Categories Residential

New Year, New Home: Electrical Upgrades for 2024

As we usher in 2024, it’s not just a time for personal resolutions but also for renewing and upgrading our living spaces. One crucial aspect often overlooked is the electrical system of our homes. At Turn It On Electric, we believe that the New Year is the perfect opportunity to give your home’s electrical system the attention it deserves. Upgrading your electrical system is not just about enhancing functionality; it’s a significant step towards ensuring safety and improving efficiency.

Why Upgrade Your Electrical System?

Enhanced Safety:

Outdated or deteriorating electrical systems are a primary cause of home fires. Upgrades can mitigate risks by replacing old wiring, updating overloaded circuits, and installing modern circuit breakers that are more sensitive and reliable.

Energy Efficiency:

Modern electrical systems and components are designed for energy efficiency. Upgrades like LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, and smart home systems can lead to substantial savings on your energy bills.

Increased Home Value:

Investing in your home’s electrical system can increase its market value. A modern, safe, and efficient electrical system is a significant selling point in today’s real estate market.

Adaptation to Modern Needs:

With the increase in home automation technologies and smart devices, modern households require more robust electrical systems to handle increased loads and technological demands.

Starting the Year with an Electrical System Checkup

A comprehensive electrical checkup by a licensed professional is the best way to start. This inspection includes:

  • Assessing the condition of wiring, outlets, and switches.
  • Testing circuit breakers and electrical panels for efficiency and safety.
  • Evaluating the overall load capacity and identifying any potential overload issues.
  • Inspecting outdoor electrical systems, including security lighting and landscape wiring.

Key Upgrades to Consider in 2024

Panel Upgrade:

If your home still operates with an older electrical panel, upgrading to a new, higher-capacity panel is crucial to handle modern electrical demands safely.

Smart Home Automation:

Embrace technology with smart home upgrades. Smart thermostats, lighting, and security systems offer not only convenience but also energy savings.

Surge Protection:

Whole-home surge protectors safeguard your electronics and appliances from voltage spikes, common in storm-prone areas or with unstable power grids.

Energy-Efficient Lighting:

Transition to LED lighting for better energy efficiency and longer lifespan than traditional lighting options.

Electrical Outlets:

Upgrading to GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets in areas prone to moisture, like kitchens and bathrooms, enhances safety.

The New Year is an opportunity for a fresh start, and what better way to begin than by ensuring the heart of your home’s functionality – the electrical system – is updated, efficient, and safe. Upgrading your home’s electrical system is an investment in peace of mind, safety, and the future.

Ready to make your home safer and more efficient in 2024? Contact Turn It On Electric for a professional consultation and start the New Year on the right note. We’re committed to helping homeowners make the best choices for their electrical needs.

Categories Residential

Smart Home Gift Ideas for the Holidays

The holiday season is upon us and it’s the perfect time to think about giving your home a smart upgrade. Smart home devices not only make excellent gifts but also bring convenience, efficiency, and enhanced security to your living space. At Turn It On Electric, we understand the ins and outs of smart home technology and are here to guide you through the best upgrades available.

Smart Thermostats

With our unique climate, a smart thermostat is a must-have. It learns your schedule and adjusts the temperature accordingly, saving energy and money. Nest and Ecobee are popular choices that offer remote control via smartphones.

Smart Lighting Solutions

LED smart bulbs, like those from Philips Hue or LIFX, can change the ambiance of your home with the touch of an app. They are energy-efficient and can be programmed to turn on and off, adjusting to your daily routines.

Smart Security Systems

Upgrade your home’s security with smart cameras, doorbells, and locks. Brands like Ring and Arlo offer products that let you monitor your home remotely, giving peace of mind while you’re away enjoying the holiday festivities.

Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Safety is paramount. Smart detectors provide real-time alerts to your phone, even when you’re not at home. Consider the Google Nest Protect, which also tests itself automatically and lasts up to a decade.

Smart Irrigation Systems

In the desert climate, smart irrigation systems like Rachio can help manage your watering schedule efficiently, conserving water while keeping your landscape thriving.

Smart home technology is more than just a holiday gift; it’s an investment in your home’s future. With these upgrades, you can enjoy a more comfortable, secure, and efficient home. If you need assistance in selecting or installing the perfect smart home gifts this holiday season, Turn It On Electric is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help transform your home into a smart home.

Categories Residential

The Importance of Regular Electrical Inspections

With the modern home relying increasingly on electrical gadgets, systems, and appliances, ensuring the safety and functionality of your electrical system has never been more critical. While we often take electricity for granted, it’s essential to remember that our electrical systems need maintenance, just like any other home infrastructure.

Why Are Electrical Inspections So Essential?

Safety: The foremost reason for regular inspections is safety. Faulty wiring and outdated systems can lead to electrical fires, putting your family and property at risk. Regular checks can identify these issues before they become hazardous.

Up-to-Date Systems: Technology and safety standards evolve. Older homes, in particular, might have systems that are now considered outdated or even unsafe. An inspection can highlight areas where upgrades are beneficial or necessary.

Efficiency: An efficient electrical system isn’t just about safety—it’s also about savings. Outdated or faulty systems can lead to higher energy bills. By identifying and rectifying these issues, you could enjoy noticeable savings in the long run.

What Do Electrical Inspections Entail?

