Chad – Page 30 – Turn It On Electric

Residential, Safety

What Kind of Security Cameras Are Best for My Home?

10Jun2020

There are plenty of reasons your home needs security cameras.

Nanny and nursery security cameras are fixtures in households with babies and babysitters. Your kids may be old enough to stay home alone, but your 13-year-old thinks he’s a master chef. With kitchen cams, you can monitor kids’ safety while allowing them creative freedom.

Outside, yard monitoring and safety is another issue for which home security cameras are the solution. Most home robberies are opportunity-based. Locked doors and windows are the best precautions. But motion-light sensors are terrific deterrents.

Indoor Security Cameras

When your mom said she had “eyes in the back of her head,” you thought she was kidding. Today, Mom has eyes in her ceiling fans and corners of almost every room in the house. Indoor security cameras have quickly resolved “He did it!” “No, she did it!” disputes.

Timed lighting devices and cameras are powerful indoor security tools for homeowners. In May 2020, NY Times Wirecutter released its best indoor security cameras list:

Logitech Circle 2 – Continuous recording, 180-degree view, smart geofencing, user-friendly, and sharp 1080p video give Logitech the vote for best indoor wifi camera. Integrates support with Amazon, Apple, and Google.
Google Nest Cam Indoor – Records 24/7, delivers alerts, and links to other smart home devices.
Arlo Q – Customizable activity zones, alerts, and 7-day video storage. After about 3 years, the video gets a pinkish tint, but customer service responds quickly, even after the warranty expires.
Wyze Cam v2 – These indoor security cameras deliver a lot of bang for about $25 bucks. They integrate with Alexa, Google, and IFTTT.

Security Cameras for Your Pets

Indoor pet cams are increasingly popular. You can alleviate separation anxiety (your pet’s and your’s) while away from home. Top-rated pet cams include:

Pawbo Life – This device comes with a treat dispenser and an integrated laser for game-playing. 720p HD resolution, 130-degree view, no night vision but 2-way audio. Special ringtone alerts pet you are “tuning in” for a chat.
Furbo – 1080p HD resolution with a 16-degree view, night vision, and 2-way audio. When your dog barks, it triggers an alert on your smartphone. Lights cue your dog that you’re about to speak and a treat dispenser reinforces training and rewards.
PetChatz PawCall – Chew-resistant design with 720p HD resolution, 65.5-degrees view; no night vision. Allows pets to “see” you during a call. It comes with a paw pad so your pet can signal you when lonely. Integrated treat dispenser and a calming aromatherapy option.

Outdoor Security Cameras

Some say a mean dog is the best outdoor security, but that may no longer be the case: Ring outdoor floodlight camera and siren is a best-seller because it has an evolutionary protection system:

A loud security siren-alert
Real-time motion-detection or recorded views
Two hardwired, super LED floodlights
Wide-angle, customizable field-of-view zones video camera

In addition to the Ring outdoor floodlight system, Review.org’s May 2020 picks for outdoor security included:

Amchrest 4k Dome
Arlo Ultra
Google Nest Cam IQ
Vivint Outdoor

Turn It On Electric Security Cameras Installations Protect Loved Ones and Increase Property Values

Turn It On Electric of Arizona is an electrical contracting company serving Maricopa County and nearby communities. We often recommend Ring security systems for all-around, whole-house indoor, and outdoor security installation. Ask us about an estimate for security lights, cameras, and motion sensors. It’s a smart investment in your home and family.

Lighting, Safety

The difference between security lights and motion sensors

5Jun2020

Security lights and motion sensors often go hand-in-hand, but you\’ll find both styles in other configurations as well. It is important to understand the differences so you know which is best for your needs. Here\’s a look at some of the most common features for motion sensors and security lights.

Types of Security Lights

The goal of security lights is to brighten your property at night and deter potential thieves. Within this category, you\’ll have several different options.

Security Lights without Motion Sensors

Security lights without motion-detection capabilities will typically remain on constantly. This way, your property will be illuminated throughout the night, keeping potential thieves away.

Depending on the variety you choose, you may be able to set the lights on a timer so that they are only on at night. With this configuration, your lights will still come on even if you don\’t activate them manually. This is great for protecting your home while you are out of town, as it will make it seem like someone is still home.

Some variations also detect light, only coming on from dusk until dawn. These lights will remain off during the day and come on when the amount of ambient light drops below a specific level. When the sun comes back up in the morning, the lights will turn off. With this type of security light, you won\’t need to adjust the timer as sunrise and sunset times shift throughout the seasons.

