Author: Keith Gray

Electricians are professionals responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in homes and businesses. While electrical work is essential, it can also be expensive, and finding an affordable electrician can be challenging. However, there are ways to save money while still getting quality service.

In this article, we’ll look at seven easy ways to find an affordable electrician:

1. Get Referrals from Your Family and Friends

One of the top ways to find an affordable electrician is to ask for referrals from friends and family. This is because they may have had experience with an electrician who provided quality service at an affordable price. This is a great way to find a reliable electrician who is both affordable and trustworthy.

2. Search Online

Another way to find an affordable electrician is to search online. There are a lot of websites that list electricians in your area, such as HomeAdvisor or Angie’s List. These websites allow you to compare prices and read reviews from their customers who have previously used their services. This can help you find an electrician who is affordable and has a good reputation.

3. Look for Discounts and Promotions

Many electricians offer discounts and promotions to attract new customers. This could be a percentage of the total cost of the job or a free service with the purchase of another service. Look for these promotions on the electrician’s website or social media pages. You can also ask the electrician directly if they offer any discounts or promotions.

4. Check for Licenses and Insurance

When hiring an electrician, it’s important to check that they are licensed and insured. A licensed electrician has completed the necessary training and has passed a certification exam. Insurance is also important because it protects you in case of accidents or damages that occur during the job. Hiring an unlicensed or uninsured electrician may be cheaper, but it can also be risky and may end up costing you even more in the long run.

5. Get Multiple Quotes

Before hiring an electrician, it’s a good idea to get multiple quotes. This allows you to compare prices and services offered by different electricians. It’s important to compare apples to apples, meaning that you should ask for quotes for the same job from each electrician. This will help you find an affordable electrician who offers quality service.

6. Consider the Electrician’s Experience

Experience is important when it comes to hiring an electrician. An experienced electrician has likely encountered a wide range of electrical problems and has the knowledge and skills to solve them quickly and efficiently. However, an electrician with less experience may be more affordable. It’s crucial to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of hiring a less experienced electrician versus a more experienced one.

7. Schedule Work During Off-Peak Times

Electricians may charge more for work during peak times, such as weekends or evenings. If possible, schedule an electrical appointment during off-peak times to save money. This may require some flexibility, but it can lead to significant savings.

Conclusion

Finding an affordable electrician can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. By following these seven tips, you can find an electrician who offers quality service at an affordable price.

Remember to get referrals from friends and family, search online, look for discounts and promotions, check for licenses and insurance, get multiple quotes, consider the electrician’s experience, and schedule work during off-peak times. With some research and planning, you can save money on your electrical needs without sacrificing quality service.

At Turner On Services, we take great pride in offering exceptional expertise in all our electrical projects. We always treat our clients’ homes as if they were our own. Our technicians are well-trained and current with the latest codes and technologies relevant to your home or business. Contact our affordable electrician today!

The electrical panel, the circuit breaker or breaker box, is the heart of your home’s electrical system. It distributes electricity from the primary power source to different parts of your house through circuits. It ensures that the electrical load is evenly distributed, preventing overload or short circuits that can lead to electrical fires or damage to your electrical appliances. However, it can only work until it needs an upgrade.

An electrical panel upgrade is a significant investment because it ensures your home’s safety and functionality by preventing potential electrical hazards that can risk your family and property. Moreover, it also allows adding more circuits and appliances without overloading the system, which is vital if you plan on adding home additions or upgrading your electrical appliances. However, the tricky part is knowing when to replace it because it’s not something you can easily determine without a professional inspection.

However, several signs point to an electrical panel upgrade, including

#1 – You Are Installing New Appliances

If you install new appliances in your home, it might be time for an electrical panel upgrade. New appliances like air conditioning units, dishwashers, and refrigerators require more power than older models. If your electrical panel is outdated, it may not be able to handle the increased power requirements of the new appliances, resulting in circuit overloads, tripped breakers, and even electrical fires. In short, an electrical panel upgrade will ensure that your home’s electrical system can handle the increased power demand of your new appliances.

