electrician8e7ea9a1

HVAC Maintenance Tips To Heat Up Your Valentine’s Day

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 10:35:00 GMT

HVAC Maintenance Tips To Heat Up Your Valentine’s Day

Love your HVAC unit this Valentine’s Day, because let’s face it – nothing warms your heart quite like a furnace. Here are 5 HVAC maintenance tips to follow.

1. Seal Your Windows [WITH A KISS]

2. Commit To Energy Savings

3. Make Sure Love Is The Only Thing In The Air

Top Reasons You Should Have A Plumbing Inspection Before Buying A Home

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 10:36:00 GMT

Top Reasons You Should Have A Plumbing Inspection Before Buying A Home

Looking to buy a new home this year? A home is a major investment, so you want to make sure you’re dotting all your i’s and crossing all your t’s before doing so! There may be some serious plumbing issues you are unaware of, and they could end up costing you a lot of time and money if you choose to forgo a plumbing inspection.

Contrary to popular belief, older homes aren’t the only ones that can experience plumbing issues. In fact, newer homes are just as at risk. Whether you’re buying an older home or a newer home, make sure you schedule a plumbing inspection. It’s so important before signing any papers – and here are the top reasons why.

1. Lost Time

Plumbing issues can cost you more than just money – it can also cost you time. And time is not something you can get back! With the repeated plumber visits and having to deal with all these plumbing issues means you might miss work, or you might lose precious time with your family and friends.

2. Hidden Pipe Leaks

When you first toured the house, you probably saw no obvious plumbing issues that caught your eye. After all, you likely would have asked some questions before you bought the house if something didn’t seem right. However, a lot of plumbing issues aren’t easily noticeable – such as hidden pipe leaks. During a plumbing inspection, a plumber will inspect all areas of the house, including under cabinets, outdoor pipes, exposed pipes, basement pipes, and in the walls, floors, and ceilings for any signs of hidden pipe leaks.

3. Late Discovery Of Issues

The later you wait to address plumbing problems, the worse they become. If you forgo a plumbing inspection, you could move in only to find some serious plumbing issues – like a leaky toilet, a burst pipe, or water heater issues. When a plumbing problem is discovered too late, it can end up costing you more money and could even cause damage to your new home.

4. Expensive Surprises

Anyone who has bought a house can agree on one thing – it’s not cheap! There’s nothing worse than buying a house and moving in to find out there’s a ton of plumbing issues that need fixing. Before you bought the house, you may not have known you needed an entire septic system replacement, or that the pipes were old, rusted and corroded and also need replacing. These are all things a plumber is able to catch during an inspection, so you can avoid expensive surprises upon move in day.

Buying A Home This Year? Contact The Pros At 247 Local Electrician To Schedule Your Plumbing Inspection in Milwaukee, WI and Surrounding Areas

With a 4.8 star rating, you can trust the pros at 247 Local Electrician to take care of all your plumbing needs in Milwaukee, WI and surrounding areas. Give us a call today at (833) 220-2525 or contact us online here. We are here to help!

6 Dangerous Electrical Myths You Should Stop Believing Right Now

Sun, 12 Nov 2023 10:40:00 GMT

6 Dangerous Electrical Myths You Should Stop Believing Right Now

Believing some of these myths can be dangerous, and even deadly. Electricity isn’t something you want to take a chance with. Here are the top 6 dangerous electrical myths you should stop believing right now.

1. MYTH: Wood Is Not A Conductor

Busted: While it’s true that wood is a poor conductor of electricity, you need to be careful about wood that is wet. Water does conduct electricity, so wood that is wet or even just damp, can still pose a risk to your safety.

2. Myth: Extension Cords Can Be Used as a forever solution

Busted: According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International , approximately 3,300 home fires are caused by damaged or faulty extension cords each year. While extension cords are great to use temporarily, they shouldn’t be used as a forever solution. Long-term use of extension cords can cause the insulation to deteriorate which is what could cause a fire.

3. MYTH: Only Old Wiring Can Go Bad

Busted: This belief can be dangerous, as many homeowners don’t think to check on their wiring if it’s new. However, new wiring can go bad just as easily as old wiring can. Rodents and circuit overload are just a couple of the things that can cause new wiring to go bad quickly. That’s why having your electrical wires maintained and inspected regularly is important.

4. MYTH: Rubber Gloves and Shoes Insulate

Busted: Only 100% pure rubber insulates. More often than not, your gloves and shoes are mixed with cheaper materials and aren’t typically 100% rubber. Many people believe that if they wear rubber gloves or shoes, they are safe to handle electricity on their own. Your rubber gloves and shoes are likely conductors of electricity if not 100% rubber. It’s best to leave all electrical tasks to professionals who have the proper gear, equipment and expertise to handle it safely.

5. MYTH: HOUSEHOLD CURRENTS AREN’T STRONG ENOUGH TO HARM YOU

Busted: As much as we’d like to think the electricity in our homes isn’t dangerous, it most certainly is. This electricity becomes especially dangerous and even fatal when it comes in contact with water. That’s why many electricians recommend having GFCI outlets installed in their home, wherever water is present – such as your bathroom and kitchen.

6. MYTH: A LIVE WIRE WILL ALWAYS SPARK WHEN IT FALLS

Busted: Contrary to popular belief, a live wire won’t always leave sparks behind. You might think if a wire didn’t spike, it’s fine to touch because it’s not live. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Whether a live wire sparks or not when it calls, it could still be carrying its electrical charge. Touching it could be fatal. It’s better to be safe than sorry and never touch a wire – live or not.

Contact The Pros At 247 Local Electrician For All Your Electrical Needs in Milwaukee, WI and Surrounding Areas

With a 4.8 star rating, you can trust the pros at 247 Local Electrician to take care of all your electrical needs in Milwaukee, WI and surrounding areas this holiday. Give us a call today at(833) 220-2525 or contact us online here. We are here to help!

Your Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist For Your Plumbing System

Sat, 11 Nov 2023 10:36:00 GMT

Your Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist For Your Plumbing System

Spring is here, which means it’s time to start thinking about maintenance tasks you can complete around your home! While we are all probably thinking about landscaping, home renovation projects, decluttering cabinets and drawers, and the typical spring cleaning stuff, there’s one thing we don’t think much about – our plumbing system. Here are the top 5 plumbing items to add to your spring cleaning checklist this year.

1. Check For Leaks

According to the EPA , the average household’s leaks account for about 10,000 gallons of water wasted per year – and 10% of homes have leaks that waste about 90 gallons of water each day. Not only can leaks lead to skyrocketing water bills, but it can also lead to water damage if not taken care of quickly. Unfortunately, some leaks are hidden and not as obvious as one might think. That’s why it’s important to know the signs of leaks, such as:

2. Inspect Your Drains

Have you noticed water backing up in your sink? Low water pressure? By catching problems early with your drains, you can eliminate expensive repairs or further damage to your pipes. If you’re concerned there might be a clog in your drain, avoid using chemical drain cleaner or bent wire hangers to fix the problem. Instead, contact a professional drain cleaner who will remove the clog for you, clean your drains, and do so without causing damage to your pipes.

3. Clean Your Garbage Disposal

Over time, your garbage disposal can start to smell and decrease in efficiency. By cleaning it regularly, however, you can keep it running smoothly, keep your kitchen smelling fresh, and prevent odors and debris from building up. A good way to clean your garbage disposal includes using baking soda, vinegar, and running water.

4. Inspect Your Toilet

When you are scrubbing your bathtub and sinks this spring, make sure you are also paying attention to your toilet. If you notice any leaks, worn out parts, or parts that need to be adjusted, contact a plumber right away. Sometimes with toilets, it can be tough to spot a leak. Just because you don’t see water around your toilet, doesn’t mean there’s not a problem. One good way to inspect your toilet for leaks is to do the food coloring trick. Put food coloring in the toilet bowl and wait. If the toilet water is clear after 30 minutes, then it means you have a leak.

5. Have Your Plumbing System Maintained Professionally

Having a professional plumber maintain your system annually is a great way to ensure everything is in good, working condition. Maintenance can prevent major plumbing problems, catch problems early on, and avoid expensive issues in the long run.

Contact247 Local Electrician Today! We Are Here For All Your Plumbing Needs In Milwaukee, WI and Surrounding Areas

6 Ways To Clean Up Electrical Safety Hazards At Home

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 17:38:00 GMT

6 Ways To Clean Up Electrical Safety Hazards At Home

Electricity is an essential part of our daily lives, but it can also be extremely dangerous if not properly handled. Electrical safety hazards at home are a common occurrence, and it’s important to take steps to prevent them. Here are 6 ways to clean up electrical safety hazards at home.

1. Keep Cords and Wires Tidy

One of the most common electrical safety hazards is loose cords and wires. They can pose a tripping hazard and be damaged easily. Make sure that cords and wires are neatly organized and secured in place. Consider even using cable ties or clips to keep them out of the way. Also, remember to never run cords or wires under carpets and rugs.

2. Inspect Electrical Appliances

Electrical appliances are the biggest contributors to electrical safety hazards at home. You should be inspecting electrical appliances regularly for any signs of wear and tear, such as frayed cords, cracked casings, or other damage. If you notice anything unusual, unplug the appliance and repair it or replace it right away.

3. Use Surge Protectors

Surge protectors can protect your expensive electrical devices from power surges, which can cause some serious damage. Install surge protectors on all your electrical outlets to safeguard your electronics and appliances from potential damage caused by sudden voltage spikes.

4. Install GFCI Outlets

GFCI outlets, otherwise known as ground-fault circuit interrupters, are an important safety feature in areas where water is present – like your kitchen or bathroom. GFCI’s are designed to detect imbalances in the electrical current and can shut off power before an electric shock can occur.

5. Keep Electrical Panels and Circuit Breakers Accessible

Is your electrical panel and circuit breaker easily accessible? Both of these thing are crucial components of your home’s electrical system. You want to not only make sure they’re easily accessible, but that they are also labeled correctly and free from obstructions. If you need to access the electrical panel, make sure you turn off the power to the area you’re working on. To play it safe, however, it’s always a good idea to enlist the help of a professional. That brings us to our 6th tip.

6. Hire A Licensed Electrician

If you’re not sure about the safety of your electrical system or you need any repairs, hire a licensed electrician. Attempting DIY projects when it comes to your electrical system can be dangerous. A professional can perform a comprehensive inspection of your home’s electrical system and make any necessary repairs to ensure your home is safe from electrical hazards.

Contact 247 Local Electrician Today For All Your Electrical Needs in Milwaukee, WI and Surrounding Areas

With a 4.8 star rating, you can trust the pros at 247 Local Electrician to take care of all your electrical needs in Milwaukee, WI and surrounding areas this holiday. Give us a call today at (833) 220-2525 or contact us online here. We are here to help!

Should I Repair Or Replace My Toilet?

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 17:39:00 GMT

Should I Repair Or Replace My Toilet?

A toilet is a critical component of your plumbing system – and one of the most essential fixtures in your home. Whether you’re dealing with a constant leak or just looking to upgrade your bathroom (hello, spring projects), you may be wondering whether to repair or replace your toilet. A lot of time, repairing your toilet is the quickest and most cost-effective solution. However, there are situations where replacement is the obviously better choice. In this blog, we will discuss whether you should repair or replace your toilet.

When To Repair Your Toilet

Repairing your toilet is often the better choice if you’re dealing with only minor issues that can be fixed with a few simple adjustments. Here are some situations where you might find repairing your toilet to be the best choice.

1. Clogs

If your toilet is clogged, usually that’s a sign of a blockage in your pipes. You can usually fix this issue by using a plunger or a toilet auger.

2. Running Toilet

If your toilet keeps running, it’s likely because the flapper valve isn’t properly sealed. This is an easy fix and usually just requires a replacement part.

3. Leaks

Does your toilet just keep constantly leaking? This is often a sign that the wax seal at the base of your toilet is damaged. Luckily, this can typically be replaced without having to replace the whole toilet.

4. Loose Toilet Seat

There’s nothing like sitting down on a loose toilet seat! If your seat is loose, it’s most likely because the bolts that hold it in place are loose. Tightening the bolts should do the trick!

When To Replace Your Toilet

Sometimes, replacing your toilet is the better and most cost-effective option. Some situations that warrant a toilet replacement include:

1. Old Age

Like with any appliance, age plays a huge factor in whether to repair or replace it. If your toilet is over 15 years old, it’s probably not as efficient as newer models. Replacing it with a newer, more efficient toilet will save you money on your water bill.

2. Constant Repairs

You shouldn’t have your plumber on speed dial! If you’re constantly having to repair your toilet, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to just replace it. Over time, the cost of repairs adds up.

3. Cracks

If your toilet has cracks in the bowl or the tank, it’s time to replace it. Cracks can lead to other problems, such as leaks, that can be expensive to repair.

4. Style

Spring has sprung and many homeowners are looking to start some home renovation projects. If your bathroom is on the list and you’re looking to upgrade it, then replacing your toilet with a newer, more modern model will give your bathroom a fresh, updated look.

Contact The Team At 247 Local Electrician For All Your Plumbing Needs in Milwaukee, WI and Surrounding Areas

5 Reasons To Schedule An Electrical Safety Inspection Today

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 17:41:00 GMT

5 Reasons To Schedule An Electrical Safety Inspection Today

Electrical safety inspections are essential to ensure the safety of your home. Electrical problems can cause serious damage and even death, so it’s important to schedule an inspection regularly. In this blog, we’ll discuss 5 reasons why you should schedule an electrical safety inspection today.

1. Avoid Electrical Fires

One of the most significant reasons to schedule an electrical safety inspection is to prevent electrical fires. Electrical fires can be devastating and are often caused by faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or damaged electrical appliances. An electrical safety inspection can identify potential problems before they cause a fire, giving you the opportunity to fix them before it’s too late.

2. Protect Your Appliances

Faulty wiring can cause damage to your appliances, resulting in costly repairs or replacements. An electrical safety inspection can help to identify any issues that could be causing damage to your appliances. This will help you to make repairs or replacements as needed, ensuring that your appliances last longer and operate efficiently.

3. Save Money on Energy Bills

Electrical safety inspections can also help you save money on your energy bills. Faulty wiring or outdated electrical systems can cause your energy bills to skyrocket. An inspection can identify areas where energy is being wasted and recommend solutions to reduce your energy usage, ultimately lowering your energy bills.

4. Ensure Compliance With Electrical Codes

Electrical safety inspections are also important to ensure that your electrical system is in compliance with electrical codes. These codes are designed to keep you safe and prevent electrical accidents. An inspection can help to identify any areas where you may not be in compliance and recommend solutions to bring your system up to code.

5. Peace Of Mind

Finally, scheduling an electrical safety inspection can give you peace of mind. Knowing that your electrical system is safe and up to code can help you sleep better at night. It can also give you confidence in the safety of your home and prevent you from worrying about potential electrical problems.

Contact 247 Local Electrician Today! We Are Here For All Your Electrical Needs In Milwaukee, WI and Surrounding Areas

Scheduling an electrical safety inspection is essential to ensure the safety of your home. It can prevent electrical fires, protect your appliances, save you money on energy bills, ensure compliance with electrical codes, and give you peace of mind. So, don’t wait any longer. Schedule an electrical safety inspection today and rest easy knowing that your electrical system is safe and reliable.

With a 4.8 star rating, you can trust the pros at 247 Local Electrician to take care of all your electrical needs in Milwaukee, WI and surrounding areas. Give us a call today at 247 Local Electrician or contact us online here. We are here to help!

Top 6 Energy Saving Tips To Celebrate World Environment Day

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 17:42:00 GMT

Top 6 Energy Saving Tips To Celebrate World Environment Day

In today’s world, energy conservation has become a critical issue. With the world’s energy demands continually increasing, it is important to take steps towards reducing our energy consumption. World Environment Day, celebrated on June 5th, is the perfect time to reflect on our energy use and take actions to save it. Here are 6 electrical energy-saving tips that can help us celebrate World Environment Day.

1. Make The Switch To Energy-Efficient Lighting

One of the easiest ways to save energy is to switch to energy-efficient lighting, such as LED lights. According To The U.S. Department Of Energy , these bulbs use at least 75% less energy than traditional bulbs, and they last up to 25 times longer than incandescent lighting. By replacing all the bulbs in your home with LED bulbs, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption.

2. Use Power Strips

Power strips are an excellent way to save energy. They allow you to turn off multiple electronics at once, ensuring that they aren’t wasting energy in standby mode. By plugging your electronics into a power strip and turning it off when not in use, you can save a significant amount of energy.

3. Unplug Electronics When They’re Not In Use

Electronics such as phone chargers, laptops, and TVs continue to use energy even when not in use. Unplugging these electronics when not in use can save a considerable amount of energy. To make it more convenient, consider using smart power strips that automatically turn off the power to your electronics when they are not in use.

4. Install A Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is an excellent investment that can save you energy and money in the long run. By setting the thermostat to adjust the temperature when you are away from home or sleeping, you can reduce your energy consumption by up to 10%.

5. Upgrade To Energy-Efficient Appliances

Older appliances tend to use more energy than their newer counterparts. By upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption. Look for appliances that have earned the ENERGY STAR label, as they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

6. Conduct An Energy Audit

An energy audit can help you identify areas in your home that are using excessive energy. By having a professional energy auditor evaluate your home, you can learn about the areas where you can save energy and make changes to reduce your energy consumption.

Contact 247 Local Electrician Today For All Your Electrical Needs In Milwaukee, WI and Surrounding Areas

With a 4.8 star rating, you can trust the pros at 247 Local Electrician to take care of all your electrical maintenance, repair, replacement, and installation needs in Milwaukee, WI and surrounding areas. Give us a call today at (833) 220-2525 or contact us online here. We are here to help!

How Best To Prepare Your Air Conditioner For Summer: Top 5 Tips

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 17:44:00 GMT

How Best To Prepare Your Air Conditioner For Summer: Top 5 Tips

As the summer months approach, it’s important to prepare your air conditioner for the increased workload. With proper maintenance and preparation, you can ensure that your air conditioning system runs efficiently and effectively throughout the summer months. In this blog, we’ll cover the top 5 tips for preparing your air conditioner for summer.

1. Change The Air Filters

One of the most important steps in preparing your air conditioner for summer is changing the air filters. Air filters are responsible for trapping dust, dirt, and other airborne particles, preventing them from circulating in your home. Over time, these filters can become clogged, reducing your system’s efficiency and airflow.

Before the summer season begins, it’s essential to replace your air filters. Most filters need to be changed every three months, but if you have pets or allergies, you may need to change them more frequently (such as every month). By changing your air filters, you’ll improve your system’s efficiency, reduce energy costs, and promote better indoor air quality.

2. Clean The Condenser Coils

The condenser coils on your air conditioning system are responsible for releasing heat from your home. Over time, these coils can become caked with dirt and debris, reducing your system’s efficiency and increasing your energy costs.

To clean your condenser coils, turn off the power to your system and remove any debris around the unit. Then, using a soft brush or vacuum cleaner, gently clean the coils to remove any dirt or debris. You may also want to consider hiring a professional to clean your coils to ensure that they’re thoroughly cleaned and inspected.

3. Check The Coolant Levels

The coolant in your air conditioning system is responsible for absorbing heat from your home and releasing it outside. If your system is low on coolant, it can’t effectively cool your home, and you may notice that your system is running more often than usual.

Before the summer season begins, it’s essential to check your system’s coolant levels. If you notice that your coolant levels are low, you may need to call a professional to recharge your system.

4. Check The Thermostat

Your thermostat is responsible for regulating your home’s temperature and ensuring that your system runs efficiently. Before the summer season begins, it’s important to check your thermostat to ensure that it’s working correctly.

First, check the batteries to ensure that they’re not dead or low. Then, set the thermostat to a temperature that’s lower than the current temperature in your home. If you notice that your system isn’t turning on or isn’t maintaining the desired temperature, you may need to replace your thermostat.

5. Schedule Professional Maintenance

While there are many things that you can do to prepare your air conditioning system for summer, it’s essential to schedule professional maintenance. Professional maintenance ensures that your system is running at peak efficiency and can help identify any potential problems before they become major issues.

During a maintenance appointment, a professional will inspect your system, clean the components, check the coolant levels, and perform any necessary repairs or replacements. By scheduling professional maintenance before the summer season begins, you can ensure that your air conditioning system is ready to keep you cool and comfortable all summer long.

Call On 247 Local Electrician Today For All Your Air Conditioning Needs In Milwaukee, WI and Surrounding Areas

With a 4.8 star rating, you can trust the pros at 247 Local Electrician to take care of all your AC maintenance, repair, replacement, and installation needs in Milwaukee, WI and surrounding areas. Give us a call today at (833) 220-2525 or contact us online here. We are here to help!

7 Electrical Safety Tips To Follow This Summer

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 17:45:00 GMT

7 Electrical Safety Tips To Follow This Summer

Summer is officially here, and many people are excited to spend time outdoors, enjoying the warm weather. However, it’s important to remember that electrical safety is just as important during the summer as it is any other time of year. Here are 7 electrical safety tips to follow this summer to keep you and your loved ones safe.

1. Inspect Electrical Cords and Outlets Before Use

Before plugging in any electrical devices, inspect the cords and outlets to ensure they are not damaged. Look for signs of fraying or cracking, and make sure the outlets are not loose or damaged. Never use cords or outlets that appear to be damaged, as they could be a serious safety hazard.

2. Keep Electrical Devices Away From Water

Water and electricity do not mix, so it’s important to keep electrical devices away from water sources. This includes not using any electrical devices near swimming pools, hot tubs, or other sources of water. If you need to use an electrical device outdoors, make sure it is rated for outdoor use and follow all manufacturer instructions.

3. Use GFCI Outlets

Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets are designed to prevent electrical shock by shutting off the power if there is a ground fault. Make sure any outdoor outlets you use are GFCI outlets to ensure your safety.

4. Don’t Overload Circuits

Overloading outlets can cause electrical fires, so it’s important to only plug in as many devices as the outlet is designed to handle. If you need to plug in more devices, use a power strip with built-in overload protection.

5. Never Touch Electrical Devices With Wet Hands

Not only should you keep electrical devices away from water, you should also never touch these devices with wet hands. Water is a conductor of electricity, which means that wet hands can make it easier for electricity to flow through your body, potentially causing serious injury or death. If your hands are wet, dry them before touching anything electrical.

6. Keep Electrical Devices Away From Children

Children are curious and may not understand the dangers of electrical devices. Keep all electrical devices out of reach of children, and teach them about the importance of electrical safety. If you have pets, also follow the same practices with them. Animals can be very curious and not be aware of the dangers of your electrical equipment until it’s too late.

7. Hire A Licensed Electrician For Any Electrical Work

If you need any electrical work done, make sure to hire a licensed electrician to do the job. Attempting to do electrical work yourself can be dangerous and can potentially cause serious injury or death.

Contact 247 Local Electrician Today. We Are Here For All Your Electrical Needs In Milwaukee, WI and Surrounding Areas

Electrical safety is essential during the summer months. By following these 7 electrical safety tips, you can help prevent accidents and keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Remember to always be cautious when using electrical devices, and if you have any concerns about electrical safety, contact a licensed electrician for assistance – like 247 Local Electrician!

Summer Electrical Safety: How GFCI Outlets Can Keep Your Family Safe

Sat, 04 Nov 2023 01:55:00 GMT

Summer Electrical Safety: How GFCI Outlets Can Keep Your Family Safe

As the summer season kicks into full swing, many families are eagerly planning outdoor activities and gatherings. Whether it’s firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue, taking a refreshing dip in the pool, or enjoying a soak in the hot tub, summer brings plenty of opportunities for relaxation and fun. However, it’s important not to overlook the potential electrical hazards that can accompany these activities. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets in ensuring summer electrical safety for you and your loved ones.

Understanding GFCI Outlets

Before we delve into the specific safety measures, let’s take a moment to understand what GFCI outlets are and how they work. GFCI outlets are special electrical receptacles designed to protect against electrical shocks and electrocution. They constantly monitor the flow of electrical current and quickly interrupt the circuit if they detect a ground fault, which occurs when electrical current deviates from its intended path, potentially flowing through water or a person instead. By cutting off the power in mere milliseconds, GFCI outlets significantly reduce the risk of serious electrical accidents.

If you have young children, consider installing tamper-resistant GFCI outlets throughout your home to prevent accidental electrical shocks.

1. BBQ Safety

Barbecuing is a favorite summer pastime for many families, but it’s essential to prioritize safety. When using electrical appliances, such as electric grills or rotisseries, near outdoor cooking areas, make sure to plug them into GFCI outlets. GFCIs are especially crucial in outdoor spaces where the risk of moisture and wet conditions is higher. Regularly inspect the cords for signs of damage and keep them away from hot surfaces or open flames to prevent fire hazards. Remember to follow all manufacturer’s guidelines and exercise caution when operating electrical cooking equipment.

2. Pool and Hot Tub Safety

Pools and hot tubs provide a refreshing escape from the summer heat, but they can pose serious electrical hazards if not properly maintained. Installing GFCI outlets near pools, hot tubs, and any other water sources is paramount. Any electrical equipment used in or around water, such as pumps, heaters, or lighting, should be connected to GFCI outlets. Regularly check for any signs of wear or damage to cords and promptly replace them if necessary. It is also crucial to have a licensed electrician perform regular inspections to ensure the safety of your electrical systems near water sources.

Pro Tip: It’s also important to remember to never handle electrical devices with wet hands or when standing in water. This applies to both indoor and outdoor settings.

3. Outdoor Lighting Safety

Utilize GFCI-protected outlets for your outdoor lighting needs. Inspect light strings and fixtures for any damage before use and ensure they are rated for outdoor use. If you’re using extension cords for your outdoor lighting needs, make sure to avoid using them outdoors for extended periods of time. Not only that, but you want to make sure they are specifically designed for outdoor use and not indoor use.

Contact 247 Local Electrician for All Your Summer Electrical Needs in Milwaukee, WI and Surrounding Areas

5 Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Water Heater

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 02:12:00 GMT

5 Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Water Heater

Your water heater is an essential appliance in your home, providing hot water for daily activities like showering, washing dishes, and doing laundry. Over time, however, water heaters can become less efficient or even start malfunctioning. Knowing the signs that indicate it’s time to replace your water heater can save you from unexpected breakdowns and the inconvenience of being without hot water. In this blog, we will discuss five common signs that indicate it’s time to replace your water heater.

One of the primary factors to consider when evaluating the need for a replacement is the age of your water heater. On average, water heaters have a lifespan of about 8 to 12 years. If your water heater is nearing or has surpassed this age range, it’s a good idea to start considering a replacement. Older units are more prone to breakdowns and are generally less energy-efficient than newer models. Upgrading to a modern water heater will not only provide better performance but also reduce your energy consumption and save you money in the long run.

If you notice a significant decrease in the amount of hot water your water heater is providing, it could be a sign of trouble. Over time, sediment can accumulate in the tank, reducing its capacity and making it harder for the water heater to heat the water effectively. Additionally, a malfunctioning heating element or a faulty thermostat can also lead to insufficient hot water. While some issues can be resolved with maintenance or repairs, persistent problems often indicate that it’s time to replace the water heater altogether.

Another clear indicator that your water heater needs replacement is if you notice rusty or discolored water coming out of your faucets. This discoloration is a sign that the inner lining of the tank has deteriorated, causing rust to mix with your water supply. Apart from being unappealing, rusty water can also stain your clothes and fixtures. If you consistently experience rusty water, it’s crucial to have your water heater inspected by a professional. Depending on the extent of the damage, replacing the unit may be the most viable solution.

Water heaters are designed to be watertight, so any signs of leakage or water damage are serious concerns. Leaks can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as a corroded tank, a damaged pressure relief valve, or faulty connections. Ignoring leaks can lead to further damage, including structural issues, mold growth, or electrical problems. If you notice puddles around your water heater or any signs of water damage, it’s essential to address the issue promptly. In many cases, replacing the water heater is the most effective solution to prevent further damage and ensure your safety.

As water heaters age, they may start making popping, rumbling, or banging noises during operation. These sounds can indicate a buildup of sediment in the tank, reducing its efficiency and potentially damaging the unit. Additionally, an older water heater is likely to consume more energy to heat the water, resulting in increased energy bills. If you notice unusual noises or a sudden spike in your utility costs, it’s a sign that your water heater is struggling to function efficiently. Upgrading to a new, energy-efficient model can save you money and provide a quieter operation.

Contact 247 Local Electrician Today for All Your Plumbing Needs in Milwaukee, WI and Surrounding Areas

How To Prevent Your AC From Freezing Up

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 02:20:00 GMT

How To Prevent Your AC From Freezing Up

When the scorching heat of summer arrives, your air conditioning system becomes an essential component in keeping your home cool and comfortable. However, a common problem that many homeowners face is their AC freezing up. This not only reduces the efficiency of your cooling system but can also lead to costly repairs. In this blog, we will discuss some practical tips to help you prevent your AC from freezing up and ensure optimal performance throughout the summer months.

1. Keep Air Filters Clean

One of the primary reasons for AC freezing is restricted airflow due to dirty or clogged air filters. Dust, debris, and pet hair can accumulate over time and block the air intake, causing the evaporator coil to get too cold. To prevent this, it is crucial to regularly clean or replace the air filters. Ideally, check them once a month and clean or replace them as necessary. This simple step can significantly improve the airflow and prevent your AC from freezing.

2. Maintain Proper Airflow

In addition to clean filters, you must ensure proper airflow throughout your HVAC system. Make sure there are no obstructions around the vents, registers, or air ducts that may hinder the air circulation. Keep furniture, curtains, and rugs away from the vents to allow unrestricted airflow. Adequate ventilation enables the air conditioner to function efficiently and reduces the risk of freezing.

3. Check the Refrigerant Levels

Refrigerant is a vital component for the cooling process in your AC system. Insufficient levels of refrigerant can cause the evaporator coil to freeze. If you notice ice buildup on the coils, it may indicate a refrigerant leak or low levels. Contact a professional HVAC technician to inspect and recharge the refrigerant if needed. Regular maintenance checks will help identify any issues early on, preventing freezing problems and ensuring optimal performance.

4. Avoid Drastic Temperature Changes

Setting your thermostat to extremely low temperatures can put excessive strain on your AC and increase the likelihood of freezing. Aim for a moderate and comfortable temperature setting that does not strain the system. Additionally, avoid sudden temperature adjustments, especially during humid conditions. Gradual changes in temperature allow the AC to maintain a steady cooling cycle, reducing the chances of freezing.

5. Schedule Regular Maintenance

Routine maintenance is crucial for the proper functioning and longevity of your air conditioning system. It’s recommended to schedule annual or bi-annual maintenance with a professional HVAC technician. During these visits, the technician will inspect the system, clean the coils, check refrigerant levels, and ensure all components are in good working condition. Regular maintenance not only helps prevent freezing but also enhances energy efficiency and extends the lifespan of your AC unit.

6. Keep the Area Surrounding the Outdoor Unit Clear

The outdoor unit of your air conditioner requires sufficient airflow to dissipate heat effectively. Ensure that the area around the unit is clear of debris, vegetation, and any objects that may obstruct the airflow. Trim any nearby plants or bushes to maintain at least a two-foot clearance. Good airflow around the outdoor unit will prevent overheating and freezing issues.

Contact 247 Local Electrician for All Your AC Needs in Milwaukee, WI and Surrounding Areas

Preventing your air conditioner from freezing up is essential to maintain its efficiency and avoid costly repairs. By keeping the air filters clean, maintaining proper airflow, checking refrigerant levels, avoiding drastic temperature changes, scheduling regular maintenance, and keeping the outdoor unit clear, you can significantly reduce the risk of your AC freezing. Remember, if you encounter persistent freezing issues or require professional assistance, do not hesitate to contact a qualified HVAC technician. Stay cool and comfortable throughout the summer while ensuring your AC runs smoothly by following these preventive measures. Contact 247 Local Electrician for all your air conditioning maintenance, replacement, installation or repair needs.

Don’t Wait For Winter: The Benefits of Off-Season Furnace Maintenance

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 02:33:00 GMT

Don’t Wait For Winter: The Benefits of Off-Season Furnace Maintenance

As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, it’s easy to forget about the cold winter months and the importance of a well-functioning furnace. However, the summer season presents the perfect opportunity to tackle essential furnace maintenance. By addressing any issues and ensuring optimal performance during the off-season, you can avoid potential breakdowns and enjoy a cozy, worry-free winter. In this blog, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of off-season furnace maintenance and why summer is the ideal time to get it done.

1. Availability of HVAC Professionals

One of the primary advantages of scheduling furnace maintenance during the summer is the increased availability of HVAC professionals. Once winter arrives, technicians are inundated with emergency calls from homeowners experiencing heating system malfunctions. By planning ahead and scheduling maintenance during the off-season, you can avoid the rush and ensure that a qualified professional can devote ample time and attention to your furnace.

2. Cost Savings

Performing furnace maintenance in the summer can lead to significant cost savings. HVAC companies often offer offseason discounts and promotions to incentivize homeowners to schedule maintenance during the warmer months. Taking advantage of these offers can help reduce your overall maintenance expenses. Additionally, by addressing minor issues before they escalate into major problems, you can prevent costly repairs or even premature system replacement.

3. Enhanced Energy Efficiency

A well-maintained furnace operates more efficiently, leading to lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills. During the summer, when the furnace is not in use, HVAC technicians can thoroughly clean and inspect the system’s components. They can replace air filters, clean the ductwork, lubricate moving parts, and perform any necessary repairs or adjustments. These steps ensure that your furnace operates at peak efficiency, maximizing your comfort while minimizing energy waste.

4. Prolonged Equipment Lifespan

Regular maintenance plays a crucial role in extending the lifespan of your furnace. Summer maintenance allows technicians to identify and resolve potential issues that could cause significant damage to your system if left unattended. By catching problems early, you can prevent unnecessary wear and tear on critical components, ultimately prolonging the lifespan of your furnace. Investing in maintenance now can save you from the inconvenience and expense of premature system replacement.

5. Improved Indoor Air Quality

A well-maintained furnace not only provides optimal heating but also contributes to improved indoor air quality. Over time, dust, allergens, and other pollutants can accumulate within the heating system and get distributed throughout your home. Summer maintenance allows technicians to thoroughly clean the furnace, removing built-up debris and ensuring that the air you breathe remains clean and healthy.

6. Peace of Mind

Knowing that your furnace has undergone comprehensive maintenance during the summer months provides peace of mind as winter approaches. By taking proactive steps to ensure your heating system is in excellent condition, you can rest easy, knowing that your home will remain warm and comfortable when the cold weather arrives. You won’t have to worry about unexpected breakdowns or system failures, and you can focus on enjoying the winter season to the fullest.

Contact 247 Local Electrician for All Your HVAC Maintenance Needs in Milwaukee, WI and Surrounding Areas

The Impact of Coffee on Your Plumbing: What You Need To Know

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 03:09:00 GMT

The Impact of Coffee on Your Plumbing: What You Need To Know

Ah, coffee—the beloved elixir that kickstarts our mornings and keeps us going throughout the day. For many of us, it’s an essential part of our daily routine. But have you ever wondered about the impact of coffee on your plumbing? From clogged drains to potential damage, it’s important to be aware of how your love for coffee can affect your plumbing system. As we approach International Coffee Day on October 1st, let’s delve into the potential effects of coffee on your plumbing and what you can do to minimize any negative consequences.

1. The Culprit: Coffee Grounds

One of the primary concerns when it comes to coffee and plumbing is the disposal of coffee grounds. While it may seem convenient to dispose of them down the sink, it’s a habit that can cause significant issues. Coffee grounds don’t break down easily and can accumulate in your pipes, leading to blockages and clogs. Over time, this can result in slow drains and potentially even require professional intervention to resolve the issue.

Solution: Instead of pouring coffee grounds down the sink, consider alternative methods of disposal. One option is to compost them, as coffee grounds can be an excellent addition to compost piles. Another option is to throw them in the trash, ensuring they are properly sealed in a bag or container to prevent odors.

2. Stubborn Stains and Residue

Coffee stains are notoriously difficult to remove, and they can have a similar effect on your plumbing fixtures. Over time, the dark residue left by coffee can build up on sinks, faucets, and drains, resulting in unsightly stains and potential damage. This is especially true in areas with hard water, as mineral deposits can interact with the coffee residue and make the stains even more persistent.

Solution: Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to prevent coffee stains from becoming a problem. Wipe down your plumbing fixtures regularly with mild cleaners or natural solutions like vinegar and baking soda. If you notice stubborn stains, there are specialized products available to help remove them. Additionally, consider installing water softeners or filters to reduce the impact of hard water on your plumbing.

3. Effects on Water Pressure

Coffee lovers often rely on coffee makers or espresso machines that require water for brewing. If your plumbing system is not equipped to handle the demands of these appliances, you may experience a decrease in water pressure. The constant flow of water required for brewing can strain your plumbing, leading to reduced water pressure in other areas of your home.

Solution: To avoid water pressure issues, ensure that your plumbing system is properly sized and can accommodate the demands of your coffee-making appliances. Consult a professional plumber if you notice a significant drop in water pressure after using your coffee equipment.

4. Beware of DIY Plumbing Solutions

You might find trouble brewing if you attempt DIY plumbing solutions. Some coffee enthusiasts may resort to DIY tactics to address minor issues caused by their coffee habits. While it may be tempting to use chemical drain cleaners or attempt to fix plumbing problems yourself, it’s important to exercise caution. Chemical drain cleaners can cause pipe corrosion and damage, exacerbating the issue rather than solving it. Moreover, without proper knowledge and expertise, DIY repairs can lead to more significant problems down the line.

Solution: If you encounter plumbing issues related to coffee or any other cause, it’s best to call a professional plumber. They have the necessary expertise to diagnose the problem accurately and provide appropriate solutions, ensuring the long-term health of your plumbing system.

Contact 247 Local Electrician Today for All Your Plumbing Needs in Milwaukee, WI and Surrounding Areas

Coffee and plumbing may not seem like an obvious pairing, but the impact of coffee on your plumbing can be more significant than you realize. By understanding the potential problems and implementing preventative measures, you can enjoy your daily cup of joe without worrying about the consequences on your plumbing. As you celebrate International Coffee Day on October 1st, be mindful of your plumbing and keep the coffee flowing while protecting your pipes. Contact 247 Local Electrician for all your plumbing needs!

What Homeowners Need To Know About Dedicated Circuits In Their Home

Sun, 29 Oct 2023 13:04:00 GMT

Most residents give little thought to the function of their home’s electrical system. Instead, we just flip a switch and expect the lights to turn function. Most never think about all of the daily activities that require electricity to make our lives simple and far less labor-intensive. From cooking to washing clothes and cleaning the house, it all relies on proper electrical service. In addition, some of the tools and appliances that we all rely on require a massive amount of energy, making them what is often referred to as a high-power consumer. And many of these devices should be on a dedicated electrical circuit to provide added safety and protection to the other electronics and appliances in your home.

What Is A Dedicated Electrical Circuit?

A dedicated circuit is exactly what is sounds like. It is a complete electrical circuit that supplies power to only one item or device in your home. The circuit has its own breaker and is entirely separate from all other circuits in your house. A dedicated circuit is typically used for an item that draws large amounts of power and can create issues when it turns on by placing a significant drain on the power supply.

What Is The Risk Without A Dedicated Circuit?

In addition to being required by National Electric Code, the dedicated circuits are installed to protect you, your home, and your devise. The added labor and cost of installing separate or dedicated circuits pales in comparison to replacing a houseful of appliances and electronics because of a power spike or surge.

Without adequately installed dedicated circuits for appliances and other high electricity demand items, you could experience:

Which Appliances Need To Be On A Dedicated Circuit?

The easiest way to determine which appliances and features should be on a dedicated circuit is by their installation process. If the item is installed once and remains in place, it should usually have its own circuit. The preliminary list of items meeting these criteria include:

It is also essential to understand that there are some smaller, handheld devices and appliances that could benefit from a dedicated circuit. Some of these items include:

Because the list of smaller items in your home that require a dedicated circuit can fluctuate, it is recommended that each room have a single general use dedicated circuit. These outlets could accommodate a seasonal window air conditioner, hairdryer, space heater, or your gorgeous holiday tree with thousands of tiny twinkling lights.

Don’t Learn A Costly Lesson

Many homeowners look at dedicated circuits as an added and unnecessary expense. However, if you ever face the daunting task of replacing electronics that were destroyed due to a lack of a dedicated circuit, you will change your tune. The cost of outfitting your entire home with dedicated circuits is undoubtedly less than you would spend to replace your damaged air conditioner, a home theater system, or all of the computers in the household. Dedicated circuits are like insurance. You buy them to protect yourself from costly mistakes.

Call 247 Local Electricianto learn more about dedicated circuits and how they can help protect your valuable electronics and devices. The licensed electricians at The Electrical Company provide free estimates for all requests, and a complete warranty backs our installations and repair work.

Will My Home’s Electrical Service Support An Electric Vehicle?

Sat, 28 Oct 2023 04:53:00 GMT

When you are thinking about buying an all-electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle, you will want to ensure that your home can meet your charging needs. In most cases, your new car will include a Level 1 charging station that uses your home’s typical 110v outlet. These Level 1 charging stations are ideal for a low mileage driver or one who makes only a few trips out of the house each week. But if you drive daily or make multiple trips out each day, a Level 2 charger might be a better choice.

What Are Level 1 And Level 2 Charging Stations?

The Level 1 charger uses the 100v power in any outlet to power the inverter in your EV. That device then delivers the DC power to the batteries in the vehicle. A Level 1 charger is considered a slow charge and will add roughly 2 to 5 miles per hour of charging to your vehicle’s range. In contrast, a Level 2 rapid charger will increase your range from 10 to 60 miles per hour of charging. The type of vehicle you are charging will dictate the exact numbers needed to achieve a full charge.

Installing A Level 2 Charger In Your Modesto Home

Level 2 chargers cannot use a typical 110v outlet. Instead, they require a 240v outlet like the one used on a residential dryer or electric range. Most homes have the 240v service. But you will need to contact your local electrician for a price quote to extend the service to your garage and install an outlet for your charging station. In addition to the cost of the electrical work, you can estimate the cost of the Level 2 charging station anywhere from $200 to $1,000, depending on the model that you select and the included features.

The Cost Of Electricity To Power An EV

The cost to power your new EV will vary depending on the state where you live and the average electricity cost. You can use the chart provided by the U.S. Energy Information Administration to determine the average cost per kilowatt-hour in your state. But remember that this is a general number that does not consider any incentives or time of use plans that might apply to your actual cost for electricity. For a more exact number, contact your electricity provider or refer to their website for a tool to determine your precise cost of power. You can also check the U. S. Department Of Energy site to see if you will qualify for any incentive plans to lower the cost of fueling your EV. Then use the information from the vehicle manufacturer for charging time to calculate the daily cost of charging or charging as often as you think you will need it.

The Cost Of Electricity Compared To Gasoline

All EV’s have different mileage ranges and charging requirements. But if you are interested in an estimate, General Motors calculated an average cost of between $300 and $400 per year to charge an electric vehicle. AAA estimates that the average driver spends about $3,000 on fuel each year. That puts the cost of electricity for an EV at around 10% of the price of gasoline, making it a very thrifty choice for you and a great benefit for the environment.

To learn more about the process of installing an EV charging station in your home and the cost of the project, call 247 Local Electrician. The team of licensed electricians at 247 Local Electrician will evaluate your home’s 240v service and provide you with a complete cost estimate for your Level 2 charging station.

How To Lower Your Heating Bill Using Ceiling Fans

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 17:23:00 GMT

Most homeowners in Modesto are familiar with the benefits of using ceiling fans in the summer to help cool their homes. But they are not accustomed to using those same ceiling fans in the winter months to lower their heating costs. You might think that having the added electricity demand of the fan would eliminate any savings, but when used correctly, your ceiling fan will help you lower your winter heating bills.

The Balloon Principle

Everyone will stop and stare when they see a hot air balloon floating effortlessly across the sky. And what keeps those balloons aloft is nothing more than hot air. The hot air rises and allows the balloon to drift higher and higher in the sky. Well, in your house, the hot air also rises and collects around the ceiling. But the problem is that you are sitting near the floor where all of the cold air has settled. So you turn up the thermostat on the furnace to create more warm air and a most costly energy bill.

The Solution

Set your ceiling fan to rotate clockwise and push the warm air back down to the floor for you to enjoy. Many people associate a fan with cooling the air. But in reality, all a fan does is circulate the air in the space. It does not alter the temperature of the air at all. So if it is moving warmed air from up near the ceiling, you will feel a warm breeze. Just set the fan to the low level and let it continue to churn that warm air back to you.

One More Important Rule

To enjoy the most significant reduction in your monthly heating cost, be sure only to use ceiling fans when you are in the room. Turn the fan on when you enter the room and off when you leave. Much like a lamp or other light source, there is no need to waste the energy to operate the fan when no one is in the room to enjoy the recirculated warm air.

Reset Your Thermostat

When you use a ceiling fan to recirculate warm air in your home, you can likely lower the setting on your thermostat a few degrees without noticing a change in your comfort level. Many homeowners find that they are setting the temperature a 2 to 5 degrees cooler and still feel very comfortable when recirculating or recycling the warmed air from the ceiling.

Not only are you reducing the energy consumption of your heating equipment, but you are also reducing the workload on the furnace. So you will save money each month and extend the life of your heating system. That can pay off in the form of even an additional year or two of use before having to replace the heating system.

Ceiling Fan Installation

If your home was not built with ceiling fans, the installation process could be more challenging. A ceiling fan needs to be wired into and mounted from an electrical junction box in the ceiling. If your home does not have a box located in the ceiling, you will need to have a licensed electrician extend the electrical wiring and install an electrical box before the ceiling fan can be installed.

Call (209) 396-4618 to request a free price quote for a ceiling fan installation from the licensed professionals at 247 Local Electrician Our experts are happy to answer any questions you have, install the electrical box and ceiling fan, and provide a warranty on all of our work. In addition, if you ever face an electrical emergency, we are here for you 24/7 to offer cost-effective solutions.

What You Need To Know About Outlet Safety

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 17:19:00 GMT

Most homeowners in Modesto give little thought to their home’s electrical outlets as long as they work when something is plugged into them. However, we all need to adopt higher standards for our electrical outlet expectations to ensure the safety of the devices we plug in, our home, and our loved ones. If an outlet does not function correctly, don’t just find another one and forget the issue. That simple choice to overlook the problem could lead to an electrical fire and life-altering events.

Signs Of Electrical Outlet Safety Issues

There are many indications that there is a problem with one of the electrical outlets in your home. If you notice any of these issues, call (209) 396-4618 to schedule a service call immediately to eliminate the hazard from your home.

Call (209) 396-4618 or click here to schedule an appointment with the licensed experts at 247 Local Electrician when you discover any of these electrical outlet issues.

Why Your Christmas Lights Should Be Professionally Installed

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 22:54:00 GMT

Once December rolls around, many families in Modesto and the surrounding communities begin putting up their Christmas lights. While for some families this is a novel tradition, others find it a hassle or even dangerous. You may not have realized having your lights put up by a professional electrician was even an option. Here are the great benefits for you and your family.

Safety

Putting up holiday lights can be dangerous. You may need to go up a ladder or onto your roof to hang them. This is risky in the cold and icy conditions of winter. Ladders can easily tip if you do not use them carefully.

There are also electrical hazards. It’s easy to blow fuses or even damage your whole electrical system by overloading it or using lights not rated for outdoor use.

Our professional electricians know how to put up lights safely and efficiently. They can make sure you don’t suffer an unfortunate electrical overload or even a fire due to your lighting display.

Design

DIY is great, but it isn’t easy. Many families start off with a specific image in mind but don’t have the skills or equipment to execute their vision.

Professionals can help you create a lighting display that will wow you and your neighbors. They can create an amazing design that highlights your home. They can also bring innovative design ideas you hadn’t thought of.

Better Quality

The average setting of lights sold in a store are decent, but they may not give the effect you want. Professionals have access to high-quality LED lighting that will look great and withstand the weather.

Repairs

Everyone has had the frustration of taking out their lights and finding a bulb is burned out. Even worse, it may happen after you’ve already hung up your lights. Our professionals can handle any burnt-out bulbs so that you can relax.

Storage

Another annoying factor is having to store and retrieve your Christmas decorations from storage. Then, you need to hope they aren’t damaged from a year in your garage or shed.

By working with professionals, you don’t need to worry about the hassle of removing and storing decorations. They can take it down for you, and they may even have a great storage service so your decorations stay safe until next year.

Hire the Professionals

Working with a professional electrician makes your Christmas season less stressful and much safer. At 247 Local Electrician , we can handle your outdoor decorations while you make the inside of your home a festive wonderland. We can also provide electrical upgrades, surge protection, and rewiring solutions.

Indicators That Your Home Needs Rewiring

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 20:02:00 GMT

At the turn of the 20th century, wiring was starting to be installed in the average home. Unfortunately, much of that wiring is still being used today by unknowing homeowners. If you’re experiencing any of the indications below, it’s time to think about having your home rewired.

You Have Knob and Tube Wiring

One of the first types of home wiring methods was knob and tube wiring. Over the years, this type of wiring has been determined to be highly dangerous in certain situations. It isn’t rated to handle a lot of moisture, so it’s not ideal to have it in your wetrooms. Additionally, any exposed wiring can get pushed into your building materials and cause a fire.

Your Circuit Breakers Trip Often

Circuit breakers are a safety feature that turns off the electricity to any circuit that has exceeded the number of amps that are authorized to be used. This helps to protect against dangerous power surges that could result in electrical fires. Unfortunately, when your Modesto, CA, home has outdated wiring, it may not have enough power going to particular circuits to run the electronics that you desire. Having your home rewired gives you the opportunity to increase the amperage for your home so that you don’t constantly trip your circuit breakers.

Discolored Receptacles and Switches

If you notice that some or all of your outlets and switches seem to be discolored, it could be due to your household wiring. Degraded wiring paired with loose connections can unintentionally let electricity escape into the open. These sparks can cause small flames that singe your receptacles and switches. Getting your wiring updated is a must to help prevent a house fire.

Flickering Lights

If you’ve tried twisting those bulbs tighter and they won’t budge, it’s likely that you have faulty wiring in your home. This problem can allow irregular connections to happen, which will result in flickering lights. Updating your wiring is an absolute necessity before you end up with no power going to your lighting circuits.

You Smell a Persistent Burning Odor

If you have faulty wiring that is letting sparks escape into the open, they’re creating small flames. This can give off a burning odor that may be hard to determine where it’s coming from. Whenever you get a consistent whiff of a burnt electrical smell, it’s time to call an electrician. You never should let that burning odor go as it increases your risk of experiencing a house fire.

When you experience any of the issues above, it’s a sign that your house’s current wiring needs to be redone. It’s highly likely that you don’t rely on a car made in the early 1900s, so why on earth would you rely on old wiring technology? It’s time to get an upgrade by calling the professional electricians at 247 Local Electrician today!

3 Ways to Protect Your Electrical Panel From Damage

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 02:32:00 GMT

Home electrical panels can last for decades, especially when they’re properly maintained. Unfortunately, though, there are some ways that your electrical panel could be damaged or simply not be safe to use. People in Modesto, CA, use the electricity in their homes for all sorts of reasons, including everyday activities and recreation, and it’s a hassle to struggle with your electrical panel. But there are some ways that you can limit the likelihood that something will go wrong with yours.

Invest in Whole-House Surge Protectors

A lightning strike to the home or to one of the main electrical lines in your neighborhood could cause a surge of power that could damage the electrical equipment in your home. Unfortunately, it could also damage the electrical panel to the point that you need to get a new one. Getting a whole-house surge protector is one of the easiest ways to protect your home from major damage from lightning and other reasons your system could be overloaded with a surge of power.

A surge protector designed for the whole house is hardwired into the electrical panel. This type of surge protector will help protect the electrical panel and individual appliances from big surges of energy by providing a grounding effect so that extra electricity is diverted and stored elsewhere.

Avoid Overloading Circuits

Circuits get overloaded when you have too much energy that you’re running through a single circuit. When electrical panels are overloaded, you’re putting your system at risk of catching on fire. You can lessen the likelihood that you’ll overload an electrical panel by ensuring that you don’t have too many appliances and electrical outlets running through the same circuit. You also need to ensure that major appliances are on their own circuits.

Additionally, there might come a time when you need to upgrade to a bigger electrical panel to accommodate the extra appliances that you have in your home. This is especially true when you make an addition to your home, and it’s even becoming a more common need as time goes on because people’s need for electricity has become higher as homes have become more reliant on technological devices than they were even a couple of decades ago.

Protect Electrical Panel From Water Damage and Corrosion

When there’s an electrical panel on the outside of a building, there’s an increased risk of water from weather getting inside the box if there are cracks in the outside of the box. You need to ensure that your electrical panel is sealed on the outside to prevent water and other corrosive elements from getting on the metal and wires inside. This can also cause circuit breakers to malfunction.

If you’re concerned that your home’s electrical panel might not be up to par in terms of safety or functionality, make sure that you talk to a qualified electrical technician. Catching problems sooner rather than later can save you from problems with your electrical panel that could cause further damage or even something as dangerous as a fire. Need electrical services? Contact 247 Local Electrician today.

4 Signs Its Time Upgrade Your Electrical Panel

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 23:55:00 GMT

1. You Detect a Burning Smell

A burning smell is one of the tell-tale signs of electrical problems. Therefore, you mustn’t ignore any odor of burning plastic or wood, especially around the electrical panel.

The smell is a sign of the wiring insulation melting, usually due to circuit overloading. If the circuit breaker keeps tripping, it is often a sign of an overloaded panel.

If the outlets are warm to the touch or buzzing, it could indicate a wiring problem. Consider consulting a certified professional to ensure safety and building code compliance.

2. You Need Additional Outlets

If your current system requires additional outlets, a panel upgrade is often necessary. While using power strips may seem like a convenient solution, it often triggers circuit overloading. Overusing extension cords draws current above the rated limit and can also cause electrical arcing and fires.

If the lights flicker when you plug in an appliance like the dishwasher, it could be a sign of overloading. It means your panel cannot support the demands of your home’s electrical system in Stanislaus County.

A professional from 247 Local Electrician , a locally owned service in Modesto, should troubleshoot the system. Our A-plus-rated electrical team has 25 years of experience in electrical panel repairs in California’s North San Joaquin Valley.

3. Signs of Extensive Damage or Corrosion

If you notice dark spots on the breaker panel, you should schedule electrical panel repairs as soon as possible. Burning spots could be a sign of overheating. An upgrade is necessary to prevent residential fires.

Rust is a sign of water damage and indicates that there is a risk of a shock hazard. Water damage could be from a roofing leak or plumbing defect. It is crucial to identify the source of the moisture as you plan for a panel repair service.

4. Your Electrical Panel Is Past Its Lifespan

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the average lifespan of an electrical panel is between 25 and 40 years. Its lifespan depends on the model, manufacturer defects, and deterioration, among other factors.

However, if your electrical panel is over 25 years old, you should consider upgrading. Also, if it still uses fuses instead of breakers, the current installation may not provide adequate protection against surges and electrical arching.

It is not wise to put off upgrading your electrical panel. If you notice signs like burned-out spots or corrosion, consult a certified professional to troubleshoot the circuit. You can rely on 247 Local Electrician for code-compliant electrical updates in Modesto.

4 Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Your Electrical Wiring

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 02:03:00 GMT

Defective or outdated wiring is always a concern for your home’s safety. Every year, electrical failure causes about 1.3 billion dollars in property damage. Therefore, if you spot these signs of faulty wiring, consult an electrician immediately.

1. Defective or Frayed Wires

The most noticeable sign of faulty wiring is frayed wires. Rodents can gnaw on the insulation, leaving wires susceptible to arcing. Any deterioration due to age may also play a role.

Installation is another factor that may cause frayed wiring. If the wires are not secured properly, they can kink or get pinched and become frayed. You will need to call a licensed electrician to examine the wiring.

2. Buzzing, Dimming or Flickering Light Bulbs

Another symptom of defective wiring is buzzing or dimming lights. If the wires deteriorate, it will cause resistance and trigger voltage fluctuations. As a result, the connections will overheat, leading to a recurring problem. First, make sure the light bulb is secure in its socket. Also, it is worth noting that fluorescent lights tend to flicker.

When the flickering coincides with turning on an appliance, it is usually a sign of circuit overloading. If you’re located anywhere in the north San Joaquin Valley, you can reach out to 247 Local Electrician certified electricians for an inspection.

3. Your Home Has Outdated Aluminum Wiring

Outdated wiring and connections are an electrical hazard for homes constructed between 1963 and 1972 in Modesto, CA. Even buildings built a few years later may have had upgrades completed with aluminum wiring. An electrical contractor may have had some wires left after a previous installation.

You can identify aluminum wiring from the label “Aluminum” on the insulation jacket. Aluminum often triggers overheating between the wiring and the connections to outlets and switches. You may spot burnt-out receptacles and lighting fixtures. The only way to be sure is to schedule an electrical wiring inspection.

4. Circuit Breaker Is Frequently Tripping

The circuit breaker will occasionally trip whenever the system detects an overload. A short circuit within an outlet or lighting fixture will force the circuit breaker to disrupt the current. It means the system has exceeded its maximum amperage. However, if the breaker is always tripping, it could signal electrical wiring faults.

The National Electrical Code also requires GFCI outlets for places with a high risk of an arcing or electrocution hazard. Your bathroom, kitchen and outdoor outlets must have GFCI (ground-circuit fault interrupter) outlets. If there is a wiring problem, the GFCI will prevent a ground fault.

Unless you have the training, it is wise to avoid tinkering with the electrical system on your own. You could worsen the problem and even trigger a serious electrical hazard. For exceptional rewiring services in Modesto, CA and the entire surrounding area, call us at 247 Local Electrician today to arrange a consultation.

6 Signs That Your Home Needs New Wiring This Spring

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 00:39:00 GMT

Springtime in Modesto, CA has perfect weather for completing all those home improvement projects you have been putting off. One task to tackle every spring is checking your home’s electrical system to see if you need new wiring. Faulty and damaged wiring is the leading cause of fires in residential homes, resulting in billions of dollars in property damage each year. Here are six signs that your home needs some new wiring this spring.

1. You Have Remodeled or Expanded Your Home

Remodeling or expanding your home creates a new space that will most likely have electrical needs. Placing the wiring in the proper areas and merging it with the existing electrical system can be a complicated task requiring professional assistance.

2. You Own an Older Home

Technological advances over the past few decades have dramatically increased the electrical load of the average home, and the electrical systems in older homes may not be able to keep up. If your house was built before 1985, you should have the wiring professionally inspected to see if rewiring is advisable.

3. Electrical Outlets Shock or Buzz

If you are getting shocked by the outlets in your home, or you hear a buzzing noise while you’re near them, it’s a clear indication that the wiring in your home needs a professional review. Stains or discoloration around the electrical outlets can indicate that your home is experiencing power surges, which pose a big fire risk.

4. Fuses Are Blowing Frequently

If you find yourself replacing the fuses in your home frequently, it is an indication that the electrical system cannot handle the load that is being placed on it. Our certified electricians can help you assess your electrical needs and make the necessary changes.

5. You Smell a Burnt Odor

The presence of a burnt smell emanating from the walls is a sign that there is a short in the wiring. Wiring shorts can cause sparks that ignite devastating electrical fires, so they must be addressed immediately.

6. You Notice Flickering or Dimming Lights

Lights that flicker or dim unexpectedly may have loose wiring or some other significant wiring issue. If the flickering or dimming occurs when you plug in or power on some other device, it could indicate that you are overloading the electrical system.

Conclusion

Putting new wiring in your home is a big job that should be done by a certified electrician to ensure that the wiring is installed properly and in compliance with all local electrical codes. Ensure your home’s wiring is up to date and efficient by scheduling a consultation with 247 Local Electrician licensed electricians today!

4 Ways to Use Lighting to Make Your Home Look Even Better

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 17:07:00 GMT

When not visiting the Gallo Center for the Arts or having fun at John Thurman Field, your Modesto, CA home really is your castle. Well-thought-out lighting choices make your home even more adaptable and satisfying for everyone in your family.

Use Varied Lighting

One of the best things about lighting in the modern world is that there are so many choices. Now is the time to take advantage of the kind of diverse array of options you’ll find on the market. Use different kinds of lighting in all areas of your Modesto, CA home to make it easier to enjoy the inviting climate. Pick from choices like uplights, track lighting, or large freestanding lamps. Each one has a role to play in making sure your house is easy to use any time of the year.

Bring in Dimmers

Your lighting needs change as the day goes on. That’s why you need to have a way to respond to such changing needs 24/7. Dimmers allow you to choose the level of lighting you like best. At 247 Local Electrician , we’ll help you make sure your lighting is properly installed. This way, you have brighter light when you need to do things like cooking a great Sunday brunch and dimmer lighting when you want to set a romantic and cozy mood.

The Right Place

Placing lighting in your home needs a lot of careful thought. You’ll want to make sure that all of the lights are where you need them most. This applies indoors and outdoors. The rooms in your home function best when they have at least one or more focal points. For example, if you have a mantlepiece in your dining room, you might want to place your favorite picture on top of it. Use a lighting set at the top of it to show off the picture well. Lighting should also be used in order to show off the most beautiful items in your home. Lighting set against custom moldings and lovely plantings outside brings attention to the care you’ve taken to carve out a space of your own.

Each Room Is Different

Most rooms have different functions, and you need lighting to match. A series of lights hung above the stove and your kitchen countertops make it easy to prepare for any dinner party. Recessed lighting underneath your kitchen cabinets also makes it easy to see what you have on hand before heading to the Vintage Faire Mall. Place table lamps on each side of your bed so you can see what you’re doing even late at night.

A well-lit home is a far more functional home. If you need of help with lighting issues in Modesto, CA, contact us at 247 Local Electrician .

Why Do You Need to Maintain Your Electrical Panel?

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 15:35:00 GMT

Your electrical panel likely isn’t something you think about often. Most people only notice their electrical panel when there’s an issue. Most problems your electrical panel may have are easy to fix if caught early. Maintenance is the perfect way to keep your panel working well for years to come. Here are some benefits of electrical panel maintenance.

Catch Problems Early

The weather here in Modesto, CA can be rough on houses. Winter temperatures and precipitation can cause damage to many parts of your home. Some homes here are old, which can mean that their electrical panels have experienced many years of wear and tear. Older panels can have rust or other damage that can affect how well they work. It’s also easy to miss subtle signs of damage. Regular maintenance can catch problems early. You can then schedule small repairs instead of experiencing a sudden breakdown of your electrical panel that will be costly to fix.

Help Prevent Tripping Breakers

Many older or worn-out breakers will trip frequently. This can be a hassle. If you maintain your panel, it will be easy for your electrician to notice problems early and fix them. Many older homes are not set up for modern electrical needs, so it’s easy to accidentally overload a circuit.

Prevent House Fires

Electrical shorts in a circuit can cause electrical fires. An electrical panel that is hot or warm only in places can be due to electrical problems. You may also see signs of fires such as scorch marks or other discoloration. You may notice the smell of burning plastic near your panel, too. Wildfires are already a problem in Modesto and the surrounding areas, so it’s wise to do your part to avoid a house fire. Maintenance can help catch electrical issues in your home before there is a serious risk of an electrical fire.

Trust the Pros

There are plenty of other issues that might be caused by a poorly maintained electrical panel. Momentary losses of power or flickering lights are a big indicator of electrical issues. You may also notice a buzzing or sizzling noise. Finally, loose outlets are a major sign that your electrical system is older and needs maintenance.

If you want to make sure your electrical panel is in good shape, you should call a professional electrician for maintenance services. At 247 Local Electrician , we can handle all your electrical panel needs and make sure your flow of power is smooth. Call us today to schedule a maintenance service appointment.

Top 5 Ways to Keep Your Summer Energy Costs Low

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 16:54:00 GMT

When you’re going through heat waves in Modesto, California, during the warmer months of the year, it can be easy to keep your HVAC system continuously running. When you attempt to keep your home cool this way, though, it can come at a high cost as you increase your energy usage. There are a few ways to prepare your home for summer to use less electricity and reduce your carbon footprint.

1. Maintain the HVAC System

Keeping up with the maintenance of your air conditioner is necessary to ensure it only uses the energy it needs to control the temperature in your home without working too hard. Replace the air filter every one to two months to ensure there’s enough airflow and to improve the air quality. You can also hire a professional to inspect the system’s parts to determine if any of them need to be replaced.

2. Use a Programmable Thermostat

Install a programmable thermostat to prevent the temperature in your home from fluctuating too much. This will allow you to increase the temperature when you’re not at home to avoid using as much energy.

3. Turn Off Your Electricity

Allow your electrical system to have a break by shutting off the electrical panel when the home is unoccupied for more than two or three days. You can shut off the electric water heater, unplug electronics from outlets, and turn off the air conditioner until you return. Repairs can also be made to the electrical panel by a company like 247 Local Electrician .

4. Use the Right Size of AC

It can be easy to use more energy than necessary if your air conditioner isn’t properly sized for your home. Search around for an efficient model that is more advanced but isn’t oversized or undersized. Oversized appliances can use more energy than necessary to cool the home, and undersized appliances can constantly be in use as they struggle to lower the temperature in the home.

5. Perform a Home Energy Audit

Home energy audits can be performed before the summer season to find new ways you can save more money on your electricity bills. This may require adding more insulation to your attic or adding caulk to cracks and holes that are present. You can even install new energy-efficient windows that make it easier to keep the cool air indoors as the temperatures rise outside.

Contact us today to learn more ways you can prepare your home for the summer season to keep your energy usage low while using your air conditioner. We can answer your questions and help you find new ways to avoid using more electricity without compromising your level of comfort in your home.

4 Ways to Protect Your Pet From Electrical Dangers

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 15:52:00 GMT

When you adopt a pet, you want to make sure that they are safe and happy in your home. One element of keeping them safe is protecting them from electrical hazards that could hurt or kill them. The pros at 247 Local Electrician recommend these preventative measures to help keep your pet away from electrical dangers.

Place Your Furniture Strategically

The strategic placement of your furniture can block your pet’s access to electrical cords and outlets, greatly reducing the chances that they will mess with these items and get hurt. Run cords behind sofas and other furniture so the cords are out of sight. Avoid running cords under carpets and rugs, as this raises the risk of them overheating and catching fire.

Discourage Chewing With Special Sprays

Cords that must be left exposed can be treated with a pet deterrent spray that will make chewing on the cords very unpleasant to your pet. These sprays work by coating the sprayed items in a film that tastes terrible, and after a taste, your pet won’t want to experience it again. Different types of pets have different tastes that deter them, so make sure that the spray that you get is intended for the type of pet you are targeting.

Unplug Things You Aren’t Using

Many people do not know that devices and appliances are still using electricity when turned off if they stay plugged in. Even though the amount of electricity being used is smaller, it is still enough to harm your pet if something unfortunate happens. Most electrical devices can be unplugged without negatively affecting their performance. A power strip can be used for surge protection and to unplug a bunch of things with one action.

Invest in Safer Electronics

Cheap electronics are more likely to break or have electrical issues than their more expensive counterparts. They are easily affected by the humidity common to a Modesto, CA spring, have thinner cords that are easier for pets to chew through, are more likely to overheat or throw sparks, and may lose pieces that make it harder for your pet to access the electrical components. Investing in electronics that are safer will save you money in the long run and reduce the risk of harm to your pet.

Conclusion

Electrical hazards can be very dangerous to your pets, and they do not know how to keep themselves safe, so you must do it for them. By being proactive and taking steps to keep them away from the danger, you greatly reduce the chances of them getting hurt. For more tips on how to keep your pets safe from electrical hazards, call the team at 247 Local Electrician today!

Here Are Some Common Electrical Questions You’ll Want Answered

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 14:47:00 GMT

Many Modesto, CA homeowners take pride in their homes. They also take pride in being part of a thriving agricultural community. If you own a home or business in the area, you’ll need to make sure that your electrical systems are in good working order. Sit back and relax with a glass of our excellent local wine as you get the answers and help you need from our company.

Why Do My Lights Flicker?

Lights are essential in your home. They enable you to see what you’re doing once the sun goes down. You also need them in rooms that don’t get a lot of natural light. If the lights in your home or business start to flicker, this is often because they are connected to an outlet improperly. This can happen as a result of your electrical outlet or as a result of faulty wiring. Our professionals at 247 Local Electrician can inspect your lighting and fix any underlying issues.

Why Is the Dimmer Switch Too Hot?

Dimmer switches are very practical. You can use them to control the exact amount of light you wish to have in any room in your home. These switches typically feel cool to the touch. They do, however, have a maximum load, and if you have too many lights hooked up to one, it could get too warm. You also might notice over time that one is starting to feel hot even when you’re not using it. This is a sign that you should get it replaced. It’s best to have a professional on your side like our experts to make sure the job is done properly.

Why Are My Outlets No Longer Working?

Outlets are the heart of your home and business. This is where you plug in the items you need in order to utilize them. There are many reasons why the outlets might no longer work. A single outlet probably indicates an individual failure, which isn’t necessarily a cause for general concern. However, if your home suffers from more than one outlet that isn’t working, you could have a broader problem with your wiring. Either way, it’s time to call in an electrician. Our staffers know exactly how to identify these issues and make sure they restore all your components to working order.

What Dangers Are Posed by a Short Circuit?

Short circuits indicate there’s a problem with your electricity. There are many things that can cause a short circuit. You might have excess water in your home. You might also have damaged outlets that don’t allow the electricity to flow freely. The sheaths on your electrical wires may have come off. You’ll want to have someone examine the circuits and see what’s happening. Left alone, this can cause serious problems such as an electrical fire.

If you have any underlying electrical issues, contact our conscientious experts at 247 Local Electrician today.

5 Common Signs Your Circuit Breaker Is Defective

Sat, 14 Oct 2023 16:39:00 GMT

The circuit breaker is one of the main components of your electrical system and needs to be maintained well to ensure that it’s reliable and doesn’t put your safety at risk. Many of the homes in Modesto, California were built in the early 1900s and often have issues with circuit breakers that are old and have worn down. Here are a few common signs that your circuit breaker is defective and needs immediate attention to restore the operation of your electrical system.

1. Flickering and Blinking Lights

Circuit breakers are designed to last an average of 30 to 40 years, but they can start to develop issues once they reach the end of their lifespan. You may notice that the lights in your home begin to blink and flicker frequently, which can make it difficult to see clearly and perform various activities in the home. This indicates the circuit breaker is starting to perform poorly.

2. Frequent Need for Bulb Replacements

You may notice that your light bulbs have a tendency to burn out quickly and don’t last as long as expected, which can add up in cost over time. The bulbs are often overrated for the fixture when this occurs, but it can also be due to a bad circuit breaker, which can lead to a fire. Hire a professional from a company like 247 Local Electrician in Modesto to install a new circuit breaker.

3. Burning Odors

You should never have burning smells that are lingering in your home; this could be a sign that your circuit breaker needs immediate attention. A professional will need to visit your property and take a look at the wiring in your circuit breaker to determine if this is the source of the issue.

4. Old Age

You don’t always need to have symptoms that you notice when your circuit breaker is defective and needs to be replaced. You can consider the age of the circuit breaker to determine if it’s no longer safe and reliable to use on your property. Once a circuit breaker reaches 10 to 15 years, it should be regularly inspected by a professional to determine if it’s still in good shape.

5. Issues With Appliances

You can start to have issues with your appliances, whether your washer stops working halfway through a cycle or your oven fails to heat to a certain temperature. This indicates that the circuit breaker may not be capable of delivering enough power to modern products.

Contact the team at 247 Local Electrician in Modesto to learn more signs that your circuit breaker is defective. Our team can help replace the breaker and provide you with more information about our services.

Indications That You Need to Rewire Your Home

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 18:34:00 GMT

When the California sun beats down on your house, the last thing you want to worry about is your AC failing. However, if you have an older electrical system, your AC may suffer and eventually stop working. Though you can make small repairs each time you have a problem in your Modesto home, there will come a point when the best option is to rewire the system. Check out some of the signs that rewiring your home is a good option before you decide to work with us at 247 Local Electrician .

Frequent Outages

Modesto power outages often happen when the power grid has a problem or it can no longer support all the people who use it. If you have frequent outages but notice that your neighbors still have power, it’s time to take a look at your electrical system. Older homes often have fuse boxes and require that you change the fuses when one blows. Newer California homes use circuit breakers that shut off when they experience too much power. Your home may need rewiring because the old wires can no longer handle all of the power you use.

Burning Smells

House fires are a serious problem that can leave you without a home for weeks or even months. Electrical problems with old wiring can cause such a fire. One tool you can use to determine if you should rewire your Modesto home is your nose. Do you often pick up a burning odor, even when you’re not cooking? That scent is a big sign of an electrical problem within the walls. It can let you know that the wiring runs so hot that it actually burns. You may also notice some dark spots on the walls and around your outlets.

Lack of Outlets

When you buy a new home, you consider many different things. The number of outlets that each room has may not be on your list. It’s not mandatory that you rewire your home because you don’t have enough outlets, but electrical rewiring can add one or more outlets to every room.

Electric Shocks

Pay attention to electrical shocks, too. Electrical shocks that occur when you plug in an appliance or device are a sign of old or poor wiring. You may feel a mild tingling that goes away within a few seconds or a more severe shock that moves through your body.

Because of the old wiring it has, your Modesto home might be at risk of a fire breaking out. Damaged wiring can also cause many problems that range from electrical shocks to outages that happen frequently. 247 Local Electrician can rewire your home and make it work for you again. Call today for electrical upgrades or any other work you need.

5 Tasks for Your Electrical Checklist During a Remodel

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 19:42:00 GMT

When you’re in the process of remodeling your home in Modesto, California, there are a lot of moving parts. Whether you want your house to look similar to the McHenry Museum or the McHenry Mansion, the electrical system is one of the most important parts of the process when you’re working with a professional contractor. There are a few important tasks to add to your electrical checklist during a remodel to ensure each room is functional and safe to use.

1. Update the Wiring

Many homes in Modesto were built in the early 1900s, which makes it necessary to update a lot of the wiring that is present. Old wires that are present are likely to be damaged and frayed, which can increase the risk of electrical fires. New wires can make it easier for appliances to operate safely without any issues.

2. Install New Lights

When remodeling, it can be easy to focus on the fixtures and materials that are installed throughout your home without realizing that lighting is one of the most important parts of your interior setting. Consider adding lights underneath the kitchen cabinets and task lights in areas that are frequently used to create a more well-lit and functional setting.

3. Upgrade the Electrical Panel

Hire a certified electrician from a company like 247 Local Electrician in Modesto, California. We can upgrade your electrical panel . This will allow new appliances and fixtures to be used without overloading the electrical system.

4. Add Smart Features

Smart features that include smart lighting and a smart thermostat can offer a high level of convenience and reduce your energy usage on the property. Upgrade to smart features that create a modern and functional setting. This will also allow you to have a higher level of safety and control over your electrical features.

5. Install More Outlets

Many older homes have a lack of outlets because electronic devices weren’t used as frequently in past decades. If you’re remodeling your house, it’s a good time to install additional outlets. This can make it easier to avoid using power strips and extension cords, which can become a hazard and increase the risk of electrical fires that can occur in the future.

If you want to learn what you should add to your electrical checklist during a home remodeling project, you can contact our electricians at 247 Local Electrician in Modesto. We can provide you with more information and help you transform the quality of your setting.

Why Label Your Electrical Panel

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 09:00:00 GMT

The electrical panel is the brains of the electrical system for your home or business. It contains circuit breakers that control how electricity is distributed. Older electrical panels contain fuses. Each breaker or fuse corresponds with an appliance or a specific area of your home or commercial building. That’s the reason it is so important to label your electrical panel.

Avoiding the Guessing Game

Labeling the electrical panel avoids any guessing when you need to work on your electrical system or cut off power in an urgent situation. It is essential to know exactly what you’re doing in the event of a serious emergency. Say, for instance, there is a need to shut down the power abruptly. If the electrical panel is not labeled, then you or someone else will have to guess at which breaker switches to flip or which fuses to unscrew. When the power must be shut off fast, time is of the essence because taking too long might result in an electrical fire or a fatal accident. If the electrical panel is completely labeled, you or another individual can quickly shut off the power because there will be no doubt about which breakers or fuses to target.

There are many older homes and commercial buildings in Modesto, CA. Some of these are at risk for electrical fires and other electrical emergencies, especially if the electrical systems have not been updated. Therefore, it is essential for all electrical panels be labeled clearly.

Properly Labeling Your Electrical panel

When labeling your electrical panel, it is important that you use a label maker. Using a label maker will make sure words are legible. All labels must be legible so there is no struggle to read them during an emergency. To label your electrical panel, you should do the following:

If you are concerned about the state of your electrical panel or want professional help to make sure it is labeled correctly, contact 247 Local Electricianfor assistance . To ensure that you and others remain safe, we can also check it out to make certain it is functioning properly. For this or any other electrical need in your home or business, call us today.

How to Be Safe When You Use Extension Cords

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 23:01:00 GMT

It’s both common and convenient to connect electrical devices to extension cords. However, it’s important to remember that when they are not used properly, they pose dangers to your safety.

Fire Hazard

When used improperly, extension cords can overheat and cause fires. The cord can become overheated if appliances are plugged into it that consume more watts than it can handle or if they are overloaded with power. A damaged extension cord can also cause a fire, and you should only use extension cords for temporary purposes. The following provides some additional tips for extension cord safety.

How to Select Extension Cords

Extension cord safety starts with selecting the right cord in the first place. Make sure that you only purchase cords that have been approved by an independent testing laboratory. If you are in need of a cord to use outdoors while enjoying the great weather in Modesto, only use cords that are designed specifically for the outdoors.

It’s also important to make sure that the cord is rated to handle the device’s wattage. Typically, the smaller the gauge number, the larger the wire and the higher the voltage the cord can handle safely. The length of the cord you need is important, as longer cords cannot handle as much current as shorter cords. If you want to know how to use the cord correctly and how much power it consumes, read the instructions.

The best extension cord for large appliances is thick, round, and low gauge. Flat or thin cords are best for small appliances and electronics. Regardless of what you are using it for, you should always choose polarized or three-pronged extension cords.

How to Use Extension Cords Safely

You should never remove the grounding pin from an extension cord so that you can plug it into a two-prong outlet. Doing so can pose a fire risk. It’s also not advised to power multiple appliances with one cord at the same time, and plugging multiple extension cords together is a bad idea.

Here are some additional safety tips:

Before wrapping up, it’s important to note that having to use extension cords is often a sign of a larger problem. If you have to rely on extra cords to get the power you need, you probably lack enough outlets in your home. At 247 Local Electrician , we can give you an electrical upgrade so that you don’t have to rely on electrical cords in your Modesto home. For all of your electrical needs or more in-depth info all about safe extension cord use in Modesto, contact us today. We’re here to help you with all of your electrical safety and repair issues.

Signs That Your Home May Need to Be Rewired

Sun, 08 Oct 2023 19:07:00 GMT

Older homes in Modesto may have wiring showing signs of corrosion and breaking. Old or faulty wiring can be a significant safety hazard, so it’s always a good idea to repair wiring right away. There are several signs to watch for to determine if the wiring needs to be replaced.

Flickering Lights

Are your lights starting to flicker frequently? The first thing to do is to see if your lightbulbs have been installed correctly. Correctly installed lightbulbs could indicate that your wiring cannot effectively and efficiently transmit electricity if the bulbs are not OK. Wiring problems would lead to an irregular connection causing a disturbance in the lighting’s consistency.

Discolored Outlets

When you notice a discolored outlet, please take it as a warning. With loose connections or worn wiring, some electricity may arc to metals and produce sparks. The discoloration, or scorch marks, is caused by sparks. A single spark could start a major fire.

Burning Smell Coming From Outlets

Rather than show discoloration, some outlets may give off a specific smell if the wiring needs to be addressed. For example, some people who have old wiring have reported noticing a burnt plastic smell. The odor is caused by burning a wire’s plastic casing, which could occur inside your walls. It’s scary to think about, but the heat could cause a fire to begin inside the walls.

Frequent Issues With the Circuit Breaker

It’s normal to flip your circuit breaker switches back on occasionally. Flipped breakers sometimes happen when people in Modesto turn on their air conditioners in the summer heat, for example. However, if you visit your breaker box frequently, there could be a problem like worn-down breakers. Worn or broken breakers create a barrier that electricity has difficulty passing through. The blockage causes waves of power and forces the breaker to trip to prevent damage to the home’s wiring. At 247 Local Electrician , we can fix this issue for you so that your whole breaker system doesn’t end up failing.

Old Age

A good rule of thumb is that if your wiring is around 40 years old, it needs an inspection. Wires begin to break down and start to cause hazards. If you have a home with aluminum wiring, you will need to replace it due to the increased safety concerns with using aluminum over copper wiring. Aluminum was frequently used in wiring during the late 1960s and early 1970s.

You can’t always see what’s going on with your wiring, but if you notice any of the signs described above, it’s wise to get your system checked out. We can help anyone in the Modesto area with that. Call to schedule an appointment.

Your EV Charger May Need Electrical Maintenance

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 21:51:00 GMT

Here in the San Joaquin Valley, we’re seeing an increase in the number of electric vehicles that residents are driving. California is used to being a leader in things like this, so it comes as no surprise. If you’ve joined the trend and gone electric, you may have set up a charging station at your home. After all, this arrangement can be much more convenient than having to use a public charging station. Please remember that your EV charger may need periodic maintenance in order to keep being as efficient as it can be, and it may sometimes need to be repaired.

Troubleshooting EV Chargers

Electric vehicle chargers can sometimes experience problems, just like any other device can. Sometimes, the issue is evident. If you have your charger set up in your garage, for example, you could accidentally brush by it with a tool and damage one of the external components. If you have your charger set up outside, a falling tree branch could knock something loose. These situations call for a professional to come out and take a look at what’s going on. You may need a replacement part, or perhaps a connection needs to be tightened.

In other situations, it’s harder to see what’s going on. However, if you pay attention to your charging times, you may notice something’s wrong. If your charger output is lower than it typically is, it’s likely that a component needs to be repaired or replaced. You might not have the right tool to measure charger output, but you will be able to keep track of how long it takes to get a full charge. If it typically takes six or seven hours to get a full charge on your battery, for instance, something isn’t right if you only have 50% battery capacity after that length of time. Our team at 247 Local Electrician can assess what’s going on at your place in Modesto and perform the necessary repairs.

Be Proactive

Your EV charger may have come with a recommended maintenance schedule. Since you’ve already invested so much in your electric vehicle and have committed to charging at home, it would be wise to follow that maintenance schedule. That way, a professional can inspect your charging wire, outlet, and other accessible components. If it seems like something is not in its best shape, it can be taken care of before it becomes a bigger issue.

Here to Help Local Residents

At 247 Local Electrician , we offer comprehensive services, a nd we’ve been working on more and more EV chargers in recent years. We’d be happy to help you if you are experiencing a problem or would like to have someone check things over to ensure maximum efficiency. Give us a call for more information.

Incorporate These Electrical Safety Tips Into Your Next Family Gathering

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 08:00:00 GMT

During a family gathering, you’ll want everyone to have a great time and to be safe. One thing that we don’t think about too often is the potential for an electrical fire, but it is a real risk that actually increases during the holidays. Our team at 247 Local Electrician has provided some tips that can help keep everyone safe.

Be Careful With Decorations

When it’s dark and gloomy in Modesto in the winter, decorations and lights up can make a place feel more inviting. There are a few things to remember if you plan on plugging in decorations this holiday season. First, you’ll want to keep your indoor lights inside. This way, they’ll be protected from the wet weather that often comes to Modesto, CA in the fall and winter. If a string of lights or other electrical item gets wet, it could malfunction. A worse scenario would be if its wiring gets compromised, which could cause someone to get shocked or cause sparks or smoke.

Another thing to keep in mind is that decorations can get worn down. You may enjoy putting up the same holiday lights every year, but perhaps time has taken its toll on the wiring. Alternatively, a little creature may have found its way into the storage in your attic or garage and chewed off some of the wiring insulation. When you plug in decor that has poor insulation, sparks could fly and you could be at risk.

Can Your System Handle the Load?

We’ve all gotten accustomed to using electrical devices pretty much everywhere. When you have guests over, they’ll likely be bringing their personal devices over as well. You may start to run out of outlets, in fact. There is a potential that you could overload your electrical system. This is especially true if you use a space heater or are using certain appliances more frequently to handle the demand from all the extra people at your place. To be safe, it’s a smart idea to have your electric system inspected by a professional this fall. At 247 Local Electrician , we have electricians who can check if:

We can spot potential problems and can address them before it’s too late. A small concern like a loose outlet might not seem like a big deal, but if someone gets shocked or the flow of electricity is disrupted, a major issue could arise.

Being proactive about keeping up with your electrical system and being smart about your holiday decorations can go a long way in protecting you and your guests. Call our team at 247 Local Electrician for more information.

Stop These Habit to Lower Your Electric Bills

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Many individuals are surprised to find that their electricity bills continue to rise every single month. If you find yourself feeling frustrated at the outrageous amount of money that you have to spend just to power everything in your home, you can lower your electricity bills by figuring out what’s causing them to be so high. Here are three reasons why your electrical bill may be skyrocketing.

Leaving Certain Devices Plugged In

Did you know that some of your devices can still use power even if they aren’t on? It’s common for many electronics or appliances to draw electricity even when you aren’t using them. This is why you should make it a point to unplug items after you turn them off.

Don’t forget about your computer and phone chargers as well. Many individuals use these items so much that they often forget to unplug them when they are not in use. If you find it to be too much of a hassle to unplug some of these items, you can always plug them into a power strip that you can turn on and off just with the click of a button.

Using Your Appliances Too Often

Many of us make the mistake of using our appliances too often. It can be tempting for Modesto, CA residents to do a small load of laundry or start the dishwasher even when it’s not full so that they don’t have to deal with it later. However, these appliances often use the same amount of energy no matter how full they are.

You can save electricity by only using these appliances when they are full. If you are looking for a way to save even more money, you can use cold water when you are washing your clothes. With Modesto’s relatively warm weather year-round, you can also choose to hang dry your clothes instead of using an electrical dryer.

Leaving Lights On

A lot of people find that their electricity bill has skyrocketed simply because they forget to turn off their lights. This is why you should make it a point to turn off these lights even if you think you will be returning to the room in just a couple of minutes. Before you go to bed, you should also walk through your home to check to see if you have forgotten to turn anything off.

If you tend to leave lights on because you don’t like coming home to a dark home each night, you can always have an electrician from 247 Local Electrician provide electrical upgrades such as adding a timer to an outlet switch so that items plugged into it will turn on at a certain time each day.

If you are struggling to keep your electricity bills down, we may be able to help. Contact 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 to find out if there’s an issue in your home that’s causing your electricity bill to skyrocket.

Holiday Tips For Home Energy Usage

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 21:49:00 GMT

Tips to Reduce Energy Consumption During the Holidays

Holiday seasons can be fun and festive. You might be planning on hosting a gathering and want your place to be warm and welcoming, or maybe you’d like to decorate your home. These holiday activities and many others often rely on electricity, and as a result, utility bills can increase. To help you save some money, we’ve provided a few tips that can help you reduce your energy consumption over the next few months.

Turn Down the Heat

Winters can be chilly, so it makes sense that you’d want your home to feel nice and cozy. However, heating your place requires a lot of energy. To reduce your heating costs, consider turning down your thermostat a few degrees. It might be easier to do this at night when everybody is sleeping and when people are at work or school. A smart thermostat can make it easier to make these adjustments, even when you’re not at home. Our team can help you get set up with a smart thermostat if you’d like.

Remember, you don’t need your home to be that warm when you’re hosting a holiday event. When your place is filled with people, everyone’s body heat can make it feel too hot in some situations. If you’re using your oven to cook, this will add warmth to your home, too.

Switch to LED Decorative Lights

If you enjoy putting lights up around the outside of your house and on an indoor tree, you should consider using LED lights. LEDs shine brightly and are much more efficient than their older counterparts. In some cases, LEDs can be up to 90% more efficient than incandescent bulbs. They’re able to be more efficient because they don’t emit a significant amount of heat. Nearly all of the energy that they consume is used for illumination. This is in contrast to incandescent lights. When incandescent lights are turned on, they consume more energy because their filaments need to get hot in order to emit light. Energy goes towards creating heat, which is a relatively inefficient way to create light.

Set up Timers

Holiday lights and decorative pieces don’t need to be on all night. They’ll get plenty of attention from your neighbors if they’re on for a few hours each night, starting around sunset. If you plug your lights and decorations into a timer, then they’ll turn off automatically. Many timers are affordable and are relatively simple to program. More advanced timers are digital, and some are compatible with smart devices.

Small Changes Can Make a Big Difference

Being smarter about your energy usage can add up to considerable savings on your utility bills this holiday season. If you need any assistance, please call us at 247 Local Electrician . We service Modesto, CA residents.

Enjoy Safe, Happy Holidays With Quality Electrical Surge Protection

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 22:17:00 GMT

Electrical surge protection is essential when you decorate your home for Christmas and the general winter holiday season. Your attractively lit festive decorations may include Christmas tree lights, sparkling window decorations, and multiple strings of indoor and outdoor lights. When all are plugged in and brightly shining, your home’s required electrical current can suddenly skyrocket.

Other Major Causes of Household Electrical Surges

Additional common causes of serious electrical surges in your home can include the following.

Faulty Wiring

If your home’s circuit breakers trip frequently, you may have poor or damaged electrical wiring. Any exposed wiring can be damaged when nearby heavy furniture is moved against it or from everyday use. If you notice a burning odor near an outlet, this is often a warning of faulty wiring.

Electrical Overloads

If any electrical outlets in your home have too many appliances or holiday decorations connected to them, the circuits overload. The excess power required can result in a massive current surge. This can damage your electrical equipment and holiday decorations.

Unapproved Extension Cord Use Outdoors

If you use extension cords for connecting your outdoor holiday decorations to electrical outlets, check their approval for outdoor use. Unless these electrical cords are designed for connecting outdoor decorations or appliances, their use may cause an electrical surge. This could result in a power outage for your home.

Electrical Storm Conditions

If an electrical storm occurs in your area during the winter holidays, your home’s electrical system may be damaged by lightning. This lightning strike can cause a serious power surge before you have time to unplug your electrical devices and decorations. Yet, if your home has power surge protection, you can avoid damage to appliances, holiday lighting, and other decorations.

Helpful Home Safety Tips for Preventing Power Surges

How can you protect your home from damaging electrical surges? The following safety tips can help prevent these power surges, disruptions, and outages in your home during the festive holiday season.

Avoid Amp Overloads

By following the “80% rule,” you can avoid amp circuit overloading in your home. Never load a 15-amp circuit to more than 12 amps, and limit the load of a 20-amp circuit to 16 amps.

Replace Old Lights and Frayed Cords

Examine your holiday decorations before using them. Replace any damaged or worn electrical cords, and upgrade incandescent light bulbs with LED lights. LED bulbs require less electricity, and they last longer while producing less heat. Upgrade all extension cords for outside lighting to approved cords for outdoor use.

Request Power Surge Protection Services

Contact your electrical power provider and request a power surge protection check or upgrade for your home, if needed.

Make Quality Home Surge Protection Your First New Year’s Resolution

If you live in California’s North San Joaquin Valley, 247 Local Electrician is the leading electrical service provider in your area. Serving Stockton, Tracy, Modesto, Turlock, and nearby Central Valley communities, our premier power company offers excellent, affordable services.

All electricians are well-trained, licensed, certified, and ready to assist you. Contact us today via the company website to schedule an appointment for superior quality surge protection service.

Keep Your Family Safe This Winter With These Seven Easy Tips

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Winter is here again, which means it’s time for darker days, colder temperatures, and longer nights. This also means more demand for power and hence increased risk of accidents. Winter also overlaps with family and friend gatherings, which often translates to a higher use of space heaters and more pressure on electrical outlets. For that reason, it is important to ensure your home’s electricity is operating safely.

Here are the top seven electrical safety tips for your home this winter.

1. Keep Electrical Outlets Covered With Childproof Covers

Electrical outlets are one of the most common ways children get shocked. Make sure to find some plastic covers with a locking mechanism, and check them regularly. Alternatively, you can place furniture, such as a table or shelf, over the outlet. This will prevent children from getting to your outlets.

2. Monitor Usage of Electrical Outlets

Make sure to count the number of plugs in each outlet. If you need to plug in an extra appliance, try an extension cord. You should note that extension cords can also carry safety risks and should only be used with low-amperage appliances, such as mobile devices. High-demand appliances, such as portable heaters, should only be plugged into a wall outlet.

3. Check and Replace Old Outlets

Older homes that have outdated electrical wiring and outlets with cracks in them can be more prone to accidents. If you notice any of these signs, call an electrician to replace the outlet as soon as possible:

4. Keep the Placement of Extension Cords and Power Strips Safe

If you need to use an extension cord, try to avoid using them near water or fire. They should also be as close to the wall outlet as possible and should not be stacked on top of each other. Extension cords can easily be tripped over by children and pets. You should also remember to ensure that your appliance is fully plugged into the power outlet before you plug in the extension cord.

