Answers to the questions we hear most about electrical in Barcelona. Anything else? Call 936 94 01 09.
General
How much does an electrician cost in Barcelona?
Diagnosis from €39, emergency call-out from €49. Fixed price before any work.
Do you speak English?
Yes, call or WhatsApp in English.
Are you authorised installers?
Certificates are issued by an installation company authorised in Catalonia.
How do I pay?
When the job is done, by card, Bizum or cash, always with an invoice.
Emergency electrician
What should I do first?
If there's a burning smell, switch off the main breaker. If there's smoke or fire, call 112.
Is the whole street out?
If the stairwell is also dark, it's the grid. We tell you on the phone so you don't pay for nothing.
Do you come at night?
Yes, every night, weekends and holidays included.
Electrical faults
Is my washing machine to blame?
Often yes. We test appliances separately before blaming the wiring.
Does insurance cover electrical damage?
Short circuits and power surges are often covered. The invoice with the cause helps.
How long does fault finding take?
Most faults are found within an hour.
Fuse boxes
How long does a new board take?
In a normal flat, a morning. Power is back the same day.
Do I need a certificate after?
If the installation changes significantly, yes. We tell you before.
How do I test my RCD?
Press the T button every few months. It should trip immediately.
Electrical certificate
Is it the same as the energy certificate?
No. The energy certificate rates efficiency; the CIE is only about the electrical installation.
Who registers it?
We do, and send it to you for the power company.
How long does it take?
Inspection in one visit; registration usually within a few days.
Sockets and switches
Can I change a socket myself?
With the circuit off and a voltage tester, yes. If it was burnt, have the cable checked.
Are USB sockets safe?
Yes, from a reputable brand and in a deep enough box.
Can you add an outdoor socket?
Yes, weatherproof and properly protected.
LED lighting
Can you fit a lamp I bought?
Yes. Tell us if it's heavy or the ceiling is plaster.
Warm or cool light?
Warm (2700-3000 K) for living rooms and bedrooms, neutral for kitchen and bathroom.
Do you do communal lighting?
Yes, stairwells and garages with motion sensors.
Electrical installations
Does rewiring mean building work?
Sometimes the old conduits can be reused; otherwise channels are cut and filled.
Do I need the community's permission for a charger?
You only need to notify it in writing before starting.
Do you issue a certificate?
Yes, when the work requires it, signed by an authorised installer.
Power upgrade
How much power do I need?
A flat with induction, oven and washing machine usually works with 4.6 to 5.75 kW.
Do I always need a certificate?
If your current one doesn't cover the new power, yes.
Can I lower it later?
Yes, though there may be a fee and a minimum time between changes.