Electrical Tips & Advice (15)
With prolonged power outages becoming more common many year round, many Chicagoland area homeowners are considering installing a standby generator to protect their property and avoid the inconvenience and discomfort of extended outages. One of the most common questions we hear is: Can a generator power a whole house? Here's what to condsider:
List Your Essentials
Identify the appliances and systems you need during an outage (e.g., refrigerator, HVAC, lights, EV charger).
Calculate Your Power Needs
Add up the wattage of these essentials. Most homes require a generator between 5,000 to 20,000 watts to cover basic needs.
Consider Total Coverage
For total home coverage, you'll likely need a generator on the higher end of this range, especially if you have high-power appliances.
Appliances often require more power at startup. Ensure your generator can handle these peaks.
Fuel Type
Standby generators typically run on natural gas or propane. Consider availability and cost in your area.
Location and Installation
Professional installation is critical for safety and compliance with local codes.
What Is a Standby Generator?
Unlike portable generators, they're permanently installed and connected to a transfer switch to automatically supply power to your home when the grid fails. Because they require no intervention and switch over immediately, standby generators are increasingly popular for providing a reliable power source during outages.Sizing Your Standby Generator
Yes, a standby generator can power a whole house... provided it's correctly sized and installed. Choosing the right size generator for your needs is crucial. While it's best to have a certified electrician make the final calculations, here's a simple guide:List Your Essentials
Identify the appliances and systems you need during an outage (e.g., refrigerator, HVAC, lights, EV charger).
Calculate Your Power Needs
Add up the wattage of these essentials. Most homes require a generator between 5,000 to 20,000 watts to cover basic needs.
Consider Total Coverage
For total home coverage, you'll likely need a generator on the higher end of this range, especially if you have high-power appliances.
Factors to Consider
Peak vs. Running WattageAppliances often require more power at startup. Ensure your generator can handle these peaks.
Fuel Type
Standby generators typically run on natural gas or propane. Consider availability and cost in your area.
Location and Installation
Professional installation is critical for safety and compliance with local codes.
You Can Rely on MR Plumbing Heating Air Electrical
MR Plumbing Heating Air Electrical, we specialize in helping Chicagoland area homeowners find the perfect standby generator. Our team provides tailored solutions, ensuring you get a generator that not only powers your entire house but also suits your specific needs.
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Electrical Tips & Advice
What they are and why every homeowner with a generator needs one.
When power outages strike communities in the Chicagoland area, having a backup generator can be a lifesaver. You will not only be able to keep the lights on, you can also power your heating and air conditioning, refrigerator and other essential appliances.
But to harness a generator's full potential and ensure safety, you need a crucial component: the generator transfer switch. If you're new to the world of backup power or are considering investing in a generator for your home, MR Plumbing Heating Air Electrical will walk you through the basics of generator transfer switches.
What is a Generator Transfer Switch?
A generator transfer switch is an electrical device that allows you to safely connect a generator to your home's electrical system. Instead of running extension cords from your generator to your appliances, a transfer switch provides a direct link to your home's electrical panel.Why Do You Need One?
The primary reason is safety. Connecting a generator directly to your home's wiring without a transfer switch can "backfeed" electricity into the power lines, posing a severe risk to utility workers and neighbors. A transfer switch prevents this dangerous backfeed.The second reason is convenience. With a transfer switch, you can power hardwired appliances like your furnace, well pump, or home security system, which can't be powered with extension cords.
Another advantage of transfer switches is efficiency. Because a transfer switch interfaces with your service panel, it allow you to manage which circuits in your home are powered, helping you maximize the efficiency of your generator.
Types of Transfer Switches
There are primarily two types:Manual Transfer Switch
As the name implies, it requires you to manually switch the power source from the utility to the generator. It's more affordable but requires manual intervention during power outages.
Automatic Transfer Switch
This type detects when utility power is lost and automatically switches to generator power, then switches back when utility power is restored. It's more convenient but comes at a higher cost. A standby generator will employ this type of transfer switch.
How to Choose the Right Transfer Switch
When selecting a transfer switch, you will need to consider:Generator Size: It essential that the switch be rated to handle the generator's power output.
Number of Circuits: Decide how many circuits in your home you want to power during an outage.
Type of Appliances: Some sensitive electronics may require specific types of switches.
