Category Archives: Electrical Grounding

Upgrading Electrical Panels: When and Why

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In the fast-paced world we live in today, electricity is the lifeblood of our homes and businesses. From powering our appliances to keeping our offices running smoothly, a reliable electrical system is non-negotiable. However, like any other technology, electrical systems have a finite lifespan. That’s when upgrading your electrical panel becomes not just a luxury but a necessity.

Residential Electrician

The Heart of Your Electrical System

First, let’s understand the importance of the electrical panel. It’s essentially the heart of your electrical system, responsible for distributing power throughout your home or business. All the electricity that enters your building runs through this critical component, where it’s divided into circuits and sent to various outlets and appliances.

Signs It’s Time for an Upgrade

  1. Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips: If your circuit breakers trip frequently, it’s a clear indication that your electrical panel is struggling to handle the load. This can be due to increased power demands from modern appliances or an aging panel that can’t keep up. Always On Electric, Inc. can assess the situation and recommend a suitable upgrade.
  2. Fuse Panel: If your home or business still has a fuse panel, it’s a strong sign that you’re overdue for an upgrade. Fuse panels are outdated and less safe than modern circuit breaker panels, which provide better protection against electrical fires and overloads.
  3. Dimming Lights: Do your lights flicker or dim when you turn on appliances? This could be a sign of insufficient power supply, and an electrical panel upgrade might be necessary to ensure a stable and consistent flow of electricity.
  4. Outdated Wiring: If your building has outdated wiring, it’s crucial to upgrade both the wiring and the electrical panel. Old wiring can be a safety hazard and might not meet modern electrical standards.
  5. Home Renovations or Additions: Planning to renovate your home or expand your business? These are excellent opportunities to upgrade your electrical panel to accommodate the increased power needs of the new space.

Why Choose Always On Electric, Inc.?

Upgrading your electrical panel is not a DIY project. It requires specialized knowledge and expertise to ensure the safety and functionality of your electrical system. Always On Electric, Inc. is your trusted partner in this endeavor for several reasons:

  1. Experience: With years of experience in the industry, we’ve seen and handled it all. Our technicians are skilled in upgrading electrical panels efficiently and safely.
  2. Safety First: Safety is our top priority. We adhere to all safety standards and regulations to ensure your electrical system is not just upgraded but also made safer.
  3. Custom Solutions: We understand that every home and business is unique. We provide customized solutions tailored to your specific electrical needs.
  4. Energy Efficiency: Our upgrades are not just about increasing capacity; we also focus on energy efficiency to help you save on your electricity bills.
  5. Reliability: When we’re done, you can count on a reliable electrical system that will serve you well for years to come.

Contact Always On Electric, Inc. at (970) 309-2616 today or visit us online for more information on how we can help with your electrical services in your home or business.

 

Winter Electrical Safety: Preparing Your Colorado Home for the Cold

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The winter season descends upon Colorado and it’s essential to ensure that your home is not only cozy and warm but also safe from electrical hazards. The colder months can put added stress on your electrical system, making it crucial to take precautionary measures and perform maintenance tasks.

Residential Electrician

Inspect Outdoor Wiring and Fixtures

Before the cold sets in, check all outdoor wiring, lighting fixtures, and outlets. Make sure they are in good condition, securely attached, and free from damage. Any frayed wires or exposed connections should be addressed promptly to prevent accidents during winter weather.

Check Exterior Outlets

Outdoor electrical outlets should be in good working order. Ensure they have weatherproofed covers and are properly sealed to prevent moisture from entering. Consider installing GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets for additional safety.

Service Your Heating System

If you rely on electric heating systems, such as baseboard heaters or electric furnaces, have them professionally serviced before the winter season. Clean filters and vents to improve efficiency and reduce fire risks.

Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are critical during the winter months when heating systems are in use. Test CO detectors and replace batteries to ensure they are fully operational. Consider installing additional detectors if necessary.

Inspect Electrical Cords and Extension Cords

Examine all electrical cords for signs of wear, fraying, or damage. This includes cords for space heaters, holiday decorations, and any outdoor equipment. Replace damaged cords immediately to prevent electrical fires.

