Categories Electrician, Residential

Working with a Residential Electrician in Tucson, AZ

Working with a Residential Electrician in Tucson

Every remodeling project or new-home build involves working with contractors and subcontractors. “The most common problems that homeowners experience on remodeling projects are cost overruns, missed deadlines, and results that don’t match their expectations,” says HomeAdvisor. “And almost every time, such problems stem from miscommunication.”

Hiring the best Tucson electrician is possible. When working with a residential electrician in Tucson, communication before and during the project is essential. Start by asking questions.

10 Questions to Ask A Residential Electrician in Tucson

Maybe this is the year you’re finally building your own home. Perhaps you’re planning a renovation project or an electrical lighting upgrade.

One way to avoid problems when working with an electrical contractor in Tucson is to ask questions:

  1. Do you have links to your online reviews?
  2. Do you have insurance that covers your workers, clients, and property damages? Are you able to provide proof of insurance?
  3. Have you completed a similar job?
  4. How long do you think my project will take?
  5. How long have you been in business?
  6. How much will you personally be involved in my project?
  7. What is your Arizona ROC license number?
  8. What is your physical business address?
  9. When could we meet in person to discuss my project?
  10. When will you be able to start?

Pay Attention to Red Flags

Here are several signs you’re dealing with the wrong residential electrician in Tucson:

  • The company doesn’t have a website
  • Does not have proof the company is licensed, insured, and bonded
  • Doesn’t have any professional or community affiliations
  • Doesn’t provide a lot of details about the project
  • The initial price quote is almost too good to be true
  • Is unable to explain the project stages to you using words you understand and dodges questions about safety
  • Says the job is too small to need a contract
  • Shows up late for meetings
  • Smells so strongly of cigarette smoke (or other kinds of smoke) that you don’t want the smell in your home
  • Unprofessional appearance; clothing, demeanor
  • Wants entire payment up-front
  • A work vehicle is dirty and in disrepair
  • You can’t find online testimonials or references
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Our new vans for Turn It On Electric electricians.

It’s Never Too Late to Demand Good Work

Unfortunately, several signs you’re dealing with an unreliable residential electrician in Tucson appear after-the-fact. Trust yourself and always trust your instincts. If you don’t think your job was finished correctly, make sure. If you have a gut feeling there’s something “not right” about the way the electrical contractor left the job, go with that feeling.

If an electrician walks away from your project too quickly or doesn’t solve your electrical problems, speak up. Get a second opinion if you need to, but don’t “let it go.” You could face additional expenses later or worse – risk your safety.

Other signs your electrical project wasn’t completed by a reputable Arizona electrician include:

  • Acted impatient when you had questions
  • Didn’t have the right tools
  • Had to go to the local hardware store for parts multiple times
  • Left exposed wires
  • Made a mess; didn’t clean work area afterward
  • Wore a t-shirt that had an offensive message

Your Residential Electrician in Tucson: Turn It On Electric

Sometimes a reputable company does a bad job. It happens. If you suspect your electrical project is incomplete or unsafe, contact Turn It On Electric. 

We want to be your residential electrician in Tucson. Tell us your ideas and let’s see if we can structure an exciting, affordable home project this year.

Author Chad
Categories Electric Bill

Are there ways to lower the electricity bill?

Are there ways to lower the electricity bill?

There are lots of ways to lower the electricity bill. If your home is “total electric,” simply cut off the HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) system. You may freeze in January or shrivel up like a prune and die in August, but you’ll lower your electric bill.

Here are ways to lower your electricity bill without discomfort or sacrifice.

28 Ways to Lower the Electricity Bill

Energy-reduction strategies, like “smart” devices for your home’s heating and cooling management, can be measurable ways to lower the electricity bill. Behavior changes can also lower your electric costs. Your household members must be taught to not let the hot water run and to turn off lights when not in use.

