Author: Long View Lighting

Your circuit breaker is a vital component of your home electrical installation needs. It helps prevent damage to the electrical wiring by tripping and cutting off the flow of electricity. The breaker acts in this capacity if it senses danger, like an overload. If your breaker has started tripping lately, you should know the reasons why it’s happening.

1. Overloading Circuit

Be careful how many things you plug into your home circuits. When there’s too much power running through any outlet or switch, it can cause electrical overheating. As a result, your breaker may begin to trip from such an overload. Too many appliances plugged in simultaneously can be a big culprit. If you have a home filled with people using technical devices, ensure everyone remembers to unplug things when not using or charging them.

2. Short Circuit

A short circuit usually happens by accident. When a hot wire comes in contact with a neutral or ground wire, an electrical flow can happen. You should always be aware of any frayed or damaged wires lingering somewhere. A local electrician can make sure everything is okay during an inspection.

3. Faulty Wiring

You may have damaged external wiring and not be aware of it until something happens. A thorough home inspection is essential to your electrical installation needs. A local electrician will check for signs of frayed wires, exposed cables, and other related wear and tear. If you live in an older home that hasn’t had a recent inspection, call a professional to be safe.

4. Exceeded Capacity

According to The Spruce, a typical single-family home has a circuit breaker panel capacity of 200 amps, although some newer homes may have a capacity of 300 or 400 amps. The breaker can easily trip if your amp usage is too high. A system upgrade may be part of your electrical installation needs if you and your family exceed the limit, which is easy to do with many electronics and appliances.

5. Moisture or Water Damage

Has your breaker been exposed to moisture lately? It may happen due to inclement weather like storms and floods. A leak anywhere near the breaker can also set it off. Add additional waterproofing to your home if you need to.

There can be many reasons why your circuit breaker keeps tripping. Always practice safe and responsible electrical usage, but don’t be afraid to call a professional when the breaker gets out of control. If unsure about the cause of your breaker trip, contact our local team of electricians at Long View Lighting for assistance.

Electrical shorts often seem to happen randomly and come and go without warning. However, any good electrician will tell you there’s no true mystery to frequent shorts. They’re often a symptom of a more persistent problem with a home’s electrical grid. Unfortunately, unmanaged shorts can lead to a higher fire risk. Fully understanding shorts, their causes, and prevention methods can minimize your risk.

What is an Electrical Short?

An electrical short occurs when excess electricity flows through a circuit and causes it to blow. Shorts may be temporary problems due to power surges and other short-term problems. However, chronic electrical shorts indicate a potential issue with a home’s electrical system.

For instance, “hot” wires, or those with too much electricity flowing through them, may cause too much electrical flow to a circuit. Poorly ground wires may trigger this problem, as can issues with electricity management. Understanding these causes can help you better diagnose and manage them.

What Causes an Electrical Short?

Electrical shorts have many causes, including too many or too few power outlets for a home. According to HomelyVille, a 12×14 foot room (standard for most homes) needs at least 4 to 6 electrical outlets. Too few will trigger a short by causing power to flow too narrowly in a room.

Other causes of shorts include aged wiring, damaged or weakened wire insulation, and incorrect wiring. When they occur, shorts can damage a home’s general electrical system. As a result, you need to get help from an electrician you can trust to handle these repairs effectively.

Can I Prevent Electrical Shorts?

Preventing electrical shorts requires little work. For example, you should avoid using excessive power bars in your room. Too many power bars can cause a heavy strain on your electrical system by plugging in more items than it can handle. Stick to one per outlet to minimize this risk.

You should also avoid running power cables under carpets, keep them away from heat, avoid water sources, and inspect them regularly. DIY inspection may help spot obvious problems but will only prevent some things. As a result, it’s critical to work with a professional that you can trust.

If you need an electrician to help with electrical shorts in your home, we’re here to help. Our team of contractors at Long View Lighting understands electrical issues and will provide the in-depth attention you need. For example, we can do a top-to-bottom home inspection to identify short risks. Then, we’ll eliminate these problems and help you better understand how to avoid them in the future.

According to Times Mojo, it’s typical for a home to require rewiring every 20 to 40 years. Residential electrician services are one area of home maintenance that shouldn’t be neglected. Electrical work should always be done by a professional electrician who is fully licensed and insured. This type of work should also be done promptly. Keep reading to find out more about why you shouldn’t procrastinate when it comes to residential electrical services.

