Category: Electrical

What is a surge protector? Surge protectors act as protective devices that prevent current spikes and power surges from damaging the electronics in a home. Learn more about these devices by reaching out to an electrician in Woodstock, GA. 

The team at Long View Lighting can answer all your questions about surge protectors. Call us at 770-790-3511. 

Defining a Surge Protector

Surge protectors are safety appliances. They protect electronic devices when you plug the devices into them. Many surge protectors look like long, thin strips of plugs for electronic devices. 

However, not every power strip acts as a surge protector. Power strips only provide you with extra outlets. They do not have a joules rating and therefore cannot provide protection from electrical surges. 

Check the product’s label to see if the company listed it as a surge protector. 

Different Kinds of Surge Protectors

Not all surge protectors offer the same protection against lightning and power spikes. You can examine the relative protection different surge protectors provide by checking out their joules rating. 

A higher joules rating means a surge protector offers more protection in a surge. You may want to purchase a protector with a higher joules rating, especially if you plan to use it with expensive electronic equipment. 

Functions of a Surge Protector

Electronic devices count on a constant electrical voltage to work correctly. If they get too little electricity, they stop working. On the other hand, devices that get a sudden rush of too much electricity can end up fried and ruined. 

Many people plug their devices directly into a wall outlet. These outlets provide energy, but they do not guarantee a consistent distribution of electricity. Instead, they simply deliver whatever amount of energy they carry, regardless of its potential to damage electronic devices. 

How Does a Surge Protector Work?

Surge protectors offer a layer of protection. You plug the protector into the wall outlet and your devices into the surge protector. The surge protector routes unsafe amounts of energy away from electronic devices, sending it to a grounding wire. 

Most surge protectors have a Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) that limits possible voltage to electronic devices. These protectors may destroy themselves if exposed to large enough jolts of electricity, but they prevent damage to electronics, like computers or game systems. 

Additionally, many surge protectors contact Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS) batteries. These batteries may provide power in a power outage, keeping electronic devices working. Using a surge protector properly can help you avoid the need for electrical repair and troubleshooting services. 

When to Use a Surge Protector

What is a surge protector? It’s a device designed to protect electronics from damage caused by electric surges. Many property owners feel unsure when they need surge protectors, however. 

Generally, the experts recommend considering the nature of each electronic device before getting a surge protector. For example, you likely don’t need one of these devices for a bedside lamp. An electric surge could blow out the bulb on a light but not cause significant issues. 

A surge could cause significant damage to a computer, however. A single surge could erase data or reduce the life of the computer. Therefore, the experts recommend plugging any high-end electronics, including gaming consoles, into a surge protector. 

Risks of Not Using a Surge Protector

Surge protectors prevent high-voltage currents from reaching and damaging electronic equipment. Unfortunately, homeowners who do not use surge protectors can end up losing their devices in a single electrical event. 

Unregulated feeds of electricity also have long-term detrimental effects on electronic devices. These devices often slowly decline in efficacy as they get exposed to fluctuations in power levels and small surges that cause steadily increasing damage. 

Surge protectors typically represent a cost-effective way to protect electronics because homeowners can easily move them to outlets that need additional protection. 

Speak to the Experts About Surge Protectors

What is a surge protector? These devices protect electronics from power surges. Learn more about home rewiring services to mitigate the effects of electricity variance with Woodstock electrical contractors. 

Call the team at Long View Lighting at 770-790-3511 to discuss surge protectors in Woodstock, GA.

Adding outdoor lighting to your residential home creates an aesthetically pleasing facade many homeowners seek. Outdoor lighting also provides security and safety for you and your loved ones. Outdoor lighting systems vary by use, style, and more.

There are many different types of outdoor light. But all require preventative maintenance to continue properly lighting up your outdoor space for a more extended period. Whether you’re using outdoor security lights to keep your home safe or simply lighting up your covered porch to enjoy your outdoor space, follow our guide to outdoor lighting for longer-lasting outdoor lights.

At-home lighting maintenance is a great way to care for your lights, but some situations require professional assistance. Call Woodstock’s trusted lighting contractor for professional-grade service for any outdoor or indoor lighting service.

Clean Your Lights Periodically

Outdoor lighting requires periodic cleaning, just as any home item does. The difference is that outdoor lighting can quickly accumulate sediment because of the outdoor elements, especially if you live in a section of the country that regularly experiences the harsh variation of all four seasons.

