Categories Electrical Wiring, Residential

Are GFCI Outlets Required in Older Homes?

GFCI Outlets

The first electrical power system was developed in 1882 and since 1897, our country has set standards for electrical safety. GFCI outlets have been one of the most valuable electrical safety developments in history.

GFCI outlets were used as early as the 1960s, primarily around swimming pools and home exteriors. It was 1971 when the National Electrical Code (NEC) specified GFCI outlets for new residential construction.

GFCI Outlets Requirements Change in 2023

New national regulations now require trained and licensed electricians for electrical service and maintenance. This means handyman licensing in Arizona may come under scrutiny.

It was always a recommendation (not a requirement) that older home wiring receives regular electrical inspection for ongoing safety. Previously, GFCI receptacles have been required in:

  • Basements/crawlspaces
  • Bathrooms
  • Garages
  • Laundry rooms
  • …and all areas where water is used

“In the new 2023 NEC, all 125- to 250-volt receptacles located inside a kitchen require GFCI protection,” says electrical instructor Jerry Durham. Section 210.8(A)(6) in the 2023 NEC requires ground-fault protection for all kitchen receptacles, regardless of their location or purpose.

The federal code now requires GFCI outlets in:

  • All areas with sinks
  • All plug- and cord-connected kitchen appliances
  • All receptacles installed under eaves/roofs
  • Areas in which HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) and refrigeration equipment are installed
  • Boathouses/boat hoists
  • Clothes dryers
  • Dishwashers
  • Home/outdoor – At least one
  • Kitchen counter-mounted appliances including:
    • Electric ranges/skillets
    • Microwaves/microwave ovens
    • Wall-mounted ovens
  • Kitchen countertops

Older Homes May Need Rewiring

Prior to 2023, GFCI outlet upgrades were recommended for older homes. They were not legally required even though 68% of house fires are caused by electrical problems. If your home is more than 20 years old, it may be at risk for fire damage. Schedule an electrical inspection to determine if areas of your home need professional electrical service.

5 Top Causes of Electrical Fires in Older Homes

Running electrical cords under area rugs or carpeting is very dangerous and puts your home at high risk for fire. Appliances with frayed cords can ignite carpeting as well as curtains and floors.

The top five causes of older-home residential fires include:

  1. Outlets – Outdated electrical outlets and older appliances are the #1 cause of residential electrical fires.
  2. Light fixtures – Using the wrong wattage bulbs in lamps and light fixtures is the second most common cause of fires in homes. And yes, it’s romantic, but don’t put a handkerchief or other flammable materials atop a lampshade.
  3. Extension cords – Extension cords are a temporary fix, not a permanent solution. Daily-use appliances and electronics should be directly plugged into a wall outlet.
  4. Space heaters – This portable solution to a cold snap is fine if the appliance is operated and positioned safely. Space heaters should be at least 3´ away from all bedding, curtains, and furniture.
  5. Wiring – Today’s use of electronics is usually more than a good old house can manage. Outdated wiring in older homes is a leading fire hazard. Replacing electrical wiring to accommodate computers, gaming devices, wide-screen televisions, etc. increases safety from fire.

GFCI Outlet Upgrades in Arizona

An electrical inspection is an affordable way to determine if your electrical system is functioning safely. About twenty percent of Phoenix homes have older wiring that should be inspected. And in some areas of Maricopa County, 100% of the homes were built before or during the 1970s.

GFCI outlets have a lifespan. Even if your older home has GFCI outlets in place, they should be replaced after 15 years. Some show signs of problems after only five years of use. If you’re planning to invest or already live in a beautiful older home, it’s well worth the peace of mind to ensure its protection from fire.

Turn It On Electric specializes in electrical maintenance for older homes. Let’s prioritize your GFCI outlets and wiring this year. Contact TIO Electric to learn more.