Safety First

One of the most common ways that house fires start is through electrical problems. If your electrical system isn’t working properly, you’ll want to have the problem corrected as soon as possible. In addition to fires, there are a number of other issues that can occur when your system is faulty. A full power outage is possible if your system shorts out, leaving you without HVAC and the use of other key appliances. Don’t risk damaging your home or health by delaying electrical repairs.

Delaying Electrical Repairs Often Makes the Problem Worse

If you’re noticing flickering lights, or your power is going out for short bursts of time, it’s important to call an electrician right away. These seemingly small problems can quickly grow into bigger concerns. Just like so many other home maintenance and repair issues, it’s always better to have them fixed sooner rather than later. Waiting can cause major electrical issues which can be expensive to repair, so it’s much better to get them fixed when the situation is more manageable.

Electricians Are in Demand

Just like so many other tradespeople, electricians are in demand. As discussed above, the longer the problem is left unaddressed, the worse it can become. When you call to make an appointment, you may also get some advice on how to prevent the problem from getting worse. If you wait until you have a serious issue on your hands, it’ll likely cost a lot more money in the long run.

If you’re experiencing any electrical issues, turn to Long View Lighting today. Our residential electrician services are top-notch and our team can handle any of your residential electrical needs. From electrical repair to installation, we’ve got you covered.

Having a properly functioning breaker panel is essential to ensure the safety of your home and family. Failing to recognize that you need breaker panel service can lead to catastrophes like fires. Here are some of the signs that you need to call an electrician to service your breaker panel.

1. Sparks or Smoke Near the Breaker Panel

Sparks or smoke coming from the breaker panel is a sign of danger. It’s important to shut off the power immediately and contact an electrician for further examination. Not doing so can result in severe consequences such as electric shock or fire.

2. Frequent Tripped Breakers

If you notice that one or more of your circuit breakers are tripping regularly, there may be a bigger issue with your breaker panel. The problem may come from an overloaded circuit or a short in the wiring.

3. Burning Smell

Be aware of a burning odor coming from your breaker panel. A burning smell is serious as it means your wiring is overheating and may be damaged. Call an electrical professional as soon as possible to ensure a fire doesn’t erupt.

4. Breaker Panel is Old

If your breaker panel is more than 10 years old, the system may need to be serviced. With an older panel, it’s more likely that there will be outdated parts and wiring, which can be dangerous. An electrician can upgrade the panel with newer technology.

5. Increase in Electrical Usage

Do you see a significant increase in your electricity bills? Such an increase might come from an overloaded breaker panel. More appliances and electronics can cause your electricity usage to exceed the capacity of your breaker panel.

6. Lights Flickering

You may see flickering lights when your panel is overloaded or improperly wired. The flickering usually indicates a problem with the power supply, which an electrician will be able to diagnose and repair.

7. Over Capacity

According to The Spruce, a typical single-family home has a breaker panel capacity of 200 amps, although some newer homes may have a capacity of 300 or 400 amps. Make sure you’re aware of your breaker’s limitations to avoid any potential overloads and hazardous situations.

The last thing you need is a malfunctioning breaker panel. If you notice any of the above signs, it’s important to contact a professional for breaker panel service. Our team of electricians at Long View Lighting will be happy to check out your breaker panel!

Professional electrical installation services are always the safest way to get the electrical installation that you need. Electrical installation services can help you to choose the right outlets for your home and more. Here are some things you should consider when choosing outlets for your home.

The Common Residential Outlets

According to Bob Vila of This Old House fame, 15A, 120 volts are the most common residential outlets. These standard outlets can handle most household needs. Of course, there are cases when a standard 15A, 120V outlet is not the best option.

Keep reading to learn when you may need a different type of outlet for your home. Consulting with an electrical installation services company about unique situations can help you to get the right outlet for your needs.

GFCI Or AFCI: What’s the Difference?

Ground fault circuit interrupter outlets (GFCI outlets) come with a safety “switch.” This small built-in circuit breaker will trip the outlet and cut off electricity if moisture or an overload on the line is detected. These types of outlets are installed in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas to keep the user from being electrocuted. Typically, building codes require that these outlets are installed where an outlet is a specific number of feet from a water source like a sink or bathtub.

An arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) will trip if an electrical arc is detected. The AFCI can help to prevent electrical fires. They can be installed in any room in the house to reduce the risk of electrical fires.

Large Appliance Outlets

If you have an outlet installed to use with a large appliance like a clothes dryer, a standard 15A, 120-volt outlet will likely not get the job done. You will need a 240-volt outlet installed. Any appliance that generates heat, like a heat pump, clothes dryer, or water heater, will need a heavy-duty outlet to ensure safe operation.

It’s essential that the outlet that is being installed can be supported by the electrical wiring in your home. An experienced professional can tell you more about your wiring and if the outlet you need can be installed.

Safety should always be a priority for your home. Professional electrical installation services can ensure that you get the right outlet installed. Call Long View Lighting today to learn more about your options for electrical outlets.

There are many reasons you might want to consider electrical installation for new outlets. From making sure your family is safe to ensure they are in proper working order, it’s crucial to seek help from a qualified electrician for installation services. Below are some of the many reasons to get new outlets and electrical installation.

1. Not Enough Outlets

According to HomelyVille, a standard 12×14 foot room should ideally have at least four to six electrical outlets at minimum. While it might not seem like a big deal to just use extension cords, it’s not safe to overload outlets. If you have too many appliances or devices plugged in at the same time, it can be a fire hazard. It’s better to invest in new outlets and electrical installation services to ensure your family is safe.

2. Safety

Another important reason to consider electrical installation for new outlets is safety. If your existing outlets show signs of wear and tear, it’s best to invest in an upgrade right away. Faulty wiring can cause electric shock or even start a fire. Therefore, it’s essential to have a qualified electrician inspect the wiring before making changes.

3. Lighting the Room

When you install new outlets, it’s also a great chance to add some extra lighting to the room. You can use spotlights and dimmers for task and accent lighting, adding a layer of sophistication to your home. Moreover, you may want to consider adding recess lighting or ceiling fans for improved energy efficiency.

4. Aesthetic Appeal

Finally, having new outlets and electrical installation services can add to the aesthetic of your home. You’ll be able to choose from a variety of outlet styles and finishes that fit in with the design of your space. This will help increase the value of your property while also making it look more attractive. For instance, if you have missing outlet covers or outdated outlets, you might have homebuyers that are less interested in purchasing your home down the road.

Overall, investing in professional electrical installation for new outlets can help improve your home’s functionality, safety, and overall value. If you notice your home is in need of new outlets or you’re experiencing any issues with your existing outlets, turn to the professionals at Long View Lighting for reliable and efficient installation.

Electricity is a powerful force that makes life easier but it can also become dangerous if things aren’t running properly. If you suspect your residential electrical installation needs a rewiring, there are some telltale signs that you should be aware of.

1. Flickering Lights

One of the most obvious and concerning signs that you may need a residential electrical installation is flickering lights. If your lights are dimming or flickering, it could indicate a problem with wiring connections in your walls. It might also indicate an issue with the power supply from the utility company, but this is less common.

2. Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips

If you find yourself resetting your circuit breakers more often than usual, it could signal an overloaded circuit. When too much electricity is drawn from a circuit, the breaker may trip and shut off power to that circuit. This could be due to an old residential electrical installation that cannot handle the load or other wiring issues in your home.

3. Discolored Outlets

Outlets that are discolored or show signs of burning and melting are definite signs that your residential electrical installation needs rewiring. An overloaded circuit, which happens when too much electricity passes through the wiring in your home, may be the cause.

4.Sparks Or Burning Smells

If you detect sparks or burning smells coming from your residential electrical installation, it’s time to call an electrician. Sparks indicate can indicate a loose connection somewhere in the wiring, while a burning smell is usually caused by an overloaded circuit. Both of these issues can be dangerous and should be addressed immediately.

5. Old Wiring

If your residential electrical installation is over 10 years old, it may not be up to current safety standards. An electrician should update your wiring if you have knob-and-tube wiring in your home. Knob-and-tube wiring is outdated and unsafe. An electrician will be able to inspect the wiring and provide you with a safe, up-to-date residential electrical installation.

