Categories Electrical Wiring, Electrician, Residential, Safety

Why you need a licensed electrician

Why you need a licensed electrician

If you\’re like most Phoenix homeowners, you\’ve had some form of an electrical issue on your property. But maybe it\’s not clear yet why you need a licensed electrician on your side every time.

Perhaps you\’ve had to replace faulty GFCI outlets or upgrade your wiring for safety purposes. You might have run new cables for a home theater system or installed solar panels to deliver clean energy.

For any of these, other common household electrical tasks, and emergencies, you should always call in a licensed electrician to do the job. Keep you and yours safe from the beginning of any project, throughout the process, and onward.

The Dangers of Not Working with a Licensed Electrician

Many homeowners prefer to complete any repairs and upgrades themselves, whether to save money or simply because they enjoy working with their hands. However, electrical work is not something that you should attempt to do on your own. It is a highly specialized task that can be fraught with danger if you don\’t know exactly what you are doing.

Aside from the possibility of electrocuting yourself, you may make mistakes in the process due to inexperience. This could leave you with faulty wiring, potentially exposing your property to the risk of electrical fires. In the event that something goes wrong, your homeowners\’ insurance may not cover the work, as it was not done by a licensed electrician.

You may also have considered hiring an unlicensed electrician due to lower prices for the same tasks. This is a mistake as well, as unlicensed service providers may cut corners and take shortcuts in order to keep their costs low. This can result in shoddy workmanship, low-quality materials, and other potential problems that could be even more costly to repair in the future.

The Benefits of Choosing a Licensed Electrician

When you work with a licensed electrician, you are virtually guaranteed high-quality work. In order to maintain their licenses, these electricians must consistently demonstrate that they perform work properly and within legal and safety guidelines. While unlicensed companies may follow proper safety protocols, they are not required to. Is that really a risk you are willing to take?

One of the biggest concerns that can be addressed through choosing a licensed electrician is a liability. If something does go wrong with any of the electrical work in the future, you\’ll want the electrical contractor or your homeowners\’ insurance to cover the cost of the repairs. Most insurance companies, though, will only pay out if the electrical work was completed with a permit. This is something that is only available through licensed electricians.

For your safety and peace of mind, you must work with a licensed professional. The initial cost may be a bit higher than it would if you hired an unlicensed electrician or did the job yourself. However, it is well worth it for the safety of your home and loved ones. And affordability is still a factor – even with the best electrical contractor around.

Trust Turn It On Electric for All Your Electrical Needs in Phoenix

We are proud to be your licensed electrician contractor. We always follow the latest safety protocols and guidelines. Trust us to work hard to stay at the forefront of the electrical industry. And to provide our clients with high-quality materials and skilled workmanship. We truly care about our customers and do everything in our power to ensure complete satisfaction.

If you need any kind of electrical work done, you can count on us to get the job done right. Reach out today for a free consultation. We\’ll gladly provide you with a no-cost, no-obligation quote for the job.

Categories Electrical Wiring, Electrician, Residential, Safety

How surge suppressors can save your electronics

How surge suppressors can save your electronics

Electrical surges are always caused by lightning strikes or transformer outages, right? Wrong. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) says up to 80% of all power surges originate in your home. And surge suppressors can help.

Think about the number of electronics in your home when you were a kid. Now, you likely have more valuable electronics and equipment in one room than an average 1980s residence. In fact, electrical consumption increased by more than 200% between 1980-2013.

So, there\’s a great deal to power up at home today.

Let\’s learn more about surge suppressors and how they\’re an effective way to protect your electronics and appliances from power spikes.

Surge Suppressors Prevent Expensive Damages

It’s ironic that the biggest causes of in-home power surges are appliances (ones most likely to be damaged by a power surge). Refrigerators, freezers, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) systems are the main culprits. But you can cause a whole-house blackout with a hairdryer working in the bathroom or a power tool project in the garage.

Surge suppressors are well worth the investment. Did you know an average home has over $15,000 worth of appliances and equipment that need protection from power surges?

Benefits of SPDs

Most in-home power surges are caused by large electrical appliances that switch on and off. SPDs (surge protection devices) or “surge suppressors” have multiple advantages:

  • Add safety by limiting the chances of fire
  • Cost a fraction of what it would take to repair and replace damaged appliances and electronics
  • Lower energy use
  • Maintain reliability and operation of electronics by controlling electrical flow
  • Reduce energy expenses

Whole-House Surge Suppressors: What to Consider

There are several key considerations for purchasing a whole-house surge suppressor. What do you want to protect? Everything, of course.