Local Regulations and Installation
In many areas, installation must be done by a licensed electrician. An electrician will obtain any necessary permits and will follow local regulations before installing a transfer switch. Proper installation ensures safety and compliance with local codes.Chicagoland Transfer Switch Installation
A generator transfer switch is an essential component for anyone looking to use a backup generator for their home. It ensures safety, convenience, and efficient use of your generator during power outages. If you're considering setting up a backup power system in Chicagoland, MR Plumbing Heating Air Electrical can help. We take the time to learn about your backup power needs, access your current electrical system and provide cost-effective solutions for safe, reliable backup power.
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Electrical Tips & Advice
If there's one thing we've learned in our years of providing electrical services in the Chicagoland area, it's this: surge protection isn’t just a good idea; it's a necessity. In this post, we will explore the reasons every home needs a whole-home surge protector, and why it's worth the investment.
1. Today's Dependency on Electronics
Today, our homes are filled with a myriad of electronic gadgets - from the smart appliances in the kitchen to high-end electronics in the living room, and the laptops and tablets we use for work and play. All these devices rely heavily on electricity, and any sudden spike can damage their intricate internal components. A surge protector acts as a shield, ensuring your devices are safe from these unexpected electrical surges.2. Electrical Surges Are More Common Than You Think
Many believe that electrical surges only occur during thunderstorms. But did you know that roughly 80% of electrical surges are generated internally, often due to appliances like air conditioners and refrigerators cycling on and off? It's true. These minor surges might not cause immediate damage but, over time, they can wear down the performance and lifespan of your electronic devices.3. The Cost of Replacement is High
Imagine losing your brand-new 8K TV or that gaming console you saved up for, just because of an unexpected electrical spike. The cost of replacing these electronics is much higher than investing in a whole-home surge protector. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind.4. Comprehensive Home Protection
Whole-house surge protectors offer a blanket of protection, not just for your electronics but for your entire electrical system. They protect against external surges, like those from lightning, ensuring your wiring and outlets remain intact and safe.5. Protecting Priceless Data
For many of us, our computers are more than just tools or entertainment devices; they're repositories of precious memories in the form of photos, videos, and personal documents. A sudden surge can result in data loss. By having a surge protector, you're safeguarding those irreplaceable memories.While some homeowner's insurance policies may cover the loss of equipment, they cannot restore your lost data.
6. Surge Protection Is Installed at the Electrical Panel
With advancements in technology, whole-home surge protectors have become both more effective and easier to integrate into your home. We recommend and install units that best fit the unique needs of each Chicagoland home.Trust MR Plumbing Heating Air Electrical to Keep Your Home Safe
If you're in the Chicagoland area and need expert advice or installation assistance, our friendly team of experienced electricians are here to help. We will ensure your home is safe, surge-free, and powered for the future.
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Electrical Tips & Advice
While 3-prong grounded outlets have been required in the electrical code for over 50 years, it's not uncommon for older homes in the greater Lynchburg area to still have two-prong outlets.
What Is Electrical Grounding?
Grounding is a way of allowing excess electricity a safe route from an appliance back to the ground by way of an electrical panel. Electrical grounding is needed if there is a fault in the wiring system, such as a short circuit, to allow electricity to safely exit to the ground without causing harm to anyone in contact with the electrical appliance.Are Your Outlets Really Grounded?
In some cases two-prong outlets are replaced with three-prong outlets, but without the necessary rewiring to add a ground. This is often done to make it more convenient to use three-prong outlets, but it does not provide the safety benefits of a grounded outlet. A lack of grounding can be identified by using a plug-in circuit tester.According to the National Electrical Code when a grounded type outlet is installed a new ground wire must also be installed by a licensed electrician. There is an exception to this rule when the outlet is protected with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI).
One of the hazardous situations where an ungrounded outlet can be unsafe is when using a surge protector, such as the outlet strips commonly used to protect computers. When a power surge is detected by the surge protector, it needs the ground wire to redirect the surge until it can trip. Without the ground wire the surge protector will destroy the sensitive electronics that it is meant to protect.
If your home has two-prong outlets and older wiring, play it safe and have MR Plumbing Heating Air Electrical & Electrical upgrade your wiring and outlets to protect your family and your home.
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Electrical Tips & Advice
The National Fire Protection Association reports that every year around 50,000 fires in the U.S. are caused by some kind of electrical failure or malfunction. The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that more than 50% of electrical fires could be prevented by using Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs).