It’s important to stay alert for signs that your residential electrical installation needs to be rewired. If you detect any of the issues mentioned above, don’t hesitate to contact a certified electrician for help. According to IBISWorld, in 2022, there are 1,144,114 people working in the U.S. Electricians industry. This means you won’t have a problem finding an electrician for your needs. Contact Long View Lighting for an electrical company you can trust.

A professional electrician is someone highly-trained. According to the Refrigeration School, they often have to log 2,000 hours at an apprenticeship over five years. When it is time to bring on one of these professionals, ask the right questions before work commences. Whether you are getting residential or commercial electrical work done, here are some important questions to ask.

1. What Permits Are Required?

Depending on the electrical installation, the job may require certain permits. Your electrician should know what is required and help you obtain the necessary permissions. Failure to get the proper permits could result in delays and additional costs down the road. It may be a good idea to research this on your own as well. This way you can test the knowledge of the electrician.

2. What Materials Will You Use?

You want to ensure that the electrician is using high-quality materials. If the electrician is trying to cut corners by using cheaper materials, it’s best to find someone else for the job. The best way to ensure this would be to ask multiple people. This way you can be certain that they are using the right materials for the job.

3. What Is the Estimated Timeline?

You should always be clear about how long the electrical installation will take. A professional electrician can give you a rough estimate of the timeline. By doing this you are able to plan around the electrical work. However, keep in mind that unexpected complications can always arise and cause delays.

4. What Is the Warranty?

Be sure to ask about the warranty before hiring an electrician. Most reputable professionals will offer some guarantee on their work. It gives you peace of mind knowing that if something goes wrong, the electrician will be back to fix the problem at no cost to you. This is one of the more important questions as it will protect you in the future.

5. What Is the Cost?

Make sure to get a detailed estimate that includes the cost of materials and labor. Once you have this information, you can compare prices and make an informed decision. The cheapest service may not always be the best. That’s why it’s important to weigh all of the questions equally. If budget is the most important thing to you, however, you will need to know this information upfront.

Hiring a professional electrician is a big decision. Asking the right questions will help you find the best person for the job. With these questions, you can be sure that your electrical installation will be done correctly and efficiently. Get in contact with Long View Lighting today to learn more.

Our furry family members often get into things that they’re not supposed to. It’s important for pet parents to take extra care to keep their pets safe from electrical wiring. When animals chew up cables or wires, it can injure or kill them, and it may be necessary to call electricians for repairs. Electricians recommend that you follow these five tips to keep your pet safe from wires.

Keep Wires and Cords Hidden

Pets often find dangling wires and cords very tempting, especially if they’re young. Puppies and kittens often take a lot of joy in chewing and pulling on cords. An overzealous pet can pull on a cord until they topple the item it’s attached to right off the table. In these cases, electrocution is a very real possibility. Keeping cords hidden can spare you an emergency run to the vet, and you won’t need to call electricians in to fix things.

Unplug Unused Appliances

There are most likely several items in your house that you don’t need to keep plugged in when you’re not home. If you’re not using an appliance, it’s safest to unplug it. This way, if your fur baby gets a hold of the cord, they won’t get electrocuted. They may damage the cord, but at least they won’t hurt themselves in the process.

Keep Electronics Away From Water

We all know that water and electricity don’t mix, but does your dog or cat understand that? Probably not. Don’t leave electrical items near water sources. It only takes a second for a pet to knock an electrical device into the water. Electricians find that more people than you think leave electrical devices close to the water and wind up with a whole home burnout because of it.

Use Cord Covers

Exposed cords on flooring can pose a major safety risk to animals. If you need to have cords running across your floor, use cord corrals or cord covers to keep your pet out of harm’s way. Don’t hesitate to ask a trustworthy electrician for advice on what type of cord cover to use.

Set Boundaries for Your Pet Through Training

Disciplining pets can be difficult, but it’s highly necessary. No matter how adorable your pet is, it’s important that you reprimand them if they go near cords or electrical devices. They may feel upset at first, but this will help to keep them safe in the long run. Training them efficiently and setting clear boundaries will go a long way toward protecting them.

According to Ibis World, the average electrician business in the United States has about five employees. These businesses tend to be busy and may take some time to respond to calls. It’s best if you prevent problems before they occur by following the above tips. However, if you do end up needing electrical assistance, don’t hesitate to call Long View Lighting for assistance.