy demands, or improper work done by handymen or unlicensed electricians. Knowing what to watch out for can help you prevent small problems from becoming serious hazards.

Let’s take a look at the most common residential electrical issues in Cheval, what causes them, and how ONYX Electric resolves them quickly and safely.

Frequent circuit breaker trips are a common issue. If your breaker panel trips often—especially when you use appliances like microwaves, hairdryers, or HVAC systems—it’s a sign that your circuits are either overloaded, improperly wired, or the panel itself is outdated. Many Cheval homes still run on panels that weren’t designed for modern energy demands. Add EV chargers, smart devices, and multi-zone AC systems, and you can easily push an old panel beyond its safe limits. Our electricians can test your system, identify problem circuits, and either install new dedicated lines or recommend a full panel upgrade if needed.

Another red flag is burning smells or warm outlets. A burning odor near switches or outlets, or a wall plate that feels hot to the touch, usually points to loose wire connections or overloaded circuits. These can quickly escalate into electrical fires if not handled immediately. Our licensed electricians use diagnostic tools like thermal imaging to locate the issue and resolve it safely.

Flickering or dimming lights are often signs of loose connections, overloaded circuits, or outdated dimmer switches. In Cheval homes, this might stem from older wiring, oversized lighting loads, or compatibility issues with LED fixtures. If the flickering happens in multiple rooms, it could indicate a more serious issue with your service panel or grounding system. We perform a thorough inspection to get to the root of the problem and make sure your lighting is stable and safe.

Dead outlets or unresponsive switches are another issue we see frequently. If certain plugs or switches stop working altogether, it could be due to a tripped GFCI, broken wiring behind the wall, or even rodent damage in the attic. Our team traces and isolates the fault, makes safe repairs, and verifies that power is restored without compromising your wall finishes or decor.

As more Cheval residents install EV chargers, home gyms, smart appliances, and pool heaters, we’re seeing more overloaded circuits—especially in garages, kitchens, and home offices. These areas often require dedicated circuits to handle the electrical load. If you’re hearing buzzing sounds from outlets, smelling burning odors, or tripping breakers when running high-powered equipment, we can upgrade your wiring to match your lifestyle and keep things running safely.

Cheval’s proximity to storm-prone areas in Hillsborough County also means homeowners occasionally deal with power surges. Lightning strikes and utility fluctuations can damage your wiring, appliances, and electronics even if the surge isn’t visibly catastrophic. We offer whole-home surge protection systems and post-storm inspections to help detect and prevent these issues before they turn into something worse.

A large number of electrical service calls in Cheval stem from failed 4-point inspections. Whether you’re selling your home or renewing insurance, many providers require electrical systems to meet strict standards. Common violations include double-tapped breakers, outdated panels like Federal Pacific or Zinsco, missing GFCI protection, and ungrounded outlets. ONYX Electric specializes in resolving these issues quickly and legally, with all the necessary documentation to pass inspection.

Finally, we often discover unpermitted work done by previous owners or handymen. These DIY jobs can look clean on the surface but hide serious code violations or safety hazards behind the walls. We frequently find buried junction boxes, overloaded subpanels, missing grounding, and incorrectly wired lighting circuits in high-end homes. Our electricians bring everything up to code with clear, upfront pricing and transparent communication.

In summary, if you’re dealing with flickering lights, warm outlets, frequent breaker trips, or failed inspections, you’re not alone—these are common issues in Cheval homes. The key is to act early and work with a licensed, insured electrician who understands both the technical and regulatory aspects of residential electrical systems in Hillsborough County. ONYX Electric is proud to be that trusted partner for Cheval homeowners, providing fast, code-compliant service that protects your property and your peace of mind.

While hiring a handyman for minor home repairs might seem like a cost-effective solution, when it comes to electrical work in Cheval, FL, the safest and smartest choice is always a licensed electrician. Electrical systems are complex, heavily regulated, and potentially dangerous when handled improperly. Mistakes made by untrained individuals can lead to fires, injuries, or code violations that affect your insurance coverage—or even delay the sale of your home.

