Electrical Wiring – Page 4 – Turn It On Electric

Electrical Fire Safety: Fall Tips

30Oct2022

Depending on your point of view, fall can be a season of endings. Summer vacations and many outdoor activities are finished for the year. Others see fall as a season of beginnings; school resumes, and plans for winter holidays are already in the works. Fall is the perfect time to prepare for more time at home and increased electrical usage. Here are 3 tips to promote electrical fire safety.

3 Electrical Fire Safety & Prevention Tips

TIO…replaced our circuit panel and upgraded our home wiring, repaired our brother’s condo wiring, and today repaired
a fire-hazard wiring fault in our rental unit. …We will
not hire anyone else in the Phoenix area. –Sun City

In 2021, nineteen Arizona residents perished in home fires. None of those fires were caused by electrical malfunctions. However, in June, an electrical fire demolished a needy family’s donated trailer home and injured two people. One of the residents had replaced fuses in the breaker box and later saw smoke coming from the box. Smoke near an electrical outlet, switch, or fixture is one of the warning signs that you need to contact a local electrician.

You may already have an idea of some of the electrical fire safety upgrades you need. An annual electrical fire safety inspection may reveal others, including:

Defective outlets, plugs, and switches
Deterioration due to age or lack of maintenance
Faulty wiring installation
Overloaded circuits

1. Inspect Wiring Systems

If your home was built in the 1960s or early ’70s, you may need to have aluminum wiring replaced for electrical fire safety. Your home’s electrical installation also may have been altered by prior owners. If you suspect electrical rewiring was a previous owner’s DIY (do-it-yourself) project, your property may be at risk for an arc fault. (An arc fault occurs when electrical wires “leak” energized heat that can ignite wood and other nearby materials.)

A home electrical inspector will check to ensure all wiring meets current code requirements. It’s important to repair outlets or switches with wiring issues and to replace any malfunctioning electrical outlets or switches.

2. Look at the Lights

It’s romantic to put a sheer, colored scarf across a lampshade. It can instantly change the mood of a room. It can also catch fire, which changes the mood of the room even faster. The good news is, you can usually smell it burning before it ignites. The bad news is nearby combustibles like curtains can ignite quickly.

Light bulbs can be fire risks. Inspect your lights for:

Location – You don’t want curtains blowing into light bulbs from open windows. Look for any lamp or light fixture position that is too close to combustible materials.
UL® label – Underwriters Laboratories tests for electrical fire safety and approves products meeting their requirements. Only buy electronics with the UL label. Counterfeiting can occur with online purchases so be sure to know the characteristics of the UL mark.
Wattage – Using a safe lightbulb in any light fixture can be unsafe if the wattage is wrong.

3. Walk the Lines

Before your fall electrical inspection, walk through rooms in your homes to see if you have these fire risks:

Electrical cords under:
- Bedspreads/bedding that touches the floor
- Carpets/rugs
Electrical cords across:
- Doorways
- High-traffic areas
Extension cords
Frayed cords
Loose/wobbly plug-ins/outlets
Overloaded outlets
Spliced cords

Giant inflatables, animatronics, and festive lights are ways we celebrate at home. If you have electronic displays that include extension cords crossing your front yard, be sure to keep fallen leaves away from your electrical cords and hookups.

Fall is also the time of year to inspect smoke detectors. This is a basic service our Turn It On Electric technician provides during an annual electrical inspection. To schedule yours, contact TIO Electric.

Electrical Wiring, Electrician

How Often Do I Need an Electrical Inspection?

30Oct2022

Some people say they miss “the good old days” when times were simpler. Today’s technology has us doing more faster, and it can be either overwhelming or exciting. There’s nothing simple about how much and how often we use electricity. An electrical inspection every year can tell you what your home needs today and even tomorrow.

Electrical Inspections for Safety, Upgrades

When buying a home, especially an older house, scheduling an electrical inspection is a good idea. A home’s wiring can and should last many years, but its insulation can crack with age and expose wires.

Electrical panels have an expiration date. If it’s between 20-40 years old, it’s time to plan an electrical panel replacement.

If you’re planning any major remodeling project, an electrical inspection can prevent hazards and pinpoint problem areas. Also, major renovations require permits, and your licensed electrician can make sure your wiring is installed safely as well as code-compliant. Remodeling is a good opportunity for updating and/or reconfiguring your home’s electricity.

Your home is probably your largest asset, so professional maintenance is a good investment. It not only increases your property value, but it can also give you a competitive edge in a buyers’ market. Routine electrical inspections in Arizona should be scheduled every year. Electrical maintenance can also save energy, which saves money by lowering your monthly utility bill.

3 Signs You Need an Electrical Inspection Now

Your electrical system is designed for protection. There are warning signs that indicate a problem, and some problems are more dangerous than others. Signs you need to schedule an electrical inspection right away include:

Burning odor – A burning smell near any of your outlets, switches, or the circuit panel box is a major red flag. Your local electrician should be contacted immediately.
Heat – If plug-in outlets, switches, or switch plates feel warm to the touch when you plug in or turn them on, there’s likely a wiring problem. If they feel warm when not in use, that’s an even bigger red flag. Schedule an electrical inspection as soon as possible.
Noise – A humming, buzzing sound from any electrical outlet or switch indicates a loose connection or dangerous wiring problem.

