Tag: electrical

What Are Signs an Electrical Outlet Should Be Replaced?

Is It Time for an Electrical Outlet Replacement?

Electrical safety in the home is paramount, including taking care of electrical outlets. This blog post will share some telltale signs that it's time to call an electrician to inspect and replace electrical outlets because a faulty outlet can become a safety concern and should be replaced right away, ensuring that the home remains safe. 

A Damaged or Burned Outlet Faceplate

An outlet’s faceplate is an essential part of an outlet. Not only does the faceplate protect the electrical outlet’s wiring inside, but it can also show signs of problems with the outlet itself that indicate underlying problems requiring professional attention and an outlet replacement. 

A crack or damage on its surface merits replacement, as this allows dust and debris to get into the wiring and compromise the outlet’s safety. Burn or scorch marks that discolor it are also signs that the outlet is overheating and cannot provide a safe supply of electricity for the devices that are plugged in and creating demand. If the faceplate appears melted, it’s another sign to have it inspected and replaced. 

A Faulty Outlet or One That Can’t Keep Plugs in Place

outlet fall outWhen a device gets plugged into an outlet and doesn’t receive power, it’s worth looking at both the device and the outlet. If the device works when plugged into a different outlet, then the outlet could be faulty, and replacement is needed. But if the device can’t get power from any source in the room, it may be the outlets that are broken or another issue like a circuit breaker that has tripped. 

Another indicator of an outlet where replacement is required is if the plugs don’t fit snugly and are loose or falling out of place. If a power outlet can’t keep a plug in place, then the outlet may be too old and worn out, requiring an electrical outlet replacement.

An Outlet That’s Hot or Sparking

sparking outlet Other signs that homeowners should watch out for with their electrical outlets are sparks coming off the outlet, an outlet that feels hot, or plugs that feel hot to the touch. These can be warning signs of electrical hazards like overloading, short-circuiting, faulty wiring, and more. 

If any of these signs of a faulty outlet needing replacement are noticed, an electrician should be called to replace them and inspect for any other underlying electrical issues. Repairing these issues promptly can help prevent electrical fires, safeguarding homeowners’ loved ones and property. 

About Trustworthy Electric

Trustworthy Electric is a family-owned company that has been serving Montgomery, AL, and the surrounding areas since 1994. They provide upfront pricing, on-time service, and fully stocked trucks. Call them today for outlet repair and replacement in Montgomery, AL. 

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Electrical Home Improvements to Tackle in 2024

Home Upgrades for the New Year 

The new year is here, which means it is time to make some plans and set goals for what to accomplish in 2024. For homeowners, most plans will probably include something regarding home improvement to keep the home up-to-date and valuable. 

By making a few changes every year, homeowners can invest in their property and ensure it is always worth as much as possible. 

One of the things that most homeowners neglect is the electrical system. A stigma exists that prevents people from having their electrical infrastructure worked on, which ends up costing homeowners in the long run. 

This year, stop overlooking one of the best opportunities for home improvement. Take this advice from local electricians and make these upgrades to the electrical system. 

Put in Ceiling Fans

fanIn recent years, ceiling fans have fallen out of favor in new construction. Even in older homes, as fixtures were updated, many people have simply replaced the lighting and forgo the fan. While ceiling fans may have become less popular, they are no less important in a home. 

Ceiling fans are an essential part of the home for several reasons. First, the aesthetic value of fans is often overlooked. Instead of seeing them as bulky and unsightly, homeowners should use them to accentuate a space's style. 

Secondly, ceiling fans are vital to a heating and cooling strategy. By properly using a fan in the summer and winter, owners can increase the comfort of a space and save money on heating and cooling bills. Finally, a ceiling fan is an easy way to make a space more inviting. 

A ceiling fan creates the perfect microclimate for any activity, whether in a bedroom or sitting area. 

Upgrade Lighting and Switches 

Another excellent opportunity to improve the home in 2024 is to replace outdated lighting and switches. Great strides have been made in lighting that can enhance the look and feel of a space while also significantly reducing the energy needs of illumination. 

By upgrading indoor lighting to LEDs, homeowners can save a bundle and have ample light in every space. 

While the electricians are at it, why not upgrade the switches too? New LED lighting can benefit from dimmer switches. These unique devices allow for precise control of the lighting in a space so that the mood can be changed with the flip of a switch. 

