Chad – Turn It On Electric

Residential

Can Heat Cause the Power to Go Out?

31Jul2023

There are several reasons why a home or community may have a power outage. Summertime power demand is higher in Arizona, and that’s one reason why heat can cause the power to go out. In the Phoenix area, 99% of the power is generated from six sources:

Natural gas
Nuclear power
Coal
Solar
Hydroelectric
Wind

…and Arizona’s Palo Verde nuclear station is the largest net generator of electricity. Still, that’s a limited number of sources powering over a million homes in Greater Phoenix. Power lines deliver energy, but they’re just that: lines; wires. Heat adds to their stress.

Some of the reasons why heat causes the power to go out are:

Electrical power lines become overloaded. Heavier usage from higher temperatures can cause the power lines themselves to heat up and then expand or sag. If they droop into trees or other obstacles, it trips the circuit.
Heat lightning strikes can cause a power outage. But “heat lightning” isn’t caused by heat. It’s lightning that occurs about 100 miles away. You can see the lightning but don’t hear thunder because it’s so far. “Heat lightning” is safe (and for many, fun) to watch, but when you hear thunder, get indoors.
Sustained demand over longer periods of time may not permit transformers to properly cool. They can overheat and damage other equipment.
Electrical equipment overloads occur when temperatures soar because more people stay indoors.
Underground lines expand because of the heat. The insulation becomes stressed and trips circuitry, causing a power outage.

Based on the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) 2023 summer forecast, Arizona may see higher-than-usual temperatures causing grid fails and blackouts this summer. In fact, two-thirds of the USA are at elevated risk of blackouts due to widespread heat events and the resulting increase in peak demand.

Ways to Manage Power Outages

Power outage preparedness can include having extra bottled water on-hand as well as a hand-operated can opener and emergency supplies. A power outage in South-Central Arizona is inconvenient and can be uncomfortable. But if you have infants, elderly, or health-challenged loved ones, a power outage can be dangerous.

If someone in your home depends on electric-powered, life-sustaining equipment or if the heat itself is life-threatening, don’t delay seeking a safer, more comfortable place. (Now would be a good time to invest in a whole-house emergency backup generator for emergency protection.)

Here are some tips to help with other power outage concerns:

Electronics – To reduce the risk of data loss, back up your files. During storms and power outages, unplug electronics. You can install individual surge protector power strips but consider whole-house surge protection.
Food – A full refrigerator and freezer can safely store food longer than if half-empty. An unopened, full freezer can preserve provisions for as long as 2 days, but if it’s half-full, only one day. An unopened fridge can go about 4 hours without power.
Indoors – Don’t let the outside in. Open and shut doors quickly and keep windows closed. Block sunlight by shutting curtains and lowering blinds.
Personal comfort – Use cold tap water for a shower or bath, then air dry yourself and your hair.

Another way to reduce the risks of power outages is to do your part in reducing energy consumption. Avoid preheating your oven when cooking by simply adding a few minutes to your baking time. And this summer, consider adjusting your thermostat up a few notches during the day. You can save almost 3% by raising the thermostat one degree.

You can also reduce energy consumption by lowering your water heater temperature. Each 10-degree reduction can save 3%-5% in water-heating energy costs.

Contact TIO Electric of Greater Phoenix

Safety should be without compromise. If you have questions about power outages and how backup generators can keep your home and family safe and comfortable, contact Turn It On Electric.

Electrical Wiring, Residential, Safety

Am I Using Too Many Extension Cords?

31Jul2023

How many is too many extension cords? This question has 2 scenarios and two answers:

1. If your extension cord won’t reach, and you stretch its length by attaching another extension cord, that’s too many. Extending the length this way can result in overloading and overheating; then you have a fire risk. Buy one cord that is the correct length rather than daisy-chaining.

2. How many extension cords per room is too many? Extension cords are supposed to be a temporary solution, never a permanent one. Any room using even one extension cord as a long-term power source is already using too many extension cords. Extension cords aren’t designed to be used for more than 90 days.

Even though outlets have two plug-ins, never plug two temporary extension cords into one outlet. The power pull can be dangerous. Electrical resistance is higher with the addition of one extension cord. Connecting two extension cords or plugging two into one outlet results in heat generation that poses a fire risk.

Using Too Many Extension Cords Is Dangerous

OSHA regulations apply to workplaces and not necessarily homes. But their guidelines have set our standards for safety. Also, we’re spending much more time working in offices and managing small businesses at home.

