Categories Residential

Thanksgiving Safety Tips: Keeping Your Home Safe for the Holidays

As Thanksgiving approaches, homes across the country buzz with activity and anticipation. It’s a time for gratitude, family, friends, and of course, the traditional feast. However, amidst all the joy and celebration, it’s crucial to remember the importance of electrical safety. At Turn It On Electric, we’re committed to ensuring your holiday season is not only joyful but also safe. Here are some essential tips to keep your home electrically safe during Thanksgiving.

Kitchen Safety: The Heart of Thanksgiving

The kitchen is the epicenter of Thanksgiving, but it’s also where most home fires occur. Keep these tips in mind:

– Avoid Overloading Outlets: Plugging too many appliances into one outlet can cause overheating. Use multiple outlets and power strips with internal surge protection.

– Inspect Your Appliances: Before the big cook-off, check cords and plugs of your kitchen appliances for wear and tear. Replace any frayed or damaged cords.

– Stay Attentive: Never leave your cooking unattended, especially when using electrical appliances or the stove.

Decorative Lighting: Set the Mood Safely

Thanksgiving decorations often include festive lighting. To ensure they add only cheer, not danger:

– Check Your Lights: Inspect string lights for broken cords, loose bulb connections, and cracked sockets. Only use lights that meet safety standards and are in good condition.

– Use Extension Cords Wisely: Ensure extension cords are not a tripping hazard and do not run them under rugs or furniture where they can overheat.

Child and Pet Proofing: A Family Affair

With family and pets gathering, it’s vital to ensure their safety:

– Secure Loose Cords: Keep electrical cords away from pets and children to prevent chewing and pulling.

– Cover Unused Outlets: Use safety covers on all unused electrical outlets, especially if you have curious toddlers around.

Electrical Fire Safety: Be Prepared

In case of an electrical fire:

– Have a Fire Extinguisher Handy: Keep a fire extinguisher in your kitchen and ensure it’s suitable for electrical fires.

– Know Your Breakers: Familiarize yourself with the circuit breaker box and know how to quickly turn off power in an emergency.

Safe Heating: Cozy but Cautious

As the weather cools down, space heaters come out:

– Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything flammable.

– Turn Them Off: Never leave space heaters on when you leave the room or go to sleep.

Turn It On Electric: Your Safety Partner

If you’re unsure about the safety of your home’s electrical system, it’s best to consult a professional. At Turn It On Electric, we can inspect your home for potential hazards and provide expert advice and solutions. A pre-holiday electrical checkup can be a wise move to ensure your home is ready for the festive season.

For any electrical concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to REACH OUT to Turn It On Electric. We’re here to make your holiday season safe and bright.

Categories Residential

RV Receptacles: Powering Your Adventures Safely

Embarking on an RV adventure offers a sense of freedom and excitement. But behind the scenes, a reliable power supply plays a pivotal role in ensuring that your journey is both comfortable and safe. Central to this reliable power supply are RV receptacles – the unsung heroes that connect your RV to a stable power source.

Understanding RV Electrical Systems

At the heart of every RV is its electrical system, a complex network that powers everything from lighting to appliances. Two main types of RV receptacles are prevalent: the 30-amp and the 50-amp. The 30-amp receptacles are suitable for smaller RVs with fewer power demands, while the 50-amp ones cater to larger RVs equipped with multiple high-power appliances. Selecting the appropriate receptacle is crucial for balancing your RV’s energy needs with safety considerations.

Types of RV Receptacles

RV receptacles come in various forms, each designed to meet specific electrical standards and requirements. From twist-locking plugs that secure the connection against accidental disconnections to heavy-duty receptacles designed to handle higher wattages, the choice of receptacle should be made with both the RV’s specifications and your power needs in mind.

Safety First: Proper Installation of RV Receptacles

Improper installation of RV receptacles can lead to dire consequences, including electrical fires or appliance malfunctions. This underscores the importance of entrusting the installation to licensed professionals. At Turn It On Electric, our experts ensure that every installation meets rigorous safety standards, providing peace of mind as you travel.

Upgrades and Modern Features

Advancements in RV receptacle technology have led to the introduction of features that enhance safety and convenience. Modern receptacles often come equipped with weatherproof designs and built-in surge protection, safeguarding your RV against the elements and unexpected power surges. For those who frequently embark on RV adventures, upgrading to these advanced receptacles can be a wise investment.

Conclusion

Understanding and properly managing RV receptacles is essential for any RV owner. These components are more than mere accessories; they are foundational to a safe and enjoyable RV experience. Partnering with professionals like Turn It On Electric ensures that your RV’s electrical system is in capable hands. As you power your adventures, CONTACT US to power your safety and comfort on the open road.