In Cheval’s upscale residential communities, homes often have modern appliances, advanced lighting systems, and large service panels. These aren’t plug-and-play setups. They require precise load calculations, secure grounding, and full compliance with Hillsborough County electrical codes. A handyman, no matter how skilled in general tasks, isn’t trained to handle these complexities or pull the required permits.

One of the biggest risks of using a handyman is improper wiring or connections behind your walls. Loose or poorly secured wires can lead to arcing—an electrical discharge that generates extreme heat and can ignite surrounding materials. Often, these mistakes aren’t discovered until an outlet fails, a light flickers, or worse, a fire occurs. By the time the issue surfaces, the damage can already be done.

Another concern is insurance and liability. If a fire or electrical injury occurs and the cause is traced to unlicensed electrical work, insurance companies may deny your claim. Additionally, if a handyman gets hurt while performing electrical work, you could be held liable if they aren’t properly insured or bonded. This isn’t just a financial risk—it’s a legal one.

When you hire a licensed electrician in Cheval, like those at ONYX Electric, you’re protected from these risks. Licensed electricians must pass state exams, stay up to date on the latest electrical codes, and carry full liability insurance. We also pull permits when required and provide documentation that proves the work was done safely and legally.

From a quality standpoint, professional electricians also bring diagnostic tools and specialized knowledge that handymen simply don’t have access to. Whether it’s identifying an overloaded circuit, upgrading a breaker panel, or troubleshooting a mysterious power loss, licensed electricians are trained to get to the root of the problem—not just apply a quick fix.

It’s also worth noting that unlicensed work can delay your home sale or cause you to fail a 4-point inspection. In high-value neighborhoods like Cheval, home inspectors often check for DIY wiring, outdated panels, and improper GFCI or AFCI protection. If you’ve had electrical work done by a handyman and it wasn’t permitted or inspected, you may need to pay again to bring it up to code.

At ONYX Electric, we’re often called in after a handyman job goes wrong. Whether it’s an outdoor light that trips the breaker every time it rains, or an EV charger that causes flickering throughout the house, we’ve seen the damage unqualified work can cause—and we know how to fix it.

In short, while a handyman might be fine for painting, assembling furniture, or fixing a door hinge, electrical work is in a different category. It’s regulated, high-stakes, and critical to your safety. In Cheval, where homes are often equipped with advanced systems and premium finishes, it’s just not worth the risk.

When you hire ONYX Electric, you’re not just getting a licensed electrician—you’re getting peace of mind, full transparency, and work that’s done right the first time. We take pride in protecting your home, your family, and your investment with electrical service you can trust.

A residential electrical inspection in Cheval, FL, is a comprehensive evaluation of your home’s electrical system, designed to ensure it’s safe, up to code, and functioning efficiently. Whether you’re buying a home, preparing for a 4-point insurance inspection, adding new appliances, or just haven’t had an inspection in a while, this process can uncover hidden issues before they become dangerous or expensive to fix.

In a community like Cheval—where homes often feature custom upgrades, EV chargers, smart technology, or even backup generators—having your electrical system professionally inspected is not just a smart precaution; it’s essential.

At ONYX Electric, our licensed electricians follow a detailed checklist during every inspection to make sure your home complies with Florida building codes, Hillsborough County regulations, and current safety standards. Here’s what’s typically included:

1. Main Electrical Panel Inspection

We check the condition of your panel and all breakers, making sure they’re properly labeled, grounded, and free of corrosion or burn marks. We’ll also verify the panel’s capacity is sufficient for your home’s size and energy usage, especially if you’ve recently added things like an EV charger, hot tub, or home office.

2. Subpanels and Load Calculations

If your home includes subpanels in garages or outbuildings, we inspect those as well. We calculate electrical load to ensure you’re not overtaxing the system. This is especially important in Cheval, where larger homes often support multiple HVAC zones, kitchen appliances, and outdoor systems.

