Handyman or Electrician? The difference might shock you.
Our increasingly busy lifestyles can easily be thrown off kilter when something around the house breaks down. You may know someone who does all kinds of repairs and can take on your latest emergency. Some handymen say they can do it all: electrical work, plumbing, anything. But, that isn’t necessarily true and it could be an expensive mistake.
There are 48 million adults over age 65 or 15% of the population of the United States. According to the National Fire Prevention Agency, adults over age 65 have the highest risk of death from fire, nearly 3% higher than the average population.
There are times when using an electrical cord outside is a necessity. If you run a pool filter, use cleaning devices or power tools, you’ll need an electrical cord. Be sure to follow these safety tips when using electrical devices outside.
Start by having the correct covering installed to protect your outside receptacles from the elements. Many older homes only have a hinged cover that covers the outlet itself. The National Electrical Code now mandates bubble or flip-up covers that protect both the receptacle and the cord when it’s plugged in. These covers keep out the elements and protect you from nasty shocks as well.
Buying online can be a shopper’s paradise. The almost limitless number of sellers fighting for their share of consumer dollars can mean low, low prices. But, is cheaper always better? Not when it comes to electrical products. When you’re searching for the lowest price, quality and safety can be compromised. Before you hit the “Buy Now” button, here are a few things to take into consideration.
The internet is convenient when shopping but it also means that less than honest sellers can hide from unwary consumers. Companies that sell substandard goods can disappear into the internet ether and you’re stuck with a poor quality product. If you choose an off-brand retailer, you have no way of knowing whether the supplies you purchase are up to code or built using authentic, safe materials.
Most everyone has heard the expression that software has “bugs” in it that cause it to malfunction. That expression was coined during the early days of mainframe computers when actual bugs got into the system and damaged delicate electronics.
Bugs and other pests can do the same thing to your, but with a little knowledge and preventative measures, you can keep them from causing real problems. An infestation of mice or rats can be particularly damaging because they gnaw on wires which can start potentially devastating fires. When the weather cools off, all manner of varmints look for warm, sheltered places to hide.
The sun may be shining and the temperatures are high, but now is the time to start thinking about winter weather. Cold temperatures bring electrical challenges and it’s better to plan now than get left out in the cold. Read on and see how prepared you are for the coming season.
When the weather gets cold, both man and beast look for a warm place. Rodents and other small varmints are attracted to the warmth of your electrical wires. Chewing and nibbling on wires can mean a short lifespan for the furry guests, but it can also put your home in danger. Have a professional come out and check for signs that outdoor creatures are moving into your home.
If you’ve ever been exposed to humming or buzzing noises for any length of time, you know how annoying it can be. These little noises can be irritating, but they can also be a sign that you need to check your home’s wiring of a home.
The first step is tracking down the source of the humming. It can be tricky, but with some determination and patience, you may locate it. Start by turning off televisions, radios, computers, and any other devices that can create noise.
Electric cars or hybrids are growing in popularity. In a recent study by AAA, 20% of those surveyed said their next car will be an electric vehicle. Whether your electric vehicle (EV) purchase is next month or next year, it’s a good idea to consider the energy needs required to charge those new wheels at home.
While most electric cars can be plugged into a standard 120-volt outlet, you may need to upgrade your home’s electrical system to accommodate the added electrical load. This is especially a concern if your home is more than 20 years old. Do you have to upgrade your system? It depends.
According to the American Housing Survey, homeowners spent a whopping $383 billion on home improvements in 2017. While many projects can be done by homeowners with a little information and access to the right YouTube video, there are jobs that should be left to the experts and that includes most electrical projects.
Flickering lights can be annoying, but shouldn’t be ignored. It may be as simple as replacing a bulb or tightening a loose fixture. But, it could also be a sign of a more serious electrical problem. Flickering lights can’t be totally eliminated because the power coming into your home from outside fluctuates. However, there are a variety of situations when a simple fix will solve the problem.