What Is An Arc Fault?
When an electrical device or wiring becomes damaged, overheated or over-stressed it increases the chances of an electrical arc. For example, a wire behind a wall may become damaged when a nail is driven through the drywall, or an electrical cord may become worn out from repeated use, causing the insulation to crack and the wires inside to make contact.Other causes of arc faults include:
- Loose or improper connections, such as electrical wires to outlets or switches
- Frayed appliance or extension cords
- Pinched or pierced wire insulation
- Cracked wire insulation caused by age, heat, or repeated bending
- Overloaded wires or cords
- Damaged or malfunctioning appliances
- Rodent damage to electrical wiring
Arc-Fault Circuit Interupter
There are several kinds of arc-fault prevention devices found in homes, they include:AFCI Receptacles
These are outlets that are installed in bathrooms, kitchens, garages and other areas of the home where water is more likely to come into contact with electrical devices. Theyhave a reset and a test button. AFCI receptacles provide
protection for downstream wire and appliances.
Branch/Feeded AFCI Breaker
This is the original AFCI breaker that was required starting in 1999 to meet the National Electrical Code (NEC). They provide improved fire protection by tripping when a parallel arc is detected between hot and neutral conductors.Combination AFCI's
Branch/Feeder AFCI breakers were phased out starting in 2008 and replaced with Combination Type AFCIs. They work similarly, but offer enhanced fire protection by detecting lower level series arching in both branch circuits and power cords.
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Electrical Tips & Advice
Fixing Common Light Fixture Problems
If you have a light fixture that's failed or not working correctly, and you have tried replacing the the light bulb or adjusting the light bulb socket, there a few other things you can check to try to solve the problem.
1. Loose Switch Wiring
One of the most common problems with light fixtures is a loose wire connection at the switch. Constant switching on and off can loosen the connection. Turn the power of at the breaker panel, remove the switch cover, then tighten any loose wires. If you're concerned about the connections, have MR Plumbing Heating Air Electrical inspect the wiring.
If the light switch is working fine and the lights still flicker, have MR Plumbing Heating Air Electrical check the electrical wiring for problems.
2. Bad Switch Contacts
If the bulb flickers on and off, it could be caused by switch contacts that are worn out. If you can hear a sizzling or crackling sound when the switch is flipped, the contacts are bad. The switch should be replaced.
3. Recessed Lighting Randomly Going On and Off
Are your recessed lighting fixtures randomly going on and off? The most most common cause is overheating. Recessed lights are equipped with a safety limit switch to prevent overheating by turing the fixture off automatically when heat reaches an unsafe level.
Check that the bulb in the fixture has the correct wattage and install a lower wattage bulb if needed. Also look for insulation that may be packed too tightly around the fixture, trapping heat. If the problem persists after trying the above steps, call MR Plumbing Heating Air Electrical to inspect the lights. They may have a faulty limit switch or other problem.
4. Faulty Light Socket Tab
If you look inside a light socket you will see a brass tab that presses up against the base of the light bulb when the bulb is screwed in. Screwing bulbs in too tightly can cause the tab to become bent down too far, preventing a solid contact with the base of the light bulb. This can cause electricity to arc, damaging the contact point on the light bulb, causing it to fail prematurely.
To fix the problem shut the power off to the fixture at the breaker panel, or if it's a plug-in fixture, un-plug it from the wall. Next, gently bend the socket tab upwards slightly with a needle-nose pliers so it is not flat against the bottom of the socket, about a quarter of an inch will work.
5. Incompatible Dimmer Switches
If you have upgraded your light fixtures from older incandescent bulbs to LEDs it's important to use dimmer switches that are compatible with LEDs. Older dimmer switches were designed for use with standard incandescent bulbs only, and if you use CFL or LED bulbs it can damage the circuitry of the bulb, causing it to wear out prematurely.
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Electrical Tips & Advice
We don't often think about electrical glitches around the home, but these little electrical issues can be a real hazard, causing house fires and electrical shock.
Here are some of the most common electrical warning signs that could signal a more serious problem with your home's electrical system.
1. Circuit Breakers That Repeatedly Trip
A tripped circuit is a sign that the breaker is working correctly to prevent an overload. However, if a breaker is repeatedly tripping, it could be a sign that there is too large an electrical load on the circuit. In most cases resetting the breaker restores power, but in some cases the breaker cannot be reset, and it keeps tripping. Never attempt to press a breaker if it won't reset, you're likely to start an electrical fire. If a breaker refuses to reset on the first try, leave it off and call an electrician.