Here are some ways to lower your electric bill. Perhaps not all will work for you or your lifestyle, but some are very helpful:

  1. Buy ENERGY STAR® appliances
  2. Clean ductwork/vents*
  3. Clean refrigerator coils*
  4. Close curtains on hot days
  5. Don’t put hot foods in the fridge
  6. Get HVAC maintenance fall/spring*
  7. Hand-wash dishes
  8. Install:
    • attic ceiling fan*
    • ceiling fans*
    • dimmer switches*
    • low-flow showerheads
    • motion sensors
    • outdoor solar lighting*
    • programmable thermostat
    • storm doors
    • tankless water heater*
  9. Insulate electrical outlets*
  10. Insulate your water heater*
  11. Keep dryer lint trap clean
  12. Keep fridge/freezer full
  13. Line-dry laundry
  14. Lower your water heater temperature
  15. Microwave more (ovens use more electricity)
  16. Only do full laundry loads
  17. Plant shade trees
  18. Reduce “phantom” energy (75% of energy wasted on plugged-in/not-in-use electronics)
  19. Reduce sleep temperature (use more blankets)
  20. Re-insulate your home*
  21. Replace HVAC filters
  22. Request an energy audit
  23. Turn off dishwasher “heat dry” setting
  24. Turn off lights when not in-use
  25. Use “smart strip” surge protectors for electronics/appliances
  26. Use cold water for laundry-washing
  27. Use weather-stripping
  28. Utilize off-peak hours

Convert Inside, Outside Lighting

You can save $600/year by simply switching from incandescent bulbs to LED (light-emitting diodes). Incandescent bulbs need replacement several times a year and LED bulbs last for years. They also cost less per-month to use.

If you have outdoor lighting that is left on for long periods of time, using CFLs (compact fluorescent lamps) or LEDs in outside fixtures will save a lot of energy (and money), according to Energy.gov. Bare spiral CFLs can often be used in enclosed fixtures that protect them from the weather. CFLs and LEDs are also available as floodlights. 

Let’s Talk Lighting

Turn It On Electric professionals are licensed, bonded, and insured. But maybe, more importantly, we have experience.

Continuing education helps us utilize new technology to provide energy-saving lighting options to our commercial and residential customers. We believe knowledge is power, and the “best” customers are the ones that make informed decisions.

So, let’s discuss what lighting choices would enhance your property. We can upgrade outside safety lighting and/or install motion-activated security systems. Perhaps you have a big event planned. Deck, patio, and pool lighting can be focal points with professional installation.

Or maybe it’s time to make your living space more of a showplace (and less of a habitat). New lighting fixtures can do just that.

There are ways to lower the electricity bill and increase your property value. Contact TIO Electric today to discuss the lighting possibilities for your home or office.
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*Professional installation/maintenance is recommended/required

Author Chad
Categories Electrician, Maintenance, Residential, Safety

Is electrical outlet repair a DIY job?

Is electrical outlet repair a DIY job?

Q: How many Seahawks does it take to change a light bulb?
A: One, but it never gets done. They just hold the bulb up and wait for the world to revolve around them.

With the exception of changing a light bulb, most electrical jobs involve wiring. And no electrical wiring job – including electrical outlet repair – is DIY (do-it-yourself).

Signs You Need Electrical Outlet Repair

An electrical outlet is the wall receptacle that connects an electrical device plug to the electricity supply. They can be installed in floors and ceilings but are usually installed in walls.

There are different types of electrical outlets. Travelers often need adapters to convert the voltage in European outlets to accommodate U.S. electrical devices.

8 Signs you need electrical outlet repair include:

  1. Cracks/chips – Cracks in or chipped areas on the faceplate or outlet are more than cosmetic. Dust and dirt can build-up behind the faceplate and, like kindling, spark a fire.
  2. It isn’t working – Make sure the other room outlets work, then call your local electrician.
  3. Loose plugs – If your electronic plug-ins fall out of the outlet frequently, it’s time to replace those outlets.
  4. Power surges – If your device flickers on-and-off after you plug-in, your outlet could be “overpowered.” It shouldn’t be. It’s either damaged, outdated, worn-out, or all three.
  5. Scorching/melting – Burn marks or signs of melting plastic on the faceplate, the outlets, or the wall are major red flags. Contact your Phoenix- or Scottsdale-area electrician immediately.
  6. Smoke/sparks – If you see smoke or sparks near an outlet, call your electrician right away.
  7. Two-prong holes – If your electrical outlet has only 2 holes, it’s not just old; it’s not grounded. Replace those outdated outlets as soon as possible.
  8. Warmth/heat – If an outlet feels warm, you may have damaged or frayed wiring. In new homes, this indicates the wiring was improperly installed. Contact a licensed, bonded electrician asap.