3. Circuit Wiring and Connections

Our team visually inspects accessible wiring and tests for voltage irregularities. We look for loose wires, improper splices, aluminum wiring, or outdated materials. We also test wire grounding and make sure wires are protected from moisture or mechanical damage—especially in attics, garages, and crawlspaces.

4. GFCI and AFCI Protection

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets are required in kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor spaces, and any area exposed to moisture. AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection is increasingly required for living spaces. We ensure your home has proper protection and replace missing or non-functional units.

5. Outlet and Switch Testing

We test a representative number of outlets and switches throughout the home to verify correct polarity, tight wiring, proper grounding, and reliable operation. If any are warm, sparking, buzzing, or not functioning, we document the issue and recommend repair or replacement.

6. Light Fixtures, Ceiling Fans, and Smoke Alarms

We check ceiling fans and lights for safe mounting, wire integrity, and fixture compatibility with the wattage used. Smoke and CO detectors are checked for location, expiration dates, and power supply—especially if required by insurance or building code.

7. Surge Protection Evaluation

In Cheval, where storms and power surges are not uncommon, we assess whether your home is adequately protected. We look at point-of-use protectors and recommend whole-home surge protection if needed—especially if your property has expensive electronics or solar equipment.

8. Exterior and Grounding Checks

Outdoor lighting, pool or spa circuits, landscape wiring, and exterior GFCI outlets are inspected for water resistance and safety. We also verify that the grounding electrode system is present and properly bonded—critical for lightning-prone regions like Hillsborough County.

9. Code Compliance and Safety Violations

We compare your home’s system against current National Electrical Code (NEC) and Florida Building Code requirements. If your home was built more than 10–15 years ago, chances are some parts of the system are outdated or no longer compliant. We document all violations and recommend options for remediation.

10. Custom Recommendations and Upgrade Planning

At the end of the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report summarizing findings, safety concerns, and any code violations. We also highlight areas where proactive upgrades could improve performance or efficiency—whether it’s adding more circuits, replacing a panel, or improving surge protection.

In Cheval, many electrical inspections are triggered by 4-point inspections for insurance, new home purchases, or post-renovation reviews. We’re experienced with all of them and can tailor the inspection to meet your specific goals. If you’re preparing to sell your home, we can even help you make sure everything passes before the buyer’s inspector arrives.

Most importantly, ONYX Electric doesn’t just inspect—we guide you through the next steps. If repairs are needed, we’ll provide options, transparent pricing, and a clear action plan.

If it’s been more than 5 years since your last electrical inspection—or if you’re seeing signs of wear like flickering lights, tripping breakers, or buzzing outlets—it’s time to schedule a professional visit. Your safety, property value, and insurance eligibility may depend on it.

Installing an EV charger in your Cheval, FL home is one of the smartest upgrades you can make—both for convenience and long-term property value. As electric vehicles become more popular in Hillsborough County, we’re helping more Cheval homeowners get ready for fast, efficient home charging.

In most cases, the installation of a Level 2 EV charger takes just one day. However, the actual time required can vary based on a few important factors:

1. Your Home’s Electrical Panel Capacity

Before we can install your charger, we’ll need to inspect your main service panel. Many Cheval homes already have 200-amp service, which is ideal. If your panel is newer and has enough available amperage, we can typically install the charger the same day. If upgrades are needed—like adding a subpanel or increasing capacity—it may require additional time and permitting.

2. Charger Location & Distance from Panel

The closer your charger location is to your electrical panel, the faster and more affordable the installation. When the panel is in the garage or on the same wall, most installations take just a few hours. If the charger needs to be placed across the home or in a detached garage, we may need to run conduit through the attic or underground, which can add a day or two.

3. Permit Requirements

Hillsborough County requires permits for EV charger installations to ensure electrical safety. ONYX Electric pulls all permits on your behalf, schedules inspections, and ensures everything is compliant with NEC and local code. In some cases, inspection schedules may affect total turnaround time, but we do everything we can to streamline the process.