Security Lights with Motion Sensors

Motion sensor lights only come on when something moves and triggers the device. The idea behind this is that the sudden bright light will scare off burglars before they have a chance to break into your home or business. If there is no movement detected, these lights will stay off, keeping your property dark and helping to conserve electricity.

Security Lights with Video Cameras

Many modern security lights, like those from Ring, also include video cameras. These cameras can be motion-sensitive, or they may operate constantly. Be sure to check which type you are buying so you know what to expect in terms of capabilities. Some cameras only maintain video footage for a limited time, while others store all historical data. If you need to provide video footage to police, it is important to know how long you have before the footage is deleted.

Other Uses for Motion Sensors

While motion sensors are common for security lights, that is not their only use. You\’ll also find motion sensors for other types of outdoor lighting, as well as indoor lighting. In either case, the purpose of adding motion sensors is to minimize wasted electricity. If the sensor doesn\’t detect any motion for a specified period of time, it will turn the lights off automatically. This way, you won\’t accidentally leave the lights on in or outside your home when you leave to go to work or on vacation.

Get Expert Help Installing Motion Sensors

If you are looking to protect your Phoenix home or business with security lighting and motion sensors, Turn It On Electric is here to help. We\’ll get your property set up so that it will be as safe as possible. Our experienced team members will install any necessary wiring for the lights as well, and they\’ll also test everything to ensure it is working properly.

We invite you to reach out to us at any time if you have questions about lighting and other electrical concerns. We\’re always happy to provide our clients with more information. Get in touch with us today to schedule a service appointment to discuss your needs.

Electrical Wiring, Safety

Why usb receptacles are all the rage

5Jun2020

We\’ve all been there: you get home from work or an evening out with your friends, and your smartphone is barely hanging on to the last of its battery life. After digging through your purse, work bag, junk drawer, and pretty much everywhere else you can think of, you just can\’t seem to find the USB adapter for your charging cable.

This can be incredibly frustrating, but fortunately, there is a better option: USB receptacles. Here\’s what you need to know about these and other electrical outlet types to decide which is best for your Phoenix home.

Outlets with USB Receptacles

Between your smartphone, tablet, digital camera, children\’s toys, and other electronic devices, you\’ve probably got a lot of things that charge using USB cables. In addition to needing to keep track of all adapters, you\’ll also need to have plenty of available outlets to accommodate them. Modern outlets with USB receptacles are the perfect solution to this common problem.

These types of outlets include space for you to plug the USB cable directly into the outlet with no need for an adapter. This not only eliminates the need for countless adapters. It also keeps your outlets free for lamps and other electronics. You\’ll need a professional to install outlets with USB receptacles, so keep this in mind when making your decision.

GFCI Outlets

Ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets are another common household outlet style. These types of outlets are most commonly used in areas that get a lot of moisture, like kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas. If the outlet detects any anomalies in the power supply, it will automatically disconnect the power supply.

This serves to minimize the risk of electrocution, electrical fires, and other emergencies. As with outlets with USB receptacles, you\’ll typically need an electrician to install GFCI outlets for you.

Tamper-Resistant Outlets

For those with children, tamper-resistant (TR) outlets are a great option for enhanced safety. With this type of outlet, the holes in the outlet remain covered when not in use. When you need to use the outlet, applying pressure to both covers at the same time with the prongs of the plug will open them.

When you remove the plug, the covers slide back into place. This prevents small children from sticking objects into the outlets, potentially putting themselves at risk of electrocution. It\’s a wise idea to not take this project on yourself due to the dangers inherent in electrical work.

Trust Us for Professional Outlet Installation in Phoenix

Whether you need TR outlets, GFCI outlets, outlets with USB receptacles, or some combination of the three, Turn It On Electric is here to help. We\’ll install any outlets you need safely and efficiently. This way, you don\’t need to worry about the possibility of electrocuting yourself or damaging your home. We\’ll always inspect and test everything after the job is complete to ensure the outlets and their safety features are all working as they should.

When you are ready to install new outlets or USB receptacles in your Phoenix home, get in touch with us right away. We will gladly answer all of your questions and let you know which outlet types are best for your needs. Reach out today to get started.

Lighting

Ease Eye Strain With New Home Lighting

24May2020

Working from home is growing in popularity, whether you are self-employed or your employer permits a more flexible work schedule. However, to make the most of your time and effort, you need to have a comfortable work space. In addition to the proper furnishings and electronics to help you get your job done, you\’ll also need adequate lighting. Poor lighting can lead to eye strain, headaches and other physical complications, not just in your home office, but in other rooms as well. Here\’s what you need to know to upgrade your home\’s lighting to reduce eye strain.