When you believe electrical outlet repair is needed, you must contact a professional electrician. Some electrical outlet repair situations require immediate attention, but all of them are dangerous. Don’t delay.

Why You Need a Licensed Electrician for Electrical Outlet Repair

First, there’s really no such thing as “electrical outlet repair.” If you have problems, you need an electrical outlet replacement, not a repair.

Almost everyone understands DIY electrical wiring is risky at best. You risk damaging your property. You also risk serious injury and even death. It’s not worth the risk.

What many people don’t know is if you DIY an electrical project and later a fire or other damages occur that can be traced to that job, your insurance company can deny coverage. You need to be able to prove a licensed, insured, and bonded electrician did the work.

TIO Electric: Solutions for Maricopa County

Turn It On Electric inspects and replaces commercial and residential property outlets for Phoenix, Scottsdale, and nearby neighborhoods. In addition to being licensed and bonded professionals, we are also LEED-certified. This means we will offer sustainable, energy-saving options that will save money and increase your property value.

We recommend GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets for every property. If there’s a problem with the electrical flow, GFCI outlets shut off. If you have GFCI outlets but your home is older than 10 years, it may be time to replace them.

Our company believes in safety first. For our friends and neighbors with small children and grandchildren, we recommend tamper-resistant outlets.

Let’s plan this year’s electrical upgrade project before electrical emergency service is needed. Contact TIO Electric for a free consultation.

Author Chad
Categories Lighting, Safety

Hire an electrician to add overhead lights

Hire an electrician to add overhead lights

“Color temperature” is the way we describe the appearance of the light emitted by a lightbulb. The temperature is measured in degrees (Kelvins) from 1,000-10,000. When adding interior lights to homes and commercial properties, decorators choose color temperatures to deliver ambience or purpose.

Some of the Kelvins to consider if you plan to add overhead lights include:

  • 1,000K – Candlelight
  • 1,800K – Vintage/Victorian
  • 2,700K – LEDs
  • 3,000K – Warm white
  • 5,000K – Daylight
  • 10,000K – Blue sky

How to Add Overhead Lights

When you want to add overhead lights to a room, consider the room’s purpose and location. For example, you can enhance overhead light fixtures’ illumination with natural daylight.

To add overhead lights to larger rooms you may be able to mix-and-match. You could use warm white (3,000K) for the primary lighting and smaller, cool white (4,000K) light fixtures above workspaces and task sites.

Kitchens are a good example of ways to integrate and add overhead lights effectively. Warm, welcoming overhead lighting is perfect for the heart of your home. Then add overhead lights to your task areas; the sink and the counters. (The best “overhead” lighting for kitchen counters are under-cabinet lights.)

10 Types of Overhead Lights

The type of overhead lighting you choose is as important as the type of bulbs. Together, they form a partnership to convey a mood; a “feel.”

  1. Chandelier – Adds a focal point to any room
  2. Flush – Flat attachments mounted directly to the ceiling
  3. Hanging – Pendant lights are trending; mini-pendants are perfect for smaller rooms and hallways
  4. Indirect – Often LED lights; when mounted on or near crown molding offers a classic-but-modern upgrade to rooms
  5. Inverted pendant – Ambient light source also called “bowl pendants”
  6. Island – Similar to track and rail lighting; often hangs lower
  7. Recessed – Mounted in the ceiling
  8. Semi-flush – Fixtures hang 4\”-8\” from the ceiling
  9. Track and rail – Accent/task lighting mounted on a ceiling rail or suspended
  10. Utility – Usually flush-mounted, using LED bulbs

FYI:

  • A flush ceiling fixture directs light down. A semi-flush fixture directs light down and up. The illuminated ceiling helps a room appear larger.
  • Recessed lights require a minimum of 6\” clearance above your ceiling, however, newer models of lights may need less – check with us first.
  • In your dining room, the chandelier bottom should be 30\” above the table. If it’s hung too high, it makes the room look smaller; too low and it gets in the way.