Autumn leaves and summer insects can create quite a muck on outdoor lights. Additionally, winter snow and sleet generate the risk of moisture getting trapped in your lighting system. Any climate will have debris buildup or moisture risks for your outdoor lighting. Periodically cleaning your outdoor lights will help to reduce the likelihood that buildup or moisture from the elements will lead to further issues.

To remove debris from lights, use a glass cleaner on each lens. This gentle and effective method will not leave a filmy residue or scratch the lights. Use a damp cloth for the light casing and wire to gently remove any dirt or debris.

If you find that your outdoor lighting system requires a little more TLC than just a routine cleaning, hire a trusted lighting contractor to inspect your outdoor lighting system.

Use the Proper Timer Settings

Different times of the year require different outdoor lighting settings. The sun rises later and sets earlier in the winter, so your lights will be on for longer. Conversely, the extended daylight hours of summertime mean there is less need for outdoor lighting. However, the summer comes with pleasant temperatures that encourage outdoor events. If you’re entertaining under outdoor lighting frequently in the summertime, be sure to use a timer that will turn off your lights when the party is over.

By setting a timer for your outdoor lighting systems, you are saving on energy without having to remember to shut off your lights yourself. Setting a timer will also improve the lifespan of your outdoor lighting system.

Put your outdoor lighting on the proper setting in any season to keep them lasting longer. Selecting the appropriate light setting will also save you money on energy costs. Many outdoor lighting systems have both a winter and a summer setting to make it easy to switch to the proper setting for each season. Updating your timer setting will help prevent your light bulbs from burning out too soon, thus avoiding having to change your bulbs frequently.

Change the Bulbs as Necessary

Many things can affect the lifespan of your light bulbs. As mentioned above, setting a timer and not leaving your outdoor lights on when not in use will help to lengthen the lifespan of your outdoor lights. Other environmental conditions like temperature changes, extreme weather, or moisture exposure will affect the frequency of having to change out your light bulbs.

LED lights tend to last longer and are typically more energy efficient. If you’ve reached the point of bulb burnout, consider replacing your outdoor light bulbs with an LED option.

Consider hiring a professional if your outdoor lighting requires putting yourself in a dangerous position like climbing on a roof.

Bury the Wires

Exposed wires can be hazardous. Avoid accidents by burying any wiring around your home. Exposed wires can cause outages or even human injury. When you install your outdoor lighting, take care to bury any wires that are at ground level.

Make sure to regularly check that all wiring has remained buried. Sometimes heavy snow or rain can cause buried wires to become exposed. Be careful to conceal all wires to avoid any accidents.

Doing a periodic survey of your property, especially in the winter, will ensure that all electrical wiring is properly buried. It will also give you clarity on any issues that need repairing.

Take Steps to Prevent Moisture

A significant threat to outdoor lighting is moisture. The light will likely short out once water gets into a lighting fixture or bulb. Choosing outdoor lighting with a lifetime warranty won’t necessarily eliminate the risk of shorts, but it will negate the cost of replacing damaged lighting.

The outdoors are unpredictable, and moisture is present even when it doesn’t rain or snow. However, if your outdoor lighting is covered in snow or sleet, removing it as soon as possible will help prevent any noticeable moisture from seeping in and causing damage.

By performing these simple routine maintenance practices, you can prevent costly damage to your outdoor lighting. When you need an outdoor lighting contractor, don’t hesitate to contact a professional.

There are many different options for outdoor lighting. Be sure to choose the best option for you and your home.

Many homeowners opt for energy-efficient lighting because of its many benefits. If you’re curious about what kind of outdoor lighting may be best for you, check out the top benefits of energy-efficient lighting.

Learn more about outdoor lighting services or schedule a call with one of our professional representatives at Long View Lighting at 770-790-3511.

When it comes to home maintenance, an important question to ask is, “Should I upgrade my electrical panel?” It can seem challenging to answer this question. However, it is vital to ensure that a home’s electrical system is up-to-date to avoid expensive repairs or electrical fires. 

To determine whether or not electrical panel upgrades are necessary, consider the following factors. 

1. The Age of Your Home

Newer homes tend to have an updated electrical system. However, if the house or apartment is older than 20 years old, it is worth considering an electric panel upgrade. 

Older homes typically have a 60 amp electrical panel. With the growing need for technology and power, the modern home requires a panel with 200 amps. 