Lesser issues that also pose dangers are flickering lights and a circuit breaker that frequently trips off and on. When you plug anything in, it’s not normal to see sparks. It could be the appliance or the outlet, but you need to have it checked out.

If you’re using extension cords in almost every room, that’s another red flag. It means you don’t have enough outlets to support your energy use. Extension cords are great as temporary fixes. But they also offer inconsistent connectivity and pose fall risks to family and visitors.

What Happens During an Electrical Inspection?

If you have noticed any problems during customary electrical usage, your local licensed electrician will examine those areas first. Other tasks during an electrical inspection may include checking for:

Aged/deteriorating wiring
DIY (do-it-yourself) wiring
Electrical risks
Exposed wires
Light fixtures/sockets
Outdated circuitry that doesn’t meet today’s codes
Powerbox integrity
Power points
Safety switches
Smoke alarms
Sufficient service
Uncovered wiring
…and more

A reputable electrician is licensed. But thanks to the internet, you can spot electrical service companies’ red flags as easily as the ones in your home.

Look for 5-star Angi/HomeAdvisor ratings. Look for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)-certified electrical professionals. And if you’re looking for knowledge, experience, and superior customer care, contact Turn It On Electric.

Electrical Wiring, Residential

Outlet and Switch Replacement: 6 Things to Know

27Aug2022

Outlet and switch replacement isn’t a typical home improvement and certainly not a DIY (do-it-yourself) job. It’s probably not a project you’d plan for aesthetics, but outlet and switch replacement can improve property value and reduce risks.

Clues You May Need Outlet and Switch Replacement

Many homeowners schedule electrical inspections every five years. When you consider the additional technology that increases our electrical use every year, electrical home and office inspections in Phoenix should be scheduled every 2 years.

If you suspect you need outlet and switch replacement, here are six questions to ask yourself:

Are any plug-in outlets or light switches hot, have burn/scorch marks, or faulty?
This includes loose/wobbly switches. If your electric fireplace has a delayed start or it takes several attempts to get a light fixture to turn on, your switches are fire risks.
Loose outlets or connectors/plug-ins that fall out of the outlet are red flags.
Do you have arcing outlets/switches?
Signs include black/burn marks on plug-in outlets and switches, cracks or damaged coverplates, or loose connections.
Do you hear noises (buzzing) from a light fixture or switch?
Even if the noise seems to be coming from the light fixture, it can indicate a faulty switch.
Do your lights flicker or cycle off and on?
Defective single-pole switches, as well as 3-way switches, can cause flickering lights/short-cycling.
How old is your electrical system?
Twenty years is a benchmark for having your electrical system inspected for safety. Usage makes a difference; some switches and outlets are seldom used and many are over-used.
How old is your home or commercial property?
If it was built more than 20 years ago, residential or commercial electrical inspection in Phoenix may reveal you need outlet/switch replacement.

FYIs About Outlet and Switch Replacement

You make informed decisions when you strive to learn more about your property’s electrical usage, conduits, and components. For example, make a list of all heavy-duty appliances and their outlets. When you add a new appliance that is heavy with technology whistles and bells, your electrical load probably increases.

Here are some for-your-information facts:

If you have a light switch that “doesn’t do anything,” it may be a switched outlet. An example would be a bedroom that has no light fixture/chandelier…but there’s a light switch by the door.
Some outlets are “angled,” and others are flat. The angled outlets are designed to allow 2-prong connectors to plug in more tightly.
The average home has 70+ outlets. Other words used for “outlets” include “receptacles” and “plug-ins.”
The NEC (National Electrical Code) says outlets can be installed with the ground up, down, or sideways. What’s your preference?
There’s more than one way to wire an electrical outlet.
- Back wiring – Good option
- Side wiring – Most frequently used
- Speed wiring – Not recommended
Turn It On Electric welcomes your questions and can provide free estimates for electrical upgrades, including outlet and switch replacement

Let’s discuss a home improvement project that offers the best possible ROI (return on investment): safety. If you’re planning to sell your “good old house,” this kind of investment will also increase your property value in a competitive market.

To learn more, contact TIO Electric.

Electrical Wiring, Residential

Understanding Baseboard Outlets

26Jun2022

We need and appreciate electricity. It offers us a superior quality of life, safety, and security. It provides “illuminating” lights and insights.

We looked up and saw too many overhead wires above our homes. Then we began looking around and saw too many electrical wires and cords inside our houses. Underground wiring for improved landscaping is a priority in many housing communities. And now, baseboard outlets are trending inside those homes.

Baseboard Outlets: Out of Sight, Out of Mind

Do you know why so many room layouts are appealing in decorating and home improvement magazines? One reason is that you don’t see a lot of electrical cords running from lamps and appliances to wall outlets.

The illusion is real. One interior décor pro says she not only Photoshops® electrical cords but also eliminates the wall outlets in advertising images. Strategically placed cookbooks and bottles of oil are often used. But if professional architectural photographers cannot hide the outlets, Photoshop can remove outlet covers.

