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Why Summer Temperatures are So Hard on Phoenix Electrical Systems

19Jul2024

Phoenix, Arizona, is infamous for its extreme summer temperatures, often exceeding 100°F. While residents are accustomed to the heat, the impact of these high temperatures on electrical systems is a significant concern. Understanding why summer temps are so challenging for Phoenix’s electrical infrastructure is crucial for homeowners and businesses alike. This blog post will break down the reasons in simple terms, ensuring everyone can grasp the basics of electrical systems and their vulnerabilities.

The Basics of Electrical Systems

To understand why high temperatures, affect electrical systems, it’s essential to know a few basics:

Electricity Flow: Electricity flows through wires and circuits, powering everything from air conditioners to lights.
Conductors: Materials like copper and aluminum, which conduct electricity well, are used in wiring.
Insulation: Wires are covered in insulating materials to prevent electrical shorts and protect the wires.

How Heat Affects Electrical Components

Increased Electrical Load

During the summer, the demand for electricity spikes as air conditioners, fans, and refrigerators work overtime to keep homes and businesses cool. This increased load puts significant stress on electrical systems, leading to potential problems:

Overheating: When electrical systems are overloaded, wires and circuits can overheat. This is similar to how an overloaded car engine works harder and can overheat.
Increased Resistance: Heat increases the resistance in electrical conductors. Higher resistance means wires have to work harder to conduct electricity, generating more heat.

Degradation of Materials

High temperatures can degrade the materials used in electrical systems:

Insulation Breakdown: The insulating material covering wires can break down faster in extreme heat. When insulation degrades, it can lead to short circuits and electrical fires.
Metal Expansion: Metals used in wiring expand when heated. This expansion can loosen connections, causing poor electrical conductivity and potential hazards.

Impact on Equipment

Electrical equipment, such as air conditioners, transformers, and circuit breakers, is also vulnerable to heat:

Air Conditioners: These units have to work much harder to cool homes in extreme heat, leading to increased wear and tear and potential failures.
Transformers: These are critical components of the electrical grid. They step down the high voltage electricity from power plants to the lower voltage used in homes. High temperatures can cause transformers to overheat and fail.
Circuit Breakers: These safety devices can trip more frequently in high temperatures to prevent overheating and fires, disrupting the power supply.

Specific Challenges in Phoenix

Extreme and Prolonged Heat

Phoenix experiences some of the highest and most prolonged summer temperatures in the United States. This extreme heat puts a continuous strain on electrical systems, unlike in areas with milder climates where systems get a break between heat waves.

Dust and Debris

The desert environment contributes to dust and debris accumulation on electrical components:

Dust on Insulators: Dust can settle on insulators, reducing their effectiveness and potentially causing electrical arcing.
Cooling Systems: Dust can clog the cooling systems of electrical equipment, reducing their efficiency and leading to overheating.

Power Surges

With the increased use of air conditioners and other cooling devices, power surges become more common:

Voltage Fluctuations: As multiple devices turn on and off, the electrical load fluctuates, causing voltage spikes. These surges can damage sensitive electronics and appliances.

Preventative Measures

To mitigate the impact of high summer temperatures on electrical systems, several measures can be taken:

Regular Maintenance

Routine inspection and maintenance of electrical systems can identify and fix issues before they become serious problems:

Check Insulation: Regularly inspect the insulation on wires and cables for signs of wear and tear.
Clean Components: Keep electrical components clean and free of dust and debris.

Upgrade Systems

Upgrading outdated or undersized electrical systems can help handle the increased summer load more efficiently:

Install Surge Protectors: Surge protectors can safeguard appliances and electronics from voltage spikes.
Upgrade Wiring: Replacing old wiring with new, higher-capacity conductors can reduce overheating and improve efficiency.

Efficient Cooling

Improving the efficiency of cooling systems reduces the overall electrical load:

Energy-Efficient Appliances: Use energy-efficient air conditioners and fans to reduce electricity consumption.
Proper Ventilation: Ensure that electrical equipment has adequate ventilation to prevent overheating.