A home’s garage can also indicate electrical panels. However, older electrical panels may not support the power needs of a modern garage door. 

2. The Costs of the Current Electrical Panel

Electrical panel upgrades can often save homeowners money. However, an outdated panel will require more power to function, resulting in higher energy bills. 

Homeowners that are experiencing higher than normal energy bills should consider replacing their electrical panels. Not only can it save money on monthly energy bills, but it can reduce repair or replacement costs in the future. 

3. Homeowner’s Insurance

The age of a home’s fuse boxes can affect homeowner insurance premiums. For most policies, replacing the old fuse box with a new one will lead to insurance discounts since a new electric panel is safer for the home and less likely to suffer from faulty wiring. 

In addition to reduced monthly premiums, homeowners with new fuse boxes will often receive discounts from the electric company, saving them even more money. 

4. Dimming or Flickering Lights

Flickering lights are common after a storm or power company issues. However, continuously flickering or dimming lights often indicate a problem with the fuse box. 

In some cases, faulty lights are the result of issues with the utility company. This can include blown transformers or storm damage. If it is a problem with the power company, they will resolve the issue. 

However, if the lights dim or flicker while using other household appliances, there is an issue with the electrical panel. 

5. Faulty Wiring

Faulty wiring is an easy answer to the question, “Should I upgrade my electrical panel?” Electrical wiring doesn’t last forever. The older the wiring is in the electrical panel, the less efficient a home’s power will be. 

Some common indications of a faulty wiring system include a burning smell and discoloration near outlets and plugs. A burning smell results from burning wiring, which is an obvious indication of an outdated system. Discoloration around a plug is a sign of a more severe issue; in this case, it is critical to turn off the power and call a professional right away. 

6. Circuit Breaker Failure

Circuit breakers work similarly to the fuse box. They protect the home from electrical fires by preventing short circuits and overloaded circuits. 

A circuit breaker trip is an easy fix. However, if it trips frequently, it could be an indication of circuit breaker failure. If the circuit is malfunctioning or overloaded, it is essential to call an electrician as soon as possible. 

Tripping circuit breakers can seem like no big deal. However, if they are frequently tripping, it could lead to an electrical fire if not addressed.

7. The Circuit Breaker Trips When an Appliance Plugs In

There are several appliances around the home that require power to operate. If the circuit breaker trips when plugging in a hairdryer or microwave, it could signify an outdated electrical panel. 

Older electrical systems cannot support the power needs of a modern household. As previously mentioned, homes these days should have a 200-amp panel to function effectively. 

When the circuit breaker is at risk of overloading, it trips to prevent an electrical fire. It may be time for an electrical panel upgrade if the circuit breaker trips when appliances plug in. 

8. The Electric Panel Feels Warm

A warm electrical panel is an apparent sign of a wiring issue. Unlike other appliances in the house, an electric panel will not heat up when in use. If the electric panel feels warm to the touch, there is too much heat in the system. 

Functional wires contain the heat to prevent the system from overheating. A warm electrical panel is a sign that the wires are no longer holding the heat and could lead to a potential electrical fire. 

9. The Home Uses a Lot of Power Strips and Extension Cords

The more power a house uses, the better the electrical panel it needs. Although power strips and extension cords won’t directly harm an electrical system, they require more electricity. This increases the demand for the outlets. 

Using too many extension cords or power strips can overload the system by using the outlets for more power than they were designed for. Updating the electrical panel may be necessary to prevent system overload and provide enough power for the appliances in the home. 

10. New Appliance Installation

Should I upgrade my electrical panel? If you are installing new appliances, the answer is most likely yes. 

Newer appliances often require more amps to operate. For example, a newer oven that requires more power to work will have a more significant effect on the electrical panel than the older model that requires fewer amps. 

Every Woodstock professional electrician at Longview Lighting is passionate about helping families protect their homes by providing high-quality electrical panel upgrades. To learn more about electrical panels or for garage door maintenance tips, contact Woodstock’s trusted electrical repair specialists at Longview Lighting at (770) 790-3511 today. 

In Georgia, a shiny, new garage door is a significant investment for many homeowners. The last thing you want is to have to buy a new garage door or make untimely repairs. Scheduling regular garage door maintenance is essential in ensuring your garage door lasts as long as possible. Below, you will find tips on how to maintain your garage door and improve its lifespan. 