You should also ensure that your electrical cords and power strips don’t run under rugs or around furniture. Inappropriate covering of cords and power strips can result in frayed wires and increase the likelihood of sparks and serious fires.

5. Turn Off Appliances When Not in Use

Whether you’re away from home for a few days or just leaving the house for a few hours, you should turn off all appliances and devices. This will help prevent accidents in the event of a power surge or short circuit. Remember to also use grounded outlets, which are protected by a three-pronged outlet. These outlets have special protective mechanisms that help to reduce the risk of electrocution and fire in the event of a current leak.

6. Use Surge Protectors and Circuit Breakers

All electrical appliances in your home should have a built-in surge protection device that can protect them from overcurrents. If your electrical appliances lack a built-in surge protector, you can buy and install a whole-house surge protector.

7. Schedule an Inspection With a Qualified Electrician

During the winter, it can be hard to keep track of every appliance and device in your home. Therefore, you should schedule an appointment with a qualified electrician to check for undetected issues. This can help ensure that you have a safe electrical operation in your home.

Are you interested in more electrical safety tips for your home? If yes, call 247 Local Electrician today. We are a team of well-trained and reliable electricians that has been serving the Modesto, California community for over 25 years. We provide quality electrical maintenance and repair services to both residential and commercial clients and will help keep you safe this winter. We also provide lighting services, EV chargers, and electrical panels.

Why Bad Wiring Can Lead to High Energy Bills

Sun, 01 Oct 2023 19:43:00 GMT

The reason that faulty wiring can raise your electrical bills is something called electricity leakage. This happens when the electricity that’s supposed to reach an appliance, whether it’s a toaster or your refrigerator or your computer, doesn’t quite make it. Some electricity is lost as it makes its way to the appliance, and more electricity is needed to enable the appliance to work the way it should. Since the amperage is lower than it should be, your circuit breaker doesn’t trip, and it’s difficult for you as a layperson to find the source of the problem and fix it. Because of this, your bill goes up.

The Most Common Sites of Faulty Wiring

If you see an unusually high energy or electric bill and believe that faulty wiring is behind it, it’s important to call in a professional electrician to check. However, you might want to know which areas in your home are most likely to have bad wiring. They include places you rarely visit, such as your crawl space or your unfurnished attic. These places are the abodes of rats, mice and squirrels that love to chew on wires. Your HVAC system is also an area where electrical wires can fray, especially since these systems tend to have lots of wires and connections. One component of the HVAC system is the thermostat, whose faulty wiring could allow the heating and cooling to work concurrently. You may not even notice this, but your energy bill will reflect it.

Common Causes of Faulty Wiring

Aside from damage from rodents, one of the main reasons for bad wiring is an electrical system that’s simply old. Though copper wires can last for a century or more if they are well maintained, improvements and upgrades in the systems of an older home can put stress on the electric wiring that causes damage. This is especially true for appliances used in the kitchen. Contemporary air conditioners also use much more amperage than air conditioners built 50 or 60 years ago, and this can lead to leaks and resistance that raise energy costs.

Other things that can damage your wiring are people moving carelessly around your attic or your crawlspace and insulation around wires that grow old, crack and fall off. Badly installed wires, receptacles or switches can also cause faulty wiring, as can a leaky roof or a flood, as water causes corrosion of the connections.

7 Signs Your Home Needs Rewiring

Sun, 01 Oct 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Often, many do not think about rewiring their homes until something goes seriously wrong. This is because electrical wiring is designed to be long lasting. Even though electrical wiring has been constructed to last for decades, it still degrades over time and thus needs to be replaced.

Additionally, older homes need to be rewired to keep up with the demands of modern-day appliances and electrical usage. To significantly decrease the chances of electrical-related catastrophes, it is vital that you know the seven signs your home needs rewiring.

1. The Wiring in Your Home Is Old

Older homes have a lot of character. They have a rich history and are beautifully designed. However, the wiring in older homes was simply not designed to withstand today’s electricity usage. Today’s appliances and electronics place more of a demand on home electrical systems than they have previously, and the wiring in older homes cannot keep up with the demand. If too much demand is put on a home’s electrical system, electrical fires can result. If you live in an older home that still has its original wiring, you need to have it rewired.

2. Your Home Was Built With Aluminum Wiring

If your home was built between the years of 1965 and 1973, chances are high that your home has aluminum wiring. Have your home inspected by a licensed electrician to determine if there is aluminum wiring in your home. If aluminum wiring is found, you need to have it replaced right away because such wiring has been known to cause electrical fires.

3. Lights Flicker Often

If you have made sure all of your lightbulbs are not loose but still see flickering lights, this is a sign that there is a problem with the wiring in your home. Wiring connections may be loose, or there may be faulty wiring somewhere.

4. You Smell Persistent Burning Odors

If you smell a persistent electrical burning odor in your home, this is likely due to a problem with your home’s wiring. Either there is a problem with the wiring connections or your wires are faulty. Electrical shortages can occur that cause sparks to form and burn your wires. Outward signs that your wiring is faulty or damaged are discoloration or burn marks on your outlets and light switches. If you are not able to see any outward signs of faulty wiring on or near your outlets, the problem is happening inside your walls.

5. Not Enough Outlets

Older homes do not have as many outlets as modern homes, and this is because people did not rely so much on electronic devices. If you live in an older home and find yourself relying heavily on power strips, it is time to think about having your home rewired.

6. Circuit Breakers Trip Often

A circuit breaker tripping occasionally is no big deal. Circuit breakers are designed to trip so that overloaded circuits do not cause electrical fires. If your circuit breaker trips several times in a single month, you have a serious problem. Your wiring is either faulty or damaged and needs to be replaced.

Signs It’s Time to Change Your Lighting Fixture

Sat, 30 Sep 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Lights are a crucial part of any home – and when it comes to changing a faulty lighting fixture, things can get tricky. Whether it’s flickering, buzzing, or completely refusing to turn on, here are some signs that you should replace your faulty lighting fixture:

Flickering or Buzzing

If your lights start to flicker like strobe lights, it’s probably time for a new fixture. Flickering usually means there’s an issue with the wiring, while buzzing is usually a sign of too much electricity being used. In some cases, buzzing can also be caused by loose screws or improper installation. Be sure to thoroughly inspect the fixture before changing it for a new one. If either of these issues occurs, switching out your lighting fixture as soon as possible is best.

Refusal to Turn On

When you switch the light on, it should come to life immediately. If your lighting fixture refuses to turn on or gets stuck in a cycle of turning on and off, it’s definitely time to switch out the fixture. This may be due to an issue with the wiring or broken parts, and it’s best to avoid any potential danger by replacing the fixture.

Burning Smell

If you smell something burning coming from your lighting fixture, it’s usually because the wiring is worn out or malfunctioning. In this case, you should immediately shut off the circuit breaker and call a professional electrician to replace your faulty lighting fixture.

Dimming and Discoloration

Lights should always be at their brightest; otherwise, what’s the point? If you notice that your lighting fixture is gradually dimmer or the bulbs are turning different shades, it’s time to switch out your lighting fixture. This could be due to a number of problems, such as faulty wiring or a faulty bulb.

Excess Heat

The heat coming from your lighting fixture should never be unbearable. If you can feel an excessive amount of heat while standing near the light, it’s probably time to replace the fixture. This is likely caused by poor wiring or an improper connection, and it’s best to avoid any potential danger by replacing the faulty lighting fixture.

Low Quality

If you’ve had your lighting fixture for a while and it looks like it’s seen better days, it may be time to switch it out for a new one. Poor quality fixtures are dangerous and can also affect the look and feel of your home.

Damaged Fixture

Fixtures have a lifespan, and some may not be built to last. If you’ve noticed any physical damage or wear and tear on your lighting fixture, it’s time to start looking for a replacement.

How Do You Know When You Need To Rewire Your Home

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Rewiring a house can be very costly and requires the homeowner to be prepared to commit a significant amount of their time and money. But, in some cases, rewiring can be a necessary expense when safety or operational issues are present. So, how do you know when rewiring is needed in your home?

The Warning Signs

Wiring problems spring from a variety of things, including age, overuse, or damage to the home from a natural disaster. Regardless of the cause, here are some of the warning signs that indicate your house might need rewiring:

How Much Does It Cost To Rewire a House?

The cost of rewiring a house depends on several factors, the most important of which is the size of your home. For example, rewiring a 2,000-square-foot home can run in the neighborhood of $4,000 to $8,000. However, on average, rewiring a 3000-square-foot home costs around $6,000 to $12,000. Other factors include if you need a new electrical panel or if you’re having new outlets installed.

How Long Will Rewiring a House Take?

It depends. The average home of 3-4 bedrooms takes around seven days. The time it takes can vary depending on whether your home has a lot of outlets or if you have a lot of appliances that need to be disconnected. It also depends on if some of the areas are difficult to access. If the wiring in your home is older, it will likely take longer to rewire.

Why Overloading an Outlet Is a Danger to Your Home

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Overloading electrical outlets is common yet potentially dangerous. With the increasing number of electronic devices used in households and offices, it’s easy to overload electrical outlets, especially in older buildings with outdated electrical systems.

Many people are unaware of the dangers associated with overloading outlets and may continue to plug in multiple devices without realizing the risk they’re creating. Overloading outlets can be dangerous for several reasons.

Fire Hazard

When an outlet is overloaded, the electrical current flowing through the wires can become too much for them to handle. As a result, the wires can overheat, and if left unchecked, they can ignite nearby combustible materials. This can include anything from curtains and carpets to furniture and electronics, and it can happen incredibly quickly. Electrical fires put people and property in harm’s way.

Damage to Appliances

Another significant danger of overloading outlets is the potential for damage to appliances and electronic devices. When an outlet is overloaded, it can cause the electrical current to become unstable, damaging any devices connected to it. Over time, this can lead to malfunctions, reduced performance, and even complete failure of the appliances. The risk is particularly high for sensitive electronics, as they’re more susceptible to damage from power surges and fluctuations. Additionally, if an appliance is damaged due to overloading, it may need to be repaired or replaced, which can be costly and inconvenient.

Electrical Shock Hazard

Overloading an outlet can also pose a significant risk of electrical shock. When an outlet is overloaded, the wiring can become damaged, or the outlet can become loose, which can cause the wires to come into contact with each other or with metal objects nearby. If someone touched an object conducting electricity while standing on a conductive surface, they could be at risk of electrical shock.

Tripping Circuit Breakers

Overloading an outlet can cause the circuit breaker to trip. The circuit breaker is designed to protect your electrical system from damage by cutting off the power when it detects an overload. When an outlet is overloaded, the circuit breaker will trip, cutting off power to that circuit. This can be inconvenient, as it can cause a loss of power to other appliances or devices connected to the same circuit. In addition, tripping the circuit breaker frequently can wear it out, leading to the need for replacement.

Save on Energy With These Six Spring Cleaning Tips

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 21:21:00 GMT

Spring is the transition between winter and summer, and this provides us with an opportunity to refresh our homes, reduce our carbon footprint, and lower energy costs. So that you could enjoy significant savings on your energy bills, we’ve put together a list of six spring cleaning tips that will help.

1. Replace the Filter in Your HVAC System

Experts recommend changing the filter in your HVAC system every couple of months; however, if your family is large or if you own pets, you will want to change your filter more frequently. Dirty filters will cause your HVAC system to work harder, which will drive up your energy bills.

2. Switch the Rotation of Your Ceiling Fan

Change the rotation of your ceiling fan. During cooler weather, your ceiling fan should turn clockwise so warm air is pushed downwards. Now that spring is upon us, you’ll want to switch the rotation of your ceiling fan. It ought to now be turning counterclockwise because this will draw up cool air and help it to circulate it better. You will also reduce how much energy the ceiling fan uses, which will allow you to save on utilities. You should be able to find a switch on your ceiling fan that will allow you to change its rotation. If you cannot find this, contact an electrician for help.

3. Have Your HVAC System Inspected

Spring is the time to have your HVAC system inspected to make sure it will work efficiently throughout the summer. During this inspection, the technician will check all your system components to see that they are functioning optimally. A system that works well will not consume as much energy. If the technician finds any problems, you will be able to fix them before they turn into something serious.

4. Dust Your Home

When too much dust accumulates, this interferes with how well your electronics work. Spring cleaning is the time to dust thoroughly so your electronics will not have to work harder and draw more electricity.

5. Clean Behind and Beneath the Refrigerator

So much dirt and dust accumulate beneath and behind the refrigerator, and much of it makes its way into the condenser coils. This can cause your refrigerator to work less efficiently. The harder your refrigerator must work to do its job, the more electricity it uses. In addition to cleaning the area around your refrigerator, vacuum the condenser coils.

6. Have an Electrician Clean Your Outlets

Dirt and grime can build up in outlets, especially in those that are located in the kitchen. When your outlets are cleaned, they will work more efficiently, and there will be less of a risk of an electrical fire. Additionally, you will cut energy costs because there will be no dirt and grime present to interfere with electrical contacts.

If you want to save some money by cutting the utility costs at your home , call us at 247 Local Electrician today to get electrical upgrades or expert advice. The heart of our company is our commitment to providing our clients with top-quality services and outstanding results.

Wired for Success: The Different Kinds of Electricians and What They Do

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 08:00:00 GMT

The need for electricians is increasing with the growing electricity demand. Electricians are not a one-size-fits-all profession, though. There are different kinds of electricians who specialize in specific areas of electrical work. Read on to learn more about the different types of electricians and what they do.

Residential Electricians

As the name suggests, residential electricians specialize in installing, repairing, and maintaining home electrical systems. They are responsible for installing and repairing wiring, outlets, switches, and lighting fixtures. Residential electricians may also install and maintain heating, cooling, and security systems.

Commercial Electricians

Commercial electricians work in commercial and industrial settings such as offices, retail stores, factories, and hospitals. Their work involves handling electrical systems designed for commercial and industrial use. This includes larger-scale electrical systems such as those used for lighting, heating, cooling, and power supply. Commercial electricians must also be familiar with the various types of electrical equipment and wiring used in commercial and industrial settings.

Journeyman Electricians

Journeyman electricians are licensed electricians who have completed an apprenticeship and have several years of experience in the field. The state or local government licenses them, and they can work independently without supervision. Journeyman electricians are skilled in all aspects of electrical work. They are also knowledgeable about local and national electrical codes and can ensure that electrical systems are up to code.

Master Electricians

Master electricians are the most experienced and knowledgeable type of electricians. They have completed an apprenticeship and have several years of experience in the field. In addition, they have passed a master electrician exam and are licensed by the state or local government. Master electricians can work on any electrical system from residential to commercial and industrial. They can also design and install electrical systems and know local and national electrical codes.

Industrial Electricians

Industrial electricians work in industrial settings such as power plants and factories. Their work involves handling the electrical systems used in the manufacturing process. Industrial electricians must be familiar with the electrical equipment used in these settings, such as transformers, generators, and motors. They must also be knowledgeable about safety procedures and regulations related to working in industrial settings.

Low-Voltage Electricians

Low-voltage electricians specialize in installing and maintaining low-voltage electrical systems, such as those used for security systems, telecommunications, and home automation. They must know the different types of low-voltage systems and the wiring and equipment required to install them. Low-voltage electricians must also be familiar with low-voltage systems’ safety procedures and regulations.

Whether you need electrical work done in your home or business, choosing the right type of electrician for the job is important. By doing so, you can help ensure that the work is done safely and efficiently. If you reside , contact 247 Local Electrician to schedule an appointment for electric panel repair , lighting, EV charger installation, and more.

Keeping Your Electrical Panel Cool During Summer Months

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 16:01:00 GMT

Summer months can bring extreme heat and humidity, leading to a rise in the temperature inside your home. This increase in temperature can be particularly hard on your electrical panel, which is responsible for distributing electricity throughout your residence. When an electrical panel overheats, it can cause significant damage to your electrical system, and in severe cases, even cause a fire. So, it’s crucial to take steps to keep your electrical panel cool during the hot summer months. Here are some tips to help you do just that.

Choose a Good Location for Your Electrical Panel

The location of your electrical panel is critical in keeping it cool. You want to choose a well-ventilated location without exposure to direct sunlight. Avoid placing your electrical panel in an area that is too hot or humid like a garage or attic. Install your electrical panel in a cool and dry area like a basement or utility room.

Install a Fan to Circulate Air

Installing a fan near your electrical panel can help keep it cool. A fan can help circulate air around your electrical panel, preventing it from overheating. You can use a small desk fan or a larger ceiling fan, depending on the size of your electrical panel and the space surrounding it.

Keep the Surrounding Area Clean

Dirt and debris can accumulate around your electrical panel, restricting airflow and causing it to overheat. Make sure to keep the surrounding area clean by dusting and vacuuming regularly. You can also use compressed air to blow away any debris that may have collected around your electrical panel.

Inspect the Wiring Regularly

Wiring can become loose or damaged over time, causing it to overheat and potentially cause a fire. Regularly inspect the wiring around your electrical panel to ensure everything is in good condition. If you notice any frayed or damaged wiring, call a professional electrician to repair it immediately.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential in keeping your electrical panel cool and preventing damage to your electrical system. Schedule annual maintenance with a professional electrician to ensure everything functions correctly. During maintenance, the electrician will inspect your electrical panel, wiring, and other electrical components to identify potential issues.

Consider Upgrading to a New Electrical Panel

If your electrical panel is old or outdated, it may need to be updated to handle the demands of your modern electrical system. Upgrading to a new electrical panel can improve efficiency and reduce the risk of overheating. A new electrical panel can also provide additional safety features that can help protect your home from electrical fires and other hazards.

Use Surge Protectors

Surge protectors can help protect your electrical system from power surges caused by lightning strikes, electrical storms, and other sources. A surge protector can divert excess voltage from your electrical panel, preventing damage and potential overheating. Use surge protectors throughout your home, especially for sensitive electronics like computers and televisions.

Avoid Overloading Your Electrical System

Overloading your electrical system can cause your electrical panel to overheat, potentially leading to damage and fire. Avoid overloading your system by unplugging appliances and electronics when not in use. You should also avoid using too many high-wattage appliances, like space heaters or air conditioners, at the same time.

Your Trustworthy Local Electrical Resource

Keeping your electrical panel cool during hot summer months is critical to ensuring the safety and functionality of your electrical system. By choosing a good location, installing a fan, keeping the surrounding area clean, inspecting the wiring, scheduling regular maintenance, upgrading to a new electrical panel, using surge protectors, and avoiding overloading your system, you can help prevent overheating and damage to your electrical panel.

Lower Your Utility Bills With Energy Consumption Reductions and Smart Technology

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Energy consumption reductions are good for the environment and your wallet. Power-efficient smart technologies can help regulate your energy consumption, whether you rent or own your home. You can enhance energy consumption reductions with some lifestyle changes. Identifying “energy vampire” appliances is another way to lower your monthly bills. Smart gadgets can also help you save money every month.

Smart Thermostats

An HVAC system that runs constantly to keep your home comfortable uses a lot of energy. You can shut off your HVAC system when you leave your house for work, but your system will take time to heat or cool your home later when you return home. A smart thermostat connects to your Wi-Fi, which allows you to easily change the temperature from your smartphone. You can check the temperature after leaving for work and change the temperature on your way home. Some smart thermostats can learn your schedule to keep your house comfortable at the best times. Most HVAC systems are compatible with smart thermostats, but not all.

Energy Vampires

It can be time-consuming to unplug appliances that sap energy every night. Some energy vampires are laptops, televisions, gaming consoles, and microwaves. Appliances like coffee makers and microwaves have digital interfaces that are always running. Gaming consoles and computers can still download updates when plugged into the wall.

It’s a project updating your appliances and unplugging energy vampire electronics to lower monthly energy consumption. One way to make this easier is to install smart outlets. Smart outlets let you turn appliances on or off with your smartphone. A smart outlet can shut everything off when you go to bed and turn everything on in the morning. Some smart outlets can even analyze energy usage to consume less energy.

Some power strips allow you to control each outlet with your smartphone. A surge protection strip also safeguards your electronics in case there’s a power surge.

Non-Electric Smart Devices

Many smart electronics use wires to connect your house in a more convenient way. Some devices don’t need electricity and can run on solar power or batteries. Devices that can run on batteries include smart flood lights and video doorbells. The batteries can last between six and 12 months, depending on the number of motion events the doorbell captures. Battery-powered devices help keep your home eco-friendly. Some companies even offer solar devices.

The Perils of DIY Electrical Work and Why You Should Hire Professionals

Sat, 23 Sep 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Whether you’re a homeowner or an electrician, safety should always be your first concern when it comes to electrical work. DIY electrical work can be potentially deadly, and it can also damage your home. If you’re not an electrician, you should never attempt to do your electrical work. It could lead to electrocution, injury, or fire. This article will explain why you should never try to do your electrical work and the benefits of hiring a licensed electrician.

The Dangers of DIY Electrical Work

Without the proper knowledge and training, you could be in danger. For example, you could get electrocuted, burn your house down or cause severe damage to your home’s electrical system. Here are a few potential hazards you could face when doing your electrical work.

Immediate Physical Dangers

You could get electrocuted if you aren’t adequately trained and don’t have the right tools to do electrical work. In addition, you may not know what to look for when performing your electrical work without the proper knowledge and training. As a result, you may have trouble identifying issues with your electrical system resulting in accidents and even a house fire.

Fire Hazards

If you don’t have experience with electrical work, you could cause fires by short-circuiting your system. For example, an improperly installed circuit breaker or outlet can cause fires. In addition, you may not know how to properly install electrical equipment in your home without the proper training.

Non-Compliance With Electrical Codes

If you’re unfamiliar with electrical work, you could violate electrical codes. You could also be putting your family in danger. If you don’t follow the codes, you could overload your system, which could cause a fire.

Insurance Problems

Home insurance companies may not cover damage caused by non-licensed work. Some will even void your entire policy if you violate any electrical codes. As such, you may be liable for the damages to your home if you attempt to do any electrical work independently.

The Benefits of Hiring a Licensed Electrician

Hiring a licensed electrician is the safest way to get electrical work done in your home. Here’s why:

Expertise and Training

A licensed electrician is certified to work with all types of electrical equipment. They are trained and knowledgeable and know what to look for when performing electrical work in your home. When working with a licensed electrician, you don’t have to worry about the dangers of doing your electrical work.

Compliance With Codes and Regulations

A licensed electrician is fully aware of all electrical codes and regulations. They are also required to abide by these codes at all times. As a result, you don’t have to worry about violating any electrical codes.

Insurance and Warranty Benefits

Having an electrician perform your electrical work will keep you safe and your home protected and save you money. A reliable electrical company will have insurance and warranty policies. Additionally, your home insurance company will most likely cover any damages if you hire a licensed electrician.

Licensed electricians should perform most electrical work in your home. However, if you need electrical work like rewiring in your home or business , contact the experts at 247 Local Electrician.

Safeguard Your Electronics: The Undeniable Benefits of Surge Protection

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 14:12:00 GMT

In our increasingly technology-dependent world, our homes and workplaces are filled with a vast array of electronic devices. From televisions and computers to kitchen appliances and gaming consoles, these devices play a vital role in our daily lives. However, with the rise in power fluctuations and electrical surges, our valuable electronics face a constant threat of damage. That’s where surge protection comes in.

How Surge Protection Works

Surge protection devices take the excess power that results from a power surge and redirect it to the ground, preventing it from destroying your electronics and appliances. Whole-house surge protectors are installed near your electrical panel by a licensed electrician, and they are designed to protect your entire home from a power surge. For optimal protection, however, you want to use other surge protection devices in addition to a whole-house surge protector in case the power surge is too great for the whole-house surge protector to handle.

Types of Surge Protection

There are a variety of surge protection devices you can use in addition to a whole-house surge protector. These devices include:

Benefits of Surge Protection

Below, we have compiled a list of advantages that highlight why surge protection is a wise investment for protecting your valuable electronics.

Having surge protection installed can save you from contending with costly repairs. To get yourself on the road to safety and reside in or any of the surrounding areas, contact our highly-trained experts at 247 Local Electrician installation.

How to Spot Inadequate Electrical Capacity for an EV Charger Installation

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular as individuals and businesses embrace sustainable transportation solutions. As a result, the demand for electric vehicle charging stations is rising. However, before installing an EV charger, it is crucial to assess the electrical capacity of your property. Inadequate electrical capacity can lead to problems, including electrical hazards and inefficient charging. We’ll highlight four warning signs that you lack sufficient electrical capacity for an EV charger installation.

1. Frequent Circuit Breaker Tripping

One of the most common signs of insufficient electrical capacity is frequent circuit breaker tripping. Adding an EV charger to your electrical system increases the load on your circuits. If your existing electrical system is already operating close to its maximum capacity, the additional load from the EV charger may cause the connected circuit breaker to trip frequently. This indicates that your electrical system may be unable to handle the EV charger’s demands and requires an electrician to assess and rectify the situation.

2. Dimming or Flickering Lights

Another warning sign to watch out for is dimming or flickering lights. When your electrical system is stretched beyond capacity, the voltage supplied to various appliances and fixtures may drop. This can cause your lights to dim or flicker when the EV charger is in use or during peak electrical demand. If you notice this phenomenon, it suggests that your electrical system cannot support the additional load of an EV charger, so consult an electrician for solutions.

3. Overheating Outlets or Wiring

Inadequate electrical capacity can result in overheating outlets or wiring. When an electrical circuit is overloaded, it generates excessive heat. If your existing electrical system is already operating near its limit and you add an EV charger, it may overload the circuit, leading to overheating of outlets or wiring. Overheating poses a serious fire hazard and should not be ignored. If you experience hot outlets or notice any burnt or discolored wiring, immediately turn off the associated breaker, then consult a licensed electrician to evaluate your electrical wiring.

4. Slow Charging Speeds

Charging an electric vehicle requires a significant amount of power, and if your electrical system cannot deliver an adequate amount of current, it will result in slow charging speeds. If your EV takes an unusually long time to charge, it may indicate that your electrical system cannot meet the demand.

Conclusion

Installing an EV charger without considering the electrical capacity of your property can lead to various problems. By staying alert for the warning signs discussed above, you can tell if your electrical system is insufficient for an EV charger. If you encounter any of these signs, consult a qualified electrician to assess your electrical capacity and make the necessary upgrades to ensure a safe and efficient charging experience for your electric vehicle. Contact 247 Local Electrician for seamless services .

Why Surge Protection Is Essential in Every Home

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 17:06:00 GMT

Surge protection is indispensable in every home, especially during the summer months. Whole-home surge protection systems can shield your valuable electronics from dangerous power surges due to lightning strikes or other power issues. Surge protection solutions are relatively cost-effective, easy to install by professional electricians, and can prevent costly damage and repairs over time. This article explores the importance of having whole-home surge protection and why it’s a valuable investment.

What Is Surge Protection?

A surge protection system is an essential protective measure for your home. It works by neutralizing power surges and grounding excess energy. In the event of a dangerous power surge, a whole-home surge protection system will modulate the power supply to your household electronics, such as your TV and computer. This safeguarding action, often called clamping or arresting the surge, is done automatically without causing any harm to your appliances. Understanding what surge protection is and what benefits it provides is crucial before you decide to install one.

Benefits of Surge Protectors

The benefits of whole-home surge protection systems extend beyond simply protecting your electronics. For homes that have a large number of sensitive electronics or are located in areas prone to power surges, the benefits are considerable. Here are a few of these advantages.

Protects Against Power Spikes

A chief advantage of surge protectors is their ability to safeguard your electronics from power spikes that can occur during storms or when the electricity grid is unstable. Power surges, also known as voltage spikes, typically occur when lightning strikes, causing a strong electrical surge that can damage your appliances. A whole-home surge protector prevents damage by modulating the power supply to your electronics when a surge occurs.

Reduces the Risk of Fire

Electrical fires are a leading concern for many homeowners, especially during the summer when AC units are in high use. Fires can occur when electricity surges through outlets or electronic devices. A whole-home surge protector can help prevent electrical fires by controlling the power supply to your appliances, thereby avoiding potential damage and dangerous overheating.

Saves Money on Repairs

Electronics such as laptops, computers, or televisions can be expensive to repair, especially if parts need to be specially ordered. With a whole-home surge protection system installed by professional electricians, there is less need to worry about costly damage to your electronics. This is because the surge protection system stops power surges before they can cause significant harm. By safeguarding your expensive electronics, you not only retain the value of your equipment but also save on potential repair or replacement costs.

Whole-home surge protection is an essential investment for anyone who owns a home filled with electronics. It’s relatively affordable, easy to install with the help of professional electricians, and can shield your electronics from unwanted damage. If you need assistance installing a surge protection system , contact the experts at 247 Local Electrician .

How Can You Design a Well-Lit Home?

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 23:35:00 GMT

Of all the interior design considerations generally made by homeowners, lighting is one of the most likely to be overlooked. This is a mistake because residential lighting transcends interior design. Think about everything that proper illumination can deliver in your home: It can set the mood for a space, highlight features, improve the way you feel, and augment physical security.

Real estate agents can tell you how much of a difference proper lighting design can make in a property. In some cases, prospective home buyers request a tour after sunset so they can see both interior and exterior lighting in action. With this in mind, let’s go over a few principles of residential lighting design.

Types of Residential Lighting

Architects and designers determine lighting needs based on three types:

Ambient lighting provides general illumination throughout living spaces. Task lighting is focused on specific areas where activities take place. Accent lighting is used to highlight specific features or objects in the room.

An example of ambient lighting would be overhead fixtures or lamps; in general, it is placed in the center of the space. Task lighting could be a couple of white LED lamps placed right over a kitchen center island, but it can also be a security floodlight for the patio. As for accent lighting, think about a smart light bar for setting the mood in a media room or home theater.

Common Residential Lighting Design Considerations

Whenever security is a priority, you will want to begin with exterior task lighting. Numerous research studies show that burglaries and home invasions are more common in properties with exteriors that are completely darkened after the sun goes down. Keep in mind that modern security lighting systems can be equipped with timers, remote operation, and motion detection sensors.

Once security lighting has been reviewed, you can move on to ambient lighting. The minimum goal of ambient lighting is proper illumination, but you shouldn’t be afraid to mix and match light fixtures, play around with the color temperature, or consider special features such as dimmers and light sensors. Most homeowners settle on light fixtures that maintain aesthetic uniformity throughout the floor plan, but you can also change them from one living space to the next.

The size and shape of the room will also determine your ambient lighting needs. Larger rooms will require more light whereas smaller rooms can be adequately lit with fewer sources of illumination. Accent lighting always comes after ambient and task lighting; this is when you should think about combining purpose with decoration. These are just basic principles; please remember that there are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to residential lighting.

When you require lighting services in terms of design, improvement, or repair, feel free to contact 247 Local Electrician .

Six Exciting Developments That are Leading the Future of EV Chargers

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 17:45:00 GMT

With governments and industries worldwide committing to reducing carbon emissions, the demand for electric vehicles has surged. As a result, the spotlight is now on a critical aspect of the EV ecosystem – charging infrastructure. The future of EV chargers holds exciting developments that promise to reshape transportation and accelerate the transition to cleaner energy solutions.

1. Faster Charging Speeds

One of the most anticipated developments in EV charging technology is the advancement in charging speeds. Traditional charging stations typically offer charging speeds in the range of 50 to 150 kW. However, the future will see the rise of ultra-fast chargers capable of delivering up to 350 kW or more. This means that EVs could gain hundreds of miles of range in a matter of minutes, making long road trips more feasible and convenient than ever before.

2. Bidirectional Charging

The concept of bidirectional charging is gaining traction as a game-changer in the world of electric vehicles. Bidirectional charging allows EVs not only to charge from the grid but also to discharge energy back into it. This two-way flow of electricity has the potential to transform EVs into mobile energy storage units capable of supplying power to homes, businesses, or even the grid during peak demand. This development could revolutionize the way we think about energy distribution and utilization.

3. Wireless Charging

Imagine a world where charging your EV is as effortless as parking it over a designated spot. Wireless charging technology is making strides in the EV industry, offering the convenience of charging without the need for physical cables. By utilizing electromagnetic fields to transfer energy between the charging pad and the vehicle, wireless charging could eliminate the hassle of plugging and unplugging, making EV ownership even more user-friendly.

4. Solar-Powered Charging Stations

To further enhance the sustainability of EV charging, solar-powered charging stations are emerging as a promising solution. These stations utilize solar panels to generate clean energy, which can then be used to charge EVs. The combination of solar energy and EVs creates a synergistic relationship, where the excess energy generated during the day can be stored or fed back into the grid. This development not only reduces the carbon footprint of EV charging but also contributes to a more resilient and decentralized energy system.

5. Smart Charging Infrastructure

The future of EV chargers is intrinsically linked to the rise of smart technologies. Smart charging infrastructure leverages data analytics, machine learning, and real-time communication to optimize charging processes. This includes features such as dynamic pricing, load management, and remote monitoring. Drivers can benefit from cost-effective charging options, while utilities can better balance grid demand and supply, ensuring a more stable and efficient energy network.

6. Expansion of Public Charging Networks

As the popularity of EVs continues to soar, the expansion of public charging networks is a vital development. Governments and private companies are investing heavily in building a comprehensive network of charging stations, making EV ownership feasible for urban and rural dwellers alike. This expansion will alleviate range anxiety and encourage more people to make the switch to electric vehicles.

See If We’re a Good Fit!

Invest in the future with Sublime Electric’s cutting-edge EV charging solutions and be part of shaping a sustainable and convenient era of mobility. Together, we can drive change and accelerate the transition to cleaner energy alternatives. Schedule an appointment with 247 Local Electrician today to dive deeper into our full range !

Electricity always seeks the shortest path to the ground

Sat, 16 Sep 2023 20:16:00 GMT

Electricity always seeks the shortest path to the ground. It tries to find a conductor, or something that it can pass through to get to the ground, like metal, wet wood or water.

Your body is about 70% water, so that makes you a good conductor, too. For example, if you touch an energized bare wire or faulty appliance while your feet are touching the ground, electricity will automatically pass through you to the ground, causing a harmful, or even fatal shock.

It doesn’t take much to get hurt or killed by even a small amount of electricity. So the best thing you can do is be aware of the dangers of electricity, learn how to avoid them and always use a licensed electrical contractor like 247 Local Electrician!

It Is Easy to Forget Just how Dangerous Electricity Can Be

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 22:11:00 GMT

Electricity is an integral part of today’s modern world, and sometimes it is easy to forget just how dangerous it can be. Given the correct circumstances, it can kill.

But it can also shock you painfully, damage sensitive equipment, and ignite combustible materials. A small night-light with a 6-watt bulb draws .05 ampere, and even that small amount of current can be fatal.

Current passing through your body can cause electric shock, resulting in potential injuries: burns (arcs burn with heat & radiation) and physical injuries (broken bones, falls, & muscle damage).

Always use a Licensed Electrician for electrical repairs. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for prompt professional electrician services.

The Importance of Air Quality for Your Baby’s Health: Tips From An HVAC Expert

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 03:00:00 GMT

The Importance of Air Quality for Your Baby’s Health: Tips From An HVAC Expert

September is Baby Safety Month. As a parent, ensuring the well-being and health of your baby is of utmost importance. While you may pay close attention to their diet, sleep patterns, and overall environment, one aspect that often goes unnoticed is the quality of the air they breathe. Indoor air quality plays a crucial role in your baby’s health, as they spend a significant amount of time indoors. In this blog, we will explore the importance of air quality for your baby’s health and provide valuable tips from an HVAC expert on how to maintain clean and fresh air in your home.

Why Air Quality Matters for Babies

Babies have developing immune systems and respiratory systems that are more vulnerable to pollutants than those of adults. Poor indoor air quality can lead to various health issues, including allergies, asthma, respiratory infections, and other respiratory problems. Babies also breathe at a faster rate than adults, which means they inhale a larger volume of air per unit of body weight. Therefore, any harmful substances present in the air can have a more significant impact on their health.

Common Indoor Air Pollutants

Understanding the common indoor air pollutants can help you identify potential sources and take necessary measures to minimize exposure. Some of the most common pollutants include:

1. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

These are emitted by household products such as paint, cleaning agents, and furniture, and can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, as well as headaches and dizziness.

2. Dust and Allergens

Dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mold spores can trigger allergies and respiratory problems in babies.

3. Secondhand Smoke

Exposure to secondhand smoke increases the risk of respiratory infections, asthma, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

4. Chemicals from Building Materials

Newly constructed or renovated homes may release chemicals such as formaldehyde from carpets, insulation, and other building materials, which can be harmful when inhaled.

Tips for Maintaining Good Air Quality

1. Regular HVAC Maintenance

Schedule regular maintenance for your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system to ensure it operates efficiently and effectively. Change air filters as recommended by the manufacturer to prevent the buildup of dust, allergens, and other pollutants.

2. Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining good air quality. Open windows whenever possible to allow fresh air to circulate. Consider installing mechanical ventilation systems such as exhaust fans or heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) to improve indoor air quality.

3. Control Humidity

High humidity levels can promote the growth of mold and dust mites, while low humidity can cause dryness and irritation. Use a dehumidifier or humidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels between 30% to 50%.

4. Eliminate Potential Sources of Pollution

Minimize the use of chemical-based cleaning agents, air fresheners, and pesticides. Choose natural and environmentally friendly alternatives whenever possible.

5. Keep a Clean Environment

Regularly clean and vacuum your home to remove dust, pet dander, and other allergens. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to trap smaller particles effectively.

6. Avoid Smoking Indoors

If you or anyone in your household smokes, make sure to do it outside and away from the baby’s living areas. Remember that thirdhand smoke, the residual smoke left on surfaces, can also be harmful.

7. Monitor Carbon Monoxide Levels

Install carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms and other living areas to protect against this odorless and potentially lethal gas.

Contact 247 Local Electrician Today for All Your Indoor Air Quality Needs in Milwaukee, WI and Surrounding Areas

Ensuring good air quality in your home is essential for the health and well-being of your baby. By taking proactive steps to minimize indoor air pollutants, you can create a safe and healthy environment for your little one. By following the tips provided by HVAC experts, you can make a positive impact on your baby’s respiratory health and overall quality of life.

Remember, the quality of the air your baby breathes matters, so prioritize their health by prioritizing the air they breathe! Contact 247 Local Electrician today and learn more about our indoor air quality products and services.

Always Hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 19:55:00 GMT

There are some very good reasons to use a licensed electrical contractor, even if you think you can save a few dollars by accepting an unlicensed electrical contractor’s offer.

Using a licensed electrical contractor offers protection to the homeowner as they can be assured the contractor knows their trade, and has been tested and certified for this.

A licensed electrical contractor has the equipment, training and experience to get the project done safely and correctly. Capability is one of the most important licensing requirements.

Using a licensed electrical contractor like 247 Local Electrician for commercial and residential electrician services gives you the greatest probability of success for your electrical projects.

Child electrical safety in your home

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 03:52:00 GMT

Electricity surrounds our children every day as they use computers and appliances, and encounter cords, outlets and power lines. All of the things that encompass electrical appliances and items that require electricity are all very interesting and fascinating to little fingers and tiny mouths.

There are a few basic things that you need to know and implement to maximize child electrical safety in your home. Using child safety mechanisms is a great starting point when you are implementing electrical safety for your children. All electrical outlets should have face plates and there should be no open outlets anywhere in your home.

Always Call a Licensed Electrician like 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525for experienced electrical safety experts. BBB Accredited, family owned & operated.

Electrical Appliance Safety

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 16:28:00 GMT

Being safe when using electrical appliances, extension cords, light bulbs and other equipment is very important. It only takes one mistake to cause an injury or spark an electrical fire.

Unplug unused appliances and stow cords safely out of reach of pets, young children or hazardous situations. Appliances that generate heat, such as clocks, televisions and computer monitors, should be given several inches of clearance all around for good air circulation and cooling.

Follow electrical safety precautions carefully, and do not attempt amateur repairs or upgrades. Always call a licensed electrician like 247 Local Electrician for projects and repairs. Call (833) 220-2525 for a free estimate!

Power Outlet Safety

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 01:34:00 GMT

Practice safety with all power outlets. Notice any outlets where plugs only fit in loosely. These can overheat and cause fires.

There are several products you can purchase which dramatically increase protection against dangerous electrical currents.

One of the most effective protections against electrocution is the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI).

These outlets measure changes between currents coming in through the live wire and leaving through the neutral and will cut off power if any differences are detected.

They are especially important in wet areas such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 a free estimate on your next job or project. BBB Accredited, family owned & operated.

The Key To Any Commercial Electric Project’s Success

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 05:21:00 GMT

Electrical and Electronics Engineering involves designing, controlling, and maintaining electrical equipment. Some of the project areas of the electrical field are power generation, power system equipment maintenance and handling, industrial control and robotics, power electronics, and energy systems.

In the commercial sector, electricians are critical to support the growth of industry and commerce. The electrical work a commercial electrician performs includes new service, additions, a change to a job already completed, maintenance of equipment, or repair work for a faulty condition. Commercial electricians know the rules and regulations to work with different industries.

Preventing Home Electrical Fires

Sat, 09 Sep 2023 19:40:00 GMT

Faulty electrical appliances should be repaired/ replaced immediately. Electrical safety devices such as MB, GCD, Switches and fuses should conform to the correct rating of the Circuit. Welding/ cutting jobs should be carried out under strict supervision. Keep smoke/ fire check doors closed.

Most electrical fires in the home result from problems with fixed wiring, such as faulty electrical outlets and old wiring. Problems with cords and plugs, such as extension and appliance cords, also cause many home electrical fires. Routinely checking your electrical appliances and wiring can help prevent home fires. Frayed and damaged wires can cause…

Outdoor Lighting For Safety and Security

Sat, 09 Sep 2023 17:32:00 GMT

While security lighting is meant to scare off burglars and critters, it can prevent accidents, too. If you live in a dark neighbourhood, your yard is likely riddled with accidents waiting to happen. Properly placed security lighting can keep you from tripping up dark steps or over watering can leave on the lawn.

Security lighting provides a level of illumination to clearly identify persons or objects and creates a psychological deterrent to criminal activity in the area being protected. There are four general types of outside security lighting: continuous lighting, emergency lighting, moveable lighting, and standby lighting.

A well-lighted front entrance enables you to greet guests and identify visitors at night. Wall lanterns on each side of the door will give your home a warm, welcoming look while assuring the safety of those who enter. A separate rear or side entrance can be lighted with a single wall lantern installed on the.

Electrical Service Panels

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 23:36:00 GMT

Everywhere you look, electricity is connected to something. It may be the service line feeding your home or business, outlets feeding devices, or switches that control the lighting. The electrical service panel (or breaker box as it is often called) is the most vital part of your electrical system. The electrical service panel is used to.

The service panel is the central distribution point that connects the service wire or service drop—the main wire coming from the outside into the house—to the exit wires that split off and service different parts of the house. These exit wires are called branch circuits or branch wire circuits.

Distribution electrical panels are responsible for distributing power, supplying power and protecting users. They have the function of bringing power to junction boxes and all the various electrical devices.

Weather Effects on Electrical Systems

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 18:38:00 GMT

The weather can have serious effects on your home or building’s electrical system, its components, and everything that is connected to them. Thunderstorms bring wild weather with lightning that can send a jolt to your electrical service. This can damage the electrical system itself and everything connected to it. Flooding rains can get into yours.

All electronic components are subject to failure due to overheating. Any increase in temperature can result in a reduced lifespan. This includes increase in temperature due to ambient temperature of the environment, heat produced by the device itself, and the product's efficiency at heat removal.

Power Tools and Electrical Safety

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 17:06:00 GMT

Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525for qualified, licensed and experienced electrician services!

Before you start work with power tools, check electric cords for wear. If you’re outside or in a wet location, be sure tools and extension cords are suitable for outdoor use and circuits are equipped with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) which prevent serious shock. Never yank, kink, or bend cords. Unwind them fully before.

Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry that can get caught in a tool's moving parts. Stay safe by wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), like leather gloves, safety goggles, or face shields. Make sure your work area is level and you have good balance when using tools.

To protect the user, electrical tools must have 1) a three-wire cord with a ground and be plugged into a grounded receptacle, OR 2) be double-insulated, OR 3) be powered by a low voltage isolation transformer

How Electricity Works

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 18:52:00 GMT

The concept of electricity itself is based on electron movement. When you force electrons to move in sync, they end up producing heat, which turns the wire they're moving in into a magnet. Britannica describes electricity as a phenomenon associated with stationary or moving electric charges.

The energy to get the electrons moving in an organised way comes from either a battery or a generator. When a battery organises electrons they all move in the same direction at the same time — the battery pumps electrons through the circuit wires from the negative terminal to the positive.

Electricity works when a circuit is made of a conductor, a load or an electricity-consuming device and ground. Electricity will flow through the conductor to the load and finally to the ground to complete the circuit. Electricity becomes dangerous when you become part of the circuit, because the closest path to the ground may be through.

Whole-Home Surge Protection

Sun, 03 Sep 2023 19:54:00 GMT

Whole house surge protector: This device is installed in a home's electric panel by an electrician and offers downstream protection of all electronics in a home. It costs more and requires professional labor, but over time, may offer more resilient, cost-effective protection

Whole-house systems should be rated to stop a 40,000-amp surge, at minimum. Features to look for include thermal fuses, and lights or alarms that indicate when a device has taken a hit. Protection for an average house with 200-amp service will run about $500—including a couple of hours of an electrician's labour.

A surge protector is designed to protect electrical devices from voltage spikes. A surge protector attempts to limit the voltage supplied to an electric device by either blocking or shorting to ground any unwanted voltages above a safe threshold. In normal household and office wiring, the standard voltage is 120 volts. If the voltage.

Incandescent vs LED holiday Lights

Sun, 03 Sep 2023 05:55:00 GMT

Incandescent lights are far more inexpensive, but clients need to consider how often the incandescent lights will need to be replaced. LED light strands last considerably longer, saving you much money in the long run. LED lights are also more cost-effective as they use less electricity.

Incandescent bulbs waste energy; a full 90 per cent of their energy is released as heat, which is why regular light bulbs get so hot. LEDs are a different story. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, they use up to 75 per cent less energy and last 25 times as long

Last year for the first time, sales of holiday LED lights surpassed incandescent lights. Even though a string of holiday LED lights costs about twice as much as same-sized incandescent bulbs, LEDs are so long-lasting, the price differential is made up after two or three years of use. LED bulbs typically are made of lightweight.

Circuit Breaker Safety

Sat, 02 Sep 2023 00:43:00 GMT

Circuit breakers or fuses are some of the most important safety devices in your home, preventing overloaded circuits that could overheat and cause a fire. Circuit breakers, usually found in breaker panels, are the most common form of overload protection found in homes. Fuse boxes are usually found in older homes built before circuit breaker technology was commonplace. Circuit breakers and fuses are similar in function, though different in design.

A circuit breaker is a safety device that is designed to protect appliances and wiring by cutting off power when the current gets too high. Ceasing the flow of current stops the overheating of any circuitry and helps prevent electrical fires and other problems that can occur due to power surges

Home Electrical Safety Tips

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Practising good electrical safety in your home does not mean you have to purchase new devices or equipment. It all starts with knowing some good tips and sound advice about electricity. Check the wattage of all bulbs in light fixtures to make sure they are the correct wattage for the size of the fixture. Replace

Faulty Appliances Lead To Devastating Accidents

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 03:38:00 GMT

Power Stations and Transformers

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 17:38:00 GMT

Electricity is very powerful and can be extremely dangerous if it is not used safely. Outside, power lines and substations are the main sources of electricity, bringing it to our houses and communities. Substations and power transformers are shocking. Much like power lines, substations provide houses and communities with electricity. Heed warning signs and stay.

A power station transformer is a device that converts electricity from one voltage to another without altering its frequency. The transformer operates on an AC supply and uses mutual induction to convert voltages. You can find power plant transformers at power plants and are vital in running these facilities.

LED Lights Are Extremely Energy Efficient

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 21:29:00 GMT

LED lights are extremely energy efficient and consume up to 90% less power than incandescent bulbs. LED lights are today’s most efficient way of illumination and lighting. A low-voltage power supply is sufficient for LED illumination. Since LEDs use only a fraction of the energy of an incandescent light bulb, there is a dramatic decrease

LED is a highly energy-efficient lighting technology and has the potential to fundamentally change the future of lighting in the United States. Residential LEDs -- especially ENERGY STAR-rated products -- use at least 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent lighting

Low Voltage Electrical Systems

Sun, 27 Aug 2023 22:38:00 GMT

Low voltage systems are comprised of electrical equipment that uses 50 volts (V) of electricity or less. Common low voltages include 48 V, 24 V, and 12 V. Residential examples of low voltage systems include doorbells, garage door openers, home security sensors, thermostats, and landscape lighting.

There are two main electrical cables and equipment types: low and high voltage. Low-voltage cables and equipment are typically used for smaller electronic devices, such as phones and laptops. They are designed to carry a low current, which means they pose less of a risk of electrical shock.

The low-voltage wiring system uses small-gauge copper wires connected to low-voltage switches to switch on and off relays which in turn control the operation of lights and where desired, electrical receptacles, and other 120-Volt equipment in homes

The History of Electricity

Sat, 26 Aug 2023 18:03:00 GMT

Electricity was no more than a curiosity for civilization until the 15th century when the English scientist William Gilbert made a careful study of electricity and magnetism. In the 18th century, Benjamin Franklin conducted extensive research on electricity. He is reputed to have attached a metal key to a kite string and flown the kite.

Solar Power Systems

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 19:46:00 GMT

Solar technologies convert sunlight into electrical energy either through photovoltaic (PV) panels or through mirrors that concentrate solar radiation. This energy can be used to generate electricity or be stored in batteries or thermal storage

Solar panels are made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells. A solar cell is a crystal, and the bonds are made of electrons that are shared between all of the atoms of the crystal. When the light gets absorbed by the cell, electrons can move around the crystal freely, creating a current and converting sunlight into direct.

How Power Transformers Work

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 21:29:00 GMT

A transformer is an electrical device that takes electricity of one voltage and changes it into another voltage. A power transformer consists of a coil wrapped around an electromagnet that transfers electricity from one circuit to another without changing the frequency of the electric energy.

A transformer changes electricity voltage using the properties of electricity. In an electric circuit, there is magnetism around it. Whenever a magnetic field changes, a voltage is made. Although the frequency of the electrical energy isn’t changed, the voltage and current commonly change when passing through.

When a transformer is working: a primary potential difference drives an alternating current through the primary coil. the primary coil current produces a magnetic field, which changes as the current changes. the iron core increases the strength of the magnetic field.

Arizona Cooling With Circulating Fans

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 16:26:00 GMT

Circulating fans include ceiling fans, table fans, floor fans, window fans, and fans mounted to walls. These fans create a wind chill effect that helps to make you more comfortable, even if the space is also cooled by air conditioning. If you use air conditioning, a ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat.

Air circulators and fans can be used to blend air circulation in a house or any setting, whether residential or commercial settings, from a storefront to a warehouse. Circulating air can prevent stale, stagnant, and hot air in closed rooms, or help keep open rooms cooler. They are quite portable and can be used year-round wherever they are most needed to help regulate the temperature in a room and chase off hot and cold spots. There are many ways to use air circulators in the home and office

National Electrical Codes

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 21:30:00 GMT

The National Electrical Code protects the public by establishing requirements for electrical wiring and equipment. An electrical code is a set of regulations for electrical wiring. An electrical code provides standards to ensure electrical wiring systems are safe and unlikely to produce either electric shocks or fires. Electrical contractors and workers use the NEC.

Holiday Light Safety

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 18:18:00 GMT

It’s that time of year again, when the most festive of folks build awesome holiday light displays in and around their homes. Very few things are as unique to the winter holiday season as the custom of decorating your home and yard. While holiday lighting contributes to the brightness of the season, it can also

Ensure that lights being placed outside are labelled for outdoor use. Check all of your lights, especially older ones, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections and toss any damaged sets. Inspect your extension cords as well. Practice good extension cord safety.

Christmas lights (also known as fairy lights, festive lights or string lights) are lights often used for decoration in celebration of Christmas, often on display throughout the Christmas season including Advent and Christmastide

Electrical surges can damage outdoor lighting in the same way as your appliances and electronics inside your home. If you're running a wired system, we recommend that you install a surge protector that's rated for use outdoors and with lighting

Ground Fault Interrupt Circuits Are Not Fuses

Sun, 20 Aug 2023 22:41:00 GMT

Ground-fault circuit-interrupters (GFCI) are designed to protect people from electrical shock. They are not overcurrent devices like fuses or circuit breakers. GFCIs sense an imbalance in current flow over the normal path

A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is a device that shuts off an electric power circuit when it detects that current is flowing along an unintended path, such as through water or a person. It’s there to protect people from electrical shock, so it is completely different from a fuse. A GFCI monitors the amount

Electric Generators

Sat, 19 Aug 2023 18:44:00 GMT

An electric generator is a device that converts a form of energy into electricity. There are many different types of electricity generators

Generators are useful appliances that supply electrical power during a power outage and prevent discontinuity of daily activities or disruption of business operations. Generators are available in different electrical and physical configurations for use in different applications.

Good ventilation is important. Generators produce carbon monoxide, a colourless, odourless, poisonous gas that can result in serious injuries, and sometimes even death, if levels become too high. For this reason, your generator should never be operated in your home, garage or other enclosed building.

An electric generator is a device that converts mechanical energy to electrical energy for use in an external circuit. Sources of mechanical energy include steam turbines, gas turbines, water turbines, internal combustion engines and even hand cranks. The electric generator works on the principle of electromagnetic induction discovered by Michael Faraday in 1831. Faraday discovered.

Electricity can be Dangerous

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 19:58:00 GMT

Electricity can be one of the most dangerous hazards within your home or business. Many people have experienced some form of electric shock, where electricity causes your body to experience pain or trauma. When you are around electric circuits capable of delivering high power to loads, electric shock becomes a much more serious issue

Phase Out of Incandescent Light Bulbs

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 21:05:00 GMT

Governments around the world have passed measures to phase out incandescent light bulbs for general lighting in favour of more energy-efficient lighting alternatives. A compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) uses a fluorescent lamp tube which is curved or folded to fit into the space of an incandescent bulb and contains a compact electronic ballast in the base of the lamp. An LED lamp is a light-emitting diode which is assembled into a light bulb for use in lighting fixtures. Some LED lamps are made to be a directly compatible drop-in replacements for incandescent or fluorescent lamps. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for all your residential and commercial energy-efficient lighting needs!

Avoid Unsafe Unlicensed Laborers

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 20:54:00 GMT

Unlicensed laborers have no insurance and could sue you for any injuries they receive while working on your property. Consumers have no recourse for unsafe and shoddy workmanship by Individuals with no contractor’s license. The most dangerous amenity in your home or business should only be serviced by experienced, licensed professionals. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525for licensed, experienced, professional residential and commercial electrician services!

The Environmentally Friendly LED Light Bulb

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 18:16:00 GMT

Fluorescent light bulbs and CFL bulbs contain the dangerous metal mercury and must be disposed of as hazardous waste. LED lights emit less heat than traditional incandescent, fluorescent and halogen lights. Today’s LED light bulbs are environmentally friendly, higher quality, and are going to save consumers energy and money in the future. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for all your LED lighting needs!

Single Phase and 3 Phase Power

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 18:47:00 GMT

Generally, there is one power wire and one neutral wire, and power flows between the power wire (through the load) and the neutral wire. Three Phase power is a three-wire Alternating Current (AC) power circuit. Most US commercial buildings use a 3 Phase power arrangement because of its power density and flexibility. Compared to a single phase, a 3 Phase power arrangement provides more power with the same current and provides more power circuits. Call 247 Local Electrician (833) 220-2525 for all your commercial and residential electrical needs!

Arizona Household Energy Use

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 16:21:00 GMT

A quarter of the energy consumed in Arizona homes is for air conditioning, which is more than four times the national average. More than 90% of Arizona households use air conditioning. In Arizona homes, space heating accounts for just 15% of total energy use. Refrigerators and freezers, washing machines, clothes dryers and air conditioning units use the most energy in an Arizona home. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for all your residential and commercial electrical needs in the metro Phoenix area and surrounding communities!

Advances in Electricity and Energy

Sun, 13 Aug 2023 16:53:00 GMT

Recently, Researchers have identified a metal that conducts electricity without conducting any heat. Electricity is now being manipulated at the atomic level using quantum physics to power the next generation of computers. Electrical power generation is changing because of the need to introduce mixed energy sources and meet the world’s growing energy demands. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for all your residential and commercial electrical needs in Phoenix and surrounding communities!

Lightning, Electricity and Energy

Sat, 12 Aug 2023 16:21:00 GMT

Lightning can have 100 million to 1 billion volts, and contains billions of watts. Energy from lightning heats the air anywhere from 18,000 degrees Fahrenheit to up to 60,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The odds of a person being struck by lightning in their lifetime are about 1 in 13,000. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for all your residential and commercial electrical needs!

Trusted Arizona Electricians

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 21:16:00 GMT

Licensed, Bonded and Insured, B.B.B. A+ rated, Rogoz Electric provides experienced electrical repair and replacement services for all your home and business electrical needs in Phoenix and surrounding communities. The owners of Rogoz Electric Have been providing quality, trusted and reliable electrician services throughout the state of Arizona for over twenty years! Family-owned and operated, we keep quality high and our overhead low, passing the savings on to our customers. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for Licensed and experienced residential and commercial electrician services you can trust.

Primary Energy

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 19:29:00 GMT

The electricity that we use is a secondary energy source because it is produced by converting primary sources of energy into electrical power.

Primary Energy is energy that has not transformed into another form, such as coal, oil, natural gas, nuclear energy, solar energy and wind energy. The electricity that we use is a secondary energy source because it is produced by converting primary sources of energy into electrical power. Electricity is extremely versatile, with a wide.

How Lighting Changed the World

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 17:43:00 GMT

Production of artificial lighting started in the time of early humans and has continued to develop to this day. Before lighting, people rarely went out or had activities after dark. Candles and oil lamps were the main methods of lighting spaces up until the 20th century. The invention of the light bulb and commercial electricity transmission has enabled people to work and play 24 hours a day. Call 247 Local Electrician at(833) 220-2525 for all your commercial and residential lighting needs!

Dedicated Circuits

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 19:33:00 GMT

No other equipment can be plugged into or utilize the energy from this circuit, making it dedicated to that single application. This assures no other equipment or connections can be made between the breaker and the device requiring the dedicated circuit. Circuits that share multiple conductors or loads could cause overloading and depreciate the circuit’s reliability. Dedicated circuits are recommended for electronic equipment to ensure the best conditions for reliable operations. Call 247 Local Electrician @ (833) 220-2525 for all your dedicated electric circuit installation and repair needs!

A dedicated circuit is used by one appliance only. Meaning the circuit is not shared with any other devices or appliances. Nothing else can draw energy from this circuit. The purpose of the dedicated circuit has one purpose. It also had its own circuit breaker, which should be labelled in your electrical box.

The National Electrical Code requires dedicated circuits for major electrical appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, washers, dryers, and electric water heaters because they ensure that appliances can operate safely without overloading the home's electrical system.

Electromagnetic Interference

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 17:35:00 GMT

Moderate or high-powered wireless transmitters can produce EM fields strong enough to upset the operation of electronic equipment nearby. Cordless telephones, home entertainment systems, computers, and certain medical devices can fail to work properly in the presence of strong magnetic fields. Problems with EMI can be minimized by ensuring that all electronic equipment is operated with a good electrical ground system. Cords and cables connecting the peripherals in an electronic or computer system should be shielded to keep unwanted RF energy from entering or leaving. Call 247 Local Electrician @ (833) 220-2525 for all your commercial and residential electrical needs!

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) is unwanted noise or interference in an electrical path or circuit caused by an outside source. It is also known as radio frequency interference. EMI can cause electronics to operate poorly, malfunction or stop working completely. EMI can be caused by natural or human-made sources

Some natural sources that affect electronic devices through producing EMFs are lightning, solar storms, and solar flares. Human-made EMI can come from high-power radio, electrical sources, and even everyday devices like cellphones; it can also come from malfunctioning or improperly designed consumer devices

One of the most prevalent dangers of EMI is the harm it can cause to health care equipment. The electromagnetic waves that radiate from our cell phones can easily interfere with medical equipment, and if this equipment stops working as a result, the consequences can be fatal

Electrical Improvements

Sun, 06 Aug 2023 16:48:00 GMT

Licenses provide assurances of a specific level of competence, as well as accountability to the state licensing board. There are valuable assurances when using a licensed contractor, even if you think you can save money by accepting an unlicensed labourer’s offer. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for all your commercial & residential electrical needs!

An electric service upgrade normally involves the complete replacement of electrical service around the house. This includes the line side service entrance cable, meter base, weather head, load side service entrance cable, the grounding and bonding system, and, of course, the electric panel itself.

Improved safety: an outdated electrical panel likely can't keep up with the electrical demands of modern homes. This means they can function poorly, overheat, and even catch fire. Upgrading to a new system will improve your home's safety and keep your home working smoothly without the threat of fire

Energy Storage

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 21:01:00 GMT

Energy storage is the capture of energy produced at one time for use at a later time to reduce imbalances between energy demand and energy production. A device that stores energy is generally called an accumulator or battery

We offer a simple, turnkey solution for business customers providing guaranteed, fixed annual savings on energy bills. Working with our carefully selected partners, we will specify, install, operate and maintain your energy storage system

In simplest terms, energy storage enables electricity to be saved for a later, when and where it is most needed. This creates efficiencies and capabilities for the electric grid—including the ability to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Electrical Safety Advice

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 17:05:00 GMT

Don’t leave plugged-in appliances where they may come into contact with water. Check the wattage of all bulbs in light fixtures to make sure they are the correct wattage for the size of the fixture. If an appliance repeatedly trips a breaker or blows a fuse, or if it has given you a shock, unplug it and have it repaired or replaced. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for all of your commercial and residential electrical needs in the metro Phoenix area and surrounding communities!

5 tips for electrical safety

1 Avoid contact with power lines.
2 Ground electrical equipment.
3 Take care with power tools.
4 Wear protective clothing.
5 Stay on top of housekeeping

Surge Protectors

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 18:33:00 GMT

If the voltage rises above a safe level, a surge protector helps to prevent that surge from damaging your electronics. Most power surges are so brief that they are measured in nanoseconds, but they can cause damage to electronic equipment. Plug-in surge protectors protect individual electronic devices from fluctuations in power. Whole-home surge protectors protect your entire home’s electronics from power surges. Get the surge protection you need from 247 Local Electrician!

A surge protector, also known as a surge suppressor, is a device that is made to protect electronic equipment from unwanted power surges or "spikes." It takes only a tiny amount of voltage increase to damage most of today's sensitive electronics

Surge protectors can help prevent fires if they are used properly and are in good working shape. However, if there is a faulty unit, or if it is being used improperly, surge protectors can cause electrical fires

Circuit Breaker Failure

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 17:29:00 GMT

Breakers are supposed to trip if too much current flows through a circuit or if there is a short circuit. Repeated tripping of a circuit breaker will eventually wear it out. Like other mechanical devices, with constant use, you can expect wear. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for all your commercial and residential electrical repair needs!

The failure of a circuit breaker can be attributed to several reasons such as aging, excessive wear and tear, or exposure to extreme temperatures. While a circuit breaker is meant to keep your house safe from the dangers of too much electricity, sometimes circuit breakers can go bad and cause nothing but problems.

Basic Units of Electricity

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 21:06:00 GMT

There is a basic equation in electrical engineering that states how the three terms relate. It says that the current is equal to the voltage divided by the resistance or I = V/R. This is known as Ohm’s law. Ohms are named after Georg Ohm, a German physicist who made discoveries about current flow, voltage and resistance. Amps are named after André-Marie Ampère, a French physicist and mathematician who was one of the founders of the science of classical electromagnetism. Volts are named after Alessandro Volta, an Italian physicist who perfected a chemical process used in electrical batteries. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for all your Licensed electrical information and repair needs!

The base units of the International System of Units are the meter, kilogram, second, ampere, kelvin, mole, and candela

The seven SI base units are comprised of:

Length - meter (m)
Time - second (s)
Amount of substance - mole (mole)
Electric current - ampere (A)
Temperature - kelvin (K)
Luminous intensity - candela (cd)
Mass - kilogram (kg

Low Voltage Wiring

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 16:30:00 GMT

Low voltage is often used only with small electrical systems as it is not suitable for large-scale electrical projects. There are very real safety risks associated with low-voltage systems. Low voltage can cause unsettling shocks, especially in an unsafe environment, such as ungrounded or standing in a wet area. Always call a licensed electrician like 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-252 5 for all of your residential and commercial electrical needs!

Low voltage wiring refers to the electrical wires and cables that carry power at 50 volts or less. Standard electrical wiring such as what powers your outlets is 120 volts

Low voltage is a designation that indicates that something uses a lower stream of power than a traditional wall socket provides. Usually this means they come with some sort of a transformer or step-down device that reduces the voltage to a much lower level, which in turn means it's much safer to use

Residential and Commercial Electrical Circuits

Sat, 29 Jul 2023 18:24:00 GMT

The maximum amount of load that can be placed on any single circuit is controlled by a circuit breaker. Building circuits are parallel circuits. A parallel circuit has two or more paths for current to flow through. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for all your residential and commercial electrical service needs!

Residential electricians typically work with high voltage systems between 120 volts and 240 volts that supply homes with electrical power. In comparison, commercial electricians can work with extra high voltage systems that exceed 240 volts for large commercial buildings

Wiring: In commercial buildings, wires are contained in tube-like conduits for protection. The wires are also run in open spaces for easy access when maintenance is necessary. In residential buildings, wires are contained in thin plastic sheaths

Electrical Wire Gauge

Sat, 29 Jul 2023 01:32:00 GMT

The wire is sized by the American Wire Gauge (AWG) system. Wire gauge refers to the physical size of the wire. Whenever a circuit is extended or rewired, or when any new circuit is installed, the new wiring must be made with wire conductors that are properly sized for the amperage rating of the circuit. The higher the amperage rating of the circuit, the larger the wires need to be to avoid excess heat that can melt wires and cause fires. The proper circuit size, as indicated by amperage, is determined by several factors, including the planned load on the circuit, the number of outlets or light fixtures, and the length of the circuit. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for all your residential and commercial electrical wiring needs!

Electrical Short Circuit

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 18:12:00 GMT

The term short circuit is used to refer to a situation in which a hot wire carrying current touches a neutral wire. When this happens, resistance lessens instantly and a large volume of current flows through an unexpected pathway. When a short circuit occurs, sparks sometimes fly, you may hear crackling, and sometimes smoke and flames. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 to troubleshoot and repair any electrical short circuit in your home!

A short circuit is simply a low-resistance connection between the two conductors supplying electrical power to any circuit. This results in excessive current flow in the power source through the 'short,' and may even cause the power source to be destroyed

An overload of electricity in the circuit is the primary cause of a short circuit, with all other causes leading to it. When too much electricity flows into a circuit, it causes the circuit to burn due to high impedance. This can lead to fires or blackouts, depending on the scale of the damage incurred.

A short circuit occurs when the current finds a way to bypass the appliance on a path that has little or no resistance—for example, where frayed insulation bares a wire and allows it to touch the frame of the appliance, so the current can flow straight to the ground

The Electrical Transformer

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 23:23:00 GMT

A transformer has no moving parts and is a completely static solid state device. The primary winding of a transformer is connected to the input voltage supply and transforms the electrical power into a magnetic field. The secondary winding converts this alternating magnetic field into electrical power producing the required output voltage. Call 247 Local Electrician at(833) 220-2525 for all of your residential and commercial electrical need!

Transformers consist of three main pieces: A core (typically ferromagnetic (iron)), and two individual sets of wire coils. The coils are referred to as the primary and secondary windings.

In the simplest of terms, a transformer is an electrical device that takes a given input voltage and changes it to a different output voltage. This change can either be an increase or a decrease in voltage.

Transformers help improve the safety and efficiency of power systems by raising and lowering voltage levels as and when needed. They are used in a wide range of residential and industrial applications, primarily and perhaps most importantly in the distribution and regulation of power across long distances

Electrical Code Compliance

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 04:07:00 GMT

The National Electrical Code establishes requirements for electrical wiring and equipment. Electrical codes provide standards to ensure electrical wiring systems are safe.
Electrical contractors use the NEC for estimating, designing and installing electrical systems. Professional, licensed electrical contractors stay current with the NEC requirements. Maintaining compliance with the requirements of the National Electrical Code provides the requirements necessary for public safety. Call 247 Local Electrician! ( 833) 220-2525 . Licensed, Code Compliant Electricians!

Electrical Troubleshooting

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 16:41:00 GMT

Electrical Troubleshooting is problem-solving used to repair failed electrical circuits on machinery or an electrical system. Depending on the type of equipment, troubleshooting can be a very challenging task. Troubleshooting includes identifying a probable cause for a problem and then implementing a solution and preventative measures. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for all your residential and commercial electrical troubleshooting needs.

Electrical troubleshooting can be defined as an act of determining faults in an electric circuit by analyzing the behavior and operation of the faulty circuit, after which repairs are made to the defective component

Static Electricity

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 19:29:00 GMT

Static electricity is an imbalance of electric charges within or on the surface of a material. The charge remains until it is able to move away by means of an electric current or electrical discharge. Static electricity discharges can provide a source of ignition for flammable substances and damage electrical components. Call 247 Local Electrician at 247 Local Electrician for all of your commercial and residential electrical service needs!

Static electricity is an imbalance of electric charges within or on the surface of a material or between materials. The charge remains until it is able to move away by means of an electric current or electrical discharge

Smart Homes of the Future

Sat, 22 Jul 2023 18:29:00 GMT

Wiring designs for smart homes include in-wall transmitters, whole-house surge protection, and isolating non-automation loads. The long-term benefits of a smart home include energy savings by automating and controlling electricity usage. Call 247 Local Electrician at(833) 220-2525 for all your specialized residential electrical wiring needs.

Electricity From Water

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 21:33:00 GMT

Hydropower, or hydroelectric power, is a renewable source of energy that generates power by using a dam or diversion structure to alter the natural flow of a river or other body of water.

info@24-hour-electrician.net

Nikola Tesla Was an Inventor and Futurist

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 17:56:00 GMT

Tesla tried to put his inventions to practical use in his Wardenclyffe Tower project, an intercontinental wireless communication and power transmitter. Tesla’s intention was to develop a system that would provide free, wireless electrical power and communications to the world. The project’s primary backer, financier J. P. Morgan, refused to support a system for free power, and Tesla’s dream was never realized. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for all your residential and commercial electrical needs!

Energy From Wind

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 18:46:00 GMT

Wind energy refers to the process of capturing kinetic energy using the winds that occur naturally in the earth’s atmosphere.

For centuries, windmills usually were used to mill grain and pump water. The use of windmills was increasingly widespread from the 12th century until the early 19th century. Today’s modern wind turbines only produce electrical power, producing anywhere from 50 kW up to 600 kW. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for all your commercial and residential electrical needs!

The Scorching Arizona Summer

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 20:27:00 GMT

Because of the warmer weather in the summer, the overall energy usage rises.

Electricity demands increase drastically during the scorching Arizona summer. You can save energy by keeping window blinds, shutters or drapes closed during the daytime. Operating a refrigerator in a hot garage can cost you up to $15-$20 in electricity per month. Replacing the lighting in your home with energy-efficient LED lighting will save energy and money. Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for all your residential and commercial electrical needs!

3 Phase vs. Single Phase Power

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 15:26:00 GMT

Single Phase power is a two wire Alternating Current (AC) power circuit.

Most people use it every day because it’s the most common household power circuit and powers their lights, televisions and some appliances.

Typically there is one power wire and one neutral wire, and power flows between the power wire (through the load) and the neutral wire.

Three Phase power is a three wire Alternating Current (AC) power circuit. Compared to single phase, a 3 phase power arrangement provides more power with the same current and provides more power circuits.

Most US commercial buildings use a 3 Phase power arrangement because of its power density and flexibility.

Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for all your licensed commercial and residential electrical needs!

Electric Vehicle Charging

Sun, 16 Jul 2023 19:11:00 GMT

All Electric Vehicles come with a means to be connected to the power grid. The charging station that converts AC house current into DC electricity is built into the vehicle. Most models include a basic 110-volt charging unit that plugs into a standard electric outlet via a conventional three-prong plug.

This is called Level 1 charging, and assuming you already have basic electric service, it’s the cheapest. However, it’s also the slowest. Depending on the vehicle and its battery capacity, it can take anywhere from eight to nearly 24 hours to bring its power cells up to a full charge. Level 1 charging is basically a trickle charge that generally gets you just 2 or 3 miles of driving range for every hour of charge time.

The best choice is to have an electrician install a dedicated circuit to take advantage of what’s called Level 2 charging. This can replenish a depleted battery in around four hours. Level 2 charging is much quicker because it’s done at higher voltage and at higher amperage. You’ll also need to purchase an external Level 2 charging unit.
Call 247 Local Electrician at (833) 220-2525 for your EV Charging station installation!

Electrical Safety in Your Home is of the Utmost Importance

Sat, 15 Jul 2023 19:16:00 GMT

Electrocution is the most severe consequence of improperly handling electricity, which can result in death. An electrical current passing through the body causes electrocution, which can result in burns, seizures, and cardiac arrest. Wet hands or standing on a wet surface should never be used to touch electrical appliances or wires.

Electrical fires can be devastating and are frequently the result of faulty wiring or overloaded circuits. This can be avoided by ensuring that all electrical installations are performed by a licensed professional and by avoiding overloading electrical outlets.

Children are naturally inquisitive and may be attracted to electrical outlets and wires. It is essential to cover all electrical outlets with child-resistant caps and keep electrical cords out of the reach of children.

Important for personal safety is ensuring that electrical appliances are in proper working order and used as intended. Severe injuries may result from faulty or improperly used appliances.
Property damage: Electrical surges and other electrical problems can cause property damage, which can be costly to repair. Regular electrical installation and appliance maintenance can help prevent this.

The safety of electricity in the home should not be taken lightly. It is essential to adhere to all safety regulations and ensure that licensed professionals like 247 Local Electrician perform all electrical installations. You can help ensure the safety of yourself, your loved ones, and your property by taking these precautions. Call us at 623-363-5648.

The Benefits of Modern Electricity

Sat, 15 Jul 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Modern electricity has brought significant benefits to society, making our lives easier, more efficient, and more connected.

Electricity has replaced many manual tasks, which has led to increased efficiency and productivity in almost every industry. The ability to transmit electrical signals has revolutionized communication. With the help of electricity, people can communicate across the globe in real-time. Electricity has made our lives easier and more comfortable.

It powers our homes, heats our water, cooks our food, and provides us with light and entertainment. Electricity has enabled the growth of many industries, from manufacturing to transportation. This has led to economic growth and job creation. Electricity has revolutionized health care, allowing for advanced medical procedures and technologies that would not be possible without it.

Modern electricity has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change through the use of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.
Modern electricity has brought significant benefits to society, making our lives easier, more efficient, and more connected.

Circuit Breaker Panel Electrician in Phoenix

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 21:44:00 GMT

Is the Circuit Breaker Panel in Your Phoenix Home or Business Safe?

The failure in this Federal Pacific panel almost cost this family a lot more than just an expensive repair.

Unfortunately, this is not the first time we have seen a Federal Pacific or Zinsco panel unsuccessfully fail-safe.

This breaker was supposed to prevent more than 20 amps of current into that circuit by tripping the breaker. Instead, it allowed much more current through which turned into heat causing the electrical meltdown you see in the picture.

What it also did was turn the wire running through the home into a heating element which, had it continued much longer, would have inevitably caused the noisy red trucks to show up and a catastrophe for the family and the property.

To prevent this from happening, please call your local Phoenix Electrician 247 Local Electrician to inspect your panel, your electrical system, and keep you and your family safe.

Why is it important to have your Circuit Breakers inspected?

Your circuit breaker panel is designed to do a number of things. Its main function is to channel electricity from the electrical main supply line to the individual circuits in your home.

You know, the circuits that power your appliances, lights, and electronics. It also is supposed to protect them by blocking electrical current if too much is requested or provided.

So, it is important that your circuit breaker panel is not only installed properly but also maintained and inspected to ensure it does not have any issues that could lead to damage in your electrical system or worse yet cause a fire in your home or business.

To learn more about circuit breaker panel installation, inspection, and repair services, c all our expert electricians at 247 Local Electrician in Phoenix today.

Do You Need Circuit Breaker Panel Installation or Repair in Phoenix

The circuit breaker is the center of your home’s electrical system and must be in top working condition at all times.

If you have an older fuse box or your circuit breaker panel is showing signs of wear like rust, burn marks or if the breakers trip very often, you should consider having the system inspected and quite possibly, replaced.

Circuit breaker replacement is not a simple electrical job!

Installing a new circuit breaker panel in your home or business is relatively complicated.

You must be aware that the electrical supply for your home must be turned off and the major wiring will be removed or changed.

The actual breaker box will have to be replaced with a comparable model and all of the breakers must be matched to the old configuration.

This is why it is extremely important that you hire a licensed and insured professional electrician to handle the entire circuit breaker installation or circuit breaker replacement.

Our trained professional electricians at 247 Local Electrician will also let you know if any wiring in your home should be replaced. This is the perfect time to have such work done.

Phoenix Circuit Breaker Panel Maintenance, Inspection, and Repair

Extend your circuit breaker’s lifespan with regular maintenance. We provide both tune-ups and ongoing maintenance plans to help you rest easy knowing that your homes electrical system in perfect working order.

Our licensed and insured electricians are also available for immediate repair services if a problem has developed that is causing your circuit breaker panel to flip often or it is not working properly.

If you suspect a problem with your circuit breaker panel, call us asap for an immediate inspection and any repairs. Waiting can lead to severe and expensive damage or potentially dangerous conditions.

Our goal is to always exceed your expectations and provide the service you deserve!

247 Local Electrician is conveniently located in North Phoenix providing service throughout the valley including Scottsdale, Cave Creek, Carefree, Glendale, Paradise Valley, Peoria, and the East Valley.

Electrical Outlet Repair and Replacement Phoenix

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 18:56:00 GMT

Why Is My Electrical Outlet Not Working?

In our everyday lives, we take electricity for granted. We flip a switch or plug in an appliance, and something turns on. When you plug something in and find an electrical outlet is not working, it’s very frustrating.

There are several different reasons your outlet may not be working, and it is important to be very careful and avoid diagnosing the problem yourself.

A trained and licensed Phoenix electrician can usually find the problem and fix it very easily.

What Should I Do First?

Keep in mind that when a circuit breaker trips, the switch doesn’t always flip to the opposite side. Many times it sticks somewhere in the middle; sometimes it is hard to discover without manually feeling each breaker.

Once you turn the breaker back on the outlet should work again. If the breaker continues to shut off, you most likely have an overload problem.

If your home has GFCI outlets always check them first because when a GFCI trips it may cause other outlets to stop working also. These types of outlets are very common in bathrooms around wet areas like sinks.

If you are plugging multiple items into the outlets, try unplugging a few things.

When is time to call a Licensed Phoenix Electrician?

Electrical outlets can go bad for no apparent reason. Their contacts can become loose, and the entire unit may simply need to be replaced. This is more common in older homes and buildings.

If you notice any signs of blackening around the outlet plugs do not use the outlet! In most cases the outlet needs to be replaced and continuing to use it may cause a fire.

Electrical work can be very dangerous and we highly recommend you call a professional electrician. One simple mistake like failing to shut down the proper breaker switch on the panel can result in serious injury.

Improper installation of a wall outlet can also cause a fire or lead to someone getting shocked when they plug something into it.

What does electrical outlet repairs cost?

Without having an actual look at the outlet, the circuit panel board and the wiring in your home, it is impossible to nail down a cost for repair or replacement of an outlet.

Why is 247 Local Electrician a top Phoenix Electrician?

We pride ourselves on excellent customer service…

247 Local Electrician provides the same great customer service regardless of project size. Whether a basic service call to your home or a large commercial installation, our pricing is competitive.

We have built a solid reputation throughout the Phoenix metro area by providing honest quality work.

247 Local Electrician is conveniently located in North Phoenix providing service throughout the valley including Scottsdale, Cave Creek, Carefree, Glendale, Paradise Valley, Peoria, and the East Valley.

Benefits of Regular Electrical Maintenance

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 21:28:00 GMT

What is Electrical Maintenance?

We rely on electricity all day everyday. Whether it’s at home or in the office, electricity powers our every move. Sometimes it’s easy to forget just how much we rely on this technology, especially when we don’t see its power everyday. Although we are using electrical components in most things that we do, it isn’t often that we think about what’s going on to make it all possible.

Electrical maintenance is the upkeep of all things electric. From generators to breakers, making sure that your home or business’s electrical applications are in working order is important for more than one reason.

Prevent at Home Hazards

No matter how you spin it, electricity is dangerous. The misuse of electrical applications, incorrect wiring, or out of date components can result in serious consequences. Some of these consequences include life threatening mishaps, like shocks, burns, and fires.

Most of these, however, are preventable. Regular electrical maintenance is one of the ways in which electrical hazards can be stopped ahead of time. When trained electricians check up on the electrical components that power your home, they can detect if there are any minor problems before they become major issues. By replacing and servicing any applications that may not be suitable for a home or business owners’ electrical needs, dangerous situations can be avoided.

247 Local Electrician Arizona’s leading electrical service and repair company, believes that electrical maintenance is necessary to stop potential hazards in their tracks. With decades of experience in all things electric, Turn It On’s expert electricians explain that there is nothing worse than arriving at a job site with an emergency that could have been prevented. They say this happens often but is unfortunate because of the electrical maintenance services that are readily available at all times.

Reduce Costly Expenses Down the Road

When people do not have regular electrical maintenance on their applications, they are at risk for even higher costs in the future. Though maintenance takes some out of pocket expense, when problems arise that could have been stopped ahead of time, emergency repairs are much, much more costly.

A few maintenance fees are seemingly nothing compared to what homeowners pay when more serious damages occur due to run down, old component errors. There is no doubt that you will save money in the long run with regular electrical maintenance. For business owners, whose damages can often be more detrimental because of the size and amount of electricity running through office buildings, maintenance is key.

Get Ahead of the Problem, Today!

Do not hesitate to have your electrical components inspected as soon as possible. Whether or not it has been months or years since your last check up, be sure to call a professional to take a look at your electrical applications soon. It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially with something as important as electricity!

For more information on all electrical services and repairs, call 247 Local Electrician today!.

What Is A Zinsco Panel?

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 23:02:00 GMT

are crucial for electrical use in any home or business. We all have electrical panels supplying our electricity, but whether you know it or not, some of your electrical panels could be a hazard for you and your loved ones. Zinsco panels are a brand of electrical panels that were installed across North America decades ago. Although they were initially popular because of their efficiency and cost-effectiveness, the use of Zinsco panels quickly diminished when the dangers of these panels were discovered.

Hazards of Zinsco Panels

After hundreds of similar incidents, it was found that Zinsco panels were to blame for frequent electrical shocks, short circuits, and fires. Due to significant flaws in the design of the panels, after wear and tear of the breaker, the breaker and aluminum bars in the Zinsco panel melt together. Once adhered to one another, there is no way for the breaker to trip.

If a breaker in any electrical panel cannot trip, there is no telling how much of an electrical current will flow through a system. Without anything to stop an overcurrent, the electrical panel and all that it supplies is subject to extreme heat and fires.

You could be in danger without even knowing so, if your home or business is still using a Zinsco panel.

Replace & Feel Safe!

It is not easy to determine whether or not there is a problem in your Zinsco panel at first glance. Though more likely than not your Zinsco panel will have the same defects as most others, it is crucial that you let a trained professional take a look at the panel. Working with electricity is always complicated, increasing the dangers that come with the territory.

247 Local Electrician highly qualified electricians are experts in replacing Zinsco panels. We will come out for an inspection of your panel, identify the problem areas, and replace the panel same day. We are eager to get a new panel up and running in your home, in order to ensure that you are your loved ones are safe from these hazardous panels.

Let 247 Local Electricians make your home or business safe and free from fire-causing Zinsco panels, today. There is no time like the present to replace your panel, a simple fix could be life-saving!

Call 247 Local Electrician to learn more about how we can help protect your home.

10 Ways To Lower Your Electricity Bill In Arizona

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 00:41:00 GMT

Most Arizona consumers are very selective when it comes to choosing their phone service provider, deciding which gas station to go to save the most amount of money, or picking a car insurance company that has the cheapest rates. However, when it comes to saving on the costs of electric bills, very few residents know exactly what they are paying for or how to lower your costs. This article will lay out 10 different strategies you can do to help drastically lower your electricity bill so that you can save and spend money on the things in life that are really important to you.

10 Ways To Save Money On Your Electricity Bill In Arizona

1. Determine the cost per kilowatt-hour of electricity used per month.

I know this sounds pretty confusing, but it is really simple, and will take you just a few minutes to figure out. To do this, take your total cost on the electric bill and divide it by the total kilowatt-hours.

You’ll see how this step will save you money in the next few steps.

2. Do not choose a standard or basic plan from your utility company

Too many customers choose the standard plan because it is easier to understand. However, the standard plan will end up costing the most amount of money.

A standard electricity plan, during the hottest months (May through October), can get very expensive, depending on the usage rate. However, with some of the other available plans, you have the option of having low-cost times and high-cost times, which can save you a fortune.

3. Get on a time of use plan

In combination with tip #2 above, if you purchase a time of use plan, you can save a ton of money by using energy hungry appliances during the off-peak times.

Since people are more likely to use things such as the A/C and fans during times of the day when it is really hot, utility companies really increase the prices during these times.

Use A/C, turn your fan on, and use appliances during off-peak hours to save a ton of money.

4. Run washing machines and dryers at night and in the morning instead of the afternoon

By running washing machines during non-peak hours, such as during nighttime and morningtime, your energy costs will go down substantially and you will save a good chunk of money.

5. Run the A/C at night and in the morning

By doing this, you can help keep your house cool, so that during peak hours when the A/C is turned off, the house will still be at a nice temperature.

6. Be aware of “demand charges”

Often time, utility companies offer lower costs to reel in unknowing customers only to impose what is called a “demand charge” on them. What this means is although energy costs are lower, which is great for saving money, a demand charge of over $13 will be given for every kilowatt (which is different than a kilowatt-hour) used during the hour that you use the most amount of energy during the month.

In simpler terms, you will get charged substantially more during the day of the month that you use the most amount of energy.

7. Keep your drapes closed to help keep the heat out

By closing your drapes, it helps to insulate your house and keep the heat away, which can greatly decrease your electricity bill.

8. Avoid taking baths

Taking showers uses less water. Instead of taking baths, try to take short showers instead to help save on energy costs!

9. Switch to LEDs

LED light bulbs are way more efficient and save up to $80 over the course of the bulb’s lifespan. Using LEDs, as well as turning off unused lights, can help decrease costs on your energy bill.

10. Use cold water or warm water when possible

Using hot water costs a lot more in energy costs than using cold water. Whether it is your dishwasher, your laundry machine, or taking a shower, it can save a substantial amount of money if you use cold water, rather than hot water. Better yet, contact 247 Local Electrician to install an energy saving water heater timer. This way your water heater will only heat water when you need it.

10 Steps to Babyproofing Your Home

Sun, 09 Jul 2023 04:17:00 GMT

Statistics show unintentional death (accidents, injuries, poisoning, falls, etc.) as one of the 10 leading causes of death for babies and children ages 1-19. Some of these dangers can be reduced or eliminated by childproofing and babyproofing your home.

When to Babyproof Your Home

Babyproofing your home is something most parents-to-be consider before the birth of their first child. But no matter the ages of your children, childproofing and babyproofing your home is a safety solution that minimizes danger zones in your house. It’s also something that is age-specific for your property, too.

For example, if you have an older home, you should check to be sure lead paint has not been used (poisoning hazard). There’s also a chance you may have an electrical panel known for its design flaws and subsequent dangers (fires, shocks, and short circuits). We encourage our friends and neighbours to replace your Zinsco panel for peace of mind – yours and ours! Here are some additional parenting tips for babyproofing your home:

Babyproofing Your Home

Electrical babyproofing your home means making safety a priority for every age of your child, from infant to toddler to teen. Whether you’re building new this year or planning a renovation project, homeowners who want the best turn to 247 Local Electrician for electrical solutions. Simply put, at 247 Local Electrician we care about your home and business property. Safety and installation regulatory compliance is critical for our customers. We’re invested in the quality and integrity of our work because we live here, too. Sometimes we can provide over-the-phone estimates, so call us today to learn more about our electrical services.

How to reduce shadows in your bathroom

Sat, 08 Jul 2023 01:57:00 GMT

Have you ever wanted to increase the lighting or reduce shadows in the bathroom or kitchen? It’s amazing what good lighting can do to help you get ready in the morning. But, to do it right, you may need to change or enhance your existing lighting scheme. As a rule, the original lighting scheme in most bathrooms just meets the basic requirements.

Fortunately, plenty of choices are available that will turn the lighting into an attractive and fully functional system. One that helps you perfect the look of both your personal appearance and the bathroom itself.

Lighting and Bathroom Zones

Some bathrooms are purely functional rooms with lighting schemes to match. An overhead light in a bathroom does allow you to see, but it casts shadows on everything below it. Other than providing basic illumination, this type of lighting does nothing to enhance the room or its occupants.

Master suite bathrooms, especially among newer homes, may contain an enclosed toilet with a lone light fixture on the ceiling. If the ceiling plate is nine feet or higher, even a bright bulb won’t provide enough light in this space.

A master bathroom with double sinks in the vanity typically has a light strip centered between the sinks. This doesn’t adequately illuminate the whole vanity top. And if the builder installed a sitting desk between the sinks for applying makeup or styling hair, the lighting is likely in need of a serious upgrade.

Large master bath suites may have recessed lighting in the areas over the water closet, the tub and shower, and the dressing areas. While recessed lighting does a good job of illuminating the floor and horizontal surfaces, it does nothing to reduce shadows. In fact, it creates more shadows than any other kind of bathroom lighting.

Lighting Principles to Reduce Shadows

Whether it’s in a photo studio or your bathroom, light behaves predictably. Follow these guidelines when observing the lighting in your home:

Lighting and Electrical Specialists

When you’re considering making upgrades to reduce shadows in the bathroom or a kitchen, the two rooms that must be as functional as possible, it’s a good idea to work with lighting experts who are also licensed electricians. Both rooms have a good deal of exposure to water and safety is paramount. In fact, the National Electrical Code has separate provisions for wiring in bathrooms and kitchens.

The bathroom, especially, is a compact space where sinks, showers, and tubs may be within a short distance from electrical receptacles and switches. It’s also a place where trailing wires from hair dryers, shavers, or space heaters should be carefully considered.

At 247 Local Electrician, we know what kinds of lighting fixtures will give you the best results to reduce shadows. When we combine the right light fixture with positioning and globe materials, it has a dramatic impact on your living space.

Lights mounted on each vertical side of the mirror will eliminate the shadows and give you a truer reflection of your appearance. We can also show you other upgrades like dimmer switches that make bathrooms more convenient and enjoyable.

Contact 247 Local Electrician for an estimate on new lighting in your bathroom or kitchen today.

Babyproofing your home – what you need to know

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 04:03:00 GMT

Welcoming a baby into your life is an exciting and joyful time. But it’s understandable if you’re also nervous about it. It doesn’t take long for them to start crawling around and learning how to walk. Once they’re mobile, it’s important to make sure your home is a safe place for them. Keep the following tips in mind for babyproofing your home.

Secure Furniture and Electronics

As babies get older, they enjoy climbing on furniture and reaching for items on shelves and other high places. Bookcases, televisions, dressers and other large pieces of furniture and electronic equipment can tip over, resulting in serious injuries. In fact, furniture and other items tipping over sent roughly 21,000 children to the hospital with injuries between 2011 and 2013. In order to lower this risk, you should use anti-tip brackets to secure dressers, bookcases, and similar items to the wall. You should mount televisions to the wall or place them on TV stands or media centers.

Cover Electrical Outlets

Electrical outlets are typically located on the lower part of walls, which makes them easy targets for babies. Young children can be severely shocked or burned if they stick items, such as paperclips, into electrical outlets. Roughly 2,400 children end up with these kinds of injuries each year from outlets. Putting outlet caps or covers over electrical outlets helps reduce the risk of these injuries. However, it’s too easy for your little one to remove caps and they also present a choking hazard. Keep in mind that these aren’t the only ways to make outlets safe. Installing tamper-resistant electrical outlets provides even more safety than caps and covers. If your home was built prior to 2008 it’s likely you don’t have tamper-resistant outlets.

Hide Electrical Cords and Wires

Babies learn about their environment by sticking objects in their mouth. Electrical cords and wires can cause serious injuries if babies put them in their mouth while they’re plugged in. Cords and wires are also tripping hazards for babies who are learning how to walk. They’re also dangerous if young children play with them or put them around their neck. Keep cords and wires hidden away with cord covers or by securing them to the wall in an area that your baby can’t reach. If you find yourself running extension cords because your outlets are in an inconvenient location, it may be time to add a few outlets to your home.