Author Chad
Categories Residential

Why Are My Lights Buzzing?

lights buzzing

If you have a light buzz, it doesn’t mean you had too many martinis. Some lights make a humming noise to alert you there’s a problem. If you have lights buzzing, you need to take action.

Fixtures’ Lights Buzzing

If lights buzzing is an issue with fixtures in your home or office, there’s no need to evacuate the building. But you do need to fix it. Buzzing or flickering lights can often indicate you need an electrical inspection.

The types of light bulbs more likely to hum or buzz are:

  • CFL – Compact fluorescent lightbulbs
  • Fluorescent
  • Incandescent – Creates light by heating a filament
  • LED – Light-emitting diodes

CFL

Compact fluorescent lightbulbs are an energy-saving solution to fixtures requiring incandescent bulbs. You get the same amount of light for about 10 times longer using half the electricity.

CFLs are often spiral-shaped and connected to a screw-in ballast/base. (Ballasts regulate the amount of voltage the light fixture receives.) Buzzing sounds are usually coming from the ballast. If your CFL light is in a dimmer-switch socket, remove and replace it.

Fluorescent

Fluorescent lightbulb buzzing is normal when your ear is close to the fixture. If you can hear the noise across the room, there’s a problem. Make sure the tube is properly mounted and secure.

The problem could be caused by:

  • The diffuser may need to be reinstalled.
  • The fixture’s housing may be broken or bent and should be replaced.
  • The old ballast needs replacement. Ballast-free LED tubes are a good idea but require minor, professional rewiring.

Incandescent

Few incandescent lightbulbs remain in circulation because there’s a ban on manufacturing and importing them. But it’s not illegal to use them. When you hear incandescent lights buzzing, there are most likely problems with the filaments. And if a buzzing incandescent bulb is in a dimmer-switch socket, remove and replace it.

LED

LED lights buzzing occurs when older dimmer switches cannot accommodate LED lightbulbs. The incompatibility might be resolved by another type of lightbulb, but your home needs to be LED-compatible anyway. The solution may be minor rewiring by a licensed electrician.

Your electrician will install a compatible dimmer switch:

  • C.L – CFL/LED
  • ELV – Electronic low frequency
  • LED+ – Maximum-performance LED dimmers

When Electrical Outlets Make Noise

Never ignore any electrical outlet that makes buzzing or popping noises. Stop using it and immediately contact your local electrician. No matter what the problem is, it’s caused by an electrical malfunction. Electrical outlet repair is never a DIY (do-it-yourself) job because of the hazards.

Common causes of electrical outlet noises are:

  • Breaker – If you’re sending too much or too little voltage to outlets, the imbalance can cause a buzzing sound. This fix usually involves replacing your breaker box.
  • Polarity – If you bought your home from a previous owner that effected DIY electrical fixes (or if the original electrical installations were cheap/shabby workmanship), wiring may not be properly connected. This can cause electricity to flow in the wrong direction. The buzzing noise may be louder when an appliance is plugged into the outlet.
  • Wiring – Old or frayed wiring connections may be loose. The “buzzing” sound is actually the vibration of loose wires. Seasonal weather changes can also cause components to expand/contract and cause loose wiring.

Trust TIO Electric

If any electrical component, outlet, light fixture, etc. makes noise, smells like burning wires, or shows signs of overheating, please call us immediately. If it is not an emergency, you can trust us to tell you what to do to protect your home and family.

Business longevity creates customer trust. Turn It On Electric has been Central Arizona’s preferred licensed electrical contractor for over 25 years. We are eager to earn your trust.

Integrity, community involvement, and industry-best workmanship are how we will keep your trust for decades to come. For electrical solutions and ideas that will work with your lifestyle and budget, contact TIO Electric.

Author Chad
Categories Electric Bill, Residential

Energy Consumption: Which Appliances Use the Most Electricity?

Energy Consumption

You use a blender, curling iron, toaster, and other appliances every morning. They remain conveniently plugged-in, and these idle appliances are called “energy vampires.” They’re using energy – standby power – and can account for as much as 10% of your home’s energy consumption.