#2 – Frequent Dimming or Flickering of Lights

If you notice that your lights are frequently dimming or flickering, this could be a sign that your electrical panel is outdated and needs to be upgraded. Dimming or flickering lights can be caused by power surges, which occur when a sudden increase in the amount of electricity flows through your home’s electrical system. This can be a safety hazard, as it can cause damage to your electrical appliances and potentially start an electrical fire.

With an electrical panel upgrade, you can ensure your home’s electrical system can handle power surges and prevent dimming or flickering lights. This also ensures that your electrical appliances function correctly without interruptions or damage.

#3 – Your Electrical System Relies Too Much on Fuses and a Fuse Panel

If your home still relies on a fuse panel, consider upgrading to a circuit breaker panel. Fuse panels are outdated and can be a safety hazard, as they can easily overload and cause a fire. Fuses must be replaced every time they blow, which can be inconvenient and costly.

On the other hand, circuit breaker panels are more efficient and safer than fuse panels. They automatically trip when an overload occurs, preventing damage to your electrical system and appliances. They also offer more flexibility with the number of circuits, making adding new appliances or electronics to your home easier without overloading the system.

#4 – Old Wiring

Upgrading your electrical panel allows you to assess and upgrade any old wiring in your home. Old wiring can be a safety hazard and increase the risk of electrical fires. It may not be able to handle the electrical demands of modern appliances and electronics, leading to frequent tripping and potential damage to the devices. Upgrading your wiring to meet current safety standards can provide peace of mind and ensure your home is up to code.

#5 – Burns and Melting

If you notice any signs of burns or melting around your electrical panel, it’s a warning sign that something is wrong. Overloaded circuits, outdated wiring, or faulty components in the panel itself could cause this. Ignoring these signs could lead to a dangerous electrical fire, so you must upgrade your electrical panel can help prevent these issues and keep your home safe.

On a related note, warmth is also a warning sign to look out for. If you notice that your electrical panel is warm to the touch, this could indicate a problem with the wiring or components inside the panel. This could lead to overheating and potentially cause a fire. You must have a professional electrician assess the situation and determine if an upgrade is necessary to prevent any potential hazards.

#6 – Circuit Breaking or Tripping

If you experience frequent circuit breaking or tripping in your home, it’s a sign that your electrical panel may not be able to handle the electrical demands of your household. Ignoring this could lead to a dangerous electrical fire, so you must have a professional electrician assess the situation and determine if an upgrade is necessary. Upgrading your electrical panel can help prevent these issues and keep your home safe.

#7 – You Use Too Many Extension Cords

Using too many extension cords is not only inconvenient but also dangerous. Extension cords are not designed to handle the same amount of electrical load as a proper electrical outlet, which can lead to overheating and potentially cause a fire. If you rely on extension cords frequently, it may be time to upgrade your electrical panel to accommodate your household’s electrical demands. This will make your home safer and more convenient for everyday use.

Conclusion

An electrical panel upgrade is essential for your home’s safety and functionality, so it must be done when necessary. For this reason, you must have a professional electrician inspect and make the upgrades to ensure everything is done correctly. This way, your home’s electrical system is up to code and can handle your electrical demands without risks to your safety.

Turner On Services provides top-quality services for electrical panel upgrades. Our professional electricians will ensure your home’s electrical work is safe and up to code for maximum functionality. Call us today at 513-835-5149 to book an appointment!

Generators are an essential piece of equipment for many homeowners and businesses. They provide backup power during a power outage, keep construction sites running, and power up outdoor events. 

However, maintaining your generator is crucial to ensure its optimal performance and longevity. Here are five generator care do’s and don’ts you should know about.

1. DO Regular Maintenance Checks

Like any other piece of machinery, generators need regular maintenance checks to ensure they are running smoothly. Check the oil level and change it regularly. 

