Every home should be equipped with a break panel, these panels are just one big switch that is filled with smaller switches, called breakers. These switches help with a variety of things. You should really only need access to the breaker panel for these three tasks: to reset a circuit breaker after it trips to...
Category: Electricity 101
Electrical Tips to Keep the Holidays Merry
The holidays are a joyous time brimming with family gatherings, seasonal events, and glistening displays. But, unfortunately, it is the time of year for increased expenses since you need to purchase holiday gifts, plan holiday feasts, and deck the halls. Fortunately, you can implement some energy-efficient and electrical safety tips like contacting a residential electrician when decorating...
What is Electrical Grounding?
Electrical grounding, also known simply as grounding, refers to “intentionally creating a low-resistance path to the earth. When properly done, current from a short or from lightning follows this path, thus preventing the buildup of voltages that would otherwise result in electrical shock…” (“Grounding,” n.d.). Grounding systems for residential and commercial properties typically consist of...
3 Reasons to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel
As people purchase more electronics, possibly even adding a new appliance here and there, older electrical panels may not keep up with demand. That can create problems, such as breakers frequently tripping due to overloading the available circuits. Having a licensed electrician upgrade your electrical panel can solve this problem and prevent more substantial, perhaps even dangerous,...
Common Residential Wiring Problems
With temperatures in the 90s, Texans are relying on their air conditioners to help keep them cool and comfortable, so the last thing anyone wants to deal with is residential wiring problems. If your lights flicker each time the air conditioner or another major appliance kicks on, or you’re using too many surge protectors to power...
Power Your Outdoor Living Spaces
Imagine dining under the stars, having a backyard movie night, or unwinding next to the warmth of a outdoor fireplace. If these activities appeal to you, you may want to consider extending your living space outdoors. No shortage of interior features can be created outdoors, assuming a professional, certified electrician has completed the proper electrical...
Phantom Loads Revealed
The electricity consumed by common home gadgets and appliances despite being switched off is referred as phantom loads. The convenience popular products afford you comes with a price tag. According to a 2015 report by the Natural Resources Defenses Council (NRDC), plugged-in devices continually draw power, costing you $165 annually and increasing your carbon footprint....
Getting to Know Your Breaker Panel
Your breaker panel is just one big switch, filled with other smaller switches, called breakers. As a homeowner, you should only need to access the panel for these three tasks: to reset a circuit breaker after it trips to shut off power to the whole house if needed to turn off power to individual circuits...
Common Electrical Problems
Why do my lights flicker? This problem can be caused by several factors including plugging in an appliance that temporary draws more power causing the lights to flicker. Flickering lights are also often indicative of a defective or loose light bulb. If replacing or tightening the bulb doesn’t solve the problem, it is best to...
Are You Protected Against Power Surges?
Do you have expensive electronics such as big screen TVs, bluray players, and gaming consoles? Then you need a surge protector! Surge protectors, which aren’t necessarily the same as power strips, can keep all of your electronics and appliances safe from becoming useless due to a power surge. Dangerous Power Surges & Spikes Your home’s...