Babyproof Cabinets and Drawers

Babies are curious by nature, which means that they love to explore cabinets, drawers, and cupboards. Since these areas often contain items that could harm your baby, such as knives or cleaning products, you should make sure to lock them from tiny hands. Use childproof locks on drawers, cabinets, and cupboards, which helps keep your baby from opening them. You’ll still be able to get them open easily enough, but your baby will be safe from any harmful items in these areas.

Unplug Unused Appliances and Electronics

Leaving toasters, hair dryers and other electronics and small appliances plugged in when you’re not using them can be dangerous if your baby is able to reach them. To reduce the risk of electric shocks and other injuries, make sure to unplug these items when they’re not in use.

If you find yourself worrying about the electrical hazards in your home, contact 247 Local Electrician to learn more about our babyproofing services. Our expert electricians can help you make your Phoenix home safer for your baby.

Different types of lighting and how to use them

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 16:49:00 GMT

More than likely your home has different types of lighting, each of which helps you manage and enjoy the many aspects of everyday living. Ambient, accent, and task lighting are the main types illuminating the interior of your home. However, the objective is the same – to make it easy to see regardless of the time or the weather.

Ambient Lighting

You’ll find ambient lighting fixtures on the ceilings in kitchens, baths, closets, hallways and sometimes bedrooms. Builders often install a lone light fixture in the middle of a garage ceiling. Sometimes the lighting fixtures are basic globes, but you’ll also find them as more elaborate fixtures in foyers or adjustable track lights in kitchens.

These light fixtures broadcast enough light over a room to make everything visible. They won’t highlight any particular area. Consequently, they cast shadows on objects that sit on the floor or walls beneath them. Builders or lighting specialists often hard-wire ambient lights to a wall light switch just inside the door for instant lighting.

Best Uses for Ambient Lighting

Ambient lights play an important role in safety and basic home functionality. Naturally dark spaces like kitchen pantries or walk-in closets without overhead lighting are difficult to use even during the daytime.

Ambient lighting upgrades include track lighting in kitchens and chandeliers placed in foyers and dining rooms. Decorative pendant lighting is a more informal style for these areas, as are recessed can lights.

Task Lighting

The effectiveness of task lighting depends on having different types of lighting in the same room. Combining under cabinet task lighting in kitchens or wet bars illuminates the countertops. Task lights are often freestanding in the shape of desk lamps and floor lamps, fixed or swing-arm, however, they can be hung under cabinets or from the ceiling. You should use ambient lighting with task lights to better illuminate the work you’re doing close-up.

Best Uses for Task Lighting

Placed on tables, desks, or next to chairs, task lighting is essential for detailed work like reading and handcrafts. Hung over work tables or desks, task lights provide ample illumination for work that requires accuracy day or night.

Cooking in a kitchen with task lighting is much easier and safer than using ambient lighting alone. While battery-operated light strips or spotlights are available for under-cabinet use, they require frequent battery changes and their mounting brackets wear out over time.

Accent Lighting

Of all the different types of lighting, accents lights are the least common in homes as standard features. Use accent lighting to illuminate artwork, musical instruments, or cabinet displays. People who decorate for the holidays often unwittingly use accent lighting in the yards when they string lights along their roof lines or thread them through their shrubbery.

Best Uses for Accent Lighting

Accent lights call attention to objects that hang from walls or sit on the floor. They can highlight your favorite photographs, artwork, or a piano. Outdoors, accent lighting enhances landscaping year-round and makes the yard more usable after dark by illuminating walkways and steps.

Upgrading Lighting Fixtures

Adding lighting fixtures that will add functionality and beauty to your home and yard requires the services of a licensed electrician. At 247 Local Electricians, our electricians are licensed and highly skilled. Wiring is a complicated home improvement project that affects your safety and that of your home.

The lights dim when I turn the vacuum on, is that normal?

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 16:59:00 GMT

You turn your vacuum cleaner on, and your lights dim. Is this something you should worry about, or is it a normal electrical occurrence?

Find out if dimming lights are harmless or if they may indicate a problem with your wiring. Knowing when to contact an electrician for your Phoenix home can provide you with peace of mind.

Normal Causes of Dimming Lights

If your lights dim briefly as soon as you turn your vacuum cleaner on, then return to normal, this is usually nothing to worry about. In fact, it’s normal for this to occur. Vacuum cleaners use a lot of electricity and starting yours up may cause the voltage to temporarily drop.

This might also happen with other appliances, devices or equipment that use a lot of electricity, such as microwave ovens or hair dryers. As long as the dimming is slight and doesn’t last, this is usually not a cause for concern. However, you can always have 247 Local Electricians check your home to provide you with peace of mind. You’ll know for sure whether or not it’s harmless or a sign of trouble when your lights dim.

If you have lamps or light fixtures that dim, check the bulbs before calling an electrician. Bulbs that are nearing the end of their lifespan often flicker or dim. Replacing these bulbs could solve the problem.

When to Worry if Your Lights Dim

If your lights dim drastically, or if they don’t return to normal after dimming, you should have them checked. If you have flickering lights, you should also have these inspected. There are other possible causes that can make your lights dim. These need to be found and corrected in order to prevent the risk of electrical problems. Some of the things that can make lights dim include the following.

Circuit Problems

Overloaded circuits occur when you have too much voltage running through them. This can end up making lights dim to accommodate the higher amount of power needed. If you have too much draw on one circuit, it could trip the circuit breaker. If you find that you have to reset breakers often, you should talk to a licensed electrician about installing a separate circuit. This helps break up the amount of power flowing through each circuit, which makes the breaker less likely to trip.

Wiring Problems

Wiring problems in your home, such as older wiring or wiring that is frayed, corroded or damaged, can make lights dim. This is considered highly dangerous, but a licensed electrician can locate the faulty wiring and replace it as needed. If you suspect your wiring may be causing dimming lights, you should have 247 Local Electricians inspect it as soon as possible.

Ballast Problems

Light ballasts are responsible for maintaining a steady flow of electricity to light fixtures. If you have a ballast that is damaged or worn out, this can cause dimming lights or too much brightness. Having us inspect and replace ballasts as needed could correct this problem. You’re more likely to have ballast problems if you live in an older home.

Call 247 Local Electrician

If your lights dim when you turn on an appliance or your vacuum, it could be a sign of a dangerous problem. Call 247 Local Electrician to assess your current situation. We’ll make sure that you don’t have anything to worry about and make any needed repairs promptly.

The benefits of led lights

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 16:59:00 GMT

A few decades ago, it was inconceivable to think LED lights could do so much to enhance lighting. Unlike other kinds of bulbs, LED bulbs use electricity to fire off photons that create light.

They are not heat-dependent like incandescent bulbs that need a metal filament to reach 4,132 degrees F to light up. All an LED bulb needs is a minute amount of energy that sparks the light-giving reaction.

CFL bulbs use about the same amount of energy as LED bulbs, but emanate light through a different process entirely. They use electricity to excite the molecules of gases to create the glow that emits light. In so doing, CFLs emit plenty of heat.

Energy Use

According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), an LED uses 75 percent less electricity than an incandescent bulb for the same amount of light. When shopping for the bulbs, you’ll find the wattage of the bulb on the packaging, along with the wattage of equivalent incandescent bulbs. A 5-watt LED bulb can produce as much light as a 35-watt incandescent bulb.

Heat Production

The DOE reports that CFL and incandescent bulbs emit 80 and 90 percent respectively of the electricity they use as heat. Considering the long, hot summers in the Phoenix area, using these bulbs instead of LED lights adds to the cooling load for many months of the year. A home that uses LED bulbs exclusively will stay cooler, which cuts your cost of cooling.

Colors and Lumens

Besides the strings of colorful holiday lights, LED lights are available in a variety of hues from red to purple and bright to subdued whites. The packaging will indicate whether they’re cool, warm, or bright white. Although the packaging for LED bulbs compares their energy use to incandescent bulbs, it has nothing to do with the amount of light they produce. The most revealing comparison is to look for their lumens. Higher lumens indicate more light.

Durability

Instead of measuring the lifetimes of LED lights in hours, they’re measured in decades. Even though the bulbs cost more, they start saving you money the moment you replace your old incandescent bulbs.

LEDs lights are also a good alternative to CFLs because they last longer and tolerate power interruptions better. LED lights excel in areas where you turn the lights on and off frequently, like garages, closets, and bathrooms. CFLs tend to burn out faster in these locations.

Safety

Some of the LED lights have plastic housings, which increases their safety since they won’t break on impact or create shards of glass. They also don’t emit enough heat to spark a fire, even around highly combustible materials.

Versatility

LED lights come in many colors, shape, and sizes as individual bulbs, lighting strips, and enclosed fixtures. They can be hardwired or run off batteries. You’ll find them in flashlights and grow lights in both large and small greenhouses. The only place LED bulbs aren’t suitable is inside ovens. Temperatures that exceed 212 degrees F interfere with LED technology.

Smart LED Bulbs

Smart LED lights have chips inside them that make it possible to control them remotely, as long as you have a compatible home hub or smartphone. Some will change their colors, permit geofencing, or play music. All are dimmable and operate on a schedule. The lights operate either via Wi-Fi signals or Bluetooth.

Bottom Line

Swapping out your old light bulbs with LED lights makes a lot of sense and will increase your home’s energy efficiency and enjoyment. While some bulbs are a simple do-it-yourself replacement, many larger fixtures require the work of a licensed electrician. Contact 247 Local Electrician today to learn about converting your home or business to LED lighting today.

How to lower your electricity cost

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 14:22:00 GMT

For many months of the year, your electricity cost may be a burden on your budget. Phoenix summers are unrelentingly hot and long, and energy bills skyrocket. It is possible to trim the bills associated with keeping your home comfortable by using major appliances wisely.

The biggest energy consumers in homes today include:

Choose a Plan

Both SRP and APS offer time-of-use plans that will lower your electricity cost as long as you pay close attention to the peak hours. These plans work well in situations where:

Heating and Cooling Systems

Water Heater

Even though the incoming water warms up in the summer, it still costs a lot to heat it. Shave your electricity cost for water heating by:

Pool Pumps

Laundry

Cooking

Lowering the Electricity Cost with Lighting

Take a walk through the house looking for outdated light bulbs and change them to LEDs. Besides lowering your electricity cost, these bulbs emit less heat than incandescent bulbs, which lowers cooling bills. If you want the greatest energy savings, ask 247 Local Electrician to show you how you can use LED lighting with smart technology to cut energy use.

Contact 247 Local Electrician for help lowering your electricity cost without having to sacrifice home comfort or conveniences today.

What are the top contributors to my electric bill?

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 20:18:00 GMT

Your electricity bill can fluctuate from month to month, depending on how much energy your household uses. Certain items account for a much higher portion of your bill, while others only contribute a little. Being aware of the biggest energy contributors can help you find ways to lower your energy usage overall.

Biggest Energy Users

The biggest source of energy use in your home is your heating and cooling system. Whether you’re using your air conditioner in summer or your furnace in winter, this makes up the biggest expense on your electricity bill. In fact, heating and cooling account for close to half of an average household’s energy usage.

The next highest contributor to your electricity bill is your water heater. Consider how often you rely on your water heater for hot or warm water in order to shower, take a bath, wash your hands, do your laundry or wash your dishes. This energy use adds up over time. Your water heater accounts for roughly 14% of your household’s energy use.

Your washer and dryer are also big energy users. Think about how many loads of laundry you do on a regular basis. The larger your family is the more loads of laundry you go through. This requires a considerable amount of energy for running your washing machine and dryer. Washers and dryers use around 13% of your total household energy.

Lighting is another big contributor to your electricity bill. If you’re home during the day, you most likely have lights on in your living room and kitchen most of the time. Having these lights on much of the time adds up in terms of energy usage. Lighting is just behind washer and dryers at 12% of a household’s energy use.

Smaller Energy Users

There are other items in your household that can make some difference in your electricity bill. However, these items don’t take up as much power as the larger contributors. Some of the smaller items that use energy include refrigerators, electric ovens, TVs, cable boxes, dishwashers, and computers. Vacuum cleaners and hair dryers also use a lot of electricity, although you usually only run them for shorter periods of time.

Ways to Save Energy

Finding ways to reduce the amount of energy you use helps make your electricity bill lower on an ongoing basis. You can lower your household’s energy usage by doing the following:

If you need help converting to LED lights, installing timers, or have other concerns about the electricity in your home or office, call 247 Local Electrician .

How to choose an affordable electrician

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 00:36:00 GMT

When you have an electrical problem or need an upgrade, it’s easy to think that an affordable electrician will be hard to find. While it’s true that electrical work doesn’t come cheap, it is helpful to know what to look for when you need an affordable electrician for any size electrical job.

Licensing

In Arizona, electricians must have an active state-issued license before they can legally practice as a contractor. The state has specific requirements for classroom and on-the-job hours before becoming eligible for the tests. An apprentice must spend five years on the job working under a licensed electrician to qualify for the exam.

Once licensed, the contractor must obtain a bond, liability insurance, and carry workman’s compensation insurance. All three protect the contractor and clients from accidents on the job or property damage.

Finding an Electrician

Besides word of mouth, the internet is a good resource for identifying an affordable electrician. Use trusted sites like Angie’s List, the BBB, and even Yelp. 247 Local Electrician enjoys A and A+ ratings with each of these sites. All three provide unbiased reviews from customers to help others search for a reputable contractor.

Once you’ve found an affordable electrician, check with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. They have an online database that identifies whether the contractor you’re considering has an active license, as well as bonding and insurance. Just type in the name of the contractor and the site will pull up the appropriate record. For work as critical as electrical, it’s crucial to have a licensed affordable electrician at your side.

Risks Associated with Using Unlicensed Electricians

Electricity carries a number of hazards to both people and property. Electrical shocks can be extremely dangerous, if not fatal, and electrical shorts can start fires. No one deliberately wires or repairs wiring with the intention of causing harm, but accidents and mistakes do happen.

When you use an unlicensed electrician, you run a high risk of liability should an accident happen at your home. The law treats you as a contractor when you use someone without a license in Arizona, and claimants can look to you for financial recourse.

Your homeowner’s policy may not cover work done by unlicensed contractors. It leaves you personally liable for the damages or injuries. These damages could run into the tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars.

The scope of Work, Hidden Fees, and Up-Selling

An affordable electrician with a solid reputation has no need to charge hidden fees or provide services that you don’t need. Since wiring and electrical services and components are complicated and use specialized terminology, it’s easy for a less scrupulous contractor to exaggerate the materials needed and their costs.

A legitimate affordable electrician like those from 247 Local Electrician will never mislead customers about the extent of the work that needs to be done. We know that nothing is more valuable than customer satisfaction and a solid reputation within the community. Charging hidden fees and up-selling aren’t ethical business practices and an affordable electrician who values integrity won’t engage in either practice.

Before you choose a contractor, make sure you’ve done some research. And if you don’t understand why or what the contractor is recommending, ask for a clarification. A trustworthy and affordable electrician will always take time to explain what needs to be done and why.

247 Local Electrician has no hidden fees. We estimate your project up front and get approval from you before we do extra work. We are a local company and we care about our customers. Contact us for an instant estimate.

Do you really need an emergency electrician?

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 00:33:00 GMT

Few things are as widely used in homes more than electricity. Sometimes it’s hard to know when to call an emergency electrician or just unplug an appliance. Electricity poses a significant health hazard for you and your home when it’s not handled safely.

Circuit Breaker Trips Frequently

Unless there’s a specific reason, a circuit breaker that shuts off frequently needs replacing, which will require an emergency electrician to keep your home running smoothly and safely. Causes could be a short circuit in the wiring in the walls or at an outlet. Depending on the issue, it may be more than just the circuit breaker that needs repair.

Burning Rubber or Acrid Odors

Hot, burning rubber has an unmistakable odor and when you smell it, investigate it immediately. If it’s coming from a single source, unplug the appliance or device immediately. Smells coming from the circuit breaker box will require an emergency electrician. Either throw the main breaker for your home or turn off everything in your home and unplug power strips and surge protectors.

An appliance whose electrical wiring overheats may or may not throw the breaker. The best thing to do is unplug the appliance after turning it off immediately and call the manufacturer’s customer service department.

If the odor is coming from a dishwasher, open the door and look for something plastic on the heating element. Removing the object should clear the air. Otherwise, turn the circuit breaker to the dishwasher off and call an emergency electrician.

Stained Outlets or Switches

Should you notice that an outlet or a switch has black smudges or smoke on it, contact an emergency electrician, especially if it’s a receptacle or switch you use frequently. Until it’s replaced, you should not use either the outlet or the switch. The black deposits could indicate overheating, which leads to unsafe wiring behind the faceplate.

Flickering or Dimming Lights

When the lights flicker or change their intensity, you may have an overloaded circuit. Running too many high-voltage devices on the same circuit will probably overload it. If the lights dim but the breaker doesn’t trip, you may have a bad circuit breaker.

After you call for an emergency electrician, take an inventory of how many electric devices are operating at the same time using the outlets on the circuit breaker. Some small appliances use substantial amounts of electricity, and to stay safe, avoid using too many on one circuit simultaneously.

As a rule of thumb, anything that creates or removes heat (like hair dryers, microwaves, and window air conditioners), uses a lot of electricity.

No Power

If you’re the only one on the block without any power, called 247 Local Electrician for an emergency electrician after checking with SRP or APS for outages in your neighbourhood.

Buzzing or Humming Noises

When these noises come from an appliance, they usually indicate a problem with the motor or frozen bearings. However, when the noises come from the circuit breaker panel, it signals a dangerous situation. A breaker may be stuck and can’t turn the circuit off, which causes the wires to overheat and could start a fire. Turn off the main breaker and call an emergency electrician to troubleshoot the problem.

If In Doubt, Call an Emergency Electrician

If you’re in doubt about whether or not you need an emergency electrician, it’s better to be on the safe side and call 247 Local Electrician

Where to go for good electrician jobs

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 00:38:00 GMT

Electricians have been performing essential services for homeowners and those with electronic devices since the late 1800s. We use more and more electronic devices every day. And the use of electricity in homes for lighting and other purposes continues to grow. This leads to greater demand for electrician jobs and those who can handle installations and repairs.

Today, those who want electrician jobs must have the right training. This training comes through an apprenticeship and meeting certain requirements, such as getting licensed in their state or municipality. Learn more about how to become an electrician and the kinds of responsibilities that are part of this job.

Earn Your High School Diploma or GED

While a college education isn’t a requirement for electrician jobs, you do need to at least have a high school diploma or GED. If you already have this, you should think about going through training at a vocational college or trade school in order to learn essential skills.

Complete Pre-Apprenticeship Training

This step can provide you with an advantage over competitors when you apply for an apprenticeship. Look into technical institutes, trade schools and vocational colleges around you that offer this type of training for electricians. During this training, you’ll gain knowledge about electrical theory, safety practices, the National Electric Code and more. You might also be able to have hands-on training.

Put in Your Apprenticeship Application

Check with organizations such as the National Electrical Contractors Association. The United States Department of Labor and online job boards also may show apprenticeships that are available. In order to apply, you’ll need to take basic algebra, arithmetic and reading comprehension tests. You’ll also have to go through a job interview and possibly take a drug test or meet other requirements before being accepted.

Finish Your Apprenticeship Program

You can expect this training to last for about four to five years. During your training, you’ll gain hands-on experience performing electrician jobs. You’ll also take relevant courses online or in a traditional classroom.

Over the course of your apprenticeship, you’ll learn and develop important skills for electrician jobs. These skills may include studying technical diagrams and blueprints, installing wiring, maintaining electrical equipment and inspecting electrical systems. You’ll also learn how to ensure that the work you do is in compliance with the National Electric code and regulations in your area.

Licensing and Certification for Electrician Jobs

In order to perform electrician jobs in the Phoenix, Arizona area, you’ll need to obtain a license from the State Registrar of Contractors in Maricopa County. Arizona does not issue these licenses at the state level. State and local laws don’t require you to be licensed during your apprenticeship, but you’ll need to be licensed to work as a journeyman or an electrical contractor.

For an electrical contractor license, you’ll need to have at least four years of experience in electrician jobs. You also have to pass a written exam. Keep in mind that the trade experience must have taken place within the past ten years in order for you to qualify for this type of license.

Here at 247 Local Electrician , we hire great electricians in the Phoenix area. If you have the drive and are ready to learn, or if you know someone who does, please contact us for more information on our available electrician jobs.

Finding the best electrician jobs

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 15:37:00 GMT

When it comes to finding electrician jobs, being able to find just any job isn’t challenging.

However, you might find that you end up working for a company that doesn’t suit you. In order to thrive in your career and put your skills to good use, it’s important to find the right company. This means finding a company that knows who they are and can identify the right people for the team.

When you’re looking for the best electrician jobs, ask the following questions to find the right company.

What Can You Tell Me About the Company’s Culture?

Knowing about the company’s culture can help you determine if it’s the right place for you to work.

Companies that are rewarding to work for have a clear purpose, and they know how to communicate it.

The company should also be dedicated to providing an environment that offers plenty of opportunities for those working electrician jobs to further develop their skills.

A company that doesn’t make an effort to motivate employees or has no clear purpose is one that you’re likely to regret working for.

How Do You Define Effective Communication?

Electrician jobs require a strong emphasis on effective communication.

This helps ensure a safe working environment for everyone involved. It also ensures that all jobs are done correctly.

When you’re looking for electrician jobs, find out how the company defines effective communication. This is a crucial part of working with remote teams or technicians in the field.

Avoid companies that do not place an emphasis on communication, since this can cause you to end up working in unsatisfying, unsuccessful or unsafe conditions on the job.

What Plan Do You Have in Place to Make Sure I’m Successful in the Position?

Even if you put in a tremendous amount of effort while looking for a job, certain factors that determine your success can be out of your control.

The company you work for should have a plan in place that takes all factors into account and ensures that you’re able to succeed in your position. This might include strictly enforcing safety standards on the job and providing you with ongoing training.

How Will I Know if I’m Doing a Good Job?

Most companies that offer electrician jobs give employees feedback on how they’re doing, perhaps during an annual review. However, this feedback tends to focus on negative aspects of an employee’s performance in order to encourage them to improve.

The best companies for electrician jobs take the opposite approach and emphasize the positive aspects of each employee’s performance. Focusing on strengths and accomplishments lets employees know how they’re doing.

These companies also provide some feedback on areas of improvement in order to give employees an opportunity to grow and develop their skills.

We can’t promise you that 247 Local Electrician is the right place for you, but you’ll never know unless we hear from you. Apply online, so we can connect to see if we’re the right company to help you succeed.

Beware of these hazards when childproofing a home

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 15:38:00 GMT

Sometimes it seems as if the speed of daily life should be measured in nanoseconds. Especially when you’ve got little ones in your life. While their natural energy is something to behold, and sometimes envy, their combined curiosity, and speed can put them in harm’s way, especially when it comes to cords, wires, and outlets. As a parent, you can’t childproof your home too quickly or too thoroughly when it comes to electricity.

Hazards to Be Aware of As You Childproof Your Home

Cords

Tuck cords for lamps, radios, or electronics behind the furniture where your little ones can’t reach them. Electric cords are a major safety hazard for young children. They may tug them, pulling down the device or lamp, or chew them, putting themselves at risk for electrocution. Childproof the cords by tucking them behind something heavy and immovable to eliminate the temptations they pose.

If you’re using a small appliance like an iron whose cord hangs near the floor, either put the baby or toddler in a safe place or reschedule the activity until naptime. There’s no good way to childproof an iron. Toasters are another fascination for youngsters. Unplug it after each use to prevent a serious shock. Children have a fascination with sticking forks into the toaster. Don’t leave a coffeepot cord within reach, especially if it’s in use. Always unplug hairdryers and put them away. If you use bathroom heaters, make sure they have anti-tip features and GFCI switches built-in.

Wires

If you find any bare wires visible inside your home, call 247 Local Electrician immediately. Uninsulated wires pose a safety hazard for everyone.

Receptacles or Outlets

Hand-me-downs are great for dressing your child, but when it comes to making your home childproof, reusing old plastic outlet caps doesn’t offer the best protection for the electrical receptacles. In fact, a Temple University study found that every child between 2 and 4 that they tested could remove the caps within 10 minutes.

The best solution to outlet safety is to install tamper-resistant receptacles throughout your home to prevent child electrocution. Some childproof experts recommend changing the outlets near the floor only, but we suggest changing out all of them. Saving a few dollars isn’t worth the hazard that receptacles pose for children.

Replacing them is not a do-it-yourself project since it involves taking out the old receptacles and installing the new ones. Each circuit breaker in your home will be turned off while the tamper-proof outlets are installed. Insurance companies take a dim view of wiring upgrades completed by the untrained and unlicensed. It’s much better to rely on a professional as you childproof the electrical system than risk your home and the safety of you and your family.

To Be on the Safest Side

While the electrician from 247 Local Electrician is in your home to help you childproof, he or she can check the functionality of your GFCIs (ground fault circuit interrupters) and the AFCIs (arc fault circuit interrupters). The electrician may spot other issues that need attention, as well.

Some of these steps to childproof your home can be performed by an average person and others, like changing receptacles and an overall safety inspection, require the help of a professional. Contact 247 Local Electrician , for help today.

Babyproofing 101: protecting your little ones from electricity

Sun, 25 Jun 2023 19:03:00 GMT

It’s difficult to imagine a world without the advantages of electricity! We use it every day, without thinking. Sometimes we forget small children are unaware of the dangers of electricity. Concerned parents know that babyproofing all areas in which toddlers roam is critical.

Electrical Dangers and Better Babyproofing

Babies learn through exploration but there are dangers throughout the home. It’s our job to keep these youngsters safe until they can understand the hazards in their world. The early years of mobility for a baby are possibly the most dangerous time. Pre-k children may begin to grasp the concept of danger and electricity, but for ages 2-5, babyproofing is essential.

Locate Electrical Hazards That Need Babyproofing

It’s a simple process: Get down on your hands and knees and crawl through the house. You’ll get a “baby’s-eye-view” of the world and can spot dangers. Look for and make note of electrical outlets, power strips, extension cords, hanging cords, and cords that are never unplugged. These are your electrical babyproofing targets: electrical outlets, extension cords, power strips, television, and unplugging.

Electrical outlets

In the U.S., twelve children will die as a result of severe electrical shock from outlets. Before you buy babyproofing products for electrical outlets, do a walk-through and examine them:

Extension cords

Extension cords should be temporary. Simply remove the child from the area when using an extension cord. They look good to chew, toddlers can trip over them, and they’re fun to tug, bringing whatever they’re plugged into down to the floor. If you need additional electrical outlets, the safe thing to do is have your local electrical contractor install what you need.

Power strips

The computer or entertainment area may have power strips for multiple electrical processes. These are usually on the floor; your baby’s favorite terrain for exploration. For the plugged-in outlets, you can purchase a childproof power strip cover. It slides over the power strip, protecting the outlets but allowing the cords to hang out.

Television

We know the difference between a television and an interactive toy, but babies don’t. First, remove all loose objects near the television. DVDs/DVD covers, remote controls, game controls, gaming devices – these are enticements for a developing toddler. Ten children die each year due to falling televisions. Televisions are top-heavy, so secure the television to the wall. (This is a great time to buy the wall-mounted flat-screen you’ve wanted.) Use TV anchors for shelf-top television units.

Unplugging

Some babies like to pull electrical cords out of the wall. The best way to prevent this is to put furniture in front of as many outlets as possible. You may need babyproofing outlet covers or “safe plates.”

Babyproofing Your Arizona Home

Your local, Phoenix-area electrician cares about safety of your family. If you have any questions or concerns about babyproofing your home, contact 247 Local Electrician . Ask us if an electrical assessment is a good idea for your property.

247 Local Electrician is LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified. What this means is we care about the environment – and your children’s future. We strive to find alternative solutions to promote sustainable energy.

Childproofing checklist – making your home safe

Sun, 25 Jun 2023 02:11:00 GMT

Your children are the most precious part of your life, so it’s understandable that you want them to be as safe as possible. Unfortunately, there is a wide range of potential hazards in your own home. To protect your children from harm and reduce the risk of falls, poisonings, burns, electrical shocks and other common causes of childhood injuries, it’s important to go through your entire home and do some childproofing. Keep the following checklist in mind, so you can make sure that your children live in a safe environment.

Poison Prevention

To lower the risk of accidental poisoning in your home, childproofing should include:

Furniture Safety

To prevent cuts and potentially serious injuries from falling objects, you should take the following childproofing steps:

Sharp Objects

Sharp objects can be a serious hazard to children. Take these childproofing steps to prevent this from happening:

Burn Prevention

To reduce the risk of burns, which can send children to the emergency room, make sure that you follow these childproofing steps:

Fall Prevention

Falls are one of the most common causes of hospitalization of children. You can protect your children from falls with the following childproofing steps:

Childproofing Your Home

If you need help childproofing your Phoenix home when it comes to electricity, contact 247 Local Electrician . We can help ensure that your children are safe from electrical hazards.

How your home electrical system works

Sat, 24 Jun 2023 02:11:00 GMT

As crucial to life as we know it, a home’s electrical system is a mystery to many. It’s easy to see the obvious about electricity, from towering power poles to the boxy transformers that sit in residential and commercial neighborhoods. Once inside the house, the electrical system is all but hidden from view and unnoticeable, until something goes wrong.

Transformers

Your neighborhood probably has one transformer sitting in someone’s front yard. The transformer receives the power from the incoming high voltage line and converts it into a level more suitable for residential purposes, like 120 or 240 volts. If your home were in a retail, commercial, or industrial area, the voltages available would be much higher.

The Electrical Meter

All the power you use goes through a meter that the power plant sends to your home. Every watt you use goes through the meter and the electricity provider keeps track of how much you use. For convenience, power companies measure usage in kilowatts, which are multiples of watts.

Before smart meters came along, you could literally watch the dial turning to get an idea of how much power your electrical system was using. It moves at a snail’s pace until the cooling or heating systems or the pool pump turns on. Electric meters hardly ever fail or have false readings, but it is possible. If you suspect a bad meter, call customer service for help.

As SRP and APS switch their systems to digital, you’ll have to monitor your electric system usage by checking online. Besides making meter reading easier, the digital meter conversion also helps power companies manage peak load distributions, which, when mishandled, can cause brownouts and blackouts.

While the loss of power is inconvenient, the power surges that occur during the recovery process can harm your electrical system or damage appliances. The best way to protect your appliances, including the HVAC system, is by having 247 Local Electricians install a whole-house surge protector.

Panels and Circuit Breakers

The electricity enters your home from a cable and immediately enters a panel with circuit breakers. Instead of running the same amount of power to each electrical receptacle and switch inside your home, the breakers divide it into service areas and only allow a certain amount of amps to be drawn.

Instead of labelling the breakers with volts, the electrical system measures in amps, another way of expressing the capacity of a breaker. A 20-amp breaker may be used for lights, while a 40-amp breaker may be used for kitchens and laundry areas. High power-consuming appliances have their breakers, like electric stoves, water heaters, and HVAC systems.

As their name implies, circuit breakers break or stop the power going through a circuit whenever a problem with the electrical system is present. Problems with the electrical system can create heat, and when a breaker gets too hot, it trips, which reduces the threat of fire. If you have a breaker that trips often, contact 247 Local Electrician for a diagnosis and repair.

Outlets and Switches

If your electrical system is working as it should, the outlets and switches are your only point of use. While most receptacle problems occur behind the scenes, a few are caused by plugging in a malfunctioning appliance.

Whenever you see a discoloured receptacle or smell smoke, unplug the appliance immediately and turn off the circuit breaker. The pros at 247 Local Electrician can replace the receptacle and help diagnose the problem. Switches are less prone to overheating but do wear out.

Every system can break down, so it’s important to maintain it. If you notice anything malfunctioning in your electrical system, contact 247 Local Electrician .

Using timers for maximum energy efficiency

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 05:28:00 GMT

Saving energy in your home is an effective way to help the environment, but it also offers other benefits. When you improve energy efficiency, you’ll save on your utility bills. Installing timers for different appliances and devices in your home is a simple way to reduce the amount of energy you use regularly. This significantly saves your electric, heating and cooling bills throughout the year.

Types of Timers

There are several kinds of timers available for Phoenix homeowners to use for better energy efficiency. Some of these include timers for hot water heaters, lighting, and smart thermostats. These timers provide you with an easy way to control the amount of energy your home uses.

Water heater timers allow you to reduce the amount of time your water heater runs during the day while lighting timers give you more control over how often your lights come on and how long they stay on. Smart thermostats have timers that can adjust your thermostat settings based on your daily habits for better energy efficiency. For example, your smart thermostat timer can raise the temperature in summer when you’re normally out of the house.

Appliance timers improve energy efficiency. These are separate timers that you can use to control a specific appliance or device, such as a coffee maker. If you want it to only be on for a certain period of time, you can install a timer for this purpose. Timers will turn off the appliance, preventing you from forgetting to turn them off when you’re not using them.

Timer Strips and Phantom Power

Timer strips can help boost energy efficiency and lower utility bills. These strips look like regular power strips, but they have a timer on them that lets you control when they turn on and off. This helps prevent several devices, such as computers and TVs, from drawing “phantom” power when they’re plugged into the strip but not on.

Phantom power refers to the power that electrical devices and appliances use while they’re not in use. These items will still draw a low amount of power if they’re plugged in. While it might not seem like much, this phantom power lowers your energy efficiency.

Tips for Using Timers for Energy Efficiency

How can you make the most use out of your timers? You’ll need to determine when these timers should be set to turn on and off. This depends a lot on your daily routine, such as when you’re usually asleep or out of the house.

For example, you might set lighting timers to turn on and off for a certain time at night. This cuts down on energy usage that results when you leave lights on, even when you’re not in a room. Keep in mind that you can save energy and money by converting to LED lighting in your home.

Timers, in general, should prevent appliances, lights, devices, HVAC equipment and other sources of energy from turning on when they’re not needed. They should be used for ensuring that these items aren’t left running for extended periods of time.

247 Local Electrician has the experience to install all types of timers to help homeowners in the Phoenix area improve energy efficiency.

5 simple bathroom/kitchen lighting upgrades

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 05:28:00 GMT

If you’re on the lookout for home improvements that make your home more livable and enjoyable, consider lighting upgrades for the kitchen and bathrooms. When light in these rooms is ample and carefully placed, everyday tasks are easier to accomplish.

1. Recessed or Can Lights

Installing recessed lights in your kitchen or bathroom gives them an inviting and warm feeling, especially if the rooms have a raised ceiling plate. Lighting upgrades like these are far enough from the floor to diffuse the light to create even light at the counters, lower cabinets, and drawers.

Of all the lighting upgrades, installing recessed or can lights is best left to the professionals at 247 Local Electrician. Besides precise cutting, the electricians have to snake wires through the walls and ceilings and make sure that the fixtures are tight and insulated.

It’s especially important if they protrude into the attic to have a tight fit to prevent air from leaking into the attic. Bathrooms are particularly humid and electrical work, even for simple lighting upgrades, should be made by an expert.

2. Under Cabinet Lighting

Putting lights or LED ropes under the cabinets makes the kitchen so much more functional on cloudy days and at night. The two options include a battery or hard-wired lights. Of the two, hard-wired lights are much more convenient since they provide a consistent amount of illumination and never need a battery change. Unless you use rechargeable batteries, battery-powered lights have a high cost over the long term since they deplete their batteries fairly quickly.

3. Spot Lighting

If you’ve added any work areas to the kitchen or the original lighting is inadequate, use lighting upgrades that will better illuminate those areas. Spot lighting over a kitchen island and the sink makes using them so much more efficient. See more clearly when cooking and cleaning in the kitchen.

4. In-Cabinet Lights

One of the most welcome lighting upgrades might be lights inside a dark linen closet or a deep, dark kitchen pantry. These spaces provide convenient storage, but without adequate light on each shelf, they’re inconvenient to use after dark. A lighting specialist from 247 Local Electrician can help you choose the types that work best for you.

5. Change the Color Temperature

All bulbs have a color temperature that you can change with lighting upgrades. LED bulbs come in several different color temperatures that affect how things look in a room. Bathrooms are particularly important rooms to have lighting upgrades that allow you to see things more clearly. If the color temperatures aren’t compatible with your workplace, your makeup may appear differently at home and the office.

LED bulbs give you the widest variety of colour temperatures, ranging from warm white to sunlight, a hue that emits a bright white appearance. It’s challenging to know how light will look in your home if you’re browsing the aisles at home improvement centres. The best way is to invite the pros from 247 Local Electrician to your home. We will help you choose different colours and types of lighting that best match your needs and surroundings.

Preparing your house to sell

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 05:28:00 GMT

Putting your home up for sale involves a good deal of thought and planning, especially if you’ve lived in it for a while. As you’re preparing your house to sell it, it’s important to critique its appearance and make improvements where you can. When making electrical upgrades, it’s important to consider the wiring behind the walls and the new fixtures you select.

Getting a Leg Up

If the people who buy your home plan to finance it, they’ll have to have a thorough evaluation of all its mechanical systems by a licensed home inspector. The inspection will include electrical safety.

It makes sense to have an independent electrical inspection performed when you’re preparing your house to sell, especially if you’ve experienced any of these issues regarding your electrical system:

Circuit breakers that trip for no apparent reason. Circuit breakers are safety devices that will shut the power off to a specific area or appliance if the wires are generating too much heat. A breaker or breakers that turn off at random times could signal a wiring problem.

Flickering lights. You might have too many appliances, computers, or devices plugged into one or more outlets on a particular circuit. Hair dryers, toaster ovens, microwave ovens and some garage tools use a significant amount of electricity. Have an electrician from 247 Local Electrician evaluate the circuit when you’re preparing your house to sell.

Discoloured switches or electrical outlets. Anytime you see soot – a black stained outlet, receptacle or a light switch; it’s time to call 247 Local Electrician even if you’re not preparing to sell your home.

Fixing any hazardous electrical issues should be at the top of your list. If you’re making electrical upgrades as you prepare to sell your home, call 247 Local Electrician .

How does a GFCI outlet work?

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 13:57:00 GMT

When you use specific electrical devices or appliances in your Phoenix home, you run the risk of being shocked if something goes wrong. A GFCI outlet can significantly reduce this risk. These outlets are designed to protect you and your family from electrical shocks that can be deadly.

What Is a GFCI Outlet?

A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet is a kind of outlet that’s responsible for watching how much electricity moves through a circuit. Changes in this electrical flow cause the outlet to stop the flow of power. This helps prevent electrical shocks from occurring when you’re using a hair dryer or other device that you’re physically contacting. Without this type of outlet, you could end up being shocked if there’s a problem with the electrical system.

Is a GFCI Outlet the Same as a Breaker?

A GFCI outlet is not the same as a breaker, although both serve safety purposes. GFCI outlets protect people from electrical shock, while breakers safeguard homes from current overload. Breakers are designed to “trip” if too much current is drawn, preventing electrical fires from starting. A GFCI outlet also shuts off the circuit, but it doesn’t quite work the same way.

How Does a GFCI Outlet Work?

A GFCI outlet keeps track of the amount of current that flows through the hot and neutral conductors. The neutral or grounded conductor is the larger slot on the left on an outlet, while the hot or ungrounded conductor is the slot on the right. Normally, electricity should flow between the hot conductor and the neutral one.

A GFCI outlet watches for imbalances in this flow of electricity and trips the circuit immediately if it detects any. These imbalances can be very small, such as 4 or 5 milliamps, which helps provide reliable protection from electrical shock. The most important part of a GFCI is that when it senses that imbalance, it trips very fast – less than a tenth of a second which saves lives!

Why Do Current Imbalances Occur?

Current imbalances can occur when there’s a problem that affects the grounding path from an electrical device to the ground part of an outlet. The ground is the hole that’s slightly below the slots in an outlet. When an imbalance occurs, the current can pass from the electrical device through the person using it rather than going to the ground. This can result in a potentially fatal shock.

A GFCI outlet expects the electrical current to flow between the hot conductor and the neutral one. When this doesn’t happen, which can occur when the current flows from the hot conductor through the user, the GFCI outlet trips the circuit.

Do GFCI Outlets Always Work?

A GFCI outlet does have a few limitations that you should be aware. It won’t trip the circuit if you happen to touch the hot and neutral conductors at the same time since it won’t detect an imbalance. This means you can get a severe or fatal shock from doing this.

GFCI outlets also won’t work as they should if installed incorrectly. This is why it’s essential to have an electrician wire these outlets if you have new ones installed.

Having various types of outlets installed, including a GFCI outlet, requires the assistance of a professional electrician. Contact 247 Local Electrician to replace or install any electrical outlets in your home.

How to protect yourself from power rate hikes

Sun, 18 Jun 2023 19:57:00 GMT

Your family depends on electricity for appliances, air conditioning, and many other household items. Having to rely on your local electric company means that you can end up facing power rate hikes. In fact, one local power company recently petitioned for a two percent rate increase after raising rates less than a year ago.

Unfortunately, there isn’t much you can do to stop these increases from happening. However, you can control how much power your home uses. Take the following steps to lower your energy usage on a regular basis. Doing so means that you won’t be affected as much by these power rate hikes.

Invest in High-Efficiency Devices

Devices that provide high energy efficiency can help curb the amount of electricity your home uses. These devices, such as smart power strips, can help prevent electronics and other items from drawing power when they’re in standby mode. This can save you money on your energy bills, even with power rate hikes.

Getting appliances, such as laundry machines, refrigerators, and stoves that are more energy-efficient can also reduce your energy usage. Over time, these savings can add up and help protect your budget when the next power rate hike occurs.

Use Energy-Saving Timers

Energy-saving timers help control when lights and certain appliances turn on and off. You’ll also save on energy costs if you use these timers to control major sources of energy use in your home, such as your water heater.

Get a Smart Thermostat

Heating and cooling your home throughout the year is the biggest part of your household’s energy usage. Adjusting the thermostat when you go to sleep or leave your home can help lower your energy bills. However, remembering to do this can be a challenge, resulting in even bigger bills when power rate hikes occur.

With a smart thermostat, you can count on having the temperature in your home adjusted at the right times without having to remember to do it. Smart thermostats can automatically adjust the settings to reduce your energy usage. For example, a smart thermostat will automatically increase a few degrees when you leave your home for the day. You can also control your thermostat from anywhere, as long as you have internet access.

Switch to LED Lighting

Regular incandescent light bulbs are the standard bulbs you find in many homes. These bulbs use more energy and don’t last as long as LED bulbs. This means you have to change them more often and deal with higher electric bills. While the bulbs do cost more initially, they are an energy-saving product. LED bulbs offer a simple way to lower your energy usage and protect against power rate hikes.

Don’t let future power rate hikes catch you by surprise. Contact 247 Local Electrician to speak to our electricians about upgrading to LED lighting, installing energy-saving timers, or switching to solar energy at your Phoenix home.

Benefits of installing dimmers in your home

Sun, 18 Jun 2023 01:58:00 GMT

Recent improvements in home lighting products for comfort, convenience, and energy efficiency are remarkable. Installing dimmers to control lighting takes their benefits to a new level. Instead of adapting to indoor lighting, you can use dimmers to make the ambience perfect for any situation in your home. There are several benefits to installing dimmers.

Change the Mood

You can change a brightly illuminated room to a dim, relaxed space with the slide of a finger. When you use standard non-dimmable lighting, you have to turn off each lamp until you reach the desired amount of light. Dimmers make this easy.

Good for Kids

Installing dimmers in a nursery or a child’s room benefits both the child and the parent. Children of any age can be afraid of the dark. Installing dimmers makes it possible to keep a low level of light. You won’t have to adjust the lampshades or experiment with which lights to keep on and which to turn off. If your child calls you in the night, it’s easy to turn the lights up, just a little, upon entering the room.

Increase Bulb Life

Since your bulbs aren’t working at full power all the time, they’ll last longer. This means you will also reduce the amount of time you spend replacing light bulbs. If you have a home with high ceilings, you’ll appreciate not having to break out the ladder or hire a professional to change the bulbs as often as you did in the past.

If you notice you keep the lighting dim all the time, you may want to consider using a light bulb with a lower wattage. There are a variety of options when choosing the right bulbs for your home. We can help you make the choice that’s right for your lifestyle and lighting preferences.

Connect with Smart Home Features

If you enjoy high tech features in your home, consider installing dimmers that are compatible with smart home features and phones. You’ll be able to select the light settings from wherever you are. It’s especially convenient if you have small children who can’t reach the light switches on the walls. They may become frustrated or frightened when they can’t turn the lights on. All you’ll have to do is adjust the app on your phone, and they’ll have the amount of light they want.

Dimmer lights can be fun, too. Some dimmable smart light bulbs even have a color selection. Imagine changing the lighting to a soft pink glow during a bedtime story. Or, maybe you like a bright blue light during a dance party. There are dozens of combinations of light intensity and color.

What Installing Dimmers Requires

Dimmer switches use the wiring in your existing wall switches to adjust the flow of electricity that goes to a fixture. Although they’re not especially difficult to wire, 247 Local Electricians recommends using a licensed electrician to safely do the work. We can help you choose the right bulbs to use, their wattage, and even their colour characteristics. Not every bulb will work with a dimmer.

Call 247 Local Electrician today to help you install dimmers throughout your home.

6 ways to save electricity

Sat, 17 Jun 2023 02:01:00 GMT

Conserving electricity serves two purposes – it helps you save money and it helps slow down global warming, which means it’s healthier for the planet! Take a look around your home right now. You will probably notice quite a few lights on, as well as other electrical items. If you’re looking for ways to save electricity here are a few ways to do that.

Natural Light

Everyone has windows in their home. You may even have a few that get a lot of natural sunlight. This is one of the best ways to save electricity. Rather than turning on lights in the room, simply open your curtains.

Be smart though! If you are having an exceptionally hot day, opening the curtains to let the light in will also let in the sun. This can make it too hot in your house – which means you’ll want to crank up the AC!

Change Your Lightbulbs

Regular incandescent bulbs can now be replaced with energy-saving bulbs, such as CFL or LED. The energy-saving bulbs may cost a little more. However, if you consider the amount of money they can save and how long they last, it might be worth it if you are trying to find ways to save electricity.

Some CFL and LED light bulbs have warranties attached to them. If you follow the warranty instruction and it fails within a specified amount of time, you can contact the manufacturer. As long as you’ve followed the instructions, they will send you a new lightbulb.

Make It a Habit!

Make it a habit: every time you leave a room, turn the light switch off. Have you ever come home to find all the lights on and the TV blaring in the other room? Be mindful of how many lights are on in your home. This is especially helpful during the hours when the sun is still out. You may be surprised to know that some people have anywhere from five to 13 lights turned on at any given time!

Unplug Appliances Not in Use

Did you know that even if an appliance is turned off and not being used, it’s still using energy? Leaving it plugged in may not use a lot of energy, but it can add up. Power down and unplug your TV, computer, and coffee pot!

Insulate Your Home

Did you also know that if your home isn’t insulated your AC or heat is working overtime? This can lead to higher energy bills. Taking little steps along the way, such as caulking or weatherstripping, can help.

You can hire a person to do an energy audit. They will come to your home with specialized tools to be able to see heat signatures. It will show where your home is “leaking” air. This could mean you are losing heat in the winter and AC in the summer months.

Use Renewable Energy

Using alternative renewable energy, such as wind or solar energy, can help lower your electricity bills too. For example, swimming pools can use a lot of energy using conventional products. However, if you use a solar cover to warm the pool, you can save electricity. You can use renewable energy resources for other products in your home, too.

By doing a few of the ideas above, you could save hundreds of dollars a year, depending on how many tips you use and the size of your home! If you need more information on ways to save electricity, contact 247 Local Electrician .

Benefits of tamper-resistant outlets

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 03:19:00 GMT

If you’re expecting your first child or remodelling your home, you may want to replace existing electrical receptacles with tamper-resistant outlets. In 2008, the National Electrical Code (NEC) began requiring them in new construction and as replacements when remodelling residential electrical receptacles.

Why They Are Now Code

Electrical outlets that are accessible by infants and toddlers have always been a safety hazard. Earlier child-proofing devices weren’t as foolproof as tamper resistant outlets. A determined toddler can quickly remove outlet caps. Caps are also a choking hazard and painful to step on with bare feet.

Sliding outlet covers aren’t as childproof as people hoped. Children are sponges and try to mimic what they see. After observing adults slide the outlet cover away to plug something in, they may copy.

With the new tamper-resistant outlets, there is only one way to access the live wires inside the outlet. It requires two objects to be inserted into the plug, for the electrical power to flow. After reviewing their track record, the NEC made them a wiring code requirement. Like any option, they are not entirely childproof.

Benefits of Tamper-Resistant Outlets

Each of the benefits of tamper-resistant outlets ensures your family’s health and safety. Dangers of electrocution drop, along with the risk of electrical fires caused by curious kids.

Children may try to stick narrow objects into electrical outlets just to see what happens. In previous outlets, if the object goes unnoticed, it’s possible that it could start a fire. Outlet electrical fires start with a buildup of heat at the terminals inside the outlet. As it increases, the wires get hotter and may burn, spreading to the surrounding wall materials.

Upgrading Outlets

They’re fully licensed, insured, and bonded. Working with electricity requires a solid knowledge base and safety is crucial. To get a license, electrical contractors and technicians must meet educational requirements and pass a knowledge test.
An expert from 247 Local Electrician can show you other upgrades to make at the same time. For example, you may want to install tamper-resistant outlets that have USB chargers built into them. Kitchens, family rooms,  and bedrooms are the most convenient places to recharge devices.
Insurance companies may not pay for damages caused by a faulty installation made by an unlicensed person.
A future home buyer may ask for a complete inspection of each outlet if an unlicensed electrician did the work. This could delay the sale of your home. It could also add an expense if they insist an electrician reinstall all the tamper-resistant outlets.

If you decide to install tamper-resistant outlets, leave the job to the professionals. Call 247 Local Electrician to schedule an appointment with a professional who will do the job right.

Everything you need to know about the different types of lights

Sun, 11 Jun 2023 23:10:00 GMT

Different types of lights allow you to use and enjoy your home , office, and the places you visit. Some make it possible to use the building around the clock. Others focus your attention on a specific detail, whether it’s a task or something to admire . Professionals classify types of lights into three categories that include general, task, and accent .

General Lighting

When you walk into a room and turn on the light switch, you are most likely turning on your general, or ambient, lighting . This type of light provides utility in lighting designs and can be found in most rooms of your house . General lighting can be ceiling-mounted or even recessed fixtures, as long as their purpose is to cast light evenly throughout the room.

You can dress up the appearance of general lighting by using recessed lighting, track lights, wall sconces, chandeliers, or pendants. Some kitchens, laundry rooms, and garages use overhead fluorescent bulbs. Although very different in aesthetic, e ach of these types of lights will broadcast light for the room. You can use dimmer switches with overhead lighting to give you the ability to change the look, without changing the bulb.

Commercial buildings typically use fluorescent general lighting . Imagine your office; that bright buzzing glow provides an evenly cast light throughout the area. Restaurants often consider the atmosphere they want to create for their guests and use softer ambient lighting to set the mood.

Task Lighting

If you want to illuminate a specific area of a room, consider task lighting. This smaller light directs attention where it shines.

Task lighting under kitchen cabinets can increase functionality by illuminating the work area below, making it easier to see what you’re cooking or cleaning. Another ideal place for task lighting in the kitchen is an overhead light at the sink. The professionals at 24/7 Local Electrician can show you the best kinds of task lighting to simplify work in the kitchen.

Other examples of task lights include floor, desk, and end table lamps. A floor lamp can illuminate a hallway, without the need for bright general lighting. A desk lamp can provide extra light when reviewing paperwork. End table lamps can lower the lighting in a room, while still allowing you to comfortably read.

Task lighting also has a place in the commercial world. These are often customized to the industry or business . Some businesses are even starting to use this type of lighting to increase productivity since it helps their employees focus on the task at hand. Designers use different types of lights that combine both form and function for retail and commercial buildings . The technicians at 24/7 Local Electrician can help you select the best lighting for each area of your home or commercial space.

Accent Lighting

Accent lighting is less common than the first two categories. However, there is still a place for them in homes and businesses.

Display cases or bookcases may have built-in accent lighting to highlight the contents . Accent lights also make it easier to read sheet music at the piano. Holiday lighting may even serve as a temporary accent light to highlight decorations .

You’ll find accent lighting in art galleries and museums when you notice a light illuminating a piece of artwork. You may see an accent light highlighting a water feature when you pull up to a restaurant. This type of lighting draws your eye to something worth admiring.

Creating Layers

Imagine sitting in a living room with one bright overhead light. You probably wouldn’t want to stay there for very long. Now imagine the same room with an overhead light, a few decorative side table lamps, and an accent light highlighting a painting on the wall. Creating layers of light in your home or commercial space will help it serve a variety of purposes.

A well-lit room will have multiple layers of lighting. Start big and consider the general lighting first. After you’ve determined the main lighting, then consider the details. Make a list of how you use each room and anything you want to highlight. A professional can help you determine what lighting will meet your needs.

Hire an Electrician

Lighting is complicated. For example, a recessed light could serve multiple purposes. If it shines light down from the ceiling to evenly illuminate the room, it’s general lighting. However, if it’s angled at a piece of artwork on the wall, it’s accent lighting. Both are recessed lighting, but they serve very different purposes in lighting your home .

Trust the professionals to help with everything from installing a ceiling fan to changing the entire lighting system in your home or commercial property . Contact 24/7 Local Electrician today to learn more about using the different types of lights to increase your comfort and productivity .

Where to install outdoor security lighting

Sun, 11 Jun 2023 03:04:00 GMT

Having outdoor security lighting for your Phoenix home can help deter intruders. It can also make it safer for you to walk outside at night, by lighting your path. You may have noticed your neighbor’s motion sensor flood light when you walk by their home. While this does light up their driveway, criminals have learned how to work around them.

Where should you put outdoor security lighting? Our electricians know the right areas to install lights for them to be effective. Keep the following factors in mind when you install one of these systems at your home.

Avoid Creating Blind Spots

When you have one very bright light shining on your property, the areas outside it can become blind spots. This lighting setup creates darker areas where intruders can hide. Instead of having one bright light, such as a flood light, set up multiple lights that aren’t as bright.

When you have several lights set up at certain angles, you will reduce or eliminate blind spots. Your outdoor security lighting system will illuminate all areas of your property, which creates a more difficult area for intruders to invade.

Remember the Back and Side Yards

It’s common to light up the front yard, especially around doors. However, your backyard is at an even bigger risk for intruders. It provides more cover, away from the street. It’s important to make sure you have a properly positioned outdoor security lighting system to deter intruders. Your lights should illuminate all sides of your property.

Choose the Right Height

How high should your outdoor security lighting be placed? Lights that are close to the ground won’t provide the lighting you need. Instead, you’ll have faint lighting and lots of blind spots. Lights that are too high need to be much brighter to provide lighting that reaches the ground.

Your outdoor lighting system needs to be at just the right height to provide plenty of illumination without creating blind spots. Your lights should point downward to shine on anyone in your yard. Keep in mind that placing your lights higher up helps protect them from tampering. An electrician understands the reasons behind an outdoor security lighting system and will work with you to help protect your home.

Avoid Obstacles

If you want to install a motion sensor lighting system , be aware of obstacles. Tree branches, for example, might blow in front of these sensors when it’s windy. This causes the sensors to go off when they don’t need to and may make you worry without reason. Remove obstacles or put motion sensor lighting in areas where tree branches and other potential obstacles won’t be a problem.

Avoid Glare

Glare from very bright lights can make it difficult for your outdoor security lighting system to work effectively. It causes the surrounding area to have more shadows and hiding places. Additionally, these bright lights can be obnoxious to look at. Since your neighbors get used to looking away from your bright lights, they may be less likely to notice someone sneaky into your yard.

A professional electrician will be able to help you avoid glare by ensuring your outdoor security lights have the right shielding. They can also help make sure that your lights are positioned properly and not pointed toward each other. Angling your security lights toward the ground can help cut down on glare.

Contact the Professionals

If you’re thinking of installing outdoor security lighting for your Phoenix home or your business, contact 24/7 Local Electrician . Our electricians can safely and properly install this type of lighting to help keep your home or office secure.

What are the benefits of pir motion sensor lights?

Sat, 10 Jun 2023 00:03:00 GMT

Home security is about protecting your family and your belongings. Motion sensor lights you can help protect your home, family, and much more. However, there are additional benefits to using them, too.

Deter Criminals

Using a light outside your home can help deter intruders. A burglar is much more likely to attempt to break into a dark home than they are to try the well-lit house. Consider putting motion sensor lights in these key places to deter unwelcome visitors:

Finding the ideal spots to install your lights may seem easy but save this job for the professionals . They can work with you to make sure the lights are hung at the right height and in the right location.

These lights are beneficial if you go on vacation and ask your neighbors to keep an eye on your house. If they see the lights come on at your home, they can take a look or call the police. Motion sensor lights are also helpful when you are home.

Convenience

Whether you live by yourself, are married, or have kids, these lights are convenient for when people come home at night. Imagine fumbling with your keys, while balancing the groceries…in the dark. Maybe you feel “creeped out” when you’re walking from your car to the front door. Motion sensor lights can help ensure you have enough light to see what’s around you.

Deter Animals

If you have issues with animals, from rabbits to javelinas, motion sensor lights can help keep them away from your home. Many desert animals are nocturnal and forage at night . If they see a light turn on, chances are they’ll move away from your house and find a darker place to explore.

Financial Savings

Motion sensor lights can also save you money on your electric bill. Do you usually leave your front light on while you’re out to dinner and then forget to turn it off when you get home and go to bed? Do you work a graveyard shift and leave the light on while you’re at work? Having your lights on all night can waste a lot of electricity. Motion sensor lights only come on when they are triggered, which means you could be saving money on energy bills.

Longer Lasting

Light bulbs suck up a lot of energy when they are on for hours. Motion sensor lights go on when they sense movement so they will typically only be on for a few minutes each day. This means that the lifespan of the motion sensor lights will most likely be higher than a regular bulb.

Use motion sensor lights in conjunction with other home security products such as infrared lighting, infrared cameras, and more. In fact, it’s in your best interest to use a combination of products to keep you, your family, and your home as uninviting to invaders as possible.

Learn More About Motion Sensor Lights

Motion sensor lights work quickly and easily. When they detect movement, it will trigger the lights to come on immediately. Other types pick up heat signatures from people and animals; these will turn on when they see those signatures around your home.

If you would like to learn more about PIR motion sensor lights or you’re ready for a professional to install them, contact 24/7 Local Electrician .

Install outdoor lighting before your next party

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 00:05:00 GMT

When you plan on hosting summer parties and gatherings at your Phoenix home, consider adding custom outdoor lighting. Using this type of lighting gives you a way to illuminate the features of your home’s exterior, yard, or other outdoor areas. Keep the following tips in mind before your next party.

Reasons to Choose Decorative Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting for summer parties can serve both practical and aesthetic purposes. Some of the reasons you might want to install it include the following:

Places to Install Decorative Outdoor Lighting

One of the decisions you’ll need to make is where to install your new lighting. You may simply want to replace outdated fixtures with something more functional or modern. You might decide to have lighting added to places that aren’t currently well-lit. There are several areas you should consider adding custom outdoor lighting.

Ceiling Fans Under Overhangs

As the Phoenix temperatures climb, ceiling fans offer a way to keep patios cooler during gatherings. Consider adding a ceiling fan with a light. In addition to keeping guests more comfortable, you’ll have the added function of an overhead light. Many outdoor ceiling fan models have adjustable settings so you can increase or decrease the fan speed and the light brightness. This customization allows your guests to be comfortable no matter the time of day.

Hanging Lights Under Overhangs

Pendant lights and other types of decorative hanging lights are ideal for overhangs. These lights provide the right amount of lighting for guests as they sit and eat, play card games, or chat on the patio during your party. Hanging a pendant light above your high front door is a unique design feature your friends will surely notice. You can choose from a wide range of hanging lights in different styles and designs to match your home.

Wall Sconces on Home Exteriors

Wall sconces offer a way to illuminate impressive features on your home’s exterior while adding some decorative flair. Sconces also provide lighting so that guests can see where they’re going when it’s dark. Wall sconces are available with many options to suit any home. From contemporary to southwestern style, there really is something for everyone.

Garage Sconce Lighting

Garage sconce lights offer custom lighting that helps illuminate the front of your property, including your driveway. This can make it easier for guests to get to and from their cars when it’s dark out. These lights also come in a variety of designs that can enhance the appearance of your garage .

Hire the Professionals

If you’re interested in sprucing up your home’s exterior by updating the look of your outdoor lighting, contact 24/7 Local Electrician . Our electricians can work with you to install decorative lighting that enhances your home’s exterior.

Selecting the right light fixtures for your home

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 15:18:00 GMT

When redecorating your home the lights you select can make a significant impact. Choosing the right light fixtures can make a room look more impressive. For example, hanging a unique pendant light or chandelier can spruce up a foyer or entryway. The right type of lighting can make a space more functional.

Types of Lighting

Understanding the types of lighting can help you select the right fixtures for your Phoenix home. Layering multiple kinds can create a more useful space.

Tips for Choosing Light Fixtures

Choosing light fixtures starts with selecting the right type of lighting. Consider the purpose and the effect you want to create.

Depending on the look you want to create you can choose subtle or decorative ambient light fixtures. For example, LED track lighting can keep a modern design looking sleek. On the other hand, a chandelier with fine details may fit well in a home with a classic design. Working with a professional can help you narrow down the type of lighting that you need . This can help limit your light fixture options.

What to Avoid When Selecting Light Fixtures

When you’re selecting light fixtures for your home there are a few things to consider.

After you’ve selected the right light fixtures for your home it’s important to make sure they’re installed correctly. Using a professional electrician can help decrease the risk of electrical problems during and after installation.

Are you in the process of redecorating your Phoenix home? Contact 24/7 Local Electrician for assistance with all of your lighting needs.

Top 6 reasons to install kitchen pendant lighting

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 15:19:00 GMT

Interior designers and homeowners use pendant lighting as a way to customize the look of a space. This style of light is primarily used in the kitchen due to the benefits they offer.

Unique Style

Pendant lights come in a variety of size, shape, and color options. Whether you have a sleek modern home or a traditional southwestern design, you’ll be able to find a pendant light to match your home’s design.

In addition to having a variety of options when choosing your kitchen pendant lighting, you can customize the amount of light you desire in the space. Unlike a traditional light, you can install a pendant as a single fixture , in pairs, or in any other grouping you desire. An electrician can help you determine the location and amount of light appropriate for your space.

Highlight Focal Points

Kitchen pendant lighting can highlight a focal point in your space. Imagine a beautiful granite kitchen island. Now picture that with the perfect complementary pendant lights shining down on it. When people walk into your kitchen their eyes will automatically go to the island.

Pendant lighting can be installed over your kitchen counter, island, or dining table. They can highlight a focal point in other rooms, such as a billiard table.

Bulb Options

If you’re trying to find ways to save electricity , you’re in luck! Choosing the right bulb for your space can be as important as picking the right pendant. The color and brightness of a bulb can really influence the feeling of the room. If using energy saving LED bulbs is important to you it’s essential you verify the type of bulb your pendant can support.

Cost Effective

Fancy chandeliers can cost thousands of dollars. In addition to their expense, you only have one to display. Pendant lighting can be much more cost effective and customizable . They can start as low as $20 per light. Based on the material used to make the light the price can go up dramatically.

Customized Light

If you want to add light to the overall space, hang pendants evenly over your work area. In general, the larger the kitchen, the bigger the pendant you will need. However, there is a place for small pendants. Using this size over a sink or desk can focus the task lighting . You can combine multiple small pendant lights to create a more dramatic look.

To customize your light more you can have an electrician add a dimmer switch to your kitchen pendant lighting. Turn the pendants on full-blast when you’re prepping food at your island for the best visibility of your food. Lowering the lights during a bedtime snack can help signify to young children that it’s time to start winding down for bed. Adjusting the intensity of the light to match activities can make a significant impact on the feeling in the room.

Easy Maintenance

Kitchen pendant lighting is typically made from material that’s easy to maintain. You can clean most pendants by simply using a duster. When they need a deeper clean most pendant covers can be wiped down with a damp, soft rag. Refer to the manual for specific cleaning instructions for your pendants. Whether you accidentally spray spaghetti sauce at the ceiling or there’s just regular dust accumulation, it’s a relief to have something simple to clean.

Pendant lighting comes in a variety of options. You can work with an electrician to choose what’s best for your space. They can suggest what height will look the best. Adding a few pendants to your kitchen can really change the look of your space without costing you a fortune in renovations. If you’re ready to install kitchen pendant lighting, contact 24/7 Local Electrician .

Direct lighting vs. indirect lighting

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 15:19:00 GMT

Lighting can be one of the most powerful features in your home. Businesses have long known how to use lighting to create ambiance and increase productivity. With knowledge of indirect and direct lighting , homeowners can effectively illuminate every room in their house.

There are a few categories of interior lighting. Depending on what you want to achieve, one or more of the types may benefit your space. Lights offer increased visibility and safety. They can help set the stage by giving each area of your home a different mood inspired by indirect or direct lighting. If you install the right lighting it can change the whole look of your home.

Comparing Indirect and Direct Lighting

Fixtures that create indirect lighting angle to allow light to bounce off the ceiling and walls to illuminate a room. The equal distribution of light creates a comfortable glow.

Since indirect lighting can help create a warm glow it is often used to create ambiance in a space. A dining area can benefit from indirect lighting to create a softer look and to stage a more relaxing mood. Indirect lighting can be evenly spread throughout an area.

Direct lighting is often used to illuminate a workspace. Kitchens, offices, and any other areas that serve task-specific purposes benefit from this bright source of light. Pendant lights are good examples of direct lighting; the fixture illuminates one specific area.

Highlight the Positive

When a room looks like a shoebox, accent lights can add depth. You can use floor lamps or tabletop lamps to add additional indirect lighting. If you have a small display of dishes or collectibles, a puck light can help draw attention to them. A local electrician can install canister, pendant, and puck lights to suit your needs.

Light UP a Room

Shadows make a room feel smaller. If you have cabinets or shelves that stop just below the ceiling consider adding hidden , indirect lights. Over-the-cabinet lighting can make your room feel impressive. LED linear lights work best for this staging. A professional can install these and any other lights.

Make a Statement

Bold can be confident, resilient, and beautiful. An oversized floor lamp can add light as well as become the focal point of a room. Ask your Phoenix electrician about installing dimmers to your statement lights . These will allow you to customize the lighting throughout the day to match the atmosphere you want to create.

Electrical Lighting Projects are Not DIY

Many homeowners enjoy taking on a do-it-yourself (DIY) project. Electrical systems can be complex and confusing. Without a full understanding of how your system works you risk danger to yourself and damage to your home. These mistakes can be much more costly than hiring an electrician .

Replacing an old light fixture may seem like a project you can handle. However, outdated systems or previous code violations can leave you open to problems. Sometimes a “simple” fixture upgrade can require new wiring or circuit upgrades.

Faulty grounding can be dangerous for your family and pets. If you install indirect or direct lighting and don’t get the wiring right, the best-case scenario is higher electric bills. Electrical shocks can be fatal.

24/7 Service

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician to learn more about ways lighting can enhance your home and increase your property value. Whether you’re looking to make a few upgrades or you’re building a new home, our LEEDS (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)-certified team can work with you to give your home a safer, smarter, and sustainable electrical system.

What you need to know about smoke detectors

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 16:28:00 GMT

House and property fires can quickly become very dangerous. So far in 2018, there have been 13 home fire fatalities in Arizona alone. Understanding the deadly nature of fires can help raise awareness about the danger they can present and the benefit of having enough functional smoke detectors throughout your home.

When the Fullers went to bed one night they smelled no smoke, but a fire was beginning to smolder in their attic. A few hours went by and the fire began to grow. The hard-wired fire alarms in each bedroom and hallway began screaming shrill warnings. The Fuller family rushed outside.

The cause of their fire was an electrical overload. Electrical malfunctions are the leading cause of attic fires in the United States. Fortunately, the family made it to safety in time and were able to call 911. The fire and smoke damage were limited to the attic.

Smoke Detectors Help Save Lives

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) determined three out of five deaths occurring in house fires happened in properties without working smoke detectors. Having functional detectors can help save lives.

The NFPA recommends installing smoke detectors in every bedroom, hallway, and on every level of your home. Manufacturers have even made smoke detectors specifically for attics. The location and placement of attic heat or smoke detectors are critical. Professional installation is recommended.

Significant Improvements in Smoke Detectors

Like anything, smoke detectors do require some maintenance and occasional replacement. Guidelines include :

Interconnecting all of your smoke detectors means that when one sounds an alarm, they all sound. Your local Phoenix-area electrician should manage this type of wiring.

Burned the Popcorn and Set Off the Alarm…Again!

You may be thinking, “I want to connect my smoke detectors, but when I burn something while cooking I’ll have the kitchen alarm and five other alarms to reset!” The good news is smoke alarm technology is getting smarter. Manufacturers are working to create smoke alarms that can distinguish between real fires and cooking smoke or other sources of false alarms.

Hard-Wired vs. Battery Smoke Detectors

Most smoke alarms use battery power. Although the device should signal when the battery is dead or dying regular battery replacement is necessary. Too many people forget to change the batteries leaving their family vulnerable to disaster. When functioning properly , a battery-powered smoke detector will only sound its alarm when smoke is detected in that room.

If you’re building a new home you can consider installing a hard-wired smoke alarm system. They come with a battery backup, in case the electrical connection fails. An interconnected system will alert all of the functioning detectors if a fire starts anywhere in your home.

You need to regularly test and replace both types of smoke detectors.

24/7 Local Electrician is Your Phoenix Electrician

At 24/7 Local Electrician , we know the importance of new technology in our industry. We value long-term relationships with our Phoenix-area neighbors and customers. We want to be around to serve your children and grandchildren, too.

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician if you have questions about replacing or installing new smoke detectors in your home or business.

Electrical safety at your property

Sat, 03 Jun 2023 23:24:00 GMT

Most people spend close to one-third of their lives at their job. As a property manager, you should ensure that people in your building stay safe from electrical hazards.

Have you noticed there are too many items plugged into your power strips? Do you have several power strips connected to reach a faraway spot? Taking steps to fix electrical issues lowers the risk of fires that could endanger people in your building. Keep the following electrical safety tips in mind for your building to help prevent hazards and injuries .

Use Power Strips and Extension Cords Safely

Power strips provide a way for multiple items to get power from one outlet. However, it’s possible to have too much connected. When this happens the power strip won’t be able to safely handle the amount of electricity needed for all of the items. This can trip your circuit breaker or even start a fire. Consider an alternative option for electrical safety, such as having an electrician install additional outlets.

You might need extension cords at times to plug in certain devices or equipment. While these cords can be useful, they can be a problem. You might be tempted to run them under rugs or carpeting, where they won’t be seen. However, this is a serious electrical hazard. Cords can become frayed, damaged, or worn from being walked on having chairs roll over them. This creates a fire risk.

Remove Tripping Hazards

Cords can make an unsightly mess in your building, but you have to be careful about where you put them. Avoid putting cords across walkways or other areas that people pass through on a regular basis. Instead, place these cords along walls where they will be out of the way and out of sight. If you prefer, you can add removable wall clips to keep the cord where you want it.

Avoid Circuit Overloads

Overloaded circuits can cause a major fire risk. Office equipment that uses a large amount of electricity, such as copy machines, should have their own high amp outlet and dedicated power supply. Never plug this equipment in a standard outlet since they only handle a small amount of electricity. If your office has a kitchen, this electrical safety rule applies to refrigerators and other major appliances. Contact an electrician if you want to install a high amp outlet.

Check for Electrical Safety Issues

Don’t wait for a problem to happen. Instead, check for electrical safety issues on a regular basis. Walk through your building and check each area for problems, such as extension cords hiding under rugs. If anyone in your building notifies you about other problems, such as a faulty outlet, you should have a professional electrician repair it right away .

What to Do About Electrical Safety Problems

You can handle simple issues on your own, such as moving a cord out of a walkway to prevent people from tripping. However, when you have a more complex problem to deal with, you’ll want help from a trustworthy electrician . These types of tasks require expert knowledge and training in electrical safety.

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician to have our commercial electricians review the electrical safety at your property.

Different types of electrical outlets

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 18:51:00 GMT

You probably don’t spend much time thinking about the electrical outlets in your home . It’s easy to overlook them when you plug in your cords and move on. However, when you need to install or replace an outlet you’ll find that there are a few different types from which to choose. Should you go with standard electrical outlets or an option that offers more safety or amperage? Consider the following when you need new electrical outlets in your Phoenix home.

Standard Electrical Outlets

You’re most likely familiar with standard outlets that are common in homes . These are 15-amp or 20-amp outlets that have a long slot, a short slot, and a half-circle grounding hole below the slots. Depending on your needs, you might want to consider a more specialized outlet.

GFCI Outlets

Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets are ideal f or lowering the risk of being shocked. When you plug a device or small appliance into one of these electrical outlets, you don’t have to worry about ground faults. The GFCI outlet shuts off power as soon as it detects an electrical current leakage from the circuit .

Electricians typically install GFCI outlets in areas where homeowners have a higher risk of shock. This usually means putting them in areas where water is close by, such as in the bathroom and near kitchen sinks. GFCI outlets can provide safety in outdoor areas as well.

Tamper Resistant Outlets

When you have kids, you know the importance of babyproofing. The first goal is often to make sure little fingers don’t put anything into electrical outlets. Outlet caps can help with this, but it’s easy for kids to pull them out.

Tamper resistant outlets can provide peace of mind. Young children may try to stick a narrow object into an outlet just to see what happens. If this went unnoticed in a standard outlet, it could start a fire. Tamper resistant outlets require pressure to be added to both slots at the same time for the outlet to function. Although this type of outlet is resistant to tampering it’s important to note that it doesn’t fully childproof your outlet. Anyone could insert a plug into the outlet using even force.

An electrician can install these outlets throughout your home in place of standard outlets . After an electrician installs your new outlets they provide a permanent safety feature to give you peace of mind.

Weather Resistant Outlets

Outdoor electrical outlets are at risk of being wet or damp, so your electrician will need to install weather-resistant outlets. These outlets are designed to resist corrosion and potentially dangerous damage from exposure to moisture. Keep in mind that they’ll need to have weather-resistant covers on them, too.

Weather resistant outlets are the right choice when you need outlets installed near pools or on your patio or deck. You can safely use these outlets for plugging in tools, lights, and decorations without having to worry about electrical injuries .

High Amp Outlets

When 15 or 20 amps isn’t enough to handle your electrical load, you’ll want to look into having an electrician install high amp outlets . These outlets can handle larger loads from major appliances or heavy-duty power tools. You can find these in 30-amp or 50-amp options. The amount of amperage you’ll need will depend on what you’ll be using it for. Working with an electrician ensures that you get the right high amp outlet for your needs.

If you need help with anything from installing a new outlet to changing the entire electrical system in your home or commercial property in Phoenix, contact 24/7 Local Electrician .

How to avoid electric shock in your home

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 18:55:00 GMT

Electricity is an incredible modern-day convenience. It helps power homes, keeps people comfortable, and powers appliances and electronics. However, there is a danger of shock when it comes to electricity which can result in injury or even death. If you’ve ever wondered how to avoid electric shock at home or at work, here are a few tips.

Never Use a Power Tool Through a Wall

If you plan on doing a DIY renovation in your home , one of the best ways to avoid electric shock is by NOT using a power tool through a wall. It may be tempting to use an electric saw or drill to speed the process up, but keep in mind there could be a live wire on the other side. This can cause an electric shock. Investigate what’s inside your walls before you make the first cut. If you aren’t sure how, call the professionals.

Know Your Limits

Most people know very little when it comes to how electricity works. When it comes to electricity, ignorance is not bliss. If you aren’t sure what you’re doing, leave it to the professionals. An electrician has the experience to know what’s possible with your home renovation .

Don’t Mess with Plugs

If you have a three-pronged plug but your outlet only has two holes, you may feel tempted to improvise. Stop! The third prong grounds the electrical current . It should never be removed under any circumstances or you could get a severe electric shock .

Install Tamper Resistant Outlets

As soon as babies begin to crawl, parents frantically start babyproofing their house. Nobody wants their child to put their fingers or any other objects in the outlet. One way to help prevent electric shock is by installing tamper resistant outlets . These require two objects, the two prongs of a plug, to be inserted into the outlet simultaneously for the electrical power to flow. Like any babyproofing option, these aren’t entirely “shock-proof.”

Wet Hands? Stay Away from Outlets

One of the most common reasons for electrical shock is people having wet or damp hands and then trying to plug or unplug an electronic device . This often happens in kitchens and bathrooms when people are in a hurry. However, failing to thoroughly dry your hands before reaching for your outlet could lead to danger.

Install GFCI Outlets in Your Home

GFCI outlets are a common safety measure to help avoid electric shock. The outlet can sense if a person’s body starts to receive electricity and cuts off the power immediately. They are usually installed near sources of water, such as the kitchen or bathroom.

Hire an Electrician

If you are having issues with your electricity or want to upgrade some of your outlets, hiring an electrician is in your best interest. Our professionals can complete a full inspection of your home’s electrical system. Improving safety measures can help reduce your chance of electric shock as well as reduce your risk of an electrical fire.

If you suspect a problem with electricity in your home or want to verify your electrical safety, contact 24/7 Local Electrician .

House wiring basics: DIY or hire?

Wed, 31 May 2023 18:46:00 GMT

Almost everyone admires do-it-yourselfers (DIYers). And, why not? The ability and willingness to change your car’s oil or even the air filters in your home are becoming obsolete.

Doing your own plumbing or electrical work can be tempting. You may be saving money now, but you may actually increase your expenses down the road. When it comes to house wiring basics, safety – not money – is important.

Selling Your House: House Wiring Basics

The 2017-2018 real estate market has been vibrant and fast-paced. Many homeowners joined the rush and listed their properties. Eager homebuyers brought money to the table and often compromised where they shouldn’t in order to avoid losing another house. Even when you feel pressure to purchase it’s never a good idea to ignore problems with plumbing, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), or house wiring.

Electrical updates require skill and training. It’s important to leave the job to an experienced electrician. Arizona law states you can do your own basic house wiring; however, it also states if you intend to sell your home a licensed contractor should be used. Although it may be legally acceptable to DIY some electrical projects, you risk compromising your insurance coverage. You may open vulnerability to lawsuits from injured neighbors or visitors.

Illegal DIYs

When selling or renting your home, you are required to fully disclose all repairs and renovations. What if you want to do electrical rewiring on your home and plan never to sell or rent your property? According to the Arizona Building Officials , you do need a permit for some DIY house wiring basics:

If you aren’t sure what that means, it’s time to reach out to your electrician . They’re familiar with what work requires a permit. They can even guide you to the best type of outlet, fixture, and switch upgrades to suit your family’s needs.

Experienced Phoenix Electricians

If you aren’t worried about your health and safety, consider the fact that you expose yourself to legal consequences if your DIY repairs put others at risk. That includes neighbors or guests at your property. Not only can you void warranties and jeopardize insurance coverage , but you can even risk lawsuits.

While it may be tempting to save a few bucks up front, electrical modification really is a job best left to those trained and licensed in it. At 24/7 Local Electrician , we believe it’s important to learn about and understand house wiring basics. It’s not magic, but it’s certainly fascinating. From transformers to flipping a switch, your home electrical system is a miracle of science.

Every year, technological advances influence how we operate and manage our homes. That’s why our team stays on top of the latest electrical trends and technology. Like you, we live in Phoenix and the surrounding communities. We care about our neighbors.

If you’re buying, selling, or building a home this year, let’s discuss your options and explore the possibilities. We’ll work with you to deliver what you want on time and within budget. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician today.

So, you’re ready to start baby proofing

Tue, 30 May 2023 21:30:00 GMT

The first time your baby rolls over is a major milestone. From there, it won’t be long until they’re crawling and getting into everything! By this point, you’re probably thinking about baby proofing. There’s no shortage of baby proofing supplies available at any big box store, but before you check out remember to consider the dangers of electricity .

Luckily, there are many ways to baby proof your home when it comes to electricity. These are just a few of the options you can consider.

Tamper-Resistant Receptacles

Since 2008, the National Electrical Code requires tamper-resistant receptacles in new or renovated homes . The receptacles have spring-loaded shutters that remain closed when nothing is plugged into the outlet. Both springs must have pressure on them at the same time or they won’t open. This can help prevent injuries if a child is trying to insert something , like a paperclip, into one of the openings. Injuries can occur if a child puts something in both openings simultaneously.

If your home was built before 2008, an electrician can install tamper-resistant receptacles.

Baby Proofing Outlet Plug Caps

If you want a cheap way to baby proof your electrical outlets , baby proofing outlet plug caps are an option. They are made of hard plastic and plug into the vertical slots of your outlets. The front part of the cap is flat, making it difficult for your baby to grasp and pull.

Although this is an inexpensive option, there are downfalls. Over time, outlet plug caps can become worn out and fit more loosely in the outlet. This makes them easier for children to remove. Forgetting to replace the cap after you use the outlet can create an opportunity for danger as well. Children are great mimickers and watch everything you do. It doesn’t take long for a young child to watch you pull out an outlet plug cap and repeat the action .

Electrical Outlet Cover Safe Plates

Electrical outlet cover safe plates sit over your existing outlets. Safe plates are spring loaded. To use the outlet, simply take the prongs of the plug and slide them across the plate to open the cover and plug in your cord. Swapping out your outlet cover is an easy DIY fix.

This option provides a more sturdy and permanent solution than outlet plug caps. Over time, the cover will continue to hold up no matter how many times you use the outlet. Additionally, the spring will continue to automatically close whenever you unplug something, so you don’t need to worry about remembering to replace the outlet plug cap .

Similarly to the outlet plug cap, children can watch and repeat how you use a safe plate. While it does take some coordination to slide and plug, a determined child will be able to figure it out eventually.

How to Stop Your Baby from Unplugging Cords

Dangling cords can be a big temptation to a baby learning to crawl. The danger is endless – they could get tangled in the cord, chew on it, or even unplug it and risk a shock. Hiding cords and wires is an essential part of baby proofing your home. While you could move furniture in front of your electrical outlets to hide the plugs, there is another option.

Outlet covers are box-like structures that sit over your existing outlets. The enclosure has small openings on the side for your cords to run through. In addition to preventing your children from unplugging your devices, it may remove some of the temptation to stick something in an exposed outlet.

Power Strip Protection

Power strips are a common issue when it comes to baby proofing your home . Anything within arm’s reach is fair game to your new crawler. The danger of an exposed outlet is amplified when it’s placed on the floor in the form of a power strip. Imagine it from a baby’s perspective – more holes, more cords, a button, and even a light. A power strip cover sits over the cords and has cutouts for them to run out. This can help prevent little hands from unplugging tempting cords.

While there are many other baby proofing options on the market, these are some of the more affordable and accessible choices. While all of these can help reduce the risk of electrical danger , the only way to fully protect your child is with close supervision.

If you’re ready to install new tamper-resistant receptacle outlets or need any other help with your electrical system, contact 24/7 Local Electrician today.

Top 5 considerations before buying LED strip lights

Mon, 29 May 2023 21:37:00 GMT

LED strip lights offer some important benefits for residential and commercial property owners . This type of lighting provides improved energy efficiency compared to incandescent lights, leading to significant savings on electric bills. LED strip lights are available in different colors and color temperatures. This allows Phoenix homeowners and business owners to create the ideal lighting effect.

If you plan on adding this type of lighting to your home or business , you’ll need to consider certain factors first. Keep the following in mind as you go over your options for LED strip lights.

LED Strip Lights: Locations and Usages

Before getting started, think about where you’ll be putting these lights. You can use them as accent lighting, mood lighting , and task lighting. Some homeowners add them under kitchen cabinets. Business owners can use them in storefronts, lobbies, and to illuminate signs. The location and purpose of your LED strip lights will help your electrician determine the right brightness and size for your space.

Brightness

One of the factors to consider for LED strip lights is the brightness you desire. The measure of brightness is known as lumens. You’ll need to determine how many lumens per foot you’re going to want for your LED lighting. This depends on what you’re using it for and where you’re installing it. An electrician can help determine the appropriate lumens for your space.

Color Temperature

The color temperature of your LED strip lights refers to how warm or cool the lighting appears. These temperatures, measured in degrees Kelvin (K), typically range from 2,700 K to 6,000 K. Lower temperatures produce a warm, yellowish glow. Higher temperatures appear more white.

The purpose of your LED strip lights helps determine the desired color temperature. For example, you might be better off with warm white lighting in bedrooms , living rooms, or even a hotel lobby. A slightly higher temperature, cool white, provides adequate lighting for the details you need to see in your kitchen or bathroom. An electrician can help you choose the appropriate Kelvin range for other areas, including garages, office buildings, and more.

LED Strip Size

It’s important to determine the appropriate LED strip size for your home or business. This helps to calculate the overall cost of the lighting. An electrician can help you determine the size you’ll need based on where you’re having it installed.

Quality of LED Strip Lights

LED strip lights vary widely in terms of quality. Choosing lower quality lights could affect the aesthetic of your home or business. Sometimes, cheaper upfront costs lead to more frequent repairs or replacement. Working with an electrician can help ensure that you select LED strip lights that provide the highest quality for your space.

If you’re considering LED strip lights for your Phoenix home or business, contact 24/7 Local Electrician . We can handle all of your lighting needs.

What You Should Know About a Commercial Electrical Inspection

Mon, 29 May 2023 15:45:00 GMT

Electrical inspections are an essential part of ensuring that your commercial building stays safe. You should have an electrical inspection done on a regular basis to ensure your team stays working as well as lowering the risk of fires and other electrical hazards. Learn more about what you need to know about these inspections for your commercial building in the Phoenix area.

Reasons to Have a Regular Electrical Inspection

All commercial buildings should schedule an annual electrical inspection. Doing so helps ensure that the wiring and other parts of your building’s electrical system are in good working condition. These inspections help identify potential problems that could increase the risk of electrical shocks or fires. Regular inspections can ensure that equipment, lighting, and other electrical items are working correctly.

Regular electrical system checks can alert you of any necessary wiring replacements or repairs. Over time, wires, connectors, conduits, and other components can show signs of wear and tear. This can lead to a wide range of problems, such as outlets that won’t work or lights that flicker . In addition to being an inconvenience, these issues can raise the risk of fire. What would it cost if you had to send your team home because you didn’t have lights or couldn’t plug in anything?

During the Electrical Inspection

What can you expect during your commercial electrical inspection ? A qualified, licensed electrician will check various components of your electrical system. They will look for any possible issues that you need to address to prevent electrical hazards. These inspections include checking the quality of any previous electrical work.

An electrical inspection typically includes checking electrical panels to ensure that they comply with current codes. Since these codes change from time to time, you might learn that your panels require an upgrade. Following through on your inspector’s recommendation can lower your risk of fines for panels that don’t meet current compliance codes.

During your inspection, other aspects of your electrical system may be reviewed, including:

Questions to Ask

You should think about the kinds of questions you want to ask before and after your electrical inspection . Some of the questions you might want to ask include:

After your inspection, take the time to go over any reports you receive. Make it a priority to address any issues. If your building needs upgrades for compliance codes, make sure you have them done promptly.

If you’re due for an electrical inspection in your commercial building, contact 24/7 Local Electrician .

What does an electrical technician do?

Sun, 28 May 2023 15:52:00 GMT

Have you ever wondered who runs the electrical from the source to the disconnect switch to the machine? The answer: an industrial electrical technician . Without them, the power wouldn’t get from the source to power the machine. Is this a career that might interest you? Find out more about what an electrical technician does and how they get there.

Duties and Responsibilities

An electrical technician is responsible for installing and working on motor controls, heavy circuitry, and piping. Although they generally don’t work on the actual components of the machines, they’re responsible for anything between the power source and the machine.

Electrical technicians work with other trades like plumbers and HVAC to complete projects. They work with electrical engineers with their responsibilities so that a project can be built properly. The more experience an electrical technician can gain, the more room for career growth is possible.

Education and Training

If you’re interested in becoming an electrical technician, keep in mind that you will need to meet specific educational requirements. The best electrical technicians have an associate degree in the electrical technology field. Some technicians go to a vocational school for this degree, while others attend a community college or technical school. We offer ongoing training and truly enjoy helping each other grow and learn.

When you have the right preparation to become an electrical technician , other career paths may open up for you. With some additional training and education, you could become an electrician, an electrical engineer, or work in the facilities management field too.

Electrical Technician Skills

Working as an electrical technician means that you need to have and develop certain core skills . A few of these include the following:

Typical Jobs for an Electrical Technician

Some electrical technicians end up working with owners and electrical engineers to provide service to a wide range of clients. These technicians visit different sites, depending on which clients they are helping. This type of job gives electrical technicians an opportunity to put different skills to use by working on a variety of projects.

Other electrical technicians work for one company or organization, such as a factory or a laboratory. These technicians are only responsible for working on their employer’s electricity. This type of job can offer more stability on a day-to-day basis for those who don’t want to travel.

Start Your Career

If you’re ready to start your career with a company that serves their customers better than the competition, visit our careers page to learn more about our current openings. The electricians at 24/7 Local Electrician go out of their way to make sure the final product is the quality our customers deserve.

Whether you’re in need of electrical assistance or you’re looking to start your career as an electrical technician, contact 24/7 Local Electrician today.

Finding the right residential electrician

Sat, 27 May 2023 17:04:00 GMT

When something goes wrong in your home, you want to work with an expert for a safe and effective solution. Finding the right tradesman for the job can be difficult if you don’t know what to ask. In the case of a residential electrician , you want someone who’s highly qualified, offers great customer service, and has a wide depth of talents.

Licensed, Bonded, and Insured

One of the most important factors in finding a residential electrician is to make sure they have the right credentials to do the work. In Arizona, you can ask for their Registrar of Contractors (ROC) number. Entering this information into the ROC website gives you access to their license and bond information as well as any complaints filed with the ROC.

Experience and Qualifications

Choosing a residential electrician with a variety of skills and qualifications is essential. Many people save up a list of small jobs that an electrician can tackle in one visit. It would be incredibly frustrating if they showed up and weren’t equipped to complete half the items on your list.

24/7 Local Electrician is a one-stop shop for your electrical service in the Phoenix area. Our technicians have over 145 years of combined experience in the electrical field and no job is too small or too big. This allows them to efficiently troubleshoot any issue you throw their way. Before you choose your electrician make sure they offer the quality of service you expect for your project.

Referrals

One of the best ways to find a residential electrician is to ask around. Talk to your friends, family, neighbors, or coworkers and ask who they’ve used for electrical work. Sometimes the warnings are as useful as the glowing recommendations. Be sure to ask your referral the following questions:

Communication is Important

It may not seem like a big deal at first thought; however, effective communication is extremely important when dealing with a residential electrician. From conveying your electrical issues to reviewing an estimate or invoice, your electrician needs to be able to communicate with you in a way that’s clear and easy to understand. You want to make sure that your residential electrician listens to what you want and need.

Attitude and Professionalism

When a 24/7 Local Electrician shows up at your home, you can expect to see someone in uniform getting out of a company truck. The friendly technicians strive to put a smile on your face during each interaction. When you have an electrical problem, you want someone who will show up on time with the right tools and the right attitude to get the job done well.

Clear, Detailed Documents

Depending on the project, you may have an estimate, bid, quote, or contract. Be sure to review this information and make sure it answers all of your questions about the:

Before you sign a contract or agree to move forward with the work, make sure you understand everything in your documents. If something isn’t clear, ask questions and have your electrician update the paperwork.

If you want a residential electrician who’s highly qualified, offers excellent service, and has extensive experience, contact 24/7 Local Electrician to schedule an appointment today.

Electrical troubleshooting and maintenance

Thu, 25 May 2023 19:46:00 GMT

Electrical troubleshooting and maintenance are necessary to keep your home or business up and running. Something as routine as replacing a light fixture can be hazardous if done incorrectly. It’s important to understand what elements you’re responsible for and what an electrical contractor should handle.

Signs of Problems in Electrical Troubleshooting

Most people turn on the light switch every morning, expecting it to work. Electricity is one of those things that’s easy to take for granted.

Imagine you notice a lamp flickering in an office during your morning inspection. At first, it might just seem like a minor annoyance. You may try unplugging the lamp and plugging it into a different outlet. Or, maybe you replace the bulb. After a few more attempts at DIY fixes and a few hours later, you might start to realize that the flickering light is a sign of a bigger problem lurking behind the wall. If electrical troubleshooting is leaving you unsure of what to do next, it’s time to call an electrician .

Recognizing the signs of potential issues in your electrical system can help avoid unexpected outages or even fires. The following are a few of the common problems you may notice around your property.

Buzzing

If you hear buzzing coming from your fixtures, outlets, or walls, that’s a sign that something is wrong. Some causes might be frayed wiring or lose prongs. It’s best to leave the electrical troubleshooting to a professional to identify the source and fully resolve the problem .