Conclusion

Understanding why summer temperatures are so hard on Phoenix electrical systems highlights the importance of proactive maintenance and upgrades. By taking preventive measures, homeowners and businesses can protect their electrical systems from the extreme heat, ensuring reliability and safety throughout the scorching summer months. Looking to get a free consultation? Contact Turn It On Electric today!

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Ensuring Electrical Safety During Your July 4th Celebrations

5Jul2024

July 4th is a time for celebration, bringing together families and friends for fireworks, barbecues, and outdoor festivities. While enjoying these activities, it is crucial to prioritize electrical safety to prevent accidents and ensure a happily memorable holiday. This blog provides comprehensive tips on how Phoenix residents can maintain electrical safety during their Independence Day celebrations.

Outdoor Lighting Safety
Outdoor lighting is essential for creating a festive atmosphere and ensuring visibility during evening celebrations. However, improper setup and use can lead to electrical hazards.

Safe Setup: Use weather-resistant outdoor lights and extension cords designed for outdoor use. Ensure all connections are secure and protected from moisture.
Avoid Overloading: Do not overload electrical outlets or extension cords. Use multiple circuits to distribute the electrical load evenly.
Inspection: Regularly inspect all lighting for damaged wires or plugs. Replace any faulty equipment immediately to prevent electrical shocks or fires.

Using Generators Safely
Generators are often used to power outdoor activities and provide backup power. Proper usage is vital to prevent accidents and ensure safe operation.

Proper Placement: Place generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from windows and doors to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
Safe Operation: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setup and operation. Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords to connect appliances.
Regular Maintenance: Ensure the generator is well-maintained and has sufficient fuel. Turn off and cool down the generator before refueling to avoid fire hazards.

Firework Safety and Electrical Precautions
Fireworks are a staple of July 4th celebrations, but they pose significant electrical risks if not handled properly.

Keep Away from Power Lines: Set off fireworks in open areas away from power lines, transformers, and other electrical equipment.
Storage and Handling: Store fireworks in a cool, dry place and follow all safety guidelines for handling and ignition.
Water Availability: Have water or a fire extinguisher readily available to extinguish any accidental fires caused by fireworks.

Protecting Your Home from Power Surges
The increased use of electrical devices during celebrations can lead to power surges, which can damage appliances and electronics.

Surge Protectors: Use whole-house surge protectors or individual surge protector power strips to safeguard your devices.
Unplug Unused Devices: Unplug appliances and electronics that are not in use to reduce the risk of power surges.
Inspect Electrical Panels: Ensure your home’s electrical panel is in good condition and capable of handling the increased load.

Managing an Increased Electrical Load
Celebrations often involve multiple electrical devices, which can strain your home’s electrical system if not managed properly.

Distribute Load: Use different circuits to distribute the electrical load. Avoid plugging too many devices into a single outlet or circuit.
Circuit Breakers: Familiarize yourself with your home’s circuit breaker panel. Know how to reset a tripped breaker and recognize signs of overloaded circuits.
Energy-Efficient Devices: Use energy-efficient appliances and lighting to reduce overall power consumption.

Pool and Hot Tub Safety
Pools and hot tubs are popular during summer celebrations but pose unique electrical hazards.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs): Ensure all pool and hot tub electrical outlets are protected by GFCIs to prevent electrical shock.
Maintain Distance: Keep all electrical devices and extension cords away from the water. Use battery-operated devices when possible.
Professional Inspection: Have a licensed electrician inspect your pool and hot tub wiring annually to ensure it meets safety standards.

Barbecue and Cooking Equipment
Outdoor cooking is a highlight of July 4th festivities. Ensuring electrical safety while using cooking equipment is essential.

