Categories Electrical Wiring, Electrician, Residential, Safety

Steps to Take After a Failed Home Electrical Inspection

electrical inspection

If you’ve recently undergone a home electrical inspection and were notified that your home was not up to code, there’s no need to panic. However, there are some crucial steps to take to ensure the safety of your home and loved ones, while at the same time addressing any issues to get your home back on track to meet all the required safety standards.

In this article, we’ll explain what steps to take after a failed electrical inspection so that everything goes smoothly from that point forward.

  1. Understand the Findings: The first step is to carefully review the inspection report and understand the specific areas that failed to meet the requirements. The report should provide a detailed explanation of the issues and recommendations for resolving them. If there are any terms or concepts you don’t understand, don’t hesitate to seek clarification from a licensed electrician or inspector.
  2. Hire a Qualified Electrician: To address the problems identified in the inspection, it’s crucial to hire a qualified electrician. Look for a reputable electrical contractor who is licensed, insured, and experienced in residential electrical work. They will have the expertise to accurately assess the issues and provide effective solutions. Of course, we at Turn It On Electric would be happy to assist with any of your electrical needs in a situation like this
  3. Prioritize Repairs: Once you have chosen an electrician, work with them to prioritize the repairs. Some issues may require immediate attention due to safety concerns, while others may be less urgent. Discuss your budget and timeline with the electrician to develop a plan that suits your needs. By addressing the most critical problems first, you can ensure the safety of your home while managing the costs effectively.
  4. Obtain Multiple Quotes: It’s always a good idea to obtain multiple quotes from different electricians before proceeding with the repairs. This will give you a better understanding of the costs involved and help you make an informed decision. Remember, the cheapest option may not always be the best, so consider the electrician’s reputation, experience, and customer reviews alongside the price. Take a few minutes to learn the most important questions when hiring an electrician.
  5. Schedule the Repairs: Once you have chosen an electrician and received a quote, schedule the repairs at a convenient time. Depending on the complexity of the issues, the repairs may take a few hours or several days to complete. Be prepared to make alternative arrangements during the repair process if necessary, such as temporarily relocating to another part of your home or staying with a family member or friend.
  6. Retest and Obtain Certification: After the repairs have been completed, request a reinspection to ensure that all the issues have been resolved. Once your home passes the reinspection, you will receive a certification stating that your electrical system meets the necessary safety standards. This certification is important, as it may be required for insurance purposes or when selling your home in the future.

As you navigate through the process of addressing the failed electrical inspection, it’s essential to remember that your safety and the safety of your family should always be the top priority. By promptly addressing any electrical issues and working with qualified professionals, you can ensure a safe and secure home environment.

Remember, electrical inspections are crucial for identifying potential hazards and maintaining the integrity of your electrical system. To further expand your knowledge about electricity and electrical safety, visit the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) website (link: https://www.esfi.org/). They offer a wealth of resources and information to help you stay informed and make informed decisions about your home’s electrical system.

In conclusion, a failed electrical inspection is not the end of the world. By understanding the findings, hiring a qualified electrician, prioritizing repairs, obtaining multiple quotes, scheduling the repairs, and retesting the system, you can successfully address the issues and ensure the safety of your home. Take action promptly, and soon your electrical system will be up to code. If you need help or advice along the way, feel free to contact TIO Electric

Categories Residential, Safety

Protecting Your Pets From Electrical Hazards

electrical hazards

Electrical hazards can pose serious risks to our furry friends at home. From chewed wires to exposed outlets, our pets are susceptible to potential electrical accidents. This is why it’s essential for pet owners to be proactive in safeguarding their beloved companions from these hazards.

Here are the top five ways to protect your pets:

Secure All Electrical Cords and Wires

Pets, especially puppies and kittens, are naturally curious and may be tempted to chew on electrical cords and wires. This behavior can lead to electrical shock, burns, or even fires. To prevent this, it is crucial to pet proof household cables and keep wires out of your pets’ reach. Consider using cord protectors, cable organizers, or covering cords with PVC tubing. Additionally, you can tape cords to baseboards or use cord concealers to keep them hidden and inaccessible to your pets.

