Blogs & News
What Is Knob and Tube Wiring?
Knob and tube wiring, now obsolete, was installed from the early 1900s to the 1940s, to as late as the 1970s in some areas. The knob and tube (K&T) format is not compliant with today’s electrical standards. If an older home has never been rewired, you should consult a Los Angeles electrician to determine if you have K&T [...]
Benefits of Having Outdoor Outlets
Outdoor outlets have become a common feature of modern homes, but many homeowners aren’t familiar with their benefits. Outdoor electrical products are certainly a convenience. Are you concerned with the safety aspects of plugging in your electronics outdoors? This is not a problem with GFCI outlets; a ground fault circuit interrupter cuts the power when there’s a current [...]
What Is the Function of My Circuit Breaker?
Electricity, often taken for granted, is extremely volatile—one overheated wire or surge can end in disaster. A circuit breaker is designed to prevent trouble. It is an automatic circuit protection system that monitors the circuit it is connected to. Should there be an overload, the breaker will “trip”, or instantly shut off the affected circuit. Here is an [...]
Why Not to DIY Your Home’s Electrical Work
It seems simple enough. A few hours’ work should fix those flickering lights, power surges, bad wiring, or a faulty breaker. At first, all is going well, and then—ZAP! DIY home electrical work is dangerous. Without the proper training and tools, you can be severely injured or killed. These are among the many reasons you should avoid DIY [...]
What to Look Out for Regarding Electrical When Purchasing a Home
There’s a lot to look out for when buying a home. Aside from its size, layout, and where it’s located, your potential new home may have hidden issues that need to be addressed. For example, electrical repairs may be needed or else you may face serious problems later. While you should have a professional inspector check the electrical [...]
Why Is My Electric Bill So High This Winter?
You may have noticed your electric bill is higher than usual this winter. If you have a high electric bill, the reasons vary. Electricity customers often worry that something may be wrong. While that’s entirely possible, greater electricity use in winter tends to raise electric bills. Heaters, hot showers, and other means to stay warm use more electricity. [...]
Aluminum vs. Copper Wiring
Wiring for your home may be aluminum or copper. There are advantages and disadvantages to each, while the popularity of aluminum wires for home electrical installations as waxed and waned over the years. Today, copper wiring is more commonly used in homes. But some still debate the advantages of using aluminum. Why Use Aluminum? Aluminum wiring, despite some [...]
Why Does My Smoke Detector Chirp at Night?
Smoke detectors are among the most important safety devices in the home. Statistics from the National Fire Protection Association, based on 2012-2016 data, reveal 40% of home fire related deaths happened in residences without smoke alarms, while 17% of deaths occurred where alarms weren’t working. About 25% of device failures were caused by dead batteries. In 43% of [...]
Electric Over Gas Heating
At some point, every homeowner will need to replace their furnace. When you do, there are basically two options; an electric heater or gas heater. Your choice depends on a few factors, including cost, efficiency, and where you live. If you’re weighing the decision of gas vs. electric heating, here’s a look at both to help you decide: [...]
Dangers of Counterfeit Electrical Products
Counterfeit electrical products are problematic worldwide. An estimated 5 to 7 percent of consumer electrical components on the world market may be counterfeited. Even some electricians may be deceived by brands that appear legitimate. A counterfeit product can be dangerous if installed during electrical repairs or routine service. Many counterfeit electrical goods are copies of common protective devices. [...]