Electrical Grills: Use electrical grills and smokers according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Keep them away from flammable materials.
Extension Cords: Use outdoor-rated extension cords and avoid running them across walkways to prevent tripping hazards.
Turn Off When Not in Use: Always turn off cooking equipment when not in use to prevent overheating and potential fires.

Child Safety Tips
Children are naturally curious and can inadvertently come into contact with electrical hazards during celebrations.

Supervision: Always supervise children around electrical devices and fireworks. Explain the dangers of electricity and how to stay safe.
Childproofing: Use outlet covers and cord organizers to keep electrical outlets and cords out of reach.
Safe Zones: Designate safe play areas away from electrical equipment and fireworks.

First Aid for Electrical Injuries
Despite precautions, electrical injuries can occur. Knowing basic first aid can make a critical difference.

Immediate Response: If someone is injured by electricity, do not touch them if they are still in contact with the electrical source. Turn off the power first.
Call for Help: Call emergency services immediately. Provide them with as much information as possible about the injury.
Basic First Aid: If the victim is not breathing or has no pulse, perform CPR until help arrives. Treat burns with cool water and cover with a clean cloth.

Energy Efficiency During Celebrations
Maintaining energy efficiency is beneficial for both the environment and your utility bills.

LED Lighting: Use energy-efficient LED lights for decorations. They consume less power and generate less heat.
Energy-Saving Appliances: Use energy-efficient appliances for cooking and entertainment to reduce overall energy consumption.
Smart Devices: Employ smart devices to monitor and control energy usage, ensuring efficiency and convenience.

Pet Safety and Electrical Concerns
Pets can be curious about electrical cords and devices, posing a risk to both themselves and your electrical systems.

Secure Cords: Keep electrical cords out of reach or covered to prevent pets from chewing on them.
Pet-Friendly Zones: Create pet-friendly areas that are free from electrical hazards.
Supervision: Monitor pets closely during celebrations to prevent accidental contact with electrical devices.

Backup Power Solutions
Having backup power ensures your celebrations continue smoothly in case of power outages.

Portable Generators: Consider using portable generators for backup power. Follow safety guidelines for operation.
Battery Backups: Use battery backup systems for critical devices and appliances.
Professional Installation: Have a licensed electrician install backup power solutions to ensure they are safe and effective.

July 4th is a time for joy and celebration, but it is essential to prioritize electrical safety to ensure a memorable and accident-free holiday. By following these comprehensive tips, Phoenix residents can enjoy their Independence Day festivities while keeping their homes and loved ones safe. Embrace these practices and celebrate with peace of mind. In need of a licensed electrician? Contact Turn It On Electric today to schedule a complimentary estimate!

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Residential

Energy Efficiency Tips to Beat the Phoenix Heat

28Jun2024

Phoenix, Arizona, is renowned for its scorching summers, with temperatures often soaring above 100°F. In such an extreme climate, energy efficiency becomes not just a matter of economic prudence but also a necessity for comfort and sustainability. Implementing energy-efficient practices can significantly reduce energy consumption, lower utility bills, and contribute to a more sustainable environment. We’ll dive into several practical and effective tips for Phoenix residents to enhance energy efficiency and beat the heat.

Insulation and Weatherproofing

Proper insulation is the cornerstone of an energy-efficient home. It helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing the load on your cooling systems. Start with insulating your attic, walls, and floors using high-quality materials.

Attic Insulation: Use materials like fiberglass or spray foam to insulate your attic, preventing heat from penetrating your living spaces.
Wall Insulation: Consider adding insulation to your walls if your home is older and lacks adequate protection.
Weatherproofing: Seal cracks and gaps around doors and windows with weatherstripping and caulking to prevent air leaks. This ensures that cool air stays inside and hot air remains outside.

Efficient Cooling Systems

Air conditioning is essential in Phoenix, but it can be a major energy consumer. To maximize efficiency, maintain your cooling systems and explore alternative cooling methods.