4. Charger Model & Installation Type

Hardwired chargers (recommended for most Cheval homes) take slightly longer to install than plug-in models, but they’re neater and more weather-resistant. We’ll help you select the right unit for your vehicle, whether you’re charging a Tesla, Rivian, Ford Lightning, or any other EV.

5. HOA Approval (if needed)

Some gated communities in Cheval may require architectural approval or notice to the HOA before external installations. While this rarely delays the process, we recommend checking your HOA guidelines in advance.

Typical Timeline:

• Initial Inspection & Estimate – 30–60 minutes (can often be done same day)

• Permit & Scheduling – 1–3 business days (depending on county schedule)

• Installation Day – 2–6 hours for most homes

• Final Inspection – Usually completed within 24–48 hours of install

In total, the process from first call to final inspection often takes 3–5 business days, depending on availability and permitting. If no panel upgrades are needed, many Cheval homeowners are fully up and charging within 48–72 hours.

What’s Included in the Service?

ONYX Electric provides a complete, end-to-end service:

• Panel evaluation and load calculation

• Permit application and scheduling

• Charger selection guidance

• Code-compliant installation

• Final inspection coordination

• Warranty and support

We also provide whole-home surge protection, which is strongly recommended when installing EV chargers. These systems help protect both the charger and your vehicle’s onboard electronics from voltage spikes during Florida’s summer storms.

Whether you’re charging a Tesla Model Y or preparing for future EV ownership, ONYX Electric makes the transition easy. We’ve installed dozens of EV chargers in Cheval and nearby areas, and we understand the unique needs of larger homes, multi-car households, and HOA-managed properties.

If you’re ready to take the next step in electrifying your home, reach out today. We’ll handle the paperwork, the power, and the precision—so you can plug in and drive with confidence.

In Cheval, FL—just like the rest of unincorporated Hillsborough County—permits are legally required for most electrical work beyond basic fixture swaps. These permits ensure that installations and repairs meet local and national safety codes, and they help protect homeowners from faulty or unsafe work. Whether you’re upgrading a panel, installing an EV charger, or repairing wiring, pulling a permit isn’t just a formality—it’s a key part of doing the job right.

At ONYX Electric, we handle all permitting on your behalf, ensuring full compliance with Hillsborough County’s Building Services Division. Our team is experienced in navigating the permit process efficiently so you don’t have to worry about paperwork, scheduling inspections, or dealing with county offices. Here’s what you need to know about permits for electrical work in Cheval.

1. When Is a Permit Required?

Permits are required for a wide range of electrical projects, including:

• Electrical panel upgrades or replacements

• Installation of EV chargers

• Rewiring part or all of your home

• Adding new circuits or outlets

• Installing whole-home surge protection

• Outdoor lighting, spa, or pool electrical systems

• Generator installation

• Any work that modifies the electrical system

Minor repairs—such as replacing a light switch, changing a ceiling fan, or swapping out a fixture—typically don’t require a permit if they don’t affect wiring or circuit protection. However, when in doubt, it’s always safer to check.

2. Why Does Permitting Matter?

Pulling a permit means your work will be reviewed and inspected by a Hillsborough County official. This ensures the work meets the National Electrical Code (NEC), Florida Building Code, and local ordinances. It also:

• Protects your insurance coverage

• Helps avoid legal issues during home sales

• Guarantees the work is inspected for safety

• Documents compliance for 4-point and wind mitigation inspections

Many home insurance companies will require proof that recent electrical work—especially panel upgrades—was permitted and inspected. If you ever sell your home, unpermitted work can delay or derail the transaction.

3. How Long Do Permits Take?

Most electrical permits in Hillsborough County can be issued in 24–72 hours. For more complex jobs, such as whole-home rewiring or multi-system upgrades, the permitting process may take a few extra days. ONYX Electric submits all applications electronically, tracks their status, and schedules inspections with county officials on your behalf.

4. Do I Need to Be Home for the Inspection?

Not always. If the work area is accessible and safe for the inspector, you don’t need to be present. We coordinate directly with inspectors and make sure everything is prepared for a smooth review.

