Safety – Page 9 – Turn It On Electric

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.

Outdoor, Residential, Safety

Are Ring Doorbells Really Worth It?

24May2020

This year, you’ve likely personalized several standard security options (cellphone password plus thumbprint authentication, for example). Your financial service providers have also personalized data protection. And now, ring doorbells are being replaced by more personal technology: video identification.

Disadvantages of Traditional Doorbells

In Arizona, one property crime occurs about every 3 minutes. Burglary ranks as the number-one crime committed here. Video doorbells are “smart home” technology, but they also serve as security cameras.

Traditional ring doorbells:

Put you at risk. You must get near the door to verify the identity of your visitor or delivery person.
Put your home at risk. You must open the door to address the need.
Puts your possessions and valuables at risk. When you don’t respond to the doorbell, it verifies the house is empty. Thieves will take advantage of your absence.

Advantages of Video Doorbells

Video doorbells can be the “eyes” and “ears” of home security. Their capabilities and technology alone are worth the investment. Video doorbells increase your property value. They need professional installation, but once in place, the mechanics are easy to implement.

Buzzer
High-definition 1080p camera
Smartphone connectivity
Two-way audio

You can always view who is at your door using live video. You can talk using the audio function. The two-way audio function also works from your cellphone, so if you’re not home, the visitor or delivery person won’t know.

Video doorbells put a safe distance between you and your unknown visitor. This is something that will prove beneficial beyond 2020.

Images are amazingly clear.
Infrared night vision allows you to see who’s outside, 24/7.
Suspicious activity can be recorded.
You can photograph who’s on your doorstep.
Wifi capabilities are available in most models.

Hardwire vs. Battery Video Doorbells

Some video doorbell installation kits come with a rechargeable battery. It will need to be recharged regularly, depending on its battery life. In bad weather, battery-powered video doorbells have difficulty holding a charge and can fail completely.

If your video doorbell is hardwired, there is no battery to worry about. An electronic video doorbell uses between 8-24 volts AC (alternating current).

The Best of 2020

“If you’re looking for the best video doorbell*, chances are it’s among those we’ve tested,” said CNET. This year you might consider replacing your ring doorbell with a . . . Ring doorbell.

Saving space and competitive pricing make the Ring Video Doorbell Pro a good fit for most doorframes and budgets. Doorbells average 7.6 centimeters and you wouldn’t think size matters that much.

But just slightly larger units can lead to rewiring, re-routing wiring, or worse – rerouting through bricks or siding. A few centimeters can make a big difference. Ring Doorbell Pro is a compact 4.7cm and transmits in terrific 1080p HD resolution.

The Ring Doorbell alerts you even when visitors don’t ring the doorbell and includes:

Wide-angle video shows people from head to toe
Continuous recording for up to 30 days
Advanced Motion Detection
Two way talk with noise cancellation
1080p HD Video
Video history for 60 days (with subscription)
Live View
Near motion zone motion capability

Knock, Knock! Who’s There?

Turn It On Electric is open for business.

Now’s a good time to replace your ring doorbell with the kind of protective technology you need. Turn It On Electric continues to install security lights and motion detection lighting. We believe video doorbells address additional security solutions for Phoenix homes. They can serve you well for many years.

Turn It On Electric is available for all your home automation needs, including smart doorbells. We’re your Phoenix-area electricians. Call or email us to learn more.

Electrical Wiring, Residential, Safety

Are you ready to work from home?

6May2020

Working at home is convenient and cost-effective. You may be prepared to work from home, but is your home ready for full-time employment?

With more families working from home, they often find they need more computers to support their job and their kid\’s schoolwork. This adds up to a lot of data requirements. Especially when you include streaming tv and game consoles. Without the right infrastructure in your home, you could feel like you\’re back on dialup.

What Do You Need to Work from Home?

People are working from home so much more today and many families are now homeschooling their kids.

Perhaps videoconferencing what was once face-to-face appointments and meetings will become the norm. And now we\’re using technology to stay in touch with loved ones and connect with business associates.

If you weren’t familiar with “streaming,” this might be a good opportunity to learn. You’re going to need some electrical upgrades to run an efficient home office or homeschool.

You’ll need to consider:

Better lighting
Child-proofing
Computer
Furniture/office equipment (File cabinet, desk, etc.)
High-speed internet
Monitors
Network router
Personal server/backup drive
Printer/scanner
Software
Surge protector
Telephone/VoIP
UPS (uninterruptible power supply)

Create an Efficient Work Environment

Bob Vila™ says to configure your homeschool or home office properties before you tackle electrical work. Know what you want and get the technological components in-place in the room(s) you plan to utilize. Will conference calls and online classes be in the same room with your office or a separate location?