Regular Maintenance: Schedule annual maintenance for your air conditioning unit. Clean or replace filters monthly to ensure optimal performance.
Programmable Thermostats: Invest in a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule. This can lead to significant energy savings.
Ceiling Fans: Use ceiling fans to circulate air and create a wind-chill effect, allowing you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort.

Energy-Efficient Appliances

Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances can result in substantial energy savings and improved performance. Look for the ENERGY STAR label when purchasing new appliances.

Refrigerators and Freezers: Opt for models with advanced cooling technologies and better insulation.
Washers and Dryers: Energy-efficient washers use less water and energy, while dryers with moisture sensors prevent over-drying.
Dishwashers: Modern dishwashers with efficient motors and soil sensors can save both energy and water.

Smart Home Devices

Smart home technology offers innovative solutions to enhance energy efficiency by automating and optimizing energy use.

Smart Thermostats: These devices learn your habits and adjust the temperature accordingly.
Smart Lighting: Use smart bulbs and switches to control lighting remotely and set schedules to ensure lights are only on when needed.
Energy Monitoring Systems: Install an energy monitoring system to track your energy usage in real-time and identify areas for improvement.

By implementing these energy efficiency tips, Phoenix residents can enjoy a cooler, more comfortable home while significantly reducing energy consumption and costs. Insulating your home, maintaining efficient cooling systems, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, and leveraging smart home technology are all practical steps that contribute to a more sustainable and cost-effective living environment. Embrace these changes and experience the benefits of a greener, more energy-efficient home.

Need help installing a new smart thermostat, a receptacle for new appliances, or evaluating your homes electrical? Call Turn It On Electric today to schedule a no cost estimate and discuss with a professional what your options and requirements may be.

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Residential

Do You Need a Whole Home Generator in Phoenix?

21Jun2024

Phoenix residents face unique challenges due to extreme weather conditions and potential power outages. A whole home generator can provide peace of mind and ensure your home remains powered during emergencies. We’ll help you understand if a whole home generator is right for you and what to expect during the installation process.

Why Consider a Whole Home Generator?

Uninterrupted Power Supply: Whole home generators automatically restore power during an outage. That means no down times or wondering when or if the power will be coming back on.
Protection for Essential Systems: Ensures critical systems like HVAC, refrigerators, and medical devices remain operational.
Increased Home Value: Installing a whole home generator adds to your property’s value, making it a worthwhile investment.

Key Considerations Before Installation

Power Needs Assessment: Determine the wattage requirements of essential appliances and systems to choose the right generator size.
Fuel Type: The options for fuel include natural gas, propane, and diesel. Natural gas is often preferred for its reliability and ease of access and is the choice that most consumers choose to go with.
Location: Choose an installation site that adheres to local codes, such as maintaining a certain distance from the home or certain utilities, and is safe from flooding and other environmental hazards.
Permits: When installing a whole home generator, be sure to obtain any necessary permits from local authorities and the city. A licensed electrician, like Turn It On Electric, will usually handle this process for you.

Installation Process

Site Preparation: You will need to make sure that your chosen installation location is clear and unobstructed, also ensuring that there is proper ventilation and drainage for the generator.
Professional Installation: Hire a licensed electrician, like Turn It On Electric, to handle the installation. Doing so ensures that the installation itself meets all safety standards and regulations.
Connection to the Home’s Electrical System: Install an automatic transfer switch to facilitate a seamless transition to generator power during outages.

Cost Considerations

Initial Investment: Whole home generators and their installation can be quite pricey, ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the size and complexity of the system.
Long-Term Savings: While the upfront cost is significant, a whole home generator can save money in the long run by preventing damage from power outages and maintaining the functionality of your home. Not to mention the peace of mind that it offers for you and your loved ones in times of emergency.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Regular Inspections: It is recommended to schedule routine checkups to ensure the generator is in good working condition and not in need of repairs.
Fuel Management: Be sure to keep the generator’s fuel tanks filled and replace any old fuel to prevent clogging and buildup to ensure the efficiency and longevity of the unit.