For additional tips for how to maintain garage door performance and lifespan, contact Long View Lighting in Woodstock, GA, for specific and advanced advice by calling 770-790-3511. 

Understand Your Garage Door’s Operation

The first step to proper garage door maintenance is to understand how your garage door works. There are different types of doors, including:

• Sectional garage doors
• Fixed garage doors
• Roll-up garage doors
• Carriage garage doors
• Retractable garage doors 

Take the time to identify the type of garage door you have and learn about what each of its components does. Understanding how your garage door works with its dedicated garage door openers is practical when making repairs or performing maintenance if electrical or mechanical issues arise. 

Make Regular Performance Checks

To extend longevity, you’ll need to know how to maintain garage door performance and check it to detect issues that may warrant repairs. Regular performance checks include performing the following tasks and addressing changes if they arise:

• Listening for abnormal sounds coming from the motor or tracks
• Checking opening and closing speed and evenness 

You should contact a professional garage door repair service to resolve performance issues, as they can quickly become worse and potentially cause damage to your car or other possessions in your garage if not addressed. 

Look Out for Water Damage

Whether your garage door is steel or wood, it is prone to water damage. Check for rust on steel garage doors and warping or rotting on wooden doors, as these are signs of water damage. 

Luckily, you can resolve minor rusting by removing rust from affected areas and painting over the water damage. However, significant rust buildup or wood rot may warrant a complete replacement if the damaged areas vastly reduce performance. 

Tighten Loose Hardware Appropriately

As you use your garage door, bolts and other hardware may loosen over time, putting you at risk and increasing the need for future repairs. You should inspect all parts and gently tighten those that need it with a socket wrench to avoid over-tightening and stripping that will require further repairs. 

A professional garage door repair technician can tighten loose hardware if you are unsure how to identify and resolve potential problem areas. 

Maintain Individual Parts

Garage doors contain many individual parts that require attention. You shouldn’t just look at your garage door as a whole. Instead, regularly maintain individual components, including moving parts such as hinges, rollers, and torsion springs. 

Moving parts require lubrication to ensure your garage door moves smoothly. Be sure to use a silicone or lithium-based lubricant and avoid using products that will remove grease, such as WD-40. 

Additionally, cleaning the garage door’s tracks is necessary for ensuring rollers can move freely. Debris from pests, dust, and built-up grease can prevent your garage door from moving smoothly. To safely remove dirt, you can sweep away free debris and use a grease cleaner and scrub brush to remove hardened dirt. 

Ensure It Seals and Protects

Your garage door’s seal makes a difference in its lifespan as the seal prevents debris, water, and other environmental inconveniences from entering your garage. 

The weatherstripping at the bottom of the door is prone to cracking and further damage from the environment and long-term garage door operation. You can use caulk and weatherstripping to effectively seal up cracks and block cold air, dust, and more from reaching your indoor environment from the door’s perimeter. 

If you have an insulated garage door, the indoor temperature heavily depends on the insulation’s condition. Interior insulation requires replacement if you discover damaged areas so that your garage stays warm and protected in the winter. 

Watch for Wear

Wear on cables and garage door springs can cause instant damage if you don’t notice and treat it promptly. If a worn garage door cable breaks, the door can fall or become unbalanced, damaging your vehicle as you exit and enter or putting you in danger when operating the door. 

Watch for wear, and be sure to contact a professional repair service immediately if you notice your cables and springs getting rusty or thin. 

Perform Tests for Safety and Balance

Garage doors have high safety standards. Safety functions such as the auto-reverse function are in place to protect people and objects that fall under the garage door as it closes. You should regularly test this safety function and others to prevent accidents by placing an object under the door and closing it. Be sure that the photoelectric sensors make the garage door reverse if an object falls under it. 

In addition to safety features, a balance test is also helpful in ensuring your garage door lasts long. An unbalanced door can make the opener fail or break moving components. If you are not confident in performing this test and making adequate repairs, consider calling in a professional to handle it. 

Get Effective Garage Door Repairs and Maintenance

Do you know how to maintain garage door longevity or make necessary repairs? Causes of damaged garage doors are a hassle to deal with, but Long View Lighting’s garage door repair service is detailed and thorough to meet all your garage door’s needs to extend longevity. Call Long View Lighting at 770-790-3511 to learn more about garage door repair costs or schedule an appointment for maintenance.