Dimming and Flickering Lights

Lights draw electricity to run. If they’re dimming and flickering like a 1970s disco, they’re probably not getting a stable amount of energy. Sometimes high-energy users like AC units, laundry machines, and even vacuums can cause lights to dim or flicker. Although a brief dim may be normal, it’s best to talk to an electrician to see if there’s a bigger issue brewing within your wires.

Hot Outlets

If your wall outlet feels hot, it may be wired incorrectly. The first step to electrical troubleshooting is to carefully unplug anything from the outlet. Next, contact an electrician to explain the situation and see if it’s an issue with the item you had plugged in or with the wiring.

Sparking

If you notice sparks coming from your wall socket, contact an electrician immediately. This is definitely a cause for concern and should be looked at with urgency.

Tripped Breakers and Blown Fuses

Tripped breakers and blown fuses are annoying. However, they’re designed to protect your electrical system from overloading. If one particular item, such as a crockpot, is always resetting the outlet it could be an issue with the appliance. If using one particular outlet always trips the breaker, it could be an issue with the wiring. An electrician will be able to determine how to fix the overloaded circuit.

Find a Reliable Electrical Troubleshooting Partner

Each year hundreds of homes and commercial buildings experience fires due to electrical malfunction or failure. Watching for signs electrical problems, regular maintenance, and having a reliable electrician are the keys to keeping everyone safe.

For help with electrical troubleshooting and maintenance, contact the professionals at 24/7 Local Electrician today.

Leave electrical wiring to the pros

Wed, 24 May 2023 19:53:00 GMT

When you have an electrical wiring issue, handling it yourself might seem like a cost-effective and time-saving option. However, what initially seems like an “easy” task can quickly turn into a dangerous and expensive mess. Electrical work should be left to the highly qualified professionals .

Imagine spending a few weekends to rewire part of your home. You can probably find videos online to walk you through the process. After a trip or two to the home improvement store, you’ll have everything you need to start your project. Are you confident in your skills when it comes to the safety of your family? Electrical mistakes can lead to shocks or even fire.

Even if you end up completing the wiring work, imagine your frustration when you go to sell your home and find out it isn’t up to code. Electricity is a complex system best left to a professional for repairs and replacement .

Safety Concerns with DIY Electrical Wiring

Although some electrical work may seem like a simple project that you can do on your own with little risk, even replacing a light fixture can be hazardous. To properly complete the work, you need the right knowledge, skills, and tools. Otherwise, you run the risk of introducing a fire hazard into your home.

Other safety concerns include the risk of electrical shock. This can happen while you’re working if you aren’t sure which wires are live. Electrical shocks can occur after the work is complete, too. Tackling this type of project puts yourself, your family, and your home at serious risk. Avoid DIY wiring projects and enjoy the peace of mind you’ll have knowing a trained professional is the only person touching your electrical system.

Electrical Codes

Did you know that you have to properly identify terminals when installing electrical wiring? Did you know neutral conductors can only be used for one branch circuit? These are just a couple of examples of electrical codes that you have to follow when you install new wiring.

The National Electrical Code has many specifics for compliant electrical installations . Instead of keeping track of all of these yourself let a professional handle it for you.

Circuit Overloads

When you aren’t familiar with electrical loads, handling wiring work can result in circuit overloads. Having too much voltage going through one circuit can cause the breaker to trip repeatedly. This can lead to an increased fire risk.

Professional electricians have the skills and knowledge to ensure no circuits are overloaded. Hiring someone from the start allows you to avoid having to hire an electrician later to correct your DIY work.

Problems Selling Your Home

You could run into delays when you’re ready to sell your home if you did your own electrical wiring. Home inspectors might find that your home isn’t up to code. In this case, the sale probably can’t finalize until a licensed electrician re-does the work. This can make it much harder for you to find willing buyers and sell at the price you want.

Improper Installation

When you improperly install your electrical wiring, you can run into problems that range from minor to severe. For example, lights might not come on when you turn the switch or outlets might not work. Even though a DIY fix may seem like a great way to save money, it can end up causing a lot of headaches if you don’t know what you’re doing. Plus, if you do the job wrong, you’ll need to hire an electrician anyway.

Don’t risk electrical wiring hazards and other problems with a DIY fix. Contact the professionals at 24/7 Local Electrician in Phoenix and let us take care of your wiring work and any other electrical needs.

What is a journeyman electrician

Tue, 23 May 2023 19:57:00 GMT

No one starts out working as a master electrician. It takes training and experience to get there. Along the way, you’ll become a journeyman electrician. This job helps you learn the ropes of doing electrical work. It offers plenty of opportunities to improve your skills as you make electrical repairs, replace lights , and perform other electrical work.

Responsibilities of a Journeyman Electrician

A journeyman electrician has the right training, experience, and skills needed to work independently. These electricians can perform a wide range of electrical work for residential, commercial, or industrial customers. Some examples of jobs they do include replacing wiring, repairing outlets, and installing light fixtures.

Journeyman electricians can conduct inspections to check wiring systems for problems that need to be addressed. Some serve as mentors for electrician apprentices. This allows them to share their knowledge and help apprentices develop the skills they’ll need for electrical work .

The exact responsibilities that journeyman electricians have depend on the company for which they work. For example, some may operate as an outside lineman. This involves installing, maintaining, and repairing transformers and other outdoor electrical equipment. Others typically work indoors and are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing, the electrical systems and equipment found inside buildings.

Training and Education

The path to becoming a journeyman electrician can involve formal education, on-the-job experience, or both.

Some electricians have a two-year degree in the field. Technical colleges offer courses that can help journeyman electricians learn and practice the skills required for doing this type of work. Some examples of these include learning and understanding electrical codes, studying wiring, and learning how to interpret blueprints.

Licensing

Exact licensing requirements for a journeyman electrician vary from state to state. In general, you’re expected to have 8,000 hours of supervised experience. You have to pass a licensing exam as well. In Arizona, the license doesn’t have any formal education requirement.

The next step after receiving a journeyman electrician license is to gain experience and time. Then you can apply for a master electrician license. This involves passing another licensing exam. Licenses typically need to be renewed every couple of years.

Journeyman Electricians vs. Master Electricians

So, what exactly is the difference between a journeyman electrician and a master electrician? Master electricians have more training and experience which allows them to complete more complex tasks. For example, master electricians are sometimes responsible for designing electrical systems for buildings. Journeyman electricians can help install or repair these systems, but they don’t design them.

If you, or someone you know, is interested in advancing your career as an electrician, contact 24/7 Local Electrician today.

What are the different types of electricians?

Mon, 22 May 2023 20:04:00 GMT

If you own a home or run a business you need to know about the different types of electricians. Depending on the electrician , there are different education, training, and hands-on experience requirements which allow them to offer different services. This knowledge gives you a better idea of who you need to call.

Residential Electricians

Residential electricians are the people you call when you need to hire someone to work on the electricity in your home. They can be utilized by apartment or condo management companies to perform more complex electrical work. They can work on indoor and outdoor electrical issues, including :

Residential electricians have a combination of formal classroom education as well as hands-on apprenticeship training. This typically takes about four years while working under the supervision of another electrician. At the end of their training, they need to pass state testing to begin working on their own.

Commercial Electricians

Commercial electricians can work on construction sites or projects within a commercial building. They can work on indoor and outdoor electrical issues, including:

Before an electrician can work independently in a commercial setting, they have to train under a master electrician . Once they do this and pass their state testing, they can apply to work as a commercial electrician.

Industrial Electricians

An industrial electrician is a person who runs electrical from the source to the disconnect switch to the machine. Without them, power wouldn’t get from the source to power the machines in industrial buildings. They can work on indoor and outdoor electrical issues, including:

Although an industrial electrician doesn’t usually work on the components of the machines, they’re responsible for anything between the power source and the machines. They may work with people in other trades like plumbers, HVAC technicians, and electrical engineers to get the job done completely. An associate degree in the electrical technology field is necessary before starting a career as an industrial electrician .

Call the Professionals

No matter what type of electrician you need, you want to make sure you’re hiring someone you can rely on.

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician to schedule an appointment with an electrician today.

Get to know your home’s electrical panel

Sun, 21 May 2023 20:09:00 GMT

Electrical panels, or breaker boxes, are responsible for housing your electrical system’s circuit breakers. The circuit breakers are switches that control your home’s power supply. They protect your wiring from surges or shorts. This helps prevent electrical fires.

If there’s an emergency, such as a flood or major leak, you should know where your panel is and how to turn off the power. It’s helpful to be familiar with your electrical panel for minor issues as well, such as a tripped circuit breaker.

Electrical Panel Location

For safety reasons, electrical panels are usually found in areas that are out of the way. In some homes, these panels are in the basement, utility room, closet, or garage. In other homes, these panels are in kitchen pantries or in hallways that lead to an exterior door. Other homes have electrical panels outside on an exterior wall.

Your electrical panel will have a door on it. Inside you’ll see a series of circuits and other components. Being able to identify the various parts helps you know what you’re talking about if you need to call an electrician.

Electrical Panel Components

Breaker boxes have several different components. These include the following:

Your panel might have labels to let you know which circuit breaker switches are for different areas of your home. If there aren’t any labels, you can go through and check to see which switches control what. Start by turning on all of your lights and lamps. Next, turn off one breaker at a time and notice which light or outlet is no longer receiving power . Make a note of what each breaker controls.

Problems with Your Electrical Panel

One of the more common problems with electrical panels is a tripped circuit breaker. If you suddenly lose power to one part of your home, it’s usually for this reason. Using too much electricity on a circuit causes the breaker to trip. This helps prevent overloads and even fires.

You can check for a tripped breaker by opening the panel door and looking for a switch that’s in the off position. Flipping the switch should reset the circuit breaker and restore power to that circuit. If this continues to happen, you may have a bigger electrical issue and should call an electrician right away.

If you have an older home, your service panel might have fuses instead of circuit breakers. When you blow a fuse, you’ll need to have it replaced with a new one. This involves removing the blown fuse and putting a brand new one in its place. If you’re unsure of how to do this, contact an electrician.

If you’re experiencing any other problems with your electrical panel, you should have a professional look at it. Having an electrician inspect your panel and make any needed repairs is safer and prevents the risk of electrical shocks.

Electrical Panel Hazards

Electricity is flowing through your electrical panel all the time. Opening the panel door and touching the panel to flip a tripped circuit is usually safe to do. However, you should never touch any other part of your panel, especially if the protective cover is off of it. This could put you at risk of receiving a serious or even fatal shock.

If you’re not sure how to safely handle your electrical panel, don’t attempt to do so on your own. Have an electrician come to your home to take care of it for you. Your electrician can show you how to do basic tasks, such as flipping a tripped circuit or replacing a blown fuse.

When you have questions about electricity or need electrical repairs in your Phoenix home, leave it to the professionals. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician today.

5 Surprising Facts About Electricians

Sat, 20 May 2023 20:15:00 GMT

Electricians have one of the most important jobs in the world! Without them, our lives would be pretty dim – literally. If you’ve never hired one, you may be wondering about what types of services they offer or what it takes to become an electrician. Here are a few surprising facts:

1. Electricians use all kinds of tools.

When you think of an electrician, it may be hard to picture exactly what tools they use. You see them with a tool belt and a screwdriver or two, but electricians have experience using all sorts of tools. From benders to cutters and excavators to testers, depending on what the job requires, an electrician will likely use a combination of tools.

Electricians come with a truck fully stocked with tools, in case an unexpected issue pops up during a job. The trouble with electrical work is: there can be a lot of surprises lurking behind your walls.

2. They offer a variety of services.

Different types of electricians offer a variety of services . Here are four main types and a very brief, general overview of what they do on an average day:

3. It takes about seven years for someone to become a master electrician.

Next time you think about starting a DIY electrical project after watching a how-to video online, remember how long electricians study their trade to keep your family and your home safe. During the seven years, they go to school, have an apprenticeship, and gain hands-on experience as a journeyman electrician. Do you still think your 90-second video tutorial qualifies you to do electrical work ?

4. Electricians may need special assistance if they’re color blind.

Since many wires are marked with colors that signify different things, it’s essential that an electrician can differentiate colors. If not, they’ll need someone on site who they trust to identify colors .

5. Electricians specialize in safety.

This is one of those careers where attention to detail and safety can be the difference between a life and death situation. Beyond knowing how to install equipment, troubleshoot issues, and fix electrical problems, they train on safety requirements, regulations, and procedures. This keeps the electrician, your family, and your home safe .

If you need assistance with an electrical problem, contact 24/7 Local Electrician to schedule an appointment today.

Electrician salary: depends on experience

Sat, 20 May 2023 17:58:00 GMT

Working as an electrician provides a rewarding and challenging career path. How much can you expect to make in this field per year? The electrician salary you might end up making depends on your experience, including the type of work you do. Knowing more about the average wages for different types of electricians can help you decide on your career path.

Building a Career

Electricians generally start as apprentices and work their way up to higher career levels. This typically involves becoming a journeyman and then a master electrician. The more experience an electrician has, the more types of jobs they can take. An electrician’s salary tends to increase considerably at higher levels and with more experience.

Apprentice Electrician Salary

Apprentices, sometimes referred to as an Electrician I, are the lowest career level for electricians. They perform basic tasks on the job, such as delivering materials , while learning more about how to do installations, repairs, and other electrical work. Apprentice electricians work under the supervision of a journeyman electrician or a master electrician.

According to PayScale , the average apprentice electrician wage is $13.84 per hour in Arizona. This salary can vary depending on education, training, and experience.

They are expected to have one to three years of related experience or an associate’s degree. Once they complete an apprenticeship, they can move on to becoming a journeyman electrician.

Journeyman Electrician Salary

Journeyman electricians , or Electrician II, perform electrical work without direct supervision. This includes making electrical repairs, replacing electrical equipment, and installing wiring. Journeyman electricians are unable to pull permits to do electrical work. Instead, they use plans provided by a master electrician for new installations.

The average wage for a journeyman electrician in Arizona is $22.11, according to PayScale. Again, this salary can vary depending on education, training, and experience.

Journeyman electricians are expected to have two years of journeyman level experience and an associates degree or three to five years of related experience.

Master Electrician Salary

Master electricians , or Electrician III, are the highest career level for electricians. These electricians can do a wide range of electrical work, such as planning wiring systems and overseeing new installations. They can pull permits, route circuits, and make decisions on the types of electrical equipment needed for jobs.

According to PayScale , the average salary for a master electrician in Arizona is $61,500 per year.

Master electricians perform more complex duties than apprentices and journeyman electricians . They typically have at least five to seven years of experience in this line of work.

Service Electrician

Many electrical contractors also provide service work to consumers and businesses. This would include entering a customer’s home or place of business and servicing the existing electrical equipment or installing new equipment.

Part of being a successful service electrician is being able to sell new work to the customers while on the job site. Successfully selling services or new work can mean additional income in the form of a sales commission. A service electrician with a successful sales record and who has the experience of a master electrician can make close to six figures or more per year.

If you’re interested in becoming part of a team of professionals in the Phoenix area, contact 24/7 Local Electrician .

Reasons to install a dedicated spa circuit

Fri, 19 May 2023 03:52:00 GMT

Backyard spas provide Phoenix homeowners with a place to unwind while having fun. Since these spas require electricity for heat, lighting, and other features you should consider having a dedicated spa circuit installed. Learn more about this type of circuit, including why it serves as an important safety feature .

Purpose of a Dedicated Spa Circuit

Having a dedicated spa circuit means your backyard spa will have its own circuit drawing electricity. This helps distribute electricity safely while you use your spa. If you have too much electricity on one circuit it can trip the breaker. A dedicated spa circuit can lower the risk of an electrical overload and a potential fire.

Your home most likely has other dedicated circuits for major appliances, such as your stove, washer and dryer, refrigerator, and HVAC system. Adding another one for your spa is a job an electrician can handle.

Benefits of Having a Dedicated Spa Circuit

When you have a dedicated spa circuit installed it can reduce the risk of an electrical fire at your home. Breakers located on the outside of your home have a higher risk of wearing out due to the Phoenix area’s hot climate. If you don’t have a separate circuit for your spa, your breaker can wear out much sooner from overloads and hot outdoor temperatures. When your breaker isn’t working, too much electricity from your spa can keep flowing and increase the risk of a fire.

Having a dedicated circuit for your spa provides you with peace of mind. You and your family can safely use your spa without having to worry about having a fire break out.

Spa Circuit Installation

Installing a spa circuit involves meeting certain electrical requirements . These circuits must be the right size in order to properly work. Circuits that are too small won’t be able to handle the electricity load, resulting in a breaker that trips frequently.

Spa circuits and wiring have to be installed in a safe location away from other power sources. The electrical system for your spa must be properly grounded to reduce the risk of electrical hazards.

Spa circuits should have a GFCI feature to lower the risk of electrical shocks. This feature shuts off power to the circuit when there is a difference in the flow of electricity running through it.

Avoid the DIY Route

It’s important to have an electrician install your dedicated spa circuit. This ensures your circuit meets all electrical safety requirements. Professionals make sure that your circuit is the exact size needed for safe operation. They can determine the safest location for your spa based on various factors, such as where other power sources are on your property.

If you want to add a dedicated spa circuit to your Phoenix home, contact 24/7 Local Electrician . Our team can make sure it’s installed safely and correctly.

Home electrical projects: DIY vs professional jobs

Thu, 18 May 2023 04:05:00 GMT

Most homeowners agree: there’s always something to do around the house. As a homeowner, it can be tempting to search for a YouTube “how to” video to tackle your to-do list. Although this may save you a little money, doing some home electrical projects yourself can be a dangerous option.

3 Considerations for Home Electrical Projects

Before tackling home electrical projects it’s important to consider a few factors. Think about the following to help you decide whether you should do-it-yourself (DIY) or call a professional:

Possible DIY Projects

What kinds of home electrical projects can you do yourself? This depends on your knowledge and skills. Some possible DIY projects may include:

It’s important you have a full understanding of any electrical task before beginning. If these tasks aren’t done correctly, you could be at risk for electrical shock or fires . If you have any doubt about how to complete the task, leave it to the professionals.

Professional Electrical Projects

Even if you have a full understanding of an electrical project, hiring an electrician can be the better option. Letting a professional do the work provides you with peace of mind. You don’t have to worry that a new outlet wasn’t properly installed or a new light fixture wasn’t wired safely.

So, what types of home electrical projects are always better left to an electrician?

These types of electrical projects are more involved – and dangerous – than DIY jobs. A professional should handle these every time. If you aren’t sure whether or not you have a DIY project on your hands, it’s best to call the professionals.

Licensed and insured electricians handling major electrical projects can guarantee everything is safe and up to code. Keep in mind this type of work can require permits and involve following detailed electrical codes. Local electrical companies are aware of these regulations.

You can try to do electrical jobs on your own; however, if you’re not an expert you could be putting quality and safety at risk. It’s best to leave this work to the professionals. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician for any home electrical projects on your to-do list.

Floor lamps vs ceiling lights: how to get your lighting right

Wed, 17 May 2023 04:39:00 GMT

Getting the lighting right can change the feel of a room. This is especially important in rooms where you spend a lot of time. From floor lamps to recessed lighting and everything in between, the right combination of lighting can be the final touch your room needs.

With so many options for each type of lighting, figuring out how to create your desired ambiance can be difficult for a do-it-yourselfer. To get the most out of your illumination consult with a highly qualified electrician at 24/7 Local Electrician .

What are the lighting options?

The most important question you need to ask when planning a lighting installation is, “What happens in this space?” This question will help you determine what types of lights you need. There are three primary categories of lighting :

So, what determines the best lighting for a room? In most spaces, a combination of the different types of lights will be your best option. This allows you to easily transition your room depending on what you’re doing.

Your living room probably already has an overhead ambient light fixture. Imagine if that was your only source of light in the room. Wouldn’t you be more comfortable at the end of a long day if you could turn on a floor lamp and read a book, rather than have a bright light looming over you? A floor lamp, or task light, provides enough focused light for you to see what you’re reading, but it doesn’t light up the entire room.

Ceiling Lights as a Starting Point

Ceiling lights allow you to illuminate a room with the flick of a switch . They can be extremely beneficial, especially in rooms without much natural light. An electrician may be able to install a dimmer to give you more control over the brightness of the overhead light. Unfortunately, one overhead light often isn’t enough to get the lighting right in your room.

Floor Lamps to Enhance a Room

When choosing how to light up your space, it isn’t usually a decision between floor lamps or ceiling lighting . Instead, a combination of the two can help you get the lighting right.

Floor lamps provide lighting to a specific area, such as a couch or chair. Reading, puzzles, or even just a good conversation can be enhanced by floor lamps. They often give you options in terms of levels of illumination. You can set a romantic mood with dim lighting or enhance an activity, such as reading, with the brighter setting.

Floor lamps do have some restrictions, making them best when used in combination with another source of light. For example, most have a set height. This can be an issue if you have unusually high or low furniture. Additionally, it can be an inconvenience to fumble around to find the switch to turn on the lamp.

Turn to the Lighting Pros

Whether you’re building a new home, remodeling, or just aren’t happy with the amount of light you currently have, the technicians at 24/7 Local Electrician can help you enhance your space with lighting.

Choosing the right types of lighting can be tricky when you factor in all the lighting options available. If you’re ready to illuminate your home, contact 24/7 Local Electrician today. Our team members can recommend the best lighting options for you and install them professionally.

Does ceiling fan rotation really matter?

Tue, 16 May 2023 15:57:00 GMT

Arizona has the longest “hot season” in the United States. This can mean months of triple-digit energy bills. Many Phoenix homeowners look for ways to keep homes cooler, without constantly running their air conditioning on full blast. The direction of your ceiling fan rotation can help. Keep the following information in mind when you’re trying to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.

Impact of Ceiling Fan Rotation

Ceiling fan rotation can affect how comfortable a room feels all year long. Which direction should your ceiling fan blades be turning? This depends on what the temperature is like outside.

You should have a counterclockwise ceiling fan rotation in spring, summer, and fall when it’s hot. When the blades spin this way, they push air down into the room. This blows air across your skin, helping you feel cooler. It’s important to note, ceiling fans don’t change the temperature of the air, but the blowing air can feel cool.

When it’s cold outside, changing your ceiling fan rotation to clockwise can help you feel warmer. The blades spinning in this direction pull cool air up. This forces the hot air near the ceiling to move down toward you.

Although fans don’t change the temperature of the air, they can offer an energy-efficient way to keep rooms more comfortable without relying as heavily on your HVAC. This can save you money on your utility bills.

Benefits of Ceiling Fan Rotation Changes

Changing ceiling fan rotation to clockwise or counterclockwise as needed can help you save on energy usage. With your fans going, you can rely less on your heating and cooling system. When you use ceiling fan rotation to your advantage, you can keep the temperature a little warmer in the summer and a little cooler in the winter. This means your HVAC system won’t run as often, resulting in lower energy usage and costs. It can even save a little wear and tear on your HVAC unit!

How to Change Ceiling Fan Rotation

You can change your ceiling fan rotation with the flip of a switch. Your ceiling fan should have a small knob on it that allows you to set the rotation direction.

Most fans are automatically set to turn in a counterclockwise direction. This means you might not have to change it when it warms up outside if you haven’t adjusted it in the past.

Before moving the switch, make sure your ceiling fan is off. Wait for the blades to completely stop spinning. Then slide the switch over to change ceiling fan rotation . This helps prevent injuries that can occur if moving fan blades hit you.

If you’re thinking about installing a new ceiling fan or if you need help with your electrical system, contact 24/7 Local Electrician today.

Electrical Wiring 101

Mon, 15 May 2023 03:34:00 GMT

The wiring in your home is nothing to mess around with. Poor wiring can be a matter of life or death, and it can lead to serious injuries or death from electrical shocks or fires. Here are some things to know about working with the electrical wiring in your home.

Three Components of Basic Home Electrical Wiring

Your home’s electrical wiring has three basic components:

Dangers of Aluminum Electrical Wiring

Newer homes have wiring that is made from copper and feature ground wires for safety. Homes built during the 60’s and 70’s generally have aluminum wiring instead of copper wiring. This can be extremely dangerous. Because aluminum is soft, brittle and prone to oxidation, it is 55 times more likely to cause an electrical fire than copper wiring. If you know or suspect that your home has aluminum wiring, contact the professionals at 24/7 Local Electrician to inspect it for safety issues. Keep in mind, aluminum can be safe but it is best to have it maintained and inspected by a professional electrician.

Wiring to Switches and Receptacles

When connecting electrical wires to a switch or receptacle, connect the:

Electrical work is governed by a national codebook. However, some municipalities have stricter requirements due to weather or temperature extremes. One example is the use of pigtails when connecting more than one wire to a single terminal. While it’s good practice, it’s important to know the requirements of your specific municipality prior to completing any electrical work .

Know Your Municipality’s Electrical Code

All municipalities have codes and regulations regarding residential wiring. These rules are there to protect the public from the dangers of electricity. Some projects are suitable for homeowners with a basic knowledge of electrical wiring, including replacing an outlet or lighting fixture . But others, like running a new line or entirely replacing your home’s wiring, will require the work of a professional and licensed electrician according to most codes.

Turn Off the Power When Working With Wires

To be safe, it is always best to leave electrical work to the professionals. But if you absolutely need to replace an electrical outlet or lighting fixture , you must remember to turn off the electricity to the area where you are working. Otherwise, you are in danger of an electric shock or sparking that can cause a fire or worse.

Do not put your or your family’s safety at risk. Whether your home needs an entire electrical rewiring or you just have a few electrical jobs on your to-do list, contact the professionals at 24/7 Local Electrician .

LED lighting for your kitchen remodel

Sun, 14 May 2023 03:56:00 GMT

When remodeling your kitchen, it’s the ideal time to think about lighting. Your kitchen should have the right kind of lighting to allow you to do everyday tasks as efficiently as possible. LED lighting is a common choice for kitchen lights , thanks to its many benefits.

Brighter Lighting

Think about the kinds of tasks you do in your kitchen on a regular basis. Tasks such as cutting vegetables or cooking on the stove can be dangerous when you have a poorly lit kitchen. LED lights provide brighter lighting than incandescent bulbs and other traditional kitchen lights. Having a brightly lit kitchen makes food preparation tasks much safer for you and your family.

Brighter lighting is useful if you or your family members take care of other tasks in your kitchen as well. Your kids might do their homework at a built-in desk in the kitchen, or you might go through mail or pay bills at the kitchen table. Having LED lighting in these areas puts less strain on your eyes.

Cost Savings

LED lights use bulbs that last a lot longer than incandescent bulbs and other types of bulbs. This means you don’t have to worry about changing the bulbs often. You’ll be spending less money on LED bulbs overall, which helps save on the cost of lighting your kitchen.

With LED lighting in your kitchen, you’ll be using less energy than with traditional bulbs. This results in lower energy bills from month to month, which is another way to help you save money.

Enhanced Appearance and More Space

LED lighting fixtures are available in stylish designs that can improve your kitchen’s appearance. Instead of an outdated traditional fixture , for example, you can have a more contemporary LED fixture installed.

Some of these LED lighting fixtures, such as LED strips, can be placed in out-of-the-way places that don’t take up kitchen space. You can have these fixtures installed under your cabinets, for example. Having them installed in these areas means you’re not giving up any countertop space or overhead space.

LED Lighting Ideas

You can have LED lighting installed in several areas in your kitchen for brighter lighting. Some common places to have this type of lighting installed include the following:

When you’re ready to install LED lighting in your kitchen, contact 24/7 Local Electrician . We will work with you to incorporate the right kind of lighting in your kitchen.

Recessed lights: pros and cons

Sat, 13 May 2023 05:27:00 GMT

Recessed lights have been growing in demand with homeowners and business owners. These lights provide certain benefits that other types of lighting don’t. Before deciding whether or not to have these lights installed , it’s important for you to be familiar with their pros and cons. Keep the following in mind when determining if recessed lighting is the right choice for your home or business in the Phoenix area.

Pro: Lights Are “Hidden”

Recessed lights aren’t as noticeable as a hanging light fixture or other traditional ceiling fixtures. If you want to streamline the appearance of your office, reception area or living room ceiling without any bulky fixtures, recessed lighting is a good option. These lights are also ideal for areas with lower ceilings, such as basements. Since they’re out of the way, you don’t have to worry about bumping into them while walking around.

Pro: More Evenly Lit Rooms

Having recessed lighting installed means that you need to have several lights placed in different areas of the ceiling. This provides rooms with more even illumination, unlike a traditional overhead fixture that only illuminates the area near it. With more even lighting, you won’t end up with parts of the room that are dimmer. You can also rely on recessed lights to illuminate your entire kitchen for easier food preparation. Or light your whole living room so that you have enough light to read, no matter where you sit.

Pro: Recessed Lights Are Always in Style

Some types of lighting fixtures, such as track lighting or hanging fixtures, have styles and designs that change over time. Investing in these lights means that they’ll eventually look outdated. When you have recessed lighting, you don’t have to worry about it going out of style or needing to replace it for an updated look. While this might not matter as much in an out-of-the-way area, such as a basement, it can be a smart investment for kitchen or living room lighting.

Con: You Need a Lot of Recessed Lights for Good Lighting

One of the drawbacks of recessed lights is that each light only provides illumination in a limited area . To make sure that you have a room that is well lit, you need to have many of these lights installed in your ceiling. This involves more work in terms of the installation process and can affect the amount you spend overall, especially if you need them for a large room.

Con: Recessed Lighting Installation Is Complex

Some homeowners are able to install a traditional light fixture on their own. However, this isn’t a good idea with recessed lighting. This type of lighting needs to be carefully installed, which involves removing insulation in the area to reduce fire risks. You also need to make several holes in your ceiling for installation. Leaving this project to electrical professionals is the best way to ensure a proper and safe installation .

Con: Recessed Lights Can Leak Air

Since recessed lighting goes right into the ceiling, this can leave small gaps around each light. The gaps allow air to pass through, which can create drafts and affect the comfort of your home. Having professional electricians install recessed lights can help ensure that these gaps are properly sealed up.

Once you have made the decision to installed recessed lights in your Phoenix home or business, contact 24/7 Local Electrician.

Commercial LED lighting solutions for restaurants

Fri, 12 May 2023 05:33:00 GMT

When you run a restaurant, it’s important to make sure you have the right lighting. A casual, family-friendly restaurant typically needs to offer a cheerful, well-lit environment. An upscale dining establishment needs to create a more intimate mood for couples enjoying a night out. No matter what kind of atmosphere you need, commercial LED lighting can provide it.

Ambient Lighting

Ambient lighting refers to lights that create a certain mood or atmosphere in your restaurant. You can use commercial LED lighting that is softer to illuminate tables throughout your dining area. Having these lights over tables rather than all over the ceiling provides a more intimate effect for those who are dining. This is a good choice for restaurants that need to create a more romantic effect, such as high-end restaurants that couples frequent.

Commercial LED lighting can be spread out over larger areas overhead , such as when you need to create a more fun or lively atmosphere for your restaurant. This works well for restaurants that have a more casual setting, such as cafes, fast food restaurants, and family restaurants. This lighting provides plenty of illumination for customers and creates a comfortable atmosphere.

Accent Lighting

Does your restaurant have certain features that you would like to call attention to? Whether your high-end restaurant has artwork on the walls or your casual restaurant has eye-catching design features, commercial LED lighting can highlight these. You can place these LED lights in specific areas to draw the eye to these features.

Dimmable Lighting

Some types of commercial LED lighting have dimmable controls . These controls make it easier for you to manage how much light your restaurant has. For example, you can use these controls to make your restaurant brighter earlier in the day if you’re serving breakfast and coffee for customers. When dinnertime comes around, use these controls to soften the lighting in your restaurant. For the middle of the day, you can use a more moderate setting for the lunchtime crowd.

Lighting Fixtures

The types of LED lighting fixtures your restaurant has can enhance its appearance. Elegant pendant lighting with LED bulbs is a good option for upscale restaurants. Recessed LED lights that cover most of the ceiling over your dining area are a suitable option when you have a casual dining establishment.

Advantages of Commercial LED Lighting

Commercial LED lighting offers a few benefits for restaurant owners. This type of lighting can cost more upfront. However, these lights cut down on the amount of energy used for lighting restaurants overall. This leads to a decrease in energy bills , which can help you save money on running your business.

LED lights are known for lasting a lot longer compared to fluorescent or incandescent lights. Since they don’t need to be changed often, your business saves money on the cost of bulbs as well.

With LED lighting, you don’t have to worry about your bulbs flickering, either. This means you can count on having reliable, steady lighting for your customers. Steady lighting helps create a more pleasant dining environment.

If you’re ready to install commercial LED lighting in your business, please contact 24/7 Local Electrician to discuss your options or request an estimate.

4 considerations for your first EV charger

Wed, 10 May 2023 19:29:00 GMT

Purchasing an electric vehicle helps you save a lot of money on gas. Since these cars need to be charged in order to run, having a home charging station available is highly convenient . Some gas stations and businesses offer places to charge electric cars. However, having an EV charger at home means you can ensure that your car stays fully charged and ready to go at all times. Keep the following in mind when it comes to choosing your first EV charger.

Types of Electric Vehicle Chargers

There are different types of EV chargers to choose from depending on your specific needs. EV chargers all feature a universal connector for electric cars with the exception of Tesla cars. Tesla vehicles have a modified version of this universal connector.

EV chargers are available in different power and amperage levels as well. You should make sure that you choose an EV charger that provides the amount of amperage and power your car needs. Keep in mind that different electric vehicles have varying maximum charging capacities.

In general, you should be looking at getting an EV charger that offers a charge of at least 30 amps. You’ll find different levels of chargers to choose from, including level 1 and level 2, which are the more commonly used types . These use AC power to charge your car. Levels 3 and 4 offer faster charging via a DC port rather than using onboard charging.

Costs of EV Chargers

The amount you can expect to spend on an EV charger varies based on different factors. While average costs can range from $500 to $700, you could pay quite a bit more or less depending on the kind you end up getting. For example, some of these chargers offer Wi-Fi connectivity that allows you to operate them from a mobile device. Having this feature can drive up the cost of your EV charger.

Location for an EV Charger

Where should your EV charger go? Keep in mind that you’ll be running cables to connect the charger and your car. Make sure that the location for your charger is in a convenient spot where you can easily connect your car to it. For example, consider having your charger installed on the side of the garage that you normally park in if you have a two-car garage.

The location of your charger affects how much electrical work you’ll need to have overall. Electricians might only need to run a few or couple feet of conduit as opposed to running longer lengths of conduit.

EV Charger Portability

Portability is an important factor to consider since it can affect the amount of electrical work you need to have done. Your options are to have your charger permanently installed in one place or have electricians install specialized outlets for it. If you have an outlet or two installed, you can plug in your charger at either spot.

If you don’t have a garage and need to have your charger installed outdoors, pay attention to local codes. You might need to have your EV charger hard-wired instead of having an outlet installed for it. Having your charger permanently installed this way can result in a higher installation cost.

If you’re considering buying your first electric vehicle, contact 24/7 Local Electrician. We can help you learn more about your options for an EV charger for your Phoenix home.

5 reasons your hot tub circuit breaker keeps tripping

Tue, 09 May 2023 19:35:00 GMT

Having a hot tub at your Phoenix home should provide you with a great way to relax. When your hot tub circuit breaker keeps tripping, though, you might end up feeling more stressed overall. What are some reasons that this might be happening? Having a circuit breaker trip on a frequent basis can indicate a serious issue . These are some of the more common ones that might cause you to suddenly lose power to your hot tub.

Ground Fault Problem

Your hot tub should have a ground fault circuit interrupter, or GFCI, breaker. This breaker automatically cuts off power to your hot tub to prevent electrical shock . The GFCI circuit breaker kicks in when unusual changes in the amount of power flowing through the circuit occur. You might have trouble with the GFCI circuit breaker tripping often for a few reasons. These include:

Moisture Exposure

If the inside of the control box that houses your hot tub circuit breaker has moisture, this can cause the breaker to trip frequently. Moisture from condensation or rain can get inside these boxes. When this happens, the moisture can end up damaging electrical components inside the control box. You’ll need to have damaged parts replaced and ensure that the hot tub circuit breaker box is protected from additional moisture.

Heater Corrosion or Damage

Hot tub heaters can become corroded or damaged, resulting in a circuit breaker that keeps tripping when you want to use your hot tub. You might be able to notice signs of damage or corrosion in this part of your hot tub. If the heater does have damage, you might need to have it repaired or replaced.

Short Circuits

Short circuits can occur in one of the electrical parts of your hot tub. These short circuits cause your circuit breaker to trip in order to lower the risk of electrocution. If you have a short circuit, the affected part might feel warm. Keep in mind that this is a serious hazard since short circuits can cause fires and electrical shock. You should have a professional electrician repair this problem as soon as possible and avoid using your hot tub in the meantime.

Loose Electrical Connections

The electrical connections in your hot tub might become loose over time. This can lead to power fluctuations that cause your hot tub circuit breaker to trip. Professional electricians can inspect your hot tub and tighten any connections that are loose, which should fix the circuit breaker problem.

No matter what the cause of your circuit breaker trouble is, it’s important to leave it to the professionals. Handling electrical issues on your own puts you at risk of having a serious injury or property damage. The professionals at 24/7 Local Electrician can determine what is causing the circuit breaker to trip and correct the problem safely so that you can get back to enjoying your hot tub.

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician if you need to repair your circuit breaker or other electrical problems in your Phoenix home.

When should I replace my smoke detector?

Mon, 08 May 2023 19:54:00 GMT

Your smoke detector stands on guard all day, every day ready to alert you to a fire. Not surprisingly, all that work eventually wears these devices out and it happens faster than you might think. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 17 percent of fire deaths happen in properties where the smoke detector failed. Knowing when to replace your smoke detector ensures you’ll always have a reliably functioning device protecting your family.

Optimize Your Smoke Alarm System

Before you replace your smoke detectors, make sure you have the right amount in the right locations. If you’re lacking, it’s worth taking the time to plan a complete smoke alarm system. For the highest level of protection, choose a hard-wired or wireless interconnected system. In these systems, when one detector senses smoke, all the alarms in your home sound. A knowledgeable professional electrician can design a system for you and install the smoke detectors in the optimal locations .

Every level of your home, including the basement, should have at least one smoke detector. Smoke rises, so mount your detectors on your ceilings or high on your walls, not more than 12 inches away from the ceiling. A detector should be installed within 10 feet of every bedroom or sleeping area. If a floor has no sleeping area, place the detector near the most used room or by the stairs leading to the next floor up. In the basement, place the detector on the ceiling at the bottom of the stairs.

Keep your smoke alarms at least 10 feet from the kitchen or bathroom to minimize the risk of false alarms from cooking fumes or bathroom steam. Where possible, avoid placing them near windows, exterior doors, and air vents. The drafts these create can blow smoke away from the detector and delay its response to a fire.

Test and Replace Smoke Detectors on Time

Once a month, test your smoke detector by holding down the test button for at least five seconds or until the alarm sounds. If the alarm is weak or doesn’t sound at all, replace the batteries and test again. If fresh batteries don’t help, it’s time for a new detector .

After testing is a good time to dust or vacuum your smoke detector to clean out debris that could clog the sensor.

Even when the test is successful, replace the batteries at least once a year. A beeping or chirping noise from your detector is also a sign the device needs fresh batteries. Alkaline batteries lose power over the year and while old batteries might power the alarm during a test, they could still be too weak to sufficiently power it during a real fire. If your smoke detector has a 10-year or “long-life” lithium battery, you won’t have to replace the battery during the detector’s life span.

Replace each smoke detector after 10 years. This includes lithium-battery alarms and the alarms in hard-wired systems, as well as detectors that still test as functional. The test button only confirms the battery, wiring, and alarm horn are working, but it tells you nothing about the sensor. In many detectors, the sensors lose sensitivity over time or develop a buildup of dust that impairs their sensitivity. Ionization smoke detectors become more sensitive as they age, causing more false alarms. After a while, you’ll be tempted you remove the batteries and leave your home without protection.

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician if you need to replace or add smoke detectors to your home.

10 signs that your home needs electrical rewiring

Mon, 08 May 2023 04:15:00 GMT

Your home’s electrical system is easy to take for granted and the signs of wear and damage aren’t always obvious. Sometimes, seemingly minor issues point to major problems. Spotting the signs your home needs electrica l rewiring can save you from damaged appliances, shocks, and even life-threatening house fires.

Electrical rewiring is a major home project best left to a professional electrician. If your home needs electrical rewiring, call 24/7 Local Electrician today .

7 ways to childproof your home

Sat, 06 May 2023 18:55:00 GMT

When you have children, you’ll want to do everything you can to protect them. More than a third of injuries and deaths in children happen at home. It is easy for kids to accidentally get injured when they are playing or left unsupervised. To keep your kids as safe as possible, it’s important to childproof your home. Here are seven of the most common household dangers and how to childproof them.

1. Swimming Pools and Hot Tubs

Young children can sneak out of your sight quickly if you lose focus for even a moment. They can drown in a pool or hot tub just as quickly. If your home has these enjoyable features, you should install a fence around them immediately. Make sure the latches for the gates are as high as possible to keep them out of reach of tiny hands.

2. Cribs

As unfortunate as it is, many infants die in their sleep due to unsafe sleeping conditions. To babyproof your baby’s crib, make sure the mattress is flat and firm. You should not place any toys, blankets, or pillows in a crib with a baby. They can pose a suffocation hazard . Also, until your baby learns to roll over on their own, you should always put them to sleep on their back.

3. Harmful Substances

From cleaning products to medications to toiletries to alcohol, you’ve likely got a lot of things in your home that are unsafe for children. Wherever possible, consolidate them into a single cupboard or drawer. This way, you only have to childproof those components rather than all of your cabinets. You can buy childproof drawer and cabinet closures at any baby products store.

4. Heavy Furniture

Kids are known for trying to climb just about anything. Unfortunately, that extra weight can cause taller items, like TVs and bookcases, to topple over, possibly crushing your child in the process. Be sure to secure any large or heavy furniture to a stud in the wall to prevent tipping. Many furniture manufacturers provide the necessary hardware along with each piece, so you likely already have everything you need to make them childproof.

5. Sharp Edges

Tables, chairs, and other furnishings can have sharp edges, and careening children can easily bump their heads. Apply foam padding to any corners or sharp edges to provide extra cushioning for little bodies. You can buy specialized foam coverings at baby supply stores, or you can go the DIY route to save a bit of money.

6. Stairs

As your little one starts to crawl, the stairs will become a lot of fun for them to play on. However, there is always the risk that they’ll fall so this can be dangerous. To prevent this from happening, install gates at the top and bottom of your stairs. This way, your baby can only use them under your supervision.

7. Electrical Outlets

As kids explore, they often want to stick pens, forks, and other narrow items into electrical outlets . This can expose them to the risk of electric shock. You can childproof your outlets with tamper resistant outlets. Contact a licensed professional electrician to learn more .

Always Be Vigilant around Your Kids

It is important to note that no childproofing method is 100-percent effective; you’ll still need to supervise your kids at all times. However, the steps you take to make your home safe can go a long way towards protecting your children. If you are concerned about the electrical safety of your home, the experts at 24/7 Local Electrician will be happy to help. Reach out to us today for an appointment.

How to childproof a home office

Fri, 05 May 2023 19:10:00 GMT

The chance to spend more time with your family is one of the best parts of working from home. Before you let your little ones into your workspace, though, it is important to learn how to childproof a home office. There are many parts of a home office that can be dangerous to babies or young children if they are left unsupervised for even a few minutes. By childproofing , you will create an office environment for fun and learning, not danger.

Guard Against Electrical Hazards

Electrical cords are more than just tripping hazards . They carry enough voltage to severely burn or even kill a child who bites one or cuts one open. A child could also accidentally use a cord to bring heavy office equipment toppling down onto them, causing injury or worse.

To prevent this from happening, it is important to secure loose cords with cable ties. Also, use cable clips or electrical tape to affix the cords to the floor around the edge of the room, then cover them with cable trunking.

Electrical outlets are an even greater shock hazard and can be dangerous to children. For these, skip the plastic inserts, which are easy for curious little fingers to pry out. Instead, contact your licensed electrician to install tamper resistant outlets. For power strips, use safety covers to guard against electrical hazards.

Secure the Furniture and Equipment

Kids love to climb, but if your child accidentally pulls a filing cabinet over, the consequences could be tragic. In the US, every other week, a child dies from being crushed by tipped furniture. When you childproof a home office, anchoring bookshelves, filing cabinets, and similar furniture is an important step. Use at least two furniture restraints, or furniture anchors, to secure each item to the wall studs. If you have heavy books, install a strap across the front of the shelf to hold the books in place.

It is a good idea to also avoid piling books or files on top of tall furniture. A child can easily shake the furniture hard enough to bring the pile down. Remove stools, boxes, and other items a child could use to climb up onto taller furniture. Cover any sharp furniture corners or edges with PVC-free corner guards large enough not to pose a choking hazard.

Install a monitor mount to secure your computer monitor to your desk. Use safety straps, often called earthquake straps, to secure your hard drive, printer, scanner, and other equipment. Pay special attention to the shredder, which can leave a child permanently disabled. Place it off the floor or lock it in a case or closet, and keep it unplugged until you need it. To protect your equipment from spills and sticky fingers, use waterproof covers.

Remove Little Hazards

When you childproof a home office, the little things matter, too. The pens, paper clips, staples, and rubber bands on your desk can look tempting to a toddler who puts everything in their mouth. It takes just a moment for a child to choke on one of these small items.

Scissors can cause serious injury to a child who grabs them off your desk. Colorful ink cartridges also look fun to play with. If your child pries one open, though, they can have your office looking like an abstract painting in seconds.

To protect both your child and your work, keep small items like these in your desk so they are out of sight.

Establishing clear rules for behavior in the office can also help, but kids are curious and there’s no 100-percent effective way to childproof a home office. Never leave your child in your office unattended. To keep little ones out when you’re away, install an exterior quality lock on your office door.

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician to inspect the safety of your electrical system and ensure your home office is a safe place for children.

5 electrical mistakes to avoid in your home

Fri, 05 May 2023 05:01:00 GMT

Handling electrical work on your own might offer convenience. However, you could end up making electrical mistakes that put you and your home at risk. Making these mistakes can lead to electrical shocks, short circuits, fires, and other dangerous situations. Avoid making the following electrical errors in your Phoenix home.

Cluttering Electrical Boxes

Electrical boxes can only handle a certain amount of wiring. When you put too many wires in one box, you run the risk of having it overheat. If this happens, fires can start as a result of overheating. Instead of deciding if your electrical box is big enough , let professionals handle it. Electricians can figure out if you have too many wires going into one box. This helps reduce your risk of having a fire or other serious electrical problems.

Cutting Wires Short

Wires sticking out of your electrical box need to have the right length. Cutting these wires too short makes it difficult for you to form safe connections. When connections aren’t safe, fires can break out. Electricians cut wires so they extend 3 inches or more from electrical boxes. Attempting this on your own increases your risk of making electrical mistakes that could cause severe damage to your house or put your family at risk.

Having Unprotected Wiring

Unprotected wiring inside the frame of your home faces a higher chance of being damaged. Nails and other hazards can tear into this wiring over time, which raises the risk of electrical issues or fires in your home. Electricians know how to ensure that wiring in your home has the protection it needs. Leaving it to the experts helps you prevent potentially dangerous electrical mistakes .

Putting Connections Outside Electrical Boxes

All electrical connections between wires should occur inside electrical boxes. Having connections outside these boxes increases the risk of short circuits and other electrical problems. Electrical boxes provide some degree of protection for your home if there are sparks from a short circuit. When you need to make electrical connections, professional electricians should handle this task.

Trusting Online Tutorial Videos

It’s easy to find online tutorial videos for electrical work and assume that you can tackle these projects yourself. Keep in mind you shouldn’t trust these tutorials, though. The people in them might leave out important information or safety steps you should take when doing electrical work. They might perform this work incorrectly in the video as well. Professional electricians know how to do both simple and complex electrical projects safely and correctly .

Avoid Electrical Mistakes from Hidden Dangers

Keep in mind you might not know about hidden dangers in your home from electricity. For example, your home might have older wiring or other components that could cause problems. Electricians can check your home for these potential dangers before starting any work. These professionals know the local and national codes as well, which helps ensure they perform all work as safely as possible.

If your home needs electrical work, leave it to the professionals. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician today .

Commercial electrical safety basics

Wed, 03 May 2023 22:04:00 GMT

Electrical fires are among the main types of fires that occur in commercial buildings . These fires put building occupants at serious risk of harm and damage property as well. As a commercial property owner, learn about commercial electrical safety to keep your occupants and property safe.

Set Up an Electrical Safety Program

Making sure employees are aware of electrical safety risks can help lower the chance of fires. Create a program that educates employees on commercial electrical safety, such as how to identify safety hazards. Teaching employees about these hazards can help keep everyone in your building safe from fire and electrical dangers.

Use Electrical Equipment Properly

Cords, wires, and other electrical equipment can easily lead to a fire hazard if they are used improperly. As a commercial property owner , you should check them on a regular basis. If you come across any trouble, such as an outlet that heats up when in use, have professional electricians handle repairs right away. In addition, you should teach employees to safely unplug equipment rather than yank cords out of outlets.

If you need to use extension cords, only do so on a short-term basis. Store them in areas that people don’t walk through. Never put cords under carpeting or use nails to hold them on the wall or floor. Cords under carpeting can sustain damage from being walked on or having chairs roll over them. Nails can ruin the outer layer of cords, causing them to become worn.

Watch for Electrical Problem Warning Signs

Don’t wait for an electrical fire to break out. Watching for any signs of electrical issues can help ensure you have timely repairs done. This can significantly lower your risk of having an electrical fire in your commercial building. Some signs to watch for include having fuses that blow out often, outlets that are discolored, or lights that tend to flicker. All of those are suggestions that there is a problem with your building’s electrical system. Having professional electricians handle these issues right away reduces your risk of a fire.

Unplug Unused Equipment for Commercial Electrical Safety

Make it a policy in your building to have employees unplug any equipment or items that aren’t being used. Items that are plugged in continue to draw a small amount of electricity . Unplugging these items stops that from happening and lowers the risk of electrical fires.

Replace Worn Equipment

Electrical cords and other equipment can wear out over time. When you have equipment that is showing signs of wear and tear, stop using it and replace it. Using worn equipment can result in electrical problems that could lead to a fire.

Schedule Electrical Inspections

Regular electrical inspections and maintenance on your commercial building can help it stay in good condition. Electricians can replace worn equipment, tighten loose wires, and do other tasks that reduce the risk of fires. Plan on having this done on a routine basis to keep your employees and property safe.

To keep your electrical system healthy, you need to maintain it regularly. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician to learn more about your electrical system and to schedule an inspection.

3 reasons to install a ceiling fan

Wed, 03 May 2023 01:54:00 GMT

Ceiling fans are great for creating air circulation in a room, which can make it feel cooler without changing the actual temperature. However, there are several other benefits to installing ceiling fans throughout your home.

Cut Down on Your Energy Costs

The most obvious benefit of ceiling fans is that they can help to reduce your energy bills , especially in the summer when the weather is hot. When the air around you is moving, even slightly, it feels cooler, so you won’t have to rely on your air conditioning as much. Air conditioning is one of the biggest contributors to high electricity bills, so you stand to save a lot of money in this area.

Of course, you will still require electricity to operate your ceiling fan. However, fans can be up to 70-percent more energy-efficient than AC motors. Running your fan throughout the day will cost you far less than using your AC, and those savings can seriously add up over time. However, make sure to turn it off if you aren’t in the room as they don’t cool while you’re away.

Keep Bugs Away with a Ceiling Fan

If you think that you can only use ceiling fans inside your home , think again. Covered patio or deck areas are prime locations for fans. It is a little-known fact that fans can help deter many flying insects like gnats, mosquitos, flies, and more. These bugs don’t like the air circulation that ceiling fans create, so they’ll tend to stay away from the area around the fan.

This is great for when you want to sit outside in your yard during the summer when the weather is nice. Insects constantly buzzing in your ears while you are trying to enjoy a fun evening with your friends can quickly ruin the occasion, forcing you back indoors. With a fan, you and your guests will be able to relax in comfort so that you can soak up the beautiful weather.

Personalize Your Home

There are so many different styles of ceiling fans on the market today, you are sure to find one that speaks to your personal style and taste. Many new homes these days don’t come with many light fixtures preinstalled. It is likely that they realized many homeowners would prefer to choose their own fixtures. This gives you the chance to make your home truly your own.

In addition to choosing the overall style of the fan, you’ll also be able to choose between lighted and unlighted varieties . If you already have other lighting in the room, you may not need lights on your ceiling fan, as this can add to your cost. Where lighting is minimal, a fan with lights can do just the trick, scattering the light around the room in a wide-angle format. Take your time browsing through the myriad options available to you to find the perfect ceiling fan for your home.

Get Help with Ceiling Fan Installation

Ceiling fans can be quite heavy and have a lot of moving parts. While it is possible to install your fan yourself, it is far easier to let the experts here at 24/7 Local Electrician handle the hard work for you. This is especially true if your home doesn’t already have wiring to the location where you want your fan to go.

We always take great care in our work, treating your home as if it were our own. You can count on us for safe, professional electrical services , including ceiling fan installation. Reach out to us today to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment for a free price quote. Whenever you are ready, our team will be ready to get to work, so call now to get started .

How to save electricity

Tue, 02 May 2023 01:54:00 GMT

For most of us, life without electricity is not an option. You need to power devices and appliances and keep your home cool. All of this costs money. If you are not independently wealthy, you may want to find ways to save electricity .

Fortunately, you can save money by making small changes. Over time, each step can help. How great would it be to have more money at the end of the month by making a few changes at home?

Read on to learn ways to get smart with how you use power.

Bulbs and Appliances

One simple change you can make to save electricity is to use different light bulbs. If you still use incandescent bulbs , you are burning through power and the costs for replacing them. The bulbs cost less than more energy-efficient options, but you will need many more of them in the long run. Switching to CFL, or even better, LED light bulbs will help you save massive amounts of electricity over time.

Similarly, replacing your appliances with Energy Star models helps save over time. These models are specifically designed and tested to use less energy than other appliances. Any up-front cost difference will be more than covered over the life of your appliances.

Service Your Appliances

Some solutions are even simpler. Over time, appliances lose efficiency. Your refrigerator, washer, dryer, and HVAC system have to work harder to do their jobs. This means wasted electricity–and wasted money .

Check and replace your filters, and get regular service on your appliances. Do so regularly–at least every six months. This helps save electricity, protect the appliances, and extend their lives. In the interim, it keeps your energy bills low. Don’t wait for things to break down; regular service can help you save electricity today.

Use Power Strips

Most people know they need to power down when they stop using devices. You turn off the lights and your television set. You may even shut down your computer when you leave the room.

All of this is a good start. You may not realize it, though, that many of your electronics keep drawing power when you turn them off. You can go without using some devices for days or weeks, and find an electric bill that gives no hint of savings .

One solution to save electricity is to unplug everything. While it helps you save, though, it can be very inconvenient. Instead, consider using power strips for your electronic devices. When you leave home, you can turn off the strip and cut off all the electricity going through. If power strips aren’t your thing or they represent a tripping hazard, call us to learn about adding switches to your wall outlets .

Help from the Experts

All of these are easy DIY fixes to help you save electricity for your home . Beyond this, you can work with experts who can make your home even more energy efficient. You may benefit from updating your wiring or installing smart switches. An in-depth look at your home can yield savings from many avenues.

If you invest in smart switches, you can get out of your own way to save money. Motion control lights help you use electricity only for times you benefit from it. Further, faulty wiring or insulation can drive your energy costs way up. These are less obvious sources of savings, but can make a big difference for your wallet.

To get the most energy efficiency from your home, look at all of the ways you can conserve. A reputable electrician will find ways to save electricity throughout your home. In the Phoenix area, contact 24/7 Local Electrician . We will examine your home and help you find ways to save.

What to do when your smoke detector isn’t working

Mon, 01 May 2023 01:54:00 GMT

Smoke alarms provide a convenient and cost-effective way to ensure that you and your family are alerted if a fire occurs. This is why it’s so important to make sure that your smoke alarms are working properly. Here’s what you should do if a smoke detector isn’t working in your home.

Testing Smoke Detectors

Your smoke detectors are a vital part of keeping you and your family safe. To make sure that yours are working right, you should test them on a regular basis. This helps ensure that you have smoke alarms that will immediately alert your household if there’s a fire.

How do you test your smoke detectors? Most have a test button that you simply push to check if your alarm is working. You should hear a beep when you press this button, which indicates that your alarm is functioning. Make a habit of testing your smoke alarms once a month. Keep in mind that you should also put new batteries in your smoke detectors every spring and fall.

Troubleshooting Your Smoke Detectors

If you test your smoke detector and don’t hear a beep from it, your first step should be replacing the batteries . With new batteries, your smoke detector should work. If you’re still not hearing any beeps, this means that something else is wrong. Your smoke detector might have reached its lifespan or it could be damaged. Either way, you should replace it with a new one as soon as you can.

What happens if your smoke detector keeps beeping without any fire present? Battery-operated detectors tend to beep every so often to let you know that they need new batteries. AC-powered smoke detectors typically beep when they’re nearing their lifespan and need to be replaced. They might also beep if they’re malfunctioning.

Keep in mind that testing the batteries when a smoke detector isn’t working is just one step. You can test your alarms in other ways as well. For example, you can carefully light a match and blow it out while standing under a smoke alarm. The smoke that drifts up should set off the alarm. If this doesn’t happen, you should replace your smoke alarm with a brand new one.

If your smoke detectors appear dusty, you can clean them off. You should clean inside them as well to remove dust and debris that could affect the sensors. After cleaning your smoke detectors, you can test them again to see if they work. If they don’t respond to smoke or if they don’t beep after you push the test button, you need to replace them.

Replacing a Smoke Detector That Isn’t Working

If you have to replace your smoke detectors , keep in mind there are different types available. Electricians can help you determine the best type to get for your Phoenix home to protect you and your family. They can install these for you as well and ensure that you have smoke alarms properly placed around your home.

Smoke alarms generally last up to ten years. Even if you have a smoke detector that is working, you should consider replacing it if it’s getting close to reaching its lifespan.

If your smoke detectors aren’t working properly, don’t wait another minute. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician right away.

10 benefits of LED lighting in commercial buildings

Sun, 30 Apr 2023 01:54:00 GMT

Business owners often examine all areas of their operations to see where they can save money , operate more efficiently , and improve the customer and employee experience. Switching from traditional (incandescent) to LED (light-emitting diodes) lighting does that and more. As a result, LED lighting is the choice of top business owners and managers.

10 Benefits of LED Lighting in Commercial Settings

The average lifespan of a traditional light bulb is 1,200 hours. An LED bulb averages 25,000 hours. In other words, you’d need to buy 21 $1 light bulbs to equal one $8 LED bulb.

LED light systems have become popular for commercial settings for a variety of reasons. This includes their extended lifespans, lower energy consumption (LED upgrades can generate as much as 75%-90% improvement in energy efficiency), and fewer maintenance requirements.

How many people does it take to change a light bulb? LED lighting requires less maintenance time and lower replacement costs. Other benefits include:

LED Lighting Conversions for Your Business

Restaurant owners are quick to respond to any upgrade that will keep staff and customers happy. LED lights have a higher color temperature, which elevates employees’ positive moods and productivity. LED light systems are even used to treat depression. Also, researchers continue to understand the connection between mood and light.

“Modern LED lighting systems are now taking this relationship between light and mood to its next level,” says SpecGrade. “… Lighting engineers are experimenting daily with uses of LED lighting that directly improve mood and physical health, with advanced optics and color temperature variance.”

Psychological benefits of LED lighting include:

Consider Making the Switch to LED lights

Your organization may be retail or a service-provider ; non-profit or home office. The bottom line: At some point, you deal onsite, with people. LED lighting’s psychological impacts may be small, but can add up. Overall, they provide emotional wellness for you, your employees, and customers. And that’s bound to be good business.

Make the Switch Sooner, Rather Than Later

The technology of LED lighting continues to evolve. LED performance continues to improve, and since 2008, LED prices have dropped 90%. You need a commercial electrician for a safer LED conversion.

Saving energy and money is everyone’s business. Refitting your commercial property with LED lighting is better for your business. If you’re ready to switch to LED lighting for your commercial building, contact 24/7 Local Electrician today .

Maintaining your home’s electrical system

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 21:42:00 GMT

A well-maintained home electrical system is crucial. It ensures your system lasts longer and also gives you peace of mind knowing your home is safe. Electrical system maintenance can lower costs and reduce risks.

Your Arizona Electrical System Company Must Be Licensed

Your electrical system professional should be a trained, experienced technician for a local company licensed with the state of Arizona. Check the Arizona ROC (Registrar of Contractors) if you are unsure. A CR11 license means your electrical system company holds a commercial and residential license and can…

install, alter, and repair any wiring, related electrical material and equipment used in the generating, transmitting, or utilization of electrical energy less than 600 volts, including all overhead electrical wiring on public right-of-ways for signs and street decorations, and all underground electrical distribution systems of less than 600 volts serving private properties.

What You Need to Know About Electrical System Inspection, Maintenance

When buying or building a home, an electrical inspection should be performed. The inspection should include a thorough examination of all electrical wiring and connections. As part of a new maintenance program, your local electrician will perform an initial inspection. As a result, they will report on your property’s current safety and what might be needed now or later.

An annual preventive maintenance visit is recommended for all commercial and residential properties, new and old alike. Here are things your local electrician will examine during an inspection and annual maintenance visit.

Electrical Maintenance for Your Home or Commercial Property

Most property owners schedule preventive maintenance for HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) and vehicles, but neglect electrical system maintenance. In this era of rapid technology evolution, your local, licensed electrical services company should participate in continuing education.

The professionals at 24/7 Local Electrician of Arizona are trained and experienced in electrical technology for home and commercial properties. Also, we are LEED-certified and Home Advisor-approved. (LEED is the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.) This means we care about our planet and will always seek sustainable solutions for your property.

Valley-area families and businesses trust 24/7 Local Electrician . You can trust them, too. We appreciate DIY (do-it-yourself) home maintenance but want our friends and neighbors to avoid electrical mistakes. For affordable electrical system safety with up-front pricing, contact 24/7 Local Electrician.

4 outdoor ceiling fan benefits

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 21:43:00 GMT

Arizona homeowners are lucky to enjoy beautiful weather throughout much of the year. This makes it easy to enjoy spending time outdoors. However, it can also get incredibly hot, especially in the summer. Adding a ceiling fan to your outdoor space can help to keep you cool and comfortable while also keeping bugs away. Here’s what you need to know about outdoor ceiling fans and their benefits.

The Difference Between Indoor and Outdoor Ceiling Fans

As you start shopping for ceiling fans, you’ll likely notice that some are designated for inside the home, while others say that they can be used outdoors. Outdoor ceiling fans will be exposed to the elements of weather. Therefore, they need to be much more durable than their indoor counterparts.

Look for the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) rating on the fans you are considering to determine where you can use them. You’ll see the following designations:

Benefits of Outdoor Ceiling Fans

Installing a ceiling fan can make a big difference in your outdoor lifestyle, and here’s how.

Extend Your Patio Use

When the temperature rises in the summer here in Arizona, the heat can get quite stifling. This can diminish your enjoyment of your backyard. With a fan, you and your guests will be able to stay much cooler. It will allow you to use your patio throughout the summer without worrying about overheating. This way, you can make the most of your outdoor space at just about any time of the year.

Brighten Things Up

Many outdoor ceiling fans incorporate lights . This way, you’ll be able to enjoy your patio just as much at night as you do during the day. When choosing the bulbs for your light fixture, make sure they aren’t too bright. You want there to be enough light to see what you are doing, but not so much that your outdoor space becomes as bright as day. The light should be soft and warm to create an atmosphere that is welcoming and inviting, not cold and clinical.

Customize and Beautify Your Outdoor Space

There are countless ceiling fans to choose from in the outdoor category . There is also a wide range of styles among them. Adding a ceiling fan to your patio is about more than just keeping you cool; it is also about beautifying the space and making it an enjoyable place to spend your time. Think about the overall vibe you are going for in your outdoor space to guide your decision. Your outdoor ceiling fan should fit with your general theme for your backyard, whether it is vibrant and tropical or understated and elegant.

Keep Bugs Away

Nothing can ruin an outdoor gathering faster than a swarm of gnats, flies, or other insects. Many of these bugs don’t like moving air, so the circulation created by your outdoor ceiling fan can help to keep them at bay. You’ll really appreciate this benefit when you and your loved ones are dining outside, as it will keep the bugs away from your food. It will also prevent them from buzzing around your head while you relax and unwind at the end of the day.

Enhance Your Backyard with an Outdoor Ceiling Fan

If a ceiling fan is just the thing your patio needs, get in touch with the electrical experts at 24/7 Local Electrician today. We’ll install your new fan as quickly and efficiently as possible so you can start enjoying it right away. Call now to get started .

4 reasons to consider electrical rewiring

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 21:43:00 GMT

When a local homeowner contacted 24/7 Local Electrician about electrical rewiring, he indicated he had recently purchased an older property. After attending the Phoenix-area neighborhoods’ Historic Homes Tour in February (2019), the couple knew an older home was what they wanted.

“It’s a historical home,” he said, “But my wife says it’s a hysterical home.” The new old-homeowners told 24/7 Local Electrician there were several signs of electrical problems in more than one room.

Reasons Properties Need Electrical Rewiring

When a property needs electrical wiring replacement, a professional electrical rewiring is necessary. Electrical rewiring is not a DIY (do-it-yourself) job. Ever.

If something went wrong and damage resulted from faulty DIY wiring, your insurance company could deny coverage. And that’s the best-case scenario. DIY electrical repair jeopardizes the safety of your loved ones. It’s not worth the risks.

There are 4 reasons your home or business property may need electrical rewiring:

1. New Homes

During a new-house-build, something could have been overlooked as contractors strive to complete on-time, within-budget demands . According to ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors), some “surprising” examples include kitchen fans that don’t vent and behind-the-wall damage that jeopardizes electrical wiring.

2. Older Properties

ASHI also recommends a close inspection of electrical systems in any 15-year-old home . A 25-year old home is “middle age,” and “In this age group we may find that the lighting and wall-receptacle wiring is aluminum; this could be a serious problem,” ASHI continues.

3. 50-Year-Old Homes

Electrical systems could be outdated by today’s standards; an electrical rewiring assessment should be made and follow-up annual maintenance visits scheduled.

4. Historical Homes

Century-old structures can be beautiful but art imitates life: Aging has its challenges. These homeowners often consider electrical rewiring a good preventive measure.

Signs of Electrical Issues

Our Phoenix-area historical homeowners made a wise decision to contact 24/7 Local Electrician when they did. Red flags signaling their property needed electrical rewiring were:

Top-Rated 24/7 Local Electrician

Electrical rewiring sounds extreme, but imagine the possible losses due to a house fire. 24/7 Local Electrician is a residential and commercial electrical contractor serving all of Phoenix Metro area including:

If it’s time for your home to have an electrical rewiring assessment, contact 24/7 Local Electrician .

Installing smoke detectors at home

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 22:00:00 GMT

Most homes use battery-operated smoke detectors to alert occupants of smoke, fire, or carbon monoxide (CO). While these safety devices work fine for your home , they must be replaced per the manufacture’s specifications. Keep the following information in mind if you need to choose new devices for your home.

Options for Smoke Detector Devices

You may benefit from having certain types of smoke detectors. A few of the different options that are available for your residence include the following:

Installation and Operation Requirements

No matter what type of smoke detector you choose for your home, you should have them professionally installed. Our electricians can ensure that your new detectors are properly and safely installed. With a hard-wired system, they can handle the installation process without damaging your existing wiring. We always recommend a hard-wired system as they have a longer battery life, require less maintenance, and communicate better in the event of a fire.

New smoke detectors to the market are smart home enabled and can connect to your mobile device whether you’re home or away. This can provide peace of mind knowing that you’ll always be alerted should there be a fire in your home. Some of these smart devices include CO detectors as well as improved detection to alert you sooner rather than later. With mobile alerts, everyone in your family can know if there’s a problem in your home.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to have electricians take care of maintenance and repairs if you go with hard-wired detectors. Our team can handle these tasks to ensure that your detectors continue to work properly.

Locations for Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors need to cover the areas of your home that you spend your time in. You should have a detector installed in each room, hallway, and bedroom. Keep in mind that with a hard-wired system in place, all will sound to smoke or fire in your home right away. With a non-hardwired detector, only the detector in the affected area goes off. Other detectors won’t sound the alarm until smoke or fire reaches the area they’re in. However, the newer “smart” smoke detectors are able to wirelessly alert each other so you won’t have to be near the fire or smoke to know there’s a problem.

Professional electricians can help you determine the most suitable placement for your detectors if you’re installing new ones. This will depend on the layout of your home and other factors, such as the size.

Whether you’re installing new smoke detectors or aren’t sure if your current ones are working properly, contact 24/7 Local Electrician today .

Should you replace aluminum wiring in your home?

Sat, 22 Apr 2023 03:07:00 GMT

If your house uses aluminum wiring, you may have safety hazards lurking. Fires, shorts, and other problems can come at any time, and leave you scrambling. The older, less efficient wiring used in older homes creates problems over time. Meanwhile, you are likely paying higher electric bills .

Before you see a problem emerge, you should have your wiring checked by an expert. Even if you aren’t seeing electrical issues, you should act to protect your family and your wallet. Here are five good reasons to look to replace your aluminum wiring today.

1. Avoid Potential Fire Hazards From Aluminum Wiring

According to the National Fire Protection Association , 19% of deaths in home structure fires come from faulty wiring. Because older homes primarily used aluminum rather than copper wiring, they come with particular dangers. The wiring tends to fray or pulls apart over time. This can create overheating, sparks or fires.

2. Get Better Insurance Coverage

Today, many insurance companies will either refuse to insure or charge sky-high premiums for your structural coverage. They recognize the likelihood of problems in a house that is not up to code. You need coverage against hazards that might arise. Replacing your aluminum wiring comes with an up-front cost, but can save you a fortune down the road.

3. Avoid Common Electrical Problems

Often, you will see signs of wiring problems. In addition, you may experience the following:

If you see any of these signs, it is a good idea to get an inspection. A light shorting out when you are on the stairs or a refrigerator shutting down in the summer can hit hard. It is both better and cheaper to catch a potential problem than to deal with a current one!

4. Save On Utility Bills

There are reasons copper wiring is the new standard. Copper conducts heat better and lasts longer. It allows you to use less electricity in your home every day. The more up to date your wiring, the safer and less expensive it will be for you to live there every day.

5. Do Your Part For The World

When you replace your aluminum wiring, you also use less energy over time. This decreases waste and conserves resources. Your old wiring forces you to use more and get less for doing so. The waste adds up over time with every house using aluminum in its wiring system .

You Need To Consult The Experts

For many reasons, you need to look at the wiring in your home. Older homes are particularly vulnerable to problems, but any house with improper wiring becomes a ticking time bomb. You can wait for something to go wrong, but the longer you wait, the harder the fix becomes. With time, the hit on your wallet will only grow.

Of course, the only thing worse than waiting is attempting to fix the wiring yourself. You need experienced, professional help. In the Phoenix area, your best electrician partner is 24/7 Local Electrician . We will inspect your home and take care of all of your electrical needs. Contact us today to protect your house, your family, and your wallet from the dangers of aluminum wiring.

Aluminum rewiring in your Phoenix home

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 03:07:00 GMT

Many older homes in the Greater Phoenix area have aluminum wiring . However, this type of wiring may not be the best for your home and can actually cause significant problems over the years. If your home is equipped with this outdated wiring style, it may be time for aluminum rewiring to ensure your safety and the proper operation of your electrical system. Here’s why you should consider aluminum rewiring.

Prevent Fires

As aluminum wire connections deteriorate over time, they lose their ability to effectively carry current. This can cause them to overheat, possibly starting dangerous electrical fires in your home. With aluminum rewiring, you’ll get new copper wiring, which is much more resistant to fire, helping to keep you and your loved ones as safe as possible . When your safety is on the line, you can’t afford not to make an appointment for aluminum rewiring right away.

Protect Electrical Faceplates

When your aluminum wires get hot, a lot of that heat transfers into the faceplates of your electrical outlets , as well as their mounting hardware. In some cases, the metal screws on the faceplates can reach temperatures of up to 300 degrees. This can cause severe burns to your skin if you unknowingly touch a hot faceplate. The faceplates can also emit sparks, increasing your risk of fire. Aluminum rewiring will eliminate this problem and make your faceplates safe once again.

Aluminum Rewiring to Stop Flickering Lights

Because aluminum wires lose their ability to carry a charge over time, they can cause your lights to flicker. When the current is uneven, your lights won’t get the power they need to stay steadily lit. This results in flickering or lights that don’t work altogether. While not particularly dangerous, this can still be quite an inconvenience. After aluminum rewiring with new copper wires, this problem will be eliminated.

Power Modern Appliances

Today’s appliances, while more energy-efficient than their predecessors, still require a steady supply of power to operate effectively. Old aluminum wiring, even if it doesn’t have any major issues, may not have the ability to carry enough of a charge to power newer devices, especially those that use a lot of electricity, like refrigerators and other appliances. After aluminum rewiring, your appliances and other electronic devices should have all the power they need.

Save Money on Energy Costs

When your electronic devices aren’t getting the steady power they need, they won’t be able to operate at their most efficient level. This can result in your home drawing even more power from the main power grid, even though it isn’t effectively delivered to where it needs to go. Over time, this can drastically increase your electricity bills. Once you have completed an aluminum rewiring service , your home will be able to make much better use of the power it receives, minimizing the amount of electricity you’ll have to pull from the power grid. You’ll likely begin to see savings on your monthly energy bills right away.

Get Started with Aluminum Rewiring

Because of all these potential problems, it is crucial that you schedule an aluminum rewiring appointment as soon as possible. The experts here at 24/7 Local Electrician will be more than happy to assist you. We have helped countless homeowners in the Phoenix area with their aluminum rewiring needs, and we can help you too. Reach out to our team today to learn more about this important service and schedule an appointment for an estimate to evaluate your home’s needs.

What you need to know about house rewiring

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 03:07:00 GMT

If you have an older home, you may need house rewiring. Perhaps you’ve experienced some indicators there’s an electrical problem and your local electrical contractor has advised house rewiring. What do you need to know?

House Rewiring 101

When an HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) professional says you need an expert to change a basic AC filter; be wary. When a professional electrical contractor says house rewiring is not a DIY (do-it-yourself) project, believe it.

Rewiring is a complex renovation that can have safety issues and hazards not worth risking by doing it yourself. Clues you may need house rewiring include:

Factors Influencing House Rewiring Costs

Sometimes rewiring is isolated to one room or the garage. Whole-house rewiring depends on many variables, especially square footage. Your cost may be somewhere between $1,500 to $20,000.

Some of the factors that affect rewiring cost are:

What Your Electrician Will Do

House rewiring requires a lot of planning. You and your electrician may need to decide where new outlets should go. After a preliminary inspection, your electrician will begin making chalk notations to position new outlets.

There are 2 methods of house rewiring installation:

Important considerations for outlets and wiring methodology are:

The entire house rewiring turnaround time – and again, there are many variables – can be anywhere from 3-10 days. The job is also inconvenient.

You can’t use some electrical appliances for a while and may have unlit rooms. You’ll have to move furniture around for the electrician(s), and even though they will clean up after themselves, you’ll still have a mess to manage and additional cleaning after they leave. If it’s not a risk to wait, some families schedule a vacation during their house rewiring.

You Can Trust 24/7 Local Electrician

Are you considering electrical rewiring for your commercial or residential property? The electrical professionals at 24/7 Local Electrician work in a culture of integrity and take pride in their work. Our primary motivation is to ensure safety for homes like yours. Contact Local Electrician to learn more about house rewiring options.

Electrical rewiring basics, 3 things you need to know

Sun, 16 Apr 2023 03:39:00 GMT

Electrical wiring in homes isn’t designed to last forever. You may need rewiring at some point to keep your home safe and your electrical devices operating as efficiently as possible. Here at 24/7 Local Electrician , we are experts in this task. We can help you understand the most important electrical rewiring basics. Read on for everything you need to know.

Electrical Rewiring Basics

Many older homes, especially those built in the 70s, were constructed with aluminum wiring due to a shortage of copper at the time. This type of wiring may deteriorate over time. Ultimately making it more difficult for the wires to steadily transfer current to your electrical devices. In addition, building codes have changed over the decades, and the wiring in your home may no longer be up to code. If you plan to remodel or renovate your home , you may need to have it rewired to meet current building standards.

Why Rewiring Is Necessary

Aluminum wires may become prone to overheating, possibly causing shorts or electrical fires. Even the faceplates on your electrical outlets can get very hot, especially their mounting screws. If you brush up against one inadvertently, you could be in for a nasty burn.

For the safety of your home and your loved ones, it is essential that you have your electrical system rewired by a professional. In addition to enhancing your safety, this may also help your system operate more efficiently, saving you money on your energy costs over the years.

Finally, not all electricians give their work the same level of attention to detail as we do. It is possible for your existing wiring to have been installed incorrectly. This can create problems throughout your home, leading to difficulty using your electric devices and appliances.

How to Know If You Need Electrical Rewiring

One of the most important electrical rewiring basics is knowing when it is time to rewire your home. Look out for the following signs:

If you have any concerns about your home’s electrical system, it is essential that you contact an experienced electrician right away to address the problem. The longer you delay, the greater your risk of electrical fire.

Working with a Professional Electrician

Electrical rewiring is a complex task that you should never attempt to do on your own. If you don’t know exactly what you are doing, you could be exposing yourself to the risk of electrocution or starting an electrical fire. Instead, it is much better to leave this task to the professionals. This will ensure the job is done safely and accurately.

When you work with 24/7 Local Electrician for your rewiring needs, we’ll send someone out to your Phoenix home as quickly as possible. We’ll start with a thorough inspection of your property to identify any problems and evaluate the condition of your current electrical system. We’ll then walk you through the rewiring basics so you can make an informed decision.

We welcome you to reach out to us at any time for answers to all your questions about electrical wiring and the services we provide. Our friendly team members are always happy to help, so get in touch with us today to learn more. We’ll set you up with a free consultation to find out if electrical rewiring is right for your Phoenix home. Call today to reserve your appointment at a time that is convenient for you.

The best electrician in Phoenix

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 21:38:00 GMT

When a young couple bought a small but historical property in Earll Place, they were excited about their new home. Several months later, they had an occasional light-flickering and noticed two of their kitchen electrical cover plates became unusually warm the longer they were used.

The home had passed inspection, so what could be wrong? They contacted Chad Ridenour because their neighbor said Chad was “the best electrician in Phoenix.”

The Best Electrician Knows Your Community

Chad knew in the ’60s and ’70s there had been a copper wire shortage in Arizona and other parts of the U.S. Even “ the best electrician ” in Phoenix may have substituted aluminum wiring for repair jobs at some point during that era.

Sure enough, the home had been remodeled during that timeframe, but rather than insert an occasional aluminum wire, the kitchen had aluminum wiring throughout. It had performed well, but its usefulness – and safety – were in jeopardy.

When copper wiring rusts, it’s green in color and even the oxide in copper rust is a good conductor of electricity. Aluminum oxide (rust) is white and is such a bad conductor it can interfere with the electrical current and cause overheating.

Qualities of a Great Electrical Contractor

Maricopa County has quite a diversity of older and newer properties, both commercial and residential. While we want to preserve our Arizona heritage, 24/7 Local Electrician wants to circumvent the health and safety risks sometimes associated with older wiring.

The best electrician takes everything about your property into consideration: age, condition, location. He or she will honestly tell you if your wiring is on its last legs (but still safe) or needs immediate attention.

Honesty is a very basic quality for a service provider, but it’s the most important one. Other qualities you might find in the best electrician include:

24/7 Local Electrician Works Harder to be the Best for YOU

Why is 24/7 Local Electrician the best in Phoenix? It’s the best because 24/7 Local Electrician has a fantastic team to support all of your electrical needs. These knowledgeable, trained electrical professionals put safety first and strive to deliver the best quality work while meeting your timeframe (and your budget).

We guarantee our work, and if there’s a problem, we’ll do everything we can to make it right. The best electrician and the best electrical contractor in Phoenix will be here tomorrow – and for years to come.

24/7 Local Electrician professionals are available 24/7 and are able to provide free estimates over the phone. Would you like to work with the best electrical team in Phoenix? We have employment openings for problem-solvers looking for challenging, better career options.

Install outdoor lighting in your Phoenix home

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 14:52:00 GMT

When the weather is warm here in Phoenix, which covers most of the year, most people want to spend as much time as they can enjoying it. In addition to all of the local attractions, you may also spend a fair bit of time in your own backyard. To truly make the most of your yard, especially in the evenings, you’ll need to install outdoor lighting .

Types of Outdoor Lighting

You’ll find countless options available to you in the outdoor lighting realm, but they generally fall into a few primary categories:

How to Install Outdoor Lighting

When it comes to electrical work, it is always a good idea to leave the task to the professionals. In working with your electrician, you’ll likely go through the following stages:

Trust 24/7 Local Electrician to Install Outdoor Lighting for Your Phoenix Home

When you need to install outdoor lighting in your backyard, you can count on 24/7 Local Electrician to get the job done right. We’ll ensure that everything is cabled properly and that all of the lights are rated to withstand the elements over the years. Reach out to us today for a free consultation.

Things to know about commercial electricians

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 03:31:00 GMT

If you’re not in the electrical industry it can seem, at first glance, as though residential and commercial electricians are relatively similar.

After all, both types of systems are capable of powering a variety of electronic appliances and devices.

However, the two are actually more different than you might realize. Here’s what you need to know about what sets commercial electricians apart from residential ones.

Expanded Scope of Work for Commercial Electricians

In general, commercial electrical installations tend to be much more complex than residential systems. Commercial properties are often much larger than single-family homes. They require more extensive electrical work to power the entire facility.

Because of this, those who are qualified to work on residential systems may not necessarily be capable of working as commercial electricians. To ensure your business is getting the best electrical system possible, it is important to work with a qualified electrician who has experience in commercial settings.

Different Power Requirements

Typically, residential properties utilize single-phase electricity. This means that all of the wiring in the home is fed from a single wire from the utility and provides 120/240V.

Certain appliances, like air conditioners and refrigerators, generally need the higher 240V. However, that extra voltage is typically only for these specific pieces of equipment, not throughout the entire property.

In commercial installations, on the other hand, the power requirements are more extensive. Commercial electricians must also be familiar with three-phase wiring. In this setup, the wire consists of three “legs” that either come in at 120/208V or 277/480V and gets more complicated from there.

Wiring Location

The location of the electrical wiring varies between residential and commercial settings as well. In a home or apartment, the wiring is typically between the walls, in the ceiling or attic.

The wires are usually insulated in plastic sheathing as well to protect the home’s insulation and other internal components.

Commercial electricians need to have easier access to the facility’s wiring. Many commercial facilities rent or lease space to various businesses, so the layout and configuration of the building can change frequently as companies come and go.

Because of this, the wires have to run through metal or plastic tubing along the walls or just above the ceiling tiles. Commercial electricians may need to adjust the wiring for each new business. They don’t want to have to tear down walls in order to do so.

Why Your Business Needs a Commercial Electrician

While it may be tempting to stick with a residential electrician you know and trust, this person is likely not the best choice for a commercial job. Becoming a commercial electrician requires additional training beyond what is needed for residential electrical services .

When it comes to powering your business, you want to ensure you are getting exactly what your company needs.

While your residential electrician may be able to handle some commercial electrical work, they may not be capable of handling more complex jobs.

Commercial electricians will have the skills and expertise necessary to ensure your business is getting the power it needs.

For any equipment and appliances in your facility. This will ensure your company is able to operate as smoothly as possible with minimal electrical disruptions.

24/7 Local Electrician Is Here for Your Business

Don’t just trust your company’s electrical needs to any electrician. For the best commercial electricians in the Phoenix area, call on 24/7 Local Electrician . We’ll help you power your business so that it can continue to grow and expand.

Call now for a free consultation to discuss your company’s electrical needs.

Emergency electricians, what you need to know

Sat, 08 Apr 2023 03:31:00 GMT

You may not want to appear as an over-anxious property owner. If you suspect you need electrical help , what’s constitutes an emergency? Do you really need emergency electricians?

Arizona emergency electricians say when in doubt, make the call . If you feel your electrical problem has become immediately dangerous, you’re probably right.

Finding emergency electricians

A great time to investigate and identify your Phoenix-area electric services company is before you need one. Savvy homeowners store emergency numbers in their cellphones under “E” for “emergency.”

What to look for in a local electrical services company

You can trust Home Advisor and Yelp for local home services reviews. Emergency electricians in Arizona must carry a license from the state. Make sure you confirm the company is bonded, insured for injury and liability.

When to call for emergency electrical service

Any ongoing electrical problem that lasts more than an hour might constitute an electrical emergency. Whether it relates to an appliance or not, it could be dangerous. Heavy smoke or fire is your cue to vacate the home and call 911.

If you suffer an electrical outage, first call your electric company. However, if your electric company has no known power outages in your area, you should call your Phoenix-area electric service company and speak with an emergency electrical service technician .

Other signs you need immediate, emergency electrical service include:

Scheduling non-emergency electrical service

Any time you are building new or renovating a property, you should discuss electrical wiring and rewiring with your Maricopa County electrical contractor. The cost varies, depending on commercial vs. residential wiring, but project safety is priceless.

Another small but important service is smoke detector installation. For the best protection, interconnect your smoke alarms. This is a wiring job for your electrician.

Local Electric for homes and commercial properties

24/7 Local Electrician offers over 10 years’ experience in serving Phoenix communities. There are area-specific factors that impact Arizona residential and commercial properties, and because we’re “local,” our company comes highly recommended.

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician with any questions. We want to be the company on your cellphone under “E” for “emergency!”

Electric panel repair for your Scottsdale home

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 20:11:00 GMT

You’re likely familiar with your property’s electrical panel. It is a small cabinet that contains all of your home’s circuit breakers. These breakers control the power into your home or business. Over time, though, these panels can deteriorate, resulting in the need for electric panel repair or replacement . Here’s how to tell when it is time to service yours.

Lights Flickering

From time to time, you may notice that your lights flicker when you operate other electronic devices. This is often the case with hairdryers, vacuums, and other devices that consume a lot of power. Older circuits may not be capable of handling the energy needs of modern electronics, and this can divert power from your lights, causing them to flicker. This type of electric panel repair typically requires upgrading your wires and circuitry to accommodate the latest electronics.

Breakers Not Resetting

Circuit breakers are designed to trip when they detect a power surge or other anomaly in the electric current. This serves to protect your wires from becoming heating coils and creating a much larger problem involving pretty red trucks. Once a breaker trips, you’ll need to reset it to get the power back on in that area. However, as circuits get worn, they may not reset properly, leaving you without power in that particular area. This is typically a simple electric panel repair that just involves replacing that particular circuit breaker.

Breakers Constantly Tripping

While you want your circuit breakers to trip when there is an emergency, it can be annoying and frustrating when they trip too frequently. As your electrical panel wears over time, it becomes more susceptible to power surges, leading your breakers to trip more often. If you have to reset your breakers more than once a year, there is likely a problem in your electrical panel. In cases like this, electric panel repair may no longer be possible; it is often better to replace the panel entirely to prevent future risk.

Buzzing or Humming Noises

If you hear buzzing or humming sounds coming from your electrical panel, that is a surefire sign that something is wrong. Strange noises often indicate a faulty connection somewhere in the wiring, which could expose you to the risk of electrocution if you touch the panel. Not only that, but you’ll also be at increased risk of electrical fires, putting the safety of everyone in your home or business at risk. If you hear any kind of sound coming from your circuit breakers, call a qualified electrician for electric panel repair immediately.

Leave Electric Panel Repair to the Professionals

When you are having trouble with your electrical panel, it can sometimes be tempting to try to repair it yourself. However, this is never a good idea. Working with electricity can be highly dangerous, especially if you are unfamiliar with what you are doing. Instead, it is always best to let a professional electrician handle any electric panel repairs you need. This way, you and your loved ones will stay as safe as possible, and you can have confidence that the job has been done properly.

Here at 24/7 Local Electrician , we are proud to provide expert electric panel repair services for homeowners and businesses throughout the Phoenix area. Our technicians are highly trained and skilled, so you can count on us to get the job done right. When we come out to your property, we’ll identify the problem as quickly as possible so that we can get it repaired for you right away. Call us right away for all your electrical needs . We’re always happy to help!

What you need to know about an after hours electrician

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 20:12:00 GMT

Electrical emergencies can happen at any time of the day or night, and they don’t always follow normal business hours. When you run into a major electrical problem , waiting until morning to deal with it could result in short circuits, electric shocks or even electrical fires. Because of this, it is in your best interest to have an after hours electrician take care of the problem as quickly as possible. Read on for five of the most common electrical emergencies and what to do if you encounter one.

Power Outages

Typically with power outages, the other homes in your neighborhood will be without power as well. However, if the outage is localized to just your home, it could signal a major issue. If the power goes out in your home, take a quick look outside to see if there are still lights on in the area. If you are the only one without power, it’s time to give your after hours electrician a call .

Overloaded Outlets

If you have a shortage of electrical outlets in convenient locations in your home, it can be tempting to add extra outlets with power bars and other accessories. However, individual outlets are only capable of handling so much usage at once. Plugging in too many devices in the same spot can be a recipe for disaster. The outlet can overheat, leading to sparks, burning smells and even electrical fires. To keep your home safe, this is not an issue you should leave unchecked.

Faulty Wiring

Not all after hours electricians are as skilled or qualified as they could be. That means that your home could have wiring that was installed or upgraded improperly. It could also be that a previous owner of your Phoenix home attempted to do electrical work themselves. Faulty wiring can make the electricity in your home unpredictable. This can cause problems for your appliances and other electronics, causing them to work only intermittently or leading to sparks coming from your outlets.

Humming or Buzzing Breaker Box

Your breaker box is a critical safety component of your Phoenix home’s electrical system. It can lead to problems if it is not working properly. Basically, the breaker box shuts down the power to a particular area of your home if it detects an anomaly in the power supply. Without this fail-safe, you and your loved ones could be at risk of electricution. You should call your after hours electrician immediately if you notice any strange noises coming from your breaker box.

Fallen Power Lines

During storms or periods of strong wind that are common here in Phoenix, power lines can fall down. This can create a hazard for anyone who comes near. If you notice any downed power lines on or near your property, call an emergency or after hours electrician immediately. Until the problem has been dealt with, don’t go anywhere near the fallen lines, even in your car. You should also get in touch with your electrical services provider, as well as emergency services.

Contact an After Hours Electrician Right Away

When you are in need of an after hours electrician in the Greater Phoenix area, you can count on the experts here at 24/7 Local Electrician . No matter what time of the day or night it is, we’ll send someone out to your home immediately to help you out. Electrical problems can be incredibly dangerous. Because of this, it is crucial that you get them taken care of as quickly as possible. Get in touch with us right away for all your emergency electrical needs.

Should you repair or replace your circuit breaker panel?

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 20:12:00 GMT

A circuit breaker panel controls all of your home’s electricity . When an appliance or outlet stops working, you usually check there to reset the breaker. A simple flip of the switch does the trick, and you can move on with your day.

Sometimes, though, problems get more serious than flipping a switch. If the breaker panel shows damage or starts failing, you should consider having it repaired or replaced. This helps keep your home safe and running. For safety and quality, you should contact an experienced electrician to help .

Signs of Circuit Breaker Panel Problems

You often see signs of damage to your circuit breaker panel. The most obvious is sparking or smoke coming from the unit. Black marks might appear, or you could smell smoke. All of this indicates overheating. If you see it, contact an electrician right away.

Water damage reveals itself as a white, chalky substance in the panel, or as rust or corrosion on the panel or wiring. This damage is more than cosmetic. If water seeps into your breaker panel, it creates significant problems.

Other times you may see the breakers trip more often. Every home has times that you need to flip your breaker back. This means it’s doing its job, but it should not happen all the time. Similarly, if you see flickering lights or the breakers that don’t reset, you have electric issues a professional must address.

Repairs for Your Panel

Many of the issues you see with your breaker panel begin with the wiring. If wires are loose or damaged, it creates problems that require immediate repair. Sometimes it just looks like failing appliances or lights , but you can’t assume that is all it is. Left unchecked, it creates a safety hazard for you and your family.

In many cases, problems with the wiring call for repair rather than replacement. You may need to have an experienced professional rewire the circuit breaker panel, tighten connections, or replace breakers. Even so, you want to get it right. Having a professional do the work protects both you and your home.

When You Need to Replace

Sometimes a repair is not enough. In older homes , the circuit breaker panel may only be designed with 60 amps of power. Your appliances and electric devices require more. Current breaker panels deliver up to 200 amps. If you don’t have enough power, a perfectly-running panel will not get the job done.