Electrical Panel Check

Have a licensed electrician inspect your electrical panel before winter to ensure it can handle the increased electrical load. Upgrading to a higher amperage panel may be necessary if you plan to use additional heating appliances.

Plan for Power Outages

Prepare for potential power outages by having a backup power source, such as a generator or uninterruptible power supply (UPS). This will ensure essential appliances and heating systems remain operational during blackouts.

Winter in Colorado can be beautiful, but it also presents unique challenges for your home’s electrical system. By following these safety precautions and performing necessary electrical maintenance tasks, you can enjoy a warm and safe winter season. Remember that safety should always be a priority, and when in doubt, consult a licensed electrician to address any electrical concerns or make necessary upgrades. A well-prepared home will keep you and your loved ones safe and comfortable during the coldest months of the year.

Contact Always On Electric, Inc. at (970) 309-2616 today or visit us online for more information on how to maintain your electrical systems at home during this winter season.

 

Common Electrical Problems in Colorado Homes and How to Solve Them

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Electrical issues are not uncommon in homes, and Colorado is no exception. From older houses in historic neighborhoods to modern constructions, various electrical problems can arise due to a variety of factors. Identifying and addressing these issues promptly is crucial to ensure the safety, efficiency, and functionality of your home’s electrical system.

Exterior Home Lighting from professional electricians

Flickering Lights

Flickering lights can be caused by loose or faulty light bulbs, poor connections, or inadequate wiring. Begin by checking and tightening the bulbs. If the issue persists, consult a licensed electrician to examine your wiring and connections. They can identify and resolve the root cause of the flickering.

Tripped Circuit Breakers

Frequent tripping of circuit breakers indicates an overloaded circuit. This commonly occurs when too many electrical devices are connected to a single circuit. To solve this, redistribute the load by unplugging some devices or having an electrician install additional circuits where needed.

Electrical Outlets Not Working

If an outlet isn’t supplying power, it might be a result of a tripped GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet or a faulty outlet itself. Press the “reset” button on the GFCI outlet, and if that doesn’t work, consult an electrician to inspect and repair the outlet.

Power Surges

Power surges, often caused by lightning strikes or electrical grid fluctuations, can damage sensitive electronics. Installing surge protectors at key points in your home’s electrical system can prevent these surges from causing harm.

High Energy Bills

Excessively high energy bills may be a sign of inefficient appliances or poor insulation. Consider upgrading to energy-efficient appliances and sealing any gaps or cracks in your home’s insulation to reduce energy consumption.

Overloaded Circuits

Plugging too many devices into a single outlet or circuit can overload it and pose a fire hazard. Spread out the use of electrical outlets and avoid daisy-chaining power strips to prevent overloading.

Faulty Wiring

Older homes, especially those in historic Colorado neighborhoods, might have outdated or deteriorating wiring. If you experience frequent electrical problems, such as tripped breakers or dimming lights, consult a licensed electrician to inspect and update your wiring if necessary.

Warm Switches or Outlets

If you notice switches or outlets becoming warm to the touch, it could indicate an underlying electrical problem. Warmth might be a sign of loose connections or faulty wiring. Contact a professional electrician to investigate and rectify the issue.

Dead Outlets

Outlets that don’t provide power may be the result of a tripped GFCI outlet or a wiring problem. Test and reset GFCI outlets first. If the problem persists, consult an electrician to diagnose and fix the wiring issue.

Light Bulbs Burning Out Quickly

If light bulbs frequently burn out faster than expected, it could be due to voltage fluctuations or poor-quality bulbs. Consider switching to LED bulbs and have an electrician check for voltage irregularities.

Staying vigilant and addressing common electrical problems promptly is essential for maintaining a safe and functional home in Colorado. While some issues can be resolved through simple troubleshooting, it’s advisable to consult a licensed electrician for more complex problems to ensure proper diagnosis and resolution. By taking proactive measures and seeking professional help when needed, you can enjoy a reliable and safe electrical system in your Colorado home.

Don’t hesitate to get help from a professional electrical contractor in Colorado. Contact Always On Electric at (970) 309-2616 today or visit us online to talk with us about the electrical services we can offer you.