Make sure the air filter is clean and replace it if necessary. Inspect the fuel filter and replace it if it’s dirty. You should also check the spark plug and replace it if it’s worn out. Regular maintenance checks will ensure your generator is always ready to go when you need it.

2. DO Keep the Generator Clean and Dry

Generators should be kept clean and dry at all times. Dirt and debris can clog the air filter and cause the generator to overheat. Use a soft cloth to wipe down the exterior of the generator and remove any dirt or debris. If your generator is stored outside, make sure it is covered to protect it from the elements.

Moisture can also cause damage to the generator’s electrical components, leading to corrosion and other issues. This is especially important for those who live in areas with high humidity or frequent rain. Regularly wiping down the exterior of the generator with a soft cloth, and ensuring it is stored in a dry place will help prevent any moisture buildup. 

3. DO Store Fuel Properly

Gasoline and diesel fuel are both highly flammable and dangerous if not handled properly. Store fuel in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from any heat sources or open flames. Use a fuel stabilizer to keep the fuel fresh and prevent it from breaking down over time. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for proper fuel storage guidelines.

4. DON’T Neglect to Check the Battery

The battery is a critical component of your generator. Neglecting to check the battery regularly can result in it losing its charge or failing altogether. Check the battery every month and replace it if it’s not holding a charge.

Without a functional battery, the generator won’t be able to start up when needed, rendering it useless during a power outage or emergency situation. Regular maintenance and repair will ensure that the generator is always ready to provide backup power.

5. DON’T Forget to Shut Off the Fuel Valve

Leaving the fuel valve open when the generator is not in use can result in fuel leaking. When you’re finished using your generator, don’t forget to shut off the fuel valve. This will prevent fuel from leaking and causing a fire hazard. 

It will also help prevent any fuel from going bad if it’s left in the generator for an extended period. Fuel left in the generator for an extended period can cause issues when trying to start the generator in the future. 

Conclusion

Following these generator care do’s and don’ts will help ensure your generator is always ready to provide backup power. Regular maintenance checks are essential to keeping it in good condition. By following these guidelines, you can extend the lifespan of your generator and keep it running smoothly for years to come.

If you need professional generator repair and maintenance services, Turner On Services has you covered. We offer generator surge protection to keep your units running smoothly. Get in touch with us today to learn how.

How to Save on Electricity

In the modern world of technology, we use more electricity than ever before. Most homes run on electrical appliances, whether you try to or not. The good news is that there are things you can do to limit how much power is used.

Our team of experts at Turner On Services wants to help save you as much money as possible on your electric bill. In some cases, upgrading or replacing your devices can help. We offer a number of services to get you started in the right direction.

Even if you don’t follow all of our suggestions, you still might be able to save something and every little bit helps. Keep reading to find out how you can save, or feel free to give us a call today!

Keep the Temperature Under Control

There are multiple topics that fall under temperature in the average household. The first area that you can limit your electricity usage is the thermostat. Whether you live alone and the outside weather is all over or your family argues over the perfect temperature, it can use a lot of power.

Constantly adjusting your thermostat can cause spikes in energy consumption every time the AC or heat kicks on. By using a programmable thermostat, you can set it to certain temperatures during the day to save money.

For example, if you work the 9-5 job and won’t be home, you can turn up the thermostat to 80 or higher to avoid coming on as much. Just program close to when you’ll come home and you can still walk through the door to a cool home.

If it’s cold outside, set the thermostat lower at night and have it start heating your house right before you get up in the morning. You can even opt for a smart thermostat that you can program directly from your phone.

Our team can recommend the best products if you need a thermostat you can program, whether you want a smart device or not. You could save 1% for every degree setting during a given 8-hour period, according to the Department of Energy.

It will also help to prevent your home from losing air. Any broken or loose seal on your doors or windows could leak air or let the outside temperatures in. This can cause you to use more power than necessary, so we’ll check for leaks or cracks during a professional inspection.