A comprehensive inspection usually includes:

  • Checking for outdated or deteriorated wiring.
  • Ensuring all electrical components meet current safety standards.
  • Testing safety switches and power points.
  • Examining the switchboard and ensuring its safety and functionality.
  • Identifying any DIY electrical work (which might not meet current standards).

When Should You Schedule an Electrical Inspection?

While every home is unique, here are some general guidelines:

After a Major Storm: If your area has been hit by a significant storm or natural disaster, it’s a good idea to have your system checked, especially if there were power outages or surges.

When Buying a Home: Before sealing the deal, ensure the home’s electrical system is in top shape. It could save you from unexpected expenses later on.

Older Homes: If your house is over 25 years old and hasn’t had an inspection recently, it’s time to schedule one. Older systems might not be equipped to handle today’s electrical demands.

Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips: This could indicate an overloaded system or another underlying issue.

Before a Major Renovation: Before adding significant electrical loads, such as a home addition or a major appliance, it’s a good idea to ensure your system can handle it.

At Turn It On Electric, we believe in proactive measures to ensure the safety and efficiency of your home’s electrical system. With regular electrical inspections, you can enjoy peace of mind, reduced energy bills, and a safer home environment.

If you have questions or concerns about your home’s electrical system or want to schedule an inspection, don’t hesitate to contact Turn It On Electric of the Greater Phoenix area. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities.

Categories Residential

The Essential Defense: Why Surge Protectors Matter for Your Home

Electricity is the silent partner in our homes, working behind the scenes to energize our appliances and keep our lives running smoothly. But when an unexpected power surge occurs, that quiet ally can become a formidable foe, causing significant damage to our electrical devices. One solution rises above the rest: a surge protector. At Turn It On Electric, we’re here to unpack the benefits of this unsung hero of home safety.

Unpacking Power Surges

Imagine an abrupt, intense wave of electrical energy jolting through your home’s circuits – that’s a power surge. They can stem from various causes, such as lightning, disruptions in the power grid, or high-energy devices cycling on and off in your home. Though small surges may go unnoticed, the intense ones can result in considerable damage to your electronics, or in extreme cases, even lead to electrical fires.

The Shield of Surge Protectors

Surge protectors are the guardians of your electrical devices, warding off potential power surges. They work by channeling any extra voltage safely into the ground, allowing only the necessary electricity to reach your devices. By doing so, they protect your appliances, potentially extending their lifespan and saving you from costly replacements.

Embracing Whole-Home Surge Protection

You might be familiar with the portable surge protectors that connect to wall outlets, offering defense for specific appliances. However, there’s an even more robust solution – whole-home surge protectors. These are installed directly into your home’s electrical service panel and provide protection to all your home’s electrical systems. This includes hardwired appliances, like HVAC systems, which can’t be safeguarded by portable models.

The Impacts: Beyond Protection

When you invest in a whole-home surge protector, you are investing in more than just the safety of your electronics. Let’s delve into the broader implications:

All-around Security: Whole-home surge protectors provide an umbrella of safety, safeguarding all your electronic devices – from your refrigerator to your laptop.

Economic Advantage: By preventing potential damage to your appliances, you dodge costly repair or replacement charges. It’s an investment today that prevents expenses tomorrow.

Assurance in Every Spark: The certainty that your home is defended against damaging power surges offers comfort and peace of mind.

The Turn It On Electric Promise

By partnering with Turn It On Electric, you’re not just choosing safety, you’re choosing a secure future. Get ahead of the game by scheduling an appointment with our seasoned technicians today. We’re committed to fortifying your home against the potential pitfalls of power surges. Remember, if it’s not right, we’re not done.

Categories Residential

Powering Through: Steps to Take When Part of Your Home Loses Electricity

Unexpected power loss in parts of your home can be alarming and inconvenient. It’s a situation that requires swift attention and understanding to restore your home to full functionality. At Turn It On Electric, we are committed to guiding you through these confusing moments. Here are key steps to follow when you find yourself in the dark:

Step 1: Check Your Breakers

Your circuit breakers are your first line of investigation. A tripped breaker could be the reason why only part of your home has lost power. To identify a tripped breaker, look for the switch that isn’t aligned with the others. If you find one, flip it fully off and then back on to restore power. Remember to always use caution when handling your electrical panel.

Step 2: Determine the Extent

Try to figure out which areas of your home are without power. Is it a single room, a specific area, or a collection of outlets? This will help diagnose the issue and can provide useful information if you need to call a professional.

Step 3: Assess Your Appliances

Check the devices and appliances in the affected areas. Are they working correctly, or do they seem to be causing the power outage? Sometimes, a faulty device can overload a circuit, causing the breaker to trip.

Step 4: Call for Backup

If the above steps don’t restore power, it’s time to call in the professionals. Persistent issues could indicate a more severe problem with your home’s electrical wiring or circuit breakers. Don’t attempt to fix these issues yourself, as it can be dangerous.

Time for Turn It On Electric

When your home is suffering from power loss, Turn It On Electric is ready to illuminate the situation. Our expert team is here to assess, troubleshoot, and resolve your electrical issues. We prioritize on-site inspections, believing in the importance of tailored, face-to-face service.

At Turn It On Electric, we bring light into the darkness, offering a guiding hand in your time of need. Don’t let power loss keep you in the shadows – CONTACT US TODAY, and let’s work together to power your home back to normal. We’re committed to your safety and satisfaction because at the end of the day, it’s not just about doing the job, it’s about doing it right.