About

Montgomery County’s Trunnell Electric Celebrates 75 Years

Rockville, MD (April 7, 2011) For 75 years, Trunnell Electric has been operating as a successful family owned business in the DC Metro area. Founded in 1936 by W.K. Trunnell, Sr. and then joined by brother L.B. “Dutch” Trunnell two years later, a tradition of electrical excellence has propelled the company ever since. Today, Dutch’s three sons—Lee, Rick, and Jack, along with grandson Brad—lead the firm.
Serving residential and commercial properties, small and large construction projects, the Trunnell trucks can be spotted from Fairfax to Frederick to Columbia, and many areas in between.
“We’ve been back numerous times over the years”
As Trunnell Electric reflects on its 75 years in business, the 1950’s and 60’s stand out as a key time for growth; it’s estimated that the company electrically wired around 65% of homes built in Bethesda, Chevy Chase and Upper Northwest in DC.  Lee Trunnell states, “We find that we are still working in homes that we originally wired as “new” back in the 60’s. For many of these, we’ve been back numerous times over the years upgrading electrical equipment and updating to the latest design trends such as recessed and specialty lighting.”
Older residents may recall Trunnell Electric’s lighting fixture showroom located on Wisconsin Avenue in downtown Bethesda with an impressive selection of over 400 light fixtures. Rick Trunnell comments, “in fact, we still occasionally get a call from an old timer who wants to know where we moved our showroom, even though we closed it in 1967!”
“You know when you deal with us – it’s my name on that truck”
Brad Trunnell states, “Customers today look for company accountability. You know when you deal with us – well it’s my name on that truck, that proposal & invoice. Personal responsibility, integrity and quality service aren’t just clichés — but concepts important to us and our customers.” The Washingtonian Magazine agrees; in March 2011 Trunnell Electric was selected for the fourth time on their preferred list of electrical contractors. Additionally, they were awarded the Angies List Super Service Citation for 2010.
A recent residential customer stated, “I never take risks with my electrical work. I’ve been using Trunnell for many years and trust them to keep my home and my family safe.”
“Decisions which suit both aesthetic and environmental needs”
Looking ahead Trunnell Electric has plans in place for how the family firm can further serve the residents and businesses of the DC Metro Area. Occupancy sensors and energy efficient lighting in businesses, and motion sensor type security lighting in homes are routinely requested. “Generators have been a large feature of our business for the last couple of years,” says Jack Trunnell. “In addition, homeowners are becoming more environmentally concerned and energy conscious. They want to consider options which save energy as well as money. We also see with larger electrical remodeling projects—such as kitchens and additions—that we work closely with both the design team and homeowner to help them make informed electrical decisions which suit both their aesthetic and environmental requirements.”
As Trunnell Electric celebrates their 75th Anniversary in 2011, the company continues its emphasis on delivery quality, reliable services along with a renewed community commitment with a family values perspective to ensure their success for another 75 years.
####
Trunnell Electric offers residential and commercial electrical contracting for the D.C. Metro Area and surrounding communities. Since 1936, local customers and businesses have praised their commitment to customer service, integrity, and accountability. Serving D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, Angie’s List recognized Trunnell Electric with a Super Service Award in 2010, and the Better Business Bureau gives them an A+ rating. Visit www.TrunnellElectric.com for more details or call 301/258-8300 for a quote.