Modern panels may be beyond repair as well. Water damage or an electrical surge can fry your breaker panel beyond repair. Once these issues hit, you will probably need to replace the panel.

If you have a Zinsco Panel, it must be replaced. These panels have led to fires and other safety hazards. If you’re unsure about your panel, contact our team of professionals immediately.

Have a Professional Assess Your Panel

When your circuit breaker panel shows signs of failure , you should not wait. It can be tempting to try to do repairs yourself, but unless you are an experienced electrician, you should leave this work to the professionals. You risk damaging your home or seriously injuring yourself when you try to go it alone.

At 24/7 Local Electrician , we have seen it all. Our technicians will come to your home and assess your breaker panel to determine whether you need to repair or replace. We explain the problem and help you understand what needs to happen and why. If you are experiencing problems with your breaker panel, contact us today for a service call .

Electric outlet repair is never a good idea

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 16:31:00 GMT

Electrical outlets are designed to last for many years, but that still doesn’t mean that they can last forever. Over time, you are likely to run into issues with your outlets. Rather than paying to fully replace them, it can be tempting to try electric outlet repair instead. However, this could expose you and your home to all kinds of risk. Keep reading to learn why it is never a good idea to repair electrical outlets .

Risk of Electrocution

Any time you work with electricity, including during electric outlet repair , you put yourself at risk of electrocution. Even if you cut the power to a particular area while you work, there is still the possibility of leftover charge in the wires. While not as severe as full electrocution, this can still deliver quite a shock.

You’ll still be at risk of electrocution after you have finished the electric outlet repair as well. If you weren’t fully sure what you were doing, even tiny mistakes could be disastrous. When you go to turn the power back on and use the outlet, you could electrocute yourself the first time you plug something in.

Greater Chance of Future Problems

If you are unfamiliar with electrical work, there is always the chance that your electric outlet repair won’t be perfect. Even if you follow instructions carefully, there is always the risk that you have made a mistake. This could put you at an even greater risk of electrical problems in the future. The outlet you have repaired is already past its lifespan, so any work you did likely won’t last long anyway.

It is amazing how many electrical fires are caused by shoddy workmanship. Electrical work is a highly specialized task , and it can be incredibly dangerous if you don’t know exactly what you are doing. The last thing you want is to put your home at risk simply to save a few dollars by doing the work yourself. When it comes to electric outlet repair , it is best to leave it to the professionals. Better yet, don’t do it at all and replace the outlet instead.

Missing Out on Modern Technology

One of the biggest reasons not to bother with electric outlet repair is that modern outlets incorporate much better features. Because electrical outlets last so long, any that require repair are likely to be quite old already. Electrical technology is much more advanced now than it was in the past, so newer outlets will be much safer than their predecessors.

If you stick with your old outlets, you’ll be cutting yourself short in terms of safety. Do you really want to put your home and loved ones at risk just to save a few bucks? We didn’t think so. It is definitely worth the added cost to replace your outlets properly rather than attempting to repair a broken one.

Trust the Experts at 24/7 Local Electrician

For help with all your electric outlet repair and replacement needs, you can count on 24/7 Local Electrician . We are proud to work with homeowners and businesses throughout Greater Phoenix. We’ll be happy to help you identify any outlets on your property that are due for replacement. Replacing outlets vs. repairing them will be better for your safety and peace of mind in the long run.

We invite you to reach out to us at any time to learn more about our services . Get in touch today to schedule an appointment for an electrical inspection.

Should you install a ceiling fan yourself?

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 16:40:00 GMT

Adding a ceiling fan to your home is a great way to enhance its appearance and save money on your energy costs. To save even more money, you might be tempted to install a ceiling fan yourself. However, this could set you up for trouble in the future. Here’s why it is better to leave this task to the professionals.

Electrical Work Requires Expertise

Unless your home is already specifically wired for a ceiling fan, you’ll need to run new wires to your chosen destination for your fan. This is a specialized task that should only be done by a licensed electrician .

You May Break Building Codes

If you choose to try to run the wires to install a ceiling fan yourself, you could be going against building codes in your area. Not only can electrical work be dangerous to those who are unfamiliar, but ignoring building codes could negate your homeowner’s insurance policy. If you run into an emergency, your insurance company may deny your claim, forcing you to foot the bill yourself.

Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures Have Different Requirements

You may think that it will be easy to install a ceiling fan where you already have a light fixture. However, the electrical plates required for light fixtures are not strong enough to accommodate ceiling fans. You’ll need to switch them out before you can install a ceiling fan. Many people skip this crucial step, though, which could increase your risk of electrical problems in the future.

Some Ceiling Fans Have Additional Features

In some cases, your ceiling fan might have more advanced features, like dimmers and smart home integrations . These installations typically require additional hardware in order to be able to use the features. Adding these features may complicate the installation process. Hiring a professional will ensure everything works properly.

Avoid the Risk of Electrocution or Electrical Fire

When you are unfamiliar with electrical tasks, you drastically increase your risk of complications. These can include electrocution and electrical fires, potentially causing injury to you or damage to your home. To save yourself and your home the risk, it is better to let a qualified electrician do the work for you.

Lower Possibility of Mistakes

Even if you are as careful as can be when you install a ceiling fan, there is always the possibility of mistakes. If something goes wrong, you could be in for costly repairs to fix any damage. When you work with a professional, they likely back their services with some form of guarantee. If something isn’t quite right, a reputable electrician should remedy the issue for you, without an additional charge.

Added Peace of Mind

Working with a professional electrician will give you the greatest confidence that the ceiling fan installation job has been done correctly. You can take comfort in knowing that your fan will provide air circulation for you for many years to come. If you attempt to do the job yourself, something might go wrong and worrying about this just isn’t worth it. Save yourself the headaches, and just let an experienced technician install your ceiling fan.

You Can Count on 24/7 Local Electrician

When you are ready to install a ceiling fan in your Phoenix home, you can trust our expert team. We have installed countless ceiling fans throughout the valley, so we can install a ceiling fan for you in no time. Our technicians always take great care to ensure your safety and the safety of your home throughout the process. We’ll install your new ceiling fan and double-check that everything is working as it should.

When you work with us, you can expect expert, professional service and friendly customer service. We invite you to get in touch with us today to make an appointment for us to install your ceiling fan. We’ll help you get set up to enjoy that blissful, cool air right away. Call now to get started!

Emergency electrical services in the Phoenix area

Sat, 25 Mar 2023 14:13:00 GMT

Electrical crises don’t always happen at a convenient time. If you could schedule emergency electrical services for tomorrow or the next day between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., it wouldn’t be an “emergency.”

Never Discount the Dangers of Emergency Electrical Services

Almost every electrical issue in a commercial or residential property requires a licensed, experienced electrician. Electrical service and maintenance is hazardous. You don’t want to expose your family – or an inexperienced technician – to the risks of emergency electrical services.

In July, utility company APS (Arizona Public Service) lost one of its long-time electrical professionals and another was injured. While replacing a cable in downtown Phoenix, an electrical flash caused the fire that killed one worker and sent another to the hospital.

This sad event served as a reminder to Maricopa County businesses and homeowners: Working with electricity is never a DIY (do-it-yourself) job.

7 Commonly Requested Emergency Electrical Services

A loss of light is inconvenient. An air conditioning outage can be hazardous to older adults and small children; it’s not something Arizonians take lightly.

No one is thrilled about making an emergency service request. In a power outage, your first task is to determine if the problem is a neighborhood issue. If not, here are 7 common reasons most people call for emergency electrical services :

Local Electrician for 24/7 Phoenix Emergency Electrical Services

Your safety is important every day, all day. If you have an electrical emergency, you can’t wait for business hours. 24/7 Local Electrician will act on your electrical emergency 24/7. Our first responders will secure your home until damage repairs or wiring replacements can be made later.

Add this entry to your cellphone contacts:
Emergency Electric (833) 220-2525

To learn more about electric emergency services in Maricopa County, contact 24/7 Local Electrician today.

Is there such a thing as an affordable electrician?

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 04:41:00 GMT

Have you ever searched for a cheaper surgeon when faced with major surgery? If your home is the heart of your family, then electricity is its lifeblood . There exists a perception that electricians are expensive. Most people, when looking for an “affordable” electrician, are really looking for one that is… cheap!

You can find an affordable electrician , but hiring a cheap, inexperienced, unlicensed electrician can cost much more in the long run.

An ‘Affordable Electrician’ Can Be a Costly Mistake

Every business is competitive, but there are property-specific areas in which less is… well… less. Plumbing, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) and electrical wiring are areas where safety and health should drive decision making.

An unscrupulous but affordable electrician may surprise you with hidden costs later.

Sometimes the electrician is honest, and those additional expenses really are a surprise. Trust us, it does happen for legitimate reasons.

However, with inexperienced contractors, that didn’t know how to price the job in the first place, those “ extra charges ” could be the result of them purposely underbidding the work. Just because their quote is cheaper upfront, doesn’t mean it won’t cost you more in the long run – sometimes much more!

Some Horror Stories Are Real

You may have heard scary stories about expensive repairs due to inexperienced electrical work. “Unlicensed contractors can cost you,” says Angie’s List. And it’s not all about money.

According to Angie’s List, an Ohio plumber bumped into an ungrounded fluorescent light while working in a Cincinnati home. He was holding a copper pipe. Because the light was installed by an unlicensed electrician, it wasn’t properly grounded. This electric work was likely cheaper than other quotes they received, and in the end, someone was seriously hurt.

The Cincinnati electrical contractor later hired to complete the job said it was a sobering reminder: Shoddy work performed by an unlicensed but “affordable” electrician can cost a lot more.

Hidden Costs? Be Concerned About Hidden Dangers

Your local electrical contractor should be licensed and a recognized member of your community. Before beginning any work, he or she will inspect your home for hidden dangers. More importantly, your local electrical contractor won’t leave any dangers behind. Your family and pets shouldn’t be in jeopardy in your home.

You Can Look for Hidden Dangers

You know many of the clues your electrician may not be as professional or experienced as you deserve. A white, unmarked van pulls into your driveway and an unprofessional looking electrician comes to your door. Is this an affordable electrician? Perhaps, but that’s your first clue this is not the electrical contractor you need.

You can search for some hidden dangers yourself. Look for:

If you spot any electrical dangers, contact a reputable, Maricopa County licensed electrician.

24/7 Local Electrician is The One

There’s only one electrical contracting company with A+ and a 5-star rating in Phoenix, AZ. This affordable electrician is accredited for almost 10 years with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). 24/7 Local Electrician is the one!

Remember, you get what you pay for, so get the most experienced, licensed electricians in your community. Our company culture is built on integrity – and safety first. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician and ask how we can help you with knowledgeable (and affordable) electrical work for your home or commercial property.

Why a cheap electrician may not be right for you

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 18:37:00 GMT

When Joni and Carwyn moved to their first “new” home, they were eager to be diligent homeowners. The community had a presence on a popular website for neighborhoods, so Joni posted they didn’t have enough outlets in their older home. She asked others if there was such a thing as a “ cheap electrician ” in their upscale, historical area.

Neighbors Have Good Intentions, But…

Needing more electrical outlets was on their wish list and they didn’t really need them, so saving money was a priority. Several local Phoenix-area electricians were recommended. One post caught Joni’s eyes: “Good and very affordable! They rewired our whole house in record time at half the price of other estimates!”

Buyer Beware

Arizona allows unlicensed electricians to work for you if their bill is under $1,000. It’s called the “handyman” exemption. How can they do the same quality work for almost half the price?

Some handymen don’t pay for liability or workers’ compensation insurance. They don’t belong to professional organizations, and they may not be involved in the community. They don’t invest in continuing education for themselves or their employees. Some work for “cash only,” to dodge income taxes, and they are not licensed in Arizona.

That’s how a “handyman” can work as a cheap electrician.

Unlicensed Electricians Are More of a Risk; Is It Worth It?

Are you a gambler? The best that can happen when using an unlicensed, cheap electrician is nothing. Your project is completed in a timely and affordable way. The worst-case scenario is the loss of life in a house fire. Electrical fires are difficult to control and extinguish. Then there are the “What-can-go-wrongs?” in-between.

4 Ways to Avoid Cheap Electrician Pitfalls

You assume risks when you hire a cheap electrician or any unlicensed contractor , for that matter. Here are 4 ways to avoid the problems you may encounter when hiring a not-so-handy person:

Phoenix Homeowners Are Smart

If you own property in the Phoenix, Arizona area, you already understand the advantages of investing in this prosperous area of the U.S. Why would you jeopardize what is likely the biggest investment – and asset – you own?

Joni and Carwyn decided not to take the risk. They called 24/7 Local Electrician and requested a quote from a licensed electrical contractor. The couple appreciated that 24/7 Local Electrician is licensed, bonded, and insured. They knew they were hiring the right electrical contractor for their home project and that they would be protected every step of the way .

GFCI outlet repair when it keeps tripping

Sat, 18 Mar 2023 18:49:00 GMT

The bathroom in your Phoenix home is likely one of your most commonly used rooms. In fact, you probably have several electronic devices in it. From electric shavers to hair dryers to curling irons, you’ve got a lot of devices that could potentially fall into the sink, exposing you to the risk of electrocution. Without a properly working GFCI outlet , you could be in big trouble if one of your devices gets wet. GFCI outlet repair isn’t a DIY project.

GFCI, or ground fault circuit interrupter, outlets are common in homes , particularly in areas that see a lot of moisture. Your Phoenix home likely has these types of outlets in the kitchen, bathrooms, and garage. Whenever the outlet detects a power anomaly, like in cases of electrocution, it shuts down the power to the outlet for your safety. However, these types of outlets can sometimes trip unnecessarily, which can be frustrating and annoying.

Just because your GFCI outlet keeps tripping doesn’t necessarily mean that you are in danger. It could simply be that there is a minor problem in or around the outlet. Here’s what to watch out for and how to know when it is time to call an electrician for GFCI outlet repair.

Common GFCI Outlet Issues

While there are many reasons your GFCI outlet might trip, frequent issues tend to fall into four primary categories:

If there is a problem with your GFCI outlets, don’t try to fix the problem yourself. Electrical work is risky, so you should always call a professional electrician for GFCI outlet repair.

Test Your GFCI Outlets Today

When you are in need of GFCI outlet repair in the Greater Phoenix area, you can trust 24/7 Local Electrician . Our expert technicians can identify the problem quickly and get your outlets back up and running right away. Get in touch with our team today for all your GFCI outlet repair and other electrical needs.

9 house wiring things you need to know

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 20:04:00 GMT

Electrical mistakes can easily happen with DIY projects involving house wiring. If ignored, they have the potential to cause short circuits, shocks, and even fires. Keep the following in mind, and have a professional handle your electrical projects .

House Wiring Is Highly Dangerous

The wiring throughout your house is powerful enough to hurt you and cause life-threatening injuries. The professionals at 24/7 Local Electrician know to shut off the power before doing any type of electrical work. This helps lower the risk of electrical shocks and other injuries.

Electrical Circuits

Your home has different types of electrical circuits installed that serve different purposes. Some circuits provide power for your lights, and others provide power for your outlets. Major appliances, such as your HVAC system or dishwasher, have a dedicated circuit. This helps lower the risk of having too much power going to one circuit in your home.

Wire Sizes in House Wiring

House wiring comes in different sizes. When working with wiring, professionals always make sure that they’re using the correct size. Using the wrong size wiring can increase the risk of fires and other serious electrical problems or result in not enough power going to an outlet or other electrical fixture .

Additional Circuits

In some cases, electrical work involves adding another circuit to your breaker panel. For example, your home might need a dedicated circuit added for a new appliance. Professionals can handle this properly to ensure that new circuits are safely added , which lowers the risk of fires.

Wiring Installations

Installing wiring for a new light switch, light fixture, outlet or other electrical fixture is generally a straightforward task. However, there are still serious risks associated with even simple wiring installations. From knowing which wiring to use to determining the correct size, you should let the professionals take care of these tasks.

House Wiring Electrical Codes

Being familiar with local electrical codes is an important part of working with house wiring, especially for larger projects. Not following these codes can increase the risk of electrical problems and make your home unsafe. The professional electricians from 24/7 Local Electrician know all about local electrical codes and always follow them when doing electrical work.

Circuit Breakers

Circuit breakers stop circuits from becoming overloaded and starting fires. They come in different sizes, and it’s important to make sure the right size wire is connected to the right size circuit breaker. Otherwise, you can end up with a high risk of fire or a breaker that frequently trips.

Hot, Neutral and Ground Wires

Black wiring in your home is known as hot wiring, while white wires are considered neutral ones. Ground wires are bare copper wires. These wires need to be connected properly in order for circuits to properly function. If this doesn’t happen, you can end up with an electrical short.

Electrical Tools for House Wiring

Doing electrical work involves using the right tools for the job. The wrong tools could damage your house wiring, which raises the risk of electrical shock or fires. Professionals have the proper tools for any type of electrical work.

If your Phoenix home needs some electrical work, leave it to the professionals. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician today .

Is an electrician apprenticeship right for you?

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 15:10:00 GMT

The electrical industry is a busy field that offers plenty of job opportunities. Because people and businesses all across the country and around the world need electricity, you’ll be able to find a job wherever you are. It is a highly specialized field, though, so you’ll need a proper education to get started. An electrician apprenticeship presents a great opportunity to learn on the job. This will give you the practical skills you need to be successful in your career. Here’s what you need to know.

How an Electrician Apprenticeship Works

When you get an electrician apprenticeship job, you’ll be working under a qualified electrician, acting as a helper. You’ll visit customer sites alongside your mentor, learning from them as you go. You’ll have the chance to see an electrician in action , giving you an inside look at what the job is really like.

As you learn and progress, you’ll have the chance to begin taking on basic tasks yourself. Over time, you can work up to more challenging jobs as your skills improve. The goal of an electrician apprenticeship is to give you the knowledge you’ll need to safely perform as an electrician. Then, you’ll be able to become an electrician in your own right.

The Difference Between an Electrician Apprenticeship and Traditional Education

Rather than going through an electrician apprenticeship , you also have the option of attending a technical school. This is another popular route for becoming an electrician and some apprenticeship programs may require it. However, while you’ll still gain the knowledge you need, you won’t get the hands-on knowledge of actually working in the field.

One of the key benefits of an electrician apprenticeship is that you get to see first-hand what the job is actually like. This will make it much easier to determine whether the job is a good fit for you. In addition, you’ll be getting paid for your work while you go through your electrician apprenticeship rather than having to pay for your education. This can make it significantly easier to support yourself financially while you are still learning.

Job Opportunities after an Electrician Apprenticeship

Another important benefit of working in an electrician apprenticeship is that you may be able to continue working for the same company after you graduate. This saves you from having to go out and find a job. Even if you choose to move to a different organization, you’ll have plenty of experience to help you stand out from other candidates.

Electrician jobs tend to fall into two categories: residential and commercial. As a residential electrician , you’ll assist homeowners with their electrical needs. Common tasks include replacing outlets , repairing and upgrading wiring, installing new wiring, and setting up appliances and light fixtures. Of course, there are many other things clients may need you to do, but those are some of the most common.

Commercial electricians need to have all of the same skills as residential electricians, and then some. Because commercial electrical systems tend to be much larger and more complex, you’ll need to refine your skills even further to work in commercial settings. As this type of work is more specialized, though, the pay tends to be higher as well, so it is worth the extra effort.

Start Working in the Electrical Field

Here at 24/7 Local Electrician , we are proud to take on electrician apprentices. We welcome you to get in touch with us to apply to become a valued member of our team. Reach out to us today to learn more about our current opportunities.

Baby proofing your Phoenix home

Sun, 12 Mar 2023 19:31:00 GMT

Electricity is essential to your home , but it can also be hazardous to your children. That is why baby proofing Phoenix homes is so important. It really isn’t difficult at all to accomplish and won’t cause more than minor inconveniences to your lifestyle. Here’s what you need to do.

Cover All Electrical Outlets

The first step to baby proofing Phoenix homes is to protect your outlets. You can find electrical outlet covers at any baby or home improvement store. Some are inexpensive and easy to install. However, the traditional outlet covers can be taken out by little hands and could present a choking hazard.

While the outlet covers may work, they don’t actively work on their own. They require you to remember to put them back in and they can be bypassed by simply removing them.

A better option is to upgrade your home to include tamper-resistant outlets . They include a small piece of plastic built into the outlet that only moves when a two-pronged plug is plugged in. A screwdriver or bobby pin won’t be able to bypass these types of outlets. While they are individually quite inexpensive a professional should install them.

Keep Electrical Cords Out of Sight

If you need to run any electrical cords across the floor, it is important to cover them whenever possible. This will minimize the risk of you or your children tripping over them. This can also send your electronic devices crashing to the floor, so it is in your best interest to prevent that from happening.

In addition, small children can inadvertently wrap cords around their necks, potentially leading to the risk of strangulation. Install cord covers when baby proofing your Phoenix home so that the cords lie flat against the floor, or bind them up tightly with a rubber band or cord keeper. The fewer exposed cords you have, the safer your kids will be.

If you find yourself using extension cords regularly in your home, it may be time to install a few new outlets or electrical circuits.

Unplug Any Devices That Are Not in Use

Kids are remarkably resourceful and will try to use your electronic devices. They likely see you using them and want to imitate your behaviors. Whenever you are not using a particular device, unplug it from the wall so your little ones can’t 24/7 Local Electrician . Be sure to tuck the cord back behind the device so they can’t use it to pull the device down. Not only will this keep your kids safer, but it can also help prevent wasting electricity on devices that are not needed. This can help you save on your energy costs , freeing up more money in your budget for fun activities with your children.

Keep Your Outlets and Wiring in Good Repair

Faulty outlets and deteriorated wiring can expose your home to the risk of electrical fires and power failures. They can also pose a risk to your children, so keeping them in good shape is crucial to baby proofing Phoenix homes. If you suspect any problems with your outlets or wiring, have a qualified electrician inspect and repair them for you. It is incredibly dangerous to try to do electrical work yourself, so leave this task to a professional. Aim to have your electrical system inspected about once a year to ensure everything is safe and reliable.

Get More Help with Baby Proofing Phoenix Homes

Of course, nothing keeps your kids safe like parent supervision, but it is virtually impossible to keep your eyes on them every second of the day. This is especially true if you have multiple kids.

If you would like even more tips for baby proofing your Phoenix home, you can count on 24/7 Local Electrician . Our expert electricians can help you identify any potential dangers in your home and advise you as to how to fix them. We want to help you keep your kids as safe as possible, so don’t be shy about getting in touch with us to schedule an appointment .

Adding kitchen pendant lighting to your home

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 20:03:00 GMT

Your kitchen is one of the most-used rooms in your home , so you’ll want to make it look its best. An easy way to do this is by adding kitchen pendant lighting. Not only will this help you see what you are doing, but it also adds beauty and style to the space. Here’s what you need to know to choose the best kitchen pendant lighting for your home.

Types of Kitchen Pendant Lighting

When it comes to pendant lighting for your kitchen, you’ll have a lot of options to choose from. This lighting style comes in a broad range of sizes and aesthetics to complement virtually any decorative scheme.

For starters, you’ll find lights ranging in size from small to large. To choose the best size for your kitchen, pay attention to not just the size of the room, but also the ceiling height and counter heights. The lights you choose should be large enough to command attention. However, they should not be so large as to overpower the space or get in the way while you are cooking.

Once you have narrowed down your choices by size, you can move on to selecting the overall style. Just like other types of decor, you’ll find pendant lighting to suit contemporary, rustic, classic, elegant, sculptural and many other styles of decor. Take cues from the rest of your home to guide your style choices.

Finally, you’ll get to choose the color or finish of your kitchen pendant lighting. Look for lights that complement the rest of your kitchen decor. For example, if you have stainless steel appliances, you’ll likely want light fixtures in a similar finish. If you have chosen a bold accent color in your kitchen, try to find pendant lights that incorporate that hue as well to keep everything looking cohesive.

Benefits of Kitchen Pendant Lighting

Of course, the key benefit of pendant lighting in your kitchen is that it makes it easier to shine some light on the task at hand. Typically, you’ll want to hang your lights directly over a countertop, like a kitchen island, peninsula counter, or breakfast bar. This way, the lights will be right overhead, shining down on your counter space.

In general, kitchens don’t have much space for decor, as you’ll want to keep your workspace clear for prepping food. With pendant lighting, you’ll have a unique opportunity to inject some decorative style and flair into your kitchen. This will keep it from looking too bland and boring. Look for lights that are visually interesting to have the biggest impact.

You can also use lighting to set the mood in your kitchen. This is especially beneficial if you enjoy entertaining or have dining space in your kitchen area. Many modern pendant lights are dimmer compatible , letting you customize the lighting to your liking throughout the evening. To create a fun atmosphere, try using colored light bulbs or smart bulbs that allow you to change the color of the light.

Add Kitchen Pendant Lighting to Your Home

To add pendant lighting to your kitchen, you’ll need the services of a qualified electrician. Your technician can install any necessary wiring in your ceiling to power the lights and ensure that everything is working properly. This includes setting up any additional features, like dimmers and smart light bulbs.

At 24/7 Local Electrician , we have helped countless Phoenix homeowners install pendant lighting and other types of light fixtures in kitchens and throughout their homes. We’ll handle all of the complicated electrical work for you, saving you from the risk of electric shock. Call today to schedule an appointment .

What makes a great commercial electrical contractor?

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 14:08:00 GMT

If you’re a homeowner and have a new-build project or renovation plans for your good old house, you will need a residential electrical contractor. Other types of professional electricians include industrial electrical and/or commercial electrical contractors .

An industrial electrical contractor is a commercial electrician that works in sensitive and complicated environments such as factories and medical facilities. Industrial electricians use the same implementations as commercial applications. For example, they both work with 3-phase power and electrical metal conduit (EMT) but industrial electrician applications are generally more complicated.

Business property owners face unique challenges. Their companies can be located in modern architectural structures or older-era buildings. When picking a commercial electrical contractor , there are many things to consider.

Today’s Commercial Electrical Contractor

Technology is revolutionizing every industry in our country . A good commercial electrical contractor will have working knowledge and experience involving technological trends in electrical services.

For example, energy-saving LED lighting is something commercial property owners and managers know about: LED lighting saves money.

A commercial electrical contractor knows more.

It’s not your grandfather’s electrical wiring and lighting. It’s not even your mother’s. LED optics, light control systems , quality, and thermal engineering changed last year. They’ll continue to evolve this year.

Always ask what’s new.

Integrated technology (IT) is having an increasing impact on commercial lighting development. In fact, replacing components for electrical and lighting systems now offers advanced choices. Your Maricopa County commercial electrical contractor can offer the best choices available.

Another trending electrical technology for commercial properties is full-spectrum lighting. It’s more frequently used in offices and medical properties. Full spectrum lighting :

The Best Commercial Electrical Contractor Knows Where You Live

Your local commercial electrical contractor understands the business market for your area. What do your competitors’ fixtures feature for employees and customers? What are specific requirements for commercial electrical wiring for your state, county, city?

Connected lighting does more than meet code. It opens the door to bring smart sensors and the Internet of Things (IoT)…because most of this advanced technology is installed through light fixtures. – David Wilts, Digital Masterplanning

“Smart buildings” aren’t being constructed or converted to virtual electricity as fast as we thought. Are you in a position to develop a flagship commercial property in Arizona? Your electrical contractor can partner with you for unique, business-specific, long-term energy savings.

Important Qualities

A great commercial electrical contractor understands large buildings’ power requirements. Up-to-date knowledge of technological trends to better power your business is important too.

Your commercial electrical company should:

Local: Superior Arizona Electrical Contractor Services

You have high standards for your employees. You want a culture of superior customer-service delivery and quality of work. That’s the kind of business 24/7 Local Electrician of Phoenix strives to be.

We support our local community and have the highest possible HomeAdvisor ratings. Local is the electrical contractor the other electricians call when they need answers. Contact us to learn more.

Electrician certification and what it means to you

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 01:00:00 GMT

Licensed contractors value themselves and their work. States vary, but Arizona requires licensing for electrical contractors. Contractors may choose to specialize in either residential or commercial work. The only way to know is to ask. Since an individual isn’t licensed in Arizona, it may be important to know who they are sending out to do the work, and if they have the knowledge to complete it safely. While electrician certification exists in Arizona, not everyone is certified.

The Difference: ‘Licensed’ vs. Electrician Certification

In many situations, “licensed” means an individual or company has permission from the state to work in that state. It’s an important business requirement. All electrical contractors in Arizona must have a valid license.

A certified individual has completed the needed prerequisites to deliver superior quality-of-work. Electrician certification means your electrical professional has the “ level-specific ” knowledge and experience – both are important – to manage your electrical project.

The certification program is an apprenticeship. It is generally a 4-year program, and the student is an Apprentice while in the program. They are required to work as an electrician while going to school, which gives them the ability to practice what they have learned, making sure the education sticks.

Once they graduate, they have a Journeyman certificate and are referred to as a Journeyman. Because Arizona does not require this, many individuals refer to themselves as Journeymen because they have a lot of experience. While experience is great, a structured education program like an Apprenticeship can fill in all the little holes that experience alone won’t.

Why You Should Ask if Your Technician Has a Journeyman Certification

The difference between an experienced electrician and a Journeyman certification is knowledge and experience. Classroom-learning and on-the-job training are both critical factors for electrician certification.

Here’s a good example: Most of us hold an Arizona driver’s license. We have learned enough to pass a basic written and driving test. To qualify for a commercial driver’s license (CDL), you must have more in-depth knowledge of roadways, vehicular dynamics, and emergencies.

Certification takes time. It’s worth the professional investment. That’s why cheap electricians can be an expensive lesson. The price may be “right,” but it can come at a cost.

As a residential or commercial property owner, you probably cannot afford expensive mistakes. Unlicensed electrical technicians that have not earned certification rarely have the training or experience needed to fulfill your work requirements.

Electrical Contractor License

The Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC) requires an electrical contractor to have an up-to-date electrical contractor license. Always ask for proof your electrician has a 6-digit Arizona license.

A licensed electrical contractor has four or more years of industry knowledge and experience within the last ten years. That’s important because technology has had an incredible impact on this industry. There are technology changes and upgrades every year. Property owners need an electric professional knowledgeable about options available today.

24/7 Local Electrician LLC holds Arizona CR-Electrical License 265179 , which is good for both residential and commercial projects. If you have problems or would like to plan a project, we’re an excellent company to work with. Contact us (24/7) if you have questions.

Are you interested in a rewarding professional career with a dynamic company? Once again, we’re a great company to work with, and our reviews prove it.

Benefits of over and under cabinet lights

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 01:02:00 GMT

In many areas of your Phoenix home, the lighting you choose is all about creating a mood. However, in creating a lighting design, many people overlook the kitchen. Just because the room needs to be functional doesn’t mean that it can’t also be beautiful. Adding over- or under-cabinet lights can make a huge difference in the overall appearance of your kitchen. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of these unique lighting styles.

Benefits of Under-Cabinet Lights

Under-cabinet lights are the more common of the two varieties, so you have likely seen them in home design magazines or when visiting a friend’s house. This type of lighting fits underneath the bottom of your kitchen cabinets, shining downwards onto the countertops. In most cases, you won’t be able to see the fixtures unless you look up underneath the cabinets. This creates a sleek look and eliminates the need to match the lights to the rest of your decor.

Many Phoenix homeowners choose under-cabinet lights to provide additional task lighting when preparing and cooking food. While many kitchens have built-in overhead lighting, this type of lighting often creates harsh shadows. Not only that, but overhead lights can also be much brighter than you might want if you were entertaining guests. In this scenario, you’d likely want lighting that is a bit more unobtrusive to create a relaxed, festive vibe.

With under-cabinet lighting, you’ll get light exactly where you need it without overpowering the rest of the room. This way, you and your guests can relax and enjoy yourselves with minimal glare and shadows. You can even find varieties with dimmer switches , allowing you to customize the lighting design even further to suit your mood.

Benefits of Over-Cabinet Lights

While not as common as under-cabinet lighting, over-cabinet lights are growing in popularity. This type of lighting is strictly for decorative purposes, as it won’t shed light on your kitchen counters. Of course, you’ll need to have enough space above your cabinets to accommodate the lights and give them plenty of room to shine. In general, you’ll want to have about a foot of space to get the greatest effect.

You can find over-cabinet lighting in a variety of styles, and you can choose various colors for the bulbs as well. This way, you can complement your existing decor while also creating a festive atmosphere for entertaining. As with under-cabinet lights, you shouldn’t be able to see the light fixtures above your cabinets when they are installed properly. Dimmer switches are available in this category as well.

To truly get the most out of over-cabinet lighting , it is also a good idea to add some decorative pieces above your cabinets. Real or artificial plants work well, as do large, colored vases, plates and similar items that are at home in kitchens. Because the lights will be showcasing these pieces, be sure to dust and clean them regularly. The last thing you want is for your over-cabinet lighting to draw attention to cobwebs or a layer of dust.

Let the Professionals Handle the Install

To avoid having wires running down to your countertops and taking up valuable kitchen outlets, you’ll likely want to have your over- or under-cabinet lighting hardwired into your home. Electrical work can be dangerous, so it is best to let a professional handle this for you. Here at 24/7 Local Electrician , we are experts in installing over- and under-cabinet lighting, as well as a variety of other lighting styles. Reach out to us today to request a free quote.

How Security Lights and Motion Sensors Keep You Safe at Home

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 01:02:00 GMT

Urban dwellers are aware of the risks associated with their living locations . Suburbanites are vigilant too. Hopefully, you feel safe in your home and neighborhood. So do you really need security lights and/or motion sensors?

Security Lights Enhance Quality of Life

Wanting to be able to see what’s going on in your yard isn’t necessarily “fear.” It’s just good sense. If you have aging family members or friends, security lights and motion detectors can illuminate their paths from car-to-door. It’s a great safety feature.

Wandering wildlife can be a pleasure to view but also destructive. Security lights and motion sensors can keep them at a safe distance. You can also reduce energy usage with motion sensors. Your all-night front porch light can be “off” until activated.

Types of Security Lights and Sensors

Lights with cameras are becoming more popular, especially during the holiday gifting season. More front-porch-package hijackers and their license plates were filmed this year than ever before.

The top outdoor security cameras for 2020 are:

All offer some degree of night vision. Fields-of-view range from 69°-180°. The Amcrest and Arlo Ultra cameras offer the best resolution (3840 x 2160). They are also among the priciest.

Motion Sensor Activated Lighting

Motion detectors with lights are another good choice for your property. If you live on a low-traffic street , a security light motion sensor can be a welcome addition to your home. But in a high-traffic area, it’s like having a strobe light on your front porch.

Motion detectors are usually wired into your home security system and connected to a monitoring center. Your concerns might include:

Choose a motion sensor that provides what you need:

24/7 Local Electrician Protects Your Investment

Simple home security systems without lights (bells or buzzer systems) can be DIY (do-it-yourself)-mounted. They are usually battery-operated and you simply need to monitor the batteries. Most don’t consider them very effective.

The circuitry for even a “small” home security system can be complicated. “It’s more than drilling holes and running wires,” says Reviews.org.

If you want security lights and motion sensors, consider it an investment that will increase the value of your property. Get a good system. Then contact your local electrician for installation.

In the Phoenix-area, 24/7 Local Electrician is your affordable, trusted source for home security system installation. Contact us to learn more.

Does the lighting color in my home matter?

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 01:02:00 GMT

Have you ever replaced a chandelier or pendant light bulb? You notice what appears to be the exact same bulb emits a yellowish glow. And it contrasts starkly with the bright-white light bulbs you have in place. There’s actually a science to matching lighting color.

You may understand wattage. Wattage is the amount of energy ( electricity ) each light bulb consumes. The wattage impacts the brightness of the light.

“Kelvin” (K) is a way to measure lighting color – its temperature – in degrees. Kelvin temperatures can range from 1,000-10,000. Lighting applications for homes and businesses commonly use 2000K to 6500K.

Lighting Color Sets the Tone

Your light fixtures and their installation should reflect a room’s purpose. Different types of lighting include:

Interior decorating pros understand which kelvin temperature you need. This is how you can set the mood in each room.

Kelvins and Colors

Choose the kelvin temperature to set the tone for each room:

Choose Lighting to Reinforce Every Room’s Purpose

Studies show yellowish lighting is an invitation to take a nap. An office setting is one of productivity; energy. “Anything below 3500K will make your employees less productive,” says Modern Place. They recommend 4500K for maximum productivity.

Some rooms can use more or fewer kelvin to energize or enhance relaxation. Once you begin investigating, you will see the difference between 2000K and 6500K.

Recommendations for residential lighting color treatments by-room include:

2000K-3000K

3100K-4500K

4600K-6500K

You should avoid mixing-and-matching room lighting. Every light in your kitchen should be the same kelvins and wattage. Your living room should have a more relaxing feel. But every room’s light applications should be consistent.

If you want to set two moods in one room (your home office for example), try this: Use 5000K overhead lighting for work. Later that day you may want to take a break and relax in a comfortable chair. Turn off the task-oriented overhead lighting. Turn on the 3000K floor lamp in your reading corner.

“I put 3500K LED in my kitchen and hated it. Then I tried 3000K and to me, it was too ‘cold’ looking,” said a Phoenix homeowner . “I found 2700K Feit bulbs were what worked.”

24/7 Local Electrician Offers Professional Installation

The quality of lighting color in your commercial or residential property is critical. Proper lighting can add the appearance of space, set a mood, increase functionality, and boost your property’s resell value.

Before you tackle any electrical installation, check with your local professionals at 24/7 Local Electrician . DIY (do-it-yourself) mistakes can be costly and dangerous to your property and loved ones. When you have questions, we want to offer solutions.

Make the most of the season by following these simple guidelines

Turnkeyinc1@Gmail.com (Magenta SEO) — Mon, 02 May 2022 17:45:01 GMT

The new season is a great reason to make and keep resolutions. Whether it’s eating right or cleaning out the garage, here are some tips for making and keeping resolutions.

Make a list

Lists are great ways to stay on track. Write down some big things you want to accomplish and some smaller things, too.

Check the list regularly

Don’t forget to check in and see how you’re doing. Just because you don’t achieve the big goals right away doesn’t mean you’re not making progress.

Reward yourself

When you succeed in achieving a goal, be it a big one or a small one, make sure to pat yourself on the back.

Think positively

Positive thinking is a major factor in success. So instead of mulling over things that didn’t go quite right, remind yourself of things that did.

Keep in touch with site visitors and boost loyalty

Turnkeyinc1@Gmail.com (Magenta SEO) — Sun, 01 May 2022 17:45:01 GMT

There are so many good reasons to communicate with site visitors. Tell them about sales and new products or update them with tips and information.

Here are some reasons to make blogging part of your regular routine.

Blogging is an easy way to engage with site visitors

Writing a blog post is easy once you get the hang of it. Posts don’t need to be long or complicated. Just write about what you know, and do your best to write well.

Show customers your personality

When you write a blog post, you can really let your personality shine through. This can be a great tool for showing your distinct personality.

Blogging is a terrific form of communication

Blogs are a great communication tool. They tend to be longer than social media posts, which gives you plenty of space for sharing insights, handy tips and more.

It’s a great way to support and boost SEO

Search engines like sites that regularly post fresh content, and a blog is a great way of doing this. With relevant metadata for every post so search engines can find your content.

Drive traffic to your site

Every time you add a new post, people who have subscribed to it will have a reason to come back to your site. If the post is a good read, they’ll share it with others, bringing even more traffic!

Blogging is free

Maintaining a blog on your site is absolutely free. You can hire bloggers if you like or assign regularly blogging tasks to everyone in your company.

A natural way to build your brand

A blog is a wonderful way to build your brand’s distinct voice. Write about issues that are related to your industry and your customers.

Tips for writing great posts that increase your site traffic

Turnkeyinc1@Gmail.com (Magenta SEO) — Sun, 01 May 2022 17:44:56 GMT

Write about something you know. If you don’t know much about a specific topic that will interest your readers, invite an expert to write about it.

Speak to your audience

You know your audience better than anyone else, so keep them in mind as you write your blog posts. Write about things they care about. If you have a company Facebook page, look here to find topics to write about

Take a few moments to plan your post

Once you have a great idea for a post, write the first draft. Some people like to start with the title and then work on the paragraphs. Other people like to start with subtitles and go from there. Choose the method that works for you.

Don’t forget to add images

Be sure to include a few high-quality images in your blog. Images break up the text and make it more readable. They can also convey emotions or ideas that are hard to put into words.

Edit carefully before posting

Once you’re happy with the text, put it aside for a day or two, and then re-read it. You’ll probably find a few things you want to add, and a couple more that you want to remove. Have a friend or colleague look it over to make sure there are no mistakes. When your post is error-free, set it up in your blog and publish.

Are ungrounded outlets safe?

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 15:00:00 GMT

4 Reasons Why Ungrounded Outlets Are Unsafe

Ungrounded outlets are susceptible to electrical shorts or arcing. (Electrical “arcing” is when an electrical current “jumps” or flashes from one connection to another. These electrical arcs can reach temperatures of 35,000°F and will burn insulation or wood framing.)

Ungrounded outlets can cause:

Electricity is negatively charged, so it always tries to flow to the positively charged earth using whatever source is available. If the nearest source is you, you’ll receive a shock. Grounded outlets can prevent this from happening.

Do I Have Ungrounded Outlets? Can I Ground Them?

GFCI outlets are ground-fault circuit interrupters. They monitor the flow of electricity and alert you immediately if there’s a problem. We measure electrical flow in amperes and milliamperes. If there’s an inconsistency in electrical current that is more than 5 milliamperes, a GFCI will trip the power source.

Since 1962, the National Electrical Code (NEC) has required grounded outlets. Most older homes that have been bought and sold since then have been inspected and their ungrounded outlets replaced and rewired.

If your good old house has ungrounded outlets, you can’t simply buy a new 3-prong outlet and replace the old 2-prong outlet. The only safe way to ground an ungrounded outlet is to rewire the circuit following NEC standards.

To determine if your home has any ungrounded outlets, examine all electrical plug-ins. If it has only 2 prong holes, it is ungrounded. If a plug-in has three receptacles (prongs), it doesn’t mean it’s grounded. In fact, an ungrounded 3-prong outlet increases the risk of shock or electrocution. If you use this outlet for electronics, they can be power-surge damaged or destroyed.

Why Replace Ungrounded Outlets?

Speak with a qualified electrician to confirm if you should replace ungrounded 2-prong outlets that are working properly. You can still buy ungrounded outlets. But with today’s electronics, your home’s wiring won’t be able to keep up with the demand.

You are required to have GFCI outlets in:

You can tell if GFCI outlets are working correctly by using the test button on them before you use an electrical device. The button should shut the power to the outlet off if it’s working correctly. If your GFCI doesn’t have the test button, that means it could be a spin-off of another, primary GFCI outlet.

For information about ungrounded outlets and replacements, contact 24/7 Local electrician.

Preventing electrical fires: 7 ways

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 15:00:00 GMT

Preventing Electrical Fires at Home

Home fires are heartbreaking. Here are several methods for preventing electrical fires :

1. Don’t Use Damaged Power Cords

If a device has a cracked, frayed, or loosened power cord, have it repaired or toss it. But don’t plug it in again.

2. Extension Cords Are Not Permanent

Any time you use an extension cord, it should be for a specific project with a measurable timeframe. If you’re using an extension cord to power appliances or electronics, contact your local electrician to discuss safer options.

3. Heed Warning Signs

There are indicators you’ve got an electrical problem or risk. If you ignore those warning signs, you’re putting your home and family at risk. Some warning signs are:

4. Never Cut Off or Remove the Third Prong

If you have ungrounded outlets (2-prong receptacles) in your Tucson or Phoenix home, you need to request an electrical upgrade for safety reasons. But never, ever remove or cut off that third prong on a plug-in. It’s there for preventing electrical fires from power surges or malfunctions.

5. Read Appliance Directions and Follow Them

Before you toss your new washing machine’s instruction manual in a drawer, read it. There may be valid warnings for preventing electrical fires. There may also be information about registering online for product recalls or dangers that are revealed months or years later.

6. Stop Vampires

An energy vampire is any plugged-in appliance that continues to use power from an electrical outlet, even when idle or turned off. It’s understandable if you can’t unplug an intricately pre-programmed electronic (like your television) every time it’s not in use. But your toaster, gaming device, blender, hairdryer, charging plugs, and more can be unplugged.

Make a list of plugged-in appliances in every room. Ask yourself:

If you answered yes to any question, that appliance is an energy vampire. Heat-producing appliances especially (like toasters and curling irons) can overheat when plugged in for long periods of time.

7. Update Your Wiring

Good old houses are wonderful in design and aesthetics. But some historical elements should be updated, especially old wiring.

If you see behind-the-scenes electrical wires running through porcelain tubes, it’s called “knob-and-tube” wiring. These should be replaced with grounded wires. And if your home has aluminum wiring, replace it with safer materials, like copper. An upgrade will safely increase your home’s amperage to accommodate the demands of today’s electronic devices. Ask your insurance professional if a wiring upgrade can lower your premiums.

Your Safety Is Our Priority

Despite your best efforts at preventing electrical fires, they can occur. Keep fire extinguishers in at-risk areas like the kitchen, garage, etc. Inspect all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working properly.

What is a double-tapped circuit breaker?

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 15:00:00 GMT

Why Do I Have a Double-Tapped Circuit Breaker?

The reason you have a double-tapped circuit breaker is probably because your panel box didn’t have enough space to connect all the necessary wiring. An unethical electrical technician or a DIY (do-it-yourself) homeowner may have done it at some point in your home’s history to avoid buying the 2-circuit hardware or – what was needed – replacing the panel box.

The National Electrical Code (NEC) doesn’t have a specific code that states a double-tapped circuit breaker is illegal. But Code 110.3(B) says, “Equipment that is listed, labeled, or both shall be installed and used in accordance with any instructions included in the listing or labeling.”

One study guide also adds as an example, that installing a GE circuit breaker in a Cutler-Hammer electric panel just because it fits doesn’t mean it’s right. Using another manufacturer’s circuit breaker in the wrong panelboard violates NEC 110.3(B) and violates the product listing.”

That means double-tapping is a code violation because manufacturers only allow one wire installed.

Why You Need an AZ Experienced Electrician

If you examine your breaker box, you should find a label that says the device is designed for one or two wires (conductors). If it’s designed for one but you have two, it’s double-tapped. The way most homeowners learn they have a double-tapped circuit breaker is when they have electrical issues. A local electrical professional can show them the double-tapped circuitry that is causing problems.

Never attempt to repair a double-tapped breaker. DIY electrical work puts you at risk for shock or electrocution. It also increases the risk of a house fire. When you weigh the time and money DIY electrical work requires, it’s always cheaper (and healthier) to trust your family electrician.

If you have an untrained person handle the repair, you may get a quick fix that is as dangerous as the original problem. It may be okay if your electrician chooses to “pigtail” the wiring inside the panel box if the circuit breaker isn’t overloaded. But your circuit breaker likely is overloaded; that’s part of the problem.

Your circuit breaker should not exceed 75% of the unit’s load capacity rating. It should never carry 100% of a non-continuous load in addition to 125% of any continuous load. A professional electrician knows this and can explain it.

Why does my circuit breaker keep tripping?

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 15:00:00 GMT

Frequent Circuit Breaker Tripping: Reset, Reset…or Solve the Problem

Q: What do a circuit overload and a short circuit have in common?
A: They are both dangerous and they both cause circuit breaker tripping.

Circuit Overload

If you have several appliances plugged in at the same time and it causes your circuit breaker to trip, that’s an overload. There’s no “right” number of appliances that can plug-in to one outlet. The overload has more to do with the amount of electricity (amperage) the appliances are trying to draw from an overburdened system.

Electrical wires are rated to determine how much amperage they can manage. An overload means your demand exceeded a wire’s amperage ability. This can cause the wire to overheat, and that’s a fire risk.

Short Circuit

Electrical flow can be measured in phases. When the current flows from point A to point B, that’s phase one. If there’s an interruption or a deviation in phase one, that’s a short circuit. It can be a “direct short,” within one phase or a phase-to-ground short; a “ground fault.”

A direct short sends a large amount of current through the wire, unrestrained and unrestricted, and it’s a fire risk. A ground fault is equally dangerous. It means the current flowing through the wire touched something; a metal obstacle. This can also cause a fire.

What To Do When the Circuit Breaker Trips

You’re in the master bath. You plug a hairdryer into an outlet in which a curling iron is on high and an uncharged electric toothbrush is charging. The lights go out and all appliances turn off. That’s circuit breaker tripping. Normally, we reset the circuit breaker, unplug the toothbrush, and life goes on.

Here’s how to reset your circuit:

At the circuit breaker box, you can usually see the flipped handle for a particular area of the home in which the power shut down. If not, you’ll need to know which breaker handle is designated for the master bath. (It’s a good idea to have breakers labeled “kitchen appliances,” “laundry,” “bathroom countertop,” etc.)

It’s also a good idea to keep a flashlight near your circuit breaker box.

To reset the tripped circuit breaker, move the handle to the off position. Then flip it back on. We recommend you stand back or wear safety goggles to protect your eyes in case any sparks fly. (This is tricky: A spark could be from a wire and a one-time occurrence. If a spark comes from the panel, shut everything off and call us.)

Electrical Service for Phoenix, Scottsdale, Areas, AZ

If your circuit breaker keeps tripping, it’s a sign something’s wrong with the circuit or your circuit breaker is going bad. You need to schedule an electrical service call. (833) 220-2525

In addition to frequent tripping, if you notice:

… contact 24/7 Local electrician immediately.

Never:

Relocating a Ceiling Light Fixture

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 17:06:00 GMT

How Hard Can It Be? Moving a Ceiling Light Fixture

Relocating a ceiling light fixture – even a foot or two – requires professional help. There are a lot of steps involved and as always, putting your safety at risk is never a good idea.

Contact your local Arizona electrical pros before you dive in. It may be cheaper than you think, and it will certainly be much faster. And easier. And less messy.

One DIYer (do-it-yourselfer) said she just aimed a drill where she wanted the ceiling light fixture to be mounted. Then she began drilling through the drywall. She hit something important, and the lights went out in half the house and wouldn’t turn on. “The repair cost more than having the electrician do the job right the first time,” she mourned.

The most important thing you need to know is this: What’s on top of the ceiling? Before we provide a quote for relocating a ceiling light fixture , we need to know if the ceiling is part of your attic.

If the ceiling is not part of the attic, a hole will likely need to be drilled to re-install the housing and the light fixture’s wiring. The site where the wires all connect is called the “junction box.” The junction box protects the wiring types:

The wires are color-coded.

Did you know approximately 300 million people are color-blind? A recent survey revealed more women are likely to DIY a home improvement project. This could be a good thing because one in 12 men is color-blind.

Another important consideration is the wall-mounted light switch. The chandelier in Terry and LaShonda’s dining room had a basic on/off switch. (Most dining rooms have dimmer-light switches.) A dimmer light changes the flow of electricity every time it’s used.

24/7 Local electrician For Lighting Upgrades

Terry and LaShonda now have a beautiful dining room setting that in her eyes is perfect. Moving a chandelier is a lighting upgrade that improved her quality of life.

That’s what lighting upgrades do. They reinforce home safety or enhance your lifestyle. If you’re considering any home improvement; moving a ceiling light fixture, installing security ground lights, or any renovation that requires electrical upgrades, contact 24/7 Local electrician. .

Can a Handyman Do Electrical Work?

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 17:04:00 GMT

Electrical Work Is Shockingly Dangerous

Electricity is uniquely unforgiving . – CPSC

Professionalism is about accountability. When you hire an unlicensed person to do electrical work, the odds are 50-50 (or less) that the job will be completed safely and effectively. The unlicensed handyman is not responsible if the work leads to property damage or worse. You are. If your insurance company deems the property damage occurred because of hiring an unlicensed electrician, it may deny coverage.

It’s just not worth it.

7 Electrical Statistics

Arizona has a handyman exemption. Any home improvement under $1,000 doesn’t require professional licensing or supervision. That danger causes the Electrical Safety Foundation International to urge you to partner with electrical professionals for even the smallest home improvement project.

Home fires and deaths in addition to hundreds of electrocutions are important statistics :

You Are Responsible: Find a Licensed Electrician

If you hire an unlicensed handyman, you are assuming responsibility for the work . If a neighbor’s family member is hurt during your electrical project, your insurance liability may not cover the costs of injury and damage.

24/7 Local electrician holds Angi’s 2021 Super Service Award and Home Advisor’s Best recognition. But the most important thing you need to know is this: Our company’s electrical professionals are well-trained and receive continuing education. We know how to work with technology to make your home smarter and more energy-efficient. We care about our community and your family because we live here too.

What You Should Know About Electrical Panel Replacement

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 17:02:00 GMT

Learn About Electrical Panel Replacement

Today’s homeowners are hands-on people. But most of us are so busy with family and careers we don’t have time to become expert electricians and home improvement professionals.

There’s a compromise that works for most of us: Learn as much as possible about how things work. You’ll not be at the mercy of an unscrupulous handyman. You’ll make informed decisions. And best of all, you’ll know enough not to put your family and property at risk because of a DIY repair or electrical installation.

Learn about electrical panel replacement.

Understanding Electrical Panels and Their Dangers

The circuit breaker is an incredibly simple solution
to a potentially deadly problem. – Howstuffworks.com

Your home’s circuit breaker is a safety device. In fact, it’s probably the most important safety mechanism you have. If there’s danger, it shuts down power to your home. Without an electrical circuit panel, using the power of electricity in residences would be impossible.

Electricity is defined by:

Fuses and switches on the circuit breaker box will interrupt the electrical flow if there’s a problem. But fuses – which are seldom seen anymore – only work once. Fuses melt when overheated. Switches flip off.

There are 3 main types of circuit breakers:

More recently, DFCIs (dual-fault circuit interrupters) combine arc-fault and ground-fault safety protocols.

There are more than 51,000 home electrical fires every year. And almost 30,000 of those are arc-fault related fires. The problem? Older homes can’t handle today’s demands for electricity. Insurance pros say if your home is more than 40 years old , you need to schedule an electrical inspection.

Electrical Emergencies: Signs You Need Circuit Panel Repair/Replacement

It’s drastic but it actually happens: Some home insurance providers won’t insure a home (or they will, but omit fire coverage) if the electrical panel is outdated or unsafe. Please call us immediately if you have any of these signs you need a panel repair or upgrade :

DIY Electrical Work

…If you understand the process entirely from start to finish, know quite a bit about wiring, safety precautions, and everything required to do the job,
you can do it yourself. – homeinspectioninsider.com

“I read a DIY electrical panel installation website,” said a neighbor. “By the time I got past the basics…which wires will electrocute, what to turn off and what to disconnect so I wouldn’t kill myself… I was completely intimidated.”

He said the list of basic DIY electrical repair included buying:

Smart people are intimidated by danger and know when to partner with a professional electrician .

All You Need is 24/7 Local electrician

TIO Electric is a residential and commercial electrical contractor serving all of the Tucson and Phoenix Metro area including:

4 Common Electrical Emergencies

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 17:00:00 GMT

Life in the United States is better than most people realize. For example, we’ve never suffered a (global) record-breaking electrical emergency. Electrical emergencies have affected hundreds of millions of people in several countries, but our worst was for two weeks in August 2003.

The Northeast Blackout of 2003 affected 50 million people in Canada and the U.S. The Texas 2021 power crisis may have caused between 246-702 deaths.

Electrical Emergencies and What To Do

1. Electrical Fires

Sixty-five percent of deaths due to electrical fires in homes are caused by having nonworking or no smoke detectors. Electrical fires can be caused by:

You can prevent or at least minimize the risks of electrical fires:

2. Electrical Shocks

If someone in your home has been electrocuted, turn off the power supply immediately and call 911. After the power supply has been disconnected, unplug appliances that were part of the electrocution.

3. Fallen Power Lines

Fallen power lines in your area can cause electrical emergencies. If you’re near one:

4. Power Outages

Power outages are probably the most common electrical emergencies in the U.S. The leading cause of power outages is bad weather. Storms that include high winds, ice, and snow have caused widespread power outages.

Other reasons your community or neighborhood may lose power include:

When the power shuts off in your home, first check the circuit breaker. Then check with your neighbors and contact your local power supply company. Some homeowners unplug major appliances and computers and even the main power source at the circuit breaker. When power is restored, turn everything back on.

24/7 Local electrician is the 24-hour electrician in the Valley . If you have a home or office electrical emergency that is not power-company related, we’re here for you. Contact 24/7 Local electrician.

Phoenix landscape lighting installation

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 00:03:00 GMT

Landscape lighting offers the best of three worlds. Most of us add landscape lighting to enhance appearance. The security that comes with landscape lighting is a huge benefit. When you line sidewalks and paths, it becomes a safety feature. Phoenix landscape lighting 2022 trends include low-voltage options for every residential and commercial property.

2022 Phoenix Landscape Lighting Trends

Arizona is a “destination” state for so many people. Phoenix has year-round beauty and comfortable weather almost every day. We spend a lot of time outdoors. That’s why landscape lighting is a must for most Arizona property owners.

This year in particular has been one of rebuilding and renewed hope. What better way to celebrate than by opening our hearts and homes to friends and family? Here are six 2022 Phoenix landscape lighting ideas that will brighten your life in 2022:

1. Deck Lighting

The versatility of deck light fixtures and lighting options is amazing. Choose from:

2. Energy-Efficient

Low-voltage and long-lasting LED lights can last up to 100,000 hours or longer. As always, the upfront cost may cause you to take a step back. But the investment pays off; you’ll get returns in longevity and monthly energy bill savings.

3. Entertainment

Entertainment lights are bolder; brighter than path lighting. Path lights accentuate footfall. Entertainment lighting is placed further away from seating scenarios and aimed to illuminate a larger space.

4. Path Lighting

No one wants to stumble and/or fall. Your need to protect older and younger loved ones never change. And traditional path lighting will never go out of style.

5. Timeless Sustainability

You can choose from designs that won’t date your property. Timeless landscape lighting designs are tasteful features. But choose materials that have longer-lasting durability too. Consider brass, copper-free aluminum, and corrosion-resistant metal fixtures.

6. Tree Lights

No need to wait for winter wonderlands in December! If they’re wonderful in December, why not have that beauty and excitement all year? Tree lighting can also be adjustable for low-lighting or moonlighting.

Solar vs. Electric Phoenix Landscape Lighting

Solar is another landscape lighting trend. It has several advantages: It’s cheaper and low maintenance. Your Phoenix-area electrician appreciates how easily and quickly solar landscape lights can be installed. But…

Hardwired-electrical outdoor lighting is a better investment for your home (and your wallet). A professional electrical landscape light installation will provide the safest possible placement.

The biggest disadvantage to hardwired landscape lighting is if installed incorrectly, they are easily disturbed. That’s why we discourage DIY (do-it-yourself) Phoenix landscape lighting. It won’t save money if a bad installation fails.

Plan Your Landscape Lighting Project

We have many ideas for outdoor lighting that increase your property value. Let’s put together a plan that will do wonders and work with your budget. Contact 24/7 Local electrician..

Finding the best electrician in Phoenix

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 00:03:00 GMT

No matter where you live, any service provider you seek should have certain qualities. Integrity, a history of ethical business practices , and reasonable prices are some of the characteristics you look for in a service company. For closer-to-home professional help, you want service providers that participate in business-to-business (B2B) support and give-back to the community.

In Arizona, we have many electrical service providers. What if you want to go beyond average? How do you find the best electrician in Phoenix ?

Professional Qualifications of the Best Electrician in Your South-Central Arizona Community

On a basic level, the best electrician will be:

But even at a basic level, that means a lot.

Licensed, Professional Electricians

Many of us check Yelp reviews and online testimonials. But how many of us check professional licensing, especially during an emergency? (Yelp verifies electrician licenses with one click.) This is exactly the reason you should research the best Phoenix electrician at your leisure.

To check a company’s license, go to the Arizona Registrar of Contractors and search for the company by name. This is important because licensed electricians :

What Is a Bonded Electrician?

When you partner with your local, bonded electrician , you are assured that if something goes wrong, your electrician can make it right. Guaranteed. Bonding means the contractor has made an investment – paid a premium – to protect you. Be sure to ask for the name of the bonding company.

The Best Electrician Carries The Best Insurance

Any time you allow someone on your property, you put yourself at risk. You can be held responsible if there are any accidents to others while in your home. And you also accept the responsibility that someone on your property could cause damages to your property and possessions.

In Arizona, your licensed electrician must show proof of electrical contractor insurance. Insurance can include:

The Best Electrician in Phoenix? 24/7 Local electrician

The best electrician has a passion for excellence without compromise. Other companies are contented to survive in a volatile economic climate. 24/7 Local electrician chooses company growth through superior quality of service and customer care. Our electrical professionals will always care about your safety first.

TIO Electric holds a specialty Dual CR-11 license in Arizona. We have an active bond with RLI Insurance Company.

Add charging receptacles to your home

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 00:03:00 GMT

If you’re a follower of Facebook posts, you know many people share “good old days” posts. They profess times were better when living was simpler. And they share these thoughts from their iPhones or tablets. They’re probably wearing buds and listening to their personal music library while they read Facebook. Because of that, charging receptacles are in-demand everywhere.

Today: Charging Receptacles in Every Room of Your House

You can convert standard wall outlets to electrical outlets with charging receptacles. In today’s world, having one or more charging receptacles in every room of your house just makes sense. “Dead batteries can lead to depression and withdrawal symptoms,” said Forbes’ Christopher Helman. We’re not sure if he was joking.

Charging receptacles add convenience and will increase the resale value of your home. Most new-home construction already includes wall outlets with charging receptacles.

However, charging electronics adds clutter. It’s unattractive to have phones, tablets, and more plugged-in to every wall outlet family members (and their friends) can find. In every room of your house.

You can buy cabinets and home charging stations for small electronics. Paying more than $2,000 for an ugly charging cart or “tech tub” isn’t any home interior designer’s idea of attractive. And the demand on your home’s electrical load may not stand up to what you’re already doing: charging dozens of personal electronics every day in every room of your house.

Consider installing a home charging station.

Upscale homes have charging stations, but it’s more affordable than you think. They are strategically but tastefully placed. Some charging receptacles configurations are located near the back door for grab-and-go. Some homeowners convert a closet into a charging station with shelves for electronics storage or board games.

Charging receptacles can be located inside:

EV Charging Stations

EV (electric vehicles) charging stations substantially increase your property value. Homes with EV charging stations list 1.5 times higher than comparative metro-area homes and 2.6 times higher than the rest of the country. Your EV purchase included a Level 1 charger that plugs into a garage wall outlet. For some people, that’s all they need. Most of us need to upgrade to a Level 2 EV charger.

TIO Electric Specializes in Charging Solutions for Phoenix Homes

“Installing home charging stations is easy,” said one website. “Any electrician can do it.”

Another expert said, “You can step-by-step DIY (do-it-yourself) electrical wall outlets. Step 1 is to make an appointment with your local electrician.” For safety purposes and to meet our local code requirements, you must have an electrician to work with electricity.

Charging receptacles add value to your quality of life, and they increase your property value. If you’re planning a new home build or renovation this year, don’t forget to upgrade wall outlets. 24/7 Local electrician will work with you or your contractor. Charging receptacles should be included in every room in your house, without or with a built-in charging station.

Technology and electricity were made for each other. We are experts in technical electrical smart home upgrades. Contact 24/7 Local electrician and Tucson to learn more.

Call 24-hour electricians for electrical emergencies

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 00:03:00 GMT

It’s difficult for inexperienced homeowners to determine what is an electrical emergency. For that matter, long-time property owners aren’t always sure either. One homeowner may not think anything is an emergency until flames spew out of an outlet. Another person may think a tripped breaker is an emergency. 24/7 Local electrician team of 24-hour electricians are available if you have an electrical emergency in the Valley.

When Do You Need 24-Hour Electricians?

If your electrical breaker box trips for the first time in years, that’s not an emergency. Reset it and life goes on. If it keeps tripping and you can’t get it to stop, that’s an emergency.

Emergencies that require 24-hour electricians usually involve fires, smoke, and shocks. Every home needs at least one, easy-to-access fire extinguisher on every floor of the house. A garage fire extinguisher is a good idea too. Anyone who has received a bad electrical shock needs medical attention immediately.

Some of the signs you need emergency electrical service are:

Why Emergency Electrical Service Costs More

Annual plumbing and electrical inspections are popular among savvy homeowners, especially if they have an older or historical home. If you invest in an annual electrical inspection, we can discover electrical issues that may become emergencies. You can decide if you want to take preventive steps now or wait.

Knowing the added expense for 24-hour electricians is usually a good incentive. Emergency electricians charge more, and the costs vary for each service call. Here’s why:

We will:

TIO Electric emergency electricians don’t want you to pay for surprise services any more than you do. We will always do our best to minimize our time without compromising safety.

Why you should install kitchen pendant lighting

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 14:22:00 GMT

A prominent magazine featured an article about the 4 types of kitchen lighting:

Pendant lighting is now included as a kitchen lights type rather than style . Kitchen pendant lighting is a cross between ambient and task lighting. It can provide surface lights at various sites throughout the kitchen. But unlike other light types, kitchen pendant lighting is a statement piece.

Install LED Kitchen Pendant Lighting

Have you ever heard, “If you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen?” Your kitchen should be a warm and cozy setting, not a stifling sauna. Energy-saving LED lightbulbs don’t burn as hot as halogen. It’s recommended you install LED kitchen pendant lighting. This will reduce energy and energy expenses as well as make your kitchen a more comfortable room in which to work and connect with others.

8 Advantages, Benefits of Pendant Lighting in the Kitchen

Pendant lighting can be a focal point of attraction in any room. Kitchen pendant lighting is most often used above islands and kitchen tables. In addition to being a focal point, pendant lighting actually helps you focus. It targets the area in which you need more lighting. The ability to hang a single fixture lower at the spot where it’s most needed centralizes your focus.

Other advantages and benefits to kitchen pendant lighting are:

Why You Need Professional Light Installation

Are you a Home Depot fan? (Isn’t everyone?) Here’s what Home Depot has to say about do-it-yourself (DIY) light fixture installation:

Why You Need TIO Electric Light Installation

24/7 Local electrician serves the Phoenix and Tucson areas. For over 25 years, we have been a leading electrical service company because we care. TIO Electric is passionate about safety and customer service.

Our electrical professionals are Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified because we also care about saving energy and sustainability. Like you, we want a better Arizona for our children and future generations.

Thanks to technology, you have plenty of smart home options and they’re all good. Contact 24/7 Local electrician to discuss your home improvement project for this year.

Do you need residential electrical rewiring?

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 14:21:00 GMT

Electrical rewiring is a home improvement project you can feel good about. It increases your property value, of course. But it also increases safety. There are several reasons why you should seek residential electrical rewiring.

There are quite a few homes in the Valley that were built using aluminum wiring. It’s not that aluminum wiring can be fixed. Aluminum wiring should be fixed and the best way is to invest in residential electrical rewiring.

Aluminum Main Cause of Residential Electrical Rewiring

Most of us recall we switched from copper to aluminum for residential electrical wiring from 1965-1972. Aluminum proved to be a valid and safe electricity conductor. The problem was at the connections. Aluminum expands and contracts frequently and that tends to loosen connections.

If your home has aluminum wiring, you are 55 times more likely to have a house fire. It’s not worth risking loss of property and your loved ones’ lives.

We continue to use aluminum wiring in a lot of applications where lighter weight is an advantage. We use aluminum for main overhead power line wiring, for example. Residential aluminum wiring is not illegal, but many insurance companies won’t provide coverage for homes that have it.

It’s interesting to learn data about where we live. Most Tucson and Phoenix homes were built before 1940. Scottsdale new-home-building peaked from 1950-1979. Again, so many homes were built using aluminum that an electrical inspection to see if you need residential electrical rewiring is a good idea.

10 Reasons You May Need Electrical Rewiring in Phoenix, AZ

There are lots of reasons you may have breakers flipping or frequently blown fuses. It might mean you need home rewiring. Other indicators you should have residential electrical rewiring are:

Call TIO Electric For Home Electrical Inspection

An electrical inspection is not an extreme or expensive process. It’s a very good idea when you are buying an older property. “Good old houses” sometimes have very solid, long-lasting electrical wiring. But sometimes they don’t.

…These are also good times to seek an inspection of your home’s electrical system.

24/7 Local electrician is the best choice for licensed, experienced electrical inspection and rewiring in this part of Arizona. We’ll provide recommendations based on our findings and identify potential problems. You will receive our opinion of upgrades that can wait vs. hazards that should be corrected asap.

Commercial LED Lighting, what you need to know

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 14:17:00 GMT

Commercial properties serve as:

…and more. Commercial lighting needs to work harder and last longer than traditional, residential lighting. Residential lighting is more about appearance and aesthetics. Commercial lighting is task-oriented. Commercial properties are often converted to employ light-emitting diodes (LED) lighting. This saves energy and reduces operating expenses.

LED lighting uses at least 75% less energy and lasts 25 times longer than traditional commercial lighting.

There are many advantages to converting to commercial LED lighting. Businesses save money with greater energy efficiency, but commercial LED lighting is also low maintenance. That saves time, and time is money. Commercial LED lighting has been shown to improve productivity. What are other considerations property managers and owners should know about?

What To Know Before Converting to Commercial LED Lighting

We’re familiar with watts. Without completely understanding the magic, we know more watts means more light. But LED lighting that is 10 watts provides about the same amount of light as a 60-watt lightbulb.

We measure brightness with lumens. There are no hard-and-fast rules but there are “rules of thumb” about commercial LED lighting:

6 Advantages of Commercial LED Lighting

Most business managers care about protecting our environment. Truth be told, we care more about company profits. That’s why converting to commercial LED lighting is the most feel-good business decision you can make. You’ll have all the advantages:

For a free consultation and an assessment of your organization’s lighting and electrical systems, contact the best Phoenix-area commercial electrician. 24/7 Local electrician can structure your project to meet turnaround time and budget. Let’s talk:

FAQs for electrical panel replacement

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 14:15:00 GMT

Our friends and neighbors ask a lot of questions about electrical panel replacement. That’s a good thing because there are questions you should ask about home electrical panels.

Some of the frequently asked questions we receive reflect what we’ve always known: The Valley homeowners are savvy DIYers (do-it-yourselfers). And the best DIYers know when to depend on their local electrician for safe and efficient electrical panel replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions About Electrical Panel Replacement

Some FAQs we receive about home electrical panels are:

Q: Can I do a DIY panel upgrade?
A: NO. You certainly won’t save money. The smallest mistake can ruin your home’s electrical system. In addition to causing a fire hazard, the damage repair will be very expensive. If a fire causes damage as a result of a DIY electrical panel replacement, your insurance company can deny coverage. The number of injuries and fatalities professional electricians experience every year is tragic. It’s not worth risking harm or death.
Your professional electrician will:

Q: How can I tell it’s time for an electrical panel upgrade ?
A: If your panel operates with fuses, it’s time for a replacement. If your home was built in the ’70s, ’80s, or 1990s, your electrical panel is due for an upgrade. Signs you need electrical panel replacement include:

Q: Is there a difference between a panel “upgrade” vs. panel replacement?
A: Yes and no. Usually, a panel replacement includes a panel upgrade. It’s a situation of “As long as we’re here…” Panel replacements are mandatory if you have:

A panel “upgrade” is often less about repairs or damage control and more about service. Your home may not have enough open circuits or need additional amperage.

Q: My neighbor had an electrical subpanel installed. What’s that and do I need one?
A: We install quite a few subpanels in homes with electric vehicles. A “subpanel” is a smaller electrical service panel that targets a specific area. It is “essentially a satellite circuit breaker panel that has its own breakers,” says The Spruce. The advantages are:

Q: Our small home was built in 1988. We retired here in 2018, and so far, so good. If we don’t have any problems, do we really need an electrical panel replacement?
A: Your home’s electrical panel is overdue for replacement. You need to plan and budget for an electrical panel replacement sooner rather than later. Why wait until an emergency?

We also need you to check the inside of the panel cover to see if it says “Federal Pacific.” If it does, call us asap. These were never “officially” recalled but had a too-high failure rate that caused fires.

24/7 Local electrician is your residential and commercial electrician for top-tier experienced service and customer care. When you have questions, please ask. Contact 24/7 Local electrician today!

Do you really need an after-hours electrician?

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 21:11:00 GMT

A nervous mom-to-be once asked her doctor how to know if she was “really in labor.” The doctor replied, “If you think you aren’t in labor, you probably aren’t. You’ll know when to call me.”

The opposite is true when it comes to electrical problems, day or night. If you suspect but are not sure you need an after-hours electrician , you do .

When To Call Your After-Hours Electrician

Something is wrong with your home’s electricity. It could be dangerous or worse. But it’s the middle of the night. (That’s why they call it “ Phoenix emergency electrical service.”)

Smart homeowners have their family electrician after-hours number in their cellphones under “E” for “electrician.” There are plenty of reasons to call an after-hours electrician.

The most common reasons are:

When To Call TIO Electric

If you are a residential or commercial property owner, when you need a Phoenix Metro electrician :

…or a Tucson Metro electrician :

…you need an experienced, trustworthy company for your home or business. That’s when you need 24/7 Local electrician.. Let our knowledgeable electrical professionals serve you. Call or (833) 220-2525 .

The future of home automation

Sun, 02 Jan 2022 05:38:00 GMT

It’s considered smart to strive for energy conservation. And most of us are fascinated by bells and whistles. When you put the two together – managing resources and gadgetry – the future looks bright. Smart home automation is a trend we can respect and enjoy.

7 Benefits of Home Automation

There are too many advantages to home automation for it to be a fleeting fad. There are more, but the seven most important benefits are:

Trends to Watch in 2022

Futurist Architecture defines “smart homes” as “living spaces that use internet-connected devices to remotely monitor and manage processes, including heating, lighting, security, and general home maintenance.” Here are the top trends to watch in 2022.

TIO Electric For Home Technology Management

Let’s face it: Electrical systems are no longer a matter of which wire goes where. You may “just need an app,” but your electronics need to be performing properly before an app can kick in. 24/7 Local electrician professionals receive ongoing education to remain competent in electrical home automation.

We serve Phoenix, Tucson, and surrounding communities.

We can help when it’s time to add sensing tools to appliances and manage lighting with dimmers. Just call , and let’s discuss your options. We will share what we know because we’re eager to be your smart home electricians. Contact (833) 220-2525 .

When your gfci keeps tripping

Sun, 02 Jan 2022 05:38:00 GMT

You’re stepping out of the morning shower. The overhead heat lamp begins generating warmth. Your wife’s curling iron is plugged-in on the counter. When she enters the room and flips the switch on her hairdryer, that’s it.

Every appliance on that circuit is off. It’s not the first time this has happened, so you know it’s time to correct the ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) problem.

GFCI devices have saved lives and property. When your GFCI keeps tripping, it’s a heads-up. One engineer calls this “nuisance tripping.” But don’t let the word “nuisance” reduce the importance of this protective feature.

If the GFCI keeps tripping , there’s likely an equipment or wiring issue. Never ignore this nuisance.

Why Your GFCI Keeps Tripping

Have you ever pondered a social problem and wondered, “Why doesn’t somebody do something?” Every year there are as many as 400 home-related electrocutions. The GFCI is one solution to that problem, thanks to Charles Dalziel. In 1965, Dalziel patented his ground fault circuit interrupter “to prevent a lethal dose of electricity, specifically before the electricity can affect your heartbeat.”

A GFCI outlet measures power. It was designed to react quickly if there is a surge of 4-5 milliamps (a very small variable). It shuts down the circuit as a safety measure.

When a GFCI keeps tripping, it’s doing what it’s supposed to do. Before calling your local Valley electrician , try this:

Pima, Maricopa Counties’ Residential & Commercial Electrician

24/7 Local electrician professionals have served The Valley for over 25 years. That means we’re invested in this area. We’re invested in you.

Safety is our primary motivation, followed by high-quality workmanship and continuing technical education. When TIO electricians discuss your problem by phone, we won’t pressure you to schedule an inspection (or a free quote) unless your family or property is at-risk.

Never let money jeopardize your property’s safety. If your electrical project can wait, we’ll tell you. But if you need electrical work now, we’ll connect you with affordable, flexible financing that works with your budget.

We have experience in commercial and residential landscape lighting, security systems, and more. If you have questions about your GFCI circuitry or are planning electrical upgrades this year, contact (833) 220-2525 .

Every time a light turns on, thank an electrician. When it doesn’t, call Turn It On!®

Pool light options and repairs

Sun, 02 Jan 2022 05:37:00 GMT

Recent market forecasts have been short-term because things just happen faster than they used to. One Tucson resident planning to install a pool this summer found a market report for pool lights. It’s long-term: LED Pool Light Market 2022 forecasts LED pool light trends through 2027.

There’s no doubt LED lights are the best for many applications. They are a great choice for pool lights.

Types of Pool Light Bulbs

Underwater lights offer form and function. They can be lovely and aesthetically pleasing when viewed in and outside a swimming pool. They also provide visibility, so unsuspecting people and pets don’t fall into the pool at night.

Swimming pool lights are designed for commercial and residential properties. They are waterproof (of course), corrosion-resistant and bulbs can be halogen, incandescent, and LED. Most swimming pool lights work well in either vinyl or concrete pools.

LED Pool Light Trends

TechGuru says swimming pool technology is crazy-exciting today. There are wireless pool thermometers, alarms, and solar pool ionizers available for trendy swimming pools. But LEDs are the reason for current…electrifying swimming pool light trends.

Here are 3 battery-powered ideas:

Customized, programmable LED lighting systems can transform your pool into an aquatic experience. LED lights installed under the coping or in pipes embedded in the walls “give off a soft glow that washes over the water,” says one design architect. Fiber-optics can create a starry-night effect.

You’ll want to consider the longevity, energy use, options for colors, and special effects. A permanent mounted LED pool light system is tricky to install. You need to partner with your local electrician for a safe, effective installation. (This is not something you want to experiment with, no matter how handy you are.)

Landscape Lighting

A lot of what’s beautiful about a swimming pool is less about a pool light and more about the aesthetics. Landscape lighting is often a safety feature. But it can provide beautiful illumination and ambiance. Effective landscape lighting creates a secure, inviting setting that draws you outdoors.

TIO Electric: Safety, Spas, and Swimming Pool Lighting Repairs

Because we’re spending more time at home, we’re more invested in security and comfort. Creating an outdoor experience takes creativity. It usually requires a dedicated electrical circuit. If you have ideas, let’s talk about the possibilities and electrical options.

And if you need pool light repair , don’t put it off. When your swimming pool lights’ breaker keeps tripping , don’t call your pool company. Get the kids out of the pool and contact 24/7 Local electrician.

How to find the best home electrician near you

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 23:06:00 GMT

“I need a home electrician near me,” said a historical homeowner in Tucson. “Phoenix is at least 90 minutes away in good traffic.” If you’re in a bind, you want the best home electrician near you. Quickly.

The Best Phoenix and Tucson Home Electrician Near You

Phoenix is South-Central Arizona. It includes 24 municipalities. The East Valley encompasses:

The West Valley includes:

…and more. The best home electrician near you in Phoenix is 24/7 Local electrician. Our 1725 W. Deer Valley #110, Phoenix, AZ, 85027 office is open 24/7.

Tucson is in Southern Arizona. 24/7 Local electrician serves homes and businesses in:

…and more. The best home electrician near you in Tucson is 24/7 Local electrician. Our 1 S. Church Avenue, Ste. 1200, Tucson 85701 office is open 24/7.

Time is valuable for today’s homeowners. You should have a local, certified electrician in your contacts under “E.” It’s the same way with HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) and plumbing. The key is finding the right electrical contractor for you and your property.

8 Tips For Finding Your Electrician

“What should I do to find a home electrician near me?” Thanks to technology, you can enter locations in Google Maps. But proximity doesn’t matter if a home electrician near you has a slow response time. Or the electrical repair person shows up quickly (without the right tools).

Use these tips for finding your home electrician near you.

TIO Electric: Invested in Your Home and Family

Perhaps you don’t have an electric car, security lights, or a home smart thermostat. (Yet.) When it’s time for your home’s electrical upgrades and renovations, your 24/7 Local electrician team of electricians will be there for you. We care about your safety and quality of life. We want to be the best home electrician for you. When you’re ready, contact (833) 220-2525.

5 proven ways to save electricity

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 23:06:00 GMT

Some great people have more heart than money. They are working hard to make energy conservation a reality for our planet and country. You don’t have to be a Peace Corps volunteer to care about energy savings. Arizona property owners are always seeking proven ways to save electricity.

5 Ways To Save Electricity

Some ways to save electricity don’t change: Switching to LED lightbulbs saves energy. Then, turn off the lights when not in use. The 24/7 Local electrician team has researched many ways to save electricity.

Keep in mind, this is more than a way to earn bragging rights. Do the math. Your upfront investment must justify the long-term savings.

These are 5 proven standouts:

Don’t believe in vampires? These 27 standby energy vampires are real:

For Energy Saving Ideas, Call TIO Electric

Almost all electrical home improvement projects require a licensed electrician. You just can’t risk property damage or family injury to save money.

24/7 Local electrician is the Valley’s LEED-certified electrical contractor. We care about making Arizona a better place to live because we live here too. If you have questions about home or business energy conservation , just ask. When you know more, you make informed decisions. Call or contact TIO Electric.

5 FAQs about an EV charger installation

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 23:06:00 GMT

Always ask questions! When you learn more about any topic, you’ll make informed decisions. 24/7 Local electrician of Arizona is available to answer your questions about EV charger installation in Phoenix and surrounding communities. We encourage you to contact us before you buy, so you’ll make the right decisions for your home, lifestyle, and your energy-saving (money-saving) electric vehicle!

Some of the frequently asked questions we receive about an EV charger installation include:

Q: Does my electric car charger have to go in my garage?
A: The garage is the best location for many reasons. But not all Southwest homes have garages. Many have carports or stand-alone driveways. You can charge your car anywhere it’s safe. And the keyword is “safe.”

Ask your local electrician about the laws and regulations regarding outdoor charging stations. If your home will support it, you might be able to charge your vehicle without compromising power, but again; you need a professional electrician evaluation.

Q: I didn’t buy a charger when I bought the car, can you still help?
A: It’s never too late. Most EV car purchases include a Level 1 charger. This plugs into your home’s standard 120-volt outlet. Many electric vehicle owners say it’s not adequate, so they purchase a Level 2 charger.
You’ll likely want a Level 2 EV charger installation. You should partner with a Phoenix professional electrician to get the fastest, most efficient, and safest installation.

Q: How do I know what electric car charger fits my car?
A: Charging an EV car is not exactly like pumping gas. It’s going to take longer. It’s also less about what fits your car and more about what fits your home. The EV charger that came with your car purchase may not be able to fully charge your car overnight. Forbes says to think Level 2: Level 2 = 240 volts.

To determine the right car charger for your home, consider:

Q: What’s the best EV charger?
A: There are many chargers available on the internet from $200-$1,000 or more, but often they’re low-quality and cheap. They may not be safe. Your charger should be safety-certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (ETL). The best EV charger installation will include a 3-year warranty for the charger. Your local electrician should guarantee the quality of workmanship for an EV charger installation.

Q: Will I need a new electric panel for an EV charger installation?
A: A lot depends on how fast you need your car to recharge. A retiree that drives 2-3 times a week may be happy with the Level 1 charger that came with the car. If you’re a 5-days-a-week commuter, you need a powerful EV charger installation. You should schedule a home electrical evaluation by your professional electrician.
You need to know:

TIO Electric is experienced in Tesla, Qmerit, and hybrid car charger installations for Phoenix- and Tucson-area residential and commercial properties. Ask us about EV charger installation options for your home. Contact (833) 220-2525 today.

Getting ready for an electric car charger installation

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 23:05:00 GMT

You’ve purchased your electric or hybrid vehicle! It’s exciting and you’re eager for this investment to do its magic. It will reduce your carbon footprint and save money. Now it’s time for your home electric car charger installation.

Electric Car Charger Installation Questions To Ask Your Electrician

The “slow-speed charger cable” that came with your EV purchase charges between 2-5kW. You’ll quickly learn that’s not what you need. Forbes issued its “best home EV chargers” for 2021 and prices range from $369.00 to $1,099.99. Before you buy an EV home charger, you may want to consult with your local electrician.

Here are questions to ask:

1. Do you think I need an electrician? An honest electrician will tell you if a DIY (do-it-yourself) home electric car charger installation is safe. You may not need professional installation if:

2. Does it matter where my electric car charger installation is located? Location matters because you want the charger near or in your garage or driveway. An outdoor charger needs a different installation process to better protect it from the weather. If your circuits and plugs are insufficient, you may need more wiring/rewiring.

3. Does my electric car charger installation need permits? Do I need a city, county, or both? Local codes vary. A professional Phoenix electrician will know what your community requires.

4. How much electricity do I need? This depends on the type of EV and how it will be used. The amount of electricity you need also depends on how quickly you want to home-charge your EV.

5. Is a professional inspection required after a home electric car charger installation? In some Phoenix communities, you’ll require a professional inspection following DIY charger installation.

6. Is my electrical panel okay or do I need an upgrade? This is determined by your existing electrical load. You may need to upgrade to 200- or 400-amp electrical service. Also, a dedicated circuit is needed. You may require a sub-panel.

EV Charger Installation Process

Your electrical professional must first inspect and determine your electrical requirements. The actual electric car charger installation by your family electrician should take about 2 hours. If you need more than a standard installation, you may be charged more.

Before the installation date:

Your electrician will confirm the installation date and time. During installation, your electrician will:

Learn more about your EV at-home charging options before you invest in a charging station. Contact (833) 220-2525 today.

Finding Commercial Electricians Near You

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 14:41:00 GMT

Arizona licensing requirements for electricians are categorized as residential and commercial. Residential electricians work in homes. Commercial electricians provide electrical repair, maintenance, and safety inspections for commercial properties, including offices and non-industrial workplaces.

License requirements are about the same; you must pass a trades exam and a statute/rules test. A licensed commercial electrician needs to have at least 4 years’ experience working on commercial properties.

Most commercial electricians are qualified to do residential work. But not all residential electricians are licensed to perform commercial work.

Signs You Need Commercial Electricians

If you own a commercial property, you may have several floors. You may also have several tenants. Let’s say half the third floor was office space. Now it’s empty and your potential tenant is a medical practice with an onsite laboratory. There will be different types of equipment that have higher electrical demands.

You’ll probably need rewiring; maybe a panel upgrade. You need a company with commercial electricians to assess the increased electrical requirements.

If you own or manage a Phoenix business, you know that electricity is critical to operations. Downtime costs money. Some of the indications you need a commercial electrician include:

Questions your Phoenix commercial electrician should be able to easily answer include:

Your commercial property needs its own commercial electrician. Your commercial electrician will put a plan in place to:

How To Find Local Commercial Electricians

If your city is:

…and adjacent neighborhoods, you’ve already found the top-rated commercial electrical contractor near you. 24/7 Local electrician is a 4.5-5-star company with great testimonials on independent websites. We are licensed, bonded, insured, and have positive B2B (business-to-business) relationships in several communities. We guarantee our work.

Put “24/7 Local electrician” and our phone number in your cellphone Contacts list under “E” for efficient, eager, earnest, excellent electricians.

If you have questions about qualified commercial electricians or need a second opinion, contact (833) 220-2525 . We’ll work hard to earn your business.

24/7 Emergency Electricians Near You

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 14:40:00 GMT

Heating and cooling, plumbing, electricity… Phoenix and Tucson emergency services always cost more. Emergency electricians encourage residents to get help before electrical problems become emergencies.

For example, heat-related deaths in Phoenix, AZ hit an all-time high in 2020 . There are many reasons for these heat-related illnesses and deaths, including lack of air conditioning due to:

When Should You Call Emergency Electricians?

Many people see a temporary area-wide power outage as an emergency. It isn’t unless you have family members vulnerable to extreme heat or cold. In that case, you should leave your home if possible and seek protection elsewhere. If that’s not possible, contact community police or fire departments for assistance.

Never ignore what could be a dangerous electrical problem. Maricopa and Pima counties have many emergency electricians.

Here are signs you need emergency electric repair :

6 Electrical Problems That Aren’t Emergencies

Electrical issues can cause property damage, injury, or death. No one disregards an electrical problem. You can deal with it now or perhaps deal with it later, but you have to deal with it.

Here are some electrical problems or needs that are not emergencies:

T24/7 Local electrician: ‘E’ for ‘Emergency’

Don’t lose time googling when you have an electrical emergency. Store 24/7 Local electrician in your cellphone’s contact list under “E.” E stands for “emergency” and “electrician.” When you read testimonials and online reviews , you’ll see 24/7 Local electrician professionals are local emergency electricians that care about safety first, closely followed by customer care.

If you suspect your home or commercial property has an electrical problem, it probably does. And at the first sign of an emergency, contact your emergency electricians at 24/7 Local electrician..

Becoming a Journeyman Electrician

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 14:39:00 GMT

Nothing can replace the value of a college education. But after 4 years of hard work, students often learn a hard lesson: Their new career income will barely cover living and college loan expenses.

Becoming a journeyman electrician is hard work too. After years of on-the-job paid training, you’ll have a career you can be proud of. With no debt.

Apprenticeship: The First Step to Your Phoenix Journeyman Electrician Career

You’ve heard the expression, “Earn while you learn.” That’s how an apprenticeship program works. You work and train under a journeyman electrician for several years. You build skills, expertise, and knowledge along the way.

In Arizona, there are no licensing differentiators between “apprentice,” “journeyman,” or “master” electricians. A Phoenix electrician will either have a residential (R-11), commercial (C-11) license or both (CR-11). You can only work as an electrician under the supervision of someone who holds these licenses.

Electrical Contractor/Journeyman Electrician Requirements

To become an electrical apprentice, a high school education is required. Classes in electricity, math, shop, or training in the U.S. Armed Forces are not required but helpful. To begin training as a journeyman electrician, you will need:

Experience needed to become an Arizona electrical contractor includes hands-on training and (supervised) electrical project management development. Remember, as a Journeyman Electrician you’ll need to work for someone with one of these licenses.

Licenses include:

What You Will Learn

It averages between 5-7 years of on-the-job training to become a journeyman electrician. Every year, as your expertise and competencies grow, you’ll advance in knowledge and skills.

Your first year will likely focus on:

…and more. In the following years you will receive training in:

…and more, followed by light commercial experience and training.

Begin a Debt-Free Career Now

You want to earn above-average pay doing something exciting and filled with opportunities. You want to become a journeyman electrician. Now what?

You can either attend a trade school’s program or join a reputable company willing to provide on-the-job education and training (or both).

What should you look for in Phoenix or Tucson electrical contracting companies? Pay attention to the professionalism and appearance of the company headquarters, equipment, and employees. If their work trucks or vans are shabby and dirty (and if their employees are too), they may not offer the level of experience and professionalism you need.

Good electrical contractors offer:

24/7 Local electrician: A Company Culture That Works for You

There’s more to life than working for somebody. When you are passionate about your job, your company should work for you . Why wait? Contact 24/7 Local electrician.to learn more about becoming a journeyman electrician.

11 Signs You Need a Panel Upgrade

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 14:39:00 GMT

Your breaker trips and your electricity is on-and-off too frequently. When you check the breaker box, you see a brown, burnt-looking discoloration. Those are 2 critical signs you need a panel upgrade.

No Electrical Problems: Is a Panel Upgrade Necessary?

Your panel is your home’s electrical “distribution point.” It distributes electricity to appliances, outlets, and switches throughout the house. Usually located in the garage or attic, its breakers “trip” (shut off) to alert you there’s a problem.

The median year for houses built in Phoenix, AZ is 1982. This means half of our homes were built after 1982. But half of our homes were built earlier. If there are no problems, a panel box should provide service between 20-30 years. Many homes in Maricopa County and The Valley are due – or overdue – for a panel upgrade.

11 Reasons for an Arizona Panel Upgrade

Today we use more electricity than ever, and our usage is rising. The cost of a 400-amp panel upgrade averages $2,000-$4,000. If you have a 100-amp panel and add a charging station, you may want a panel upgrade to 200 amps. But if you have any of these electrical warning signs, you need a panel upgrade :

Contact TIO Electric For More Information

24/7 Local electrician is your Phoenix- and Tucson-area resource for electrical panel upgrades. We adhere to industry best practices for home and family safety. Our team of professionals is trained to repair, maintain, and install the top technological residential and commercial devices and appliances. (And we’re eager to share what we know with you.)

Electric car charger installation FAQs

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 14:10:00 GMT

If you invest in an electric car, you must have two things:

Ideally, your dedicated parking place will be inside your personal garage. If your dedicated parking space is outside, Jim Gorzelandy of myev.com says, “You’ll want to have an electrician install a hardwired charging station , which is also called electric vehicle service equipment (EVSE). You’ll need to have it attached to either an external wall or a freestanding pole.”