Minimize Eye Strain in the Home Office

Your home office is one of the most important areas to have proper lighting to prevent eye strain. Staring at a computer screen all day can be really hard on your eyes, especially if you don\’t have enough ambient light. In addition to specialized task lighting for your desk, you\’ll also want to include broader light for the rest of the room. Recessed lights overhead, as well as standing lamps, are great for this purpose.

Study Area

Children and teenagers may not have work to do per se, but they\’ll likely have homework for school. Just like in your home office, your children will need task and ambient lighting for their study areas to reduce eye strain. Have fun with the design of the lights you choose to keep the space kid-friendly. If they are old enough, let them choose their own lighting to make the space feel like their own.

Hobby Area

If you\’re spending more time at home these days, there is only so much TV you can watch. Starting or reconnecting with a hobby can be a great way to pass the time. Depending on the hobby you choose, your lighting needs will vary. Some tasks, like painting or woodworking will require plenty of bright light so you can see what you are doing without eye strain. For dancing, yoga, and other active hobbies, you\’ll still need light, but it won\’t need to be as bright and focused.

Kitchen

If you have ever tried to chop an onion in dim light, you know how important it is to have enough light in your kitchen. Not only will this help to prevent eye strain, but it will also help prevent you from accidentally cutting yourself. Overhead lighting is common in kitchens, though you may also want to consider under-cabinet lighting to shed even more light on your food prep space. This will also minimize any shadows your body might cast.

Bathrooms and Eye Strain

An often-overlooked area in terms of lighting design is the bathroom. While many people take care of designing the layout and decor of the bathroom, lighting often seems like an afterthought. However, shaving and putting on makeup are two tasks that require plenty of light. A common option is to install lights above your mirror, but this isn\’t the only choice available to you. You can also add lights along the sides of the mirror to fill in the light from the sides. This will make it easier to see your face with minimal shadows from overhead.

Learn More About Improving Your Lighting

Overhauling the lighting in your Phoenix home can seem like a daunting task. Fortunately, it doesn\’t have to be when you work with Turn It On Electric. We\’ll provide insight and expert advice to help you improve your lighting design to improve the overall look of the space and also prevent eye strain. Reach out to our team today to learn more about our services and schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.

Lighting

Pros and Cons of Dimmer Switches

24May2020

Dimmer switches are popular choices for homeowners looking to enhance the mood lighting in their homes. Adding dimmable lights can help you create an enjoyable atmosphere while also lowering your energy usage and costs. Despite all the benefits, dimmers do have some drawbacks as well. Here\’s what you need to know to decide if dimmer switches are right for your Phoenix home.

Benefits of Dimmer Switches

The biggest benefit of using dimmers is that it gives you increased control over your lighting design. You can set the lights to a bright setting while you are working or enjoying a hobby. Then, if you are hosting guests in the evening, you can dim them down to create a more festive atmosphere. You may also be able to utilize colored light bulbs, enabling you to customize the lighting even further.

Because you can achieve such a wide range of brightness with your dimmable lighting, you can install multiple lights throughout the room. This way, you\’ll always be able to have bright light when you need it and dim the lights when you don\’t. By keeping the light low, you\’ll also be using less electricity to power the lights, making it easy to save on your energy bills. Motion sensor options are also available, turning off the lights when no one is in the room.

With modern technology, you can even find dimmer switches with smart capabilities. Depending on the specific features of the device, you may be able to operate it from your smartphone or voice-activated assistant. Some models even include programming capabilities, allowing you to set your lights to automatically cycle through various lighting concepts throughout the day.

Drawbacks of Dimmer Switches

Of course, there are a few pitfalls to be aware of when considering dimmable lighting. For starters, not all dimmer switches are compatible with LED lighting. If you prefer this long-lasting, environmentally friendly light bulb style, you\’ll need to take care in choosing a dimmer switch that can accommodate it. Make sure that you understand the compatibility requirements of any dimmer switch on your shortlist.

You\’ll also need to hire a qualified electrician to install a dimmer switch for you. It is somewhat of a complex task, so it is best to leave it to the professionals to minimize your risk of electrocution or electrical fire. Finally, some dimmer switches produce a buzzing noise, which can be annoying over time. Check customer reviews before buying anything to avoid these and other common issues.

Upgrade Your Phoenix Home with Dimmers

If you are interested in adding dimmer switches to some of the lights in your Phoenix home, reach out to Turn It On Electric. We\’ll be happy to help you evaluate the myriad options available to you to help you narrow down your choices. We\’ll take your needs and preferences into account to find the perfect dimmer switch for your home.

Our team is always here to answer any questions you may have about dimmable lights or any other electrical concerns. Feel free to reach out to us at any time for assistance. Call today to schedule a consultation appointment to discuss your needs in greater detail.

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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!