Electricity powers everything from your bedside lamp to the massive production lines of a factory. But not all electrical systems—or the services that support them—are created equal. Residential, commercial, and industrial electrical services each have their own designs, requirements, safety standards, and applications. Understanding the differences can help property owners make informed decisions, ensure code compliance, and hire the right professionals for the job.
At Terrapin Electric, we specialize in all three sectors. Based in Austin, we bring deep experience, licensed expertise, and a client-first approach to homes, businesses, and industrial facilities across Central Texas. Whether you’re building from scratch, upgrading an outdated system, or planning future-ready electrical infrastructure, knowing which category your project falls into is the first step.
What Are Residential Electrical Services?
Residential electrical services cover everything related to single-family homes, duplexes, townhomes, and apartment buildings. These systems are designed to deliver reliable, safe electricity for everyday household use. That includes lighting, outlets, HVAC connections, appliances, EV chargers, solar panels, and smart home tech.
Most residential systems use single-phase power, typically with a 120/240-volt service. Panels generally range from 100 to 200 amps and are sized based on household load demands. Code requirements come from the National Electrical Code (NEC) with local amendments enforced by the City of Austin.
At Terrapin Electric, our residential services include:
New Home Wiring
For newly constructed homes, we provide complete electrical layout design and wiring. This includes rough-in and finish work for outlets, switches, lighting, and circuit panels. We coordinate with builders and inspectors to ensure the installation meets modern energy codes, accommodates future tech needs, and passes final inspection with ease.
Service Panel Upgrades
As homes evolve, so do their power requirements. Many older homes in Austin still operate on outdated 100-amp panels. We upgrade panels to 200 amps or more to accommodate high-efficiency appliances, EV chargers, and whole-home HVAC systems. A properly sized panel improves safety and performance while reducing breaker trips.
Lighting and Fixture Installation
From under-cabinet kitchen lighting to dramatic chandeliers and ceiling fans, we handle all types of residential lighting installs. We help you choose fixtures that match your design vision, ensure proper wiring and code compliance, and can integrate dimmers, timers, and motion sensors to enhance energy savings and ambiance.
Surge Protection
Whole-home surge protection is an essential safeguard against Austin’s unpredictable storms and power fluctuations. We install panel-mounted surge devices that protect your electronics, appliances, and HVAC systems from damaging voltage spikes caused by lightning or utility events.
Recessed Lighting
Recessed or “can” lights provide sleek, efficient illumination throughout the home. We design and install recessed lighting layouts customized for kitchens, living rooms, bathrooms, and hallways—balancing form and function while ensuring proper spacing, beam angle, and insulation contact (IC) rating.
EV Charger Installation
As electric vehicles become more common, so does the need for residential charging. We install Level 2 EV chargers with dedicated circuits, ensuring your electrical system is up to the task. We also confirm compatibility with utility rebates and assist with permitting.
Smart Home and Low-Voltage Integration
From smart thermostats and security systems to whole-home audio and lighting automation, we wire and configure your home for seamless control. Our electricians work with your device manufacturer or integrator to ensure reliability and optimal performance.
Whole-Home Generator Systems
For homeowners who want peace of mind during outages, we install standby generators with automatic transfer switches. These systems keep your lights, appliances, and HVAC running even when the grid goes down—essential for Austin’s unpredictable weather.
We also handle all permitting, inspection coordination, and future-proof planning so your system remains safe and compliant as your household evolves.
What Are Commercial Electrical Services?
Commercial services are built for businesses—offices, retail spaces, restaurants, gyms, and more. These systems often require higher capacity, more circuits, advanced lighting controls, and tailored power distribution to support point-of-sale systems, HVAC zones, refrigeration units, and other commercial-grade equipment.
Unlike residential properties, commercial buildings may use three-phase power for efficiency and load balancing. Voltage can range from 120/208 to 277/480 volts depending on the building size and function. Code requirements are more stringent in areas like emergency lighting, accessibility, and exit signage.
At Terrapin Electric, our commercial services include:
Tenant Finish-Outs and Remodels
Whether you’re outfitting a new retail space, updating an office, or reconfiguring a restaurant, we provide electrical solutions tailored to your layout and workflow. We install outlets, lighting, panels, and control systems based on your specific needs—while ensuring your buildout meets city and state codes.
Energy-Efficient Lighting Design and Retrofits
We design commercial lighting systems that reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills without compromising performance. We retrofit outdated fluorescent or HID systems with LEDs, install motion sensors, daylight harvesting controls, and automated systems to create smart, sustainable spaces.
Emergency Backup Systems
Businesses can’t afford to go dark. We install backup power systems and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) that maintain essential services during outages. For larger spaces, we integrate commercial-grade standby generators with automatic transfer switches.
Subpanel and Circuit Installations
Expanding your space or adding equipment? We install new subpanels, breakers, and dedicated circuits to support IT rooms, machinery, commercial kitchens, and more. Our load calculations ensure the system can handle new demand safely.
Security and Access Control Wiring
From security lighting and cameras to access card systems and intercoms, we provide the wiring infrastructure for physical security. We collaborate with your integrator or provide turnkey installations that meet code and performance expectations.
Commercial-Grade Surge and Power Conditioning
Protecting POS systems, HVAC controllers, refrigeration equipment, and communication hardware from surges is essential. We install whole-building surge protection and power conditioning systems that stabilize voltage and reduce downtime due to power fluctuations.
