Category Archives: Safety

Backyard spas provide Phoenix homeowners with a place to unwind while having fun. Since these spas require electricity for heat, lighting, and other features you should consider having a dedicated spa circuit installed. Learn more about this type of circuit, including why it serves as an important safety feature.

Purpose of a Dedicated Spa Circuit

Having a dedicated spa circuit means your backyard spa will have its own circuit drawing electricity. This helps distribute electricity safely while you use your spa. If you have too much electricity on one circuit it can trip the breaker. A dedicated spa circuit can lower the risk of an electrical overload and a potential fire.

Your home most likely has other dedicated circuits for major appliances, such as your stove, washer and dryer, refrigerator, and HVAC system. Adding another one for your spa is a job an electrician can handle.

Benefits of Having a Dedicated Spa Circuit

When you have a dedicated spa circuit installed it can reduce the risk of an electrical fire at your home. Breakers located on the outside of your home have a higher risk of wearing out due to the Phoenix area’s hot climate. If you don\’t have a separate circuit for your spa, your breaker can wear out much sooner from overloads and hot outdoor temperatures. When your breaker isn’t working, too much electricity from your spa can keep flowing and increase the risk of a fire.

Having a dedicated circuit for your spa provides you with peace of mind. You and your family can safely use your spa without having to worry about having a fire break out.

Spa Circuit Installation

Installing a spa circuit involves meeting certain electrical requirements. These circuits must be the right size in order to properly work. Circuits that are too small won’t be able to handle the electricity load, resulting in a breaker that trips frequently.

Spa circuits and wiring have to be installed in a safe location away from other power sources. The electrical system for your spa must be properly grounded to reduce the risk of electrical hazards.

Spa circuits should have a GFCI feature to lower the risk of electrical shocks. This feature shuts off power to the circuit when there is a difference in the flow of electricity running through it.

Avoid the DIY Route

It’s important to have an electrician install your dedicated spa circuit. This ensures your circuit meets all electrical safety requirements. Professionals make sure that your circuit is the exact size needed for safe operation. They can determine the safest location for your spa based on various factors, such as where other power sources are on your property.

If you want to add a dedicated spa circuit to your Phoenix home, contact Turn It On Electric. Our team can make sure it’s installed safely and correctly.

When you have an electrical wiring issue, handling it yourself might seem like a cost-effective and time-saving option. However, what initially seems like an \”easy\” task can quickly turn into a dangerous and expensive mess. Electrical work should be left to the highly qualified professionals.

Imagine spending a few weekends to rewire part of your home. You can probably find videos online to walk you through the process. After a trip or two to the home improvement store, you\’ll have everything you need to start your project. Are you confident in your skills when it comes to the safety of your family? Electrical mistakes can lead to shocks or even fire.

Even if you end up completing the wiring work, imagine your frustration when you go to sell your home and find out it isn\’t up to code. Electricity is a complex system best left to a professional for repairs and replacement.

Safety Concerns with DIY Electrical Wiring

Although some electrical work may seem like a simple project that you can do on your own with little risk, even replacing a light fixture can be hazardous. To properly complete the work, you need the right knowledge, skills, and tools. Otherwise, you run the risk of introducing a fire hazard into your home.

Other safety concerns include the risk of electrical shock. This can happen while you\’re working if you aren\’t sure which wires are live. Electrical shocks can occur after the work is complete, too. Tackling this type of project puts yourself, your family, and your home at serious risk. Avoid DIY wiring projects and enjoy the peace of mind you\’ll have knowing a trained professional is the only person touching your electrical system.

Electrical Codes

Did you know that you have to properly identify terminals when installing electrical wiring? Did you know neutral conductors can only be used for one branch circuit? These are just a couple of examples of electrical codes that you have to follow when you install new wiring.

The National Electrical Code has many specifics for compliant electrical installations. Instead of keeping track of all of these yourself let a professional handle it for you.

Circuit Overloads

When you aren’t familiar with electrical loads, handling wiring work can result in circuit overloads. Having too much voltage going through one circuit can cause the breaker to trip repeatedly. This can lead to an increased fire risk.

Professional electricians have the skills and knowledge to ensure no circuits are overloaded. Hiring someone from the start allows you to avoid having to hire an electrician later to correct your DIY work.

Problems Selling Your Home

You could run into delays when you\’re ready to sell your home if you did your own electrical wiring. Home inspectors might find that your home isn’t up to code. In this case, the sale probably can\’t finalize until a licensed electrician re-does the work. This can make it much harder for you to find willing buyers and sell at the price you want.

Improper Installation

When you improperly install your electrical wiring, you can run into problems that range from minor to severe. For example, lights might not come on when you turn the switch or outlets might not work. Even though a DIY fix may seem like a great way to save money, it can end up causing a lot of headaches if you don\’t know what you\’re doing. Plus, if you do the job wrong, you\’ll need to hire an electrician anyway.

Don’t risk electrical wiring hazards and other problems with a DIY fix. Contact the professionals at Turn It On Electric in Phoenix and let us take care of your wiring work and any other electrical needs.

Electricity is an incredible modern-day convenience. It helps power homes, keeps people comfortable, and powers appliances and electronics. However, there is a danger of shock when it comes to electricity which can result in injury or even death. If you\’ve ever wondered how to avoid electric shock at home or at work, here are a few tips.

Never Use a Power Tool Through a Wall

If you plan on doing a DIY renovation in your home, one of the best ways to avoid electric shock is by NOT using a power tool through a wall. It may be tempting to use an electric saw or drill to speed the process up, but keep in mind there could be a live wire on the other side. This can cause an electric shock. Investigate what\’s inside your walls before you make the first cut. If you aren\’t sure how, call the professionals.

Know Your Limits

Most people know very little when it comes to how electricity works. When it comes to electricity, ignorance is not bliss. If you aren\’t sure what you\’re doing, leave it to the professionals. An electrician has the experience to know what\’s possible with your home renovation.

Don\’t Mess with Plugs

If you have a three-pronged plug but your outlet only has two holes, you may feel tempted to improvise. Stop! The third prong grounds the electrical current. It should never be removed under any circumstances or you could get a severe electric shock.

Install Tamper Resistant Outlets

As soon as babies begin to crawl, parents frantically start babyproofing their house. Nobody wants their child to put their fingers or any other objects in the outlet. One way to help prevent electric shock is by installing tamper resistant outlets. These require two objects, the two prongs of a plug, to be inserted into the outlet simultaneously for the electrical power to flow. Like any babyproofing option, these aren\’t entirely \”shock-proof.\”

Wet Hands? Stay Away from Outlets

One of the most common reasons for electrical shock is people having wet or damp hands and then trying to plug or unplug an electronic device. This often happens in kitchens and bathrooms when people are in a hurry. However, failing to thoroughly dry your hands before reaching for your outlet could lead to danger.

Install GFCI Outlets in Your Home

GFCI outlets are a common safety measure to help avoid electric shock. The outlet can sense if a person\’s body starts to receive electricity and cuts off the power immediately. They are usually installed near sources of water, such as the kitchen or bathroom.

Hire an Electrician

If you are having issues with your electricity or want to upgrade some of your outlets, hiring an electrician is in your best interest. Our professionals can complete a full inspection of your home\’s electrical system. Improving safety measures can help reduce your chance of electric shock as well as reduce your risk of an electrical fire.

If you suspect a problem with electricity in your home or want to verify your electrical safety, contact Turn It On Electric.