The moving parts and pieces of garage doors can wear out over time. Reviewing the common issues that lead to a damaged garage door can help you monitor your door. Here, we discuss three of the most frequent causes of damage to garage doors.

You can learn more about issues related to garage doors when you call Long View Lighting in Woodstock, GA, at 770-790-3511.

Broken Springs and Cables

Your garage door uses a number of springs and cables to raise and lower itself. Investigating the causes of a damaged garage door frequently leads you right back to these cables and springs. When springs break, they snap and often fall to the floor.

The cables pull your garage door directly each time you open or close the door. These cables get more brittle as they age, and they may eventually snap. You can assess your cables for evidence of damage. Replacing the cables before they snap can help you prevent additional damage.

You can also replace garage door springs, even after they break and fall to the ground. Taking this step can help you get your garage door working again.

A Misaligned Garage Track

Garage doors move on a track that directs them up and down. Over time, these tracks can shift due to continual usage. Some property owners ignore the misalignment at first because the garage door still works.

However, the track will only move further out of position over time. Eventually, it can run into other parts of the garage mechanism, causing additional damage. Regular garage door maintenance can extend the life of your track.

You can also reach out to the professionals if you notice the track shifting position. They can step in to repair or replace a damaged garage door track.

Worn Out Hardware

Garage door systems rely on lots of pieces of hardware to function properly. Each time you raise your garage door, the system draws on hinges and bolts. Time can impact the function of these metallic parts. They can wear away with continued use or even develop an issue with rust.

You can take steps to prevent this kind of issue by:

• Inspecting the hardware regularly
• Tightening loose bolts
• Lubricating moving parts

Make sure that you use an oil-based lubricant when taking care of your garage door hardware. Taking these steps can help prolong the life of your garage door. You may also catch any more serious issues as they develop.

Get Help with a Damaged Garage Door

Do you have a damaged garage door? You can review the common causes of these issues with a garage door repair service in Woodstock, GA. Reach out to Long View Lighting to learn more about options to repair or maintain your garage door. You can get started when you call 770-790-3511.

The average electrical outlet sees a lot of use. Over time, they can get loose, break, or stop working entirely. If you have an old or damaged outlet, you might be tempted to try to replace it yourself. The affordability and availability of outlets lead more than a few homeowners to wonder, “Do you need a licensed electrician to replace an outlet?” 

In most cases, that depends on the type of outlet and how you define “need.” Legally, most residential outlet installation projects don’t require a license (though some may require a permit). However, there are other risks and considerations to keep in mind.

The Risks of DIY Outlet Replacement

There are plenty of household projects you can complete yourself, especially with the popularity of YouTube tutorials—but most electrical work should be left to a professional due to the risk of electrical shock and fire.

Shock Accidents

The majority of residential electrical outlets are on a 110-volt or 220-volt circuit. While this is not usually enough to cause serious injury, it can lead to burns, numbness, tingling, painful muscle contractions, and even heart palpitations. 

Some of this risk can be avoided by taking proper safety precautions, such as turning off the circuit breaker, but the right equipment also helps, and many homeowners don’t have everything necessary to complete projects like these safely.

Electrical Fires

Electrical malfunctions are the second most common cause of house fires in the US and account for 13% of all structure fires. The risk of DIY outlet installation or replacement extends far beyond the installation itself. Mistakes can create a far higher fire risk, putting you and your family in danger.

Inefficiency

Finally, while this point pales in comparison to safety concerns, an improperly installed outlet can also greatly increase your electricity bill. For example, using the wrong amperage can lead to increased resistance, which will lead to more power draw. Fluctuating power levels may also damage your electronics or appliances, leading to inefficiency, the need for repairs, or even premature replacement.

Need a Licensed Electrician in Woodstock, GA?

In short, do you need a licensed electrician to replace an outlet? Not necessarily if it’s a residential outlet. Can you install an electrical outlet yourself? Maybe, depending on your aptitude and the tools you have available.  But should you replace an electrical outlet yourself? Probably not. 

At the very least, consider consulting a professional before working on your electrical systems. Electrical work can be dangerous, but improperly installed wiring is an even more significant risk. If you need an outlet replaced or installed, reach out to the electricians of Long View Lighting. Call (770) 790-3511 today.

Do you find yourself taking frequent trips to your home’s breaker box, only to realize you have no idea how to solve your electrical problem? Do your kitchen or bathroom appliances fail to operate in tandem, with one shutting down the moment you start up the other?