Preventive Maintenance and Load Testing
Ongoing maintenance reduces the risk of unexpected outages and extends the life of your electrical system. We offer thermal imaging, breaker testing, panel cleaning, and load monitoring for preventative insight and early detection of issues.
We also work closely with general contractors, architects, and business owners to deliver work that’s not just code-compliant, but also designed to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency.
What Are Industrial Electrical Services?
Industrial electrical systems support manufacturing plants, processing facilities, distribution centers, and similar high-demand environments. These are the most complex and power-intensive systems, often requiring three-phase service at 480 volts or higher, heavy-duty equipment wiring, and integration with control systems like PLCs (programmable logic controllers).
Safety and uptime are top priorities in industrial settings. These facilities may operate 24/7 and rely on electrical infrastructure to power automation systems, robotics, motors, conveyors, and specialty machinery. Industrial services demand specialized training and the ability to work under strict OSHA safety protocols.
At Terrapin Electric, our industrial services include:
Motor Controls and VFD Installations
We install and maintain motor control systems that manage speed, torque, and energy usage. Variable frequency drives (VFDs) are essential for optimizing performance and reducing wear on motors, especially in systems that require precise control or frequent start-stops.
Control Panel Wiring
Whether you need a new control system or an upgrade to an existing one, we wire and integrate PLCs, HMIs, and automation relays. Our work supports process consistency and simplifies troubleshooting by ensuring organized, labeled wiring layouts.
Industrial Lighting
We design and install high-bay, task, and emergency lighting solutions built for large-scale environments. Proper lighting improves visibility, safety, and productivity while reducing energy costs through efficient LED retrofits and controls.
Equipment Connections and Disconnections
When it’s time to install or remove heavy machinery, we ensure safe, code-compliant connections and lockout/tagout coordination. From welding units to CNC machines, we handle every voltage and amperage requirement.
Power Distribution Upgrades
Industrial operations often outgrow their original electrical infrastructure. We expand or reconfigure power distribution systems to accommodate growth, add redundancy, and support future automation investments.
Preventive and Predictive Maintenance
Downtime in industrial settings can be costly. We offer thermal imaging, breaker analysis, torque testing, and insulation resistance testing to catch issues before they cause failures. Scheduled maintenance keeps your system efficient and reduces unexpected repairs.
Troubleshooting and Emergency Response
When something goes wrong, every second counts. Our team responds quickly to diagnose and repair electrical faults, whether it’s a motor failure, control issue, or system outage. We bring the tools and experience to get you back online fast.
Because downtime in these settings can cost thousands per hour, we prioritize fast diagnostics, long-term reliability, and scalable design. Terrapin Electric is your partner for high-performance, code-compliant, and production-ready electrical solutions.
Key Differences at a Glance
While residential, commercial, and industrial systems may share similar components—wires, breakers, panels—their differences come down to scale, complexity, and application:
- Power Needs: Residential is low to moderate; commercial is moderate to high; industrial is very high.
- Voltage: Residential typically uses 120/240V; commercial uses 120/208V or 277/480V; industrial often requires custom configurations above 480V.
- Wiring Design: Residential wiring is relatively straightforward; commercial wiring involves multiple circuits and panelboards; industrial systems include specialized feeders, busways, and controls.
- Safety Requirements: All sectors must follow NEC guidelines, but commercial and industrial systems involve additional fire, accessibility, and machine safety codes.
- Permitting and Inspection: All work must be inspected, but commercial and industrial permits often require engineered plans, detailed load calculations, and phased approvals.
- Service Response: Residential service calls often address comfort or convenience; commercial and industrial calls are more urgent due to productivity or operational safety.
How Terrapin Electric Bridges the Gap
At Terrapin Electric, we understand that each type of electrical system demands a different mindset and method. That’s why our electricians are cross-trained and licensed across sectors, with deep knowledge of Austin’s specific code requirements and permitting procedures.
We don’t just install wiring—we build relationships. Our teams are responsive, respectful, and committed to craftsmanship, no matter the size or scope of your project. We show up when we say we will, leave the worksite clean, and make sure every circuit we touch meets the highest standard of safety and performance.
Which Service Do You Need?
If you’re unsure whether your project falls into residential, commercial, or industrial territory, Terrapin Electric can help. We start every job with a consultation to learn about your goals, review your property, and determine the best path forward.
Whether you’re rewiring a home in Hyde Park, finishing out a retail space on South Lamar, or expanding an industrial facility in Pflugerville, we’ve got the team, tools, and talent to make it happen.
Got Electrical Questions? Contact Us Today
Whether you’re upgrading a service panel in a South Austin home, outfitting a new retail space downtown, or troubleshooting machinery in a production facility, we tailor our services to fit your specific needs. We handle everything from permits and inspections to smart system integration and energy-saving upgrades, always with an eye toward long-term performance and safety.
When you choose Terrapin Electric, you get more than an electrical contractor—you get a trusted partner committed to doing the job right, the first time. We pride ourselves on fast response times, clear communication, and craftsmanship that stands the test of time. Ready to get started? Let’s talk about your project and map out the best solution together. Contact Terrapin Electric today to schedule your consultation and discover what it means to work with Austin’s go-to team for residential, commercial, and industrial electrical services.