5. What Happens If I Skip the Permit?

Working without a permit is risky and can lead to:

• Failed insurance claims

• Fines from the county

• Required removal or reinstallation of unapproved work

• Unsafe electrical systems that put your family at risk

If you’ve had unpermitted work done in the past, ONYX Electric can inspect it, correct code violations, and bring the system up to legal and safety standards.

6. Do Handymen or Unlicensed Workers Pull Permits?

No. Only licensed electrical contractors can legally pull electrical permits in Cheval and the surrounding areas. If someone offers to do major electrical work without a permit, that’s a red flag. It likely means they’re unlicensed—or trying to cut corners. Either scenario can lead to safety issues, failed inspections, or legal complications.

In a well-regulated, high-value area like Cheval, doing things the right way matters. That’s why ONYX Electric makes permitting part of our standard process—not an upsell or afterthought.

Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s power system, and if it’s outdated or compromised, it could be putting your Cheval, FL property at serious risk. From fire hazards to system failures and insurance problems, an unsafe panel isn’t something to ignore—especially in a high-demand area like Cheval where homes often use more electricity than older systems were designed to handle.

Here are some clear signs that your panel needs attention:

1. Frequent Breaker Trips or Buzzing Noises

If your breakers trip regularly or you hear buzzing, humming, or crackling from your panel, that’s a serious warning sign. These sounds could mean arcing is occurring—an electrical discharge that generates extreme heat and may start a fire.

2. Warm or Discolored Panel Cover

If the metal panel door feels hot or shows signs of scorching, discoloration, or rust, call an electrician immediately. Overheating is a red flag that circuits may be overloaded or connections are loose inside the box.

3. You Still Have a Fuse Box or Obsolete Brand

If your Cheval home still has a fuse box or an older panel brand like Federal Pacific (FPE) or Zinsco, these systems are known fire hazards and must be replaced. FPE panels, for instance, are notorious for failing to trip when overloaded—allowing wires to melt and fires to start undetected.

4. Your Home Was Built Before 1990

Many homes in Cheval were built in the 1980s and 1990s, meaning they may still have panels that were code-compliant at the time but are now obsolete. Even if it’s “still working,” your panel may not be able to handle modern energy needs like EV chargers, tankless water heaters, or multi-zone HVAC systems.

5. Breakers Don’t Stay Reset

If your breakers won’t reset or keep tripping even under light loads, it could be due to a faulty breaker, corrosion inside the panel, or damaged wiring. Repeatedly resetting a bad breaker without fixing the root issue is dangerous and can lead to wiring damage or electrical fires.

6. There’s No Room for New Circuits

If your panel is full or has double-tapped breakers (two wires under one terminal), it’s time to upgrade. Crowded panels not only violate code—they also create serious safety issues. With modern Cheval homes increasingly installing EV chargers, security systems, pool pumps, and smart home tech, you need room to expand safely.

7. Failed a 4-Point Inspection or Insurance Denial

Many Cheval homeowners find out their panel is a problem when trying to renew insurance. Insurance companies routinely deny or raise premiums for homes with unsafe or outdated electrical panels. If your inspector flags the panel—or if you’re planning to sell or refinance—it’s time to act.

What Should You Do If You See These Signs?

Call a licensed electrician like ONYX Electric. We specialize in panel inspections, repairs, and full upgrades in Cheval and throughout Hillsborough County. We’ll inspect your panel, evaluate your energy needs, and recommend a safe, future-proof solution.

We also pull all required permits, coordinate with the county for inspection, and ensure your new system is fully code-compliant and ready for anything—from EVs to home expansions.

Replacing an outdated panel isn’t just about meeting code—it’s about protecting your home, qualifying for insurance, and powering your life safely. Don’t wait for a failure or a fire. If you’re unsure about your electrical panel, call ONYX Electric today for a professional evaluation you can trust.