 

Electrical Maintenance Checklist for Colorado Homeowners

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As a homeowner in Colorado, maintaining your electrical system is crucial for the safety, efficiency, and longevity of your home. Regular electrical maintenance can prevent potential hazards, reduce energy consumption, and extend the lifespan of your electrical components.

Tripped Circuit Breaker

Schedule Annual Electrical Inspections

Start your electrical maintenance routine by scheduling an annual inspection by a licensed electrician. A professional inspection will identify any potential issues, safety hazards, or outdated components that require attention. This proactive approach will ensure that your electrical system meets safety standards and local codes.

Check GFCI Outlets

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are essential in areas exposed to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces. Press the “test” and “reset” buttons on each GFCI outlet to ensure they are functioning correctly. If a GFCI outlet fails to reset or test properly, contact a licensed electrician for immediate repair or replacement.

Test Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Test and replace the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms regularly. These devices are critical for early detection of potential hazards and should be fully operational at all times.

Inspect Electrical Cords and Cables

Check all electrical cords and cables for signs of wear, damage, or fraying. Replace any damaged cords immediately to avoid electrical fires or shocks. Avoid using extension cords as a permanent solution; instead, have additional outlets installed if needed.

Examine Light Fixtures and Switches

Inspect light fixtures, switches, and dimmers for loose connections, discoloration, or flickering lights. Tighten loose screws and replace faulty switches or dimmers promptly to prevent electrical issues.

Test Circuit Breakers and Fuses

Test your circuit breakers by tripping them manually and resetting them. If you have a fuse box, make sure you have the correct amperage fuses installed for each circuit. Contact a licensed electrician if you experience frequent circuit breaker tripping or if fuses blow frequently.

Check Outdoor Lighting and Security Systems

Ensure that outdoor lighting, including landscape lighting and security systems, is functioning correctly. Clean light fixtures and replace burnt-out bulbs promptly to maintain adequate lighting around your property.

Inspect Surge Protectors

Examine surge protectors for any signs of damage or worn-out indicators. Surge protectors are vital for safeguarding sensitive electronic devices from power surges and should be replaced if compromised.

Contact Always On Electric at (970) 309-2616 today or visit us online for more information about how we can help with your electrical in your home in Colorado.

How to Prepare Your Colorado Home for a Power Outage

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Power outages can occur unexpectedly, leaving your Colorado home without electricity and disrupting daily life. Whether caused by severe weather, equipment failure, or scheduled maintenance, being prepared for a power outage can help you navigate through the situation more comfortably.

Licensed electrician

Assemble an Emergency Kit

Create an emergency kit that includes essential supplies such as flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, a first aid kit, non-perishable food, bottled water, and any necessary medications. Store the kit in a designated location that is easily accessible to all family members.

Invest in a Backup Power Source

Consider installing a backup power source, such as a generator or uninterruptible power supply (UPS). These devices can provide temporary electricity during outages, allowing you to power essential appliances and devices. Ensure your backup power source is properly installed, regularly maintained, and fueled or charged in advance.

Maintain Adequate Lighting

Place flashlights and battery-powered lanterns in easily accessible areas throughout your home. Test them regularly to ensure they work properly and keep extra batteries on hand. Avoid using candles, as they pose a fire hazard.

Safeguard Heating and Cooling

Prepare for extreme temperatures during a power outage. In cold weather, ensure you have alternative heating sources such as a fireplace, wood stove, or portable propane heater. Make sure to follow all safety precautions when using these heating sources. In hot weather, create cross-ventilation by opening windows and using battery-operated fans to maintain airflow.

Preserve Refrigerated and Frozen Food

Minimize the frequency of opening refrigerator and freezer doors to keep the temperature as cold as possible. During a power outage, a refrigerator will typically keep food cold for about four hours, while a full freezer will maintain its temperature for about 48 hours. Consider storing perishable items in coolers with ice packs if the outage is prolonged.

The best thing you can do to safeguard and protect yourself from power outages is to reach out to a professional electrician. Contact Always On Electric at (970) 309-2616 today or visit us online for more information!

