Residential Energy Efficiency Upgrades in Altadena
Professional Energy Efficiency Upgrades services for Altadena homes and businesses. Expert electrical installation with fire-resistant design, modern safety features, and full code compliance.
Our Work
Benefits
Future-ready, resilient homes
We design energy efficiency upgrades with tomorrow—and Altadena’s unique challenges—in mind. From Lutron and Leviton smart dimmers, occupancy/vacancy sensors, and learning thermostats (Nest, ecobee, Honeywell Home) to whole-home energy monitoring platforms (Sense, Emporia), we deploy technology that’s reliable, scalable, and integrates with voice assistants and home automation systems. Load calculations account for EV charging (Level 2, 40–80A circuits), induction ranges, heat pump HVAC and water heaters, and future solar+storage. We design panels with headroom for backup power systems (generator or battery) and configure circuits for critical load separation, so your home is ready for whatever comes next—whether that’s electrification, energy independence, or resilience during PSPS events.
Permits and Title 24 expertise
Shaffer Construction manages all Altadena electrical permitting through LA County Building and Safety, including plan preparation, Title 24 energy compliance documentation (CF1R forms, lighting schedules, controls narratives), and coordination of required acceptance testing. We handle load calculations, single-line diagrams, panel schedules, and photometric studies (if needed for exterior lighting) to ensure fast approval. Whether you’re rebuilding after the Eaton Fire or retrofitting a historic craftsman, expect full compliance with California Energy Code (Title 24, JA8/JA10), California Electrical Code, and wildfire safety best practices—with GFCI, AFCI, tamper-resistant receptacles, proper grounding, labeling, and as-builts that pass the first time.
Premium materials, built to last
We use JA8-compliant LED fixtures (canless recessed, surface, pendant, and period-appropriate styles for historic homes), IC-rated airtight recessed cans to prevent energy loss in vented attics, and smart dimmers matched to LED drivers for flicker-free, silent operation. Copper conductors throughout, UL-listed enclosures, Type 2 whole-house surge protection at the panel, and additional point-of-use protection for sensitive electronics. For hillside properties, we use corrosion-resistant hardware and verify torque on all terminations per NEC and manufacturer specs. In fire recovery projects, all materials meet current code and are selected for long service life, safety, and performance in Altadena’s hot, dry summers and occasional Santa Ana wind conditions.
Customized energy planning
Every Altadena home is unique—from 1910 craftsman bungalows to 2025 fire recovery rebuilds. We start with a comprehensive on-site assessment, reviewing your existing (or planned) panel, circuits, lighting, insulation, and HVAC. For rebuilds, we collaborate with your architect, designer, and general contractor from the design phase to integrate efficiency seamlessly. For retrofits, we inventory lighting, check attic conditions, measure panel capacity, and assess opportunities for smart controls and monitoring. We listen to how you live: work-from-home schedules, cooling needs in summer heat, EV charging plans, entertainment systems, and smart home goals. Then we model energy use, savings, and ROI, presenting a clear, prioritized plan with options, costs, incentives, and expected payback—so you can make informed decisions aligned with your budget, values, and vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit in Altadena for lighting and smart control upgrades?+
Yes, most electrical work including new circuits, fixture additions, panel modifications, and control installations require permits from LA County Building and Safety. Simple lamp replacements (like-for-like) may not require a permit, but any new wiring, circuit changes, or fixture type changes do. Fire recovery rebuilds require full plan review. We handle all permit preparation, submissions, and inspections to keep you compliant and on schedule.
How long will my energy efficiency project take?+
Retrofit projects typically take 2–5 days for installation, with 2–6 weeks for permit review depending on complexity. Fire recovery rebuild projects run on your construction schedule; electrical rough-in is coordinated with framing and insulation, and finish work follows drywall and painting. We work efficiently, protect all areas, communicate daily, and minimize disruption whether you’re living in the home or coordinating with your general contractor.
Will my existing dimmers work with new LED lights?+
Usually not. Most older dimmers were designed for incandescent bulbs and cause flicker, buzzing, limited dimming range, or premature LED failure. We install JA8-compliant LED fixtures and pair them with compatible smart dimmers (Lutron, Leviton) that provide smooth, silent, flicker-free dimming from 100% down to 1%. We test every zone and program fade rates to ensure a premium lighting experience throughout your home.
Can you upgrade my old 60A or 100A panel?+
Absolutely. Many Altadena homes from the early-to-mid 20th century have undersized or obsolete panels (Zinsco, Federal Pacific, or ancient fused panels). We’ll perform a comprehensive load calculation, recommend a modern 200A or 400A panel upgrade, add whole-house surge protection, install GFCI/AFCI breakers where required, and properly label all circuits. We’ll size capacity to support current needs plus EV charging, major appliances, and future solar or battery storage—eliminating the need for costly future upgrades.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us today for a free consultation and quote on your electrical project!
Contact Us