2. Lights That Flicker Or Turn Off Unexpectedly
In some cases this is just a loose light bulb. However, it could also be a sign of a loose wiring connection or a light fixture that has worn out and is in need of replacement. Turn off the power to the fixture and investigate the supply wiring and the fixture itself. A qualified electrician should inspect the wiring and test the circuit breaker to ensure it's operating safely.
3. Outlet Face plates That Are Warm To The Touch
Heat is a symptom of resistance caused by excessive electrical load operating on an outlet, improperly sized wiring or a loose electrical connection. Note that It's common for dimmer switches to be warm. Unless the face plate itself is actually too hot to touch, a warm dimmer switch or dial is not a sign of a problem in most cases.
4. Loose Switches and Outlets
Loose switches or outlet that are not properly mounted to the electrical box could cause overheating and a short circuit. Shut off power to the switch or outlet, remove the faceplate and ensure that it is securely attached to the stud.
5. GFCI Outlets That Trip Repeatedly
If an appliance or tool repeatedly trips a GFCI, try plugging it into another GFCI outlet. If it keeps tripping the circuit, the appliance or tool may be the problem. If it works, the ground fault or GFCI outlet receptacle is likely defective and should be replaced.
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Electrical Tips & Advice
Wednesday, 23 June 2021 18:42
Improve the Air Quality In Your Home With Ventilation Fans
Written by MR PlumbingDo you find that you're opening windows in a bathroom that gets too hot and steamy? Does your kitchen get so smokey it sets off your smoke alarms? Does your living room have high ceilings that make it too cold in the winter and too hot in the summer. The solution to all these problems is improved ventilation.
Fans play an important role in maintaining a comfortable, healthy indoor environment. They remove odors and excess humidity, help your central heating and cooling system work more efficiently and provide evaporative cooling.
Whole-House Fans
Whole house fans are designed to circulate air throughout a home's ductwork. It is sometimes confused with an attic ventilator fan (see below), which exhausts hot air from the attic to the outside through an opening in the roof. In some cases, a whole house fan can take the place of a home's air conditioning system by circulating air during times of the year when it's not too hot, particularly when combined with ceiling fans.Bathroom Exhaust Fans
A bathroom exhaust fan is designed to remove stale, humid air from bathrooms, laundry rooms and other enclosed spaces with high humidity. They improve air quality and reduce the likelihood of mold and mildew growth. Bathroom fans are also helpful in laundry rooms, where clothes washers and driers can generate a lot of heat and humidity in enclosed spaces.When installing any kind of exhaust fan it's important to ensure that the fan is ducted to the exterior of the house and not into the attic.
Attic Fans
Most attics are not connected to a home's ventilation system for heating and cooling. An attic fan, also called an attic ventilator, regulates the heat level of a home's attic by exhausting hot air, which in turn helps your home's heating and cooling system work more efficiently. They are usually controlled by a thermostat that automatically turns the fan off and on, or less frequently they are controlled by a manual switch. An attic fan can be gable mounted or roof mounted.Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are a popular choice for improving airflow in rooms, as well as serving as lighting fixtures and enhancing room decor. While a ceiling fan doesn't actually lower the temperature, it circulates the conditioned air where it's needed most and provides evaporative cooling.Have fan questions? Give MR Plumbing a call. We install all types of ventilation fans.
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Wednesday, 14 April 2021 16:43
Electrical Warning Signs - When to Call an Electrician
Written by MR PlumbingElectrical Warning Signs - When to Call an Electrician
Electrical problems often go unnoticed until there is a significant problem, such as a short circuit, a tripped breaker, or in the worst case, an electrical fire. By paying attention to the warning signs of an outdated or malfunctioning electrical system, and calling an electrician before major problems occur, you can ensure your home will be safe from electrical hazards such as fires and accidental electrocution.
1. Electrical Service Panel
A common problem with older homes is an undersized service panel. The electrical needs of a 1950s household were quite different from today's households. An undersize service panel will not only limit a home's functionality, it can cause safety problems. At minimum, the panel should be rated for 200-amps.
2. Worn Out Wiring
Fiberglass-insulated wiring is commonly found in older homes and can fray over time, exposing the wire and increasing the odds of a malfunciton. Check where the wires pass through the walls and ceiling joists, these are the most common problem areas.