If you spot any leaks, the solution can be to replace the seal or use caulking to block it. There’s also the matter of your water heater. These appliances use more electricity than most things in your home, with only the HVAC unit using more power.

Part of the energy consumption comes from keeping the water in your tank warm for use. While you can have a tankless water heater installed, you might only reduce the power usage by $100 annually. It could also limit how much hot water you have access to.

The best option we’ve found is to lower the default temperature on your water heater by about 20 degrees. Setting your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, you can save as much as 10% in electricity. You can also limit your shower time.

If you plan to be away for an extended period of time, you can turn the appliance off to prevent passive energy loss while you’re gone. All of these things can add up to real savings. If you have any questions or need to schedule an inspection, give us a call today!

Insulating is Key

You might be familiar with insulation for your home, but we’re also talking about your clothes. When it comes to your house, though, you can’t be too careful. Proper insulation can keep the cold out during Winter and prevent your heater from working overtime. In many cases, the insulation in your attic, flooring, or walls has worn down over time. This allows heat or cold to get in and ruin your comfort. 

We’ve seen a lot of older homes, especially, have this problem. When homes were built 20 years ago, they didn’t have the same safety and insulation standards that we have now. Make sure to look around at your insulation, or have a professional like Turner On Services give you an inspection to make sure you’ve got effective insulation. 

For a quick fix, you can put an extra layer of insulation around your pipes. This will help your water heater out when it’s cold outside and reduce the chances of freezing. Since that can lead to cracked or burst pipes, you can save even more on potential repair costs. 

That brings us to you, because how you dress can affect your electricity usage. Instead of running your AC like there’s no tomorrow when it’s hot outside, wear as little as possible inside. Whatever you’re comfortable wearing, go with that to avoid touching the thermostat. 

On the contrary, if it’s cold outside, bundle up or throw a blanket on. Since your AC and heater are responsible for the most energy use in your home, the less you can use it the better!

ask us about generator surge protection!

Functional HVAC

Over time, your AC and heater can get worn down and lose efficiency. While routine maintenance by our experts can keep things running smoothly, there are also minor things you can do. For starters, you can change out the air filter regularly.

As it cycles air through your vents, the filter in your HVAC unit can get dirty. Between dust, lint, and allergens like pollen, there are a lot of things that can gather on your filter. A clogged filter can leave your air supply at risk or worse.

It’s not hard to replace your air filter, but a lot of homeowners simply forget to do so. With a dirty filter, your AC unit uses more power, which means you end up paying more to stay cool. The good news is that air filters aren’t generally expensive and could save you a lot in the long run.

The best option is to replace it every month to 3 months, depending on if you have pets or serious allergies. If your HVAC unit needs to be repaired or replaced, or it’s been a while since your last inspection, we’re just a phone call away!

On that note, it’s important to keep appliances efficient in your home. As time goes by, they can lose efficiency and use more power to accomplish the same goal. Proper cleaning and maintenance will prevent this from being an issue, like:

1. Empty the lint filter in your dryer regularly
2. Clean the coils of your refrigerator
3. Defrost freezers and refrigerators

Getting a professional inspection once a year is usually fine for most bigger appliances. Letting a minor issue go unfixed can lead to expensive problems, though. If it’s time to replace an appliance, we can recommend more efficient products to upgrade to, so call us today!

Timing is Everything

Knowing when to use your appliances can also save you money on electricity. When it’s hottest outside, you should avoid using your dryer or heavier appliances. This uses more power and, therefore, more money.

You can also continue to use a dryer while it’s warm to reduce the amount of electricity needed to get hot. The same idea goes toward dishes, where we suggest doing a full load instead of multiple small ones.

It might seem obvious, but make sure to turn off lights and fans in rooms that you’re not using. If you’re not using a device, unplug it. This goes for anything from the toaster and microwave to the printer and Xbox. All of these can passively lose energy.