By themselves, whole-house suppressors can’t completely stop power surges. You should also have plug-in surge suppressors. Plug-in units can be small and inexpensive or can be “the size of a pizza box that guard all the components in a home theater,” says This Old House.

Look for whole-house surge suppressors rated to stop a minimum 40,000-amp surge. You’ll want an alarm that lets you know when a power surge has occurred. You’ll also want thermal fuses. Your local electrician will hard-wire your whole-house surge suppressor to the service panel. (Without complications, the installation can take about 2 hours.)

Before you buy: You must ensure the suppressor will work with your system. If it doesn’t, you may need to purchase additional equipment. Ask your electrician if you are unsure. Surge suppressors for lake cottages don’t need the same power as a 2,500-square-foot home. And check out all warranty options.

The Best Whole-House Surge Suppressors

If you research whole-house surge suppressors for yourself, you’ll see mixed reviews for several top products.

It\’s best to talk with your licensed electrician about which surge suppressor suits your home and its electronics best. The experts at Turn It On Electric will assess your property and appliances. Then they\’ll determine which makes the most sense for your usage and protection.

In this case, a customized evaluation is necessary. Don\’t be lured by \”quick fixes\” or a \”great deal\” out there. When it comes to your home and safety, choose to listen to an experienced electrical contractor.

3 Steps to Increase Safety and Property Value

After losing a Sub-Zero® refrigerator ($5,000+), two KitchenAid® wall ovens ($3,000+), and several computer and entertainment electronics, a Phoenix-area homeowner was more than happy to invest in a whole-house surge protection system. (The installation cost was much less than replacing the damaged appliances and electronics.)

Turn It On Electric of Phoenix can work with you to protect your property while increasing its value. Let’s explore the affordability of surge suppressors for your home or business.

Follow these steps:

  1. Make a list of your property’s appliances and electronics.
  2. Do an outlet count.
  3. Contact Turn It On Electric today!
Categories Electric Bill, Electrical Wiring, Maintenance, Residential

How to create energy efficiency in your home

How to create energy efficiency in your home

Efforts toward planet preservation begin at home. Your home. When you practice energy efficiency with your household, you improve our quality of life.

Maximizing energy efficiency in your home isn’t that difficult. In fact, it’s a viable investment in future generations and their environment.

“Homeowners can save energy while improving their home’s comfort level,” says Arizona Building Inspections. “Substantial savings are possible…”

Learn more about these today!

Simple Solutions for Energy Efficiency in Your Home

These may seem like no-brainers, but all of us need reminders:

  • Air-dry laundry. Wash in the morning and hang to dry. (Washer/dryers use 13% of your home’s energy.)
  • Turn down the air conditioning and wear fewer clothes.
  • Turn off electronic devices when you aren’t using them.
  • Switch off the lights in rooms that are not in use.

Measure

An interesting experiment for your family is to measure energy efficiency in your home with the Home Energy Yardstick. You’ll need to know:

  • Home’s square footage
  • List of home fuels (electricity, gas, etc.)
  • Number of full-time occupants
  • Utility bills for the previous 12 months
  • ZIP code

10 Upgrades for Energy Efficiency in Your Home

We enjoy living in sunny Phoenix, but windows are energy-losers. One way to increase energy efficiency in your home is to apply Low-E window film to your home’s windows. Window film can block as much as 66% of the sun’s heat.

Ten home improvements that will lower energy bills and increase your property value include:

1 – Ceiling fans

They aren’t aesthetically pleasing to some people, but ceiling fans go a long way. They keep your air cool, flowing, and comfortable. Plus, they’re an affordable investment.

2 – Evaluate appliances

Older dishwashers consume about 10 gallons of water per-use. A new dishwasher can cut that in half. Other pre-EnergyStar appliances, like microwaves, stoves, and refrigerators, should be replaced when possible.

3 – Get smart

Smart, programmable thermostats save consumers about 15% on heating/cooling costs. They raise and lower temperatures based on your family’s usage patterns. You can save energy when you’re away. That\’s right. Set them to cool or warm your Phoenix home right before you return.

4 – Go LED

LED light bulbs are an essential investment to increase energy efficiency in your home. LEDs last 20 times longer and use much less energy. You should see lower utility bills almost immediately.

