Ulster County and all of New York State have officially adopted the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC). If you are building, renovating, designing kitchens, or upgrading electrical service in the Hudson Valley, your projects must now comply with the 2023 NEC — not the 2017 code. For contractors, architects, kitchen designers, and homeowners, this shift affects: Electrical budgets Panel sizing Appliance wiring Island outlet design EV charger readiness Surge protection Service

A Practical, Code-Compliant Approach from Orr Lighting & Electric As homes become more electrified — heat pumps, induction ranges, EV chargers, battery storage, smart panels — questions about electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are becoming more common. Some homeowners identify as EMF-sensitive and report symptoms such as headaches, sleep disturbance, or general discomfort around certain electrical devices. At Orr Lighting & Electric, we approach this topic the same way we approach

The residential energy landscape is changing rapidly. Heat pumps are replacing fossil-fuel systems. Electric vehicles are becoming standard. Induction cooking is moving into high-end kitchens. Battery storage is entering mainstream design conversations. But none of it works without one critical component: Electrical infrastructure. At Orr Lighting & Electric, we specialize in preparing homes for full electrification — heat pumps, EV charging, induction ranges, battery storage

Electric vehicles are more than just a way to get from point A to point B—they can now serve as backup power plants for your home....

A Brief History of Residential Wiring in the United States By Orr Lighting and Electric When you flip a light switch or plug in your coffee maker, you’re relying on a system over a century in the making. The electrical wiring in American homes has evolved dramatically since the late 19th century—driven by advancements in technology, safety standards, and the increasing demand for power. This blog traces the major phases in residential wiring used in the U.S., explaining what

At Orr Lighting and Electric, we often get calls from homeowners worried about old electrical systems in their houses—particularly something called knob and tube wiring. If you live in an older home or are considering purchasing one, understanding what knob and tube wiring is, when it was used, and why it’s potentially hazardous is critical for the safety and future of your home. What is Knob and Tube Wiring? Knob and tube wiring (often abbreviated as K&T) is an early method

Upgrading your home’s electrical service isn’t just about getting more power — it’s about safety, compliance, and ensuring your...

If your home still has an old Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panel , it’s more than just outdated—it could be dangerous. Here’s why...

When it comes to electrical work, the lowest bid might seem like an easy choice—until unexpected costs, delays, and oversights start...

Upgrading your home’s electrical system is essential for safety, efficiency, and modern convenience. At Orr Lighting and Electric, the best

AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection is a vital safety feature that prevents electrical fires caused by dangerous arc faults in y

When a circuit shuts off, homeowners can take a few simple troubleshooting steps before calling an electrician. Start by checking any nearby

At Orr Lighting and Electric, we take pride in offering a wide array of electrical services to meet the diverse needs of our clients....

Looking for the best electrician in Woodstock or the best electrical service in Ulster County? At Orr Lighting and Electric, we’ve earned a

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection is essential for residential electrical safety, guarding against electric shocks from...