If you really want to make the most of your appliances, you can set your washer to use cold water. Unless your clothes specify otherwise, cold water means less electricity use to get hot. Thanks to detergent, you don’t need heat to clean your clothes.

Save on Your Electric Bill

A big step you can take is to use a prepaid energy plan. With one of these plans, you pay up-front for electricity and put money into the account anytime it’s running out. This can also help with budgeting and financial planning.

You can also see how much electricity you’re using with these plans, so you can adjust what you’re doing on the fly. If you notice a large spike, keep track of what appliance was responsible. You might want to replace or upgrade it to avoid future costs.

While many electric plans can run a high rate for multiple years, a prepaid plan can be as short as every month or a year-long contract. The rate won’t change over this period and you only have to pay for your electricity usage.

They also don’t usually need a deposit or approval, so you can often find one that works for you. If you need help looking for an electric plan or want to take advantage of any of our numerous expert services, call Turner On Services today and get started!

By the way, if you happen to be interested in outdoor lighting services in Batavia or surrounding areas don’t hesitate to give us a call!

All About Why Insulation Matters

Wiring in your home or business is essential to keep everything functioning correctly. If your wiring is outdated or worn down, it might not have proper insulation.

Since wiring problems can cause an electrical fire or expensive damages, insulation is crucial.

Whether it’s to protect your appliances or you, making sure that the insulation on your wiring is intact is a matter of safety.

Our team knows all of the best insulating materials and why you need them, so keep reading to find out more or give us a call today!

Insulating is Key

You might be familiar with insulation for your home, but we’re also talking about your clothes. When it comes to your house, though, you can’t be too careful. Proper insulation can keep the cold out during Winter and prevent your heater from working overtime. In many cases, the insulation in your attic, flooring, or walls has worn down over time. This allows heat or cold to get in and ruin your comfort. 

We’ve seen a lot of older homes, especially, have this problem. When homes were built 20 years ago, they didn’t have the same safety and insulation standards that we have now. Make sure to look around at your insulation, or have a professional like Turner On Services give you an inspection to make sure you’ve got effective insulation. 

Reasons for Proper Insulation

Most people know that wiring is insulated, but you might not know why. Turner On Services cares about the safety of our customers first, so it makes sense that that’s our first point. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, electrical hazards can be:

1. Exposed wiring
2. Removed or worn insulation
3. Wiring issues in wet conditions, like a bathroom

You can save money with proper insulation on your wiring. The material prevents electricity from leaking onto other wires or components, which could also prove dangerous. This can also protect circuits and however your electrical system is grounded.

By keeping your wires insulated, you can also prevent them from corroding faster from moisture in the air. Copper and steel wires are especially susceptible to these issues if left exposed, so you can extend the lifespan of your wiring.

If you didn’t know, your insulation is color-coded to make it easier for us to know what goes where. Different colors on your wiring let us know details, like the voltage of those wires or what they connect to. Proper insulation by a professional like Turner On Services might look like:

1. Yellow can handle 20 amps with 12-gauge wires
2. White corresponds to a 14-gauge wire for 15 amps
3. Orange insulation goes with 10-gauge wires that rate for 30 amps
4. Gray goes on cables with a 15-amp capacity
5. Black insulation can be 6- or 8-gauge wires that are rated for 40-60 amps

While the insulation coloring might not be as essential for your safety as other reasons, they’re all important. Proper insulation can keep you safer or save you money in the long run. To schedule an inspection and get started, give us a call today!

Choosing the Right Insulation Materials

Not all materials are equal when it comes to insulating your wiring. Some are better-suited for different situations, so it’s important to hire someone you trust. It all starts by knowing the different types of insulation branches: Plastics, rubbers, and fluoropolymers.