The outdoor-rated unit your local electrician will install will be all-weather safe.

FAQs: Electric Car Charger Installation in Phoenix

Q: Can I charge my car with the standard electrical outlets in my garage?
A: Your electric car will come with a Level 1, 120-volt charger that you can plug into a standard electrical outlet. Most electric car owners quickly discover it takes too long (about 16 hours) and causes problems with household appliances. A Level 2 charging solution is better. If your daily commute is 50 miles, your charging time will be about 2 hours.

Q: Can I do a Level 2 electric car charger installation myself?
A: Sure. As with almost everything, the DIY (do-it-yourself) instructions for installing a Level 2 charger are on the internet.
But it’s truly a bad idea. Some of our friends and neighbors (like you) here in Maricopa County begin blowing fuses after a DIY electric car charger installation, and they must call us anyway.
It’s simply safer and easier to have a licensed, local, professional electrician check your amperage, inspect your circuit breaker panel (and upgrade if necessary), and make sure your power grid has enough voltage. In fact, it’s an even better idea to have this kind of inspection before you invest in your electric car.

Q: What is “plugless” power for electric cars?
A: Remember that day you forgot to charge your car? It wasn’t pretty. If you’re already tired of cables and plug-ins for your electric car, you should consider a wireless charge. It’s simply a better electric car experience because it “eliminates thinking about charging ,” said one website.
Most of the electric cars driven today don’t have built-in wireless charging compatibility, so you may need that installed on your car. Wireless charging also requires induction coils, a circuit board installation, and a dedicated electrical connection (15 watts or less). Your family electrician will provide a wireless electric car charger installation service.

Q: What is a Level 3 electric car charger installation?
A: DC Fast Charging is what you’ll use at public charging stations. They may be installed on commercial and industrial properties and are not for residential electric car charging.

Turn It On Electric Is Committed to the Future of Phoenix Families

Electric cars could contribute to a 38% increase in electrical use by 2050. While there are challenges, the future of electricity for our nation’s communities looks good. Headlines like “Electric Cars Challenge State Power Grids” may appear worrisome but some are eager to embrace the growth opportunity. Our Turn It On Electric team looks forward to electrical challenges and opportunities.

If you have questions about electric lifestyle solutions for your home or commercial property, contact (833) 220-2525

Add security lighting to your home or office

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 14:10:00 GMT

Security lighting provides a level of illumination to clearly identify persons or objects and creates a psychological deterrent to criminal activity in the area being protected. – Crime Prevention

Protection professionals identify 4 basic types of outside security lighting:

There are also security lighting solutions that are less complex and more user-friendly:

There are several types of security light systems for homes and commercial properties. You can upgrade your outdoor lighting for increased illumination or use monitored professional services. Whatever you choose, it’s a small investment that can pay big dividends in peace of mind.

Invest in Security Lighting as a Psychological Deterrent

Home and commercial security lighting should deter trespassers and provide better nighttime visuals of your property. For a long while, we believed motion detectors were the best type of security lighting. But to activate the light, the trespasser has to already be on your property . So it’s not a deterrent as much as it is a report of activity.

That’s the difference between security lighting and motion sensors. Some motion sensors include security lighting and/or video recording. But none of them acts as a deterrent to trespassers.

Effective security lighting should cause “the bad guys” to stop and consider their exposure on your property. Hopefully, they’ll pass you by. If they decide to proceed, your security lighting should incorporate some kind of camera to reveal who was on your property.

Form and Function With Landscape Lighting

What if you make your outdoor security lighting look like a landscape design? Landscape lights can also form a protective barrier of lighting security. It’s beautiful and enhances your home and the neighborhood.

An example would be tasteful floodlights directed at your home’s exterior. You can see the illumination and not the glare from a bright light source.

Downlights are considered “task lights.” They can illuminate walkways and driveways but they also reveal trespassers.

Entrance lights can be downlights. The objective is to shine brighter light directly on your door. Unwanted visitors avoid well-illuminated doors.

Call 24/7 Local electrician For Home Safety and Security

Do a walkaround of your property at night and keep this in mind: Criminals don’t like to be seen. Do you have vulnerable places that need security lighting or a lighting upgrade?

We can offer suggestions that will save money and maximize your security. For example, the brightest lights aren’t always what’s best for the area you want to be illuminated. Bright lights can feel invasive to close neighbors. Often, a 40-watt bulb is as effective as a 100-watt.

If you have elderly friends or relatives, you want them to be able to navigate pathways safely. We’d like to discuss landscape lights as security lighting for your property. TIO Electric professionals also are experienced in installing light-and-video security systems as well as video doorbells.

Living in Arizona is just one of the smart choices you’ve made. Another smart home option is partnering with 24/7 Local electrician of Phoenix. Call us for more information.

Is it time for a circuit breaker repair?

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 14:10:00 GMT

We tend to take our electrical systems for granted until they don’t work. When that happens – home or business – getting our electric system back to normal takes top priority. Circuit breaker repair is confusing at best because most authorities say there’s no such thing as “circuit breaker repair.” Broken circuit breakers have to be replaced.

When you google “circuit breaker repair,” you’ll get plenty of DIY (do-it-yourself) ways to fix your circuit breaker. Most experts (and homeowners insurance companies) advise: Don’t try this at home.

Reasons You Need Circuit Breaker Repair or Replacement

It helps to understand how electrical breakers are used. Circuit breakers are like fire alarms. Their job is to protect the amount of current flowing on a circuit. If it exceeds its rated level, which is measured in amps, it “trips.” That is your alarm signal.

The power goes out. You know where the electric panel is located and you know how to reset the circuit breaker. By the time you’re back in the kitchen, you hear a “pop” and it’s tripped again. Now what?

Why can’t you reset your circuit breaker? Reasons include:

Circuit Breaker Problems: 11 Warning Signs

When your circuit breaker keeps tripping, that’s a major warning sign you need circuit breaker repair or replacement. Other signs are:

An annual electrical inspection is a small investment that can prevent huge losses. If you suspect you need electrical upgrades or repair, you probably do. Play it safe. Contact (833) 220-2525

Do you really need an electrical panel upgrade?

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 14:09:00 GMT

The reality of charging an incredible number of electronic devices – and a hybrid car – is a real challenge. That’s why an electrical panel upgrade is one of the most popular home improvements.

What Is an Electrical Panel Upgrade?

An electric panel is like a power hub. When your home or commercial property’s power shuts off, this is where you go first. When your local electrician is working on an installation or repair, you turn off the power at the electrical panel for safety.

Electrical panels contain circuit breakers that can be repaired. But an electric panel itself can’t be repaired. Older homes’ power boxes are often deteriorated and hazardous. And with our phenomenal increase in electricity usage, you can see why an electrical panel upgrade is value-added.

Why This Upgrade Is Worth the Investment

Our culture is managing electrical demands we never anticipated. An active household requires more electricity, faster delivery, and the security of knowing the electrical system will support their needs.

Safety first. That’s the immeasurable ROI (return on investment) you’ll get with an electrical panel upgrade. If you’re planning to sell this year or next, this home improvement project will be a big plus for buyers and can increase your resale value.

How many laptops, cellphones, gaming consoles, and smart TVs do you add to your kitchen and laundry’s daily demand for electricity? When you do the math, you will be astounded. If you add a new, heavy-duty, power-hungry appliance to your old electrical system, you risk damaging electronics or appliances. At the very least you’ll begin seeing warning signs, like repeated tripped breakers.

Signs You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade

Obviously, if your home or commercial building’s electrical panel has suffered damage:

…You will need a panel replacement. Other signs you need an electrical panel upgrade are:

You need a reputable, licensed electric contractor for any home improvement project that involves electrical work. What could go wrong? A lot can go wrong, and your insurance company can deny coverage for property damages that occur as a result of DIY (do-it-yourself) electrical upgrades.

Two DIY mistakes that can be extremely dangerous (and costly) include:

24/7 Local electrician is The Valley’s experienced, licensed electrical contractor. We stand behind the quality of our work and our technicians’ ongoing training ensures you’ll get the latest technological knowledge with TIO Electric. Contact us (833) 220-2525 to plan your next project!

Why you need an electrical inspection for your home

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 04:18:00 GMT

Businesses are familiar with commercial electrical inspections. They are often required for city safety protocols and insurance. But savvy homeowners schedule electrical inspections too.

Some couples want to baby-proof their homes, especially areas in which their crawler/toddler will have access. Owners of older or historical homes want to be sure they have safe wiring and enough outlets to power-up an active family.

There are several causes of home fires (cooking is number 1). Electrical or lighting equipment was the leading cause of home fire property damage 2014-2018. Annually, an average of 33,900 electrical fires caused 470 deaths and $1.4 billion in property damage.

You need an electrical inspection for your home:

Over time, wiring, conduits, connections, and other electrical components deteriorate. Getting a regular electrical inspection is simply a smart thing to do.

What’s Included in an Electrical Inspection?

An electrical home inspection is a complete examination of your home’s electrical system. We examine large electrical appliances, equipment, wiring, and other parts of your system. 24/7 Local electrician uses the standards set by the NEC (National Electrical Code).

Your inspection includes:

Following your electrical inspection, we will provide you with a detailed checklist that includes inspected areas and our findings, especially potential problems. Recommendations for upgrades and situations that require immediate attention will be noted.

How Often Do You Need an Electrical Inspection?

Most homeowners opt for an electrical inspection once every 5 years. Others schedule theirs more or less frequently. A lot depends on the age and condition of your property. If you have a rental property, scheduling an electrical inspection when you change tenants might be a good idea.

An electrical inspection will reveal hazards and risks before they cause dangerous (and expensive) problems.

Benefits of Home Electrical Safety Inspection

Are you a holiday lighting enthusiast? It’s worth the peace of mind knowing your home can handle all the electrical decorations you, and Clark Griswold, want to display!

Other benefits of your electrical inspection include:

Your Safety Is Our Priority

You can tell a lot about a company by the independent reviews you find online. 24/7 Local electrician has terrific reviews on Angie, Home Advisor, the Better Business Bureau… But our 5-star glassdoor.com reviews are another source of pride. This site is maintained by employees, not companies or customers:

Great team to work with…Good working environment…
I have learned a lot in 6 months…It’s like a big family…

Our company’s electrical professionals are just that: professionals. They are always under the guidance of a master/journeyman electrical contractor.

The quality of our work is without compromise.

Customer care drives our business.

Our number-one priority is safety: yours and your family’s. Contact TIO Electric with questions about home inspections (or career opportunities). And when a light doesn’t turn on, call (833) 220-2525 !

When you need an industrial electrician, call 24/7 Local Electrician

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 04:18:00 GMT

Industrial electricians are needed for specialty electrical work. We need industrial electricians for specialty electrical repair and maintenance in:

…and more.

Additional skills beyond residential wiring are required for any facility that has more complex electrical systems than single-family homes. As a facilities manager for:

…in The Valley, you need an experienced industrial electrician.

Keep Things Running With an Industrial Electrician

There are codes, regulations, and safety requirements for a commercial property you don’t have with residences. You must have regular electrical inspections and professional electrical maintenance. You want electrical repair service sooner rather than later.

Do you have business tenants relying on communications with customers using electronic equipment? An electrical outage can be a financial disaster for them.

Your industrial electrician should be knowledgeable about and experienced in:

When You Need an Industrial Electrician for Hard FM Services

Soft facilities management services are tasks that improve the appearance of the property and the wellbeing of its tenants. Good examples of soft FM include mail management or providing cleaning/janitorial assistance.

Electrical repair and maintenance is a hard FM service. It is onsite and requires an onsite building service for integrated systems. These are large systems (HVAC units, for example) that cannot be removed for repairs. Arizona facility managers use a professional commercial or industrial electrician for liability purposes.

Why Should You Choose TIO?

24/7 Local Electrician began its business by specializing in industrial electrical services. Since then, we’ve expanded to include other commercial electrical contracting work plus residential installations and repairs.

We earned our success as well as high ratings and great testimonials, but we never take anything for granted. We support our local community because being able to give back is important to us.

We’re the electricians other electricians call when they have questions. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician if you have questions, too.

When you need electrical repair in Tucson, call TIO

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 04:18:00 GMT

Most of our homes in Tucson were built between 1970-1979. “The upside,” says one home inspection pro, “Is that these (1970s) houses often have the modern 3-slot receptacles…similar to what is being installed today. The downside is that most homes do not have ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), which provide shock protection.”

Fifteen percent of Tucson homes were built in 1950-1959. Homes built in the 1950s used electricity for lighting only. However, it was also the 1950s when electric appliances began their big boom in the United States. Washers, dryers, televisions, ovens, coffee percolators, clocks…Anything that could be electric was. It was deemed safer than gas and of course, more convenient.

This led to electrical service needs closer to home: electrical repair in Tucson and wiring upgrades for 1950s-1980s homes. Today, Turn It On Electric is the premier provider of electrical repair in Tucson.

TIO Reviews and Testimonials for Electrical Repair in Tucson

‘Highly Rated for Quality, Value, and Customer Service’

Yelp says the best electrical repair in Tucson is 24/7 Local electrician. That’s a powerful endorsement! Angi gives TIO Electric a 5-out-of-five-star rating :

HomeAdvisor gives TIO Electric a 96% recommended rating , and we’re working hard to bring that percentage up. We want every property owner in Tucson to recommend Turn It On Electric. Put this in your contact list under “E” for electrician:

243 Words of Praise

We have a testimonials page on our website. But the best reviews are the testimonials not on our website.

Here are just some of the words from 10 pages of internet reviews:

Our Services: What Do You Need?

TIO Electric can provide the electrical services you need, 24/7:

We’re proud to be the leading electrical contractor in Tucson ! We’re even happier if we’re your electrician. You’ll always get the best service; the best price. After all, we live here too. Contact us with questions.

What to do when your pool breaker trips

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 04:18:00 GMT

“We had our pool installed 2 years ago. The pool company that installed the pool also provides pool maintenance,” said Joni.

“From Day 1 we had problems, mostly electrical. The main breaker keeps tripping. The pool pump requires GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter), which I think we have. What should we do, because the pool breaker trips over and over?”

If Your Pool Breaker Trips, You Don’t Need a Pool Company

Pool company maintenance professionals know a lot. What your pool maintenance team does is important. Clean pools prevent bacterial infections and other problems. Your pool equipment will operate more efficiently and last longer with proper pool maintenance.

Swimming pool electrical issues, especially if your pool breaker trips repeatedly, require a licensed Arizona electrician. The CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) documents swimming pool-related incidences that involve shocks and electrocution. Swimming pool fatalities can be caused by faulty wiring.

If you suspect you are experiencing electrical shock, exit the swimming pool immediately and try not to use the metal ladder.

Symptoms of electrical shock in the pool are:

Electricity Around Pools and Common Electrical Problems

Your swimming pool has numerous electrical components. It’s important to know where electricity is located in and around your pool area. Your pool, hot tub, or spa has electricity in or near:

Pool breaker trips indicate there’s a serious problem. Conscientious parents should keep kids out of the pool until your local electrician in The Valley has checked your breaker box, equipment, and GFCI.

Other electrical problems with swimming pools include:

Why You Need TIO Electric for Electrical Pool Problems, Repairs

If you want to keep everything pool-related with your pool company, that’s no problem. Just ask them to call 24/7 Local Electrician for licensed electrical contracting areas.

You’ll not find many recommendations for electrical DIY involving a swimming pool. Do you know which electrical wiring jobs for your swimming pool are DIY (do-it-yourself)? We don’t know either, but “none” sounds like the right answer.

24/7 Local Electrician professionals have experience with swimming pools…

Your safety is important to us. Please contact 24/7 Local Electrician with any questions involving swimming pool wiring or electricity .

15 steps to save electricity in your home

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 15:39:00 GMT

You likely take steps to save electricity. Most of us do. More than at any other time in history, our focus is on conserving energy and preserving our planet. Even people who could care less about carbon footprints care about saving money.

15 Smart Ways To Save Electricity

Installing a charging station in your garage for your new hybrid car won’t save electricity. But it can certainly help at the fuel pump, especially with gas prices significantly higher this year. One money-management website said hybrid cars don’t save money but they do save money – they significantly reduce your financial “pain at the pump.”

You know turning off lights and keeping doors shut are free and save electricity. But most people don’t realize how significant their energy savings will be if they reduce the water temperature at the water heater.

The modestwallet.com says there are ways to save electricity with upgrades that require an initial investment or professional installation. Only you can decide if the upfront outlay will justify the long-term savings.

Here are some familiar steps to save electricity and a few new ideas:

24/7 Local Electrician believes all of us should take steps to save electricity if possible. Some investments and upgrades will increase the value of your property and may qualify for exergy tax credits. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician and start saving today!

Why you have a tripped breaker

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 15:39:00 GMT

A one-time tripped breaker may occur and it’s nothing more than that: a tripped breaker. But if your breaker keeps tripping, there are several reasons. Angi (aka “Angie’s List”) offers explanations for why you might have a tripped breaker and what you can do about it.

When a Tripped Breaker Has You ‘In the Dark’

Your circuit breaker makes electricity possible in your house. Without it, the danger of fires would be too great to justify having electricity. Circuit breakers cut the power if your electric current surges. We call that “tripping the breaker.”

A tripped breaker can be a frustrating or even frightening experience. Common causes of a tripped breaker are:

Circuit Overload

Your electrical capacity tops out at a certain flow. It can happen while the washing machine is running, someone is microwaving, and another person is blow-drying hair.

The top appliances that cause circuit overloads are:

Ground Fault Surge

A ground fault surge occurs if a “hot” wire touches a grounded wire or any grounded part of your circuit breaker system. The electricity flow gets redirected to the ground.

Short Circuit

A short circuit is another response to your electric current going in the wrong direction. If a hot wire connects with a neutral wire in an outlet, the heat causes your circuit breaker to trip.

What To Do if Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping

When your circuit breaker trips, you simply reset it. You do this by looking into your circuit box and with dry hands, switching the flipped switch back to the “on” position.

If you see visible rusting in your breaker box, there’s been some kind of water damage and you need a professional electrician to inspect it. Any warmth coming from your breaker box is dangerous. If you see or smell any burning or melting in your breaker box, call 833-220-2525 immediately.

If your circuit breaker keeps tripping , causes include:

Sometimes we can repair or replace your circuit breaker box. It’s better to act on electrical issues sooner rather than later. You need to contact your Maricopa or Pima County electrician to safeguard your home and family.

You Need a Breaker Box Replacement If…

If your breaker box has fuses instead of circuit breakers, it’s old enough to warrant an upgrade. Any time there’s hissing or popping noises when you plug in an appliance, it’s dangerous, so don’t delay. Another clue you have electrical issues is when you have loaded power strips in your office or other rooms. If your lights flicker or dim when you turn on a vacuum cleaner, for example, you may need a breaker box replacement.

We ask our friends and neighbors (like you) to let us know when you’re planning a major renovation project that includes all-new kitchen appliances or the addition of a spa/hot tub. Your voltage requirements may exceed your wiring capabilities.

25 Years of Superior Electrical Service

24/7 Local Electrician was founded on the principle that our company’s superior customer care and integrity are never to be compromised. Our first consideration is always, “How can we help?”

When you need a electrical contractor with extensive circuit breaker experience, call the Electrician team. Our 24/7 Local Electrician office specializes in commercial as well as residential electrical services. Contact us to learn more .

Tucson lighting upgrades for your home

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 15:39:00 GMT

Are you thinking about monthly savings with energy-efficient retrofits? Perhaps you want to enhance the appearance of your home. Tucson lighting upgrades are one of the best home improvement investments.

LED Tucson Lighting Upgrades

The most energy-efficient electrical upgrade you can make is to switch to LED (light-emitting diode) bulbs. Since 1907, inventors experimented with and/or accidentally stumbled into LED technology. But it was 1962 before a practical application was found.

The tax credit (EPAct 179D) for commercial properties is now permanent. Lighting retrofits and other energy-efficient improvements for 2021 and beyond now qualify.

For homeowners, switching 5 incandescent light bulbs to LED could save $7.40 for one month. Again, that’s simply upgrading five lamp light bulbs.

Manage Monthly Energy Use With Timers

You can see (and feel) the price increases at the gas pumps. But residential energy costs are higher, too. The Energy Information Administration anticipates yet another 2.8% increase in retail electricity by 2022.

No energy savings ideas are too small because those pennies add up! Putting various household appliances on timers saves money.

Here are 6 creative ways to reduce energy loss with timers :

7 Lighting Upgrades To Increase Property Value

Some lighting upgrades are critical to showcasing your home, especially in a buyers’ market. Here in Tucson, lighting upgrades for your Pima Count that will increase property value include:

If you’re considering Tucson lighting upgrades for your home, contact 24/7 Local Electrician. We have ideas that are affordable and can save money while increasing your property value.

Don’t plan your project without 24/7 Local Electrician ! We’re eager to help.

Reviews for a Top Electrical Contractor

Sun, 01 Aug 2021 21:07:00 GMT

The expression “toot your own horn” is as all-American as apple pie. (Actually, the apples nor the pie originated here, but…) Other origins have been attributed to the toot-your-own-horn phrase but we like this one best. The Loveland Reporter-Herald says it was used in the Warren-Adams Papers of 1776:

“My motto is ‘Toot your own horn lest the same never be tooted.’ ”

24/7 Local Electrician wants to toot our own horn. If you need an electrical contractor nearby Valley communities, you need to know who to contact. You should put our information (phone 833-220-2525 ) in your cellphone under “E” for “electrician.”

Here’s why.

Online Ratings & Reviews Are Important When You Need an Electrical Contractor

When you’re researching a product or a service provider, what’s the first thing you do? You might ask a friend, neighbor, or relative but most people Google reviews and ratings.

Businesses put their own reviews online if they have a good website, but you must go beyond that. 24/7 Local Electrician’s website reviews are “tooting our own horn,” because they are very favorable. But that doesn’t make them any less honest than others.

We’re proud of our reputation for trustworthiness and superior workmanship because we’ve earned it.

When you need an electrical contractor, In fact, no matter where you are, if you have residential or commercial electrical questions and need expert help, you can contact 24/7 Local Electrician. Based on reviews, our company is your best choice.

5 Reasons to Make TIO Electric Your Electrician

1. Angi is better-known as “Angie’s List.” This trusted source includes our electrical contractor license information. We have 41 reviews on Angi and its 2020 Super Service award.

24/7 Local Electrician scores 4.9/5 stars.

2. The BBB (Better Business Bureau) is a recognized, reputable source.

24/7 Local Electrician scores 5/5 stars and an A+.

3. Birdeye is a relative newcomer to online reviews websites but its credibility was quickly established. We have 295 reviews on Birdeye.

24/7 Local Electrician scores 4.9/5 stars.

4. HomeAdvisor is a great go-to when seeking a residential service provider. We have 92 reviews on HomeAdvisor and its Best of 2020 award.

24/7 Local Electrician scores 4.7/5 stars.

Home Advisor cited 24/7 Local Electrician for superior:

5. Yelp is a terrific source for information about area businesses. It’s better than an old-fashioned phonebook. We have 196 reviews on Yelp .

24/7 Local Electrician scores 4.5/5 stars.

Yelp bases its ratings on things that matter. When you’re looking for any kind of product or service, including a local B2B (business-to-business) relationship, these are important:

You’re guaranteed these advantages and superior customer care with 24/7 Local Electrician, the electrical contractor.

We may be “tooting our own horn,” but we should. We deserve our high ratings and good reviews. And you deserve the best electrical contractor in the East Valley area. Contact us today.

How to fix aluminum wiring in your home

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 21:01:00 GMT

Electricity was introduced into North American homes in the late 19th century. Copper was considered the best material. During the 1960s, the cost of copper rose dramatically, and aluminum wiring was a cost-effective option. Even then, we knew it wasn’t the best choice, but it was affordable. We had no idea of the challenges when discovering how to fix aluminum wiring.

Why We Had to Learn How to Fix Aluminum Wiring

In terms of thickness and strength, smaller gauges are stronger. Before we switched to aluminum, copper wiring was 14-gauge. To compensate, we installed 12-gauge aluminum but we didn’t alter the way the wiring was installed.

We began to notice problems, especially with overheating. Standards were revised to accommodate the issues, but not until thousands of homes were constructed. Some of the problems were:

Pigtailing is a Temporary Fix

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says, “Unfortunately, failing aluminum-wired connections seldom provide easily detected warning signs. Aluminum-wired connections and splices have been reported to fail and overheat without any prior indications or problems.”

We decided the fix was to attach copper wiring to the aluminum connection. The process is called “pigtailing.” Copper’s strength and durability would be where it was most needed, at critical connection points.

When done properly, the connections and terminals are made properly and no damage is done to the aluminum wiring, it’s safe. If it’s not done correctly, an even greater risk of failure and overheating/fire can occur.

The Takeaway: Schedule a Whole-House Wiring Inspection

Rewiring your home is expensive. But it will increase the value of your home because the upgrade offers an additional safety factor. Aluminum wiring is a risk. A ding anywhere in the wiring can cause a hot spot that can catch insulation or the wiring itself on fire.

It’s worth it to ask your insurance company if replacing your wiring can lower your premium payments. But so many companies refuse to insure homes with aluminum wiring it may raise a red flag, especially if you opt not to rewire your home.

Your first step is to call 24/7 Local Electrician. Let’s schedule an inspection to determine if there are any high-risk wiring areas. Don’t let cost cause you to attempt electrical retrofitting or rewiring. If property damage occurs later after a DIY (do-it-yourself) wiring project, your insurance company could refuse coverage. Plus, you’re putting your family at risk. It’s never worth it.

Safety First With Local Electric

Following your inspection, we can create an affordable project plan that may include a payment plan or project phases. We can repair the most dangerous areas first then tackle the whole-house rewiring in more affordable segments.

24/7 Local Electrician provides residential and commercial service to the Phoenix Metro area including:

…and nearby communities. Contact us with questions.

Electrical Work FAQs for Arizona Homes

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 20:47:00 GMT

Over 4,000 injuries each year are caused by faulty electrical outlets. Shocks and electrical fires can be prevented by an annual inspection by your local electrician.

Electrical maintenance can prevent expensive repairs…more importantly, it may prevent injury or even death. Here are some electrical work FAQs (frequently asked questions) we receive:

Electrical Work FAQs From Homeowners

Q: How can I know if my house has an electrical problem?
A: Again, one of the reasons we urge our friends and neighbors (like you) to have an annual electrical check-up is because often, you don’t see, hear, or smell problems going on behind walls.

However, if you have any of these signs you have an electrical hazard, quickly call 24/7 Local Electrician:

( Another tip: One of the things we’re seeing more of are home offices. Often homeowners convert the guest bedroom or screen-off an area for work-at-home. They then add more electrical devices and create a power-strip jungle under their desks and behind printers. This is hazardous. We can help. )

Q: In Arizona, can we DIY (do-it-yourself) electrical wiring?
A: You can do your own electrical wiring if you don’t need to connect to the main electrical supply source and/or you have obtained the necessary permits (for example, a permit to work with a GFCI protected outlet ).

You also need to hire a licensed electrician to inspect the work after it’s complete.

If you intend to rent or sell your home, electrical work must be done by an Arizona licensed contractor. If a fire or other damages occur as a result of DIY electrical work, your insurance company can deny coverage. You may also be liable to lawsuits from injured neighbors or linemen.

Q: My utility bill is making me crazy. How can I reduce it?
A: Electricity is higher in Arizona than the U.S. average. Having APS (Arizona Public Service), SRP (Salt River Project), or Tucson Electric Power can make a difference in your rates. Here are some valuable, viable ways to lower your bill and save energy:

We Want to Be Listed Under ‘Electrician’ in Your Address Book

Don’t hesitate to ask us your own electrical work FAQs. When it comes to electricity and your home, what you don’t know can hurt you. That’s why we’re happy to spend time discussing your electrical concerns and answer any questions. Call or contact Local Electric any time.

What does a GFCI do

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 15:14:00 GMT

“What does a GFCI do?” is a question asked by property owners throughout Pima and Maricopa counties. A ground fault is an electrical path between an electric source and a grounded surface.

“GFCI” is the acronym for “ground fault circuit interrupter.” GFCIs monitor the flow of electricity.

Outdoor home and commercial property receptacles have been in compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) since the early 1970s. Later, bathroom and garage wall receptacles were included. It wasn’t until 1987 that the GFCI codes included kitchens.

What Does a GFCI Do and Where Does It Go?

If there’s an imbalance between the electrical current flowing through your circuit and the power returning to the circuit, the GFCI shuts off the electricity. This can prevent shocks and fire.

All breakers, circuits, sockets, and switches should be GFCI-protected for safety, especially in rooms where water is used. What is a GFCI device ? It may be the very thing that keeps you safe if there’s an electrical mishap.

There are 3 types of GFCI devices:

DIY Test for GFCI Outlets

Just as you schedule annual plumbing inspection and bi-annual HVAC maintenance, GFCI testing is something your local electrician does during routine maintenance.

You can DIY (do-it-yourself) test GFCI outlets:

Look at the outlet cover. Between the 2 plug-ins are two buttons, “test” and “reset.” (If it’s red, it’s the reset button. Test buttons are sometimes black.)

GFCI Tester

A GFCI tester has 3 lights that can tell you if the outlet is correctly wired. It can also reveal problems:

To use a GFCI tester:

If the power remains on, you need to replace the GFCI. A GFCI tester is a good investment for your home. Speak to your professional electrician about this.

Ask Questions Before You DIY

Knowledge is power. It’s okay to call 24/7 Local Electrician with questions about electrical wiring for your home or business. We’ll answer your questions honestly and we won’t try to “lock you into” electrical service you don’t need or want. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician to learn more.

Pendant lighting for your new home

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 15:04:00 GMT

Pendant lighting is the use of hanging or suspending a ceiling light fixture. It’s one of the more versatile types of lighting that can serve as an accent, general, or task lighting. These lights can be installed indoors or outside as part of a pool/patio setting.

Pendant Lighting and Other ‘Illuminating’ Home Improvement Projects

The way to determine ROI (return on investment) for any home improvement project is based on:

Electrical home improvements with the highest ROI include upgrading light fixtures and adding or upgrading ceiling fans for greater energy efficiency. In addition to being solid investments in your property value, these lighting improvements can qualify for tax incentives when they are combined with:

How and why you use pendant lighting is up to you. But there are many advantages to electrical upgrades as part of any home improvement project , including installing pendant lights.

Best Places to Install Pendant Lights

When it comes to pendant lights, odd numbers seem to be more eye-pleasing: 1, 3, 5… rather than 2 or 4. You can install pendant lighting in any room. But if you hang more than one light, allow for plenty of space between the fixtures; they shouldn’t appear clustered together.

Here are some of the rooms and ways many homeowners consider:

Chandeliers vs. Pendant Lighting

Chandeliers just look nicer in foyers and rooms with tall ceilings. So, ceiling height is a big consideration when deciding between chandelier and pendant lighting.

Use these measurements as a guideline:

Phoenix Safety-First Electrical Pros

24/7 Local Electrician professionals care about safety first. Your safety. Whether you choose a pendant or any other lighting style, using energy-efficient LED bulbs is important. Call 24/7 Local Electrician to learn more about home improvement lighting projects, security lighting/camera installation, or any other project you’re considering. We can discuss the turnaround time and your budget, then partner to make it happen.

Why ceiling fan direction is important

Sat, 29 May 2021 17:35:00 GMT

We all agree ceiling fans are terrific energy-savers. You can save power every season by coordinating your ceiling fan with your thermostat. They circulate cooling air or warmth throughout each room. Did you know ceiling fan direction impacts your comfort level?

How Ceiling Fan Direction Impacts Comfort

The benefits of ceiling fans are without argument. And the latest styles are attractive. Some can actually make your ceiling fan a room’s focal point.

In the summer, the fan blades should rotate counterclockwise. The air blows gently against your skin and creates a minor “wind chill factor.” This makes you feel cooler than you would without the fan. Your air conditioning system doesn’t have to work harder for you to keep your cool.

Hot air rises. When it’s cold weather, the ceiling fan direction should be reversed. The rotation draws cool air upwards and circulates the warm air downwards. This downdraft circulates warmth throughout the room.

Don’t DIY: Here’s Why

One of the reasons ceiling fan installation isn’t a DIY (do-it-yourself) project is you need to have advanced knowledge about electrical wiring. It’s not worth the risk to you or your family. And you won’t win anybody’s admiration if the ceiling fan falls on the family cat. Another reason is, if your DIY electrical installation causes a fire, your insurance company can refuse to cover the damages.

The fan and its light fixture require correct wiring. You must also have the appropriate UL-listed metal outlet box mounted above the ceiling. The box should be mounted at the point where the ceiling fan is connected. If you’re replacing a light fixture with a ceiling fan light fixture, the electrical box will probably need to be replaced.

Ceiling fans can weigh as much as 50 pounds. Balancing on a ladder, juggling the ceiling fan motor and anchoring it to a ceiling joist is challenging. If the joist isn’t in the middle of the ceiling, you’ll need a special mounting bracket with spiked ends installed between the joists.

Technology Advancements Save Money; Save the Planet

Everyone wants to save energy. Even the most narcissistic humans acknowledge saving energy saves money. It’s a win-win.

DC technology is gaining sophistication so you might consider installing a DC ceiling fan. The motor powers up when a small electrical current passes through a magnetic field coil. This results in a magnetic force that causes the motor to rotate the fan blades. A DC ceiling fan can save as much as 70% of the electricity used.

Smart home ceiling fans take convenience and savings to new heights. Your options are to upgrade a current ceiling fan or buy a new, smart ceiling fan. New smart ceiling fans cost between $300-$1,000. Both involve using a certified professional electrician in the Phoenix area.

Smart ceiling fans coordinate with your home’s Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. You can program them on your way home. You can pre-program them to turn on and off at certain times of every day. Your smart ceiling fan will use LED lights that offer degrees of brightness.

Other ceiling fan advancements include:

Local Electric for Home Electrical Technology

You want a technology-trained professional for your home improvement project. For Phoenix residential or commercial electrical projects , 24/7 Local Electrician is Maricopa County’s choice. Contact Local Electric today.

What to know when considering a home electrical rewiring project

Sat, 29 May 2021 17:27:00 GMT

In Maricopa and Pima counties, we have about the same number of new homes as we do 80-year-old homes. Most Phoenix-area houses were built between 1970-1999. But your home doesn’t have to be pre-World War II to consider electrical rewiring.

Electrical Rewiring Facts

Electrical wiring should last 50-70 years if installed correctly. A lot depends on prior renovations and the wiring’s sheathing. The wiring itself is a conductor. The “sheathing” is a flexible plastic material that protects the wiring.

You need electrical rewiring if your home’s wiring is ungrounded or damaged. Damaged sheathing can often be repaired. But ungrounded wiring means you don’t have a ground wire to connect the circuit to the panel.

Some of the factors that influence your home’s need for electrical rewiring are:

11 Electrical Warning Signs

If your home is more than 40 years old, it’s a good idea to ask your local electrician to inspect your home’s wiring. If your home’s rewiring is even older, there’s no need to wait for these electrical warning signs :

…Arrange for an electrical inspection this year.

State Farm * recommends periodic electrical inspections for any age home. Here are common situations that justify an inspection.

If:

…You should arrange for an electrical inspection sooner, rather than later.

Local Electric Services Include Electrical Inspection

Savvy homeowners have their heating and cooling systems checked fall and spring. Annual plumbing inspections are routine for many homeowners. You don’t have to wait for an electrical hazard to arrange for an electrical inspection. It’s just logical.

Your home’s probably your biggest investment and it just makes sense to protect it.

A residential electrical inspection includes checking for and testing:

24/7 Local Electrician serves Phoenix and Tucson-area communities. Our team is licensed, bonded, & insured. We invest in continuing education because technology moves fast: We want to be able to knowledgeably speak to electrical advancements that will improve your quality of life and save energy.

Contact Local Electric if you have questions. We’re passionate about your safety.
__
*24/7 Local Electrician does not recommend nor endorse any insurance service provider. This information is for educational use only.

Use a licensed electrician when adding a ceiling fan

Sat, 29 May 2021 16:58:00 GMT

As summer quickly approaches, adding a ceiling fan can keep you comfortable. It can lower your monthly HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) bill. Ceiling fans are feel-good energy-savers!

Adding a Ceiling Fan to Your Arizona Home

DIYers (do-it-yourselfers) are the most responsible, knowledgeable homeowners in the USA. They strive to learn about their homes’ systems: plumbing, heating and cooling, landscaping, electricity…all the things that keep a house safe and comfortable.

The most important thing savvy homeowners know is when not to DIY. When it comes to taking care of their homes, DIYers understand some upgrades are best left to the professionals. Adding a ceiling fan is one of those times.

Smart Homes, Smart Ceiling Fans

Modern ceiling fans aren’t pull-the-cord controlled. Just as you can program your thermostat before you arrive home, you can pre-program or manually input ceiling fan settings. If you have a smart thermostat (Nest, Ecobee, etc.), you can integrate your ceiling fan to your thermostat.

Smart ceiling fans operate with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth and cost anywhere from $300 – $1,000+. Some of the top-rated ceiling fan companies include:

When adding a ceiling fan to a room you can integrate with Alexa, Siri, Google Home, etc. Smart ceiling fans are programmable but they can also sense a room’s current temperature and choose the appropriate comfort setting.

Look for:

To control your smart ceiling fan, use:

Options for Adding a Ceiling Fan

You have a lot of considerations when you invest in a smart ceiling fan. Here’s what Smart Home Scout shares:

Before You Buy, Call Local Electric

The most common mistake homeowners make when adding a ceiling fan is buying the wrong size. A ceiling fan size is measured in “room sweep.” If your ceiling fan is too small, it just won’t get the job done. If it’s too big, it may feel like a swamp box fan.

But electrical wiring mistakes are the second most common mistake. Working with electricity is dangerous and simply not worth the risk.

If you prefer your current ceiling fan but would like to upgrade its operation, we can hardwire an electronic device inside your fan or replace your dedicated wall switch with another version that will connect and control your ceiling fan.

You want safety first for any renovation project. Our licensed electricians are technology-trained professionals. For ceiling fan installation in Maricopa and Pima counties, 24/7 Local Electrician is a smart home choice.

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician today.

Highest rated Phoenix electrician

Sat, 29 May 2021 16:52:00 GMT

Business owners used to say, “I don’t need advertising. I have word-of-mouth.” Today’s word-of-mouth advertising is Angie’s List. Facebook. Yelp. BBB ( Better Business Bureau ). Before you hire any service company, including a Phoenix electrician, research online.

Is My Phoenix Electrician ‘The Best?’

If BBB ratings and online reviews count for you, 24/7 Local Electrician is the highest-rated Phoenix electrician. An A+ grade and 5/5 stars are about as good as it gets. And the 24/7 Local Electrician professionals…Well, they’re as good as it gets for Maricopa and Pima counties.

Your Electrician: Local Electric

Some families keep attorneys on retainers. Most of us put our attorney’s phone number in our cellphone. (“On account of you never know,” said one Scottsdale resident.) You should do the same with your electrician.

Among the worst electrical disasters in Arizona history were:

Blackouts don’t usually cause damage but tell that to someone whose breaker box was fried following a loss of power and subsequent surges. Fraudulent companies and scammers are quick to capitalize on area-wide disasters. That’s maybe the most important reason to know your local electrical service company and put the information in your cell under “ contact .”

(Enter: New Contact, Electrician, 833-220-2525 )

Professional Electrician Careers in Arizona

The Local Electric team takes pride in our company and our quality of work. We wanted to be the best, and we made it happen!

We seldom have openings for electrical technicians, but we’re always on the lookout for the type of man or woman that is seeking career advancement with a terrific company.

If you have the following qualities, let us know:

Questions?

We care, we’re the best Phoenix electricians…and we can prove it! Call or contact 24/7 Local Electrician with any questions about electrical repairs, upgrades, or safety.

Tucson Lighting Upgrades: Everything You Need to Know

Wed, 05 May 2021 04:11:00 GMT

The majority of Tucson homes were built 1970-1979. This means Tucson lighting upgrades are at the top of home improvements in Pima County. Lighting upgrades depend on what you want and need.

Do you want smart upgrades that reduce energy and save money on monthly energy bills? Do you want to increase your property value? Would you like to simply make your home more attractive and comfortable?

You can have all of that this year with residential Tucson lighting upgrades .

Fifteen Trending Tucson Lighting Upgrades

Lighting choices “can make or break” a room’s design and mood, says Better Homes & Gardens. It’s true: Use these ideas to give your rooms a new look and save energy.

You’ll be surprised how good you’ll feel with these 15 Tucson lighting upgrades :

Turn It On Electric Is Tucson’s Choice For Lighting Upgrades

As you prioritize your home’s Tucson lighting upgrades , be aware of the savings you’ll see in energy charge (kilowatt-hours actually used) and demand charge (peak amount of electricity used). You want the maximum energy savings for the most affordable, attractive light fixtures .

Best Electrical Repair in Tucson

Wed, 05 May 2021 04:09:00 GMT

You’ve decided on some minor repairs and a few electrical upgrades to your home. These will increase your property value and add value to your quality of life. You’ve contacted a local company requesting installations and some level of electrical repair in Tucson .

A shabby-looking van pulls up and the service technician hops out wearing torn, dirty clothing and smoking a cigarette. Don’t open the door.

If service professionals don’t take pride in their company or personal appearance, how will they take care of your home and possessions? (They won’t.)

What to Look For: Professional Electrical Repair in Tucson

From the first communication to the electrical project’s completion, you should expect electrical repair in Tucson to be nothing less than professional and customer-care oriented. It should go without saying that you should receive superior quality electrical services, but that’s not always the case.

Look for an established business that’s here to stay. A service company that has been in business over the years is likely invested in your community. Shoddy workmanship and low customer satisfaction ratings aren’t even a possibility for your family’s local Arizona electrician.

Here are some things to look for when you’re planning a renovation project or need electrical repair in Tucson :

Local Electric: The Best Electricians in Tucson, Phoenix, & Scottsdale

For more than 10 years, 24/7 Local Electrician has been driven by customer care and safety. In order to be the best in a competitive business, we make recommendations based on what you need and what you can afford .

We also want your electrical work to be environmentally safe, so please ask questions. The more you know, the better your decisions will be. After all, we’re not “just” your service partner. We’re your neighbor.

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician today.

16 Ways to Save Power

Wed, 05 May 2021 04:06:00 GMT

There’s a sonnet: “How do I love thee? Let me count the ways…” All of us in Arizona love saving energy. It may be second-only to saving money.

Your 24/7 Local Electrician pros in Phoenix want you to do both. There are so many ways to save power! Most are easy and inexpensive.

Identifying Ways to Save Power…And Dollars

All ways to save power are smart. Some energy-saving tips are as simple as turning off the heating/cooling system and opening the windows on a nice-weather day. But smart technology has made ways to save power innovative and kind-of fun.

Many of these energy-saving tips will increase the value of your property. If you’re considering selling soon, energy upgrades deliver a very good ROI (return on investment).

Here are 16 ways to save power this year:

24/7 Local Electrician: Arizona’s LEED-Certified Electric Professionals

24/7 Local Electrician promotes efforts to save energy in Arizona. Our company is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified by the United States Green Building Council (USBG). We care about sustainable alternatives to increase energy efficiency in your home or commercial property.

If you have questions about ways to save power, contact us today .

Should You Install Recessed Lighting Yourself?

Wed, 05 May 2021 03:53:00 GMT

This could be the shortest blog ever shared. The answer to the question “Should you install recessed lighting yourself?” is no.

But wait. There’s more.

Can You Install Recessed Lighting Yourself?

Okay, you can install recessed lighting yourself. But you shouldn’t.

If your name isn’t “Bob Vila,” here’s why installing recessed lighting is not a DIY (do-it-yourself) project:

Legality

Laws vary, but in most Arizona cities and counties, you need a permit for electrical work. If you’re going to disconnect the electricity, you will need a permit.

In Phoenix, replacing a luminaire with a new one requires a permit. Replacing bulbs or a ballast doesn’t. If work is taking place to the wiring outside the luminaire, a permit is required.

Electrical work must be in compliance with the National Electrical Code. Even if you obtain a permit, if your house later fails an inspection, you’ll have to pay for a professional redo. You’ll not only have to pay to have the electrical do-over; you’ll have to pay for the re-inspection.

Risk

When you work with any electrical component, you risk electrocution and fire. A small shock is what happens if you’re lucky. There are “only” 30,000 non-fatal shocks every year. There are 1,000 deaths per year from electrical wiring shocks. Your risk is proportionately higher if you aren’t familiar with junction boxes and switches.

Faulty wiring can go undetected a long time and you’ll think you did the job “right.” Years later, when the insurance company researches the damages caused by the fire, if the damages resulted from your DIY electrical wiring job, they can deny coverage.

Safety

A licensed electrical contractor in Arizona completes 5 years and a minimum of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training. He or she must also have 900 hours of classroom training.

Your local electrician understands:

…Some of which is required to install recessed lighting in your Maricopa County home.

You can’t fix what you don’t see. There are hidden electrical dangers throughout your home. Most hidden electrical dangers are in the attic, the area most likely to come into play when installing recessed lighting.

You can’t do what you don’t know, either. Without education and training, most of us don’t know enough to install recessed lighting.

…Even Bob Vila knows when to use professional electricians .

Advantages of Recessed Lighting

Recessed lighting first appeared in the 1940s. What’s amazing is, recessed lighting has never been out of style.

Adventurous decorators can install one recessed light and use it as a downlight to illuminate a single, valuable item. Normally you have 3 or more installed at the same time. They offer a consistent light option in addition to better illumination. Kitchens and other work areas use recessed lighting as task lighting.

Perhaps the biggest advantage is recessed lighting makes rooms appear larger. It’s perfect for small rooms with low ceilings. Patios and outdoor recreational areas use recessed lighting because it’s a clean, uncomplicated look.

Really, the only thing “complicated” about recessed lighting is its installation.

It’s Tougher to Install Recessed Lighting

Some people believe installing recessed lighting is not worth it. In addition to the additional electrical challenges, one website said not to install recessed lighting because “You have to cut too many holes and they all have to be the same size.” They all must be the right size, too, or you’ll have an even bigger problem.

When you have your local electrical professional install recessed lighting, all the obstacles and challenges – including, legal, risk- and safety-related issues – disappear. The project will increase your property value, can save energy while providing additional light, and allow you the freedom of protection while enjoying your lighting upgrade.

Local Electric: What Have We Done for You Lately?

Some of the 24/7 Local Electrician projects in your community include:

What can we do for you? Tell us your thoughts. We’ll be honest about what’s affordable, what’s reasonable, and what will save you money. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician today.

What is Recessed Lighting?

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 19:32:00 GMT

Recessed lighting has made a comeback in a big way. This interior décor trend enhances homes and offices across the country. What is recessed lighting? What are the advantages or disadvantages of recessed lighting ?

What Is Recessed Lighting?

Recessed lighting is a light fixture installed into an opening in the ceiling. The light focuses downward and sometimes these lights are adjustable and dimmable.

Recessed lighting was developed in the 1940s but didn’t become popular until the 1970s. Their use dropped off until the 2000s. Now that we have LED bulbs and smart technology, recessed lighting is being installed like never before.

Recessed lights are also referred to as:

Older homes with recessed lighting installed 20 years ago may now have dropped ceilings. The original recessed lighting might be covered by insulation. This is a big fire hazard and needs to be managed by your local electrical contractor.

Recessed Lighting Components

The three parts of recessed lighting are:

Considerations: Lighting Colors

When you opt for a recessed lighting upgrade , the light color is a major consideration. Recessed lights can be dimmable but the primary color is important. The colors are measured in Kelvin.

How Many Recessed Lights Do You Need?

One general rule is to measure your ceiling and divide it by 2. That means if your ceiling is 8´ high, you should space recessed lights four feet apart.

Here’s another formula :

total sq. footage x 1.5 = total wattage needed

total wattage ÷ 60 watts (or the wattage you need)
= total amount of recessed lights

Example: 240 sq.ft. room x 1.5 = 360 ÷ 60 (bulb wattage)
= 6 recessed lights needed

Why Choose Recessed Lighting?

The advantages of recessed lighting are numerous. LED bulbs are 5 times more energy-efficient than traditional lighting. Recessed lighting improves your property value, but it also makes each room appear larger. This is a psychological advantage if you’re selling your home in a buyer’s market.

Recessed lighting is an affordable upgrade that delivers dramatic results; perfect for:

Recessed lighting installation is not a DIY (do-it-yourself) job. The code and wiring requirements for our area of Arizona should be followed. Also, if property damage occurs as the result of a DIY light installation, your insurance company can deny coverage.

The paperwork and peace of mind of professional overhead light installation are too valuable to ignore.

Local Electric: Your Project Partners

The national average cost for recessed lighting installation in 2021 is $130-$150 per fixture. This includes materials and labor. There are many variables that can affect the price. One is your location in the U.S. Other variables include the complexity of your structure and if your Arizona electrical contractor offers a bulk installation discount.

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician to discuss prices for recessed lighting installation in your home or commercial building. Your project is affordable and doable. Let’s get started!

Hiring an Office Electrician

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 19:28:00 GMT

There are many types of electricians. Some electrical contractors are licensed to perform various services, including commercial work. When you need to hire an office electrician in Phoenix and Tucson communities, you should compare.

Differences in Residential, Office Electricians

Residential electrical work should be performed by a licensed electrical contractor. Often, the rework and repair needed to salvage your cousin’s electrical work are more expensive.

Office electricians are commercial electrical contractors . They work with your IT (integrated technology) team and building maintenance. Office electricians work in residential settings. But not all residential contractors have the experience to work on commercial properties.

Commercial Office Electricians

Commercial electricians of Arizona must have:

In Arizona you must also have:

Commercial electrical services can include:

Residential Electricians

Residential electricians must have completed:

To carry the C-11 license, residential contractors must also complete 5 years (8,000+ hours) on-the-job training.

Residential electrical services can include:

Other types of Electricians

Basically, there are two main categories for electricians :

Other categories for licensed electricians include:

Office Electricians Have 3 Certification Levels

Residential and commercial electrical professionals are:

5 Reasons to Retain An Office Electrician

24/7 Local Electrician supports local businesses whenever possible and appreciates when others do the same. We have served Maricopa County companies and outlying communities for 25 years. We understand the challenges companies and property owners face and we will always work with you to solve problems quickly and affordably.

Even if your business is small, a dedicated property and office electrician makes sense:

24/7 Local Electrician commercial office electricians live and work in Phoenix Metro , Scottsdale , Tucson , East Valley and communities surrounding them. Contact us today to learn more.

Everything You Need to Know About Tucson Baby Proofing

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 19:24:00 GMT

Residential electrical accidents in Tucson are few and far apart. Pima County residents are diligent homeowners and even better parents. If you live in Tucson, baby proofing is something you care about.

Even if your children are in elementary school, don’t relax your guard for home safety. Tucson baby proofing is a good idea for any home in which children live and play.

Tucson Baby Proofing and Child Safety

Your kids, grandkids; all children visitors should be able to move freely and safely in your home. Here are some Tucson baby proofing tips for homeowners.

Get on the floor . Literally, lie on the floor in every room and look around to see what a crawler or toddler sees. If something might be dangerous, fix it. You don’t take chances when it comes to kids’ safety.

Falls are the leading cause of injuries in children.

Approximately 100 children die every year from electrocution .

Tucson Baby Proofing for Electrical Safety

Preparing for a new family member is an exciting time! And the time when they become curious crawlers isn’t far off.

The terms “wall outlet,” “electrical receptacle,” “plug-ins,” and “electric outlets” are synonymous. They are the most likely sites for electrocution. If your Tucson home was built after 2008, it has tamper-resistant electrical outlets. If your home is older, ask your local electrician to replace receptacles.

Here’s what you need to know about Tucson baby proofing and child electrical safety :

Powerstrips Increase Danger

Imagine a power strip from a baby’s perspective. Holes, cords, a flip-switch… It’s another version of a Playskool® learning toy to them.

There are several powerstrip issues .

First, if you’re using a lot of powerstrips, you need a professional electrical inspection. You may be overloading your wiring and need an upgrade.

The powerstrip’s unused outlets are a shock hazard. But toddlers can and will unplug what’s plugged in. Invest in a childproof power strip cover. Then duct-tape all gaps and cords.

Local Electric Offers Tucson Baby Proofing Inspections

A 24/7 Local Electrician pro will inspect your home and offer childproofing suggestions. Your electrician may spot other issues that need attention, as well.

During these inspections, we most often hear, “The baby won’t ever be alone in that room…” He or she will be in that room as soon as possible. Never take chances with children.

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician to schedule a Tucson baby proofing inspection today.

Can You Repair Your Circuit Breaker Box?

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 19:19:00 GMT

Circuit breaker boxes came into use in the 1960s and represented “a new age of resettable devices ,” unlike traditional fuses that had to be replaced when they blew. The newer, more technical terms are “ electrical service panel ” or “electrical panel.”

Circuit breaker box repair is also more technical today. It simply isn’t your grandma’s breaker box.

Circuit Breaker Box Repair and SES

To understand circuit breaker box repair, you must have a fundamental knowledge of SES (service entrance section). The SES is the outside electrical service point where electricity enters the house. Its components are one hot cable and 1 neutral cable that run from the utility wires to an inside entrance line. That line connects to the electrical service panel.

10 Signs You Need Circuit Breaker Box Repair or Replacement

If your electrical panel is more than 20 years old, you should prepare for replacement. The 2021 cost to replace an electrical panel is between $851-$4,000. The cost depends on your location, architecture, size of your home, and the number of circuits you need.

Wiring problems can sometimes be managed with repair, not replacement. You may need connections tightened or components replaced. If you have a Zinsco brand breaker box, it must be replaced.

Signs you need replacement include:

Common Causes of Electrical Panel Problems

Rust and corrosion are obvious signs of electrical panel problems. The two main causes of panel issues are inadequate capacity and overcrowding.

A ten-year-old home probably has a 200-amp electrical panel. That’s sufficient for an average residence. Homes built before 1990 and starter homes may have 100-amps. That’s not likely to be sufficient to accommodate today’s electrical devices and smart appliances. Overcrowding and inadequate capacity occur when you’re trying to pull 200-amp service from a 100-amp panel.

The Best Way to Avoid Circuit Breaker Box Repair

Savvy homeowners retain a local, trusted and experienced electrical contractor. Your electrical maintenance company will track your home’s inspections, upgrades, and remind you when it’s time for your annual inspection. You’ll never be surprised because you’ll know exactly what’s going on with your home’s electrical system.

It’s a small investment that can prevent major expenses.

The best way to avoid circuit breaker box repair is to contact 24/7 Local Electrician. Our team of electrical service professionals is eager to partner with you for safer, more energy-efficient living.

Is Aluminum Wiring in Homes A Safety Hazard?

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 18:19:00 GMT

Most of the houses built in Tucson were built between 1970-1979. In Phoenix, the majority of housing properties were developed between 1990-1999. Throughout our state, the median home age is between 30-40 years old. Aluminum wiring in homes has a bad reputation, and some of it is well-deserved.

Aluminum Wiring in Homes: What You Need to Know

Aluminum wiring in homes was improved in the early ’70s to enhance safety. It was completely phased-out a few years later. Some service wires coming into homes today, as well as 240-volt circuitry, have aluminum wiring. It’s fine.

The danger comes from “aluminum branch circuit conductors installed from…1965 to 1972,” says a Minneapolis home inspector. The wires that support 15- and 20-amp circuits, connecting to outlets, switches, lights, etc., “had a lot of problems.”

Why You Should Consider Rewiring Your Home

Over half of home electrical fires are due to wiring problems. There are many reasons to consider rewiring , but you may not need it. Before you make the investment, have your local electrician check. Perhaps aluminum wiring in homes did not affect your Arizona home’s construction.

Warning signs you need to replace your wiring include:

Even if you don’t have any warning signs, having a home electrical inspection is just smart, especially if you know you have aluminum wiring.

Consider inspection by your Arizona licensed electrical contractor if you:

The cost to rewire your home depends on where you live. Materials, labor, and cost of living impact the cost of electrical rewiring as much as house size and style. Pandemic-related material shortages and supply chain issues have impacted many businesses in 2021.

You Can Trust Local Electric

Maintaining your home’s electrical system shouldn’t wait until you’re selling or buying. 24/7 Local Electrician serves Maricopa and Pima counties as well as nearby communities and neighborhoods. We recommend you schedule a complete home electrical wiring inspection every 5 years.

Residential and commercial property owners trust us for honest appraisals: If you don’t need the work or it can wait a bit, we’ll tell you. If you’re going to need it sooner rather than later, we’ll tell you that too.

Real estate professionals trust us to deliver superior quality work. Contractors trust us to deliver our work on-time and within budget. You can trust 24/7 Local Electrician.

If you have questions, contact us today.

6 Ways to Save On Your Electricity Bill

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 18:08:00 GMT

Now more than ever, Maricopa County residents are seeking ways to save energy. Electricity rates have been scheduled to increase – and delayed – for quite some time. Phoenix residents may be looking at a 3.9% price increase by mid-2021 and other areas, including Tucson will see a $4.93 per-month rate hike.

Continue to use all the tips you know for ways to save on your electricity bill. But there are some smart options that can make a very real difference in your energy usage and quality of life.

Save on Your Electricity Bill with Smart Home Devices

Have you heard about “energy vampires?” They’re the home appliances that suck electricity, even when they’re not being used. “The worst culprits,” says home security pro Emily Ferron “are… devices with standby modes , like TVs.”

Consider these 6 smart home devices that will help you save on your electricity bill:

Saving Money, Electricity, and Protecting You: Why We Care

24/7 Local Electrician of Arizona cares about friends and neighbors – like you. We want you to save money and live comfortably. We want to help you find ways to save on your electricity bill. But we also want you to live safely and affordably.

Here’s why we care: Today, the team of professionals at 24/7 Local Electrician live here with you. We’re invested in our company, our families, and our communities. We’re invested in you. But we also want your legacy – your children and their children – to live their lives in a clean environment.

Contact us or call with questions about ways to save on your electricity bill or smart home device installation. You’ll never be sorry you called us, but you might regret that you didn’t.

Benefits of a ceiling fan switch

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 18:02:00 GMT

Your ceiling fan has two chains and invariably, you turn the light off when, in fact, you want to turn the ceiling fan on. Or you tug the chain twice and it generates a whirlwind in the room. A ceiling fan switch solves both problems.

Quit Yanking Your Chain with a Ceiling Fan Switch

We like vaulted ceilings in Arizona. They are charming, have an “old-world” elegance, and if they offer plenty of natural light, can add value to a property. Some people think vaulted ceilings are a waste of space and energy.

If you have a vaulted ceiling, enjoy the natural light and add a ceiling fan because it conserves energy and costs about $12/year to operate. But you’ll need a ceiling fan switch. And the wiring may include working with cross-beams and drywall finishing. It’s a job for your local professional electrician .

Advantages to Ceiling Fans and Smart Switches

Ceiling fans are energy-savers. When you enter the house on a hot day, it’s tempting to adjust the thermostat to cool down. Turn on your ceiling fan first. Ceiling fans don’t actually affect room temperature, but they affect how you feel. They also can lower your heating bill if you have a reverse switch.

“To me, having to manually reach up and pull the pull-chain on a ceiling fan is as awful as having to manually lift up your garage door,” says Eric Blank. But it isn’t practical to toss out your old ceiling fan if it works well.

Blank says his ideal ceiling fan has:

You’ll have the best opportunity for customization if you install a separate light switch and ceiling fan switch on the wall. You can have wall-mounted fan-speed control; a “smart” process, but the convenience of manually adjusting fan and light.

Don’t DIY. Just Don’t.

The thing is when you’re wiring a ceiling fan switch, what seems logical – like using a dimmer switch that’s already in place – doesn’t work. You can’t use a dimmer switch for fan speed control.

If you don’t know what you’re doing, you’ll buy one of those WiFi switches that are sold as “fan controllers.” They don’t have the required circuitry to control a ceiling fan motor. The noise is the best thing that happens as a result; the motor damage is often beyond repair.

Fiddling with electricity is risky. And risking property damages that your insurance company won’t cover because of your do-it-yourself ceiling fan switch installation is a problem. Electrocuting the family pet is worse; much worse.

Local Electric: Smart Electricians for Arizona

It’s just smarter to install smart controls throughout your home.

If you’d like to install a ceiling fan, you’re not stuck with a saloon-type rustic fixture. Ceiling fan styles are so interior-design savvy that some are room focal points.

If you want to upgrade your ceiling fan fixture, let’s discuss the possibilities. 24/7 Local Electrician wants to make any home or office renovation exciting and affordable. Call or contact us today to learn more.

Homeowners guide to ceiling fan installation

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 17:49:00 GMT

There’s a lot to love about ceiling fans! For those of us interested in conserving energy while improving IAQ (indoor air quality), a ceiling fan installation is a logical upgrade to any room. Today’s ceiling fans are 60% more efficient, thanks to improved motors and blade designs.

5 Advantages of Ceiling Fan Installation

Five benefits of ceiling fan installation are:

Quit Pulling Their Chains

You don’t have to yank the chain – and inevitably, you grab the wrong chain – then tug it once, twice…no, that’s too much like a whirlwind, so you begin the chain-pulling process anew.

Ceiling fans are much smarter these days. You can say, “Alexa, turn on fan.” And Alexa will cheerfully say, “Okay!” You can operate with a Bluetooth-enabled ceiling fan installation. You can turn it on before you reach home to begin cooling-down a room or rooms.

One ceiling fan model exceeds ENERGY STAR requirements by a whopping 450% and comes with integrated LED lights in 16 brightness levels.

What You Should Know

Remember, you’re only saving energy by-the-room and if someone is in the room. Don’t run ceiling fans randomly throughout the house. By raising the thermostat and using a ceiling fan, you will maintain the same level of comfort for less energy.

We respect and admire homeowner DIYers (do-it-yourselfers) because they make informed decisions. The smartest DIYers know when to call a professional.

Ceiling fan installation is one of those times:

Call 24/7 Local Electrician

Any ceiling fan or overhead lighting installation is a job for a professional electrician. Protecting your family and your property is your first concern. It’s ours, too.

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician for more information.

5 Tips for Light Bulb and Ballast Replacement

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 01:37:00 GMT

Facilities managers and property owners don’t always understand light bulb and ballast replacement.

Light bulb and ballast replacement also saves money by lowering energy bills. If you’re new to facilities management or commercial property maintenance, ballasts can be confusing.

What You Need to Know About Light Bulb and Ballast Replacements

“A ballast is the functional heart of a fluorescent or HID light source,” says lighting pro Terri Duncan. The ballast ensures a light bulb stays lit by managing the distribution of energy throughout the fixture.

1. Not all light bulbs require a ballast. Halogen, incandescent, and LED bulbs do not require a ballast, but some LEDs are engineered to work with your existing ballast. (LED ballasts are called “drivers” and every LED needs a driver to operate.)

Fluorescent and HID (high intensity discharge) bulbs require a ballast.

2. There are two types of ballasts for light bulb and ballast replacement: magnetic and electronic. Electronics are usually more energy-efficient and cost-effective.

3. For light bulb and ballast replacement you must know the type of light, quantity (1-4), and voltage.

4. You can DIY (do-it-yourself) some – not all – light bulb and ballast replacement and management:

5. You need an electrician for ballast and light replacement. One FAQ (frequently asked question) on AskingLot.com is, “Do I need an electrician to change a ballast?” The answer is always yes.

If damages occur as a result of your DIY ballast and light replacement, your insurance company can refuse to cover repair/replacement costs.

Signs you have a bad ballast are:

24/7 Local Electrician Is Your Light Bulb and Ballast Replacement Company

Retail businesses especially depend on service providers that can work after-hours. But sometimes light bulb and ballast replacement has to take place during store hours.

That’s why so many businesses prefer 24/7 Local Electrician . If business interruption is necessary, we will work as quickly as possible to get you back to normal. We’re respectful of your need to give customers and clients their space. Quietly. Efficiently. Safely.

Creating a maintenance schedule for your commercial property can minimize emergencies. It can also save money. Your electrical applications will provide maximum output and better energy efficiency.

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician if you have questions about commercial electrical service, including light bulb and ballast replacement.

4 Upgrade Lighting FAQs

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 01:18:00 GMT

Our focus on comfort and energy savings is like never before. We want our homes, offices, and retail businesses to be inviting and eco-friendly.

But there’s an excitement surrounding interior lighting décor that’s energizing. Some trends are revealing unique concepts in home interiors and commercial properties’ lighting. If you’re thinking about upgrading your lighting this year, it’s a big project and one that will pay off in several ways.

The ROI (return on investment) of commercial lighting improvements is measurable:

Homeowners can see those ROI benefits in residential lighting upgrades, too.

There’s also something Amerlux calls “the possibility factor.” When you upgrade any area’s lighting, you increase the number of ways it can be used. Some things that weren’t possible before the upgrade now seem to be viable.

Here are four upgrade lighting FAQs (frequently asked questions) we recently received:

4 Upgrade Lighting FAQs

1. Q: Are there any new tax credits for upgrading lighting or electrical systems?
A: The two tax incentives that expired have been extended and are retroactive through December 31, 2020. There will likely be tax incentives available this year as well.

2. Q: I’m a new facilities manager. Is there anything special I need to know about lighting upgrades?
A: The most important thing to know is commercial lighting installation or upgrades are not a DIY (do-it-yourself) project. If damages occur because of unlicensed non-professional work, the insurance company could deny coverage.

Specifically, facilities managers should study and know:

3. Q: What are some of the residential lighting trends for 2021?
A: Some of the residential lighting trends to watch (or even better, consider for your home) include:

4. Q: What lighting improvements are most Arizona homeowners making?
A: In 2020, lighting and overall electrical improvements (like installing more outlets ) trended. Popular lighting upgrades continue to be security lighting and “smart” lighting. Installing outdoor motion/security lights, walkway lights, and being able to operate light fixtures from your phone improves safety (and can be fun).

This Year’s Lighting Décor Possibilities Are Energizing with Local Electric

24/7 Local Electrician works with interior designers, other contractors, and home improvement weekend warriors. Together, we can effectively and safely create a new look for your home or install exciting lighting in your new home build.

If your questions weren’t included in these upgrade lighting FAQs, please let us know. Contact us to learn more about ways to upgrade your lighting this year.

4 Electrician Jobs FAQs

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 01:14:00 GMT

If you’re looking for a job by a licensed, certified electrician, contact 24/7 Local Electrician . We serve Maricopa County, Pima County, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tucson, and nearby neighborhoods and communities. We don’t consider a job well-done until you say we did a good job.

If you’re looking for a job as an electrician, contact 24/7 Local Electrician . We serve Maricopa County, Pima County, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tucson, and nearby neighborhoods and communities. Our values and culture attract only the best employees. If that’s you, read on and discover our electrician jobs to learn more.

Electrician Jobs FAQs

1. Q: How can you tell an electrical services contractor is “the best?”
A: Ask your potential employer how many call-backs the company had last year. Too many call-backs indicate poor quality work.

Community involvement is another indicator that a company is invested in its business enough to promote itself through good works or support.

Finally, look at awards/testimonials, etc. 24/7 Local Electrician has favorable ratings with:

2. Q: How does a good electrical services company communicate?
A: Communication skills are vital to electrical services professionals. Here’s why:

3. Q: How is work scheduled?
A: Emergencies don’t keep office hours. A good electrical contractor company is available 24/7. Local Electric technicians take turns being “on-call.” That means, just like doctors, when you’re on-call you have to be available and able to work responsibly with short notice.

4. Q: What’s it like to work at TIO Electric?
A: The owner of Turn It On Electric has been working in Maricopa and Pima county communities for over 25 years. He understands the challenges faced by working “in the field.” He knows how electrical contractor projects can become stressful. You’ll not only work with your 24/7 Local Electrician team . You’ll be working with other contracting companies, commercial property owners/managers, and homeowners.

The About Us tab on Turn It On Electric’s website features biographies about each member of the team because that’s what we are: A team. No one person is more valuable than another. Every employee drives our business. Your ideas for better productivity and ways to increase our customer base will be respectfully evaluated. You’ll have job security if you have a customer-first attitude and excitement about what we do.

Have More Electrician Jobs FAQs?

We care about our company and the people that make it great.

NASA’s Carl Sagan said, “There is no such thing as a dumb question.” It’s true. What you don’t know can prevent you from making good career choices. If our electrician jobs FAQs didn’t answer all your questions, let us know. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician to learn what kinds of job opportunities are available.

Working with a Residential Electrician in Tucson, AZ

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 00:56:00 GMT

Every remodeling project or new-home build involves working with contractors and subcontractors. “The most common problems that homeowners experience on remodeling projects are cost overruns, missed deadlines, and results that don’t match their expectations,” says HomeAdvisor. “And almost every time, such problems stem from miscommunication.”

Hiring the best Tucson electrician is possible. When working with a residential electrician in Tucson, communication before and during the project is essential. Start by asking questions.

10 Questions to Ask A Residential Electrician in Tucson

Maybe this is the year you’re finally building your own home. Perhaps you’re planning a renovation project or an electrical lighting upgrade.

One way to avoid problems when working with an electrical contractor in Tucson is to ask questions :

Pay Attention to Red Flags

Here are several signs you’re dealing with the wrong residential electrician in Tucson:

Is electrical outlet repair a DIY job?

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 23:59:00 GMT

With the exception of changing a light bulb, most electrical jobs involve wiring. And no electrical wiring job – including electrical outlet repair – is DIY (do-it-yourself).

Signs You Need Electrical Outlet Repair

An electrical outlet is the wall receptacle that connects an electrical device plug to the electricity supply . They can be installed in floors and ceilings but are usually installed in walls.

There are different types of electrical outlets. Travelers often need adapters to convert the voltage in European outlets to accommodate U.S. electrical devices.

8 Signs you need electrical outlet repair include:

When you believe electrical outlet repair is needed, you must contact a professional electrician. Some electrical outlet repair situations require immediate attention, but all of them are dangerous. Don’t delay.

Why You Need a Licensed Electrician for Electrical Outlet Repair

First, there’s really no such thing as “electrical outlet repair.” If you have problems, you need an electrical outlet replacement , not a repair.

Almost everyone understands DIY electrical wiring is risky at best. You risk damaging your property. You also risk serious injury and even death. It’s not worth the risk.

What many people don’t know is if you DIY an electrical project and later a fire or other damages occur that can be traced to that job, your insurance company can deny coverage. You need to be able to prove a licensed, insured, and bonded electrician did the work.

Local Electric: Solutions for Maricopa County

24/7 Local Electrician inspects and replaces commercial and residential property outlets for Phoenix, Scottsdale, and nearby neighborhoods. In addition to being licensed and bonded professionals, we are also LEED-certified. This means we will offer sustainable, energy-saving options that will save money and increase your property value.

We recommend GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets for every property. If there’s a problem with the electrical flow, GFCI outlets shut off. If you have GFCI outlets but your home is older than 10 years, it may be time to replace them.

Our company believes in safety first. For our friends and neighbors with small children and grandchildren, we recommend tamper-resistant outlets.

Let’s plan this year’s electrical upgrade project before electrical emergency service is needed. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician for a free consultation.

Hire an electrician to add overhead lights

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 23:59:00 GMT

“Color temperature” is the way we describe the appearance of the light emitted by a lightbulb. The temperature is measured in degrees (Kelvins) from 1,000-10,000. When adding interior lights to homes and commercial properties, decorators choose color temperatures to deliver ambience or purpose.

Some of the Kelvins to consider if you plan to add overhead lights include:

How to Add Overhead Lights

When you want to add overhead lights to a room, consider the room’s purpose and location. For example, you can enhance overhead light fixtures’ illumination with natural daylight.

To add overhead lights to larger rooms you may be able to mix-and-match. You could use warm white (3,000K) for the primary lighting and smaller, cool white (4,000K) light fixtures above workspaces and task sites.

Kitchens are a good example of ways to integrate and add overhead lights effectively. Warm, welcoming overhead lighting is perfect for the heart of your home. Then add overhead lights to your task areas; the sink and the counters. (The best “overhead” lighting for kitchen counters are under- cabinet lights .)

10 Types of Overhead Lights

The type of overhead lighting you choose is as important as the type of bulbs. Together, they form a partnership to convey a mood; a “feel.”

FYI:

2 Reasons Why You Need an Electrician to Add Overhead Lights

Here are two reasons why you need to hire a licensed electrician to add overhead lights – or to do any electrical wiring job – in your home or business.

1. Danger

An apartment manager hired an unlicensed electrician to upgrade washer/dryer 3-prong receptacles to 4-prong. The “electrician” replaced the receptacle without hooking up to a ground. A dangerous situation was created.

2. Death

The apartment tenant then decided to DIY (do-it-yourself) install his washer/dryer. He accidentally installed one of the “hot” wires to the ground screw. It sent 120 volts of electricity to the frame of the dryer. He then touched the water line for the washer while touching the dryer frame.

If the receptacle had been properly wired in the first place, it would have tripped the circuit breaker.

Local Electric: Licensed, Bonded, Insured

Before you add overhead lights, let’s discuss staging and wiring. We want to be sure your ceiling can support the type of lights you’re considering. 24/7 Local Electrician professionals are trained to complete every type of light installation.

When safety is important, contact 24/7 Local Electrician. For us, your safety is always important.

Are there ways to lower the electricity bill?

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 23:59:00 GMT

There are lots of ways to lower the electricity bill. If your home is “total electric,” simply cut off the HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) system. You may freeze in January or shrivel up like a prune and die in August, but you’ll lower your electric bill.

Here are ways to lower your electricity bill without discomfort or sacrifice.

28 Ways to Lower the Electricity Bill

Energy-reduction strategies, like “smart” devices for your home’s heating and cooling management, can be measurable ways to lower the electricity bill. Behavior changes can also lower your electric costs. Your household members must be taught to not let the hot water run and to turn off lights when not in use.

Here are some ways to lower your electric bill. Perhaps not all will work for you or your lifestyle, but some are very helpful:

Convert Inside, Outside Lighting

You can save $600/year by simply switching from incandescent bulbs to LED (light-emitting diodes). Incandescent bulbs need replacement several times a year and LED bulbs last for years . They also cost less per-month to use.

If you have outdoor lighting that is left on for long periods of time, using CFLs (compact fluorescent lamps) or LEDs in outside fixtures will save a lot of energy (and money), according to Energy.gov. Bare spiral CFLs can often be used in enclosed fixtures that protect them from the weather. CFLs and LEDs are also available as floodlights.

Let’s Talk Lighting

24/7 Local Electrician professionals are licensed, bonded, and insured. But maybe, more importantly, we have experience.

Continuing education helps us utilize new technology to provide energy-saving lighting options to our commercial and residential customers. We believe knowledge is power, and the “best” customers are the ones that make informed decisions.

So, let’s discuss what lighting choices would enhance your property. We can upgrade outside safety lighting and/or install motion-activated security systems. Perhaps you have a big event planned. Deck, patio, and pool lighting can be focal points with professional installation.

Or maybe it’s time to make your living space more of a showplace (and less of a habitat). New lighting fixtures can do just that.

There are ways to lower the electricity bill and increase your property value. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician today to discuss the lighting possibilities for your home or office.
___
*Professional installation/maintenance is recommended/required

The best way to add lighting to a room

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 23:59:00 GMT

You’d think windows would be the best way to add lighting to a room . But knocking out walls is expensive and the sun doesn’t always cooperate anyway. The most reliable and effective way to add lighting to a room is to do it yourself.

4 Ways to Add Lighting to a Room

With every room in your home or apartment, ask yourself what you want to achieve. Do you want a comfortable setting for watching television? Do you want a room that is inviting and impresses visitors? Do you want to add accent lighting to a room or do you want the lighting itself to be the focal point?

Room-By-Room Light Additions

Kitchens can represent form and function if you have the right lighting.

If you love working in the kitchen, you know how under-cabinet lighting is an amazing tool for food prep. Pendant lamps are fun and versatile, and they work well above sinks, islands, and tables.

“Consider uplighting your kitchen for a luxe touch that’s worth every penny,” says home interior writer Melissa Epifano. It offers a soft glow to the room. It also highlights designer cabinetry and other attractive areas.

Whether it’s a formal or casual livingroom, when you add lighting to a room it becomes your own statement. “Table lamps are great, but…a large lantern, oversized pendant, or sculptural floor lamp ” can add a focal point, says Epifano. Definitely consider dimmer switches for kitchen, bedrooms, and living room. Dimmer lighting sets the mood perfectly.

Nothing is more fun than a chandelier. The designs today are so exciting. You can choose from understated elegance or light-sculpture chandeliers for livingrooms.

Don’t forget the bathrooms. If your bathroom is where you partially dress or apply makeup, vanity lighting or adding mirror lights are best.

Bathroom overhead lighting, with its harshness and odd shadows, are detriments to your daily preparations. Ask about daylight-simulating light bulbs. This offers the best possible way to add lighting to a room in which you apply makeup.

The Best Way To Add Lighting To a Room

Plugging a lamp into a socket is safe enough (unless that socket has too many power strips and extenders attached). But for beautiful, professional ways to add lighting to a room, you should partner with your local electrical services company.

If you live in an older, historical home, the behind-the-scenes wiring can be tricky. And with today’s technologies, lighting additions can be more – and do more – than turn on and off. 24/7 Local Electrician lighting pros are safety-minded, licensed, and bonded electricians.

We’ll work with your new-home or renovation contractors and interior designers to deliver the look you want. We can also team with you and your ideas. Let’s look at the possibilities! We can add lighting to a room, several rooms, and make plans for external lighting upgrades in the new year.

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician and share your lighting ideas with us.

What to do when your circuit breaker keeps tripping

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 00:27:00 GMT

If your circuit breaker keeps tripping, it’s a major red flag, especially if it’s caused by your home office or kitchen appliances. Your circuit breaker keeps tripping because your electrical system is warning you something’s wrong. It’s trying to protect you from electrocution and fire hazards.

6 Reasons Why Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping

NFPA also says the majority of electrical home fires are caused by arcing. “Arcing” is what happens when a circuit is overloaded. When your circuit breaker keeps tripping, it’s a warning that overloading may be an immediate threat. If you ignore it, the damaged circuit breaker will stop tripping and allow electricity to flow, causing a fire.

Reasons your fuses (older homes) or circuit breaker keeps tripping include:

Scottsdale & Phoenix Licensed Electrician

Any electrical problem in your Scottsdale or Phoenix-area home is not something you can DIY (do-it-yourself). It’s never worth the risk of injury to your loved ones or property. Also, if damage occurs later your insurance company can deny coverage if you didn’t use a licensed electrician for repair or maintenance.

If you have a circuit breaker that keeps tripping , it’s time to call the professionals at 24/7 Local Electrician . We understand the need for affordable electrical work, but your well-being is our priority. We’ll tell you what you need now and what you may need later, but we won’t compromise your safety.

Let’s discuss your options. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician today for a safer new year.

Hiring a Phoenix licensed electrician

Sat, 12 Dec 2020 16:20:00 GMT

A Phoenix licensed electrician is the only electrical contractor you should call for residential or commercial electrical repair . However, there’s more accreditation and certification your local electrical maintenance and repair company should have to prove competency and accountability.

Why Choose a Phoenix Licensed Electrician?

You can’t work as an electrical contractor in Arizona without a license. But that doesn’t stop normally logical property owners from hiring their neighbor’s uncle. After all, he works cheap.

Probably the most important reason to choose a Phoenix licensed electrician is liability. Your insurance company may refuse to pay claims for damages resulting from DIY (do-it-yourself) or your neighbor’s uncle’s electrical wiring.

What Does It Mean if an Electrical Contractor is ‘Bonded?’

When you request multiple quotes (a good idea) and one company is much lower than the others, look before you leap. The underpriced may not be bonded.

“Bonded” means the company has a surety bond in place. A surety bond tells you that this licensed electrician is so confident in their work they’re willing to guarantee your project. It’s a promise to satisfactorily complete the job. It’s also a backed-up commitment to follow the regulations governing a Phoenix licensed electrician.

Ask About Insurance

What if your Phoenix-area contractor’s employee is injured while working inside your home or business? What if you or a loved one is injured? Do you have recourse if the contractor damages furniture or flooring?

Always ask about insurance. Your Phoenix licensed electrician should have two types of insurance : worker’s compensation and a general liability insurance policy.

After you have received a copy of the insurance, call the insurance company to verify your electrician’s insurance is up-to-date. If you don’t and you have damages… One Realtor put it bluntly: “You are probably screwed and will have to chase them through the courts to get compensation.”

How to Find a Bonded, Insured Phoenix Licensed Electrician

You can just ask electrical contractors if their company is licensed, bonded, and insured. But then you need to follow-up. Ask to see copies of all three before any work begins.

24/7 Local Electrician’s contractor license for the State of Arizona has been active for almost 20 years. The Registrar of Contractors (ROC) number is 265179.

Even though a licensed Phoenix electrician is bonded and insured, that’s not a guarantee of quality work. Be sure to check Home Advisor and other online testimonials and references. (The 24/7 Local Electrician Home Advisor rating is 4.6/5 stars. We have been awarded the Elite/Top Service and Screened/Approved citations.)

We have an A rating on Angie’s List, an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Most importantly, we have your best interests at heart. We understand when money is tight, so we’ll make your quote as affordable as possible because your family’s safety comes first.

Today, residential wiring offers many options. 24/7 Local Electrician electrical technicians receive ongoing technical training so we can offer you the best choices.

24/7 Local Electrician is LEED-certified . LEED is the earth-friendly building standard of the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). Saving energy while enhancing comfort is a priority.

There are no “dumb” questions. Contact us anytime you need information about electrical repair or maintenance in Maricopa and Pima counties.

What you need to know about a Scottsdale licensed electrician

Sat, 12 Dec 2020 16:08:00 GMT

Looking for a Scottsdale licensed electrician for your family home or commercial property can seem challenging. It isn’t, really, if you do your homework. When you won’t compromise quality, safety, or comfort, you’ll discover there’s one Scottsdale licensed electrician that can meet your needs.

What to Look for in a Scottsdale Licensed Electrician

Scottsdale property owners look for an electrician that has the expertise and experience to serve them now. But they also want a company that will be here later. A company that’s an established business takes responsibility for its quality of work.

There are 2 types of electrical contractor licenses ; commercial and residential. It’s an advantage if your Scottsdale electrical professional has both.

Here are some requirements you should have for your Scottsdale licensed electrician :

24/7 Local Electrician: The Scottsdale Electrician

24/7 Local Electrician technicians are licensed, bonded, insured, and professional. We are committed to ongoing technical training and protecting our environment.

We can make your home more energy-manageable:

Energy saving improvements increase your property’s value. These are good investments for you and our planet.

We want to partner with you. Together, we can make informed decisions about what’s best for your residential or commercial property electrical project. Contact us anytime you need information about electrical repair or maintenance in Scottsdale and Maricopa County.

Hiring the best Tucson electrician

Sat, 12 Dec 2020 16:01:00 GMT

The annual Tucson Lights event uses over 250,000 LED lightbulbs. That’s a lot of electricity. But it’s one of the best displays of its kind, and Tucson deserves the best.

If you want the best Tucson electrician for residential and commercial service, call 24/7 Local Electrician . Our company is excited to be able to serve Pima County and Tucson-area communities.

Finding ‘The Best’ Tucson Electrician: What to Look For

If you base your choice of Tucson electrician on price alone, you’re likely creating a formula for failure. When companies underprice their services, it’s seldom a good deal.

Often, by the time you realize you’ve made a mistake, the Fly By Night Electric Co. is out of business. You paid for poor workmanship and lower-quality materials. Now, you must pay more for a do-over by a reputable Tucson electrician.

Here are six tips for finding the best Tucson electrician:

24/7 Local Electrician is The Tucson Electrician For YOU

The 24/7 Local Electrician team of professionals has served Phoenix and Maricopa County over 10 years. We’re excited to be able to offer our residential and commercial electrical services to the Tucson community.

Our new office is located at 1 S. Church Avenue, Suite 1200, Tucson.

The office is new but the quality of knowledge and expertise we bring to Tucson is based on traditional customer service values. We can handle all your electrical needs; no job is too small or too big.

We’ve got you covered:

Call us or contact 24/7 Local Electrician to connect with the best Tucson electrician today!

Photocells for Christmas lights turn on/off automatically

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 17:40:00 GMT

The holiday season is right around the corner, and no matter how you celebrate, you are in for a lot of fun. From delicious dinners with your loved ones, to exchanging gifts to decorating your home, there’s a lot to look forward to during this time of year. However, it can also be a lot of work, leaving you stressed and exhausted at the end of the day. Photocells for Christmas lights can take one of many tasks off your plate to lighten the load just a bit.

Alternatives to Photocells for Christmas Lights

Christmas lights are notorious for using up a lot of electricity, sending your energy bills sky-high at a time when you’d likely rather be spending your money on other things, like gifts for your friends and family. With photocells for Christmas lights, you can easily control your lights automatically to minimize energy usage.

If you don’t have photocells for Christmas lights, you’ll have to turn your lights on and off yourself. For most people, the likelihood of forgetting to turn the lights off at least a few times over the course of the season is incredibly high. The longer the lights stay on before you remember to turn them off, the more you’ll pay for electricity.

You may have the option of adding timers to your lights, but they can sometimes be confusing to operate. This is especially true if you have Christmas lights from different brands, giving them different types of timers. If you like to hang a lot of lights, a single timer probably won’t be capable of controlling all of them, requiring you to install even more timers.

Simplify Your Holiday Season with Photocells for Christmas Lights

To save yourself the stress and hassle of operating your lights manually or with timers, try photocells for Christmas lights. Photocells are small light-sensitive panels that meausre the ambient light around your home. When it gets dark outside, photocells for Christmas lights trigger the lights to turn on. Then, when the sky begins to lighten again in the morning, your lights will turn off automatically.

While this may seem like only a minor benefit, it can go a long way towards simplifying your life during this incredibly busy season. And when you combine it with our under eaves outlets, it can really simplify the season. Not only that, but it can also help you save money by not running your lights when they are not needed. You can then put those savings to better use in caring for your loved ones or giving back to your local community.

Other Uses for Photocells

Christmas lights are prime locations for photocells, but you can use them on other types of lights as well. Try photocells on your landscape or pathway lighting to add curb appeal in the dark.

While you’ll often see photocells for exterior lights, they can also work well in indoor settings. For example, under-cabinet lighting in your kitchen or bathroom will do well with photocells to control their operation. The same goes for nightlights and other light fixtures in children’s bedrooms.

Install Photocells for Christmas Lights at Your Phoenix Home

When you are ready to add photocells for Christmas lights to your holiday decorations, the 24/7 Local Electrician team is here to help. We are proud to serve customers throughout the Phoenix area with our dedicated electrical services. We invite you to reach out to our team at any time to learn more about our Christmas light service. We’ll get your home decked out and ready for the holiday season, so call now to get started.

Add overhead lights to any room

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 17:29:00 GMT

Most of us have had the unfortunate experience of being somewhere with poor lighting. Whether at a friend’s home, a lodging establishment, or even your own home, bad lighting can have a serious impact on your mood. Lighting that is too bright or too dim for the task at hand can also make it challenging to get through your daily activities and hobbies. If you add overhead lights to your space, though, you can not only illuminate the room, but also create ambiance and set the mood.

Create the Perfect Lighting for Events

With the holiday season coming up, you may be considering hosting your loved ones for a meal or other get-together. The right overhead lighting can fill in any gaps left by floor lamps, table lamps and other light fixtures. Take care when you add overhead lights that they are not the only lights in the room. This can create harsh shadows, particularly on faces, so you’ll want to include additional lights at varying heights to complete the lighting design.

To create a festive mood for any occasion, you can add overhead lights with dimmers , enabling you to adjust the brightness to suit the vibe you want to achieve. Many modern overhead lights also include smart capabilities, allowing you to program various lighting designs for future use. You can even program some of them to change automatically throughout the day as the natural light changes. With some lights, you can change the colors as well to create a truly festive, fun atmosphere for your party.

Focus on Your Hobbies or Work with Overhead Lighting

If you’re like many Arizona residents, you’ve been spending more time at home these days and may even be working entirely from home. This may have brought to your attention the need to add overhead lights to make it easier to get your work done. When you are struggling to see detail in your work or hobbies, even simple tasks can suddenly become incredibly challenging and far less enjoyable.

When you add overhead lights in your work area, you can target the areas where you need it most so that you can focus on important tasks. Again, be sure to round out your lighting design with a desk lamp, floor lamp or other fixture to prevent extreme shadows that can obscure your work.

Improve Your Interior Aesthetic

You don’t just need to add overhead lights for specialized tasks and occasions; great overhead lighting can transform the entire look of your space, no matter what you are doing.

To determine where you could get the most benefits from adding overhead lights, spend a bit of time in each room in your home at several points throughout the day. This will give you a better sense of how the lighting changes in each room as the sun moves across the sky.

Take note of any areas that seem especially dim or where your mood seems to dip. With better lighting, you’ll not only beautify the space, but also make it more enjoyable for spending time in. This way, you can actually relish spending time at home, as the lighting will be much more conducive to positive moods.

Trust Us for Your Overhead Lighting Needs

When you are ready to add overhead lights to your Arizona home, the experienced electricians here at 24/7 Local Electrician are here to help. Reach out to us today for a free consultation to discuss your lighting design. We’ll be happy to add overhead lights for you, running any new wiring as needed. Call now to get started .

Easy install Christmas lights with eave outlets

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 17:14:00 GMT

Putting winter holiday lights up and taking them down is actually dangerous: about 5% of homeowners decorating their homes for the holidays had accidents .

Do you know that family that never took down their outdoor holiday lights? Here’s why: Dad had an accident the day he planned to take them down and decided they’d best be left up…until next year.

The outdoor lights weren’t exactly installed attractively in the first place. Dad wasn’t known for his handyman expertise. (In June, the HOA began sending complaint letters about the visible orange extension cord tangles in the yard.)

If holiday lights for eave outlets had been used instead, Dad’s DIY (do-it-yourself) light show might have gotten better reviews.

Consider Holiday Lights for Eave Outlets This Year

Plainly put, extension cords are dangerous. Too many homeowners use indoor extension cords to connect outside lighting. Or they plug one extension cord into another extension cord; doubly dangerous.

The Electrical Safety Foundation says to never run extension cords on the ground. They might come in contact with snow or water. Really? It may not rain much, but it does rain in Arizona.

The solution to safety – and a more attractive light display – is installing eave outlets. It’s easier than you think.

Holiday and Outdoor Lighting: Now’s the Time

To save money and energy, it’s best to have your outdoor (and indoor) lights turn on at dusk and off at bedtime or midnight. You’ll need some kind of remote-controlled or auto-on system for your external lights. Some Phoenix-area homeowners’ eave outlets connect to a switch or timer within easy reach.

This also might be the time to consider installing LED or motion- activated security lights under the eaves of your home.

If you’re planning to add outdoor outlets anyway, do a complete walk-around of your property. Could you use some ground-level outlet installations ? What about your back yard or patio area?

You may not be planning large-scale entertainment this year, but senior family members need good visibility when navigating from the driveway to the sidewalk, to the front door. Pathway lighting is a good investment.

Now’s the time to get it done.

What You Need to Know About Eave Outlets

Safety first. You don’t need to climb on the roof or a ladder to measure for eave outlets. Your local electrical professional can get all the necessary measurements.

Have these numbers handy if you know them:

Your Phoenix electrician can explain about the amperage requirements for eave outlets. This depends on the types of outdoor lights you prefer. If you don’t live in a castle, 2-4 outlets for the front and 1 per side might be adequate.

30 Reasons Local Electric is Your Electrical Contractor

When it comes to the winter holidays, especially this year, we say, “Get your gaudy on!” Holiday lights cannot be overdone. But injuring yourself hanging outdoor lights is no “dad joke.” (Pun intended.) This year, 24/7 Local Electrician pros will also help you hang your outdoor holiday lights and take them down.

We’re proud to be the Maricopa County electricians for residential:

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician today if you would like more information about eave outlets. Let’s work together to get your home holiday-ready.

Save on your electricity bill during the holidays

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 16:58:00 GMT

There’s a lot to consider when it comes to holiday spending, but have you ever thought about ways to save electricity? “Post-holiday energy bills tend to be higher than in previous months due to the increased use of appliances, lighting, water and heating consumption,” says the Department of Energy .

This year more than ever we want our winter holiday celebrations to shine brightly! Here are some tips to make your home warm, inviting, and still save on your electricity bill this holiday season.

Winter Holidays 2020: 5 Ways to Save on Your Electricity Bill

You can still cut down on costs without limiting your holiday lighting . One way is to put outdoor and inside decorative light displays on timers.

1. Put your lights on timers

You’ll save on your electricity bill if you program your lights to come on at dusk and shut off at bedtime (or midnight). Not keeping your indoor tree lit all night is also a safety precaution.

2. Use LED bulbs

If you haven’t switched to LED light bulbs, now’s the time. The benefits of LED lighting are numerous. They use 70% less energy and last ten times longer. You’ll save on your electricity bill immediately and because of their durability, you’ll also see long-term energy savings.