Extension cords are terrific solutions to temporary power supply needs. Some of their recommendations for extension cord safety include:

Always choose cords with 3-prong plugs. Never remove the grounding plug to force a 3-prong extension cord into a 2-prong plug-in.
Cords should be approved for their intended use. For example, don’t use indoor cords outdoors, small (thin and flat) extension cords for large tools or appliances, etc. Every extension cord should have the right voltage rating and the amperage required to power the equipment/appliance.
Do not daisy-chain extension cords. Do not use more than one extension cord per outlet.
Don’t bend or coil cords.
Don’t place cords in areas that may get wet or damp.
Extension cords should not be extended through doorways, walls, or windows. They should not run under rugs or furniture.
For outside applications, use only outdoor cords.
If an extension cord feels warm to touch, unplug and stop using it.
If an extension cord has cuts or frayed wires, discard it.
Never attach extension cords to floors or surfaces using nails, tape, or staples.
Never use extension cords as a permanent power source.
Protect extension cords from foot traffic; protect pedestrians from tripping over extension cords.
Purchase cords that have been tested and approved by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Intertek (ETL), or Canadian Standards Association (CSA).
The cords’ sizes are numbers; gauges. The smaller the number, the greater the amount of electrical current. Even if two cords have the same gauge, the shorter one can manage more current than the longer one.
Unplug extension cords after use. To unplug the cord, pull on the plug, not the cord.

The Solution: Adding More Outlets

Power strips and surge protectors are great solutions for connecting multiple electronics to one outlet. Extension cords are used to connect the distance between one outlet and one electronic appliance or piece of equipment. Using too many extension cords is dangerous.

If you’re using numerous power strips and extension cords to power your home or office, the problem is you don’t have enough outlets to support your electrical requirements.

The ideal fix is for your local electrical contractor to install additional outlets. Your electric professional will use the right type of wiring and make sure your circuit breaker can handle your current load.

Turn It On Electric is a 5-star, licensed, electrical contractor. We specialize in Phoenix-area commercial and residential electrical remodeling. If you need electrical upgrades that would increase your property value and make your home safer, request a free quote.

We welcome your questions. Contact TIO Electric.

Residential

Do I Need a Standby Generator?

31Jul2023

Home appliance trends come and go. Small appliances like air fryers may soon follow rice-makers and bread machines down the path toward extinction. But there’s nothing small or temporary about the latest must-have home appliance. Everyone wants a standby generator.

Do you really need one?

Main Reason You Need a Home Standby Generator: Disasters

The 2021 cold front in Texas was just one of the recent disasters that caused homeowners to re-evaluate the worth of whole-house and portable standby generators. Without electricity and heat, water pipes froze, and people were stranded in their own homes. The death toll was uncertain and estimated to be between 200-700.

Also in Summer 2021, Michigan rains and flooding knocked power out for days, while heatwaves led to brownouts and rolling blackouts on the West Coast. Hurricanes continue to leave homes powerless. Wildfires threaten power grids.

“Standby generators are gaining a foothold in households,” says Interesting Engineering, and there are many reasons why. The uncertainty of weather disasters and our electrical power supply is the main reason more homeowners are investing in a standby generator.

In 1971, only one percent of U.S. homes had a microwave. You were either a pioneer-owner or waited until the 1980s, but soon, every home had a microwave. Many believe standby generators are taking that direction.

Portable vs. Standby Generators

Most of us have owned or used a portable generator. They’re great for tailgate parties, camping, and other activities that benefit from electricity.

Portable generators are noisy – as much as 90 decibels, which can damage your ears over even a short period of time. They are powered by gasoline. Handling and pouring gasoline into a small generator have their own risks, plus the carbon monoxide fumes are dangerous. You need to position yourself and your loved ones at a safe distance from the unit. A heavy-duty extension cord should run from the generator to whatever you need to power.

Standby generators are expensive enough to qualify as an investment. But like most investments, the return is worth it. It adds value to your property and the inconvenience and peace of mind are priceless.

A standby generator is permanently attached outside and connects to your home’s electrical system and a natural gas or propane line. An automatic transfer switch (ATS) detects a power interruption and starts the generator. When power is back, it shuts off the generator.

A professional electrician should be consulted before you buy. You’ll need at least 8,000 watts but your electrician can tell you if more wattage is required. Professional installation is also required. Standby generators can weigh more than 500 pounds and must be mounted on a dedicated strong, flat surface.

Top-Selling Home Generators

Most of us do online research to learn about products and brands. These top-selling generators are also top-rated.

The generators most U.S. households buy are:

Briggs and Stratton
Champion
Cummins
Generac
Kohler

Forbes rates these models as the best generators in 2023:

Generac Guardian Wi-Fi
Briggs & Stratton 12,000-watt
Champion 14kW aXis
Generac PowerPact
Generac Guardian 3-phase

Ask Yourself 9 Questions

To learn if you need a standby generator, answer these questions:

Do you depend on a sump pump?
Do you have a standalone freezer?
Do you have an electric/hybrid car?
Do you have well water?
Do you live in a high-risk-for-severe-weather area?
Do you live in an area that has wildfires?
Do you or a family member depend on electricity for a medical device/appliance?
Do you work from home?
Does your area suffer from grid failures?