The most common plastic insulation is PVC, or polyvinyl chloride. PVC and other plastics can protect your wiring from solvents, acids, ozone, and even gas. It can be surprising what your wiring could be susceptible to, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Rubber insulation is a wide category, and it works great to hold in a current while protecting your wires. Since there are so many rubber insulators to choose from, here are the frequent choices among our customers:

1. Resistant to heat and flame-retardant, silicone is an old-school choice. It’s flexible, which lets us bend it for smaller or cramped spaces. 
2. TPR, or Thermoplastic rubber, is perfect for a lot of different temperatures and climates. It works well for our color coordination and provides better processing power than some materials. It also offers good protection for your wiring from wear and the elements.
3. Pure rubber is solid insulation with flexibility in lower temperatures. It’s highly resistant to alcohol, water, and wear and tear. You might be surprised that a lot of “rubber” items like shoes and gloves aren’t pure rubber due to synthetic additions to the mixture.
4. Fiberglass is great if you’ve got wiring in extreme temperatures. While it holds up well against serious cold, most of the time it’s used for the opposite end of the spectrum, like in a foundry or an aluminum processing treatment. 
5. One of the lesser-known materials is CSPE, or Chlorosulfonated polyethylene. It’s also referred to as Hypalon, but it’s good against sunlight and various chemicals. You can also use it for low-voltage wiring, so it’s great for outdoor wiring.
6. Another insulator that we see more often is EPDM. Any commercial business is probably familiar with this one, but Ethylene propylene diene monomer is a rubber-like material perfect for numerous temperatures and flexibility. 

The third category for insulation is fluoropolymers. These materials hold up against all kinds of acidic or basic chemicals and solvents. They’re mostly used for planes and vehicles because of their resistances. They also have a high tolerance for different temperatures. Now that you know the types of insulation that work best, we can start talking about the different cables to know about. We want to help you make an informed decision at every turn, which is what we’re here for when you call us today and schedule an inspection!

A Cable for Every Occasion

With so many cables available these days, you want someone with experience to help you find the right one. You could just not get power to your appliance with the wrong cable, or you could cause damages. Here are some of the usual suspects when it comes to cables: don’t need heat to clean your clothes.

1. UF, or Underground Feeder, cables do just what the name suggests. They’re installed in the ground or near a moist environment. We’ll embed them together using thermoplastic insulation. They resemble the NM-B cable, but they’re better to go in the ground. We’ll also go with nylon or PVC insulation for the color-coding.
2. Speaking of the NM-B cable, they’re the ones you’ll see most often in homes. These cables are flexible and non-metal, which means they’re only good for indoor wiring. They should never be around direct heat or moisture and we’ll install them behind the walls. NM-B’s can also go in the ceiling or underneath the floor to power lighting and appliances. For these, we’ll use rubber or PVC insulation.
3. SE-R cable goes through a panel feeder or branch circuit. These cables are water- and UV-resistant. They’re also made to be flame retardant, so they can be used inside or out. However, if they’re outdoor cables, they can’t be buried without a conduit. SE-R cables typically have nylon insulation.
4. MC, or Metal-Clad cable, has a purpose for industrial, residential, or business building. Because of their design, they can go inside or out with multiple applications. They’re especially useful with copper wrapped around them.
5. One of the newer cables is USE-2 Solar Wire. These cables are renewable and solar-powered. It’s rated to handle many situations, though it’s best used underground or in a location with photovoltaic power. USE-2 cable can also have a flexible rubber insulation that can withstand sunlight.

By now, you can see that there are a lot of options to insulate your cables and wiring. That’s why it helps to work with a professional. Turner On Services is here to help when you’re ready, so don’t hesitate to give us a call!

Which Insulation Works Better?