3. Ungrounded Circuits
Even if electrical receptacles have a ground prong a plug-in voltage tester should be used to make sure they are in fact grounded. The plug-in tester will also alert you if the polarity is wrong or if the circuit has other wiring problems like a lost neutral or a lost feed. All two-prong circuits should be upgraded to three-prong grounded outlets.
4. Dimming of Flickering Lights
Check for lights that are dim or blinking. Dimming bulbs are often a sign that there are voltage changes occurring in the circuit. A licensed electrician should inspect the circuit for loose wiring or other issues.
5. Loose Wire Connections
Inspect junction boxes to ensure the wiring is well connected. Don't touch the wiring, just inspect it. If you find potential problems, turn off the breaker and call an electrician.
6. Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors are required on every floor of the house. If the detectors are not working, install new 9-volt batteries and re-test them to ensure they are functioning.
7. GFCI Receptacles
GFCI receptacles should be installed in areas where electrical appliances are more likely to come in contact with water, such as bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outside of the home.
8. Burn Marks
Look for signs of burning or scorching around receptacles, light switches and light fixtures. If scorch marks are visible, the circuit experienced a short at some time. Ensure that the circuit was properly repaired or the broken receptacle or switch was professionally repaired.
9. Inadequate Electrical Circuits
If you're replying on extension cords to plug in appliances, or are frequently resetting tripped breakers, it's a sign that your electrical system is not adequate for your electrical needs. Have your electrician install additional outlets and upgrade you electrical panel to match your needs.
Need a professional electrical inspection? Call MR Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric. We're here to help.
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Electrical Tips & Advice
Electrical Outlet Upgrades For the Home
A typical American home has around 80 electrical outlets. While the most common type of receptacle is a two-plug, 3-prong rated at 15 amp, 125 volts, there are dozens of outlet types available. Most electrical outlet upgrades are made for safety and convenience, here are some of the most common.
GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter) Outlets
One of the most important electrical safety devices, a Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter is designed to detect a ground fault that could lead to electrocution. For example, if a hairdryer were to accidentally fall into a bathtub full of water the GFCI would immediately detect the change in current and cut the power, preventing electrocution. GFCI outlets are required by the electrical code to be installed in high-risk locations such as bathrooms.AFCI (Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter) Outlets
Often used in combination with a GFCI, arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) receptacles use a circuit breaker to detect electric arcing. When an electrical arc condition is detected, it cuts power to prevent overheating, which could cause an electrical fire. AFCI outlets are required by the electrical code and should be installed by a qualified electrician.Switch/Outlet Combos Receptacles
In most cases, adding an additional switch or outlet to an existing electrical box is simple and no additional wiring is needed.20 Amp, 250 Volt Outlets
These heavy duty receptacles are used where large appliances like electric ranges are located, or in garages or workshop where power equipment like table saws and other heavy duty equipment are used.USB Outlets
Having a USB port built in to outlets can be a nice convenience in home offices and other locations where smart phones, digital assistants, tablets and other devices are used. USB outlets eliminate the need for bulky adapters while freeing up extra outlets.Recessed Outlets
Recessed outlets are perfect for walls where furniture or appliances will be located in tight spaces. They are commonly installed behind refrigerators, washer and dryers, and wall mounted cabinet microwaves.Tamper-Resistant Receptacles (TRR)
If you have young kids in your household tamper-resistant receptacles are an essential safety device. While cheap plastic outlet covers are popular, research has shown that kids as young as two years old can easily remove them. Tamper resistant outlets are just like an ordinary outlet, but include a built-in safety mechanism that prevents anything other than an electrical plug from being inserted and activating the current.LED Night Light Outlets
LED night lights are a convenient accessory for the kids's room, hallways and bathrooms. They can be used with a motion detector, or be set to light up when it's dark. They are inexpensive, use very little electricity and will last around 20 years.Outdoor Outlets
Running extension cords around your yard and driveway isn't just a chore, it can be a safety hazard. Installing a few extra outdoor covered outlets solves the problem. If you decorate your home with holiday lights, you'll appreciate having outlets within easy reach.These are just a few of the outlets available to add convenience and safety to your home. Call MR Plumbing Heating Air & Electrical today for help with all your electrical upgrade needs.