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

Power Up: Signs Your Home Needs an Electrical Panel Upgrade

Power Up: Signs Your Home Needs an Electrical Panel Upgrade

At Turn It On Electric, we believe in empowering homeowners with the knowledge to keep their homes safe and efficient. This time, we focus on an often overlooked but essential component of your home’s electrical system – the electric panel. Knowing when to upgrade your electric panel is crucial to maintain your home’s functionality and safety. Here are a few key signs that suggest it might be time for an upgrade:

Overloading Issues

If your circuit breakers trip frequently, it’s a clear sign that your panel is being overloaded. This usually occurs when your electrical panel doesn’t have the capacity to handle the power needed by your appliances, causing it to trip as a safety mechanism.

Ageing Panel

If your home was built more than two decades ago and the electrical panel hasn’t been updated since, it might be due for an upgrade. Older panels might not meet current electrical codes and can have a lower capacity, making them ill-equipped to handle modern electrical loads.

Usage of Multiple Extension Cords

If you find yourself relying heavily on extension cords and power strips, it could mean your home lacks the necessary number of outlets. This might suggest your panel needs an upgrade to accommodate more circuits and outlets.

Signs of Damage or Wear

Physical indications of damage such as a rusted panel, scorch marks, or even a burning smell, could suggest your panel is in dire need of an upgrade. Never ignore these signs, as they could lead to electrical fires if not addressed.

Renovations and Additional Appliances

If you’re planning a significant renovation or adding high-power appliances like a hot tub or an electric vehicle charger, you might need to upgrade your panel to handle the additional load.

Flickering Lights

If your lights flicker or dim when you turn on other appliances, it could indicate that your panel is struggling to supply adequate power.

Rising to the Challenge with Turn It On Electric

At Turn It On Electric, we recognize that an electrical panel upgrade is not a small task. But when it comes to your home’s safety and efficiency, it’s a challenge we’re ready to meet head-on. Beyond just handling the permits, inspections, and the city procedures needed for an upgrade, our customer-focused approach means we provide personal consultations, with technicians visiting your home to understand your unique needs and provide a tailored solution.

When it comes to enhancing your home’s electrical system, trust Turn It On Electric to deliver a service that’s not just about doing the job but about doing it right. CONTACT US TODAY and let’s collaborate to power up your home’s electrical infrastructure in a safe and efficient manner.

Categories Residential

The Gentle Power of Dimmers: Setting Ambiance and Saving Energy

The Gentle Power of Dimmers: Setting Ambiance and Saving Energy

In today’s modern age of technology, we often find ourselves surrounded by the buzz and whirr of various gadgets. Amid this constant hum, a silent hero has emerged in our homes: the humble dimmer switch. Far from being a mere accessory, dimmer switches have transformed our living spaces, blending the twin goals of ambiance and energy conservation. In this article, we’ll delve deep into the world of dimmers, exploring their role in setting a room’s mood and their potential to save energy.

The Rise of the Dimmer

Dimmer switches have been around for over a century, but their real surge in popularity began in the 1960s and 1970s. Their simple promise? To allow homeowners to adjust the lighting in their homes to their exact preferences. As the years progressed, dimmers became increasingly sophisticated, offering more than just a way to set the mood. They have evolved into essential tools for energy conservation.

Mood Lighting at Your Fingertips

Imagine hosting a dinner party. As the evening progresses, the mood changes—from lively conversations during the appetizer round to intimate stories by dessert. With a simple touch, a dimmer allows you to adjust the lighting to match the evening’s tone. Dimmed lights can create a cozy, intimate atmosphere, enhancing experiences from romantic dinners to movie nights.

It’s not just about setting the mood for special occasions. Proper lighting can reduce eye strain, making tasks like reading more comfortable. With dimmers, spaces like home offices or reading nooks can have adjustable lighting, ensuring comfort and reducing glare.

An Eco-Friendly Solution

Beyond ambiance, dimmer switches play a crucial role in energy conservation. When you reduce the brightness of your lights, you’re not just dimming the light output; you’re also using less electricity. This reduced energy consumption translates directly into lower utility bills.

For instance, dimming a light by just 10% can result in nearly the same amount of energy savings. Moreover, when lights are dimmed, they often run cooler, which can extend the life of certain types of bulbs, further contributing to savings and reduced waste.

Smart Integration

In the era of smart homes, dimmer switches have seamlessly integrated into home automation systems. Modern dimmers can be scheduled to adjust lighting levels at different times of the day or paired with sensors to optimize light usage based on natural sunlight or room occupancy. This not only ensures optimal ambiance but also maximizes energy efficiency.

Making the Right Choice with Turn It On Electric

Not all dimmers are created equal, and not all bulbs are compatible with every dimmer. LED bulbs, in particular, require specific dimmer switches. This is where expertise comes into play. Turn It On Electric’s professionals can guide you through the process of choosing the right dimmer for your home, ensuring compatibility, safety, and optimal performance. CONTACT US TODAY to see what options are available to you!