Category Archives: Low energy costs

Electrical Upgrades for Home Renovations: Adding Value and Safety

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Home renovations are an exciting venture, offering the opportunity to enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your living space. While the focus often revolves around new paint colors, flooring, and furnishings, it’s crucial not to overlook the significance of electrical upgrades during the renovation process. Investing in electrical enhancements not only adds value to your property but also plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of your home.

Exterior Home Lighting from professional electricians

Enhancing Safety Standards

One of the primary reasons to prioritize electrical upgrades during home renovations is to meet or exceed current safety standards. Older homes might have outdated electrical systems that pose potential hazards, such as faulty wiring or insufficient circuit capacity. By upgrading electrical components, homeowners can minimize the risk of electrical fires and ensure the safety of their families.

Common Safety-Focused Electrical Upgrades

  • Upgrading Electrical Panels: Older homes often have outdated electrical panels that may not support the increased demand for power in modern households. Upgrading to a higher-capacity panel ensures a safer and more reliable electrical system.
  • Updating Wiring Systems: Rewiring key areas of the house, especially in older homes, can prevent electrical issues and improve the overall safety of the property.
  • Installing GFCI Outlets: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are crucial in areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms. They provide an extra layer of protection against electric shock and are a recommended upgrade during renovations.

Meeting Modern Electrical Demands

Homeowners today have significantly different electrical needs than those of previous generations. The increased reliance on electronic devices, smart home technologies, and energy-efficient appliances requires a more robust and adaptable electrical system. Upgrading your home’s electrical infrastructure ensures that it can handle the demands of contemporary living.

Key upgrades to meet modern electrical demands:

  • Adding Additional Outlets: In the age of technology, having an abundance of electrical outlets is essential. Consider adding more outlets in strategic locations to accommodate the various devices used daily.
  • Smart Home Integration: Renovations offer an ideal time to incorporate smart home technologies. Upgrading your electrical system to support these features adds convenience, security, and energy efficiency to your home.
  • Energy-Efficient Lighting Solutions: Switching to LED lighting not only reduces energy consumption but also enhances the overall ambiance of your renovated spaces. It’s a cost-effective and eco-friendly upgrade that adds value to your home.

Increasing Property Value

Buyers in today’s real estate market are often looking for turnkey homes with modern amenities. Electrical upgrades contribute significantly to a home’s overall appeal and can make a considerable difference in its market value. Prospective buyers are more likely to be attracted to a property that has a well-maintained and updated electrical system, as it eliminates potential concerns and future expenses.

Investing in electrical upgrades during renovations can include:

  • Upgrading Switches and Dimmers: Modern, aesthetically pleasing switches and dimmers can enhance the overall look and feel of a room, adding a touch of sophistication.
  • Installing Energy-Efficient Appliances: While not directly related to the electrical system, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and can positively impact your home’s value.

Electrical upgrades are a crucial component of any home renovation project, offering both immediate benefits in terms of safety and functionality and long-term advantages in terms of property value. Whether you’re planning a complete overhaul or a minor facelift, consulting with a professional electrician, such as Always On Electric, can help you make informed decisions about the most effective upgrades for your home. By prioritizing electrical enhancements, you’re not only adding value to your property but also ensuring a safe and efficient living environment for years to come.

Contact Always On Electric at (970) 309-2616 today or visit us online for more information!

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.

Energy Efficiency: Simple Steps to Reduce Your Electricity Consumption

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In today’s world, where energy demands are soaring and concerns about climate change are growing, adopting energy-efficient practices is crucial. By reducing your electricity consumption, not only can you contribute to a more sustainable future, but you can also save money on your utility bills.

Exterior Lighting

Upgrade to LED Lighting

One of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce electricity consumption is by switching to LED lighting. LED bulbs use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and have a longer lifespan. By replacing your old bulbs with LED equivalents, you can achieve substantial energy savings while enjoying the same quality and brightness of light.

Unplug Electronics and Appliances

Even when electronics and appliances are turned off, they can still consume standby power. This is known as “vampire power” or “phantom load.” To eliminate this unnecessary electricity usage, unplug devices when not in use or use power strips with on/off switches. By cutting off the power supply, you can prevent standby power consumption and save energy.

Optimize HVAC System

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are major energy consumers. To improve energy efficiency, consider the following steps:

  • Regularly clean and replace air filters to ensure proper airflow and efficiency.
  • Use a programmable thermostat to regulate temperature settings based on occupancy patterns.
  • Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and ducts to prevent heat loss or gain.
  • Maintain regular HVAC system inspections to identify and fix any inefficiencies.

Maximize Natural Lighting and Ventilation

Utilizing natural lighting and ventilation can reduce the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning. Open curtains and blinds during the day to allow natural light to illuminate your space. Additionally, consider installing skylights or light tubes in areas with limited access to windows. For ventilation, use ceiling fans or strategically placed fans to circulate air and keep rooms cool.

Efficient Appliance Use

Appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers are essential but can consume a significant amount of electricity. Follow these tips to optimize their energy use:

  • Set your refrigerator’s temperature to the manufacturer’s recommended level and keep the coils clean.
  • Wash full loads of laundry and use cold water whenever possible.
  • Air dry dishes instead of using the dishwasher’s drying cycle.
  • Use energy-saving modes or timers on appliances, such as TVs and computers, to minimize their power consumption.