Appliances & Energy Consumption

Electricity is measured in watts. A kilowatt (kWh) is 1,000 units of watt-power. Some appliances use more electricity than others. Your smoothie blender, for example, may use 300* watts but ice-crushing, full-powered blenders can use more than 1,000. 

Savvy homeowners unplug their energy vampires. It doesn’t make that much difference; maybe $100/year at the most, but it’s the right thing to do and something our kids need to learn about. Another energy-saving tip is to look for the ENERGY STAR® certification when purchasing electronic products.

5 Biggest Electricity-Using Appliances

Living “off the grid” can be interesting; even exciting, but most of us prefer traditional lifestyles. Still, we want to save energy.

You can’t disconnect your refrigerator, most light fixtures, and other conveniences that enhance your quality of life at home and work. But when appliances and electrical fixtures operate at maximum efficiency and their usage is managed, you save energy and money.

Here are the five appliances that use the most electricity (in order of usage) and ways to reduce their energy consumption:

1. HVAC

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems use the most electricity; about 46% of your total energy consumption. You can save energy and reduce monthly bills if you:

  • “Dress to weather” indoors by wearing lighter clothing in summer and heavier in winter.
  • Get furnace maintenance every fall and air conditioning service every spring.
  • Keep floor vents and the area around the HVAC unit uncluttered and clean.
  • Replace HVAC filters often.
  • Stop running the AC 24/7; turn it on during the hottest daytime hours and at night for cool comfort.
  • Use ceiling fans.
  • Utilize natural sunlight for warmth and curtains to cool-down rooms.

2. Water Heater

Water heaters average 405 kWh/month.

  • Insulate hot water pipes; and consider insulating your water heater.
  • Lower the water heater temperature when on vacation.
  • Set the heating temperature to 120°F or lower.
  • Shower and faucet aerators reduce water use.
  • Shower instead of bathing.
  • Solar water heaters can save 50%-80%.

3. Large Appliances

Refrigerators use 162 kWh/month.

  • Don’t overpack.
  • Dust/clean behind the unit clean for better airflow.
  • Put frequently accessed foods near the door(s).
  • Replace older refrigerators with energy-efficient models.
  • Use the manufacturer’s recommended temperature settings.

Washers and dryers account for 5% of your home’s total energy consumption.

  • Clean the lint trap after every dryer use.
  • Use cold water.
  • Use drying racks; hanger-dry when possible.
  • Wash full loads only.

Electric ovens and stoves add enough heat to increase your AC load. They use 2,500 watts and 1,500 watts when used 1 hour/day at medium-high heat, respectively.

  • Turn off burners (and sometimes the oven if not cooking meat) before food is done and allow residual heat to finish cooking.
  • Use crockpots, microwaves, electric skillets, etc. when possible.

Dishwashers also add heat to your home.

  • Pre-wash better so you can use shorter cycles.
  • Turn off heated dry.
  • Wash during cooler hours.
  • Wash only full loads

4. Lights

Natural light is always the best option because electric lighting accounts for a significant amount of energy use.

  • Install motion-detecting security lights rather than all-night-on outdoor lights.
  • Put outdoor/indoor lighting on timers.
  • Turn the lights off when you leave rooms.
  • Use LED bulbs and holiday lights.

5. Electronic Media

Families watch as much as 5 hours of television/day and play video games six hours/week. Those devices alone can use 55kWh/month.

  • Consider increasing the family’s reading and board activities.
  • Deactivate quick-start settings.
  • Don’t use standby mode.
  • Reduce screen brightness.
  • Turn it off when not in use.

2023 Electrical Upgrades For Central Arizona

Are you considering landscape lighting or home remodeling this year? Before you tackle any renovation project, request a free estimate for energy-efficient electrical upgrades­­. Safety requirements for smoke detectors were also upgraded in 2022, so you may want a whole-house smoke detector inspection/replacement.