Electrical oddities can baffle even the savviest of homeowners. A knowledgeable local electrician from Long View Lighting can detect, diagnose, and safely repair the problem. To protect your home and safety, ask an electrician the following questions before hiring them.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

A licensed electrician completes thousands of hours of education and training. Even if your neighbor swears by their favorite electrician, you need to ensure they are the right contractor for your job.

2. Have You Done This Type of Work Before? How Often?

Electrical problems in a home can vary from minor annoyances to major fire hazards. Therefore, it’s vital to hire an electrician who has experience in the specific type of electrical work your home requires.

3. Who Will Do the Work?

The person you’re speaking with may do the work themselves, assign another electrician with different experience, or hire a subcontractor. In addition, the work may require that the electrician cut into the wall or ceiling. Find out if they will hire someone to complete the repair work on those areas or if you will be responsible for it. 

4. Will the Work Require a Permit?

You don’t want to find out too late that an electrician didn’t get the necessary permits for work on your home’s electrical systems. Your local electrician should be familiar with the building codes in your area.

5. Is There a Warranty on Parts and Labor?

How many times has it happened—everything ran smoothly when the electrician fixed the issue, but as soon as the contractor left your home, things fell apart. Ask an electrician what type of warranty they have and what it covers to account for these occurrences.

Licensed Electricians in Woodstock, GA

A professional electrician will leave your home’s electrical system in better shape than they found it. The opposite may be true if you try to complete the necessary work yourself. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, home electrical fire account for about $1.3 billion in property damage each year.

You get recommendations for contractors from your social media community, neighbors, friends, family, and internet searches. Even with all this information, it’s essential to know whether the electrician you hire is the right one for your specific electrical problem or project.

Long View Lighting’s team of electricians is professional, reliable, and trustworthy. If you have questions to ask an electrician in Woodstock, GA, call us today at 770-790-3511.

Your home’s circuit breaker protects your wiring from overloading, which can pose a fire risk and damage wires. If a tripped circuit breaker won’t reset, you may assume you have an electrical issue with the breaker and call an electrician. In reality, it’s often a sign that your breaker is working as intended. 

If you’re experiencing circuit breaker trips or a tripped circuit breaker that won’t reset, here are some things that you can try before calling in the professionals. 

Follow the Correct Reset Procedure

Surprisingly, there’s a right and wrong way to reset a breaker after a trip. Turn the breaker handle all the way off until you hear a click. Then you can flip it back on, again, until you hear a click. If your tripped breaker won’t reset after following this procedure, it’s time to do a bit more investigating. 

Are You Overloading the Circuit?

Having too many appliances drawing too much power from one circuit is one of the most common electrical issues behind frequent breaker trips. A circuit breaker is designed to cut the power when it detects a heavy power draw in an effort to protect the electrical system. 

The easiest way to diagnose an overloaded circuit is to unplug your appliances and test the breaker. If it stays up, then start plugging in appliances one at a time. When you find the culprit that trips the circuit, consider putting it on a different circuit entirely. Your appliance may also be faulty. Check if it’s overly hot, which may indicate faulty wiring. 

Check for Short-Circuits

Short circuits are wiring problems that occur when a wire that carries current (called a hot wire) touches a neutral wire. This touching causes both wires to heat up and can lead to electrical fires if left unaddressed. 

If your tripped circuit breaker won’t reset, and you’ve checked for overloading, then you’re likely dealing with a short-circuit. If so, turn off the breaker immediately and call a professional electrician. 

Check Your Breaker for Faults

Some older houses may have old breakers that are well past their intended lifespan. Faulty circuit breakers aren’t common, but they may be your issue, especially if you’ve exhausted other options. 

In the interests of electrical safety, you shouldn’t try to replace a faulty circuit breaker yourself. Instead, call a professional that you can rely on to do the job correctly. 

Call a Professional Electrician

Playing around with an electrical system can be very dangerous, especially if you’re not a licensed electrician. Rather than try to identify the reason why your tripped circuit breaker won’t reset, get in touch with Long View Lighting. They’ll send a skilled electrician in Woodstock, GA, to your door fast to help you troubleshoot and repair your issue with minimal fuss. Call 770-318-4143 today!