If you answered yes to several of these questions or if you answered yes to question 7, a standby generator is a good idea.

Our professional electricians are knowledgeable about standby generators for homes and businesses, so don’t hesitate to seek additional information. Contact Turn It On Electric.

Air conditioning

Why Do My Lights Flicker When the AC Starts?

31Jul2023

You should be concerned if your lights flicker frequently. An occasional power surge because of your community’s increased electricity usage during peak demand is not uncommon. But if your lights flicker inconsistently or at specific times, like when your AC kicks on, it’s a warning sign.

4 Reasons Air Conditioner Start-Up Causes Your Lights To Flicker

Your Phoenix air conditioning system is getting a real workout this summer. It’s a fact that ACs pull a lot of power at start-up. When your cooling system starts, it temporarily drains the energy from other sources, including light fixtures.

Older homes in Maricopa County communities are already struggling with modern families’ higher electricity demands. Older wiring contributes to many electrical problems, including flickering lights. But greater use and a limited power supply means all homes can have electrical surges.

In one bizarre situation, a family’s lights flickered when their neighbor’s air conditioner turned on. They investigated and learned both older homes had insufficient, aging wiring and both were connected to the same transformer. Every time the neighbor’s AC kicked on, it caused a voltage drop next door.

Frequent light flickers can indicate your home or commercial property has a significant electrical problem. Here are 4 reasons why lights flicker when your AC starts:

Broken capacitor – The capacitor gives your compressor the surge of power that’s needed for HVAC startup. If your lights occasionally dim about 3%-5% when the AC starts, that’s not critical. But if they lose half their brightness, you may have a damaged capacitor. Air conditioning capacitors are high-voltage components and very dangerous; call your professional electrician asap.
Damaged, loose wires – Damaged and loose wires can cause a voltage drop when your AC turns on. Look for signs of discoloration/scorching or smoke coming from the outlet. Other signs of wiring problems are:
- Outlet warm to the touch or has a burning smell, buzzing noises
- Wire insulation frayed/crumbly
Inadequate wiring – Sometimes your wiring is secure and in great shape but the type of wiring your home has may not be strong enough to support AC electrical requirements. This might occur if the cooling and heating system was installed without a licensed electrician and/or the wrong type of wire was used. Heavy-duty wiring is needed for HVAC systems. If aluminum wiring was used in place of copper, that could also be the reason the lights flicker. Consider copper rewiring.
Overloaded circuit – HVAC systems need a dedicated circuit. Instead of dimming, if your lights turn completely off when the AC powers up, your circuit’s probably overloaded or double-tapped. There may be other large appliances pulling power or your older home’s wiring can’t handle modern AC electrical requirements. Overloaded circuits are dangerous and shouldn’t be ignored.

Choosing A Professional Electrician

Some electric services offer sales incentives to their service technicians. This can lead to recommendations for unnecessary purchases or pushes for a specific brand’s products. TIO Electric pros don’t receive commissions.

We have one agenda,and it’s all about you.Providing you with the industry-best electrical services you need is our priority. We care about our reputation for guaranteed satisfaction, but your family’s safety is even more important.

We don’t take shortcuts that might put your property at risk. You can trust us to leave our work area as clean as we found it. TIO Electric is licensed, bonded, and insured to protect your property and our electric professionals.

Contact TIO today if you have questions about your electrical system. You have choices, and we’ll work hard to make you glad you chose Turn It On Electric.

Residential, Safety

Protecting Your Family During Lightning Storms

28Jun2023

Lightning storms can be a powerful and awe-inspiring display of nature’s might. The crackling sound of thunder and the dazzling streaks of lightning can leave us feeling both amazed and humbled. However, it’s important to remember that these storms can also pose a significant threat to our safety, especially if we don’t take the necessary precautions. To ensure the well-being of your family during these electrifying events, here are five crucial lighting safety tips:

Stay Indoors
The safest place to be during a lightning storm is indoors. Seek shelter in a sturdy building, preferably one equipped with lightning rods and surge protectors. Avoid using electrical appliances, corded phones, or plumbing fixtures, as lightning can travel through these conduits. If you’re caught outside, seek shelter in a fully enclosed metal vehicle like a car or truck. Remember to keep the windows rolled up and avoid touching any metal surfaces inside the vehicle.