LED bulbs are so versatile you can use them almost anywhere. In fact, “smart” LED bulbs can be remote controlled.

3. Change thermostat settings

The average December/January temperature in our area is between 44°-65°. You can save on your electricity bill by proactively managing your thermostat, or by installing a smart thermostat.

You can take advantage of “sweater weather” at home but keep in mind: Holiday cooking, additional lighting, and increased numbers of people in your home can substantially raise the indoor temperature.

4. Additional security

One area you shouldn’t neglect during the holidays is security lighting . Photocell lighting is easy to control. Actually, it controls itself because it turns on and off based on the amount of light it senses.

5. Holiday travel

Use a travel opportunity as another way to save on your electricity bill. Before you leave home for several days or longer, take these energy-saving steps:

Questions? Connect with 24/7 Local Electrician

Holiday lighting sets the stage for this magical time of year. You have many choices for indoor and outdoor decorating with lights. It’s not unusual to have questions, so don’t hesitate to connect with 24/7 Local Electrician of Arizona.

We’re available to discuss home holiday lighting for decorations or safety. We’ll share ways to save on your electricity bill and visit your home if you are concerned about wiring problems.

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician for all electrical decorative and safety electrical needs.

Hire a professional for your electrical outlet install

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 05:16:00 GMT

There are many reasons why you might need an electrical outlet install for your home or business. For example, you might be constructing a new home and wish to choose exactly where the outlets will be. Similarly, you could be renovating your property and need a new electrical outlet installed to replace one lost in the renovations.

Or you may simply be looking to make your Phoenix home more functional and convenient. Whatever your reasons for needing new outlets, you should always call in a licensed, professional electrician for your electrical outlet install .

Protect Your Property and Loved Ones

Any type of electrical work, including an electrical outlet install, can be fraught with peril. When you are dealing with exposed wires, there is always the risk of electrocution.

Is it really worth risking your life or that of your loved ones over a simple electrical outlet install? Undoubtedly not. With a professional electrician, you can sit back and relax, knowing that everything is taken care of. Both in the moment and for the long haul.

Minimize the Risk of Electrical Fires

Electrical fires are one of the most dangerous aspects of working with electricity. When outlets or wires give off sparks, they can ignite your carpet, curtains, furniture, or other items, potentially spreading the fire quickly throughout your home. Professional electricians are highly trained to prevent electrical fires and get them out quickly on the rare occasions they do occur.

Ensure the Work Is Done Properly on Your Electrical Outlet Install

One of the biggest risks in doing electrical work on your own is making mistakes. Even with careful research and meticulous attention to detail, you still run the risk of doing something incorrectly. The less experience you have, the more likely you will be to make significant errors during your electrical outlet install.

Even tiny mistakes can come back to haunt you in the future. The outlets may stop working entirely, or they may spark, increasing the risk of fire and electrocution. A professional electrician will make sure the job is done right the first time.

Gain Access to New Safety and Performance Features

Although electrical outlets may appear simple, they are actually more complex than you might realize. In addition to simply providing access to electricity, they can also add important safety measures and improve performance.

One of the most commonly requested of these features is tamper-resistant outlets. Young children are notorious for sticking items into electrical outlets, putting them at risk for electrocution. Tamper-resistant outlets cover the ports when not in use and can only be operated by pressing all ports at the same time when plugging something in. This simple feature is powerful for keeping your kids safe, so be sure to ask for it during your electrical outlet install.

Call Us for Your Phoenix Electrical Outlet Install

For electrical outlet installation you can trust in Phoenix, reach out to 24/7 Local Electrician . Our team is here to help with all your electrical needs, from initial installation to ongoing repair to full replacement. We’ll be happy to provide a free consultation to discuss your electrical needs.

When you work with us, you can rest assured that you are in the best, most experienced hands. We are proud to be the preferred electrical service provider in the Phoenix area. That pride is evident in each and every service we complete.

We take your satisfaction and safety seriously, so you can count on us for a job well done. Reach out to our team today to make an appointment to review your home’s electrical requirements and upgrade your system with new outlets.

When is it time for electrical outlet replacement?

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 05:08:00 GMT

Have you been meaning to get around to electrical outlet replacement but haven’t yet? This seemingly small home maintenance task may appear insignificant. But in the grand scheme of things, it is actually much more important than you might realize.

Not only are faulty outlets inconvenient, but they can also be dangerous. Here’s what you need to know about electrical outlet replacement and why it needs to be on your to-do list today.

Why You Need to Replace Bad Outlets

When one of your outlets isn’t working properly, it can be easy to fall into the trap of ignoring it. You simply use other outlets instead. However, faulty outlets are at much greater risk of sparking or catching fire, potentially putting your home and loved ones at risk.

What’s more, if your outlets are linked to one another, a single bad outlet could render even more of them useless. While this probably isn’t dangerous, it can definitely be inconvenient.

When You Need Electrical Outlet Replacement

In general, outlets last about 15 to 20 years before they need to be replaced. But the specific timeline depends on a variety of factors, including frequency of use and types of appliances. Modern electronics have higher energy demands than those of the past, so they can sometimes overwhelm older outlets.

Even if your outlets have not yet reached the 15-year mark, they may still need to be replaced. Faulty parts, incorrect wiring, and other complications can lead your outlets to stop working. Be on the lookout for crackling or sparking noises, unusual smells, and power fluctuations to identify when it’s time for electrical outlet replacement.

Inspect Your Outlets Regularly

The best way to keep all of your electrical outlets working properly is to keep up with regular inspections and maintenance. Electrical work can be highly dangerous, so it is always best to work with a professional electrician. Here at 24/7 Local Electrician , we are proud to serve the Phoenix area with our electrical services , including electrical outlet replacement.

If you are concerned about the state of any of your outlets, or are simply seeking some peace of mind, our team will be more than happy to schedule an inspection for you. We’ll come out to your Phoenix home to identify any outlets that are in need of repair. We’ll let you know which outlets you’ll need to replace and which can be fixed without requiring electrical outlet replacement.

Use Electrical Outlet Replacement to Upgrade Your System

When you replace your existing outlets, you’ll likely be getting a serious upgrade in terms of electrical technology. This means that you’ll get better energy efficiency, which could save you money on your utility bills. You’ll also gain access to additional features, like USB charging ports, safety capabilities, and more.

One of the best modern safety features is tamper resistance. With tamper-resistant outlets, you can have confidence that your children are not in danger around your outlets. The ports are covered when not in use. They prevent babies and kids from sticking toys, sticks, or other items into the outlets. A slightly higher outlet cost is a small price to pay to ensure your children’s safety, so be sure to consider this option during your electrical outlet replacement service .

The 24/7 Local Electrician Difference

When you work with us, you can rest assured that you and your property are in good hands. We are committed to excellence at every turn, from our electrical outlet replacement and inspection services to our friendly customer service.

Reach out today for electrical outlet replacement and all your other electrical needs.

Indoor/outdoor ideas for holiday lighting in general

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 04:57:00 GMT

Our emotions and feelings of wellbeing can be shaped by holiday lighting in general. Fall and traditional year-end celebrations give many of us an excuse to use holiday decorations to add more excitement both indoors and outside.

And as days grow shorter, we tend to increase holiday lighting in general. And why not? Let’s light up our streets and spread some cheer!

Types of Holiday Lightbulbs

These include:

Outdoor Holiday Lighting in General

Every neighborhood has at least one home in which the owner puts small white lights in every bush and tree for a winter holiday. It’s snowy wonderland vibe that’s timeless! They’re attractive, uplifting, and celebrate every day with holiday lighting in general.

Popular Mechanics defines outdoor lighting for holidays in 3 easy-to-remember styles:

1. Holiday Classic

Tasteful but celebratory, the “ holiday classic ” style of exterior lighting uses symmetry to put white LED lights along gutters/eaves, windows, and on large trees or shrubs. The three main types of LED white lights are:

Avoid bright-white bulbs unless you like the deer-in-the-headlights approach to décor, says PM magazine. Try warm-white lights on the house and polar-white lights on trees and shrubs. The two tones work well together and provide dimension.

2. The Delightful Monstrosity

What Clark Griswold didn’t understand was the difference between “garish” and “festive.” The number of lightbulbs and the color impact holiday lighting in general.

Go with “multicolored strands along the gutter. Beneath that, hang a string of icicle lights,” says PM magazine. Different-size bulbs create greater visual interest. “Bigger C9 bulbs are best installed along the roofline and gutters; C7s are better for around windows and doors…Wrap your mailbox, too, if you’ve got easy access to electricity.”

3. The Minimalist

The minimalist hangs a real pine wreath on the front door. It’s illuminated by an E17 LED warm-white spotlight. And that says it all in a simple fashion.

Indoor Lighting Sets the Stage for Fall and Winter

This year’s holiday lighting in general needs to convey comfort. When choosing lights for interior decorating, pay attention to the strands’ lengths and how many strands can be connected to one outlet.

Talk to us about the best indoor lighting! See the options:

Holidays are Happier When Safety is a Priority

As with all things electrical, professional service is the best way to protect your family, friends, and property this time of year. Before you risk overloading your circuits, please ask us what your safest options are for holiday lighting in general.

Need help with setup for all the fall and winter festivities? You’re busy, so let us help. You’ll have the holiday home you’ve dreamed of – without all the hassle. Our licensed electricians know how to make your indoor and outdoor spaces secure and bright.

Contact 24/7 Local Electrician today for experienced, trustworthy electrical service. And give the gift of light to your friends, family, and neighborhood this holiday season!

Improve security with a photocell during the holidays

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 04:46:00 GMT

The fall and winter season will be in full swing before we know it! In addition to Halloween and Thanksgiving, there are seven other December holidays celebrated. And more! Time to think about how to improve security with a photocell during the holidays.

With plenty of guests around your home, safety is important. You want everyone to have merry and happy festivities and memories. Ensure they do with a photocell.

U.S. Fall and Winter Celebrations and Traditions

Here’s a fairly new one: “ Chriskwanzukah ” celebrates all our traditional winter observances. It’s an opportunity for parents and teachers to discuss religious diversity.

Some Americans believe in another winter religious holiday – the Superbowl. Whatever you observe, there’s plenty of reason to get together. Let’s party as the days get shorter and cooler.

The winter events give us a reason to improve security with a photocell during the holidays. From trick-or-treaters lining porches to annual family gatherings. From New Year’s parties to football games… Homes are safer at night with better lighting.

How to Improve Security with a Photocell During the Holidays

The best way is to improve security with a photocell during the holidays. Photocells are sensors that detect light. They are used in many toys and appliances. They are low-cost, easy to use, and long-lasting. These are sometimes called “CdS cells” (cadmium sulfide), “LDRs” (light-dependent resistors), and “photoresistors.”

When a photocell is lighted, electrons are emitted from one side to another. This way, the current can be transferred. How does this help improve security with a photocell during the holidays ? Because they are easy to control. Actually, they control themselves. Their on/off functions are determined by the amount of light they sense.

‘Ins and Outs’ of Security Lighting

There are two basic types of photocells: plug-in and line-voltage. Plug-in photocell sensors are located inside the bulb. Line photocell sensors are likely to be located elsewhere. Both work equally well, though.

You want effective nighttime illumination wherever people will walk. This includes guests and unwanted intruders, too. Some great outdoor locations are:

Photocell lighting is sometimes called “dusk-to-dawn” lighting. (Daylight savings time won’t affect your outdoor photocell security.) Some types of photocell lights include:

Year-End Lighting Home Improvements

You want to protect your home and family. But you also want to safeguard others on your property. Lighting home improvements are always a good idea. Taking action to improve your property and quality of life increases property value and safety.

Want to improve security with a photocell during the holidays? Have an LED lighting system in place? Good for you! LED lighting is economical and durable. But you’ll need to contact your local, Arizona electric service professional to accomplish your year-end security lighting goal.

“Because LEDs run at such a low voltage, this small current causes interference, flickering, and premature degradation,” says lighting blogger Eugen. “LEDs require a different type of photocell than conventional bulbs.”

What you don’t know can hurt you. We’ll make electric safety even safer. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician today to create a festive, protected space for your family and friends this holiday season.

Installing an electric vehicle charger

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 03:00:00 GMT

“EVs are here. Try to keep up,” says Charged , the magazine for electric vehicle enthusiasts. Thinking you might install an electric vehicle charger at your home? We get it. There’s a lot to like.

Hybrid and plug-in electric vehicles are much faster. What’s more, they can increase energy security and improve your fuel economy. They also lower fuel costs and reduce emissions. It’s a decision you can feel great about. But it comes with a challenge.

Some drivers say the real setback of EV ownership is charging. There’s the inconvenience of finding a station and making that chore part of your routine. Today, we’ll talk about why you need to install an electric vehicle charger in your home. Keep reading for a few of the top reasons.

Advantages of Installing an Electric Vehicle Charger in Your Home

Here’s the bottom line: Charging an electric vehicle at home has undeniable perks. You’ve got to think about how often you’ll need to charge up, the costs to use public chargers, and protecting your EV and yourself.

Here are the top three advantages to an in-house EV charging station:

1. Convenience

It takes about 4-6 hours to charge your EV with a Level 2 charger. If you have an early-morning road trip planned and your electric car is low on battery, a night-before trip to a public charging station is necessary.

Are you comfortable dropping your car off at a charging station for 6 hours? What if there’s a line? By the time you wait in line and finally plug-in, you may be thinking the day trip isn’t worth it.

2. Cost

When you charge your electric vehicle elsewhere, you must purchase battery power. The costs can vary widely in Arizona. Installing an EV charger at home uses the energy service you presently have. Plus, you’ll save money making trips to a public charging station.

The type of charger you purchase may influence the cost of installation. Hiring a certified electrician for installation is necessary, especially if you purchase a Level 2 charger.

3. Safety

EV charging at home is safer for your car and you. You must have the right equipment and you need an EV charger installation by a certified electrician.

Installing an electric vehicle charger in your home is not space-specific. Your whole-house electrical system is involved. For example, Level 2 chargers require a dedicated 240-volt circuit. If the one circuit in your garage powers a freezer, you’ll need another source or a new circuit.

Invest in Your Home and Our Future

Reducing gas- and diesel-vehicles’ pollution is important to global residents. Phoenix-area residents also want to reduce energy costs. Because Arizona’s electric vehicle charging costs are unregulated, EV owners find themselves faced with too many uncertainties about charging expenses. Of course, we’re highlighting a way to care for the environment and keep costs low while maintaining maximum convenience and safety.

24/7 Local Electrician believes it’s important for our friends and neighbors to control costs whenever possible. That’s why installing an EV charging station in your home may be the best investment you’ll make this year. Contact us to learn more about the advantages of in-home EV charging today.

Is an affordable licensed electrician a myth?

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 02:59:00 GMT

Electrical issues in your Phoenix home or business can certainly be worrisome. So can the idea of an affordable licensed electrician .

Troubles with your electrical system could put your property and your loved ones, along with your customers and staff, at risk. Of course, you’ll want to tend to the matter as quickly as possible. Especially when it comes to potential electrical fires and electrocution.

You need experts to help. Those budget constraints can sometimes make that challenging, though. Where do you turn? Keep reading for the safest, most affordable path.

Finding an Affordable Licensed Electrician

Unfortunately, some electrical contractors are disreputable, often overcharging customers for even the simplest of services. This can understandably lead customers to be concerned about costs. And definitely distrustful of electrical service providers. This is why it is so important to choose a reputable, licensed company to do the work.

Cost Concerns in Electrical Work

To help things go as smoothly as possible and fit within your budget, you’ll want to find an affordable licensed electrician . While unlicensed contractors may offer similar services at cheaper rates, you tend to get what you pay for in terms of quality. Shoddy work that is rife with cut corners and shortcuts could end up costing you even more in the future.

Without the peace of mind of working with an affordable licensed electrician, you could be stuck with the costs of repairing unsatisfactory work. Not only that, but you could be putting your property at risk. Unlicensed electricians aren’t held to the same standards of quality and safety as licensed workers. While you might save a bit of money upfront, you run the risk of much higher costs later. You’ll have to fix the damage and get the job done properly.

What’s more, your homeowners’ insurance may not cover your claims. If the work was not done by a licensed professional, they may deny coverage. This means that you could be forced to cover the entire cost out of pocket. Wouldn’t it make more sense to pay just a little bit more for a licensed electrician than to gamble with your financial security?

There’s more than one way to think about affordability here.

The 24/7 Local Electrician Difference

The good news? Affordable licensed electricians aren’t a myth. They exist.

Here at 24/7 Local Electrician , we’ll send an affordable licensed electrician to your home every time. We can handle any residential, commercial, or emergency electrical work. We’ll be there if you are having an electrical problem you need to repair right away. And we’re also available to upgrade your electrical system to handle modern technology.

We pride ourselves on providing high-quality services at reasonable rates. If you are looking for an affordable licensed electrician, your search can end with us. We do everything in our power to keep our costs down so that we can provide competitive rates that work within your budget.

Contact Us Today

We are firm believers that every Phoenix homeowner and business should have access to a high-quality, affordable licensed electrician in their time of need. We keep our rates as reasonable as possible. And we’ll still provide the exemplary workmanship and friendly customer service our clients expect from us.

Reach out and learn more about our electrical services. When you are in need of an affordable licensed electrician you can trust, you can count on us to deliver. Call today to schedule an appointment for a free consultation.

Why you need a licensed electrician

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 02:56:00 GMT

If you’re like most Phoenix homeowners, you’ve had some form of an electrical issue on your property. But maybe it’s not clear yet why you need a licensed electrician on your side every time.

Perhaps you’ve had to replace faulty GFCI outlets or upgrade your wiring for safety purposes. You might have run new cables for a home theater system or installed solar panels to deliver clean energy.

For any of these, other common household electrical tasks, and emergencies , you should always call in a licensed electrician to do the job. Keep you and yours safe from the beginning of any project, throughout the process, and onward.

The Dangers of Not Working with a Licensed Electrician

Many homeowners prefer to complete any repairs and upgrades themselves, whether to save money or simply because they enjoy working with their hands. However, electrical work is not something that you should attempt to do on your own. It is a highly specialized task that can be fraught with danger if you don’t know exactly what you are doing.

Aside from the possibility of electrocuting yourself, you may make mistakes in the process due to inexperience. This could leave you with faulty wiring, potentially exposing your property to the risk of electrical fires. In the event that something goes wrong, your homeowners’ insurance may not cover the work, as it was not done by a licensed electrician.

You may also have considered hiring an unlicensed electrician due to lower prices for the same tasks. This is a mistake as well, as unlicensed service providers may cut corners and take shortcuts in order to keep their costs low. This can result in shoddy workmanship, low-quality materials, and other potential problems that could be even more costly to repair in the future.

The Benefits of Choosing a Licensed Electrician

When you work with a licensed electrician , you are virtually guaranteed high-quality work. In order to maintain their licenses, these electricians must consistently demonstrate that they perform work properly and within legal and safety guidelines. While unlicensed companies may follow proper safety protocols, they are not required to. Is that really a risk you are willing to take?

One of the biggest concerns that can be addressed through choosing a licensed electrician is a liability. If something does go wrong with any of the electrical work in the future, you’ll want the electrical contractor or your homeowners’ insurance to cover the cost of the repairs. Most insurance companies, though, will only pay out if the electrical work was completed with a permit. This is something that is only available through licensed electricians.

For your safety and peace of mind, you must work with a licensed professional. The initial cost may be a bit higher than it would if you hired an unlicensed electrician or did the job yourself. However, it is well worth it for the safety of your home and loved ones. And affordability is still a factor – even with the best electrical contractor around.

Trust 24/7 Local Electrician for All Your Electrical Needs in Phoenix

We are proud to be your licensed electrician contractor. We always follow the latest safety protocols and guidelines. Trust us to work hard to stay at the forefront of the electrical industry. And to provide our clients with high-quality materials and skilled workmanship. We truly care about our customers and do everything in our power to ensure complete satisfaction.

If you need any kind of electrical work done, you can count on us to get the job done right. Reach out today for a free consultation. We’ll gladly provide you with a no-cost, no-obligation quote for the job.

How surge suppressors can save your electronics

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 04:07:00 GMT

Electrical surges are always caused by lightning strikes or transformer outages, right? Wrong. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) says up to 80% of all power surges originate in your home. And surge suppressors can help.

Think about the number of electronics in your home when you were a kid. Now, you likely have more valuable electronics and equipment in one room than an average 1980s residence. In fact, electrical consumption increased by more than 200% between 1980-2013.

So, there’s a great deal to power up at home today.

Let’s learn more about surge suppressors and how they’re an effective way to protect your electronics and appliances from power spikes.

Surge Suppressors Prevent Expensive Damages

It’s ironic that the biggest causes of in- home power surges are appliances (ones most likely to be damaged by a power surge). Refrigerators, freezers, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) systems are the main culprits. But you can cause a whole-house blackout with a hairdryer working in the bathroom or a power tool project in the garage.

Surge suppressors are well worth the investment. Did you know an average home has over $15,000 worth of appliances and equipment that need protection from power surges?

Benefits of SPDs

Most in-home power surges are caused by large electrical appliances that switch on and off. SPDs (surge protection devices) or “surge suppressors” have multiple advantages:

Whole-House Surge Suppressors: What to Consider

There are several key considerations for purchasing a whole-house surge suppressor. What do you want to protect? Everything, of course.

By themselves, whole-house suppressors can’t completely stop power surges. You should also have plug-in surge suppressors. Plug-in units can be small and inexpensive or can be “the size of a pizza box that guard all the components in a home theater,” says This Old House .

Look for whole-house surge suppressors rated to stop a minimum 40,000-amp surge. You’ll want an alarm that lets you know when a power surge has occurred. You’ll also want thermal fuses. Your local electrician will hard-wire your whole-house surge suppressor to the service panel. (Without complications, the installation can take about 2 hours.)

Before you buy: You must ensure the suppressor will work with your system. If it doesn’t, you may need to purchase additional equipment. Ask your electrician if you are unsure. Surge suppressors for lake cottages don’t need the same power as a 2,500-square-foot home. And check out all warranty options.

The Best Whole-House Surge Suppressors

If you research whole-house surge suppressors for yourself, you’ll see mixed reviews for several top products.

It’s best to talk with your licensed electrician about which surge suppressor suits your home and its electronics best. The experts at 24/7 Local Electrician will assess your property and appliances. Then they’ll determine which makes the most sense for your usage and protection.

In this case, a customized evaluation is necessary. Don’t be lured by “quick fixes” or a “great deal” out there. When it comes to your home and safety, choose to listen to an experienced electrical contractor.

3 Steps to Increase Safety and Property Value

After losing a Sub-Zero® refrigerator ($5,000+), two KitchenAid® wall ovens ($3,000+), and several computer and entertainment electronics, a Phoenix-area homeowner was more than happy to invest in a whole-house surge protection system. (The installation cost was much less than replacing the damaged appliances and electronics.)

24/7 Local Electrician of Phoenix can work with you to protect your property while increasing its value. Let’s explore the affordability of surge suppressors for your home or business.

Follow these steps:

Best exterior lights for entertaining

Sat, 15 Aug 2020 14:49:00 GMT

Late summer nights here in Phoenix typically deliver beautiful, warm weather. It’s no surprise that many local residents enjoy entertaining in their backyards. And exterior lights are a part of that. It’s likely that you already realize the beauty and power of outdoor lighting . Even the simplest of installations can create a very festive atmosphere.

Follow these tips for selecting exterior lights to turn your outdoor space into an oasis of fun. Whether you are hosting a birthday party or relaxing under the stars, a warm glow can amp up your experience.

String Lighting

These long strands feature evenly spaced bulbs along a single cord, and they are incredibly popular for outdoor installation . Even if you don’t have a dedicated patio cover in your backyard, you can create the illusion of one with string lights.

It will benefit you to have these professionally installed . You’ll want quality materials, as well as a custom, permanent design you can be proud of. Too often, people hang their own lights and are disappointed with the outcome. It’s not as simple “as seen on TV.” Hire experience, and get exactly what you envision.

These string lights further define various spaces in your yard, letting guests know which areas are for dining, lounging, socializing, and other activities. You’ll want an expert handling it all, especially when it comes to higher installations and areas that lack electrical outlets .

Pathway Lighting

While some of your guests may be familiar with the layout of your backyard, you may not always be able to claim this for everyone who visits your home. With pathway lights, your guests will be able to see their way around your yard, helping to prevent anyone from tripping and falling or stumbling into your garden .

You’ll want these professionally installed to ensure that the lights aren’t too bright. You don’t want them to overwhelm people’s eyes in the darkness. The goal here is to simply illuminate the path, not brighten up the entire yard. If you have any stairs in your yard, the experts will know to give these areas extra attention, as they are common sites for accidents in the night.

Focused Garden Lighting

In addition to illuminating the areas where you and your guests will be hanging out, it is also a good idea to showcase some of the most attractive aspects of your garden. For example, if you have a large tree on your property, a vertical spotlight can help to show it off. Flowers with bright colors, unique plants, and decorative items are some other prime locations for localized exterior lights.

When lighting up your garden, your lighting professional will focus on just a few key pieces that truly stand out. Because you’ll want to highlight your yard’s best features, not light up the entire space. Again, it’s a good idea to keep exterior lights relatively dim so they don’t distract from the overall ambiance of your outdoor area under the stars.

Take the Overall Effect into Account

When it comes to placing exterior lights, it pays to have at least an expert plan in place before you get started. This way, you can develop a cohesive lighting design for the entire space, not just individual pieces. With an efficient plan in mind, you’ll achieve a space that sets the perfect mood for entertaining.

At 24/7 Local Electrician , we’ll verify your fixtures are designed for optimal outdoor use. This will ensure that your exterior lights can withstand a variety of weather conditions and minimize the risk of electrocution.

Upgrade Your Phoenix Backyard with Exterior Lights

When you are ready to transform your yard with exterior lights, the 24/7 Local Electrician team is here to help. We’ll work with you to develop the overall design for your space and install everything for you – safely and efficiently. Call today to get started .

Different Workbench Lights for Your Home Projects

Sat, 15 Aug 2020 14:48:00 GMT

She sheds and man caves often include hobby areas and workstations. If you spend any time at all on project detail work, poor vision can manifest itself in headaches, upper-body muscle aches, and difficulty concentrating. Why suffer? Good table and workbench lights are convenient and safer.

Illuminating Options: Workbench Lights

Your project style and workmanship are unique. Workbench lights should be customized to the way you work. It’s important to study the lighting options that make the most sense for you.

Good Lighting for Workspaces

Selecting the best lighting for your space depends on what you do and what you need. You and your lighting professional will need to carefully study the designated area to customize your workbench lights installation .

For example, fluorescent lights are the traditional choice for garage spaces. But consider what you do because other choices might be better. Task lights should shine directly on your work area and not in your eyes. Lighting shadows should never block your workspace.

Basic guidelines for interior workrooms and garage workbench lights include:

Types of Hobby and Workbench Lights

LED

Recessed

Under-cabinet

Some under-cabinet lights can be wireless-remote-controlled, SmartPhone- or virtual assistant-managed (Alexa). Technology is fun, but flipping a mounted control might be faster. Proper positioning is important, or you risk cabinet damage.

Direct wiring should be professionally installed.

High-bay

Here are the options if you have a large work area, like a garage or storage area. Choices include fluorescent, HPS (high-pressure sodium), and metal halide. Again, LEDs are the big winners for the best choice of high-bay lighting.

Workbench Lighting to Avoid

Day 1: “I’m into DIY, and I liked the idea of a moveable clamp light,” said Sharon. “It’s cheap and easy.”

Day 3: “It isn’t working. The clamp is hard to squeeze, so moving it is a pain. I’ve even knocked it off, or it’s fallen down on its own. So many times it’s more of a problem than a visual aid.”

Carpentry, quilting, mosaics, potting plants: We consider these crafts “art.” We seldom think working with a drill press is art. But if you’re creating something or making something work better, it’s art. Your art. Your work is worth it, so avoid shoddy lighting solutions. “Cheap and easy” isn’t the same as efficient.

Customized Craft, Workbench Lights Worth the Investment

You put your heart into creating something beautiful, functional, or both. Make your workspace inspiring and comfortable with proper lighting. We have ideas too. In fact, your lighting preferences and family safety is our “art” and our life’s work.

Let’s discuss your lighting options. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician today.

How to create energy efficiency in your home

Sat, 15 Aug 2020 14:48:00 GMT

Efforts toward planet preservation begin at home . Your home. When you practice energy efficiency with your household, you improve our quality of life.

Maximizing energy efficiency in your home isn’t that difficult. In fact, it’s a viable investment in future generations and their environment.

“Homeowners can save energy while improving their home’s comfort level,” says Arizona Building Inspections. “Substantial savings are possible…”

Learn more about these today!

Simple Solutions for Energy Efficiency in Your Home

These may seem like no-brainers, but all of us need reminders:

Measure

An interesting experiment for your family is to measure energy efficiency in your home with the Home Energy Yardstick. You’ll need to know:

10 Upgrades for Energy Efficiency in Your Home

We enjoy living in sunny Phoenix, but windows are energy-losers. One way to increase energy efficiency in your home is to apply Low-E window film to your home’s windows . Window film can block as much as 66% of the sun’s heat.

Ten home improvements that will lower energy bills and increase your property value include:

1 – Ceiling fans

They aren’t aesthetically pleasing to some people, but ceiling fans go a long way. They keep your air cool, flowing, and comfortable. Plus, they’re an affordable investment.

2 – Evaluate appliances

Older dishwashers consume about 10 gallons of water per-use. A new dishwasher can cut that in half. Other pre-EnergyStar appliances, like microwaves, stoves, and refrigerators, should be replaced when possible.

3 – Get smart

Smart, programmable thermostats save consumers about 15% on heating/cooling costs. They raise and lower temperatures based on your family’s usage patterns. You can save energy when you’re away. That’s right. Set them to cool or warm your Phoenix home right before you return.

4 – Go LED

LED light bulbs are an essential investment to increase energy efficiency in your home. LEDs last 20 times longer and use much less energy. You should see lower utility bills almost immediately.

5 – Install on-demand/tankless water heater

Lower energy bills mean an ROI (return on investment) and ups the value of your home. Achieve this by installing a new water heater.

6 – Insulation

Arizona attics are frequently neglected because we seldom use them. A lot of cool air can escape from your attic if you don’t have good insulation. If your attic has less than 10″ of fiberglass or 8″ of cellulose insulation, you should add more.

7 – Regulate water

Installing low-flow water fixtures and/or restrictor valves can reduce water consumption. This saves money .

8 – Replace doors and windows

Aluminum frames don’t do a great job of keeping hot air out in summer. O r keeping it in during winter. This is an expensive investment. But your long-term and resale ROI will be real.

9 – Seal cracks and leaks

Do a visual inspection of doors and windows. Small cracks allow cool air to escape. Fill them with foam sealant and mark your calendar to re-inspect every 6 months.

10 – Unplug

When not in use, pull the plug on toasters, TVs, computers. Idle, plugged-in appliances can add as much as 10% to your electric bill .

LEED-Certified Electric Pros for Phoenix and Tucson Neighborhoods

24/7 Local Electrician is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified by the United States Green Building Council (USBG). This means our company promotes efforts to reduce energy waste and save money.

We care about sustainable alternatives to increase energy efficiency in your home or commercial property. If you want to save money and save the planet, contact us today .

7 Types of Professional Landscape Lighting

Sat, 15 Aug 2020 14:47:00 GMT

There are so many types of lights and ways to install professional landscape lighting ! And it’s fun. Here are ideas for revamping your home’s exterior while avoiding some common mistakes.

The key, says Lumens’ Landscape Lighting Guide , is to take your time and work with a professional. You want a lighting layout to specifically reflect your unique sense of style. (That’s the fun part.) But you also want to work with the right voltage for your transformer. (Of course, that’s the necessary safety part.)

Why Do You Want Landscape Lighting?

Think about the reasons you want professionally installed landscape lighting:

You make a mistake if you skip this step. For example, homeowners too often discover they need more or less or a different lighting arrangement altogether. When do they realize this? After the fact. It’s important to note that over-lit spaces can become uncomfortable. Further, they can even be unusable over time if they’re not installed correctly.

When your exterior lights are professionally arranged and installed, you get exactly what you want. Indeed, you “get it right” the first time.

Professional landscape lighting installation:

7 Types of Phoenix Landscape Lighting

When you live in a state like Arizona, you want to celebrate the quality of life. Your landscape lighting can be spectacular or sophisticated…or both.

Common Lighting Techniques

Creative Lighting Techniques

Get the Three A’s with Us

Work with 24/7 Local Electrician professionals for an affordable, attractive, Arizona landscape lighting project. Truly, it can be your proudest accomplishment this year. You’ll feel great about your new landscape lighting. And all your guests will notice and enjoy the atmosphere too.

In the end, we want to help you avoid:

These are common landscape lighting mistakes. So, let’s get together to discuss the possibilities. We can design a timeframe and a budget that can turn your home’s landscape into a true showplace. Call us now to schedule.
___
*Affix a spotlight in a tree and point the beam down to replicate “moonshine” on your pool or seating arrangement.

Adding a pool light switch

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 02:16:00 GMT

Do your grandparents tell you of a time in our history when there were no television remote controls ? The remotes were never lost behind cushions because the channel-changer was always on the other side of the room. On the television. Your pool light switch is usually distanced from the pool as well.

Relocating Your Pool Light Switch

Enjoying the amenities of your home is a focus this year. We can swim almost year ’round in Phoenix, so we’re certainly spending more time in our backyard pools and spas. If your kids swim at night, you need the added security of good lighting in and outside the pool. Running to the pump house or the patio to flip on your pool light switch at dusk is a hassle.

The consensus is it’s better to run your pool pump during the day. This enhances sanitation. Chlorine is degraded by sunlight, so the circulation keeps chlorine levels where they need to be.) But if your pool light switch is set to come on when the pool pump is running, you miss the underwater beauty of night swimming.

There are several ways to rewire or relocate your pool light switch for convenience without compromising safety.

Pool Lights are Trending

Pool lights can add ambiance and excitement to nighttime fun and games. Here are some recommendations for lighting* that may include relocating your pool light switch:

8 Swimming Pool Lighting Tips

Here are some all-around ideas to make your swimming pool lighting effective and attractive:

24/7 Local Electrician Your Local, Phoenix Electrician

24/7 Local Electrician professionals see safety, economy, and energy conservation as our customer service mission. With the proper swimming pool and landscape lighting, you can protect your youngsters as well as enhance the ambiance of your home and property.

Let’s estimate your swimming pool and landscaping lighting options to see what’s possible…and affordable. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician today.
___
* 24/7 Local Electrician does not endorse any pool and/or pool accessories or lighting brand(s) and always advises consumers to retain a licensed electrician for any electrical service installations/relocations.

Panel replacement – 5 questions to ask

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 02:11:00 GMT

A power outage on a hot day in August is something no one wants to deal with. If your home is older and you’ve considered electrical panel replacement, consider this: There’s never a “good” time to lose electricity to your home .

When it comes to suspicious wiring and/or older electrical breakers, what you don’t know can hurt you. Schedule electrical panel replacement before it becomes dangerous.

Why You Need Electrical Panel Replacement

Age isn’t the only reason you need an electrical maintenance visit or panel replacement. Do you use power strips in every room in your house? That’s a clue your home is “underpowered.”

Many of today’s larger appliances deserve their own dedicated electrical circuit . Connecting too many appliances to the same circuit is a fire hazard. But it can also damage electrical appliances.

Ten tips you need electrical panel replacement include:

Questions to Ask Your Phoenix Electrician

When your local Phoenix-area electrician recommends upgrading your electrical wiring or panel replacement, here are 5 questions to ask:

24/7 Local Electrician Wants You to Save Energy…Save Money

If your good old house has a not-so-good electrical panel, you could also have some aluminum wiring. Be sure to ask your 24/7 Local Electrician professional to check out the wiring during your panel replacement consultation.

24/7 Local Electrician is the LEED-certified electrician for Phoenix communities. This means your project will be environmentally sustainable and will reduce your electricity usage if possible. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician for an honest, upfront quote on panel replacement or repair. When you save energy, you save money. We can help.

Adding Garage Lights

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 02:10:00 GMT

You’ve installed attractive lighting throughout your home . Your property has lighting for safety and landscape enhancement. But what about your garage lights?

It’s not quite inside, not quite outside and never well-lit. The low-wattage light on the door opener rarely provides enough illumination and it shuts off when you’re only halfway to the door.

Garage Lights: Many Options

Garages are probably one of the most versatile rooms in your house. You can use your garage for one thing (parking cars) or several:

Your garage needs proper lighting no matter how its space is used. What’s confusing is there are many types of lights available. First, identify your “ essential areas .” These can include:

Then decide if and where motion-sensor garage lights would provide value. If you have small children, you want to know their whereabouts at all times, so motion sensor lighting at all garage entrances would be effective.

Types of Garage Lights

Lighting is either accent, ambient, or task. “An ideally lit garage should have all three,” says HomeStratosphere . Layered illumination is perfect for a multipurpose space like a garage.

Here are 11 tips for installing garage lights:

24/7 Local Electrician for Safe Lighting Installation

There are many DIY (do-it-yourself) tasks for homeowners to tackle. Electrical installation isn’t one of them. It’s simply not worth the risk of endangering your family and property. You also don’t want to jeopardize your insurance coverage.

Let’s team to make your garage lights more efficient and attractive. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician today.

Electrical panel maintenance? What you need to know

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 02:10:00 GMT

Professionalism defines an attitude toward what we do. It’s something we now expect when we buy products or services. Your property’s electrical system needs professional maintenance and regular inspections. Electrical panel maintenance should be part of all residential and commercial property upkeep.

What is Electrical Panel Maintenance?

If you’re buying a new-to-you home, ask when the last professional electrical panel maintenance was provided. Most electrical service companies recommend professional panel maintenance every 2-3 years. If it’s more than 30 years old, consider panel replacement.

A visual inspection is a homeowner’s first electrical panel maintenance task. When the lid is shut, check for dust and dirt, rust, or signs of moisture. Open the electrical panel door and inspect the inside. Corrosion and even dust build-up can cause problems with your electrical service . Most electrical panel malfunctions are dangerous.

Professional Panel Maintenance: What We Do

There are clues your electrical panel is outdated or problematic. Some you can see; others may be subtle but are red flags. A professional electrical panel maintenance visit will address any electrical issues you may have noticed. We will also explore the electrical panel box form and function.

1. Visual Inspection

If the breaker box has a brand name of “ Federal Pacific Electric ” or “ Zinsco ,” it may be unsafe. Even if it has a reassuring “GTE Sylvania” label inside, it may be one of the recalled Zinscos. Federal Pacifics may have a “Stab-Loc” label inside the panel.

(Older Zinscos and all Federal Pacifics might not trip, causing overheating and fires. Federal Pacifics went out of production in the 1980s, but not before millions of properties were affected.)

If we discover old fuses and aging fixtures during the electrical panel maintenance, we will probably recommend an upgrade.

2. Fire Evidence

With no “fuel” available, fires inside closed panel boxes usually extinguish themselves. There may have been a previous panel fire if there are burn marks or discolorations in or near the panel box.

3. Frequent Circuit ‘Trips’

It is not normal to have to “reset the breaker” because you have a power outage in one area. Most property owners go years without their circuit breakers flipping off. Breaker-tripping tells us there’s some kind of deterioration going on.

4. Plastic-Burning Smell

Plastic electronics have a distinctive odor when they are burning. If you smell plastic burning near the circuit box, schedule an electrical panel maintenance inspection immediately.

Electrical Demand is Property-Specific

Your property may have the same layout or floor plan as others. But how you use your space – how many people, rooms/offices, and electronic devices used – is unique. Working at home may lessen travel time and fuel consumption, but homeowners’ electricity usage increase proportionately. Office spaces and commercial buildings need basic services 24/7.

24/7 Local Electrician of Arizona recommends electrical panel maintenance as part of your annual or bi-annual property inspection. We’ll ensure breakers, connection points, components, and wires are tightened and functioning. We will also assess your usage levels to determine if your property’s wiring is keeping up.

If you have any questions or electrical concerns, contact us immediately. We’re your local electric service professionals for Phoenix-area communities and neighborhoods, including:

It’s not what we do…but how much love we put into it. – 24/7 Local Electrician

The Best Night Lighting for Entertaining

Sat, 13 Jun 2020 04:13:00 GMT

Nothing is more inviting than mood-enhancing entertainment lighting. If you’re considering outdoor night lighting for summer entertaining, be willing to make a commitment. “As with most things related to homeownership, landscape lighting systems require ongoing maintenance and tuneups,” says Green Industry magazine.

Indoor lighting is best served by – you guessed it – natural sunshine. And lights definitely impact your guests’ comfort levels. A room with warm, inviting lighting sets the stage for a relaxing evening. You can design lighting to encourage engaging conversation. But a roomful of harsh LED lights? A definite party darkener.

Inside Night Lighting for Entertainment

We’re drawn to and fascinated by lights. One of the best indoor night lighting ideas is to present a beautiful yard bathed in wondrous lights. Guests will gravitate to your uncovered windows to admire the scenery.

Another mood-enhancing idea is a dimmer installation in living and dining rooms as well as kitchen areas. You can have the lights dim during the meal and mingling.

You won’t have to say, “Party’s over! Goodnight!” Just slowly ease the lights up to full brightness.

Indoor lighting ideas include:

Summer and Fall Outdoor Get-Togethers

Phoenix-area homeowners have a tradition of gracious outdoor entertaining all year-round. But evening summer and fall parties are especially pleasurable.

To begin your lightscaping project, define exactly what you want to achieve. Do you want to illuminate a walkway or garden path? How will your night lighting integrate with furniture and seating arrangements? Do you need lighting for a one-time, large event or permanent fixtures for long-term entertaining, or both?

Once you’ve determined how your outdoor night lighting will best serve, make a “blueprint” of your yard. It doesn’t have to be perfectly scaled. Indicate ground, tree, exterior home, and fixture lighting areas .

Points to consider:

Residential Lighting for Beauty and Safety

24/7 Local Electrician offers over 20 years’ experience in superior electrical service . 24/7 Local Electrician’s team of professionals live and work in:

We are passionate about home safety and can share several ideas for home lighting that will not only enhance the quality of your life; it will increase your property value. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician today to design a customized night lighting package for your home.

What Kind of Security Cameras Are Best for My Home?

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 14:20:00 GMT

There are plenty of reasons your home needs security cameras.

Nanny and nursery security cameras are fixtures in households with babies and babysitters. Your kids may be old enough to stay home alone, but your 13-year-old thinks he’s a master chef. With kitchen cams, you can monitor kids’ safety while allowing them creative freedom.

Outside, yard monitoring and safety is another issue for which home security cameras are the solution. Most home robberies are opportunity-based. Locked doors and windows are the best precautions. But motion-light sensors are terrific deterrents.

Indoor Security Cameras

When your mom said she had “eyes in the back of her head,” you thought she was kidding. Today, Mom has eyes in her ceiling fans and corners of almost every room in the house. Indoor security cameras have quickly resolved “He did it!” “No, she did it!” disputes.

Timed lighting devices and cameras are powerful indoor security tools for homeowners . In May 2020, NY Times Wirecutter released its best indoor security cameras list:

Security Cameras for Your Pets

Indoor pet cams are increasingly popular. You can alleviate separation anxiety (your pet’s and your’s) while away from home. Top-rated pet cams include:

Outdoor Security Cameras

Some say a mean dog is the best outdoor security, but that may no longer be the case: Ring outdoor floodlight camera and siren is a best-seller because it has an evolutionary protection system:

In addition to the Ring outdoor floodlight system , Review.org ’s May 2020 picks for outdoor security included:

24/7 Local Electrician Security Cameras Installations Protect Loved Ones and Increase Property Values

24/7 Local Electrician of Arizona is an electrical contracting company serving Maricopa County and nearby communities. We often recommend Ring security systems for all-around, whole-house indoor, and outdoor security installation. Ask us about an estimate for security lights, cameras, and motion sensors . It’s a smart investment in your home and family.

The difference between security lights and motion sensors

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 19:27:00 GMT

Security lights and motion sensors often go hand-in-hand, but you’ll find both styles in other configurations as well. It is important to understand the differences so you know which is best for your needs. Here’s a look at some of the most common features for motion sensors and security lights.

Types of Security Lights

The goal of security lights is to brighten your property at night and deter potential thieves. Within this category, you’ll have several different options.

Security Lights without Motion Sensors

Security lights without motion-detection capabilities will typically remain on constantly. This way, your property will be illuminated throughout the night, keeping potential thieves away.

Depending on the variety you choose, you may be able to set the lights on a timer so that they are only on at night. With this configuration, your lights will still come on even if you don’t activate them manually. This is great for protecting your home while you are out of town, as it will make it seem like someone is still home .

Some variations also detect light, only coming on from dusk until dawn. These lights will remain off during the day and come on when the amount of ambient light drops below a specific level. When the sun comes back up in the morning, the lights will turn off. With this type of security light , you won’t need to adjust the timer as sunrise and sunset times shift throughout the seasons.

Security Lights with Motion Sensors

Motion sensor lights only come on when something moves and triggers the device. The idea behind this is that the sudden bright light will scare off burglars before they have a chance to break into your home or business. If there is no movement detected, these lights will stay off, keeping your property dark and helping to conserve electricity .

Security Lights with Video Cameras

Many modern security lights, like those from Ring, also include video cameras. These cameras can be motion-sensitive, or they may operate constantly. Be sure to check which type you are buying so you know what to expect in terms of capabilities. Some cameras only maintain video footage for a limited time, while others store all historical data. If you need to provide video footage to police, it is important to know how long you have before the footage is deleted.

Other Uses for Motion Sensors

While motion sensors are common for security lights, that is not their only use. You’ll also find motion sensors for other types of outdoor lighting, as well as indoor lighting. In either case, the purpose of adding motion sensors is to minimize wasted electricity. If the sensor doesn’t detect any motion for a specified period of time, it will turn the lights off automatically. This way, you won’t accidentally leave the lights on in or outside your home when you leave to go to work or on vacation.

Get Expert Help Installing Motion Sensors

If you are looking to protect your Phoenix home or business with security lighting and motion sensors, 24/7 Local Electrician is here to help. We’ll get your property set up so that it will be as safe as possible. Our experienced team members will install any necessary wiring for the lights as well, and they’ll also test everything to ensure it is working properly.

We invite you to reach out to us at any time if you have questions about lighting and other electrical concerns. We’re always happy to provide our clients with more information. Get in touch with us today to schedule a service appointment to discuss your needs.

Why usb receptacles are all the rage

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 19:15:00 GMT

We’ve all been there: you get home from work or an evening out with your friends, and your smartphone is barely hanging on to the last of its battery life. After digging through your purse, work bag, junk drawer, and pretty much everywhere else you can think of, you just can’t seem to find the USB adapter for your charging cable.

This can be incredibly frustrating, but fortunately, there is a better option: USB receptacles. Here’s what you need to know about these and other electrical outlet types to decide which is best for your Phoenix home.

Outlets with USB Receptacles

Between your smartphone, tablet, digital camera, children’s toys, and other electronic devices, you’ve probably got a lot of things that charge using USB cables. In addition to needing to keep track of all adapters, you’ll also need to have plenty of available outlets to accommodate them. Modern outlets with USB receptacles are the perfect solution to this common problem.

These types of outlets include space for you to plug the USB cable directly into the outlet with no need for an adapter. This not only eliminates the need for countless adapters. It also keeps your outlets free for lamps and other electronics. You’ll need a professional to install outlets with USB receptacles, so keep this in mind when making your decision.

GFCI Outlets

Ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets are another common household outlet style. These types of outlets are most commonly used in areas that get a lot of moisture, like kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas. If the outlet detects any anomalies in the power supply, it will automatically disconnect the power supply.

This serves to minimize the risk of electrocution, electrical fires, and other emergencies. As with outlets with USB receptacles, you’ll typically need an electrician to install GFCI outlets for you.

Tamper-Resistant Outlets

For those with children, tamper-resistant (TR) outlets are a great option for enhanced safety. With this type of outlet, the holes in the outlet remain covered when not in use. When you need to use the outlet, applying pressure to both covers at the same time with the prongs of the plug will open them.

When you remove the plug, the covers slide back into place. This prevents small children from sticking objects into the outlets, potentially putting themselves at risk of electrocution. It’s a wise idea to not take this project on yourself due to the dangers inherent in electrical work.

Trust Us for Professional Outlet Installation in Phoenix

Whether you need TR outlets, GFCI outlets, outlets with USB receptacles, or some combination of the three, 24/7 Local Electrician is here to help. We’ll install any outlets you need safely and efficiently. This way, you don’t need to worry about the possibility of electrocuting yourself or damaging your home. We’ll always inspect and test everything after the job is complete to ensure the outlets and their safety features are all working as they should.

When you are ready to install new outlets or USB receptacles in your Phoenix home, get in touch with us right away. We will gladly answer all of your questions and let you know which outlet types are best for your needs. Reach out today to get started .

Ease Eye Strain With New Home Lighting

Sun, 24 May 2020 22:23:00 GMT

Working from home is growing in popularity, whether you are self-employed or your employer permits a more flexible work schedule. However, to make the most of your time and effort, you need to have a comfortable work space. In addition to the proper furnishings and electronics to help you get your job done, you’ll also need adequate lighting. Poor lighting can lead to eye strain, headaches and other physical complications, not just in your home office, but in other rooms as well. Here’s what you need to know to upgrade your home’s lighting to reduce eye strain.

Minimize Eye Strain in the Home Office

Your home office is one of the most important areas to have proper lighting to prevent eye strain. Staring at a computer screen all day can be really hard on your eyes, especially if you don’t have enough ambient light. In addition to specialized task lighting for your desk, you’ll also want to include broader light for the rest of the room. Recessed lights overhead, as well as standing lamps, are great for this purpose.

Study Area

Children and teenagers may not have work to do per se, but they’ll likely have homework for school. Just like in your home office, your children will need task and ambient lighting for their study areas to reduce eye strain. Have fun with the design of the lights you choose to keep the space kid-friendly. If they are old enough, let them choose their own lighting to make the space feel like their own.

Hobby Area

If you’re spending more time at home these days, there is only so much TV you can watch. Starting or reconnecting with a hobby can be a great way to pass the time. Depending on the hobby you choose, your lighting needs will vary. Some tasks, like painting or woodworking will require plenty of bright light so you can see what you are doing without eye strain. For dancing, yoga, and other active hobbies, you’ll still need light , but it won’t need to be as bright and focused.

Kitchen

If you have ever tried to chop an onion in dim light, you know how important it is to have enough light in your kitchen. Not only will this help to prevent eye strain, but it will also help prevent you from accidentally cutting yourself. Overhead lighting is common in kitchens, though you may also want to consider under-cabinet lighting to shed even more light on your food prep space. This will also minimize any shadows your body might cast.

Bathrooms and Eye Strain

An often-overlooked area in terms of lighting design is the bathroom. While many people take care of designing the layout and decor of the bathroom, lighting often seems like an afterthought. However, shaving and putting on makeup are two tasks that require plenty of light. A common option is to install lights above your mirror, but this isn’t the only choice available to you. You can also add lights along the sides of the mirror to fill in the light from the sides. This will make it easier to see your face with minimal shadows from overhead.

Learn More About Improving Your Lighting

Overhauling the lighting in your Phoenix home can seem like a daunting task. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be when you work with 24/7 Local Electrician . We’ll provide insight and expert advice to help you improve your lighting design to improve the overall look of the space and also prevent eye strain. Reach out to our team today to learn more about our services and schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.

Pros and Cons of Dimmer Switches

Sun, 24 May 2020 22:15:00 GMT

Dimmer switches are popular choices for homeowners looking to enhance the mood lighting in their homes. Adding dimmable lights can help you create an enjoyable atmosphere while also lowering your energy usage and costs. Despite all the benefits, dimmers do have some drawbacks as well. Here’s what you need to know to decide if dimmer switches are right for your Phoenix home.

Benefits of Dimmer Switches

The biggest benefit of using dimmers is that it gives you increased control over your lighting design. You can set the lights to a bright setting while you are working or enjoying a hobby. Then, if you are hosting guests in the evening, you can dim them down to create a more festive atmosphere. You may also be able to utilize colored light bulbs , enabling you to customize the lighting even further.

Because you can achieve such a wide range of brightness with your dimmable lighting, you can install multiple lights throughout the room. This way, you’ll always be able to have bright light when you need it and dim the lights when you don’t. By keeping the light low, you’ll also be using less electricity to power the lights, making it easy to save on your energy bills. Motion sensor options are also available, turning off the lights when no one is in the room.

With modern technology, you can even find dimmer switches with smart capabilities. Depending on the specific features of the device, you may be able to operate it from your smartphone or voice- activated assistant . Some models even include programming capabilities, allowing you to set your lights to automatically cycle through various lighting concepts throughout the day.

Drawbacks of Dimmer Switches

Of course, there are a few pitfalls to be aware of when considering dimmable lighting. For starters, not all dimmer switches are compatible with LED lighting. If you prefer this long-lasting, environmentally friendly light bulb style, you’ll need to take care in choosing a dimmer switch that can accommodate it. Make sure that you understand the compatibility requirements of any dimmer switch on your shortlist.

You’ll also need to hire a qualified electrician to install a dimmer switch for you. It is somewhat of a complex task, so it is best to leave it to the professionals to minimize your risk of electrocution or electrical fire. Finally, some dimmer switches produce a buzzing noise, which can be annoying over time. Check customer reviews before buying anything to avoid these and other common issues.

Upgrade Your Phoenix Home with Dimmers

If you are interested in adding dimmer switches to some of the lights in your Phoenix home, reach out to 24/7 Local Electrician . We’ll be happy to help you evaluate the myriad options available to you to help you narrow down your choices. We’ll take your needs and preferences into account to find the perfect dimmer switch for your home.

Our team is always here to answer any questions you may have about dimmable lights or any other electrical concerns. Feel free to reach out to us at any time for assistance. Call today to schedule a consultation appointment to discuss your needs in greater detail.

Can Nest thermostats save money?

Sun, 24 May 2020 22:09:00 GMT

Your air conditioner is the single largest contributor to your electric bill. If you’re working from home, keeping the entire house cool during the day can get expensive. Nest thermostats save U.S. consumers about 15% on their cooling bills and between 10-12% on heating costs.

Nest Thermostats Take You Beyond ‘Smart’ to ‘Intuitive’

Most people want programmable thermostats. We know it will reduce energy consumption and lower heating and cooling expenses. But programming them is tricky, and many people simply give up.

Nest thermostats raised the bar forever. Your home may have the same architectural floor plan as your neighbor’s, but your energy use won’t be the same. The type of home furnishings, number of household members and pets, and how you live are unique. Those dynamics greatly influence heating and cooling usage.

Nest thermostats don’t need to be programmed. They analyze your heating and cooling patterns. They learn about you ; from you.

12 Benefits of Nest Thermostats

When reviewing the best smart thermostats for 2020, TechHive said, “You could just buy a Nest Learning Thermostat and call it a day.” The advantages are numerous:

24/7 Local Electrician: Helping You Find Better Ways to Manage Time and Money

You may find yourself working at home more this year. Economic conditions continue to fluctuate unpredictably. Homeowners are finding time and money management are more important than ever, but we also want to manage energy consumption.

Energy conservation is simply the right thing to do for our planet. (It’s the right thing to do for our budgets, too.) If you find you’re using more electricity this year, here are two ways to lower energy consumption:

24/7 Local Electrician wants to be your electrical contractor. Please contact us if you have questions about cost-saving energy management. Remember, we’re available 24/7. Call us immediately for emergency service .

Are Ring Doorbells Really Worth It?

Sun, 24 May 2020 18:08:00 GMT

This year, you’ve likely personalized several standard security options (cellphone password plus thumbprint authentication, for example). Your financial service providers have also personalized data protection. And now, ring doorbells are being replaced by more personal technology: video identification.

Disadvantages of Traditional Doorbells

In Arizona, one property crime occurs about every 3 minutes. Burglary ranks as the number-one crim e committed here. Video doorbells are “smart home” technology, but they also serve as security cameras.

Traditional ring doorbells:

Advantages of Video Doorbells

Video doorbells can be the “eyes” and “ears” of home security . Their capabilities and technology alone are worth the investment. Video doorbells increase your property value. They need professional installation, but once in place, the mechanics are easy to implement.

You can always view who is at your door using live video. You can talk using the audio function. The two-way audio function also works from your cellphone, so if you’re not home, the visitor or delivery person won’t know.

Video doorbells put a safe distance between you and your unknown visitor. This is something that will prove beneficial beyond 2020.

Hardwire vs. Battery Video Doorbells

Some video doorbell installation kits come with a rechargeable battery. It will need to be recharged regularly, depending on its battery life. In bad weather, battery-powered video doorbells have difficulty holding a charge and can fail completely.

If your video doorbell is hardwired, there is no battery to worry about. An electronic video doorbell uses between 8-24 volts AC (alternating current).

The Best of 2020

“If you’re looking for the best video doorbell *, chances are it’s among those we’ve tested,” said CNET. This year you might consider replacing your ring doorbell with a . . . Ring doorbell .

Saving space and competitive pricing make the Ring Video Doorbell Pro a good fit for most doorframes and budgets. Doorbells average 7.6 centimeters and you wouldn’t think size matters that much.

But just slightly larger units can lead to rewiring, re-routing wiring, or worse – rerouting through bricks or siding. A few centimeters can make a big difference. Ring Doorbell Pro is a compact 4.7cm and transmits in terrific 1080p HD resolution.

The Ring Doorbell alerts you even when visitors don’t ring the doorbell and includes:

Knock, Knock! Who’s There?

24/7 Local Electrician is open for business.

Now’s a good time to replace your ring doorbell with the kind of protective technology you need. 24/7 Local Electrician continues to install security lights and motion detection lighting. We believe video doorbells address additional security solutions for Phoenix homes. They can serve you well for many years.

24/7 Local Electrician is available for all your home automation needs, including smart doorbells. We’re your Phoenix-area electricians. Call or email us to learn more .

Are you ready to work from home?

Wed, 06 May 2020 20:00:00 GMT

Working at home is convenient and cost-effective. You may be prepared to work from home, but is your home ready for full-time employment?

With more families working from home, they often find they need more computers to support their job and their kid’s schoolwork. This adds up to a lot of data requirements. Especially when you include streaming tv and game consoles. Without the right infrastructure in your home, you could feel like you’re back on dialup.

What Do You Need to Work from Home?

People are working from home so much more today and many families are now homeschooling their kids.

Perhaps videoconferencing what was once face-to-face appointments and meetings will become the norm. And now we’re using technology to stay in touch with loved ones and connect with business associates.

If you weren’t familiar with “streaming,” this might be a good opportunity to learn. You’re going to need some electrical upgrades to run an efficient home office or homeschool.

You’ll need to consider:

Create an Efficient Work Environment

Vila recommends “ structured wiring.” Structured wiring is a data-delivery system. It can accommodate phone/fax, broadband internet, and networking (video/television) technologies. The system requires three segments:

Get Ready, Set, and 24/7 Local Electrician ‘Go to Work’

Once you know what you need and where it should go, contact your LEED-certified local electrician to schedule your “go-live” day. “The data capacity of copper wire is designated by category and how the wires are twisted,” explains Vila. “The main difference between the wiring designations is the transmission frequency (bandwidth/megahertz).”

This installation shouldn’t involve knocking down walls. Wiring and cables can be strung behind and in-between walls. What you don’t want is a tangle of extension cords and cabling.

DIY (do-it-yourself) will be unattractive and won’t work as well. It’s dangerous to your family and property, too. Your insurance company may reject any damage claims resulting from your attempt to rewire a room.

Comfort, Convenience, Safety at Home

Working at home is a convenience for many. You can wear your sweats to work while enjoying a comfortable, safe workspace. The electrical upgrades you make during this time will increase your home’s value and lower energy bills at the same time.

The 24/7 Local Electrician pros want to protect your safety and help you maintain good health while working at home. Your home circuitry can manage the additional workload with proper installation.

Today, many are considering career changes. If you’d like to learn more about working as a member of our team , we’d like to hear from you. Contact us if you have any questions.

Is the electricity bill going up now that you work from home?

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 04:20:00 GMT

Companies across a wide range of industries are embracing the growing trend of letting employees work from home . With fewer employees at physical offices, companies can save on a variety of expenses, like facilities, meals, electricity bills and more. This can free up room in the company budget for other initiatives and move the company forward.

Working remotely can be beneficial for employees as well. They’ll no longer have to deal with the time and stress of commuting each morning and evening. Workers also have more freedom in how they structure their days, including meals and breaks. However, being at home all the time can also have its negatives, like increased electricity bill s. Because you are at home all day instead of just in the evenings, your energy usage is likely to be much higher.

Here’s what you need to know to minimize your usage and keep your electricity bills under control when working from home.

Save on Your Electricity Bill with a Smart Thermostat

If you’re like most people, a significant chunk of your energy bill goes towards heating or cooling. Temperature control , while essential for keeping your home and workspace comfortable, is one of the biggest energy expenses.

To help keep your usage in check, consider switching to a smart thermostat. This will allow you to program your thermostat to accommodate your changing needs throughout the day. It can also make adjustments based on whether or not you are home, the time of day, the weather and more. Although you’ll still be using your system more frequently because you are home more often, the smart thermostat can help you make the most of it and reduce its impact on your electricity bill as much as possible.

LED Lighting

Throughout your day, do your best to open your shades or blinds to allow in natural light . Not only is this safer for your eyes and better for your mood, but it will also reduce your reliance on artificial lighting. The less frequently you need to use your lights, the more you can save on your electricity bills.

Of course, you are going to need lights at some times. Rather than using traditional incandescent light bulbs, make the shift to energy-efficient LED bulbs. In addition to using less energy, thus reducing your electricity costs, LEDs last significantly longer than other bulb styles, so you’ll save money on replacement costs as well. You can even find varieties that let you adjust the color and color temperature to suit your preferences.

Motion Sensors

As you go about your day, it can be easy to turn on lights throughout the house. What is not so easy, however, is remembering to turn them all off. Leaving your lights on when you are not in the room can add to your electricity bills over time. With motion sensors , the lights in a room will automatically turn off when the sensor detects that no one is in the room. This way, the system will switch off your lights when you forget to do it, adding up to serious savings.

Get Set Up to Work from Home

If you need to make some changes around your Phoenix house now that you work from home, 24/7 Local Electrician is here to help. Whether you need new wiring installed to accommodate a smart thermostat or want to make the switch to energy-efficient lighting, our team can handle the job. We’ll help you identify trouble areas to reduce your home’s energy usage and minimize your electricity bills.

Reach out to us today to learn more about our electrical services in Phoenix. Call now to get started .

Can bathroom fans keep you from getting sick?

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 20:12:00 GMT

Bathroom fans aren’t just for odors. Their primary purpose is to decrease moisture in bathrooms. New sensors and timers can keep your rooms’ humidity at a level that controls bacteria, mildew, mold, and viruses.

How Traditional Bathroom Fans Work

Bathroom exhaust systems have a ceiling fan connected to ductwork that leads to outside ventilation. Older bathroom fans may be noisy – in fact, if they’re too quiet they probably aren’t working.

Most bathroom fans are controlled by a wall switch. Usually, you turn it on as you exit the bathroom and forget to turn it off until much later. The exhaust fan should be on for about 20 minutes following toilet or shower use. If you leave it on too long, ball bearings inside can lock up which could cause the motor to overheat. That’s a fire hazard you want to avoid.

Bathroom Fans Can Reduce Bacterial Growth

There are ways to control bacterial levels in your bathroom. In addition to frequent cleanings, close the toilet lid when you flush. If your toilet is in the same room as your sink, store your toothbrushes in a cabinet. Exhaust fans can’t completely eliminate moisture-related bacteria.

Your bathroom fan may not be working if you have:

Humidity sensors not only “clean-up” your air; they also save money by lowering energy use. People with frequent allergies or illnesses are likely candidates for home humidity sensors.

Humidity Sensors: How They Work

The sensor unit is a “ hygrometer .” It measures and reports air temperature and moisture levels. Those measurement ratios are called “relative humidity” and impact your comfort level.

Any electrical appliance installation should be managed by your local electrical contractor . It’s not worth the risk of fire or damage and can void your insurance policy. Plus, installing a basic bathroom fan is a time-consuming and difficult job. (Don’t try this at home.)

Installing a humidity sensor is assuredly not a DIY (do-it-yourself) job. They must be calibrated on a 9-point curve system. A professional must adjust the voltage deviation.

Humidity sensors should have an accurate rise time and fall time for voltage output. This is known as “response time.” A DIY bathroom fan installation could be essentially worthless if the sensor is out of sync and you don’t know it.

3 Seasons for Allergies; 13 Weeks for Flu

We only have 4 seasons and three of them are high in allergens. This year, the flu season (normally 13 weeks) is taking longer to dissipate. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is important to keeping allergens at bay and controlling the transmission of viruses.

“It’s difficult to predict how (the flu virus) will behave,” says LiveScience , “But even if you can’t predict what will happen, you can prepare for it.” There are

IAQ Important to Health and Comfort

Good indoor air quality and clean water top the list of property owner requirements. Homeowners and commercial businesses want comfortable, clean air. Replacing your bathroom fam with a humidity-sensing appliance can be your ticket to better health, too.

Now is a good time to schedule that home improvement project you’ve been putting off! If you have questions about any type of electrical installation, please contact the professionals at 24/7 Local Electrician .

Setting up your home office to work from home

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 19:53:00 GMT

As remote working technology continues to advance, it is becoming much more common for employers to allow their teams to work from home. If you are making the switch to a home office, it may not be as easy as you think to get started . There is more to setting up your home office than simply plugging in your laptop and getting to work. Read on for some possible issues you may encounter and what to do about them.

Inadequate Internet Connection

Your home internet connection may be more than sufficient for your typical at-home activities. Activities like browsing the web, streaming music and scrolling social media. However, depending on the nature of your work, it may not be strong enough for video conferencing. You may also struggle to transmit large data files and accomplish other remote work tasks. Check with your internet service provider to learn more about the various packages it offers to determine which is best for your home office. Keep in mind that you may need to upgrade your modem, router, or other equipment to accommodate a faster connection. Often the WiFi signal can vary in different parts of your home too. If this is the case, we can help install a wired connection between your router and your office.

Lack of Power Outlets in Your Home Office

When setting up your home office, you may find that you quickly run out of power outlets for all your devices. With your computer, printer, desk lamp, mobile device chargers, and other essentials, you may not have enough outlets within easy reach of your desk. To combat this problem, you’ll likely use a power strip or run extension cords to reach your workspace.

Although simple solutions, neither of these are the best options. Power strips can cause problems when they have too many devices plugged into them. In addition to diminished power to each device, there is also the possibility of electrical shorts or other issues due to overloading the system. Modern power strips with surge protectors can minimize the risk, but not eliminate it entirely.

Extension cords can create issues too, especially if you have pets or young children. Running an extension cord across your floor creates a tripping hazard. Taping over them, on the other hand, isn’t great for aesthetic purposes. Instead, contact an electrician to update your wiring and add extra power outlets where you need them most. This way, the load will be spread evenly through your electrical system. This minimizes your risk of electrical fires and other possible dangers.

Lack of WiFi Security

Although working from a home office can be convenient, it likely isn’t as secure as an office facility. Hackers and thieves may attempt to hijack your WiFi, giving them access to potentially sensitive company data. Inadequate online security is one of the major factors holding a lot of businesses back from allowing their employees to work from home. Therefore, you’ll need to ensure your home office is as secure as possible.

Rather than operating on WiFi, it is far better for security purposes to use a direct, wired connection to your internet service . This will make it much more difficult for thieves to gain access, as they’ll need to have a physical connection. Installing CAT5e cables in your home will allow you to access the fastest possible internet connection speeds without having to use WiFi.

Update Your Home Office Today

If you need assistance getting your home office set up so that you can work from home on a regular basis, we’re here for you. 24/7 Local Electrician can install and upgrade your wiring so that you are ready to go. Our team is here to help you work from home as efficiently and safely as possible. Please, don’t be shy about getting in touch with us when you are ready to make the switch. Call now to schedule an appointment .

Replacing Aluminum Wiring in Your Home

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 04:20:00 GMT

A copper shortage in the ‘60s caused many properties to be electrically wired with aluminum. Builders and electricians don’t use aluminum wiring today. Replacing aluminum wiring should be a priority for all property owners.

When Aaron and Jessica bought their circa-1970 home, they discovered it had aluminum electrical wiring. The owners said, “Not a problem; we’ve never had an issue.”

They were honest. And that’s the main problem with aluminum wiring. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says, “Unfortunately, failing aluminum-wired connections seldom provide easily detected warning signs. Aluminum-wired connections and splices have been reported to fail and overheat without any prior indications or problems.”

Six months later, they smelled a burning-electrical odor in their daughter’s bedroom. Her nightlight was melting! The electrician suggested fixing it by “pigtailing” it with copper wire.

Pigtailing vs. Replacing Aluminum Wiring

Today, pigtailing is seldom used as a solution to replacing aluminum wiring. It involves splicing a length of copper wire to the aluminum wire. The copper wire then connects to the electrical outlet or device.

Here’s what you should know about pigtailing aluminum wiring:

It saves money. But most people aren’t willing to take the risk of losing their loved ones or property to fire.

Can Replacing Aluminum Wiring Wait?

Replacing aluminum wiring can cost more than $10,000 to replace. The price depends on square footage and how easy it is to access your wiring.

You need to work with your local electrician to find a cost-effective way to rewire. Replacing aluminum wiring will lower your energy bills and possibly your insurance premiums. That should be a financial factor, too.

If you have these issues, you can’t put it off:

Your Rewiring Project

Today’s homes use nonmetallic (NM) cable. Cables usually have a combination of “hot,” “neutral,” and “ground” wires inside a protective material.

Sometimes aluminum rewiring is replaced by tearing out walls. After the rewiring is complete, you must install new drywall. This is probably the most costly and time-consuming process.

If you have a historical home, you want to preserve its architectural integrity. Even if you don’t, you want to save time and money. When possible, electricians can feed wires through walls by making a small cut in the plaster/drywall.

Be sure to learn the cost of drywall repair and include it with your aluminum rewiring budget.

Older homes can have 60-100 amps of service. Today’s minimum electrical service is 200 amps. “In the process of rewiring,” says Angie’s List , “An electrician will almost always upgrade your service capacity.”

How Long Your Rewiring Project Should Take

A good electrician knows safely rewiring a home is time-consuming, painstaking work. You can usually live at home while the electricians are working.

The length of time can depend on if you have an attic, if the house is on a concrete slab, architecture intricacy, etc. You can likely allow 3-10 days for an uncomplicated rewiring project.

Local’s Here for You

24/7 Local Electrician can save you money. Most importantly, we can save your loved ones from the risks of burns and fires. Contact us today .

Use photocells to control your lighting

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 22:23:00 GMT

Landscapers and outdoor décor professionals may know more about using photocells to control lighting than most. Today, interior decorators and homeowners are using photocell lighting for indoor ambiance and security.

The Ins-and-Outs of Photocells

Photocell technology is based on semiconductors controlling electrical current. Normally, semiconductors won’t “conduct” electricity. But when exposed to the right amount of light, they generate a current. Indoor photo cellular lighting uses motion detectors to manage illumination.

If you’re spending time remembering (and forgetting) to turn the porch lights on and off, this technology is for you. Exterior photocells can control illumination based on the amount of existing daylight.

In addition to outside illumination, with a motion sensor, photocells become part of an interior security lighting system. They are often used for interior/exterior mood lighting. But savvy seniors are installing them indoors in hallways and bathrooms for safety.

Security Lighting Using Photocells

Using photocells for lighting isn’t exactly new technology. Cities have been using photocell lighting for streets and walkways for many years.

Property crime in Maricopa County is down. However, Glendale, Phoenix, Tempe, and Tolleson still rank among the top ten cities in Arizona for property crime.

Effective exterior lighting remains one of the biggest burglary deterrents. City parks use photocells to turn on at dusk or during darkness. They often program them to turn off a certain time every morning.

15 Exterior Lighting Applications

Ten-percent “ dimming ” photocell lighting for lawns and gardens is recommended by lighting engineer Annie Kuczkowski. In the United States, a zero-to-ten volt dimming system is the most common. It works well with commercial and residential under-deck lighting.

Here are 15 exterior photocell lighting ideas:

Address numbers

22 Interior Beauty and Safety Lighting Ideas

Sometimes it’s called “ destination lighting .” That’s when you use photocell lighting applications to set a tone…a feel…in a certain area of your home. Every room should have a mix of lighting , including overhead, accent and task lights.

But for safety, nothing beats a motion-activated photocell lighting system. You can even have a motion light installed under your bed! Your approach will trip the light and you’ll be able to see while you put your best foot forward.

Here are some interior lighting ideas for photocells and motion detection:

DIY With Local Electrician

There is a DIY website for everything from ant farm construction to how-to build your own 3,000-sq.ft. house. We understand DIY (do-it-yourself) is trending, especially among common-sense Millennials.

Here’s some common-sense advice: Don’t DIY electricity. At least discuss your ideas and plans with a certified electrical contractor beforehand. If your project won’t jeopardize your property or personal safety, we’ll tell you.

If you manage your own electrical project and it results in fire and property loss, your insurance company may not cover the damages. But putting your loved ones’ lives at risk is the best reason not to DIY an electrical project.

24/7 Local Electrician professionals can deliver the light solutions you need at a price you can afford. Reach out to us today to share your lighting application ideas.

What are tape lights and will they brighten a space?

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 19:39:00 GMT

Tape lights, also called strip lights, can make a huge difference in the lighting design in your Phoenix home or commercial space . These compact lights arranged along a single strip can have a wide range of uses, from under-cabinet lighting to lining art frames to illuminating shelving. Here’s what you need to know about tape lights and how to use them.

Benefits of Tape Lights

Thanks to their compact size, strip lights are suitable for a variety of areas where traditional lightbulbs would not fit or be aesthetically pleasing. They provide soft illumination for small areas, though they typically won’t provide much light for the room at large. Tape lights are better-suited for lighting small, specific areas. Their purpose tends to be more aesthetic than functional.

Choosing the Right Tape Lights

When it comes to strip lighting, you’ll have a lot of options available to you at a wide range of price points. Take care to choose a high-quality variety . While some strip lights are highly affordable, they may not be of the best quality. This can result in diminished light, defeating the purpose of adding the tape lights.

Of course, high cost is not necessarily indicative of quality, so be sure to do your research before making a final decision. The experts here at 24/7 Local Electrician will be happy to help you evaluate your options to choose the most appropriate style for your particular use.

Creating Ambience with Strip Lighting

Depending on the occasion, you may not necessarily want bright lighting throughout a room. If you are entertaining guests in the evening, for example, you’ll want to create a festive mood that encourages conversation. Strategically placed tape lights around artwork, under cabinets or along shelving can provide just enough light to set the tone while not overpowering the atmosphere. Personalize the ambiance even further with a selection of optional features.

Customizing Your Tape Lighting

During the installation process, your electrical technician can connect your strip lights to a light switch for easy, convenient use. You also have the option of adding a dimmer switch, letting you adjust the lighting design as needed. With some modern strip lighting, you may even have the option to choose various colors for the lights. This option is most common among LED varieties. Adding these features can give you greater control over your lighting, making it more versatile and adaptive.

Quick, Easy Tape Light Installation

If you are interested in adding tape lighting to your home or business, the 24/7 Local Electrician team is here to help. We’ll work with you to understand your vision for your lighting design so that we can make appropriate recommendations. We’ll help guide you in choosing the best strip lights for your space.

We can help with the installation process as well, running any necessary wiring and adding any extra features you’d like. Our lighting experts can help you transform your space with tape lighting, so call us today for a free consultation to discuss your ideas.

Adding closet lights to brighten your day

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 18:15:00 GMT

We all know the struggle of waking up and getting ready in the mornings. Wouldn’t it be great if there was a way to make this process easier on your mind and body? In fact, there is. Closet lights come in a wide range of color temperatures , and selecting the right one can make it easy to transition into wakefulness so you can start your day refreshed and ready to go.

All About Closet Lights

It may seem obvious that closets, especially large walk-ins, should have lights, but it is remarkable how many home builders don’t include this feature. For many builders, closet lights are an afterthought, if they are included at all. If your home did come equipped with closet lights, they are likely of the fluorescent variety or some other cheap installation.

While fluorescents are fine for providing light, they won’t do much for your mood and self-esteem in the mornings. Instead, look for light bulbs that mimic daylight. Being exposed to sunlight first thing in the morning can help you to wake up, and lights that create this effect can be helpful as well.

Benefits of Closet Lights

The most obvious benefit of having lights in your closet is that you’ll be better able to see what you are doing when getting ready in the morning. As mentioned previously, choosing the right color temperature for your lights can help ease you into your day by helping you to wake up.

In addition, the right lighting can do wonders for your self-esteem. When you look good, you feel better about yourself, which can have positive repercussions throughout your day. In establishing your closet lighting, don’t just put lights overhead, as this can cause harsh shadows. Aim to fill in the lighting from the sides as well, like with sconces or wall lights, to help you look and feel your best.

Closet Light Variations

Closet lighting typically comes in two primary categories: battery-powered and hard-wired. If your home doesn’t have the necessary wiring in place to support lights in your closet, battery-operated lights may seem like an easy solution. While this can be true temporarily, it is not the best long-term decision.

Batteries run out over time, so you’ll need to replace them periodically. The hassle of doing this may make you less likely to use your closet lights. Then, you’ll lose out on all the benefits. In addition, you may notice your lights dimming as the batteries begin to run low.

Hard-wiring your lights may require a bit more expense and effort upfront, but you’ll be rewarded in the long run. Once the lights are in place, you’ll only have to replace the bulbs every once in a while. With modern LED lights , you may not have to replace them for many years down the line, given their longevity.

To help save electricity , you also have the option of choosing lights that are motion-activated. This way, the lights will only turn on when you actually need them. If you forget to turn them off in the rush to get out the door in the morning, they’ll turn themselves off after you have been out of the room for a few minutes.

Call Us for Closet Light Installation

If you need wiring installed in your closet to accommodate new lights, 24/7 Local Electrician is here to help. We’ll run any necessary wires and get your new closet lights installed quickly and efficiently. You can always count on us to clean up after ourselves, so there is no need to worry about us making a mess of your closet. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment .

Can lights vs lamps

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 17:09:00 GMT

When you are working on a DIY project or other hobbies, including arts and crafts with your kids, you’ll need to have plenty of light to see what you are doing. Without enough light , you run the risk of making errors in your work or even injuring yourself in the process. To get the illumination you need to work safely and accurately, you have many lighting options available to you. Two of the most common choices are can lights and lamps. Each has benefits and drawbacks, so keep reading to learn how to decide which is best for you.

All About Can Lights

Can lights, also called recessed lights, are fitted directly into your ceiling. This gives them an overall appearance that is sleek and elegant. The simple styling of these types of lights makes it easy to fit them into just about any decorative style. You’ll also have a number of options to choose from in terms of finish, allowing you to complement your home’s paint colors.

This type of lighting can provide ample overhead lighting throughout the room. Depending on the fixtures you choose, you may also get dimming capabilities to allow you to adjust the lighting for other purposes besides work. However, because the light comes from above, you may find that you end up with shadows on your work area. You’ll need to install several lights in strategic places throughout the room to minimize shadows as much as possible.

One of the key benefits of recessed lights is that you won’t have to worry about your kids messing with them, as they are fully out of reach. However, you won’t be able to change the angle of the lights as you would with specialized task lighting. You’ll also likely need to call in a professional for the installation unless your home is already wired for overhead lighting.

All About Lamps

Lamps give you greater flexibility in terms of where to place your lights. You’ll also be able to choose from many different styles, including table lamps , floor lamps, and desk lamps. You’ll have a plethora of options in terms of aesthetics, with many different colors, finishes and shade styles available. This way, your lamps can serve as decorative pieces as well as functional ones.

With the exception of task lamps, many other lamps may not necessarily provide the brightness you need to work. Because of this, you may need to have more lamps than you initially might think in order to get the illumination you need. You will, on the other hand, have a bit more control over where you direct the light. This will enable you to get the light exactly where you need it while working.

Finally, you’ll be free to move your lamps around as your needs change, which you can’t do with can lights. This does expose them to a bit more risk from rambunctious children , but you’ll get the benefits of greater affordability as well. You also won’t need to do any construction to install them. Simply plug your lamp into a standard wall outlet, and you’re good to go!

Get Help Installing Your Can Lights

If you are interested in learning more about installing can lights or other lighting styles in your home, the 24/7 Local Electrician team is here for you. We’ll evaluate the current wiring in your home to let you know what needs to be done to accommodate can lights. We’ll provide you with a free quote before we get started, so call today to schedule a consultation appointment .

Why You May Need New Circuit Breakers for Christmas Lights

Thu, 12 Dec 2019 19:16:00 GMT

The latter case is definitely a situation where contacting a residential electrician to undertake a circuit breaker upgrade makes so much sense. That’s because you might be looking at breaker box repair without having the work performed, with perhaps also having electrical panel upgrades as part of the overall package.

Amping it Up

The number of amps in one of your circuits will be able to handle from 15 to 20, but it’s unlikely that many people pay attention to such numbers. That could cause problems that result in a fire, which could turn a festive time of year into one that brings about sadness or destruction. A simple way to avoid such a problem is by having a circuit breaker upgrade done.

Circuit Breaker Concerns

Regardless of which approach you take, it’s essential that the circuit breakers for Christmas lights you have in place can handle the electrical load. While it’s always convenient to simply plug as much as you can into a single outlet, that’s a recipe for breaker box repair that will have you calling a residential electrician to fix the problem.

One reason why many people over the years have stuck with basic Christmas lighting is because of the electricity costs involved. Those concerns have largely been reduced in recent years because of the emergence of LED lighting, which can result in a steep drop in such costs. In addition, the chances of suffering a short-circuit will be reduced.

Potential Panel Problems

Another recent development is the development of technology that, in turn, requires added electricity. If this situation is already present in your home and you still want to ensure that the circuit breakers for Christmas lights can handle the added usage issues, then electrical panel upgrades are the best route to take.

Without panel upgrades, the efficiency of your electrical power is likely to be compromised and can be a constant source of aggravation at a time that you should be feeling jolly. Those homeowners who are living in older residences should think strongly about this since it’s likely that such upgrades have become imperative.

Warning Signs Emerge

You’d like to get your Christmas lights up as soon as possible in order to deliver maximum impact for a time frame that amounts to roughly a month. There are warning signs will likely emerge once you put them up that can point out the need for a circuit breaker upgrade that will eliminate the fear of an expensive and needless breaker box repair.

If the lights you’re using are either flickering or dimming or you’re hearing crackling or buzzing noises, the clock begins ticking more loudly about contacting a residential electrician. The longer you wait, the more of a risk you’re taking and the final repair bill you have is one that will cause you indigestion.

Choosing the Best Path

Sitting back and enjoying your Christmas lights is easy to do when you have J&B Electrical Services addressing those matters. Our licensed electricians can make sure that the level of circuit breakers for Christmas lights you need can handle the load, offering you and your family invaluable peace of mind.

24/7 Local electrician can also handle electrical panel upgrades or make any repairs or replacements in that area. We want you to get total fulfillment from the holiday season, so if you want to start the process, make sure to give us a call at (833) 220-2525 or simply fill out our online form.

How to Use a Multimeter to Test Outlets

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 20:24:00 GMT

The hope in such cases is that the issue is just momentary in nature, but using that device can help determine if you need electrical outlet repair performed by a residential electrician. Yet some people can be intimidated when it comes to using it, even though the process is simple in nature.

Using a multimeter for an outlet that’s not working might help discover that the simple lack of power could be related to either wiring that’s been reversed or whether the proper grounding for an outlet has been performed. The result could be detected beforehand in a residential electrical inspection by an electrician in Arlington , but before taking that step, make sure to:

Making Adjustments

Prior to choosing the AC function on the multimeter, the meter should be set to measure voltage. One easy way to avoid the inadvertent mistake of selecting DC is by noting that the latter function will have a line that’s both solid and dashed. In contrast, the AC function should be represented by a wavy line.

Location, Location, Location

Knowing the lay of the land when you test outlets are absolutely essential, since the end result of ignoring this aspect can be a disaster and the need to contact a residential electrician. In this case, the three outlet slots are represented by the right being hot, the left being neutral and the half-circle is for grounding.

Testing Priorities

Of course, when you test outlets, there’s always the danger of receiving an electrical shock. To avoid that scenario, leave one hand free and grip both meter probes in the same hand. However, make sure not to have the probe’s metal parts touch or a short-circuit is likely, which means contracts an electrician in Arlington for electrical outlet repair.

A Key Connection

The two leads need to be connected when testing home outlets, with the red going into the connector that either resembles a horseshoe or has a plus sign attached. The black connector will either be found by spotting a minus sign or the word “COM,” with both of these performed during any residential electrical inspection.

Checking for Proper Voltage

Once the connectors are ready, insert the black lead into the larger vertical slot and the red into the smaller one. Using the multimeter should show the proper voltage of 110-120 volts, but if it doesn’t, there’s likely a wiring issue involved.

Making a Grounding Check

A check of the grounding begins by removing the black lead and inserting it into the slot for the ground outlet. Those same voltage numbers should also be seen and if they’re not, there’s a problem connected to the grounding.

Issues with Wiring

The final component of testing home outlets with a multimeter, especially with major appliances, involves checking to see if wiring concerns are at the heart of the problem. Keeping the black lead in the ground outlet, insert the red lead into the neutral slot. If a number comes up, a wiring issue exists, while the absence of one point to a lack of grounding.

Doing the Right Thing

24/7 Local electrician knows that not everyone wants to tackle this matter, which is why we can offer a qualified electrician in Arlington and the surrounding suburbs who’s been properly trained to test home outlets. In addition, our licensed technician can perform electrical outlet repair, replacement or upgrades, while also being qualified to perform a residential electrical inspection.

So whether you need to test outlets or maybe need to address something a little more complicated, make sure to contact us at 24/7 Local electrician. We’re ready to make sure that the residential electrician you have working for you will be sure to always do things right the first time. Just contact us at (833) 220-2525 or fill out our online form.

10 Outdoor Extension Cord Safety Tips

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 13:35:00 GMT

Using these types of cords outside means following established extension cord safety practices. Below are a list of 10 safety considerations that would be endorsed by any electrician in Arlington:

Cord Differences

People sometimes under the mistaken assumption that indoor and outdoor cords are interchangeable.. That error can lead to, at minimum, costly outlet repair and at worst, destruction of your property or even death. That harrowing fact is why being attuned to that simple fact is vitally important.

Don’t Go Cheap

A truly basic issue that some may overlook involves the legitimacy of the extension cord itself. Always avoid using cords that lack evidence of having been tested in an independent laboratory, with UL the most prominent example. Otherwise, you’re taking a risk on a substandard product.

Checking for Damage

Extension cord usage, like everything else, means wear-and-tear will take place. Frayed wires can result or maybe the need for repair of an outlet becomes clearly evident. The bottom line is to make sure that a licensed residential electrician tackles this job.

Don’t Overload

A fact that can be overlooked in the zeal to put up holiday lighting is that overloading an extension cord.is tempting fate and might end up requiring a visit from an electrician in Arlington for outlet repair. Avoiding extension cords altogether and instead scheduling an outdoor outlet installation is the best plan.

Keeping Cool and Dry

While outdoor cords will deal with the elements, putting them in areas where standing water or the occasional snow accumulation takes place can cause damage. Proper extension cord safety also means that they should be allowed to let the heat within the cord dissipate.

Avoid Using Longer Cords

Another overlooked aspect of putting up holiday lighting or using yard maintenance tools is the inevitable desire for convenience. Some homeowners look to use one long extension cord instead of having another outlet installed outside. The problem is that longer cords can’t handle as much current as shorter ones, which present problems for big holiday lighting presentations or that fall yard work.

Cleaning Gutters Beforehand

No one wants to clean gutters, but performing this task before putting up any outside lighting can help avoid an inadvertent tragedy from developing. The danger involved relates to the heat from an extension cord that might come into contact with leaves still in the gutter, which lead to the start of a fire.

Too Much Heat

While current is supposed to be traveling through a working extension cord, one that’s hot to the touch or is making the plug feel the same way should be a red flag. The easiest solution is to no longer use it, although having an electrician take a look at your set up might be good advice.

Not a Permanent Fix

Extension cords are supposed to be a temporary solution to an issue you might have outside your home, not a permanent presence. Contacting an electrician to have an outlet or two installed eliminates that issue. Given the short window for your holiday lighting, that job should be performed sooner rather than later.

Don’t Mess With the Prongs

For those with two-prong outside outlets, there can be an urge to remove the grounding pin on an extension cord to make it fit for your yard working or for lighting purposes. That’s a recipe for disaster and should be avoided with a simple outdoor outlet installation.

Experience and Trust Combined

An easy way to insure extension cord safety for your outdoor outlets is to contact J&B Electrical Services for your outlet repair or installation. The residential electrician we send can perform those tasks promptly and at a fair price, while also performing any necessary replacements or upgrades. 24/7 Local electrician in Arlington you need, so give us a call at (833) 220-2525 .

6 things to know about residential electricians

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 20:12:00 GMT

Most of us don’t have a residential electrical contractor or company we can call our own until we have a problem or project. What should you know when selecting a residential electrician? Today, we look for an internet site; if a business isn’t online, how up-to-date is their service?

Here are 6 qualities to look for in residential electricians:

1. Appearance

If a beaten-up van pulls into your driveway and your electrical professional looks anything but professional, think twice. It’s not being judgmental; trade professionals take pride in the quality of their work and it shows. If their appearance is unkempt, they may not respect themselves or their work. How well will they respect your property?

2. Effective Communication

Pay attention to how quickly residential electricians respond when requesting a quote. They should arrive on-time for your meeting, or call if they are going to be late. Did they document the work needed and make notes or use a checklist? Did they provide you with a copy and review what is needed before the quote?

3. Residential Electricians Can Troubleshoot

Experience is important because it takes know-how for residential electricians to troubleshoot:

The “haunted” house had some spooky stuff going on upstairs and downstairs, including shower-head shock! The experienced electrical troubleshooter found a circuitry routing problem and even a utility company issue.

4. Talk Money Before a Project

A reputable company will be as up-front about pricing as possible. Get quotes. An extremely overpriced estimate is a red flag, but what’s more important is how your electrician explains the charges. The best residential electricians stand behind their prices because they understand the intricacies of your particular project.

5. Residential Electricians Should Be Licensed, Bonded, & Insured

You need an R-11 license to be an electrician in Arizona. You must also have 4 years of experience and pass a two-part test. Ask if your electrician has insurance protecting employees and company equipment. The contractor should also have insurance that protects your home and property if there is accidental damage.

6. Testimonials, Recommendations

Word-of-mouth has always been the best advertising campaign. Today’s businesses also need “word-of-internet,” or testimonials. Testimonials are actually more valuable because what a customer says is gone as soon as the words are uttered. Online testimonials are forever.

Recap: Your Checklist for Residential Electricians

When requesting information or project bids from area residential electricians, pay attention to:

24/7 Local Electrician of Phoenix

We don’t sell a particular brand of equipment and we don’t work on commission. This means when your 24/7 Local Electrician pros recommend something, our advice is based on what you need; not what makes more money for us.

There are codes and regulations for Phoenix-area construction and remodeling projects, and we want to keep your property “up-to-code” to protect your family and your investment. If your project involves rewiring, circuitry, or any work involving your breaker box , it’s better to be safe than sorry (or injured) and hire a professional.

Protecting your home, loved ones, and respecting your budget is something we care about. As a LEEDS-certified metro Phoenix company, protecting the environment for your children is something we care about as well. Contact 24/7 Local Electrician for advice or to learn more about residential electrical work.

How to Know When It’s Time for a Bathroom Exhaust Fan Replacement

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 17:04:00 GMT

Eventually, the time will arrive when a bathroom exhaust fan replacement will become a necessity. After all, appliances have a maximum lifespan, just like everything else. Yet there often tends to be a reluctance about the decision to replace exhaust fan appliances by contacting a residential electrician , largely due to potential costs.

Listed below are three clear signs that point to contacting an Arlington licensed electrician for your bathroom exhaust fan replacement :

No Fan Activity

The simple flick of a switch is supposed to result in the exhaust fan delivering its intended results. The problem is that sometimes, dead silence is all that’s heard, which can be a clearly ominous sign that either a bathroom exhaust fan repair or replacement is on the horizon.

In some cases, the problem could lie in the switch itself, which will also entail contacting a residential electrician. That doesn’t occur too often, with the ultimate conclusion determining that you need to replace exhaust fan parts or the entire fan itself.

Slow Starts

The spinning of the bathroom exhaust fan blades should be instantaneous once you hit a switch. Eyebrows are raised and concerns amplified when a fan takes its time to get going or is simply sputtering after a normal span of time.