If your home in Cheval, FL suddenly loses power in just part of the house—while the rest still works—you’re likely experiencing partial power loss, and it’s a sign that something is wrong with your electrical system. It could be minor, like a tripped breaker, or it could indicate a serious issue like a damaged main line, faulty neutral connection, or overloaded panel. Either way, it’s not something to ignore.

Here’s what you should do immediately and how ONYX Electric can help if the problem turns out to be more than a quick fix.

Step 1: Check for Tripped Breakers

Go to your main electrical panel and see if any breakers are in the OFF position or stuck in the middle. If you find one, switch it OFF, then back ON. Sometimes this can restore power, especially if the issue is isolated to one room or outlet.

Step 2: Look for GFCI Outlets That Need Resetting

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets—typically located in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor areas—can trip and cut power to multiple outlets in a chain. Press the RESET button on any GFCIs you can find and see if the power returns.

Step 3: Note Which Areas Are Affected

If multiple unrelated rooms are affected—like the kitchen and master bedroom—but the rest of the house is fine, that could point to a more serious issue like:

• A faulty neutral wire from the utility

• A burned-out or loose main breaker

• Damaged wiring in the service panel

• Overloaded or failing electrical components

Step 4: Check with Neighbors or the Power Company

Sometimes partial power is caused by utility issues outside your home—especially after storms. If your neighbors are also affected or if large appliances like your oven or dryer aren’t working (but lights still are), call your utility provider to rule out a service drop issue.

When to Call a Licensed Electrician

If none of the above steps restore power, or if the issue keeps happening, call ONYX Electric immediately. Partial power is not just an inconvenience—it can be dangerous. Unstable voltage can damage appliances, cause lights to flicker, or even spark electrical fires.

At ONYX Electric, we’ll conduct a full system diagnosis in your Cheval home. This includes:

• Checking the main panel and breakers for overheating or wear

• Testing voltage across circuits and grounding systems

• Inspecting neutral and service conductors

• Identifying potential utility-side issues

• Resolving code violations or outdated wiring

We’re equipped to restore full power quickly and safely, while also identifying any long-term risks that need to be addressed. If your home has an older panel, improperly sized breakers, or signs of moisture or corrosion in the electrical system, we’ll explain your options clearly and offer solutions that fit your budget and timeline.

Important Reminder for Cheval Homeowners:

In luxury communities like Cheval, homes often have multiple HVAC units, smart devices, EV chargers, and pool systems—all of which add load to your system. If your electrical setup wasn’t designed with these demands in mind, partial outages may become more frequent until a proper upgrade is performed.

Don’t wait for a total blackout or an insurance inspection to uncover problems. If you’ve experienced partial power loss more than once, let ONYX Electric take a look. Our team of licensed electricians will ensure your system is safe, balanced, and ready to support your home for years to come.

Yes—smart home systems are generally safe for your home’s electrical setup in Cheval, FL—but only if your electrical infrastructure is modern, properly installed, and well-maintained. As more homeowners in Cheval adopt smart thermostats, lighting, security cameras, EV chargers, and home automation devices, the demand on residential electrical systems has grown significantly. That’s why it’s critical to ensure your wiring, panel, grounding, and surge protection can handle today’s technology.

At ONYX Electric, we often work with homeowners upgrading their homes with smart systems, and we’ve seen both the benefits and the pitfalls. Here’s what you should know before expanding your smart home setup.

1. Compatibility Starts with Your Panel

Smart home systems may not draw a lot of power on their own, but collectively, they can push older electrical panels to their limits. If your home was built before the 1990s or hasn’t had a recent electrical upgrade, you may be running out of capacity—or operating close to unsafe loads. Overloaded panels are a leading cause of tripped breakers and long-term electrical failures.

We always recommend a panel evaluation before a full smart home installation. In many Cheval homes, upgrading to a 200-amp panel with room for expansion is a safe, future-proof move.

2. Surge Protection Is Non-Negotiable

Smart devices are sensitive. A lightning strike, utility surge, or even a sudden power restoration after an outage can destroy hundreds or thousands of dollars in smart home equipment in an instant. A whole-home surge protector, installed at the panel, shields your circuits and devices from destructive voltage spikes. We also recommend point-of-use surge protectors for expensive gear like servers, routers, and entertainment systems.