Vila recommends “structured wiring.” Structured wiring is a data-delivery system. It can accommodate phone/fax, broadband internet, and networking (video/television) technologies. The system requires three segments:

Cables/wiring inside your house
Hardware for connections/connectivity
Panel/module for outside service to enter your home

Get Ready, Set, and Turn It On to ‘Go to Work’

Once you know what you need and where it should go, contact your LEED-certified local electrician to schedule your “go-live” day. “The data capacity of copper wire is designated by category and how the wires are twisted,” explains Vila. “The main difference between the wiring designations is the transmission frequency (bandwidth/megahertz).”

This installation shouldn’t involve knocking down walls. Wiring and cables can be strung behind and in-between walls. What you don’t want is a tangle of extension cords and cabling.

DIY (do-it-yourself) will be unattractive and won’t work as well. It’s dangerous to your family and property, too. Your insurance company may reject any damage claims resulting from your attempt to rewire a room.

Comfort, Convenience, Safety at Home

Working at home is a convenience for many. You can wear your sweats to work while enjoying a comfortable, safe workspace. The electrical upgrades you make during this time will increase your home’s value and lower energy bills at the same time.

The Turn It On Electric pros want to protect your safety and help you maintain good health while working at home. Your home circuitry can manage the additional workload with proper installation.

Today, many are considering career changes. If you’d like to learn more about working as a member of our team, we’d like to hear from you. Contact us if you have any questions.

Ceiling Fans, Maintenance, Residential, Safety

Can bathroom fans keep you from getting sick?

15Apr2020

Bathroom fans aren’t just for odors. Their primary purpose is to decrease moisture in bathrooms. New sensors and timers can keep your rooms’ humidity at a level that controls bacteria, mildew, mold, and viruses.

How Traditional Bathroom Fans Work

Bathroom exhaust systems have a ceiling fan connected to ductwork that leads to outside ventilation. Older bathroom fans may be noisy – in fact, if they’re too quiet they probably aren’t working.

Most bathroom fans are controlled by a wall switch. Usually, you turn it on as you exit the bathroom and forget to turn it off until much later. The exhaust fan should be on for about 20 minutes following toilet or shower use. If you leave it on too long, ball bearings inside can lock up which could cause the motor to overheat. That’s a fire hazard you want to avoid.

Bathroom Fans Can Reduce Bacterial Growth

There are ways to control bacterial levels in your bathroom. In addition to frequent cleanings, close the toilet lid when you flush. If your toilet is in the same room as your sink, store your toothbrushes in a cabinet. Exhaust fans can’t completely eliminate moisture-related bacteria.

Your bathroom fan may not be working if you have:

Ceiling/wall moisture stains
Frequent frost on windows
Metal corrosion
Mold
Peeling wallpaper/paint
“Uncomfortable,” heavy air quality

Humidity sensors not only “clean-up” your air; they also save money by lowering energy use. People with frequent allergies or illnesses are likely candidates for home humidity sensors.

Humidity Sensors: How They Work

The sensor unit is a “hygrometer.” It measures and reports air temperature and moisture levels. Those measurement ratios are called “relative humidity” and impact your comfort level.

Capacitive sensors use metal oxide electrical components.
Resistive sensors use salts and ions to measure electrical resistance and reactance.
Thermal sensors conduct electricity using dry nitrogen and ambient air (the ratio of nitrogen to oxygen) sensors.

Any electrical appliance installation should be managed by your local electrical contractor. It’s not worth the risk of fire or damage and can void your insurance policy. Plus, installing a basic bathroom fan is a time-consuming and difficult job. (Don’t try this at home.)

Installing a humidity sensor is assuredly not a DIY (do-it-yourself) job. They must be calibrated on a 9-point curve system. A professional must adjust the voltage deviation.

Humidity sensors should have an accurate rise time and fall time for voltage output. This is known as “response time.” A DIY bathroom fan installation could be essentially worthless if the sensor is out of sync and you don’t know it.

3 Seasons for Allergies; 13 Weeks for Flu

We only have 4 seasons and three of them are high in allergens. This year, the flu season (normally 13 weeks) is taking longer to dissipate. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is important to keeping allergens at bay and controlling the transmission of viruses.

“It’s difficult to predict how (the flu virus) will behave,” says LiveScience, “But even if you can’t predict what will happen, you can prepare for it.” There are

IAQ Important to Health and Comfort

Good indoor air quality and clean water top the list of property owner requirements. Homeowners and commercial businesses want comfortable, clean air. Replacing your bathroom fam with a humidity-sensing appliance can be your ticket to better health, too.

Now is a good time to schedule that home improvement project you’ve been putting off! If you have questions about any type of electrical installation, please contact the professionals at Turn It On 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!