By this point, the exhaust fan may be past the point of repair. Even if fixing was a possibility, trying to save some money with some DIY work or employing a handyman may isn’t the best strategy That’s because a residential electrician knows the proper protocol that puts a premium on doing this work safely.

Unwanted Noise

You don’t need to be an Arlington licensed electrician to realize that something is seriously wrong with your bathroom fan when the noise coming from it is loud and unpleasant. The quiet hum of that fan is one of the chief reasons why this particular appliance doesn’t get a lot of notice until there’s a problem.

That particular noise could be delivering an annoying clanking sound or a disturbing aural presentation that mimics rumbling. Regardless of what you happen to be hearing, such red flags mean that the blades on the fan are out of alignment or the appliance’s bearings are on their last legs. At that point, repair is out the window and replacement is the only option.

Lack of Ventilation

Any poorly-ventilated room isn’t one in which anyone wants to spend any extended amount of time in, with individuals afflicted with respiratory issues potentially putting their health at risk. The cause could be ductwork that’s clogged, a remodeled bathroom that neglected to upgrade the size of the exhaust fan or simply an increased amount of activity in this room.

Going In the Right Direction

24/7 Local electrician is a trusted source that can send an Arlington licensed electrician when you require bathroom exhaust fan repair or need to replace exhaust fan parts. A full bathroom exhaust fan replacement or upgrade is also something we handle on a regular basis, which means that it’s handled promptly and performed at a fair price.

So when the time arrives that you need such work done, please contact us either by phone at (833) 220-2525 or simply fill out our online form. We’ve had countless satisfied customers over the years and want you to put our faith in us. We look forward to hearing from you.

Understanding The Basics Of Your Home Electrical Panel

Thu, 15 Aug 2019 13:33:00 GMT

Age Differences

Depending on the age of a home, the panel that should be working can vary. A residence that’s been around for decades will often have the traditional fuse or breaker box. That’s where a homeowner can usually handle standard breaker box repair by replacing one or more fuses that might have blown out for any number of reasons.

The growth in new and remodeled homes has allowed the concept of a fuse box to evolve into what many refer to as the load center. Here, wires and cables that should be installed by a licensed residential electrician are connected, with the service wire and branch circuits working in concert to allow a smooth flow of electricity.

Location, Location, Location

The location of an electrical panel is usually in a utility area or basement, with a distinctive gray metal box helping it to stand out. Opening the panel will show an array of fuses or circuit breakers that each have their own focus and should be so identified in the event that any electrical panel repair or upgrades are needed.

The Makeup

Any new homes or residences that have undertaken electrical panel upgrades will have two pole breakers as part of their electrical panel. Each can cover different components of what a particular home may need, with the single version having a capacity of 120 amps that will handle small appliances. That’s in contrast to the double breaker that has twice the level of amps in order to handle a home’s larger appliances.

Homeowners with older residences may be looking at expanding the size of a home or simply modernizing it, which means that electrical panel upgrades will be in order. For the newer homes that are or may be considering a larger remodeling project, the electrical panel in place should probably have expansion slots available.

There can be instances where emergencies arise and a home’s power needs to be shut off quickly, which explains the presence of the service disconnect switch. Any repair, whether it’s handled in DIY fashion or though a residential electrician, will take advantage of that switch in order to maximize safety.

Staying Alert to Clear Signs

Electrical panel repair might not be as serious as to shut things down completely. However, glaring examples like loose wires have to be addressed quickly, along with other breaker box repair that may be the result of damage from weather or other unexpected events.

Making Things Easy

An electric panel is often the lifeblood of a home, with any sort of issue or breakdown making life more difficult for a homeowner. 24/7 Local electrician has an established track record in handling both electrical panel repair or replacement with electrical panel upgrades and can provide trusted service on your home.

So when the time arrives that breaker box repair or any other electrical concern arises, make sure to contact the trusted professionals at 24/7 Local electrician We offer a competitive price and provide a residential electrician who’s been trained to detect such issues as quickly as possible. Contact us at (833) 220-2525 and let us get you back up and running.

Top 10 Summer Electrical Safety Tips

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 18:28:00 GMT

To make things easier on the homeowner, listed below are 10 summer electrical safety tips they can follow:

All Outlets Aren’t the Same

Being outside more often inevitably leads to more electrical appliances and devices being used. Yet it’s imperative that the homeowner to be aware that both outside outlets and those indoor areas that get wet need to have GFCI outlets in place. That’s because they’re built to handle wet areas, unlike standard outlets.

The Dangers of Frayed Cords

Regardless of where an appliance may be, the inevitability of the cord getting frayed exists. That can lead to possible danger down the road, which is why having your Arlington residential electrician take care of the situation is your best bet. That avoids inattention leading to catastrophe or tragedy.

Repairing Outlets

Besides replacing cords, considering outlet repair is another wise decision. Outlets can go bad for no reason, but there always tend to happen at the wrong times. By repairing or even replacing them, the problem gets fixed with no stress involved.

Common Sense Matters

We’ve all been taught to stay away from metal objects when lightning arrives, yet there are still far too many injuries and deaths every year because of people who try and tempt fate. The surge of electricity from lightning is no match for any human, so there’s no need to risk your life or that of others by ignoring this basic tenet.

A Smart Home Solution

The idea of a smart home installation is something that can not only save a homeowner money, but make life safer. In the latter case, this can come about through helping maintain the water quality of a pool through proper filtration. One other important facet that comes with a smart home installation is that a summer vacation can be more relaxing by remotely handling electrical usage.

Upgrading Your Electrical Panel

The increased usage of electricity both inside and outside can deliver a burden that your current electrical panel may not be able to handle. However, electrical panel upgrades eliminate that problem by increasing the amps needed, which translates to no danger of shorts or other other electrical disasters on the horizon.

Pool Safety Necessities

Heating your pool requires electrical connections as do other related issues for this fun oasis. Making sure that those connections are fully grounded can help avoid disaster from rearing its ugly head. It also helps to remember not to handle any electrical tools or appliances while wither wet or in the pool.

Avoiding Power Lines

Summer weather has its drawbacks, with inclement conditions possibly downing power lines. Staying away and never touching a downed power line will keep you and your family alive since electricity is still present.

Considering a Whole House Surge Protector

Power outages can lead to lengthy delays in getting back to normal. Avoiding that can be accomplished by having a whole house surge protector installed, which will insulate vulnerable outlets.

Get Familiar With Circuit Breakers

When an outage takes place, the problem can be connected to a circuit breaker. Trying to find that can be frustrating if you’re unnerved by the situation, so know beforehand where they’re located.

Call the Experts

When you have an electrical issue, the good news is that 24/7 Local electrician can handle these jobs. The Arlington residential electrician that we send out is well-equipped to take on jobs that might involve an outlet repair, replacement or upgrade. We can also perform a smart home installation, electrical panel upgrades that might also be simple repair or replacement.

The bottom line is that 24/7 Local electrician is the only business you should call regarding such matters. Just contact us by phone at (833) 220-2525 or fill out our online form.

Hiring an Electrician to Install an Electric Vehicle Charging Outlet

Wed, 12 Jun 2019 19:53:00 GMT

Tesla has put its stamp on the market over the past decade and is poised to become one of the leaders in the luxury vehicle market. This has led to buyers searching for a residential electrician in Arlington who has the skills necessary to efficiently handle a Tesla garage charger installation.

Breaking New Ground

Knowing how to install an electric vehicle charging outlet is a branch of the electrician skills department that’s still in its infancy. That means that choosing the standard handyman to be your home Tesla charging outlet installer likely means that you’ll be working with someone who doesn’t possess the requisite skills to get the job done right.

While most hybrids and lower-budget electric vehicles don’t possess a great deal of range, the same can’t be said for a Tesla, which can go hundreds of miles on a single charge. That means that a standard Level 1 installation won’t handle the job, and requires that your residential electrician in Arlington take on a 240 outlet installation.

A Different Challenge

Your home has plenty of large appliances that already require a 240 outlet, such as refrigerators or dryers. A 240 outlet installation in garage surroundings is a challenge that might stump that handyman or the DIY homeowner looking to save some money, given the steps that need to be carefully taken.

One basic reason why the use of a licensed and experienced electrician is best under these circumstances is that your breaker box may need to be completely replaced when you install an electric vehicle charging outlet. That’s not always the case, but having your home Tesla charging outlet installer inform you beforehand will save you headaches down the road.

A Tesla garage charger installation may also involve some tricky wiring issues that a professional is fully prepared to tackle. Throw in the tasks of securing the four-strand cable and ensuring that it’s properly insulated against damage from weather-related concerns and other factors and what seems like a simple 240 outlet installation becomes much murkier.

Protecting What’s Important

Any type of 240 outlet installation in garage facilities has to be done properly, because it’s helping to maintain a steep investment on your part. Instead of hundreds of dollars on an appliance, you’re talking about protecting something you’ve paid tens of thousands of dollars for that you don’t want to see ruined.

Choosing a residential electrician in Arlington has always offered any number of options. However, finding one with the versatility to serve as your home Tesla charging outlet installer doesn’t mean having to spend hours trying to find one and hoping that they can be trusted.

Going With the Professionals

That job to install an electric vehicle charging outlet is something that the professionals at 24/7 Local electrician have the skills to handle. They know the difference between a standard 240 outlet installation and a 240 outlet installation in garage surroundings, especially one that’s connected to a Tesla garage charger installation.

So make sure to contact 24/7 Local electrician for any of your electrical needs. Feel free to contact us by phone at (833) 220-2525 or just fill out our online contact form. We look forward to hearing from you.

Why You Should Upgrade Your Business With LED Parking Lot Lighting

Tue, 07 May 2019 13:22:00 GMT

Regardless of the particular needs of such entities, advancements in lighting in recent decades make clear why a decision to upgrade parking lot lighting is a wise course of action. In particular, any commercial lighting installation that involves LED parking lot lighting makes the most sense.

Any commercial electrician Arlington businesses have used in the past knows very well why LED parking lot lighting is such a logical choice. These include:

Better Quality

Standard parking lot lights have always varied when it comes to quality, a status that often depends on the willingness of that business operator to invest in a good system. When you have an electrician in Arlington upgrade parking lot lighting with LED’s, that value literally shines bright.

Once that commercial lighting installation is completed, the visual impact of such a change is unmistakable. That changes what might otherwise be a foreboding place where people fear for their safety into a brightly-lit facility where those same individuals have a better sense of where their car is located.

Lower Energy Use

Parking lots that are otherwise run in a professional manner will have a good deal of lighting, with the quality of that investment again open to the individual firm. That means a large monthly fixed cost that can materially affect the bottom line, a situation that can be alleviated when a call is put in for an electrician in Arlington.

Once that commercial electrician Arlington companies use completes such an installation, the level of reduction in energy usage can be a welcome relief to those paying such monthly bills. That’s because it’s estimated that LED’s will help bring about a drop of up to 90 percent, thanks to fewer watts being needed and the focus on lighting instead of serving as a needless heat lamp.

Maintenance Cost Reduction

One of the frustrating aspects of traditional lighting has always been the need for frequently having to replace lights that burn out or otherwise become faulty. For those running parking lots, that often results in replacing all of the lights at the same time in order to avoid the added costs involved with bringing in an electrician as each light burns out. That can be a costly expense for lights that might otherwise be running fine.

However, using LED lighting can make such visits few and far between because such lights have a lifespan of over a decade, which again can help cushion a company’s bottom line. Continually buying the lighting itself and then having the added labor costs can be a thing of the past when the shift to LED’s is undertaken.

The Best Way to Go

The facts above clearly point out why any decision to upgrade parking lot lighting should be followed by a request for an electrician in Arlington from 24/7 Local electrician. With over two decades of experience in the field, the commercial electrician Arlington businesses will have at their disposal has been rigorously trained in all aspects of any commercial lighting installation.

That continuing education the 24/7 Local electrician includes LED parking lot lighting, which ensures that once the job is completed, your investment will begin paying off. So if you’re ready to make this move, contact us by phone at (833) 220-2525 or simply fill out our online contact form on our website. We look forward to hearing from you.

5 Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Light Switches

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 17:45:00 GMT

In truth, there are distinct ways in which the need to replace light switches can be spotted. From that point. any light switch installation can be handled by a residential electrician , though it’s becoming increasingly popular to install smart light switches. That’s because of the cost savings that can be seen over that subsequent lifespan.

In many cases, your senses can be your best weapon in making an accurate assessment. That’s not the only thing that you’ll need, though it’s integral. Five specific signs that light switch replacement is imminent include:

Do You Hear What I Hear?

Flipping a light switch on shouldn’t bring with it any attention, yet your ears should immediately perk up if a noise is heard when that happens. It can be the sound of crackling or popping that sharply resonate, though in some cases, a hissing or buzzing noise might be what comes through.

Regardless of what that noise turns out to be, it’s a clear indication that real trouble could be on the horizon. Noises like that simply don’t go away on their own and could be indicative of a possible fire down the road. Gambling that won’t be the case is a dangerous bet that isn’t worth taking.

The Eyes Have It

Seeing is believing when it comes to discovering you need to replace light switches, since clear signs will emerge without much effort. All you need to do is see lights go off without anyone touching a switch or watching lights flicker in such a way that the need for a change becomes obvious.

Another way may be more subtle in nature since it will depend on the intensity of the light that’s being used. If other lights become slightly dimmer when either turning on or off another light. a problem exists. Finally, another simple visual will note when a switch plate looks either darkened or has a look of being scorched. If it’s reached that point, light switch replacement should be high on your agenda.

How Old is That House?

Older house have a charm all their own, yet those that are more than four decades old likely have an outdated setup in place. That type of situation is tailor-made for an upgrade that would include having a residential electrician install smart light switches.

A new light switch installation can be an investment in the future that can pay for the visit by that electrician. That comes through the energy savings that can accumulate over the ensuing years, through the use of dimmers and other concepts that keep a close watch on your energy usage.

Feeling the Heat

A light switch can often feel warm, but when there’s an uptick in that warmth, it’s a cause for concern. Wiring issues can be the source of the problem, with too much voltage surging through this area. That’s a potential fire in waiting, which means that immediate attention is absolutely necessary.

Delayed Reactions

The immediacy that comes when a light switch is flipped should be instantaneous. However, light switch issues are evident when there’s a delay of a few seconds before a light comes one. That’s a clear indication that the wear-and-tear on the electrical contacts within the switch is getting worse. This is another case where ignoring the problem won’t solve the issue, which means getting in touch with an electrician is your best move.

Decisions Made Simple

Getting in touch with 24/7 Local electrician to either inspect or replace light switches is an easy solution to such problems. The residential electrician we send out can repair, replace & upgrade electrical components and light switches, helping ease your mind. So whether you’re looking to upgrade to smart light switches, need simple light switch installation or help with any other electrical issue, contact us at (833) 220-2525 or fill out our online contact form.

Why Hiring an Electrician to Install a Smart Doorbell Is a Bright Move

Wed, 20 Feb 2019 22:11:00 GMT

Now, continued advancements in such technologies mean that using a smart doorbell installer is the best route to take when you want the job performed correctly. Major companies that offer such items include Nest and Ring Doorbell, with many of these businesses extolling the ease when it comes to installing their equipment.

However, the reality is that hiring someone licensed for this job offers a reassuring feeling that the job will be done both correctly and in prompt fashion. Having a Nest electrician, an electrician for Ring Doorbell or any other licensed individual who knows their way around any sort of smart home installation can help avoid complications that could crop up.

The Value of Smart Doorbell Installation

For example, a smart doorbell installer will put in a doorbell transformer and thereby drastically reduce the amount of electric voltage to an amount that works in concert with the device. The potential dangers involved with working with such matters help bolster the case for using this type of installer for your doorbell transformer.

One of those dangers is a simple one involving the turning off the electricity before beginning this process. That may seem like a basic step, but actually performing the task beforehand requires knowing the proper steps in addressing the issue. That can be complicated when such jobs are handled by an amateur handyman or someone who fancies themselves as a weekend electrician.

The Wonders of Video Surveillance

Of course, one of the chief assets that make smart doorbells so popular right now is the ability to see from afar who’s at your door. That’s become much more important given the drastic rise in stolen packages that are left unattended in home mailboxes or porches.

Now, having video of the criminal act allows for local law enforcement to use such evidence to more confidently pursue and capture the perpetrator. A residential electrician who’s been properly trained as a smart doorbell installer helps put such protective measures in place.

Wiring Made Simple

A smart home installation that also includes doorbells offers the option of going wireless, though that means having a working battery in place. Those homeowners who want more simplicity can adapt it to their current doorbell, which will involve having it properly wired.

In such instances, it doesn’t matter if you require the services of a Nest electrician, an electrician for Ring Doorbell or other option. Knowing the ins and outs of proper wiring is standard for trained electricians, so making sure things go smoothly from the outset means working with such individuals.

The Easy Answer

One simple call to 24/7 Local electrician will help ensure that any facet of your smart home installation is done right the first time. The residential electrician that we send out has been rigorously tested to handle a range of different brands. That includes serving as you Nest electrician or as your electrician for Ring Doorbell.

That sort of background helps avoid you having to search for a doorbell transformer or other task in an effort to save some money. 24/7 Local electrician can either replace or upgrade your current situation or repair it, so make sure to contact us if you’re having issues. Simply call us at (833) 220-2525 or fill out the contact form on our website. We look forward to serving you.

New Year’s Resolution for Home Electrical Upgrades

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 17:12:00 GMT

Upgrading home electrical appliances and other areas can cause local homeowners to cringe because of the belief that they’ll be unable to find an affordable electrician in Arlington. In reality, working with a licensed residential electrician can end up saving money in some cases because of such things as electrical panel upgrades.

Below are solid ways to make practical New Year’s resolutions which zero in on upgrading home electrical equipment within your home:

Changing Over to GFCI Outlets

All new homes that are built need to have GFCI outlets in rooms that have sources of water in them. That simple fact is a sign that hiring a residential electrician to perform home electrical upgrades of this nature is the wisest course of action. Otherwise, you could be needlessly subjecting you and your family to the possibility of electrocution.

In addition to switching to GFCI indoors, it certainly makes sense to also address outdoor areas that will inevitably see rain and the occasional snow. Having these outdoors is also a required for new residences, so making old things new again can include this plan.

Making Electrical Panel Upgrades

Just as the shift to GFCI has taken place, upgrades of electrical panels has become a virtual necessity, especially when it comes to those in older homes. That’s because the range for amps within a panel has tripled from what it was a few generations ago, making your current set-up woefully out-of-date,

The reason for such an expansion deals with the explosion in technological devices that have been developed, especially those within the past few decades. Needing electricity for all these devices can tax your electrical system and lead to breakdowns or worse. Contacting an affordable electrician in Arlington to make these changes puts an end to any more concerns.

Investing in Tamper-Resistant Receptacles

Children within a home are one of life’s true treasures, which has been the thinking behind the use of child-proof plastic plugs. However, it’s been shown that relying on this option can sometimes lead to tragic consequences that can devastate a family, which explain why installing the tamper-resistant variety is the best approach.

The difference between the two is that tamper-resistant plugs have shutters attached that are spring-loaded. This helps guarantee that those slots will be unable to be accessed by children whose curiosity might get the better of them. Peace of mind at a reasonable price is a steal of a deal.

Going With a Whole-House Surge Protector

Surge protectors can help protect against dangers electrical surges that can destroy expensive appliances and devices. With so many homes having so many devices these days, the use of so many different surge protectors can inundate homes with a sea of these unsightly products.

When you choose to have a whole-house surge protector installed, its offers one central area that acts against any outside surges that might enter a home. That offers a much-less complicated process that can make your life simpler.

Going With the Pros

Upgrading home electrical equipment, which might involve electrical panel upgrades, is a specific area in which 24/7 Local electrician particularly excels. That’s why when homeowners look for an affordable electrician in Arlington they can trust, we are right at the top of their list.

That’s because the residential electrician we send to your home has been rigorously trained to handle upgrades of this nature. In addition, they know how to tackle repair jobs in a prompt and professional manner. So for any home electrical upgrades you might need for this year and beyond, make sure to contact us today at ( 833) 220-2525

Preventive Measures – Install Security Lighting to Protect Your Home

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 23:05:00 GMT

This type of electrician in Arlington TX has been licensed to make such installations and has enough experience to offer up some key preventative measures that can be implemented. Taken together, they can offer options that serve as a protective blanket for a family that takes the plunge to install security lighting.

Listed below are some of the ways that a home security light installation can deliver the intended results:

Surveillance Enhancers

There are some homeowners who already have a security system in place, with cameras scoping out key areas of their property. However, there can often be areas that can slip through the cracks with respect to providing enough light to spot a potential criminal seeking to either rob a family or worse.

By having a residential electrician install things like floodlights or adapt the electrical wiring to accommodate those hidden areas, the chances of falling victim to such dangers should be considerably diminished. Asking your electrician in Arlington TX about such steps is all it takes.

Installation of Smart Timers

Nobody stays in their home 24 hours a day, with vacations often taking families away for an extended period. If ou have the home has either no security in place or lacks certain mechanisms to account for such absences, it can lead to the prospect of coming home to disaster. In such cases, the feeling of violation resonates through every individual.

However, when smart timers are part of your decision to install security lighting, you have the assurance of knowing that lighting will go on and off at selected times. That’s the same as if someone is already there. While that may not stop the most determined of criminals, it’s often a powerful deterrent that can keep you and your family safe.

Putting Motion Sensors in Place

Having your electrician perform a motion light installation will ensure that any movement on your property will be immediately result in light emerging. In the vast majority of instances, this won’t involve any incursion onto your property by the criminal element, but simply acknowledge the presence of you, your family and friends.

In such circumstances, this type of home security light installation can actually serve as a benefit. That’s because it will help avoid stumbles from objects that go unseen in such dark surroundings. That can be especially important for the elderly or people unfamiliar with your property. Of course, a motion light installation will also shine a bright light on anyone who’s not supposed to be there, which has a strong tendency to quickly drive them away.

The Assurance of Professional Installation

Some people attempt to try their luck at these types of installations under the guise of trying to save money. What usually happens is that some step was overlooked along the way, causing problems in getting the security setup to work properly. Even worse is not taking the proper steps to avoid any risk to the installer or to the people in the home.

The good news is that easy access to a qualified electrician in Arlington TX isn’t a problem. Contacting a residential electrician means that your home security light installation will go off without a hitch because they know exactly what they’re doing when they install security lighting. So whether your job involves motion light installation, smart timers or anything else to help you feel more secure, going with the pros is always your best bet.

Top 10 Holiday Electrical Safety Tips

Wed, 14 Nov 2018 21:32:00 GMT

Staying safe and keeping your property protected when it comes to such issues is why having access to an electrician Arlington TX residents can trust makes so much sense. A professional electrician knows what to look for with these potential dangers, which can be addressed through the 10 tips below:

Getting a Checkup

One quick way to put your mind at ease with such matters is to contact a residential electrician and have an electrical inspection done. This will help fix what’s already considered to be hazardous and make sure that some pending potential tragedy is averted.

Awareness of Key Outside Lighting Differences

One visual trademark of this time of year is a holiday lighting installation that can span from modest to over-the-top. Regardless of what your preference is for a holiday lighting installation , the reality is that stringing lights outside requires lights that are rated for outdoor use. Another important point is that outdoor lights should be plugged into Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets.

Some More Outdoor Wisdom

In addition to the different lighting required, the holiday lighting installation you put up outside should also include some common sense steps along the way. That means always keeping cords above ground and keeping them out of the path of people either driving or walking to and from a residence.

Make Sure of Certification

Any qualified residential electrician will offer strong encouragement about using only certified lighting prior to any installation. That’s because they know that substandard options likely haven’t undergone rigorous safety checks, which is why those come cheap and why having a trustworthy electrician Arlington TX residents is always worth its weight in gold.

Protect Those Cords

One personal electrical inspection that the average home owner can perform is to simply make sure that the cords won’t get damaged. That means not putting them under rugs, where they can get stepped on, or attaching them in some primitive way by using staples or a nail.

The Three Strings Limit

A standard Christmas light installation will involve stringing lights on a tree, around a room or outside. Some homeowners make the mistake of trying to string as many strands of lights as possible. However, three should always be the limit with your Christmas light installation, since going beyond that risks a blown fuse or a potential fire.

Three Feet of Distance

The number three also comes into play when a Christmas light installation near heat sources is considered. Making sure that there’s a separation of at least three feet will eliminate the chance that such proximity might serve as the spark for a calamitous fire. In roughly half of house fires involving decorations, this problem turns out to be the cause.

Avoiding Overload

Any qualified electrician Arlington TX residents use will tell you to keep a watch on the number of outlets being used. Such usage with other electric items can tax outlets and set the stage for a house fire that can develop quickly. Bringing in a professional electrician to add more outlets is the wisest course of action.

A Safer Candle

Having candles in the window or otherwise displayed evokes warm memories of the holiday season. However, they also mean a potential fire hazard, something that can be eliminated by using electric candles that can be plugged in. Assuming you have enough outlets, the fear of flames getting out of control is gone.

Turn It Off

Having an electrical inspection done by a professional electrician is invaluable, but one bit of simplicity doesn’t require any level of expertise. That involves simply unplugging any decorations or blowing out lighted candles when you go out or go to bed. Such items lose their value when you’re not there and needlessly increase electrical costs.

5 Benefits of Hiring an Electrician to Install Holiday Lighting

Wed, 17 Oct 2018 18:35:00 GMT

While a Christmas light installation is the main area of focus when such discussions arise, many people also want to make their mark with a Halloween light installation. After all, you’ve got the entire month of October to show off, a stretch that’s capped with the holiday itself. Such efforts have a tendency to amaze awestruck children during their trick-or-treating.

Yet safety factors should always be of paramount concern, which means that using a residential electrician in Arlington from J&B Electrical Services is a wise decision. That’s because using an Arlington electrician as your holiday light installer offers invaluable peace of mind that’s worth the investment you make.

Below are five benefits you’ll get when using a residential electrician in Arlington from J&B Electrical Services:

Gaining More Free Time

The process of any holiday light installation can be a laborious process that can lead to frustration. It can also eat away at your spare time, since your role as holiday light installer means that you have to put it up, take it down and also check for any non-working bulbs.

Most people want to spend some time outdoors before the temperatures start to dip. A Halloween light installation cuts into that time, just as a Christmas light installation cuts into shopping for presents, holiday parties and other fun things. Using an Arlington electrician for these jobs gives you that time back.

The Convenience Factor

Electricity costs money, which means that the longer the lights are on, the higher your bill the following months. Some people forget to turn them off before they go to bed, while some don’t get home until long after dark. Using an electrician to make sure that that these lights go on and off at specific times helps eliminate this problem.

Staying Safe

Installing these lights often means using a ladder, which can cause havoc for the amateur installer. At the same time, knowing the nuances of electrical circuits isn’t something most people are familiar with under these circumstances. Unknowingly overloading circuits may put you and your family in danger, something that an electrician can properly address.

Addressing Potential Problems

Besides the matter of safety, there can be circumstances in which issues that might otherwise go unnoticed by a homeowner become clearly evident to the trained eye of an electrician. These include wiring that’s in the early stages of being frayed, plugs that are showing plenty of wear-and-tear and the amount of wattage or amps that’s needed for a particular job. The electrician can make sure everything is ready to go.

Creative Input

Envisioning exactly what you want in these types of lighting installations can be difficult. An experienced electrician has the background to offer cogent advice on things like where newly-installed outlets will work best, exactly what setups deliver the most impact and will use LED lighting to help reduce that electrical bill.

The Right Choice

24/7 Local electrician has a residential electrician in Arlington who can serve as your holiday light installer. So whether you need a Halloween light installation, Christmas light installation or any other type of holiday light installation, make sure to remember that 24/7 Local electrician is the Arlington electrician you can trust to do the job right.

5 Benefits of Installing Recessed LED Lighting

Tue, 18 Sep 2018 21:29:00 GMT

Any recessed lighting installation can offer benefits, with advancements regarding LED lighting installation taking it one step further. Listed below are five reasons why a recessed LED lighting installation can offer the type of benefits that make such an effort worthwhile:

A Feeling of Roominess

Some rooms have lower ceilings than others, which combined with lighting fixtures that might currently be in place, offer a cramped feel to the surroundings. While this standard setup doesn’t necessarily rise to the level of being claustrophobic, it’s still something that can infringe on the comfort of enjoying the room. By installing recessed lighting, the image of that same area suddenly changes from tight to roomy, which in turn makes it more inviting.

The Value of Versatility

Any residential electrician will tell you that not all of their work involving any sort of light installation can simply be transplanted from room to room. Some jobs involve areas where water is an ever-present concern, such as the bathroom. From a more specific standpoint, the shower area is not the place you want dangling wires and other potentially dangerous concerns.

The good news is that when you have a recessed LED lighting installation performed by that electrician, you can protect you and your family because all that will be visible is the necessary amount of light and nothing more. Other options can’t say the same.

Style and Aesthetics

Trendiness when it comes to lighting can turn a room or even an entire home into something dated and can also offer an unappealing look. That’s avoided on both fronts in this case because this is a look that stays consistent and also offers a smooth appearance that’s unobtrusive. Simplicity has a style all its own and recessed lighting fits this specific category.

Protecting the Wallet

One of the reasons that LED lighting has exploded in popularity over the past few decades is because of the energy efficiency it delivers. That efficiency then manages to reduce monthly electricity costs, which is money that stays within the family budget. Given the simple fact that electrical costs are a monthly fixed expense, it should register with everyone that having a recessed lighting installation that take advantage of LED is the most logical approach.

The Lowering of Concern

Past generations have had to deal with the issues of lighting fixtures that dangle from the ceiling, simply because that was what was available. That’s meant having to concern yourself with the potential danger of children seeing it as an attractive nuisance. It’s also meant the settlement of dust onto the fixtures, which then requires cleaning that may be a dicey proposition in some circumstances. Once again, a recessed lighting installation addresses the matter at hand.

The People to Trust

Given the multiple benefits explained above, you might be enthusiastic enough to try and handle that recessed LED lighting installation all by yourself. A better idea is to let a highly-trained and certified residential electrician tackle this job, given the experience needed for this job and their ability to avoid potentially dangerous pitfalls.

24/7 Local electrician has that background in installing recessed lighting and can also repair, replace and upgrade other lighting you might need. Just give us a call at (833) 220-2525 and we’ll make sure to get your lighting order started.

4 Tips On Getting Affordable Electrical Repair in Arlington

Wed, 01 Aug 2018 20:36:00 GMT

Choosing any Arlington electrician for your job simply means you’ll end up being quoted any price. That scattershot approach can mean you end up with a quality job being performed-and a huge bill. It can also mean that you have the false impression that the electrician being used knows what they’re doing. That money you think you’re saving goes down the drain when you discover that their shoddy work will require another call that costs more money.

J&B Electrical Services has heard such stories before. That’s why the list below offers four tips on finding an Arlington electricians that can be trusted to perform trusted electrical repair in Arlington at an affordable price:

Doing Research and Prep Work

Beyond the aforementioned value in determining an electrician’s quality, you need to focus on their legitimate qualifications. Does the person have the experience like those at 24/7 Local electrician? Perhaps more important is whether they’re is licensed to perform these duties as all of J&B’s are, or is he just a glorified handyman. In the latter case, that can lead to cutting corners, which is dangerous when you’re working with electricity.

Before the electrician arrives, it’s also a good idea to make sure that a clear path has been made to the problem area. That’s because ignoring this means that the electrician will have to waste time to create a viable workspace, which then means a longer job. Since electricians work by the hour, that means you’ll be paying for this omission.

Staying Local

Any major firm employing electricians, whether it’s regionally-based or has a footprint that spreads across the country, has the money to prominently advertise their services. Of course, simply stating that their residential electrician can handle the job doesn’t always mean that’s the case. The same holds true for a commercial electrician that’s tasked with an emergency.

If something goes wrong or their employees take their time performing a job, complaining about such performance can often get lost in the bureaucracy of a large company. By choosing J&B, you have the comfort in knowing that customer service is one of the paramount tenets of the company’s philosophy.

Bundling Jobs

Fixing one job may address a pertinent problem, but other issues may also be in need of attention. The cost of multiple service calls can quickly add up for any home or business, but if such potential concerns are handled within the same trip, the savings involved can eliminate the problem and help your finances stay in order.

Asking About All Charges Beforehand

Different electricians may have charges that end up on your bill. These might be connected to things like travel charges or a higher rate charge for the first hour of work. The research you do before also plays into this, since some firms may not make that information readily available or conveniently forget to inform you, which leads to sticker shock.

J&B makes sure that all of its customers are never surprised when the job is done, offering fair market value for the work performed. They welcome any questions about the charges and make sure that the upfront approach is the lasting memory the customer has of the company.

Simple Peace of Mind

With over two decades of experience to offer those needing electrical repair in Arlington, 24/7 Local electrician has long been a trusted local source in this department. So whether the need is for a residential electrician or commercial electricians, make sure to hire 24/7 Local electrician to be your Arlington electrician.

We offer first-time customers a 10 percent discount and work quickly to install or repair lighting, panels and other household items. We also offer 24-hour emergency service, so make sure to contact us at (833) 220-2525 or fill out our online form.

Why You Should Have an Electrical Inspection After a Lightning Strike

Mon, 09 Jul 2018 19:49:00 GMT

The Problem of Surges

The prospect of tragedy largely relates to being directly hit by lightning, but individuals will remain in danger until all electrical issues have been properly addressed. One of the ways that such issues continue to exist relates to the problem of electrical surges that can often leave clear signs of their impact and demand an inspection after surge damage has taken place.

Many people are under the false impression that by simply purchasing a surge protector, they’re immune from any infliction of damage during a lightning strike. In reality, many strikes can render this piece of equipment useless in the blink of an eye and cause confusion during a moment of crisis.

That explains the wisdom in contacting an Arlington electrician for an inspection after surge damage has clearly occurred. Residential electrical inspections related to either surges or lightning strikes should be undertaken, which can sometimes make a homeowner reluctant because of the perceived cost. However, an affordable electrician is really only a phone call away.

The Value of an Inspection

That affordable electrician has been trained rigorously to conduct the sort of tests around a home that can immediately spot any problem areas. Ignoring the issue is never the answer in these circumstances, considering the potential for a fire to break out from damaged wiring.

Damage to wiring within the walls of a home is particularly insidious. Those residents in the home may be blissfully unaware of the possible damage that’s been done or frustrated because they can’t figure out the reasons for their lack of electricity. Any electrical inspection after lighting strikes from a licensed Arlington electrician will be able to detect the problem and fix the issue.

Removing the Mystery

The level of uncertainty connected to what damage has taken place because of a lightning strike is indicative of why going it alone should always be seen as a bad strategy. Some appliances may be ruined, yet others may be humming along with no problem. The average person isn’t going to be able to solve this paradox on their own, which again is why the concept of residential electrical inspections makes so much sense.

The Best Option

24/7 Local electrician is a company that has plenty of experience when it comes to residential electrical inspections. Our depth of knowledge when it comes to an electrical inspection after lighting strikes or any inspection after surge damage has occurred is invaluable during what’s invariably a tenuous time in your life.

That’s why more and more homes use us as their Arlington electrician. They know that we offer an all-encompassing approach to our inspections and appreciate the fact that we serve as an affordable electrician they can trust. So when the time arrives that you need such help or need to repair, replace or upgrade electrical panels, give us a call at (833) 220-2525 at any time around the clock or use our online contact form.

The post Why You Should Have an Electrical Inspection After a Lightning Strike appeared first on J&B Electrical Services .

How to Get a Swimming Pool Electrical Inspection

Fri, 20 Apr 2018 19:13:00 GMT

For those in commercial industries, like the lodging business, apartment complexes or even municipalities, not getting this task performed diminishes the marketability of an important asset. This issue also requires the need for a swimming pool electrical inspection, since that requirement is what keeps swimmers from experiencing such standard concerns as an ice-cold shock when they jump in a pool.

Licensing, Permits, and Expertise

Regardless of whether or not you have need of a commercial electrician or a residential electrician , that individual that ends up conducting a particular swimming pool electrical inspection has to be officially licensed and have the proper background when it comes to knowing all that’s involved.

Such training isn’t something that a handyman can just read out of a nearby manual or instruction that’s rushed through. Certification only comes after that person passes a state exam, with knowledge of the particular safety code for a jurisdiction something that can vary.

These professionals know that any swimming pool inspection doesn’t begin until a permit is obtained because failure to handle this simple priority will immediately get a pool closed. Water and electricity usually aren’t a good mix, but when either a licensed residential electrician or commercial electrician has the requisite skills to conduct this test, that symmetry helps avoid any compromising of the chemicals in the pool or worse, a tragedy from the possibility of electrocution.

Areas of Inspection

Things like a working filtration system and lighting for a pool need to be in place or else the overall operation might be put in jeopardy. That electrician will have to check out the control panels and wiring to make sure everything is properly in place. All of these areas have to be in full view of the inspector or approval will be impossible.

Also, an assessment needs to be made of all of the surrounding areas to take into account the presence of overhead wires or more contemporary concerns like cell phone towers or wi-fi hotspots. In all, it’s likely that multiple inspections will be required before the passing inspection can be accorded.

The Solid Selection

A pool’s true value is seen by the economic drawbacks for businesses that delay a swimming pool inspection while getting full value from a pool for any homeowner is also put on hold. That’s why it makes sense to use 24/7 Local electrician for your swimming pool electrical inspection.

Having immediate access to either a commercial electrician or residential electrician helps expedite the inspection process. So put yourself at ease and contact 24/7 Local electrician when you need that work handled.

The post How to Get a Swimming Pool Electrical Inspection appeared first on J&B Electrical Services .

The Importance of Following a Commercial Electrical Wiring Diagram

Mon, 12 Feb 2018 23:15:00 GMT

Not bothering to use these diagrams for whatever endeavor is being addressed can be a recipe for disaster that can turn a simple and inexpensive job into a costly mistake. A commercial electrician needs to have a complete picture in front of them, with the intricacies of these diagrams providing a clear window into a particular system.

Listed below are some of the main reasons that using a commercial electrical wiring diagram makes perfect sense:

The Financial Component

Given the varied nature of these types of jobs, an electrician in Arlington Texas doesn’t have the luxury of simply purchasing the same amount of wiring for every job. They need to have a strong sense of the scope of their work order since a mistake in this area will be reflected in the final costs involved.

For example, trying to properly gauge how much wiring is needed is something that even an experienced electrician can’t peg exactly. That may lead to purchasing too much wiring, which then effectively goes to waste, or requires an additional budget expense to address the need for more wiring. In either case, it’s a costly oversight that can be a source of aggravation for a client.

The Time Element

The building of a home or the construction of a business entity is something that the individual or company that’s making the investment watches carefully. They have a clear expectation of when a job should be completed, which allows them to schedule a move accordingly.

That means frustration will quickly set in for them if they find that an electrician’s mistake or lack of adherence to the building codes in place is a cause for delay. By using these diagrams, an electrician can pinpoint exactly where certain areas are situated, which keeps things on track and offers peace of mind to everyone involved.

The Concern Over Safety

Playing a guessing game is something an electrician never wants to do, which explains their dedicated reliance on following these diagrams. Their own safety can be compromised if they aren’t aware of facets of a particular structure that could cause harm at some point. This type of wiring diagram helps remove such dangers.

Without the safety blanket that a diagram provides, the volatility that any electrical concern brings can deliver serious injury and even death. From a simple business perspective, that means delays that can have a direct impact that ties in with timing concerns. However, from a human standpoint, these dangers can end up taking a life, which could invite litigation down the road.

Choices Made Simple

Spending time over concerns related to commercial electrical wiring isn’t really a wise investment for either an individual or business. That burden can be alleviated when the choice is made to work with 24/7 Local electrician in providing a licensed and experienced commercial electrician for a particular job.

We offer professional aid when it comes to electrical panels, whether it involves repairs, a decision to upgrade or an outright replacement. So when the time comes that you need an electrician in Arlington Texas that knows their way around wiring diagrams and all that entails, make sure to contact 24/7 Local electrician at (833) 220-2525 or fill out our online contact form.

Why the Holidays are the Best Time To Upgrade Your Kitchen Lighting

Tue, 12 Dec 2017 21:11:00 GMT

When it comes to lighting concerns during this particular time frame, many homeowners may focus on the outside of their residence. Others may be more concerned with living rooms, basements or other areas where family and visitors might end up congregating.

A Subtle Asset

The kitchen might not seem to be an important area of consideration when it comes to this issue. Yet going forth with kitchen lighting upgrades can end up being beneficial when welcoming friends or putting forth the sumptuous feasts that many families prepare every year.

Making the decision to upgrade kitchen lighting before or during the holiday season helps ensure that bright and festive not only represents the emotions of all involved, but also delivers the visual impact being sought. After all, few people want to be surrounded by a darker atmosphere at that time of year, something that kitchen lighting upgrades can help avoid.

Those tasked with preparing food during the holidays don’t want that process to be handicapped by out-of-date lighting that could be of great value in certain areas. For example, lighting in areas like a pantry can help make finding the seemingly never-ending supply of ingredients needed for your food preparation much easier.

A Relaxing Option

Using a licensed residential electrician as your kitchen lighting installer for these matters can offer peace of mind at a time of year where the hectic pace often brings with it unwanted levels of stress. By making the decision to upgrade kitchen lighting in this manner, concerns over potential issues can quickly evaporate.

A professional kitchen lighting installer has been rigorously trained to do a job right, which means that your holiday party won’t be ruined or delayed because the lights in your kitchen evoke a dour atmosphere or cooking meals becomes more difficult. Using a residential electrician also gives protection to the homeowner when it comes to things like warranties for work performed.

Important Considerations

In past generations, the kitchen was largely focused on simply the preparation of a meal. That philosophy has since evolved, with areas like islands within the kitchen area now serving as places where guests come together. This often results from certain areas becoming crowded or more hectic. Adding lighting to this specific area helps offer a welcoming oasis that leaves guests with a positive impression.

Another aspect of the value of making kitchen lighting upgrades is that with all of that activity taking place in this area, the likelihood of higher electricity bills can often deliver a negative jolt come January. Upgrading antiquated fluorescent lighting with LED not only brightens things up but also will put money back in your wallet in the years ahead.

Trusted Partners

24/7 Local electrician has served as a kitchen lighting installer for countless residents of the Dallas-Fort Worth area and is ready to do the same for those seeking to have it done during the holidays. The residential electrician we send to your home has a full grasp of what’s involved and gets right to work.

So when you’re seeking to upgrade kitchen lighting, it makes sense to choose us in order to make sure that your holiday is a memorable one. Just call us at (833) 220-2525 or fill out our online form.

6 Types of Electrical Outlet Upgrades

Thu, 26 Oct 2017 22:08:00 GMT

Listed below are six different types of upgrades that a residential electrician in Arlington or Mansfield from 24/7 Local electrician can handle:

LED Lighting

The cost of electricity is a fixed cost that many families try and keep in check. Making an upgrade to LED lighting is something that uses much less energy, but also reduces the need to frequently change bulbs. The latter reason stems from the fact that LED lights can last as long as 20 years, which is exponentially higher than in the past.

At the same time, the level of electricity emitted from each bulb is considerably lower, something that will be reflected on your monthly bill. That makes the original investment made for residential electrician electrical outlet upgrades a worthwhile expense that end up paying for itself.

Recessed Outlets

One annoying aspect of traditional outlets has been the presence of the plugs that might obstruct someone from walking past it or put them in danger from tripping on the extended cords. However, using recessed outlets eliminates such concerns because they’re situated more inside where the previous outlet was, which means that the plug never goes farther than where the surface was in the first place.

USB Outlets

One of the first changes that came about when the aforementioned technologies began to establish themselves as a constant presence was the need for things like power strips to accommodate plugs used for adapters and chargers.

One dramatic change in this area that a residential electrician in Arlington and Mansfield now handles is the installation of USB outlets. No longer does someone have to use a plug simply to charge their smartphone or use as an adapter. Instead, devices that require USB have their own specific outlet.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI)

This is a relatively low-cost option that makes sure that if any interruption of a circuit’s electricity, an immediate shutdown of that circuit will take place. This is something that can be an issue after a brief outage that quickly runs the risk of a power surge that can damage or even destroy expensive devices.

Arc-Fault Circuit Interruptors (AFCI)

A serious issue with some traditional outlets is the prospect of overheating, which can lay the groundwork for damage that can result in costly repairs. Much like the GFCI, the AFCI is set up to quickly discover any marked increase in the temperature of the wiring. Once it’s detected, the outlet is shut down.

Tamper Resistant Receptacles (TRR)

Parents of young children have always been concerned about outlets being an attractive nuisance for youngsters, who may try to insert something in there. That’s because of the potentially fatal prospect of those youths either being shocked or inadvertently starting a fire. The design of these receptacles will prevent such a situation from taking place.

Your Best Choice for Upgrades

24/7 Local electrician makes it easier to schedule residential electrician electrical outlet upgrades that can save you money and keep you and your family safe. The residential electrician in Arlington or Mansfield that we send will arrive promptly and has undergone extensive training to provide quality service. So contact us today and let’s get the process started.

Bright Idea for Savings: LED Lighting for Your Business

Wed, 20 Sep 2017 20:53:00 GMT

Until the late 1970’s, businesses had few options in this area and usually had to accept whatever fluorescent lamps were on the market and schedule an installation with a commercial electrician. The frequency of having to change this form of lighting generally put a crimp in any attempt at reducing costs.

Cutting Energy Costs

That’s changed since an electrical installation in Arlington and other parts of North Texas offered the opportunity to upgrade to LED lighting. While the original cost might have dissuaded businesses from considering any LED lighting installation , that price has taken a steep drop within the past decade. In addition, the 75 percent drop in electricity use with this lighting avoids wasting even more money.

An Array of Colors

Another evolution of this market is the scope of options now available to a business. When LED lighting came on the market as a viable alternative in reducing costs for businesses, the only options when it came to color were red and green. Until white and blue diodes were invented in the mid-1990’s, the combination of lack of selection and prohibitive costs stalled any progress in this department.

Installation and Repair Costs Down

Since the lifespan of this form of lighting reduces the number of calls that a commercial electrician will receive, the maintenance costs for a business will be reduced. That includes any electrical installation in Arlington, any electric repair and everything in between.

An Employee-Friendly Consideration

Employee morale is an area in which LED lighting can have a subtle effect and potentially boost productivity. The harsh lighting that’s representative of old fluorescent lights had the potential to create eyestrain that’s avoided when it comes to the LED version. In addition, there are no UV rays to be concerned with when it comes to LED.

A Green Option

With environmental concerns also growing with each passing year, transitioning from fluorescent to LED literally shines a positive light on a business for making this type of move. Given the level of innovation that continues to take place when it comes to this form of lighting, the chance to reduce costs even further down the road exists.

The Right Choice

For more than two decades, 24/7 Local electrician has been a leader when it comes to any electric repair, replacement or upgrade for a business. We also can handle any electrical installation in Arlington for that entity in order to help them get a handle on those fixed costs.

So when the time comes to consider an LED lighting installation, contact 24/7 Local electrician and we’ll send an experienced commercial electrician to do things just right.

7 Common Home Electrical Problems to Watch Out For

Tue, 15 Aug 2017 20:24:00 GMT

That involves a call for a residential electrician who can provide the type of electrical services you need to get back to normal. In order to stay ahead of the situation and avoid the type of steep electrical repair bills that make homeowners cringe, listed below are seven home electrical problems to be aware of in your everyday life.

Warm Switches and Fixtures

One quick touch of a switch or fixture can allow you to make a quick assessment of this potential problem. The reason for this unwanted buildup of heat is that the wiring that’s currently in place is outdated and needs to be replaced. Calling for electrical services of this nature is infinitely better than allowing a potential safety hazard to continue unabated.

Flickering Lights

Even someone with absolutely no training can detect the presence of electrical issues when the lights in a room start to flicker. That means that something is loose along the circuit, something that can easily be handled by a residential electrician and avoided by anyone who considers themselves a DIY handyman.

Short Lifespan for Light Bulbs

While you may be using your lights a great deal, they could be getting replaced even more than you expected. It’s possible that low-quality bulbs are the reason, though it’s more likely that the circuit wiring or the socket connections are the source of this annoyance, an issue your electrician can handle.

Too Few Outlets

The onslaught of electrical devices that have entered the marketplace in the past two decades often need to be plugged into an electrical outlet. The problem is that those are usually already spoken for by other devices, which can mean the use of power strips, something that could result in an overload. Having new outlets installed by a professional electrician helps alleviate this problem.

The Death of an Outlet

While no funeral is required for this issue, it’s very likely that additional wiring issues might be the culprit in this case. Having electrical repair done can address this concern and can also handle another possible reason for this development: a breaker tripping in order to avoid a situation where the outlets wires get overheated.

Tripping Breakers

The issue concerning breakers can become a frequent problem in various parts around the home. If that frequency has increased, it’s a clear sign that your circuits are overloaded and need to be upgraded since the alternative is to ignore the problem and risk a potential fire within the home.

Cheap Wiring

You may be living in a home that was built when the decision was made to save some money by using aluminum wiring instead of copper. The problem is that corrosion can be a problem, which results in a loosening of electrical connections and lays the groundwork for a potential fire.

The Easy Choice

24/7 Local electrician is ready to tackle your electrical problem, which may include a replacement or upgrade. We offer more than two decades worth of electrical repair experience to the Metroplex market and are available around the clock. We want to be the residential electrician you call and can offer a 10 percent discount to first-time customers. So contact us when you’re having electrical issues in your home.

Electrical Panel Upgrade – How To Know When It’s Time

Tue, 18 Jul 2017 22:25:00 GMT

Still Relying on Fuses

Many older homes continue to run with fuses, which isn’t necessarily a concern. However, with the major increase in home appliances and especially electrical devices, it’s a situation that’s potentially dangerous. Therefore, making the choice to upgrade breaker box concerns like these means shifting to circuit breakers.

Doing so will avoid the problem of a fuse melting from excessive current that’s flowing, something that could spark a fire. That’s why many insurance companies now refuse to insure homes that rely on fuses and is something that can be addressed through electrical panel upgrades. Once circuit breakers are installed, they only need to be reset when overloading becomes an issue.

The Arrival of New Appliances

Older appliances can be managed with outdated electrical options. However, if a remodeling job or simple replacement of a worn-out item is on the horizon, it’s wise to schedule an upgrade in this department. Otherwise, you’re likely looking at electrical panel repair sometime in the future, since the breaker box won’t be able to handle such energy-consuming devices.

The Need for More Plugs

Even if no appliance deliveries are expected at your home, the sheer number of new electronic devices that have been acquired over the past few decades likely has increased your use of power strips and extension cords. Not taking that additional use of electricity into account can lead to residential breaker box repairs.

One way to avoid that hassle to is to schedule an upgrade, which can mean having new outlets installed. One key reason why that’s important is because of the potential fire hazard coming from an extension cord that provides multiple devices with electricity.

Wiring Worries

Even if everything is status quo in your life, the onset of things like receiving a shock when touching an appliance or lights that either flicker or dim for no reason should serve as red alerts. In some cases, this concern can be represented by a burning smell that doesn’t go away or outlets that either spark or are discolored.

The simple reason why ignoring these situations could prove to be disastrous is because all of the above are caused by wiring issues. That can put your home and the lives of you and your family at risk, which could be a devastating price to pay for ignoring residential breaker box repair.

Making Your Life Easier

If you plan to spend the next few decades in your home, it makes sense to contact 24/7 Local electrician to make allowances for the future. Our licensed electricians can help upgrade breaker box concerns and take care of any electrical panel repair and replacement.

Our electrical panel upgrades eliminate the issues previously mentioned from surfacing. Plus, you’ll know that you’re working with a local company offering a fair price that doesn’t add hidden fees and offers a 10 percent discount to first-time customers. 24/7 Local electrician has been around for over two decades and can help you with your electrical problems. Give us a call today at (833) 220-2525

How to Find an Emergency Electrician in Mansfield TX

Tue, 13 Jun 2017 19:45:00 GMT

Experience When It Counts

In addition to the trust factor, the skill and credibility of that electrician in Mansfield is integral to making sure that you’ve made the right decision. Your electrician should be able to perform all of the necessary tasks involved with a job, which might include breaker box repair or some other pertinent issue that’s cropped up and they should be licensed to perform such tasks.

Relying on an amateur handyman in an emergency situation can set the stage for making things worse. After all, an issue like the aforementioned breaker box repair can be a complicated situation in which precision and experience in handling such matters is paramount. In the rush to get things fixed, you might end up increasing the repair bill or putting you and others in danger.

The Value of Reliability

Even when you search for an emergency electrician Mansfield residents have used in the past, you may discover that they only have certain times that they’re available. Either that or the costs that they charge for emergencies are prohibitively expensive, diminishing the value they bring to the table.

Avoiding the Unethical Electrician

Some companies don’t think twice about adding on fees for what they perceive as inconvenience, with such things as a dispatch and service fee tacked onto the final bill. You may not discover such added costs until the job is complete, which can deliver an unwelcome jolt to your wallet.

Even more disturbing than electricians that take their time before arriving at an emergency situation are ones who attempt scare tactics in order to create additional business. They may paint a scenario in which something that doesn’t currently present a problem could manifest into some potential tragedy.

The Daily Necessity

Electricity is something that’s taken for granted, at least until an emergency strikes. That can bring with it fears from a homeowner about falling victim to the potential danger of food spoiling in the refrigerator or not being able to use any day-to-day devices. In the latter case, that can be important for the growing number of home-based businesses.

For the traditional business, not being able to conduct any work is a nightmare scenario that no one wants to contemplate. That’s because with each passing minute, the potential for lost business increases, something that might lay the groundwork for the eventual dissolution of a company.

Living Up to Your Trust

24/7 Local electrician has the experience and integrity to handle the job of being the emergency electrician Mansfield residents use in times of crisis. Yet our role as an electrician in Mansfield encompasses much more standard concerns, which means that we can repair, replace or upgrade your electrical panels to make sure that they keep running smoothly.

We also handle installation of recessed or LED lighting, take care of retrofits and address such things as breaker box repair before a situation actually becomes an emergency. We offer competitive prices and offer a 10 percent discount to first-time customers. Those values coincide with the ones we hold true from a personal standpoint, so make sure to choose the most trusted name when it comes to Mansfield electricians, 24/7 Local electrician. Contact us today.

Why You Should Stop DIY Work and Hire an Electrician

Fri, 12 May 2017 21:10:00 GMT

Of course, this also includes the area of electrical installations , yet many people seem to feel that the cost to hire a licensed electrician for any type of job is an expense they can work around. That’s a dangerous way to save some money and can end up not only putting a bigger hole in your wallet, but also setting the stage for potential tragedy.

Below are some clear reasons why it makes perfect sense to hire an electrician for any electrical repairs or installations you might require:

Making a Bad Thing Worse

Far too many people see a small electricity-related repair situation develop and think to themselves that fixing it won’t be a problem. Having no professional experience and focusing on simply getting the job done as quickly as possible, these individuals often end up turning what was a minor problem into a major situation.

That’s because they cut a wire they shouldn’t have or try and take a shortcut because a friend told them it would work. What ends up happening is that their small repair bill that they would paid prior to starting this work has morphed into a huge expense that’s going to a healthy chunk of change out of their wallet.

The Threat of Fire

All electrical installations or repairs need to be performed by a licensed electrician because of the chance that a spark might ignite, resulting in a fire that can damage, if not destroy your home. Anyone’s that licensed knows all of the precautions that need to be taken before work even gets underway.

Such work might involve having the knowledge to simply turn off the power or make sure that an area is properly grounded. This type of work obviously isn’t child’s play, yet inattention to handling basic safety concerns is often one of the key reasons that a fire erupts. Expressing regret after the fact won’t put those flames out, with the end result leading to potential devastation-all because you didn’t want to hire an electrician to do the job.

Health Dangers

Even for someone with a knack for being able to work with their hands needs to think twice when it comes to working on electrical-based problems. That’s due to the simple fact that just one mistake can end up being lethal and is tragically more permanent than accidentally hitting your thumb with a hammer.

Horrific world like electrocution, heart attacks are seizures can be used when someone decides that a DIY fix is the right plan of attack. The money you think you’re saving by doing things yourself might end up having to pay for extended hospitalization or your funeral, which is a chilling reminder of why such scenarios need to be taken seriously.

Doing Things the Right Way Every Day

24/7 Local electricia performs electrical repairs and also handles electrical installations for its customers on a daily basis, who have faith that the person doing such work is a licensed electrician who has been properly trained. We also can replace and upgrade lighting for both homes and businesses, so when you need to hire an electrician, make sure to contact the professional staff at 24/7 Local electricia.

What Is the Most Energy-Efficient Lighting for Your Home or Business?

Wed, 12 Apr 2017 23:38:00 GMT

Depending on the scope of such changes, any business or home lighting installation may be better served by having a residential electrician handle the job. That’s because they have a strong background in the inner workings of such projects, which sometimes become more dangerous if that installation involves an older structure.

For a homeowner or someone who owns a business, the standard incandescent bulbs that have evolved from the bygone days of Thomas Edison have not only become impractical, but also increasingly tough to find. In their place comes two specific options which can each deliver the type of energy-efficient lighting that brings more value to the upfront investment.

Compact Fluorescent Lighting

The aforementioned budgets for a business or home that are tighter than usual will likely lean in the direction of having these bulbs installed. The value that comes from using compact fluorescent lighting (CFL) bulbs is that this you won’t see any reduction in the light they receive. Yet you’ll still use an estimated 60 percent less energy than the traditional incandescent bulbs.

Adding up your current yearly energy costs and then reducing it by that percentage has the potential to yield real savings that can re-direct such money to more important areas. One rule of thumb when it comes to this type of business or home lighting installation is that you can take the amount of time standard bulbs last and multiply it by 10 to get an idea of the time frame for any replacement.

Given those benefits, the only drawback is that the CFL bulbs will be more expensive than the incandescent ones. However, the extended life of each bulb pushes back having to pay for new lighting on a more frequent basis.

Light Emitting Diode Lighting

Even more energy can be saved when the investment comes with light emitting diode (LED) lighting. In this case, the estimated reduction in a monthly bill will be 85 percent of what standard bulbs deliver. Using the same sort of math with CFL’s, multiply the time a traditional bulb lasts by 35 and you’ll have an idea of how the changing of such lights becomes much more of a rarity.

In some areas of a home or business, lighting can be more vulnerable to breaking. One way to reduce the odds of that happening is to have LED’s installed since they bring more durability, yet are able to maintain their lighting capability at a lower energy rate. In addition, these bulbs emit only small amounts of heat, which makes touching them a much safer proposition.

The lone drawback with an LED light is the cost, which is even more expensive than the CFL variety. Still, considering exactly how long this type of lighting remains in operation and the energy-reduction benefits it brings along, it’s certainly a viable investment.

The Residential Electrician to Trust

So when your project involves a home lighting installation, it’s important to remember that 24/7 Local electrician has an extensive background as a residential electrician. Of course, we’re also equipped to handle businesses and offer replacement or repair of any units for both, along with any energy-efficient lighting upgrades. So make sure to contact us today.

What To Do If Your Electrical Outlets Get Warm or Hot to the Touch

Fri, 10 Mar 2017 20:46:00 GMT

Such uncertainty can result in plenty of questions being asked by a homeowner in order to avoid the dangers of fire enveloping a residence. Taking the following steps can help quickly determine if you’re in need of electrical wiring repair from a residential electrician:

Unplug From the Outlet

Simply unplugging each device and then waiting an hour or two should allow you to make a determination if a call to a licensed electrician may be required. Due to the fact that some devices, like a cordless drill or a printer, have an internal transformer that allows for the voltage input to adapt to a particular product, the outlet can feel warmer than usual. After a certain period of time, the outlet should cool off.

Checking for Overload

The sheer number of different devices being used during the course of a day means that some people have to resort to power strips to accommodate all of their usage. That can result in plenty of heat coming from the outlet, something that can be ominous if ignored. By unplugging some of the items and using a different outlet, you’ll be able to determine if any current issue exists and whether a call to a residential electrician is required.

Consider Wiring Issues

Within the outlet or the switch, there may be a problem in connection with loose terminals. This is something that brings about more heat due to the electricity that still continues to surge, though it very well could dictate electrical wiring repair is necessary. Putting any such repairs off should never be a consideration because of the potential for the heat to develop into a potential fire.

Look for Wear and Tear

One of the reasons that wiring might be the problem is that the wires currently in use have been there for years. After a certain period of time, the ravages of age and the wear and tear that comes with frequently-used outlets mean that a call to a licensed electrician should be in order. They’ll be able to give a realistic assessment of what needs to be done, with any wires installed by a professional that knows what they’re doing.

Out-of-Date Breakers and Fuses

Those living in older homes may not have taken steps in the past to update their electrical needs, which means that the size of either the breaker or fuse might be in sync with the most current technology. That’s something that can directly affect the wires and potentially lead to a fire, which obviously means that prompt attention should be directed to making sure that an update is undertaken.

The Right Choice

24/7 Local electrician regularly deals with electrical wiring repair and has a licensed electrician ready to not only assess your situation, but fix it as well. We’ve been serving the Dallas-Fort Worth area for over two decades and have established a stellar reputation among our many loyal customers. Electrical issues are problems that can be fraught with danger, especially if you try to fix things on your own. Therefore, contact a residential electrician from 24/7 Local electrician and let us keep you and your family safe.

Perfect for the Cold: Enjoy Hot Tub Installation in Arlington

Fri, 03 Feb 2017 17:47:00 GMT

A Beacon of Excitement

The winter months can often be a dreary stretch that have to be endured, with the dip in temperatures begging residents to seek out warmer atmospheres. A hot tub will liven things up and potentially broaden the scope of anyone’s social circles.

Enjoying the benefits of a hot tub has become something of a pastime for many local residents, since that social magnet effect inevitably helps to draw in family and friends. Yet unless that hot tub’s properly wired, such fun won’t take place, which means that seeking out an experienced Arlington residential electricia n should be near the top of the homeowner’s agenda.

The Rules of the Game

Virtually every jurisdiction in the country requires that such wiring be performed by a professional electrician. Using an Arlington electrician that possesses the background to properly set things up is the simple solution to that concern and will put a resident that much closer to embracing the warm waters of that hot tub.

The reason for such stringent regulations stems from the complicated process that’s involved in getting things set up. An Arlington residential electrician is well versed in the steps that need to be taken and performs them in a professional manner.

The type of hot tub installation Arlingto n residents have in mind may have differences when it comes to style and level of usage. Yet the basics of that installation demand the attention to detail that only an Arlington electrician can provide.

A Focus on Safety

Whether you plan on enjoying the comforts of this valued equipment by yourself, with your family or make it a winter cocoon to kick back and relax with others, safety should always be a paramount concern. Using someone who’s unlicensed or offers an inviting price could lead to tragedy.

After all, water and electricity don’t always go together and one basic mistake by an amateur is something that can make anyone shudder. Besides the potential loss of life, the likelihood of subsequent litigation and an overwhelming wave of headaches because of such a decision are the likely byproducts that will take place.

All of that can be eliminated through the use of an Arlington residential electrician who knows what to do and who doesn’t take short cuts that could conceivably compromise the work that’s performed. Along the way, the most energy-efficient process can be set up in order to budget the energy costs involved.

Value and Trust in One Package

24/7 Local electrician has more than two decades worth of experience and is the company for hot tub installation Arlington residents have come to trust. That’s because that experience spans far beyond just hot tubs, including electrical panels that might be in need of repair, replacement or upgrade.

So when the time comes that you need an Arlington electrician you can put your faith in for any electrical-related concern, make sure to contact us at 24/7 Local electrician.

How to Conserve Electricity with Christmas Lights During the Holidays

Fri, 16 Dec 2016 19:27:00 GMT

In the latter case, that may lead to some steep electricity bills in January if you’re not careful. To avoid that shock to start the New Year, below are some tips on conserve electricity and save some major cash along the way:

LED Lights

The incandescent lights of past generations might bring about some nostalgia from some people. The problem is that using them for your Christmas light installation uses up major amounts of energy and eats away at your wallet.

When you replace them with LED lights, your costs go drastically down. One consistent estimate has incandescent watt usage being 12 times as high as LED’s, which means that you can save about 90 percent on your electric bill.

Preset Timers

Knowing that there’s only a small window to show off a lighting display, some people like to keep their lights on until the wee hours. The problem with that type of strategy is that the later the hour, the fewer the amount of people that will see the display.

That means that electricity is being used for no reason. However, by picking up a preset timer, you’ll be able to set a specific time of night for the lights to be turned off. This is also a valuable item to have since some homeowners will inevitably forget to turn off the lights and leave them burning all night long.

Don’t Rush

Many people like to start the Christmas season early, though most begin during Thanksgiving weekend. There’s no reason why you couldn’t begin a week later, since that still gives you a minimum of three to four weeks of lighting.

Unless you’re in the running to collect an award for having your lights up the longest, it won’t matter if you have yours up only during the month of December. It will certainly reduce your energy usage and will definitely result in a lower monthly bill.

Cool Parties

The holidays mean that everyone seems to be holding a party at some point, so if you have one planned, consider turning the thermostat down. It doesn’t have to go to frigid levels, but with a lower thermostat, fewer people will notice because all the extra bodies in a home are giving off an abundance of body heat.

Let the Tree Shine

A lit Christmas tree grabs the attention of anyone that walks into a room. With the abundance of lights on it, the brightness of the room won’t be affected if you turn off the room lights. It will definitely give the surroundings a much more holiday-friendly atmosphere and conserve electricity in the process.

The Right Call

In some cases, electrical issues require the presence of a residential electrician to get your Christmas light installation back in working order. 24/7 Local electrician is available for all types of repairs, replacements and upgrades of electrical panels.

Many of those upgrades will help conserve electricity in the future and it’s always the safest course of action to let a residential electrician handle such tasks. So make sure to contact 24/7 Local electrician today to makes sure that things are done right.

How to Prepare for Fall with our Home Electrical Checklist

Wed, 23 Nov 2016 19:46:00 GMT

Breaker Box Checking

This central aspect effectively serves as the nerve center for a home’s electricity. Looking at a fuse box prior to the onset of lowering temperatures can help address a number of potential disasters.

For example, a simple check of the breaker panel will help determine if the fuses being used for the circuit are the proper size. Not knowing the difference can be a potentially deadly mistake because of the danger of overheated wiring due to an excess of current flow. That’s something that can lay the groundwork for a home fire.

Circuit Breaker Fitness

Just like any human being, a circuit breaker needs a little exercise every now in then. In this case, that simply means turning them off and on at least once every year. This prevents them from becoming stuck, with a routine check during the fall an easy time to test things out.

For circuit interrupters, regardless of whether they’re ground fault (GFCI) or arc fault (AFCI), testing them on a monthly basis is recommended. Obviously, this can be part of the fall checklist though it’s recommended that such a consistent schedule is established. Just simply press the test button to check if it works.

Landscape Lighting Installation

With not as much daylight as the summer months, being able to stay outside gets to be difficult. That can change when landscape lighting installation becomes part of the overall equation for a home, since it allows for an aesthetically pleasing atmosphere and more security for the home’s residents. If you’re proud of your landscaping efforts, this is the perfect opportunity to show it off.

This type of lighting costs less for installation and can offer a safer alternative to the standard 120-volt system that many people attempt to use. There’s no need to offer up a glaring atmosphere, in part because of possible complaints from neighbors. With the landscape variety, subtlety wins out.

Water Heater Outlets

This is likely something that some homeowners don’t often notice—until something goes wrong. As the temperature drops, it makes a great deal of sense to consider all of the problems that may occur with this particular appliance.

Leaks within pipes for water heater outlets can be evident from the top or bottom. There may minimal or no hot water available. It might take an extended period of time for water to reheat because the vent flue is dirty or because of low pressure or simply be too hot. Finally, keeping the pilot or burner lit becomes a challenge or lighting the pilot simply becomes impossible.

These issues can usually be detected by a residential electrician Arlington residents trust long before any issue develops when regular maintenance is conducted. That’s usually a much better investment than waiting under potentially frigid conditions because of some breakdown in this area.

Getting True Value

While other aspects may also be pertinent, the ones noted above rank among the most important. Some may not consider the overall value of landscape lighting installation as an important issue, but neglecting the others can be disastrous.

So whether it involves an electrical panel, water heater outlets or some other concern, make sure to contact 24/7 Local electrician Arlington residents have come to know and trust for more than 20 years. The investment will be worth it.

How to Know When It’s Time to Call an Arlington Electrician

Tue, 25 Oct 2016 19:26:00 GMT

Overloaded Circuits

The avalanche of available technology within the past generation has made the extension cord an invaluable component of virtually every homeowner’s life. However, with all these additional items requiring electrical power, the available outlets can be taxed to their limit. This is especially true when it comes to those living in older homes that weren’t set up to accommodate such an influx of considerations.

When this situation develops, it’s something that can potentially lead to trouble. One of the easiest ways to eliminate the problem is to contact an electrician in Arlington that can add additional circuits. This approach offers a certain peace of mind by eliminating fears of a home fire developing from such overloads.

Lack of Three-Pronged Options

The development of the three-prong plug helped usher in a new era that focused a greater emphasis on safety. While the approach has been helpful in reducing potential dangers, older homes are likely to still have outlets that can only handle the two-pronged variety. That leads to the use of extension cords, with the aforementioned dangers of overloading once again surfacing. An Arlington electrician can tackle this task and make sure that any home is safely grounded.

The Flicker of Lights

Motorized appliances require a little more electricity than other areas, which can mean that the lighting within a home can be vulnerable to either flickering or being dimmed. Rather than attempt to burden all electrical capacity on a single outlet, it’s best to have an Arlington electrician create circuits that are uniquely focused on those appliances that demand.

Underneath Cords

Older homes can also fall victim to previous practices like having electrical cords either set up in unwieldy fashion or placed underneath a rug. This is another potential powder keg for home safety that can lead to residential electrical repairs down the road. A much easier proposition is to contact an electrician in Arlington that’s fully equipped to expand the available outlets inside the residence.

Too Much Warmth Can Leave Chills

The warmth in this case deals with any plug or electrical aspect that can be hot to the touch. When this is the case, that’s a fairly clear sign of an outlet that’s being taxed beyond its limit. Another tipoff is when you receive even a small shock when touching an outlet or switch. The age of a home can usually determine what type of electrical wires are in place, with homes that have aluminum wiring offering the greatest risk.

Fuse or Breaker Problems

A fuse can blow at any time and sometimes be easy to replace, though the wiring should be upgraded if possible. The problem is that when some blown fuses or tripped breakers take place, discovering the origin of why it happened can be difficult. That’s one of the reasons having access to a quality electrician is so important.

Placing Faith in Veteran Electricians

24/7 Local electrician has over two decades worth of experience in both residential electrical repairs and those on a commercial level. We’re fully equipped to upgrade or replace electrical panels, offering prompt attention and a legacy of integrity with every job.

Having an electrician in Arlington to do the job right and is available around the clock is important. That’s why making the decision to go with 24/7 Local electrician is the easiest decision to make. Contact us today and let us handle the job for you!

5 Things to Know About Home Electrical Inspections

Fri, 16 Sep 2016 21:33:00 GMT

Those living in older homes, ones that have been refurbished and ones with a major new appliance may benefit greatly from having a residential electrician in Arlington check things out. Below are five things to keep in mind when it comes to a home electrical inspection:

Safety Factors

In the span of four years from 2007 to 2011, there were more than 144,000 house fires that had electrical issues as the underlying cause of the blaze. The magnitude of that number and the untold number of lives lost offer powerful evidence of the importance of electrical inspections Arlington residents need to demand, depending on their particular circumstances.

These inspections help detect problem areas that can be addressed before the development of any life-threatening issues. Such problems are especially evident for those living in or seeking to purchase a home more than four decades old.

Insurance Costs

Due to those safety issues and the potential for individuals to also be at risk from some other issue, the costs to insure a home can be directly tied to the home’s electrical system. One that receives constant maintenance by having regular home electrical inspections performed will undoubtedly see reduced costs.

As with any other form of insurance, that protection is generally ignored until it’s actually needed. While some many see a visit from a residential electrician in Arlington as just another bill to pay, the collective savings when it comes keeping things running seem to be a good investment.

Wiring Differences

Much like the rings of a tree, a home’s age can often be assessed by the electrical wiring contained inside. The oldest ones will be using knob and tube, while ones anywhere for 40 to 50+ years of age can be detected by the presence of aluminum. Both are outdated options that may need to be modernized with the copper variety.

The older wires have a tendency to degrade over time, while another issue stems from the fact that the capacity of the amps is likely limited. In the 21st Century, with smartphones, big screen television and many other new appliances, this explosion of electrical options virtually demands electrical upgrading.

Energy Savings

With frequent fluctuations in the energy market, trying to simply get a fix on costs in this area can be difficult. That’s one reason why the type of electrical inspections Arlington residents should receive likely include ways to slice a homeowner’s budget for this fixed cost.

Approximately one-fifth of a homeowner’s budget is spent on electrical costs related to appliance usage. A ceiling fan could be one way to reduce such costs, which will entail proper wiring.

Quicker Sales

When a homeowner chooses to put their home up for sale, they want someone to purchase it as quickly as possible. One way to avoid any delays is to make sure that the home is up to the most current electrical code. That means going ahead with the conducting of electrical inspections Arlington residents know very well.

Once these are completed, any electrical concerns have been alleviated and negotiations based on clear trust in the information presented can go ahead.

The Easy Answer

24/7 Local electrician has performed home electrical inspections for over two decades, establishing a loyal customer base. That’s due partly to the work that’s performed on a daily basis by our experienced personnel. Treating customers right and exuding integrity helps us bolster our image, so if there’s a need for a residential electrician in Arlington, contact us.

24/7 Local electrician Is Hiring a Licensed Electrician in Arlington

Fri, 12 Aug 2016 20:11:00 GMT

Solid Growth and Success

When you really care about what you do, your commitment to customers becomes your strongest selling point. With more than 20 years of experience as licensed electricians in Arlington , we decided to turn that work ethic into our own business. We opened our doors back in 2008.

Since then, we’ve built our success by always delivering quality workmanship and genuine customer care. Honesty and integrity form the core values of our company family. Those principles have earned us a solid reputation as one of the most reliable electrical services in the Metroplex. We’re growing, and we have room for you to grow with us.

Your Talent and Experience

If you enjoy the challenges of troubleshooting and problem solving every day, put your talents to work for us. If you like a dependable mix of residential and commercial projects, we’ll keep you busy. These are just a few of the jobs that we handle on a regular basis:

• Home electrical inspections
• LED installations, conversions and retrofits
• Security, landscape and pool lighting
• Residential and commercial code compliance
• Breaker box upgrades
• Lease space wiring
• Commercial signage repairs
• 24/7 emergency services

If your experience covers these areas, there’s a place for you on our J&B team.

Our Expectations and Requirements

Our business continues to expand based on positive word of mouth and great customer references. We maintain that strong growth across DFW and the surrounding communities by performing every job with the highest levels of professionalism. We expect the same from you.

When you apply for employment with us, we require a current TDLR Journeyman Electrician license and residency in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. We offer the kind of position that makes coming to work every day something to enjoy. We look forward to speaking with you in more detail about your opportunities here at 24/7 Local electrician.

Give Us a Call Today

We invite you to join our company, grow with us and be a part of our success. We’re a family-owned business, so we invite you to be a part of our 24/7 Local electrician family too. For more information about our offer for an electrician job in Arlington, contact us today.

What to Do After Your Home is Struck by Lightning

Thu, 09 Jun 2016 20:27:00 GMT

The Power of a Strike

It’s no surprise that Texas recently ranked third in the number of insurance claims filed because of residential lightning damage. However, when we’re called in for a storm surge inspection, we find that folks are usually very surprised by the power of a lightning strike. It can hit a tree, a transformer or the lawn and energize the ground with more than 50,000 volts. Lightning travels multiple paths as it branches through a home along phone and electric lines, cable connections and metal window frames.

Electrical Surge Damage

When lightning hits your home, it can sound like a bomb explosion with an impact that shakes the house as it courses through conductive materials. The power surge blows electrical equipment off walls, knocks down lighting fixtures, melts wiring and scorches outlets. It ruins appliances, fries flat screens and creates multiple fire hazards. A lighting strike also generates intense shock waves that rock your home’s structure. The same forces that produce thunder claps can fracture brick and concrete, knock over chimneys and shatter glass.

Six Steps to Follow

The greatest danger from lighting surging through your home is always the risk of fire. Damaged wiring behind walls can short-circuit days or weeks after a strike. If your home is ever hit by lightning, follow these six steps.

Professional Inspection and Repair

You might not see scorch marks around switches or melted metal in outlets, but you can’t risk living with wiring damaged by a lightning strike. It’s very important to have your electrical system’s integrity confirmed by a fully licensed electrician. We always start the process with a complete inspection that includes testing conductor material resistance and insulation, verifying connections and confirming the condition of all outlets, switches and the breaker box. We address and repair all damage immediately so that you don’t have to worry about hidden fire hazards later on.

J&B Electrical at Your Service

Dealing with the aftermath of a lightning strike at your home can be very unsettling. It’s hard to wait on a storm surge inspection to confirm your home’s safety, and you want the house returned to normal as quickly as possible. We understand, so we offer 24/7 emergency services. Our master electricians inspect your entire property, and then we get right to work on any necessary rewiring, replacements and repairs. We make sure that your home’s electrical system is safe from ground to attic.

Your North Texas Residential Electrician

Here at 24/7 Local electrician , we’re ready to take care of you year-round with more than 20 years of experience. We handle everything from electrical surge repair after lighting strikes to landscape lighting installations. Wherever you’re located in Tarrant or Johnson County, you can count on our expertise. Contact us online , or give us a call today at (833) 220-2525 for the best residential electrician services in North Texas.

What to Do After Storm Related Electrical Damage?

Tue, 12 Apr 2016 20:27:00 GMT

Leave It to the Professionals

Some people with a knack for DIY-type projects should think twice before going forward with any electrical repairs on their own. Instead, simply contacting a licensed electrician in Arlington that’s also available for Metroplex residents is the proper decision. That’s because delving into this dangerous area on a whim may result in the would-be fixer being shocked, cause a fire to start or lead to severe injury and even the death of that person.

In addition, if you have homeowner insurance or insured items that have been damaged or destroyed during this type of storm, trying to fix things on your own often compromises your policy. The insurance company will likely refuse to pay and you’ll be forced to replace such items out of your own pocket-something that be an expensive proposition.

Just how expensive that can be seen is seen in financial numbers that show on a national level, the average storm repair cost ranges anywhere from $2,300 to $5,000. That can be an expensive lesson to learn.

Once the licensed electrician is called, they can arrange for permits to handle any repair job, make a thorough inspection of the affected area and then follow the proper protocol in getting things reconnected.

The Danger of Power Surges

When there are power outages, the resumption of that power comes with no advance notice or can occur almost immediately. That leaves individuals vulnerable to the prospect of power surges, which can quickly and quietly cause a great deal of damage and lead to electrical surge repair. That means the next step will be to contact an electrician in Arlington like 24/7 Local electrician to get things back in working order.

In the midst of an electrical storm, any lightning strike can lead to a surge. Just how quick that surge can be is seen in the fact that it lasts less than approximately one-thousandth of a second. In that microscopic amount of time, appliances can be ruined and even the potential for a fire exists.

Some of the reasons that electrical surge repair becomes a necessity is due to faulty wiring that offers no real protection against surges. While using things like surge protectors can help avoid at least some of the issues that develop, the reality is that short circuits and tripped circuit breakers can also heighten a home’s vulnerability.

The best strategy when an electrical storm is raging is to immediately unplug as many items in the home as necessary. Chief among these should be all expensive electronics, since having to replace them could put a serious dent in your wallet. Not doing this is a recipe for electrical surge repair.

The Electricians to Trust

At 24/7 Local electrician, there are no attempts at tacking on fees during the course of any electrical repairs or offering of any scary scenarios that end up costing our customers more money. Once a repair price is determined, that’s the only cost that will be charged by our highly-trained staff that has developed specialties in a variety of areas.

Over the course of more than two decades in the business, 24/7 Local electrician has helped Metroplex residents handle their electrical issues in quick fashion. That’s due in part to 24-hour availability, which means that we’re always one phone call away for those needing an electrician in Arlington and the surrounding area.

Storm damage can wreak havoc on your electricity, with surges, risers or downed lines just some of the dangers. Calling 24/7 Local electrician will offer some measure of comfort. That’s because of the trust they’ve instilled with the community through their skill and dedication to getting things back in working order. New customers will receive a 10 percent discount, so contact us today.

How to Liven Up Your Living Space With Custom Lighting Options

Tue, 08 Mar 2016 21:37:00 GMT

Recessed Radiance Flatters a Room

It’s just not fair to expect a few bulbs in an overhead fixture to cast a flattering light. Their downward glare casts shadows and leaves corners in the dark. We often recommend recessed installations for homeowners who want something that illuminates a room with an even glow. This type of residential lighting is a great choice for small rooms because it brightens up space without crowding walls and ceilings with fixtures. A custom installation allows you to configure recessed lighting so that it bathes large areas with a soft radiance, and dimmer switches let you set the mood. Invisible, recessed lighting works especially well with energy-saving, long-lasting LEDs.

Modern Tracks Complement Any Decor

You might think of track lighting as a contemporary style choice, but this versatile custom lighting option complements traditional and modern decor. We hang tracks over kitchen cabinets and cooking islands, and we install them in formal dining rooms. These fixtures have come a long way from the simple spotlights of just a few years ago. Today’s track lights are available in models that resemble small chandeliers or illuminated sculptures. Your color choices are endless, and tracks can run straight overhead or gently curve around corners. If you want to showcase a favorite wall grouping or shine a light on your best curio cabinet, adjustable track lights do the trick.

Exterior Installations Light Up Home Safety

Imagine coming home to more than a boring front porch light. Picture the house bathed in a soft, welcoming glow and the sidewalk safely lit with path lights. Exterior residential lighting doubles its return on your investment by highlighting the architectural style of your home and adding an extra layer of security to the property when the sun goes down. A combination of bullet fixtures, lanterns and decorative post lights turn the backyard into a bright spot for entertaining, and motion-activated security lights let you sleep better at night. Exterior lighting also enhances important property value, and it always adds to curb appeal.

If you’d like more bright ideas about improving your home’s good looks inside and out, contact us here at 24/7 Local electrician. We’ve been casting a better light on homes throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area for more than 20 years, and we also take care of repairs, replacements and electrical panel upgrades. When you want the best residential electrician in North Texas who can handle any job, contact us first.

Why Now is a Good Time to Install or Replace Ceiling Fans in Your Home or Office

Tue, 12 Jan 2016 21:14:00 GMT

This sort of philosophy is something that 24/7 Local electrician has encountered on a regular basis since starting up our business in 2008, and working for years within the industry prior to that. We know that staying warm is usually the overriding thought of most people during this time frame. However, there’s a definite value for those consumers when it comes time to decide whether or not to install ceiling fans.

A Change Might Be in Order

Then again, perhaps someone already has already made the decision to install a ceiling fan and is looking to have it replaced before the heat hovers again near the triple-digit mark. This is a decision that can circumvent any potential bumps along the road when it comes to an aging fan that may conk out before the end of summer.

With everyone’s busy life often preventing them from paying close attention to such seemingly mundane items as the age of a ceiling fan, it’s easy to avoid addressing this issue during the winter months. After all, the fan isn’t in use as much, so the level of concern drops.

The Choices Are Many

For those who haven’t made that jump yet, one of the best reasons to install ceiling fans is that your available considerations aren’t limited to one or two models. The different sizes, styles and colors of all these different types, coupled with the varied lighting options we have available mean that you won’t be forced to settle for a standard issue product.

With respect to lighting, you might prefer the contemporary option or perhaps the transitional or traditional. In addition, our models can be operated by remote control, have their speed adjusted or lights dimmed or even spin in reverse.

Letting the Professionals Take Care of It

While the idea of a do-it-yourself project sounds good when it comes to saving money in this situation, many individuals either don’t have the time or might not be mechanically inclined enough to do the job right. In the latter case, that can lead to potential dangers with any ceiling fan installation.

That’s because ceiling fan wiring obviously involves electricity in allowing the fan to run. Someone not familiar with this can do severe harm to themselves or cause damage to the overall home, which, in the latter case, will require an expensive repair trip by an electrician.

All of that can be avoided by allowing our professionals to set things up. We’ve performed ceiling fan wiring countless times for an untold number of our satisfied customers. That experience and extensive training allows us to make sure that the wiring is set up safely in order to keep things cool once the calendar reaches the summer months.

The dangers of electricity are something we also address in the area of either upgrading or replacing electrical panels. Upgrading panels is related to homes that are looking for the state-of-the-art model. In contrast, replacing is for those homes that are more than 35 years old and likely still have a breaker box, a volatile instrument that could be dangerous.

The People to Contact

Ceiling fan installation isn’t usually for the faint of heart and the idea of doing your own ceiling fan wiring could be risky when it comes to your health. Therefore, it makes sense to put your faith in the staff at 24/7 Local electrician.

With more than two decades of experience in dealing with the different concerns our customers have when making the decision whether or not to install ceiling fans, we know the ins and outs related to this area. Therefore, there’s no better time than right now to contact us for information on the installation or replacement of your ceiling fan.

How to Upgrade Your Yard With Landscape Lighting

Mon, 02 Nov 2015 23:08:00 GMT

The best exterior home improvements offer affordable options and real benefits with plenty of room for creative design. Professional outdoor landscape lighting across Mansfield and throughout the Metroplex brings bright ideas to the table that bathe your house in a brand new glow. With the help of an experienced master electrician and a little advanced planning, it’s easy and exciting to upgrade your yard with the latest in beautiful landscape lighting.

Decide Where You Want to Shine

Every great project begins with a plan, so make a few sketches, and decide where you want to shine a light on your outdoor living. If the grill out back commands center stage on weekends, you need more than just a porch light. Imagine enjoying evening walks along softly lit pathways through your garden. A home’s architectural style takes on special good looks at night with the right illumination. Focus on areas outside the house that deserve well-lit accents, and don’t overlook practical ideas around entrances, stairways and gates. There’s no limit to the designs and electrical services in Arlington TX that homeowners can apply to bright landscape upgrades with the help of a professional who specializes in outdoor lighting installations.

Choose Fixtures That Fit Your Plans

A master electrician is your best resource for choosing fixtures that fit your plans. He works closely with you to make sure that you enjoy the type of outdoor landscape lighting every Burleson home needs to look its best. He helps avoid mistakes that result in harsh glares against exterior walls by arranging spotlights that cast a soft glow on architectural lines. His expertise brings decks out of the shadows with lanterns and sconces that keep areas warm and inviting, and his path light installations define borders and guide guests down sidewalks. Your choices in outdoor lighting range from bullets and canisters to poles and wall fixtures, so rely on an experienced professional to help you choose the best lights for different areas around the house.

Double Down on the Benefits

Any upgrade to a home’s exterior boosts important curb appeal and property value. However, outdoor landscape lighting for Mansfield homes across the Metroplex also adds an extra layer of nighttime security. Well-planned installations illuminate back and front yards as well as driveways, side entrances and fence gates. You’re safer from the garage to the front door in a well-lit environment that always glows with a warm welcome at the end of the day. Sidewalks and deck stairs are easier to navigate in the dark when your steps are guided by built-in lighting. As you make plans for brightening up the landscape, check with your property insurance carrier, and ask about rate discounts based on outdoor security lighting.

Work With Professional Advantages

Installing a new front porch fixture might be a DIY job, but landscape lighting is a specialty requiring the services of a licensed electrician. He understands code compliance, offers a range of options and knows how to balance aesthetics with function. You want the kind of beautiful outdoor landscape lighting that Burleson homeowners really enjoy, but your electrician also integrates extra security and ease of use into exterior lighting. Motion sensors and auto-timers add self-activating muscle to outdoor systems while remote-control apps put it all at your fingertips on smartphones, tablets and laptops. When you work with a full-service master electrician, you enjoy professional advantages that just aren’t available on shelves at the home improvement center.

When you’re ready to light up the night outside and illuminate the best all around the house, we’re always happy to help. For more than 20 years, 24/7 Local electrician in Arlington TX has proudly designed and installed residential and commercial landscape lighting, and we take care of all types of outdoor projects across the Metroplex. Our estimates are always free, so just give us a call at (833) 220-2525 , or contact us through our online quote form. We look forward to shining a bright, new light on your best outdoor ideas.

How to Choose a Reliable Electrician in Arlington, TX

Thu, 08 Oct 2015 23:36:00 GMT

Ask Around Before You Call

Solid reputations aren’t established by accident. A successful Arlington TX electrician works hard building good relationships with his customers, and many of those satisfied clients are your friends and family. Ask them for recommendations, and also ask why a favorite contractor stands out from the competition. He might offer lighting design, new-customer discounts or 24/7 response to emergencies. Look through a potential company’s digital front window by visiting its website for an overview of available services. Online reviews are helpful, but rely on the word of people who you know and trust.

Expect a Professional Attitude

It’s a good idea to meet a prospective electrician before he starts a project. This gives you an opportunity to take stock of his professionalism. A reputable electrical contractor doesn’t wear a suit and tie on the job, but he does dress neatly in the company’s uniform and is always courteous and forthcoming. An electrician in Texas must pass rigorous testing to earn his license, and he’s required to carry liability insurance. He should be willing to show you his credentials, so take a good look, and make sure that everything is up to date. Feel free to ask if he has any additional information or references that can help you make a final hiring decision.

Know What to Look For

Do you need someone reliable for work around the house? Do you want an electrician who can handle big job sites? Not all electrical contractors in Arlington take care of both residential electrical and commercial electrical projects, so talk to a prospective electrician about his specialties. Your best candidate can upgrade the old electrical panel at home and install security lighting around a corporate campus. A full-service electrician troubleshoots existing problems, repairs and replaces old fixtures and runs new wiring. His ongoing technical training keeps him up to date on industry innovations that improve safety and save energy at both your home and business.

Insist on Upfront, Honest Pricing

Unless the job has to be performed under emergency circumstances, you should always receive a written estimate upfront that includes a cost breakdown. When you ask for a bid on a large project, expect a listing of all fittings and fixtures as well as labor costs and a timetable for job completion. Smaller projects don’t require the same detailed pricing, but you should understand exactly what needs to be done, how long it will take and what the final cost will come to. Keep an eye out for fees that don’t cover materials or labor. If an electrician tacks on charges that you don’t understand, insist on clear, honest explanations.

Here at 24/7 Local electrician , we’re always happy to answer your questions. We handle residential and commercial repairs and replacements, and we take care of electrical panel upgrades too. As a Christian-based, family-owned business, we extend a 10 percent discount to all new customers. You never have to worry about hidden fees or dispatch charges even for our same-day emergency services. When you want the very best Arlington TX electricians on the job, we invite you to contact us today or call (833) 220-2525 .

The post How to Choose a Reliable Electrician in Arlington, TX appeared first on J&B Electrical Services .

How Do I Know When My Breaker Box Is Full?

Mon, 20 Jul 2015 19:03:00 GMT

Take a Look Inside

If all the slots in your fuse box contain breakers, you assume it’s full. However, take a look at the diagram inside the door. It indicates how many circuits a breaker box can handle. If you see a 20/40 notation, that means your box has 20 spaces for breakers and the capacity to operate with 40 circuits. It’s not uncommon for builders to fill all the slots with single breakers, but the door drawing maps out spaces that can accept tandem breakers. If your panel doesn’t have a layout diagram, a licensed residential electrician can determine its capacity.

Double Down With Tandems

A tandem breaker takes up the same space as a single on the panel board, but it allows for the installation of two circuits in one slot. Often, the solution to a full breaker panel is as simple as replacing singles with tandems, but it’s important to know if your box meets Circuit Total Limitation standards. CTL certification became a part of the National Electric Code in 1965. If your electrical panel was installed before 1965, you’ll need a professional electrician to confirm its integrity and take care of any breaker box repair before installing tandems.

Don’t Do It Yourself

As handy as you are with home repairs, it’s never a good idea to work on the electrical panel. A licensed residential electrician knows his way around all kinds of electrical panel upgrades , and that expertise ensures your home’s safety. He takes care of special tandem requirements in older panels with industry-proven installation techniques. Very few homeowners understand proper breaker placement in a bus bar or the danger of two circuits sharing the same neutral. Improper breaker installation creates a fire hazard, and DIY work can void equipment warranties.

While tandem breakers are more expensive than their single cousins, they do a great job of safely increasing the load capacity in your fuse box. Electrical panel upgrades cost far less than replacements, and our master electricians are always happy to help you decide on the best options for your home. Just give 24/7 Local electrician a call at (833) 220-2525 or contact us , and we’ll put more than 20 years of experience to work on your breaker box.

What Kind of Panel Do You Have In Your Home?

Tue, 28 Apr 2015 21:46:00 GMT

Click Here to watch the story.

If you would like us to come check your panel or if you notice your panel says Federal Pacific please give us a call at (833) 220-2525 to schedule a technician to come to your home.