Keep Electrical Outlets Covered

Uncovered electrical outlets can be enticing to pets, who may try to investigate or play with them. This can result in electrical shocks or burns. Invest in outlet covers or caps to block your pets’ access to outlets. These inexpensive and easy-to-install safety devices will prevent curious paws from exploring potentially dangerous electrical sockets.

According to Turn It On Electric, an experienced electrical services company, “Pet owners should be mindful of the electrical dangers lurking in their homes. Taking simple steps like covering outlets can significantly reduce the risk of electrical accidents.”

Provide Safe and Stable Electrical Appliances

Ensure that all electrical appliances in your home are safe and stable. Pets may inadvertently knock over appliances, causing them to fall or spill liquids onto electrical components. This can result in electrocution or fires. To prevent such accidents, make sure appliances are placed on stable surfaces and are out of your pets’ reach. Use cord shorteners or hide cords behind furniture to minimize the temptation for pets to chew on them.

Unplug Unused Electronics

When electronics are not in use, always remember to unplug them from electrical outlets. This prevents any accidental contact by your pets, reducing the risk of electrical accidents. Additionally, it conserves energy and reduces the likelihood of overheating or electrical fires. Get into the habit of unplugging electronics such as laptops, gaming consoles, and chargers when they are not being used.

Supervise Pets and Educate Children

One of the most effective ways to protect your pets from electrical hazards is to supervise them closely. Be aware of their behavior around electrical appliances and cords. Educate your family members, especially children, on the potential dangers of electrical hazards and injuries to pets. Teach them not to leave cords or appliances lying around and to report any damaged electrical equipment immediately.

Remember, prevention is the key to safeguarding your pets from electrical hazards. By implementing these top five ways, you can create a safer environment for your furry companions and provide them with a happy and secure living space.

For further information and assistance with electrical safety measures, consult professionals like Turn It On Electric. Their expertise can help ensure your home is properly wired and protected from potential pet safety hazards. Contact TIO Electric with any additional questions or concerns.

Categories Residential, Safety

How to Teach Your Kids Electrical Safety

Electrical Safety

Electrical safety is a crucial topic that every parent should be teaching their younger children. With the increasing use of technology and electronic devices in our daily lives, it’s important to educate kids about the potential dangers of electricity. By teaching good electrical safety habits from a young age, you can help protect your children from accidents and promote a safe environment.

Here are some valuable tips to keep in mind when teaching your kids about electricity:

  1. Start with the Basics: Begin by explaining what electricity is and how it works. Keep the explanation simple and age-appropriate, focusing on concepts that they can easily understand. You can use examples like light bulbs, batteries, and outlets to illustrate the flow of electricity. Encourage questions and engage in a discussion to ensure their understanding.
  2. Identify Electrical Hazards: Walk around your home with your kids and identify potential electrical hazards together. Point out exposed wires, overloaded outlets, and appliances near water sources. Teach them to recognize warning signs such as sparks, unusual sounds, or the smell of burning. Make sure they understand that these hazards should be reported to an adult immediately.
  3. Safe Handling of Electrical Devices: Teach your kids how to safely handle electrical devices. Start by explaining the importance of keeping their hands dry before touching any electronic equipment. Show them how to plug and unplug devices properly, grasping the plug and not pulling the cord. Emphasize the rule of never touching electrical devices with wet hands or when standing on wet surfaces.
  4. Responsible Device Usage: Educate your children about responsible device usage. Teach them to always follow manufacturer instructions and never use devices in ways they are not intended for. Stress the importance of not leaving devices unattended, especially when charging. Encourage them to turn off and unplug devices when not in use to save energy and reduce the risk of electrical accidents.
  5. Stay Away from Power Lines: Teach your children about the danger of power lines and the importance of staying away from them. Explain that power lines carry high-voltage electricity and should never be touched or climbed. Reinforce the message that they should never fly kites, climb trees, or play near power lines.
  6. Electrical Fire Safety: Teach your kids about electrical fire safety. Show them how to use fire extinguishers properly and how to call emergency services in case of a fire. Establish a fire escape plan and practice it regularly. Make sure they understand the importance of not overloading outlets and the necessity of using surge protectors to prevent electrical fires.