Install an EV Charging Station 

charging stationsA thing that every homeowner is constantly striving for is savings. Energy prices are constantly rising, and gas prices are even more volatile, making people look for alternatives. One of the answers is electric vehicles. 

One of the main drawbacks to EVs is their charging needs. Most homes won’t be able to accommodate the load demanded by EVs without having some work done. Installing an EV charging station in the home can help owners have better control of their energy use and keep their bills low. 

About Trustworthy Electric

Trustworthy Electric can help every owner upgrade their home this year. With excellent service and upfront pricing, every project runs smoothly. Call today for electrical repairs or home improvements in Montgomery, AL. 

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Prevent Electrical Scares During Halloween Decorating

How to Prevent Electrical Problems During the Holidays 

The holiday season refers to the season starting just after Thanksgiving. Now, in anticipation of the season, many people start celebrating the holiday season starting at Halloween. With the change in the weather, there is excitement in the air, and people start going outside and hanging festive Halloween decorations and holiday lighting.

That means that the electrical safety season starts early, too. Electrical problems seem to cluster around the holiday season when people load the home’s power grid up with decorations. But that phenomenon can begin in October with all the Halloween decor. To avoid electrical problems during Halloween and the upcoming holiday season, take a few tips from electricians to keep the home safe. 

Take Care of Holiday Lighting and Electric Decorations 

Once a holiday is over, people put the holiday lights and decorations away, often cramming them in a box and then in storage. This rough handling can cause problems for lighting and decor, so before using any holiday decorations or lights, always take the time to: 

  • Inspect the cords and wiring for damage or fraying
  • Don’t use nails, staples, or other sharp things to hang lighting or electrical decor
  • Check for broken bulbs and damage to lights 

If any damage is found, those decorations should not be used. Taking a few extra moments to do these things before hanging and turning on Halloween decor and lights can ensure they are safe to use and don’t present an electrical hazard. 

Never Overload a Circuit 

overloaded outletOne of the most common electrical problems during Halloween and holidays, when decorating is expected, is overloading circuits. Each outlet and circuit in a home is only designed to handle a certain amount of power demand. When this level is exceeded, it can cause breakers to trip, fuses to blow, or wiring to overheat. 

The best way to prevent these complications and keep the home safe is to spread the electricity draw to multiple outlets and circuits. Additionally, if homeowners use extension cords for decorating, they should avoid overloading them and never chain them together. Also, upgrading holiday lighting to energy-efficient options like LED lights can reduce the chance of overloads. 

When Is Electrical Repair Needed? 

electrical repairThere may be times when decorating that homeowners notice signs electrical repair is needed because they are paying more attention to their electrical system. Once any symptoms of electrical issues are detected, an electrician should be called for electrical repair immediately to protect the home from electrical fires and other hazards. Some of the signs that people need electrical repairs are: 

  • Flickering or dimming lights
  • Outlets that don’t work or appear damaged
  • Sparks or shocks from outlets 
  • Outlets that feel hot to the touch
  • Tripped breakers or blown fuses
  • Frayed wiring
  • Buzzing sounds
  • Burning smells

About Trustworthy Electric

Trustworthy Electric has more than 25 years of expertise serving Montgomery and the surrounding areas. They offer upfront pricing, on-time service, and a beneficial membership plan. Call them today for electrical repairs in Montgomery, AL.

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Is There a Problem With the Electrical Wiring? Here's How to Tell

How to Spot Faulty Wiring

Keeping homes safe is a top priority for homeowners, which means ensuring that all systems are functioning properly, especially a home’s wiring and electrical system. This is especially important since electrical problems are a common cause of house fires.

And with over half of homes in the U.S. built before 1980, the chances of fires stemming from older wiring that hasn’t been updated to current safety standards go up significantly. In order to prevent this and keep homes safe, homeowners should be aware of the following signs of an electrical wiring problem to resolve them as safely and quickly as possible.

Circuit Breakers That Trip Often

A tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse happens every once in a while at home. These are both, after all, safety measures that are designed to protect homes by stopping the flow of electricity when there is too much of it all at once. However, if this becomes a common occurrence at home, it could signal a bigger problem with the electrical wiring that needs to be resolved. 