In today’s modern, technology-driven world, the importance of electricity and electricians cannot be overstated. The jobs a master electrician does are essential to almost every part of life. Fortunately, when you need skilled electrical service, hiring an electrician is relatively easy. 

But how much do electricians cost per hour, and what do they do exactly?

How Much Does an Electrician Cost per Hour?

The average electrician cost per hour is between $50-$150, depending on the job performed. The rates also vary based on project complexity, the focus of the job, and the electrician’s skill and experience level. 

These projects give you an idea of the average cost of hiring a licensed electrician:

• Installing an electric car charging station costs $500-1200.
• Installing an electrical panel costs $600-2000.
• Installing an electric fence costs $1000-1500.
• Adding an electrical outlet costs $150-300.
• Installing a light fixture costs $150-900.

What Does an Electrician Do?

An electrician is a highly skilled tradesperson who installs, maintains, and repairs electrical systems in homes, commercial spaces, and even public structures, like stoplights.

Some of the electrical work these tradespeople performs is:

• Reading blueprints for houses and buildings to install light switches, fixtures, outlets, and other electrical features
• Knowing and following electrical building codes for new and existing structures
• Installing and testing circuits to ensure connection
• Testing devices to determine why they are not working and how to fix them
• Replacing and upgrading old or faulty wiring according to building codes
• Performing electrical maintenance on fixtures to ensure safe operating
• Train other electricians to become master electricians

What are the Levels of Electricians? 

Depending on the experience of an electrician and the amount of formal electrical education, an electrician will fall into one of three categories:

• Apprentice: often has a two-year degree and at least 8,000 hours of job experience under a certified electrician.  
• Journeyman: has the experience of an apprentice plus a passing certification on the Journeyman’s exam.
• A master electrician: has journeyman experience plus an additional 4,000 hours of experience and must pass the Master Electrician exam.

What Skills Does an Electrician Need?

Because an electrician is a skilled tradesperson, they require aptitude in critical areas. Electricity is dangerous when mishandled, so knowledge is key to successful proper electrical work. Electricians must possess

• Basic math skills
• Ability to work independently
• Good time management
• Excellent problem-solving skills 
• Focus on safety
• Physical endurance and strength
• Ability to communicate with customers

Now that you understand how much an electrician costs per hour, find out how to hire an electrician from Long View Lighting in Woodstock, GA, at 770-790-3511 for any electrical need.

Often when homeowners explore the latest lighting options, they find themselves asking: How long does it take to install recessed lighting? Learn more about recessed lighting as well as the time and costs required to install it in this simple and informative guide from the professionals at Long View Lighting.

What Is Recessed Lighting?

Recessed lighting uses fixtures installed above the ceiling line or inside other surfaces to evenly light the room. These installations work particularly well as accent lighting that highlights specific aspects of a home, plus their low profile makes them suitable for almost any aesthetic. They also work well for retrofitting older properties as they only require a new hole in the ceiling to house each fixture.

LED recessed lights are a more popular option than older can lights. Not only can homeowners integrate these lights into a smart home system, but they can also control LED lights with dimmer switches and adjust their colors to create the perfect atmosphere.

How Much Does Recessed Lighting Cost?

The cost to install recessed lighting can range anywhere between $100 and $480 for each lighting fixture, but the average price is $360 each. Around $200 of this cost accounts for labor at the average rate of $95 per hour. The rest covers materials such as bulbs, trim, and wires.

Having to move around heating ducts and other obstacles or install recessed lighting in high ceilings will increase the cost significantly. These challenges can require more labor or specialized equipment to place the lights, increasing installation costs by over $200 per fixture.

Installation cost estimates also need to consider any related expenses. Wiring new LED recessed lights into the ceiling can cost $70 to $140 for each light, while installing a dimmer switch usually requires another $125. Asking the electrician for a full lighting installation quote will give an accurate representation of the cost for the whole project.

How Long Does It Take to Install Recessed Lighting?

Recessed lighting installation typically takes between two to four hours, but the actual time may differ depending on the number of fixtures and other factors. Installing lights that are on the same circuit is significantly faster, as is working with new construction. 

A licensed electrician will require extra time to protect the installation area with drop cloths and clean up the space after they are done. Other factors such as physical obstacles or the need to install a new circuit can also increase the installation time.

The experts at Long View Lighting will help you choose the right recessed lights for your needs and install them with trained precision. Call 770-790-3511 to schedule your recessed lighting installation in Woodstock, GA, today.