As Albert Einstein said, “Electricity is not something to be afraid of. It’s something to be respected.” To delve deeper into the wonders of electricity with children and learn more about its importance and impact on our lives, you can check out Electricity Explained. This site offers a comprehensive guide to electricity, answers questions kids might have, and provides fascinating information that kids will find interesting.

Remember, teaching safety is an ongoing process. As your kids grow, continue to reinforce these lessons and adapt them to different situations. By doing so, you are instilling lifelong habits that will help keep them safe throughout their entire lives.

By teaching your kids about electrical safety, you are empowering them with knowledge and skills that will serve them well throughout their lives. Remember to be a role model and practice good electrical safety habits yourself. Together, we can create a safe and secure environment for our children.

For more information and tips on staying safe around electrical devices, feel free to contact Turn It On Electric. We can provide additional resources and professional insights to ensure the safety of your home and avoid electrical injuries.

Categories Air conditioning

16 Best Ways to Reduce Summer Cooling Costs

summer cooling costs

If you thought 2022 was hot, get ready for 2023. You should increase summer heat health precautions for your loved ones. You’ll also want to reduce summer cooling costs.

The Phoenix high-temp record was set in 1990 at 122°, and Lake Havasu saw 128° in 1994. Predictions are this summer will see record-breaking heat in Arizona. Our summer heat records were already high enough, thank you.

This is nothing to ignore. Arizona Dept. of Health Services says high heat can lead to:

  • Cramps
  • Exhaustion
  • Stroke

During a heatwave, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, remain well-hydrated, and stay inside with suitable air conditioning. This will keep you and your family safe this summer. It will also lead to higher-than-anticipated energy bills in 2023.

Start Now To Reduce Summer Cooling Costs

Ceiling fans are a natural, effective way to circulate cool air in your home. They can reduce summer cooling costs, will add value to your quality of life, and are a solid investment. A professional ceiling fan installation is affordable and protects the manufacturer’s warranties.

Before it becomes dangerously hot, practice these energy-saving ways to lower your electric bill this summer:

  1. Air dry – It’s been a laundry trick used for decades to give clothes a more wrinkle-free appearance. It’s also a great way to reduce electricity.
  2. Air filters – If you change air filters more often, you’ll lessen the load on your air conditioner and enjoy cleaner air.
  3. Close doors – Closing doors creates natural, zonal cooling.
  4. Digital/mechanical timers – These little add-ons can reduce vampire electricity use without compromising comfort. Most things we’re too lazy to turn off or unplug at night qualify for a timer.
  5. Duct cleaning – If you can’t remember when, it’s probably time to clean your ducts. Your HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) system won’t work as hard and you may breathe easier.
  6. Fireplace chimneys – Seal the chimney for summer and put a nice dried flower arrangement in the fireplace.
  7. Insulation – A common misconception is insulation keeps your house warm in winter. It also keeps your cool air inside, where you need it. If you need a retrofit or new insulation, now’s the time.
  8. LEDs – These lightbulbs save energy consumption by design, but they also emit much less heat. Switching to LEDs naturally cools every room.
  9. Lower water temperature – Reduced water heater settings can save $36-$61/year.
  10. Ovens – This is the summer to reduce oven use and increase ovenless dinners, especially during peak energy usage hours.
  11. Seal cracks/leaks – Use silicon seal strips to seal drafty doors and windows. They are often priced best on Amazon.
  12. Smart thermostatSmart thermostats save money. If you have one, use it. To upgrade, ask your local electrician what’s best for your home.
  13. Sun-facing windows – You’ll generate a lot of heat from the sunshine. Consider blackout curtains or upgrading window blinds.
  14. Unblock vents – If you have furniture blocking cooling vents, consider rearranging them to allow for better air circulation.
  15. Vampire electronics – Unplug appliances and electronics when not in use. This good habit can reduce your energy bill every month.
  16. Window screens – Opening the windows in extreme heat isn’t a good idea. But your older window screens could be the source of air leaks. Replacing them offers a better seal.