Insulate and Seal Your Home

Proper insulation and sealing can greatly improve energy efficiency by preventing heat transfer. Insulate your home’s walls, attic, and floors to reduce heating and cooling needs. Seal gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and electrical outlets to minimize air leakage. By enhancing insulation and sealing, you can maintain a comfortable indoor environment while minimizing energy waste.

If you’re looking for any electrical work, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Contact Always On Electric, Inc. at (970) 309-2616 today or visit us online for more information!

How an Agricultural Electrician Can Help Your Farm This Coming Spring

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Agricultural ElectricianIf you own a farm, it’s not a bad idea at all for you to be on a first-name basis with an agricultural electrician. This type of electrician can take on all kinds of electrical projects for you to keep your farm safe and help it operate more efficiently. Check out some of the top ways in which an agricultural electrician can help you below.

Keep Your Farm Safer and More Secure

The safety and security of your farm should be one of your top priorities. An agricultural electrician can help you in this department by helping you install the proper lighting on your property. They can also lend a hand when it comes to installing things like alarm systems and electric wire fences.

Protect and Preserve the Animals on Your Farm

Do you have animals on your farm? Protecting and preserving them will be another thing that you’ll need to worry about at almost all times. An agricultural electrician can help you in this department by installing lighting that will allow your livestock to move around. Lighting can also be installed to keep your livestock warm during the colder times of year.

Keep Your Farming Equipment Working Properly

There’s a good chance that you have quite a bit of farming equipment and systems on your farm that call for the use of electricity. If, for example, you have an irrigation system, it’s not going to run without electricity. An agricultural electrician can make sure all your various equipment works at all times. They can also run power to different parts of your farm as necessary so that you can add new equipment to your property.

Do you need to obtain the services of an agricultural electrician? Let Always on Electric provide you with the agricultural electrical services that you need. Call us at 970-309-2616 today to schedule an appointment with an electrician on your farm.

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.

4 Ways to Save on Your Electric Bills This Summer

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Summer is right around the corner, and as the heat rises, so can the cost of bills. Many people enjoy the outdoors during the summer, but for some, the only way to beat the heat is to stay inside, out of the sun. Here are some ways to ensure you can have a cool, relaxing summer, while also saving money.

Woman cooling down in home from heat of summer

1 – Swap the AC for Some Fans

It’s tempting to crank the air conditioning at the first sign of summer- but holding off and using some fans provides relief from the heat, and relief on your wallet. A box fan in a window can blow cool air in at night, or, if you prefer less wires, consider getting some ceiling fans installed to get a nice breeze throughout your home.

2 – Upgrade to Energy Efficient Appliances

It may be time to look at some of your most used appliances and see if they could be the culprit of a high bill. Is your stove Energy Star Certified? What about your AC unit? Making the switch to Energy Star Certified appliances ensures you have the most energy efficient appliance- which allows you to rest easy knowing that you’re saving money, even when using them.

3 – Invest in Light Blocking Curtains

While long hours of sunlight are a bonus of the summer, it also adds more hours of heat to your home, particularly if coming from southern and western facing windows. There are many curtains that not only block bright light, but keep rooms cool as they block heat. Consider installing these curtains and keeping them shut throughout the day- even if you keep some curtains open, it will still make a dramatic difference in the overall temperature of your house!

4 – Get an Evaluation

Above all else, safety is the most important thing when considering any upgrades or electrical changes. Always consult with professionals to ensure you’re maximizing your savings this summer. At Always On Electric, we provide evaluations, as well as assistant in repairs, or do total installations. Let us help you get ready for a relaxing summer, today! Give us a call at (970) 309-2616 for a free estimate!

 

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.

Prepare for Cooler Weather with New Electrical Equipment

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Fall is here, which makes this a good time to start thinking about winter electrical installations. Each season has its own electrical demands, like air conditioning in summer. As fall continues, it is a good time to consider any upcoming electrical projects or needs before the weather turns cold.

Frozen PipeCommercial

Heat tape systems can be used for several applications, including freeze protection for pipes and tanks, maintaining hot water temperature, de-icing and snow melting. Our experienced electricians can install a new heat tape system for your commercial property that will meet your needs and keep plumbing fixtures free of freezing problems.

Residential

Is it time for a new boiler or hot tub at your home? The skilled electricians at Always On Electric can safely complete the power installation for your new hot tub, boiler or steamer.

Tired of the power going out during winter storms? Always On Electric has you covered here, too, with professional back-up generator solutions. Don’t take a chance on your safety and comfort this winter!

Agricultural

The agricultural industry works year-round, with no break for bad weather. Winter brings unique challenges for farmers and ranchers because of water troughs or buckets icing over whenever temperatures fall below freezing. Trough heaters are the solution to the common wintertime chore of breaking up ice so that animals can drink.

Industrial

Severe winter cold can shut down an entire truck fleet, but using engine block heaters can help ensure your trucks will start in the morning after a long, cold night. Of course, each heater requires a fair amount of electrical power, and powering multiple truck heaters will probably require some new wiring. Our electricians can help you safely add the connections you need to power your truck heaters this winter.

Always On Electric provides a full range of electrical services for clients throughout western Colorado. Contact us today at 970-309-2616 to prepare for fall with new electrical equipment and wiring installations.