2 Reasons Why You Need an Electrician to Add Overhead Lights

Here are two reasons why you need to hire a licensed electrician to add overhead lights – or to do any electrical wiring job – in your home or business.

1. Danger

An apartment manager hired an unlicensed electrician to upgrade washer/dryer 3-prong receptacles to 4-prong. The “electrician” replaced the receptacle without hooking up to a ground. A dangerous situation was created.

2. Death

The apartment tenant then decided to DIY (do-it-yourself) install his washer/dryer. He accidentally installed one of the “hot” wires to the ground screw. It sent 120 volts of electricity to the frame of the dryer. He then touched the water line for the washer while touching the dryer frame.

If the receptacle had been properly wired in the first place, it would have tripped the circuit breaker.

TIO Electric: Licensed, Bonded, Insured

Before you add overhead lights, let’s discuss staging and wiring. We want to be sure your ceiling can support the type of lights you’re considering. Turn It On Electric professionals are trained to complete every type of light installation.

When safety is important, contact TIO Electric. For us, your safety is always important.

Author Chad
Categories Electrician, Lighting

The best way to add lighting to a room

The best way to add lighting to a room

You’d think windows would be the best way to add lighting to a room. But knocking out walls is expensive and the sun doesn’t always cooperate anyway. The most reliable and effective way to add lighting to a room is to do it yourself.

4 Ways to Add Lighting to a Room

With every room in your home or apartment, ask yourself what you want to achieve. Do you want a comfortable setting for watching television? Do you want a room that is inviting and impresses visitors? Do you want to add accent lighting to a room or do you want the lighting itself to be the focal point?

  1. Choose colors and tones wisely. Whites accentuate light but appear “cold.” Colors give lighting warmer, more inviting hues.
  2. Every room should have at least 3 sources of light. Rooms should offer general (overhead), specific (table or floor lamps), and ambient (wall sconces, candles) lighting.
  3. If you have natural light, the best way to maximize it is to keep your windows clean! Sounds simple, but it’s one of the things homeowners tend to neglect.
  4. Mirrors and metallic accent pieces reflect light and add much to maximize ways you add lighting to a room.

Room-By-Room Light Additions

Kitchens can represent form and function if you have the right lighting.

If you love working in the kitchen, you know how under-cabinet lighting is an amazing tool for food prep. Pendant lamps are fun and versatile, and they work well above sinks, islands, and tables.

“Consider uplighting your kitchen for a luxe touch that’s worth every penny,” says home interior writer Melissa Epifano. It offers a soft glow to the room. It also highlights designer cabinetry and other attractive areas.

Whether it’s a formal or casual livingroom, when you add lighting to a room it becomes your own statement. “Table lamps are great, but…a large lantern, oversized pendant, or sculptural floor lamp” can add a focal point, says Epifano. Definitely consider dimmer switches for kitchen, bedrooms, and living room. Dimmer lighting sets the mood perfectly.

Nothing is more fun than a chandelier. The designs today are so exciting. You can choose from understated elegance or light-sculpture chandeliers for livingrooms.

Don’t forget the bathrooms. If your bathroom is where you partially dress or apply makeup, vanity lighting or adding mirror lights are best.

Bathroom overhead lighting, with its harshness and odd shadows, are detriments to your daily preparations. Ask about daylight-simulating light bulbs. This offers the best possible way to add lighting to a room in which you apply makeup.

TIO: The Best Way To Add Lighting To a Room

Plugging a lamp into a socket is safe enough (unless that socket has too many power strips and extenders attached). But for beautiful, professional ways to add lighting to a room, you should partner with your local electrical services company.

If you live in an older, historical home, the behind-the-scenes wiring can be tricky. And with today’s technologies, lighting additions can be more – and do more – than turn on and off. Turn It On Electric lighting pros are safety-minded, licensed, and bonded electricians.

We’ll work with your new-home or renovation contractors and interior designers to deliver the look you want. We can also team with you and your ideas. Let’s look at the possibilities! We can add lighting to a room, several rooms, and make plans for external lighting upgrades in the new year.

Contact TIO Electric and share your lighting ideas with us.

Author Chad
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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!
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