Ask TIO Electric About AC Protection

Losing air conditioning on a high-heat day is much more than uncomfortable. It’s dangerous, especially for infants and elderly family members. Make sure your HVAC system is performing at maximum efficiency and consider a whole-house generator for consistent comfort during power outages and blackouts.

Let’s discuss options to reduce summer cooling costs while keeping your family comfortable and safe in 2023. Contact Turn It On Electric.

Categories Safety

Risks & Rewards of EV Charging Stations

EV charging stations

Can you own an electric vehicle without charging at home? The answer is yes, but… You’ll have what’s known as “range anxiety.” That’s common among EV owners; they worry about how far they’ll get on their battery charges. It is often recommended home EV charging stations should be reviewed with a local electrician before buying a car.

In some cases, new EV owners don’t plan ahead. When it’s time to install the 240-volt outlet, perhaps they learn their electrical box and/or service
need to be upgraded, or the distance from the box to the
charging location is excessive.
USNews

Home EV Chargers: 8 Reasons To Call Your Electrician

You can save money on some home projects when you DIY (do-it-yourself), but you never save time. Often do-overs and damages cost more than paying a professional to get the job done right quickly.

Home EV charging stations are never a DIY installation project. Here’s why:

  1. Before you self-install a home EV charging station, ask your tax professional if a DIY installation will be eligible for 2023’s thirty percent tax credit. It may disqualify the tax incentive.
  2. Code compliance matters. An EV charging station can increase your property value if it’s professionally installed. Otherwise, you may be in violation of local regulations.
  3. EV charging stations and some car components’ warranties can be voided without a professional EV charger installation. Licensed electricians guarantee workmanship and take responsibility for their mistakes.
  4. Future issues (including fire hazards) are substantially reduced when your charging station is professionally installed. DIY jobs often need repairs or replacements later.
  5. It’s not worth the safety risk. What you don’t know about electrical currents and sockets can hurt you.
  6. Location is important. The chargers are weatherproof and water-resistant. But it’s important to examine all possible charge points. An electrician will identify issues and inconveniences you might miss.
  7. Property damage may not be covered by your insurance if you DIY a charging station. If you torch the garage, it might be your responsibility to pay for the repairs.
  8. You need the correct unit and setup for your EV, property, and lifestyle. Your local electrician can work with you to determine exactly what you need.

Heed Public Charging Station Risks

As of April 2023, Arizona has 989 public charging stations, with 2,768 ports for charging. It’s worthwhile asking your employer about company charging station options for employees. The added convenience could offset the expense.

You need to know this before you buy: Not all EVs can use fast-charging stations. Plus, some Level 3 (fast-charging) public stations request a payment plan upfront and on-file. There are charging networks for that purpose. (Examples include Blink, ChargePoint, Electrify America, and EVgo.) The other thing to know is that frequent fast charging is harder on your car than overnight charging at home.

You can review the Arizona charging stations map to learn more.

Public Charging Station Risks

The amount of high voltage available at public EV charging stations is itself a hazard. Improper use of public charging stations can cause burns, electrocutions, and shocks. Charging a vehicle with a damaged battery can cause a fire.

Because these stations are located outdoors, dangers are increased by weather. Obviously working with electricity during a rainstorm increases your odds of injury, but because of their locations, public EV charging ports are high-risk for vandalism. If tampered with, the charger or its components could be a shock or fire hazard.

Safety precautions are in place and will continue to be upgraded at public charging stations. But nothing beats the safety and security of a home EV charging station installed by a trusted, licensed electrician.

A home charging station is a good investment. It will increase your home’s value and reduce your carbon footprint. Let’s discuss your options today. Contact TIO Electric.