5 – Install on-demand/tankless water heater

Lower energy bills mean an ROI (return on investment) and ups the value of your home. Achieve this by installing a new water heater.

6 – Insulation

Arizona attics are frequently neglected because we seldom use them. A lot of cool air can escape from your attic if you don’t have good insulation. If your attic has less than 10\” of fiberglass or 8\” of cellulose insulation, you should add more.

7 – Regulate water

Installing low-flow water fixtures and/or restrictor valves can reduce water consumption. This saves money.

8 – Replace doors and windows

Aluminum frames don’t do a great job of keeping hot air out in summer. Or keeping it in during winter. This is an expensive investment. But your long-term and resale ROI will be real.

9 – Seal cracks and leaks

Do a visual inspection of doors and windows. Small cracks allow cool air to escape. Fill them with foam sealant and mark your calendar to re-inspect every 6 months.

10 – Unplug

When not in use, pull the plug on toasters, TVs, computers. Idle, plugged-in appliances can add as much as 10% to your electric bill.

LEED-Certified Electric Pros for Phoenix and Tucson Neighborhoods

Turn It On Electric is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified by the United States Green Building Council (USBG). This means our company promotes efforts to reduce energy waste and save money.

We care about sustainable alternatives to increase energy efficiency in your home or commercial property. If you want to save money and save the planet, contact us today.

Categories Electrical Wiring, Outdoor, Residential

Adding a pool light switch

Adding a pool light switch

Do your grandparents tell you of a time in our history when there were no television remote controls? The remotes were never lost behind cushions because the channel-changer was always on the other side of the room. On the television. Your pool light switch is usually distanced from the pool as well.

Walking out to your pool just to turn on your pool lights is a thing of the past. With the surging popularity of pool automation systems and new product lines…controlling your pool lights is a piece of cake. INYO Pools

Relocating Your Pool Light Switch

Enjoying the amenities of your home is a focus this year. We can swim almost year ’round in Phoenix, so we’re certainly spending more time in our backyard pools and spas. If your kids swim at night, you need the added security of good lighting in and outside the pool. Running to the pump house or the patio to flip on your pool light switch at dusk is a hassle.

The consensus is it’s better to run your pool pump during the day. This enhances sanitation. Chlorine is degraded by sunlight, so the circulation keeps chlorine levels where they need to be.) But if your pool light switch is set to come on when the pool pump is running, you miss the underwater beauty of night swimming.

There are several ways to rewire or relocate your pool light switch for convenience without compromising safety.

Pool Lights are Trending

Pool lights can add ambiance and excitement to nighttime fun and games. Here are some recommendations for lighting* that may include relocating your pool light switch:

  • Automation – Why stop at a remote-controlled pool light switch? You can control pump cycles, heating, filtration, and lighting from a remote control. You’ll need an LED light and a controller to start.  It may seem pricey at first glimpse, but it is a solid investment and worth the cost.
  • Remote-controlled LED light – A 120volts/20 watts color-changing pool light is now available. You can select colors/color shows, and even speed control from the handheld remote control. (There may be a delay in delivery at this time.)

8 Swimming Pool Lighting Tips

Swimming pools can use a lot of energy using conventional products. You can use renewable energy resources for pools and other products in your home, too.Tim, Field Supervisor/TIO Electric

Here are some all-around ideas to make your swimming pool lighting effective and attractive:

  1. Consider 2 pool lights facing each other; the look is bold.
  2. Don’t aim light fixtures at seating areas.
  3. Don’t under-light your pool: Arrange as many lights as you need for sufficient lighting.
  4. Examine how your pool liner will impact lighting.
  5. For an impressive presentation, consider a combination of spot beams, floaters, and underwater lights.
  6. Fountains and waterfalls deserve their own light systems.
  7. Highlighting trees and foliage adds depth to your pool area.
  8. Never neglect pool deck lighting.

Turn It On Electric Your Local, Phoenix Electrician

Turn It On Electric professionals see safety, economy, and energy conservation as our customer service mission. With the proper swimming pool and landscape lighting, you can protect your youngsters as well as enhance the ambiance of your home and property.

Let’s estimate your swimming pool and landscaping lighting options to see what’s possible…and affordable. Contact Turn It On Electric today.
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*Turn It On Electric does not endorse any pool and/or pool accessories or lighting brand(s) and always advises consumers to retain a licensed electrician for any electrical service installations/relocations.

Categories Electrical Wiring, Safety

Why usb receptacles are all the rage

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.