Electrical Upgrades Your Home Needs Right Now 

by | Dec 27, 2024 | Electrical Service

As technology advances and the demands on our homes increase, it’s essential to keep your electrical system up to date. Over time, older electrical systems can struggle to support the modern gadgets and appliances we rely on. Upgrading your home’s electrical infrastructure not only improves efficiency but also enhances safety. 

Electrical Upgrades for Your Home 

Let’s explore the essential electrical upgrades your home may need right now to keep up with current demands. If you’re planning to get these upgrades, hire an electrician Charleston SC. 

1. Upgrading Your Electrical Panel 

Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system. If you live in an older home, the panel may not be equipped to handle the electrical load of modern appliances. An outdated or underpowered panel can lead to frequent circuit breaker trips, power outages, and potential fire hazards. Upgrading your electrical panel ensures your home can support high-demand appliances, such as air conditioners, electric dryers, and electric vehicles. If your home is older or if you’ve recently renovated, this upgrade is a must for safety and functionality. 

2. Installing Additional Outlets 

With the rise of electronics and smart home devices, many homes lack sufficient outlets to meet modern needs. Constantly relying on power strips or extension cords is not only inconvenient but can also pose a safety risk, especially if they’re overloaded. Installing additional outlets, especially in high-demand areas like kitchens, home offices, or living rooms, can help alleviate these problems. It’s also a good idea to install USB outlets for easy charging of phones and tablets without needing a bulky adapter. 

3. Switching to LED Lighting 

One of the simplest and most cost-effective electrical upgrades you can make is switching your home’s lighting to LED bulbs. LED bulbs use up to 85% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, significantly reducing your energy bills. They also have a longer lifespan, which means fewer bulb replacements. Consider swapping out your old bulbs in both interior and exterior lights to start saving on your energy consumption. For added convenience, you can even opt for smart LED lights that allow you to control the lighting remotely or set schedules to optimize energy use. 

4. Upgrading to Smart Home Technology 

Smart home technology is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. From thermostats and security systems to lighting and appliances, smart devices help make your home more energy-efficient and secure. To support these technologies, you may need to upgrade your electrical system. Adding smart switches, outlets, or a dedicated circuit for high-power smart appliances (like refrigerators or HVAC systems) ensures your home’s electrical infrastructure can handle these devices.  

5. Surge Protection for Electronics 

Power surges can occur due to lightning storms, faulty wiring, or issues from the electric grid. These surges can damage sensitive electronics, such as computers, televisions, and home appliances. Installing a whole-house surge protector offers a protective shield for all your electrical devices. This is a small investment that can save you from the potentially high costs of replacing damaged electronics or appliances.  

Conclusion: Electrical Upgrades for Your Home 

Upgrading your home’s electrical system may seem like a daunting task, but it’s an investment that pays off in both safety and convenience. Don’t wait until problems arise—take action now to ensure your electrical system is ready for the future. 

Safety Tips Before, During and After a Power Outage  

by | Feb 4, 2024 | Electrical Service

A power outage refers to a state of electric power loss in a given area or power grid, which can happen short or long term. It often happens when are there storms, but it can also happen because of any small structural damages or issues. So, expect it can occur anytime and anywhere, planned or unexpected. This can also last for a few days or longer and can disrupt water, communications, transportation, banks, stores, and other needed services.   

Do These Before a Power Outage 

Now that you know that power outages can happen in a long term, it is important that you prepare ahead of time. You can do this by signing up for alert systems and apps, installing some smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, planning for your medical and electrical needs, planning for surge protection at home.  Most importantly, ensure that you hire professionals residential or commercial electrical contractors Atlanta GA to secure that your power lines in the building are properly installed.  

Do These During a Power Outage  

Now, just in case power outages happen, you can do the following:  

1. Always keep in touch with your support network – always update people in your network that you are okay. Update each other on your situation. Although constant communication is not necessary, frequent exchanges of updates may be needed especially if the cause of the power outage is a storm or any natural disaster.   

2. Always monitor alerts – remember the apps and alert systems you availed of? You need them now. Check local weather reports and ensure that your notification sound is turned on. Some local officials may also come at your door for updates and alerts so be vigilant.   

3. Take notice of your fridge – when electricity is reported to be longer than a day, take notice of your food in the fridge. Eat the perishable food first to avoid food waste and avoid opening the fridge and freezer if not needed to preserve the cool temperature. A full freezer can stay cold for up to two days if left unopened.   

4. Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning – Avoid using a stove or anything that uses gas for cooking or heating your home. If you need to cook through it, make sure that it is in a well-ventilated area.   

5. Prevent fire hazards – before a power outage, it is important you unplug appliances and electronics. If the power outage is unexpected, immediately turn off and unplug appliances after the power outage to avoid damages. Power overloads may also happen when the electricity is now back and all appliances are plugged in, turned on, and energy surges to them.   

Do These After a Power Outage  

Safety measures still need to be done even once the electricity has gone back. We mentioned that once the electricity has gone back, there is a tendency of a power surge. This is why you should not immediately turn on appliances all at once. If you also happen to see fallen power lines, keep your distance for at least 35 feet. Also, avoid going into a flooded area or using any electrical tool that has been wetted. This is important especially when there is a storm and flood before, during, and after the power outage. Do not hesitate to call for help in times of emergency.