Turn It On Electric is the Phoenix-area licensed electrical contractor for homeowners and homebuilders. To learn more about home electrical upgrades and energy efficiency, contact TIO Electric.
___
*All numbers are estimates.

Author Chad
Categories Electrical Wiring, Residential, Safety

What Is an Electrical Short?

electrical short

An electrical circuit is the flow of electricity that loops from your circuit breaker/panel box through your home and back again. That circular route is the circuit. An electrical short is a malfunction that is often called a “short circuit.”

An electrical short occurs when a wire carrying a live or “hot” current contacts a neutral wire. The live current jumps – arcs – from the live wire to the neutral wire. The electrical flow then takes the shortest, least resistant path to the ground. That path can be through flammable materials or animals and people. Anything in its way can receive a shock, catch fire, or be damaged by a small explosion.

Electrical shorts can cause:

  • Electrocutions
  • Fires
  • Shocks

What Causes an Electrical Short Circuit?

Just as with your body’s blood flow, when your electrical circulation is interrupted it’s a problem that needs immediate professional attention. There are several reasons why your home or commercial property can experience a short circuit, but basically, there are 2 types of electrical short circuits:

  • Ground fault – This occurs when a plugged-in or hot wire touches a grounded:
    • Appliance
    • Bare ground wire
    • Breaker box
    • Device
    • Outlet
    • …or anything using the electrical circuit
  • Normal – Normal short circuits occur when a hot wire touches a neutral wire. “normal” electrical short circuits can be caused by:
  • Electrical surges
  • Exposed wiring damages
    • Nail/screw punctures
    • Rodents chewing-through
    • Water/fluids contact wiring
  • Loose wires in circuit breaker box
  • Sheathing/wire wrap erodes – (The strong, non-conductive material insulating electrical wiring is usually PVC/polyethylene, which shouldn’t but can deteriorate.)
  • Worn-out/damaged electrical system components
    • Appliances
    • Lights
    • Outlets
    • Switches

Signs You Have an Electrical Short

The obvious sign you have a short circuit is when your breaker keeps tripping. If it’s accompanied by sparks, a zapping or sizzling sound, or even smoke, you have a dangerous electrical short circuit. If you touch a device or plug-in and get a small shock or burn, that indicates a serious problem you shouldn’t ignore.

Perhaps you had a brief tripping, reset the breaker, and carried on. Hours or days later, you notice that familiar, metallic-burning smell of melted electronics and plastic. That’s another clue you have a dangerous electrical short.

The important thing to know is electrical shorts are dangerous. You need to contact your local, licensed electrician immediately.

How To Prevent Short Circuits

Homeowners should regularly inspect outlets, bulb screw-ins, and appliance plugs for signs of age or damage. Also, check appliance electrical cords for signs of wear and tear. The circuit box area should be kept clean and it should also be easily accessible (not blocked by boxes, clutter, etc.) The best way to safeguard your home and prevent short circuits is professional electrical maintenance.

Safe, efficient electrical systems are as important to your home or office as heating and cooling or plumbing. That’s why we recommend electrical maintenance inspections to prevent electrical problems and protect your property.

TIO Electric is the Arizona Valley and Phoenix-area Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-certified electrical contractor. As LEEDS-certified electricians, during an electrical checkup, we will identify ways you can save energy and money while maintaining electrical safety and functionality. We’ll also check your electrical system’s safety and compliance with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidelines.

During a maintenance visit, we will also:

  • Check HVAC electrical connections (we cannot inspect/repair HVAC systems.)
  • Ensure cables are secure/undamaged
  • Examine electrical components and:
    • Circuit overload potential
    • Damaged insulation
    • Grounding
    • Moisture near electrical components
    • Smoke detectors
    • Unsafe usage of extension cords
  • Inspect whole-house generator

We prioritize safety, and annual electrical checkups can prevent electrical problems. However, Turn It On Electric pros are also knowledgeable interior/exterior lighting design and renovation consultants. Ask us about electrical upgrades for your home or business.