Sometimes, this just means one or two appliances should be removed from the circuit that is being overloaded and plugged into a different circuit. However, if this doesn’t work, homeowners should get a professional electrician to inspect and fix the wiring and circuit breaker or fuse box to eliminate the possibility of developing a fire hazard.

Outlets Are Discolored or Hot to the Touch

OutletScorch marks around an outlet or if they feel hot to the touch is another red flag for electrical wiring. After all, where there is smoke, there’s fire, and these are outward signs that there is loose or faulty wiring behind the outlet that is causing some kind of burning action when a device or appliance is plugged in. 

This usually happens because damaged wiring sends more electricity than is needed to the outlet, and this extra energy can fry devices or, in more extreme cases, cause a fire. So, any burn marks on outlets or ones that feel warm should be a sign to call an electrician immediately. 

It Smells or Sounds Like Trouble

Bad smell Another way to tell that there has been significant damage to a home’s electrical wiring is the presence of a distinct burning smell around an electrical outlet. The smell is usually similar to burning plastic and indicates wiring that has had some fire damage. Sometimes, this burning smell is also accompanied by a buzzing sound. 

Whether by itself or present together, the smell of burning or the sound of buzzing is always an indication of trouble. Homeowners who experience this are advised to immediately unplug their appliances and call an electrician to deal with the situation safely.

About Trustworthy Electric

Trustworthy Electric is a family-owned company that has been serving Montgomery and the surrounding areas since 1994. They offer upfront pricing, military discounts, and a beneficial membership plan. Call them today for wiring repair and replacement in Montgomery, AL.

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Stay Safe During Electrical Safety Month

Practice Electrical Safety All Year Long

May is National Electrical Safety Month, so this is the perfect time to learn about some of the devices around the home that help keep homes and businesses safe from the hazards of electricity. This brief article can help homeowners understand and appreciate what goes into keeping a home safe from electrical hazards. 

Recognize Important Electrical Safety Devices 

electricalDespite the inherent dangers of electricity, technology has made the utility much safer in the last few decades. Most of this is due to the development of regulating devices that prevent electrical hazards like fires and electrocution. Some common electrical devices in homes that must stay in working order are: 

  • Ground fault circuit interrupters, or GFCIs, are a type of outlet located in areas with moisture, such as outdoors, bathrooms, and kitchens, to prevent electric shocks and electrocutions.
  • Fuses protect circuits from receiving too much power, helping prevent electrical fires, but they must be replaced once the fuse blows.
  • Circuit breakers are similar to fuses and trip to prevent too much power from flowing through a circuit, preventing overheating or fires, but they don’t need to be replaced every time like a fuse. 

Warning Signs of Overloaded Circuits 

One common electrical problem in homes is an overloaded circuit. Historically the problem has been much worse, but with advances in breaker panels, the phasing out of fuses, and the wide acceptance of circuit breaker technology, homeowners are more aware of overloaded circuits in the home. 

But, even with these advanced devices in nearly every home, overloaded circuits can still be problematic. Overloaded circuits can cause complications like burnt wiring and electrical fires, so it’s important to know the warning signs so an electrician can be called. Common signs of an overloaded electrical circuit are: 

  • Flickering or dim lights
  • Burnt smells 
  • A buzzing or sizzling sound from outlets
  • Constantly tripping breakers
  • Outlets that look burned or are hot to the touch

Whole-House Surge Protection 

surgePower surges are a normal occurrence on an electrical grid. They can be the result of several causes, such as a weather-related event like a lightning strike or sudden drops in demand for power from the grid. When these occur, large spikes in voltage, many times the normal amount, can surge into the home's wiring. Electrical devices, especially digital devices like phones, entertainment systems, and computers, are particularly vulnerable to damage from large voltage spikes. When the power surge causes wiring insulation to melt, it can also cause fires. 

Installing a whole-house surge protector can protect sensitive devices throughout the entire home from damage from power surges, saving homeowners from paying for replacement electronics. These devices can also prevent electrical fires from voltage spikes while keeping all devices plugged into the home’s outlets safe from damage. 

About Trustworthy Electric 

Trustworthy Electric has nearly 30 years of experience serving Montgomery and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, on-time service, and fully stocked trucks. Call them today for electrical or GFCI outlet services in Montgomery, AL.

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