3. Ensure Proper Wiring & Grounding

Smart switches, motion sensors, and smart outlets often require a neutral wire—a feature many older homes in Cheval lack. We frequently upgrade circuits to accommodate these requirements safely and cleanly. Proper grounding is also essential. Without it, your devices won’t just malfunction—they can pose shock risks or fail code inspections.

4. Wi-Fi and Low-Voltage Integration

Many smart home hubs and sensors operate on low-voltage wiring, often installed alongside traditional systems. If you’re integrating a smart thermostat, doorbell, or security system, we’ll ensure that your low-voltage wiring is separated and shielded appropriately from high-voltage systems to avoid signal interference or fire hazards.

5. System Redundancy and Load Balancing

Smart homes often include multiple always-on devices: security cameras, lighting hubs, charging docks, and network boosters. We help you balance loads across circuits to avoid overburdening any one section of your home. For larger homes in Cheval, we also recommend installing dedicated circuits for key systems like security or networking to avoid outages.

6. Compliance with Code & Future Flexibility

We design and install smart home wiring systems that comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and Hillsborough County regulations. Just as importantly, we plan for future expansion. As smart technology evolves, you want infrastructure that’s flexible—not something that will need rewiring in two years.

Bottom Line: Smart Homes Need Smart Infrastructure

While smart home systems themselves are safe, your home must be ready for them. That’s where licensed electricians like ONYX Electric come in. We evaluate, upgrade, and install smart home infrastructure tailored to Cheval’s premium housing and energy needs.

If you’re unsure whether your home is ready for a new smart panel, climate control system, or lighting automation, we offer assessments that identify potential issues before you invest. We’ll guide you through a smart and safe installation—so your systems work flawlessly, efficiently, and safely.

Upgrading to a 200-amp electrical panel is one of the smartest investments you can make in your Cheval, FL home—especially if you’re planning to modernize, install an EV charger, or expand your use of high-power appliances. Many homes in Cheval were built with 100-amp panels that are no longer sufficient for today’s electrical demands. As lifestyles become more tech-reliant and energy-intensive, panel upgrades are quickly shifting from optional upgrades to necessary infrastructure improvements.

Here are the key benefits you’ll experience with a 200-amp upgrade:

1. Power Capacity That Matches Modern Lifestyles

A 200-amp panel delivers more total power to your home, allowing you to run multiple large appliances—such as electric ovens, tankless water heaters, HVAC units, and EV chargers—without tripping breakers or overloading circuits. In Cheval, where many homes feature pools, hot tubs, or home gyms, the need for increased capacity is even more pronounced.

2. Readiness for EV Charging, Additions, and Remodels

Planning to install an EV charger, build an addition, or add a detached garage or outdoor kitchen? You’ll likely need more amperage than your existing panel can safely handle. A 200-amp upgrade gives you room to grow, prevents overheating, and avoids band-aid fixes like tandem breakers or unsafe subpanels.

3. Improved Safety and Code Compliance

Older electrical panels often lack modern safety features or are no longer compliant with the National Electrical Code. Panels from brands like Federal Pacific and Zinsco are known fire hazards and may even void your insurance coverage. Upgrading not only adds capacity—it brings your system up to current safety standards, reducing fire risks and ensuring proper grounding and arc fault protection.

4. More Circuit Space = Better Load Distribution

A modern 200-amp panel has more breaker slots, allowing for better circuit separation and balanced load distribution. This reduces strain on individual circuits and enhances overall system stability. In larger homes across Cheval, where lighting, HVAC, and kitchen appliances are often divided among multiple levels or zones, this is essential.

5. Enhanced Home Value and Insurance Approval

Real estate agents and insurance companies alike see modern panels as a sign of a well-maintained home. A 200-amp panel can make your home more attractive to buyers and reduce insurance premiums. In some cases, insurance providers may require panel upgrades as a condition for coverage—especially if your current panel is outdated, rusted, or unable to pass a 4-point inspection.