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Tuesday, 03 November 2020 21:55
Electrical Upgrades To Consider When Remodeling Your Home
Written by MR PlumbingElectrical Upgrades To Consider When Remodeling Your Home
If you're giving your home a complete makeover, or just simply planning to upgrade your decor or appliances within your living quarters, it's a great time to consider upgrading your electrical system as well.Home repair and remodeling projects often require some sort of electrical upgrade. Do you have receptacle outlets overburdened by multi-plug strips? Are your lamps and fixtures connected to extension cords? Does every three-prong plug need a two-prong adapter? These and other warning signs indicate a real need for electrical improvements. Here are a few points to consider:
- Is your service panel up-to-date? Many older homes still operate with outdated 60-amp electrical service, and sometimes with just a few fuses or circuit breakers to protect the entire system. Newer homes often have 100-amp service panels, but even this minimum requirement set by many current codes may fall short of your present or future needs. Consider upgrading service to 200 amps.
- Size for extra demand. If you're installing a major electrical appliance, like an electric wall oven, a microwave oven, a double-wide refrigerator or central air-conditioning, think about the additional power it may need. While a salesman or installer might tell you that your system can handle the load, be smart and ask your electrician for a second opinion.
- Electricians often install 14-AWG wiring during renovations, which is adequate for most home uses. But heavier 12-AWG copper wire is a better choice because it's more energy-efficient and you won't have to upgrade all over again if you install appliances or fixtures with greater electrical loads. The cost difference for upgrading to 12-AWG copper wire is minimal. If you're adding a room extension or building a new home, it's a good idea to install 12-AWG wire (or larger, depending on the needs of each circuit).
- Consider special needs. Different rooms in a home serve different purposes—an important consideration when you're planning improvements, especially where electrical work is involved. Family rooms, home offices and home theaters generally need more circuits, more outlets, and built-in or plug-in power-surge protection. Outlets in kitchens, baths, garages and outdoor areas require ground-fault circuit interrupters, or GFCIs. And you don't have to wait for a major renovation to add protection—you can install many safety devices yourself, such as outlet caps, switch guards and wire shields in nurseries and children's playrooms.
- And finally, don't forget your communications wiring needs—make sure telephone wiring is rated Category 5 or better to assure speedy data mission, high-quality voice service and convenient installation as you add telephone-based services in the future.
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Electrical Tips & Advice
Whether you're giving your home a complete makeover, or just planning on upgrading your fixtures or appliances within your living quarters, it's a great time to also consider upgrading your electrical system.
Do you have receptacle outlets overburdened by multi-plug strips? Are your lamps and fixtures connected to extension cords? Does every three-prong plug need a two-prong adapter? These and other warning signs indicate a real need for electrical improvements. Here are a few points to consider:
1. Is your service adequate? Many older homes still operate with outdated 60-amp electrical service, and sometimes with just a few fuses or circuit breakers to protect the entire system. Newer homes often have 100-amp service panels, but even this minimum requirement set by many current codes may fall short of your present or future needs. Consider upgrading service to 200 amps.
2. Is your service sized for extra demand? If you're installing a major electrical appliance, like an electric wall oven, a microwave oven, a double-wide refrigerator or central air-conditioning, think about the additional power it may need. While a salesman or installer might tell you that your system can handle the load, be smart and ask your electrician for a second opinion.
Electricians often install 14-AWG wiring during renovations, which is adequate for most home uses. But heavier 12-AWG copper wire is a better choice because it's more energy-efficient and you won't have to upgrade all over again if you install appliances or fixtures with greater electrical loads. The cost difference for upgrading to 12-AWG copper wire is minimal. If you're adding a room extension or building a new home, it's a good idea to install 12-AWG wire (or larger, depending on the needs of each circuit).
3. Consider special electrical needs. Different rooms in a home serve different purposes—an important consideration when you're planning improvements, especially where electrical work is involved. Family rooms, home offices and home theaters generally need more circuits, more outlets, and built-in or plug-in power-surge protection. Outlets in kitchens, baths, garages and outdoor areas require ground-fault circuit interrupters, or GFCIs. And you don't have to wait for a major renovation to add protection—you can install many safety devices yourself, such as outlet caps, switch guards and wire shields in nurseries and children's playrooms.