Avoid Open Areas
During a lightning storm, it’s crucial to stay away from open areas, including open fields, golf courses, and bodies of water. If you’re outdoors and can’t find shelter, seek refuge in a low-lying area, but be mindful of the potential for flash floods. Stay away from tall objects such as trees, light poles, and metal fences, which can attract lightning. Instead, find a low, crouched position with your feet close together to minimize contact with the ground.

Unplug Electronics
Lightning strikes can cause power surges that can damage electronic devices. To protect your appliances and avoid potential fires, unplug sensitive electronics such as computers, televisions, and game consoles during a storm. Invest in surge protectors for your important devices and consider installing a whole-house surge protection system, which can safeguard your home’s electrical system from lightning-related power surges. Once your devices are plugged into surge protectors, the risk of damage to your devices is greatly reduced.

Educate Your Family
Knowledge is power when it comes to lightning storms. Teach your family members about the dangers of lightning and the safety measures to take. Explain the importance of staying indoors during storms, avoiding water-related activities, and steering clear of conductive materials. Reinforce the idea of waiting at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder before venturing outside again, as lightning can strike even when the storm seems to have passed.

Be Prepared
Being prepared for a lightning storm can make all the difference when it comes to keeping your family safe. Consider creating an emergency kit that includes essentials such as a flashlight, extra batteries, a first aid kit, and a battery-powered weather radio. Discuss and practice an emergency plan with your family, designating a safe meeting spot and establishing a communication method during power outages. Stay informed about weather forecasts and warnings through reliable sources, such as the National Weather Service, to ensure you’re aware of any impending storms.

For more information on how lighting forms and other lighting science, visit weather.gov

Remember, when it comes to lightning, safety should always be your top priority. By following these top five ways to protect your family, you can minimize the risks associated with these electrifying events and ensure the well-being of your loved ones.

For more information on electrical safety and storm preparedness, contact Turn It On Electric. They provide valuable insights and professional electrical services to help you stay safe during lightning storms.

1 2 3 … 55 Next page

Chuck P

01:46 23 Jan 25

Friendly, communicative, and professional.High quality work.

Renee Delu

18:10 11 Jan 25

Mike you are the best!! God bless you for comming out saturday when I blew my fuse trying to vacumm and shout out to Josh who although not have sat office hours called me anyway after I left a voicemail. .Bob Best was here and gave me amazing information that NO OTHER electrician had. .!! I'm happy to say this is an amazing caring company...and I'm a customer for life!! Please recognize and reward Mike And Josh for them saving me on Saturday as my security system had no power and my smoke alarm had been beeping for hours. These men deserve kudos. .if you are looking fir honest and highly qualified electrical work. This is where to go. I'm thankful and grateful. Bob is now an instructor ..I'm happy to know future electricians are being schooled and trained by him. Thanks to you all

Wally Johns

01:31 11 Jan 25

Good work and very polite guys.

Rebecca RB

01:03 21 Oct 24

This company literally saved us! We had some electrical issues discovered that were rather alarming and created an issue with the garage door opener completely lost power as well as our outdoor dusk to dawn lighting and the interior garage lights. Mike the electrician came to the rescue! He listened to the issues in my non electrical language (haha) translated it and solved everything with confidence! Knowledgeable, Friendly, prompt, professional and efficient! Highly recommended! Will definitely call for future needs!

luci redmond

15:28 12 Oct 24

Great customer service & a job well done!

Samuel Heffner

17:04 14 Aug 24

I called TIO Electric because a friend referred them and they did not disappoint. I had an issue and it was rough identifying the source of the problem. Miguel and Conrad worked together to identify and solve the problem quickly. As a services based business it was extremely important to get the repair done quickly and the team stayed to ensure the job was done before they left. I expected to have to schedule another visit due to the complexity of the case, but they understood I needed to be back up and running as soon as possible and got the job done in just a few hours. They were very professional and personable and the cost was in line with what I expected.Update 8/14/24: TIO helped me again. This time with an issue I was having at my home. Marcus was very nice and knowledgable and was able to identify the problem and make the repair in quick time. I had a secondary issue I wasn't too worried about, but Marcus took care of that as well. These guys know what they're doing. Still highly recommend.They did a great job. I would definitely recommend them for projects big and small.

Caren Zellmer

12:46 03 Jul 24

Excellent service!! Marcus has been to our house a couple of times and completed the work doing an AMAZING job. He was very polite, professional and explained every process to us. His work was also completed in a timely manner. It is very rare to find anyone with great work ethic anymore! This company is very lucky to have him. We would definitely recommend and use Turn It On Electric again.

Bob

14:42 10 Jun 22

They were on time, clean, friendly, professional and did an amazing job. I would have to say that the price was fair considering the amount of work done. Highly recommend Turn It On Electrical!