5 Signs Your Colorado Home Needs Electrical Upgrades

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As a homeowner in Colorado, it’s important to ensure that your electrical system is in top-notch condition to maintain the safety, efficiency, and functionality of your home. Over time, electrical systems can become outdated or experience wear and tear, posing potential risks and inconveniences.

electrical outlet in home being re-wired by professional electricians

Frequent Circuit Breaker Tripping

If your circuit breakers trip frequently, it may indicate that your electrical system is overloaded. This could be due to outdated wiring or an insufficient electrical panel. Upgrading your electrical system will provide the necessary capacity to handle your electrical demands.

Flickering or Dimming Lights

If your lights flicker or dim unexpectedly, it may be a sign of faulty wiring, loose connections, or outdated fixtures. These issues can lead to electrical hazards or insufficient lighting. Upgrading your wiring and fixtures will ensure consistent and reliable illumination.

Outdated Electrical Panel

If your home still has an old fuse box or an inadequate electrical panel, it’s time for an upgrade. Modern electrical panels are equipped with advanced safety features and can handle increased electrical loads, ensuring better protection against electrical hazards.

Non-Grounded Outlets

Older homes often have ungrounded outlets, which can be dangerous, especially in areas where electrical devices require grounding. Upgrading to grounded outlets will enhance electrical safety and provide additional protection against electrical shocks.

Inconsistent Power Supply

If you experience frequent power surges or voltage fluctuations, it’s crucial to have your electrical system assessed. Inconsistent power supply can damage sensitive electronic devices and appliances. Upgrading your electrical system will provide stable and reliable power throughout your home.

Recognizing the signs that your Colorado home needs electrical upgrades is crucial for the safety, functionality, and convenience of your property. Whether it’s addressing outdated wiring, upgrading the electrical panel, or installing additional outlets, investing in electrical upgrades will enhance your home’s electrical system and provide peace of mind.

Contact Always On Electric, Inc. at (970) 309-2616 today or visit us online for more information on how we can help you with your electrical upgrades in your home.

 

Signs You Need a Residential Electrician

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Residential ElectricianDo you have electrical circuit breakers in your home that are tripping on you all the time? This could potentially indicate a big problem with your home’s electrical system. It’s important for you to call a residential electrician right away so that they can take a closer look at the issue.

There are also other signs that you need to touch base with an electrician sooner than later. Check them out below.

Flickering lights

If the lights in your home flicker every once in a blue moon, it might not be the end of the world. Nevertheless, if you notice that your lights are flickering or even turning off completely on an almost daily basis, you shouldn’t ignore it. This is more than likely a sign that you should have a residential electrician come to evaluate your electrical system.

Warm outlets or switches

Feel the outlets and switches in your home every now and then to see if they’re warm. If they are, there is a decent chance that you have some kind of electrical issue on your hands. If the problem starts to spiral out of control, it’s not uncommon for the wall surrounding an outlet or switch to get warm, too.

Old electrical wiring

The electrical wiring that you have in your home is not supposed to last for decades and decades on end. Most electrical wiring is only designed to last for about 25 years before it needs to be replaced. It’s a good idea to have a residential electrician inspect and possibly replace old electrical wiring before it causes issues for you.

The next time you notice one of these signs of trouble, let Always on Electric come out to your home and provide you with residential electrical services. Call us at 970-309-2616 today to set up an appointment.

Steps to Take if Your Circuit Breaker Trips

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Tripped Circuit Breaker If a circuit breaker in your electrical panel trips, it’s actually not the worst thing in the world. Your circuit breakers are designed to protect the electric circuits in your electrical panel from getting damaged. Nevertheless, there are some steps you should take if a circuit breaker in your home trips.

Check them out below:

Find the Electrical Panel

The first thing you’ll need to do after a circuit breaker trips is locate your home’s electrical panel, if you don’t know where it is. These panels can be located in a variety of places, but more often than not, they’ll be in your garage or basement.

Reset the Tripped Circuit Breaker

Resetting a circuit breaker that has tripped is easy to do. All you need to do is open up your electrical panel, find the electrical circuit that is facing a different direction than all the others, and flip it back on. This should restore power to the area of your home where it went out when the circuit breaker tripped.

Make Sure the Power Stays On

In some cases, a circuit breaker might trip again after you have flipped a circuit back on. This is the sign of a problem. You may have an overloaded circuit somewhere in your home. You may also have a short circuit. A ground fault could also be to blame. Whatever the case, it’s important to find the cause of the tripped circuit breaker.