Baseboard outlets are one way to eliminate “cord clutter.” And you don’t need to be a minimalist to appreciate that advantage. “When I see tangled cords around the office power strip or worse – in my living room – I think it tangles my mind, too,” said one Phoenix homeowner. “It’s just disorganized.”

Houzz says baseboard outlets simply look more refined. You get a cleaner wall appearance.

Kitchen Outlets Can Be Creatively, Strategically Located

Wireless appliances may be in our future but for now, we’re seeking creative ways to manage electrical efficiency and appearance. Kitchen designers in particular are beginning to research eliminating or at least disguising visible electric outlets. Because most small appliance cords are no longer than 24 inches, this can be trickier than you think.

In addition to baseboard outlets, you can install:

Appliance garage – This is a kitchen cupboard created especially for coffeemakers, toasters, food processors, etc. Your local Phoenix electrician will know code requirements for the safe placement of plug-ins.
Architectural art – If you can’t beat ’em, decorate ’em. If you want a professional artist to create an outlet-hiding wall painting, it’s a very popular trend. (This may work for one area of the kitchen but incorporating electrical outlet art into every wall is overkill.)
Backsplashes – Some new-home kitchen backsplashes are designed to hide electrical outlets. The outlet covers themselves blend into the backsplash design. You can even install Legrand adorn® pop-up outlets that make your outlets (almost) disappear.
Underneath – This is another way to hide outlets. Locating them under the cabinet or underneath countertops is a great idea if you store unused appliances out of sight. Your kitchen counters will have a clean, minimalist appearance that is eye-pleasing.

Electrical Design for Your Home

All electrical reconfigurations require the expertise of a licensed electrician. In Central Arizona, Turn It On Electric professionals are known for their technology training. We also understand the need to customize electrical solutions for per-room form and function.

We will work with you or your architect to design safe, utilitarian, attractive electrical solutions for your home. Let’s plan your baseboard outlets! Contact TIO Electric.
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Electrical Wiring, Residential

3 Electrical Upgrades to Consider This Summer

26Jun2022

This summer holds the promise of being one of the best! We are spending more time at home; playing and working. For Summer 2022, many of us are examining ways to make our home lifestyles more engaging and safer. Electrical upgrades in Central Arizona can be affordable as well as enhance your quality of living.

Electrical Upgrades: Safety, Convenience, or Fun

What’s your priority? Upgrading outside lighting can include landscape lights, motion-activated lights, and more. Smart-home electrical upgrades are added conveniences that also increase the value of your property. Swimming pool lights and fun recreational lighting are entertainment options your friends and family will enjoy.

Here are 3 electrical upgrades to consider this summer:

1. Entertainment and Recreational Lighting

Outdoor entertainment calls for additional lighting. You can add long-term light fixtures or create temporary lighting for tented events and more. What’s more entertaining than outdoor white LED light-wrapped trees? They’re not just for winter anymore; they can offer year-round beauty and appeal.

This year, consider hot tub and swimming pool light options for safety and beauty (or just plain fun!). Adding or relocating your pool light switch can offer more convenience and safety to summer fun.

Another consideration is your own, indoor entertainment. Valued collectibles and art pieces are even more enjoyable with the right presentation lights. Upgrade your home’s entrance with a stunning chandelier or add auto-on/off lights to bathrooms and closets.

2. Home Safety and Security

Safe passage during darkness is a reasonable expectation, and with ground illumination, you have it. Landscape lights can line your sidewalk, providing beauty and safety for visitors.

Two popular types of security electrical upgrades are security lights and motion sensors. You can program security lights to turn on at dusk and off at sunrise. Some security installations include video. Motion sensors can quickly activate security floodlights when a trespasser is detected. Pet-immune motion detectors can be programmed to ignore moving objects under 40 pounds.

Security lighting should be added to areas including:

Back/side yards
Blind spots around the house
Entrances to house/garage
Storage sheds

3. Whole-house Rewiring

Admit it. Your office looks like a tangled web of power strips and multi-outlet plug-ins. Every electronic in the house needs recharging every day, and if you buy that hybrid vehicle you want, the overload may put you over the top.

An electrical inspection will reveal problem areas and prioritize areas that need electrical upgrades. Advantages to whole-house rewiring include:

Additional home improvement/expansion options, including a garage or house expansion for rental or family
Fewer outages
Greater energy efficiency
Higher property value
Increased safety and reduced fire risks

…and any location on your property you feel would benefit from additional security.

TIO Electric Specializes in Arizona Electrical Upgrades

Perhaps you plan to sell this year or next. Or perhaps, like many of us, you’re stretching the capabilities of your home’s original wiring. Home safety and security are electrical upgrades that are a solid investment, but they also offer peace of mind.

Turn It On Electric pros are electrical technology specialists. We receive continuing education so we can offer you the latest smart electrical technology for your home. But we’re also focused on industry-best practices as well as customer care. Our electrical project isn’t complete until you’re happy.

Ask about summer electrical upgrades for your home. Contact TIO Electric.

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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!