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Electrical Tips & Advice
Home electrical fires account for over 50,000 fires in the US each year. The Electrical Safety Foundation International reports that electrical fires cause more than 500 deaths, 1,400 injuries, and over a billion dollars in property damage. Older homes are particularly at risk. Because over half of the homes in the United States were built before 1973, this is a real concern.
To ensure your home is meeting the current electrical code in your area, call an MR Plumbing electrician. They will help identify the common culprits of electrical fires that may be hidden in your home’s electrical system.
Some of these dangers include:
Knob and Tube Wiring
This type of wiring was used from the 1800’s to the 1930’s in homes. Wires are run through ceramic tubes (or knobs) to prevent contact with wood framing. However, this type of wiring is now considered a fire hazard because it is not a grounded system. If your home has knob and tube wiring, it is highly recommended that you have your home re-wired.
Arc Faults
When any electricity is unintentionally released from home wiring or cords, it is known as an arc fault. Arc faults can be especially dangerous because the electricity released can cause the surrounding material to catch fire.
Common causes of arc faults:
Pinched wires – From a chair sitting on an extension cord or wires bent sharply
Overheated wires or cords – Too many lights or appliances connected to one circuit (your fuse box or circuit breaker should trip)
Improper electrical connections – Loose connections in an electrical light switch or outlet
Pierced wires – Nails and screws can sometimes pierce wiring hidden behind walls
Damaged wires or cords – Caused by rodents, age and heat
No Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters
Any electrical outlets that could come into contact with water should have ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) installed. These outlets improve safety by constantly monitoring the flow of electricity in and out of the circuit.
If the returning current differs even a small amount (like from coming in contact with water), the GFCI will shut of the electric current. This helps prevent deadly electric shocks and electrocution.
For maximum safety install GFCIs in bathrooms, the kitchen, laundry room, outside and anywhere else an outlet could come in contact with water.
Aluminum Wiring
Another risk in older homes is aluminum wiring. A national survey conducted by Franklin Research Institute showed that homes built before 1972, and wired with aluminum, are 55 times more likely to have one or more wire connections at outlets reach “Fire Hazard Conditions”1 than homes wired with copper.
A shortage of copper in the mid 1960s caused builders to increase the use of aluminum wire in residential electrical distribution systems from the few large-power circuits (i.e., for electric clothes dryers and ranges), to general purpose 15- and 20-ampere-rated circuits. Homes built before 1965 are unlikely to have aluminum branch circuit wiring.
Unfortunately, failing aluminum-wired connections seldom provide easily detected warning signs. Aluminum-wired connections and splices have been reported to fail and overheat without any prior indications or problems.
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Wednesday, 26 June 2019 18:05
How Old Electrical Systems Can Pose Safety Hazards In the Home
Written by MR PlumbingAround one-third of the homes in the U.S. are over 50 years old, and older homes are statistically at higher risk of electrical fires. The main reason older homes can be more dangerous is many were built with electrical systems which are no longer safe. Deterioration due to aging, improper installation and modification, a lack of modern safety devices, combined with today's electrical intensive households all combine to increase the risk of electrical fires.
By understanding what outdated wiring looks like, you can learn of your home is at greater risk. Depending on the age of the home, you will find one of three kinds of wiring.
Grounded Electrical Systems
Homes built in the 1940s through the present will have grounded electrical systems. Grounding is a critical safety feature that is designed to reduce the chance of shock or electrocution in the event of a short circuit. Grounding wires are connected directly to the earth through a metal grounding rod or a cold water pipe. Should a short circuit or an overload occur, any extra electricity will find its way along the grounding wire to the earth.Aluminum Wiring
As the price of copper soared, aluminum wiring became more common in the 1960s and 1970s. Many of the receptacles and switched of the time we not designed to work with aluminum wire, resulting in bad fitting connections and a greater risk of fire. If your home has aluminum wiring that was installed in the 1960s or 70s have M/R Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning & Electrical perform a safety inspection to ensure it is safe and up to code.Knob & Tube Wiring
The earliest type of wiring found in homes built in the 1800s through the 1930s, knob and tube wiring is an open air system that uses ceramic knobs to keep wires away from combustible framing. These suspended wires were directed through ceramic tubes to prevent contact with the wood framing and starting a fire. Knob and tube wiring is a fire hazard because it's not grounded and is more exposed to damage from old and faulty modification.Have questions about your home's wiring? Call M/R Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning & Electrical, we're here to help.
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Electrical Tips & Advice
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