We know you have choices. Our customer care and industry-best workmanship are why Phoenix communities choose TIO Electric. If you have questions about electrical short circuits, contact TIO Electric.

Author Chad
Categories Electrical Wiring, Residential

5 FAQs About GFCI Issues

GFCI Issues

There are many quotes about “anything worth having” that imply good things may come with challenges. We think ground fault circuit interrupters are one of the most wonderful inventions since electricity. There are a few GFCI issues, but none of them override the life-saving benefits of GFCI outlets and breakers.

Five of the frequently asked questions we receive about GFCI issues are:

Q: Can I plug anything and everything into GFCI wall outlets?
A: 15-amp GFCI outlets support three-prong plug-ins. They should be used anywhere appliances may be exposed to water: bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, garages, etc. 

Your home’s largest appliance is probably the HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) unit. Its receptacle will likely be 125-volt, single-phase, and 20- or 15-amp. Refrigerators/freezers and sump pumps shouldn’t be plugged into some GFCI outlets because the wiring may be “daisy-chained.” This means several outlets may be connected. Your local Phoenix electrician will explain which outlets require GFCI protection.
Frequent tripping (often called “nuisance tripping”) can occur if GFCI outlets support:

  • 100´ or longer circuits
  • Electric motors that are permanently installed
  • Fluorescent/electric-discharge lights/fixtures

Q: Is there a major difference between AFCIs and GFCIs?
A: Arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) were once used in properties where wiring might be unsafe. They provide added protection against fire. In 1999, they became mandatory in all homes.

GFCIs offer fire protection but also prevent or minimize the risks of electrical shocks. Some rooms – kitchens and laundry rooms – must have dual-function AFCI/GFCI receptacles for maximum protection.

Q: What causes GFCI tripping?
A: GFCI tripping is a quick disconnect of electricity. Some of the common causes of GFCI tripping can include:

  • Circuit length too long to protect the number of plugged-in/operating appliances/equipment
  • Defective appliance
  • GFCI defects
  • Improper wiring
  • Moisture in the area or wet wires
  • Too many appliances operating at the same time

Q: Will a surge protector stop GFCI tripping?
A: Actually, it can make it worse. The plugged-in surge protector can create an imbalance in electrical flow. The GFCI will respond by shutting down (tripping).

Q: Why do I need a licensed electrician for GFCI issues?
A: Since 1897, the National Electrical Code (NEC) has set the standards for electrical safety. It’s a U.S.A.-based single set of electrical installation requirements for electricians, architects, electrical product manufacturers, and safety organizations. The NEC is not a federal law. It is a federal code that has set electrical safety standards for many countries outside the U.S.
One GFCI issue we face in Arizona is that the NEC has been adopted by our state (and all U.S. states) but is not 100% enforced within our state. That has led to electrical work that may not meet code requirements in some areas.


Licensed electricians know national, state, and local electrical standards for public and private properties. Licensed, professional electricians use industry-best practices. They will take responsibility for and guarantee their workmanship.

Ask Questions About Electrical, GFCI Issues

Knowledge helps you make informed decisions. The internet can provide general information for homeowner topics. But when you have electrical questions about your property and lifestyle, you need customized answers.

Forbes says “reskilling the energy workforce” is now a priority. A data-driven electrical environment will save money and energy. Therefore, it’s important for your electrician to study and be able to speak knowledgeably about trending technology upgrades. Turn It On Electric technicians receive ongoing training and education so you have more and better options.

Your safety is our priority. Never hesitate to ask us about all things electrical, especially GFCI issues. We’ll partner with you to determine the best energy solutions for your home and family. Contact TIO Electric to learn more.

Author Chad
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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!
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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.
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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.
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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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