Contact a Residential Electrician for Help

If you can’t find what’s causing your circuit breaker to trip, you should avoid flipping your electrical circuit back on and contact an electrician for help. Otherwise, you could do some real damage to your electrical circuits and potentially even start a fire in your home.

Always on Electric can help you with tripped circuit breakers and any other electrical issues you face in your home. Call us at 970-309-2616 today to schedule an appointment with an electrician.

Electrical Safety Tips for Kids

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Electrical Tips for Children If you have kids in the home, whether they’re always there because they’re yours or they’re just visiting, it’s a good idea to go over some electrical safety basics with them.

Electrical Safety Precautions to Share With Your Children

For instance, tell kids not to plug too many things into one outlet or overload an extension cord. As much as it seems like “no big deal” to do so, the truth is that having too many things plugged into one or two outlets can end up overwhelming the circuit. At worst a fire could result, and nobody wants that to happen.

Speaking of outlets, with kids around it makes sense to have parents or the adults-in-charge put safety caps on all unused electrical outlets. Not only does this help save energy by stopping cold drafts, but it also prevents babies and toddlers and others from sticking their fingers into the outlet area where they could get a bad shock or worse.

Teach kids not to yank cords from the wall. Instead, teach them to literally go up to the outlet and pull the cord out from it right there. If and when a cord is pulled from anywhere besides its head, damage can be done to the plug, the outlet and/or the appliance.

Another thing: cords need to be kept out of the way so people don’t trip over them. Furthermore, if a cord can be placed in such a way that a pet can’t easily get to it, that’s great– too many dogs and cats have chewed cords and gotten shocked– not good. With little kids around, too, it’s best to find ways to keep them away from cords whenever possible– they’re not toys to be played with.

Kids also need to be taught that water and electricity don’t mix. So, for instance, they have to be extra careful in the bathroom when using things like a hair dryer near the sink, toilet or bathtub.

Finally, with regards to electricity outdoors, kids should know not to play on or near electrical boxes/substations. They need to stay away from power lines. And if they fly a kite, which kids like to do, make sure they’re not flying the kite anywhere near power lines.

If you need help repairing the electrical lines in your home, contact the experts at Always on Electric, Inc. today.

When is it Time to Upgrade Your Electrical Wiring?

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Electrical Wiring Most people don’t think much about the electrical wiring in their home, unless or until something goes wrong. For instance, the big football game is coming up on TV and people are gathered at your house to see it. A couple minutes before the game starts the TV inexplicably turns off. Nothing seems to work to get it back on. Maybe it was a blown fuse? Maybe it was something else? Whatever it was, it’s frustratingly irritating!

Signs You Need to Upgrade Your Electrical Wiring

When is it time to upgrade your electrical wiring? For most people, if their house is over 40 years old, then it’s time. Things have changed a lot since the original electrical work was installed. Think about how much different our world is today– back then, they didn’t have the kind of devices and appliances we have now, like microwaves, desktop computers, and tablets. Furthermore, if you have several people living in a house trying to plug all their stuff in at once, you might have run out of outlets– so it’s time to expand the number of outlets in your home to properly accommodate the power needs of all the people who live there.

One thing that might scare you– and it should– is that faulty wiring is a leading cause of house fires. The older your house is, the more likely the wiring is outdated and/or unsafe… which could very well lead to a fire. You don’t want that. You want wiring that’s “up to code,” or, more importantly, up to the current code.

Hire a Professional Electrician

When’s the last time your wiring was professionally inspected? Most of you would say, “I have no idea.” Others might say, “When we first bought the house.” If it has been “some time” since it was checked, make it a priority this year to have a company like Always On Electric come take a look at what’s going on in your house with your electrical wires.

You’ll especially want to have your wiring checked if you’ve noticed fuses are blowing repeatedly, lights are flickering or dimming, you smell burning coming from a certain room or appliance, or– don’t laugh– you get a tingling sensation when you touch a certain appliance.

Your wiring should also be inspected if you’ve noticed particularly warm outlets or ones that have become discolored or spark when you plug things into them.

Call 970-309-2616 to connect with Always On Electric.