6. Whole-Home Surge Protection Compatibility

If you’re planning to install whole-home surge protection (highly recommended in Hillsborough County’s lightning-prone climate), a 200-amp panel gives you the flexibility and space to integrate it properly—offering superior protection for your electronics, HVAC system, and appliances.

7. Peace of Mind for the Long Term

With a 200-amp system, you won’t need to think twice about future tech upgrades, solar panel installations, or additional power needs. You’ll be set up for long-term reliability, stability, and efficiency—no matter how much your electrical usage evolves.

At ONYX Electric, we specialize in panel upgrades in communities like Cheval. We handle everything from permitting and code compliance to load calculations and inspection scheduling. Our electricians work cleanly and efficiently to minimize disruption to your home, and we’ll walk you through every option with clear, transparent pricing.

Don’t wait until your current panel fails or your insurance flags it. If your Cheval home still runs on a 100-amp system—or your 200-amp panel is overloaded or outdated—let’s evaluate your setup and recommend a safe, future-ready upgrade.

For homeowners in Cheval, FL, a professional electrical inspection is recommended every 3 to 5 years—or sooner if your home is older, undergoing renovations, or showing signs of electrical issues. With Cheval’s mix of upscale properties and aging infrastructure, routine inspections are one of the best ways to avoid costly repairs, ensure safety, and stay compliant with insurance or HOA requirements.

Here’s what to consider when deciding how often your Cheval home’s electrical system should be inspected:

1. Home Age Matters

If your home was built before 1990, or if it hasn’t had a recent electrical upgrade, your wiring, outlets, and panel may no longer meet today’s safety codes or capacity needs. Older systems are more vulnerable to fire hazards, inefficient grounding, and worn insulation. For these homes, inspections every 2–3 years are strongly advised.

2. Before & After Major Renovations

Whether you’re adding a new room, upgrading your kitchen, installing a pool, or converting to smart home tech, pre- and post-renovation inspections are essential. They ensure that your system can support the new electrical load safely and code-compliantly. Cheval’s upscale remodels often involve high-powered appliances, lighting systems, and EV chargers—all of which require careful circuit planning and load management.

3. Buying or Selling a Home

Most buyers—and their insurance companies—will require a 4-point inspection when purchasing a home in Cheval. These inspections include electrical evaluations that can make or break a real estate deal. If you’re preparing to sell, having a recent inspection done shows potential buyers your home is safe, well-maintained, and up to date.

4. After Power Surges, Lightning, or Flooding

Florida is one of the top states for lightning strikes and storm-related electrical damage. If your home experiences a power surge, flood, or electrical fire, schedule a licensed inspection immediately. Water and voltage spikes can damage hidden wiring, corrode outlets, or degrade your panel—creating long-term safety risks if not addressed.

5. Insurance & HOA Requirements

Some insurance providers now require updated electrical inspections to renew homeowner policies—especially if your panel is older, your wiring isn’t copper, or your home has a history of electrical issues. Similarly, some Cheval HOA communities may ask for documentation before approving renovations or generator installations.

What Does an Electrical Inspection Include?

At ONYX Electric, our full-system inspections cover:

• Panel condition and breaker function

• Proper grounding and bonding

• Wiring integrity and insulation

• GFCI and AFCI outlet checks

• Load balance and circuit mapping

• Code compliance based on NEC and Hillsborough County regulations

We provide a detailed report of findings, recommendations for improvements, and a clear explanation of any immediate safety concerns. If repairs are needed, we’ll walk you through your options, costs, and timelines—so there are no surprises.

The Bottom Line

A proactive electrical inspection is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your home, family, and investments. In a high-end neighborhood like Cheval, staying ahead of electrical issues means fewer emergencies, lower insurance premiums, and more peace of mind.

Don’t wait for warning signs. Whether you’re moving in, upgrading your panel, or just want peace of mind, schedule a licensed inspection with ONYX Electric today.