A whole home generator is a valuable investment for Phoenix residents, offering uninterrupted power and enhanced home value. By understanding your power needs, ensuring code compliance, and hiring professional installers, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with reliable backup power.

Considering a whole home generator for your Phoenix home? Contact Turn It On Electric for a no cost, expert consultation and trust us for professional installation services to keep your home powered during any outage.

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Residential

Preparing for Monsoon Season: Electrical Safety Tips for Phoenix Residents

14Jun2024

Monsoon season in Phoenix brings heavy rains, strong winds, and lightning storms. These elements can pose significant risks to your home’s electrical system. As professional electricians, we understand the importance of protecting your electrical infrastructure during this volatile season. Here are essential tips to ensure your home remains safe and functional.

1. Inspect and Safeguard Outdoor Electrical Fixtures

Monsoon rains can severely affect outdoor electrical fixtures. Here’s what to do:

Weatherproofing: Ensure all outdoor outlets, light fixtures, and junction boxes are weatherproofed. Use weather-resistant covers to protect them from water ingress.
Elevate Equipment: Raise outdoor electrical equipment such as AC units and pool pumps to prevent water damage. This simple step can prevent costly repairs or replacements.
Seal Exposed Wiring: Any exposed wiring should be covered with weather-resistant materials to prevent short circuits caused by water exposure.

2. Ensure Proper Drainage Around Electrical Panels

Water intrusion around electrical panels can be dangerous. Follow these steps to ensure proper drainage:

Clear Debris: Regularly clear debris from around your electrical panel and outlets to ensure water flows away from these areas.
Install Drainage Systems: If your home is prone to flooding, consider installing drainage systems or sump pumps to redirect water away from critical electrical areas.
Waterproof Barriers: Use waterproof barriers around your electrical panel to prevent water from reaching it during heavy rains.

3. Secure Your Whole Home Generator

A whole home generator is essential for maintaining power during outages. Here’s how to ensure its reliability:

Professional Installation: Ensure your whole home generator is installed by a licensed professional. This guarantees that it meets all safety and compliance standards.
Routine Inspections: Schedule regular inspections and maintenance checks to ensure your generator is in optimal condition and ready to operate during an outage.
Automated Systems: Invest in an automated transfer switch that allows your generator to start automatically when power is lost, ensuring continuous electricity supply during storms.

4. Use Surge Protectors

Power surges are common during monsoon storms due to lightning strikes and power fluctuations. Protect your electronics with the following:

Whole House Surge Protectors: Install a whole house surge protector at your main electrical panel to safeguard all your devices and appliances from voltage spikes.
Point-of-Use Protectors: Use additional surge protectors for sensitive electronics such as computers, TVs, and home entertainment systems for added protection.

5. Regular Electrical Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial to identify and rectify potential electrical issues before they become serious problems:

Professional Inspections: Schedule annual inspections with a licensed electrician to ensure your electrical system is in top condition.
Check for Wear and Tear: Regularly check for signs of wear and tear on your electrical components, such as frayed wires, corroded connections, and outdated fixtures.

6. Backup Plans and Emergency Preparedness

Being prepared for power outages is essential for safety and comfort:

Emergency Kit: Keep an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, a portable phone charger, and other essentials handy.
Contact Information: Have the contact information of a reliable electrician, like Turn It On Electric, readily available for emergencies.

Monsoon season in Phoenix can pose serious risks to your home’s electrical system. By taking these precautionary steps, you can protect your home and ensure your electrical system remains safe and operational. Turn It On Electric is here to help with all your electrical needs, providing expert services to keep your home safe during the stormy season.

Prepare your home for the monsoon season with the help of Turn It On Electric. Contact us today for expert electrical services tailored to Phoenix residents. Ensure your home’s electrical system is storm-ready and secure with our professional assistance.

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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!