There are a lot of factors that determine which insulation will function better to protect your wiring. Since every material offers different benefits, we’ll recommend a solution based on your unique situation. Here are some of the most common scenarios we’ve dealt with:

1. An outdoor cable will need to be better against UV rays and the elements. CPE holds up well against bad weather, as does TPR, EPDM, and EPR. You can even choose PVDF from the fluoropolymers.
2. If you need insulation that will hold up in a location with very high temperatures that might cause a fire, you’ve got options from all 3 categories. PVC is a great choice, as are neoprene polychloroprene, silicone, FEP, and PVDF. Many of those are flame-resistant or -retardant.
3. Some insulations are designed specifically for a wet climate. Rubber insulation of any kind is a great option, with EPR being the top suggestion. However, you could also go with PTFE, PVC, or polyethylene to protect your wiring.
4. Colder environments would do well with polyurethane protecting their cables. We’d also recommend PFA or any number of rubber insulating materials.
5. Chemical corrosion is a threat to wiring and insulation, so you need the proper solution. Nylon has a strong resistance to chemicals, as does polyurethane. PVDF, PTFE, CSPE, and fiberglass are also great options to have.

There are all sorts of situations that you might need a customized plan for. We approach each customer with an open mind to make sure that your electrical needs are met, so give us a call today!

Making the Best Decision

Since your wiring can not only power your home or business, but make or break appliances, it’s important to know you’re getting the right insulation. It’s also good to know your wiring is done right with the correct cables and color-coding.

That’s why you should let our team of electrical experts help. We’ll recommend the best of all factors for your situation, taking into consideration things like:

1. The mechanical traits of your insulation can be a huge difference in durability and longevity. It can influence the flexibility, toughness, and overall tensile strength of your insulation. Mechanical also refers to the natural resistances of your insulation to things like water or abrasion.
2. How your insulation can contract and expand over time, in different temperatures, is part of its thermal properties. 
3. Anything from corrosive and UV resistance to moisture absorption and flame stability can impact the decision of chemical properties.
4. Because insulation and wiring deal with electricity, it makes sense that electrical properties are a big deal. The current of your wires is important, but so are the arc and insulation resistance of the material. 

These are all areas of thought that go into our recommendations. We’ve got a lot of experience with wiring and insulation, so you can trust our knowledge to keep you and your building safe. Call us today and schedule an inspection, or feel free to ask any questions you may have!

Electricity: Fact or Fiction?

Since it was discovered, electricity has become integral to almost every home. With modern technology becoming more common than ever, electricity is basically a necessity. However, like everything else, there are always rumors and confusion.

For starters, electricity has weight in a sense. That’s because electrons run through a current and they have mass. While it’s miniscule, as in .054% of a neutron’s mass small, electricity is often mislabeled as weightless.

Turner On Services has the experts to set the record straight and give more information on the thing that powers your everyday life. From insulation to speed, we’re here to give you the facts. Keep reading to find out more, or call us today to get started with any of our services!

All About Insulation

Another topic we see a lot with electricity is insulation. More specifically, a lot of people are told that rubber or wood are better materials to insulate a current. The truth is that a lot of materials can act as insulators, because they don’t conduct electricity.

Anything that doesn’t continue an electric current can insulate the flow of electricity. This is a huge safety measure, so we know it well. While wood and rubber are great insulation, it’s not entirely correct to say they’re the best.

That’s because a lot of rubber found in your daily life, like shoes or gloves, aren’t pure materials. They usually have something synthetic in the mixture, which makes them less effective than pure rubber.

Wood can technically conduct electricity, especially once it gets wet. We wouldn’t recommend using wood to hold in a current. On that note, we also see a lot of ideas about power lines. Contrary to popular belief, power lines don’t need to be insulated.

In fact, the majority of power lines don’t have any insulation. Part of the reasoning is cost, because it’s very expensive, but it’s also about protection. Aside from a coating to resist weather, power lines don’t really need anything extra to be safe.

How Fast Can it Go, Really?

We’ve all seen cartoons where electricity moves in an instant. Our team has worked with electricity for a long time, though, so we know the facts. Electricity is extremely fast, but it’s not faster than light. In comparison, light travels 100 times faster than your electrical current.

With that said, electricity goes over 1,000 miles per hour. So, while it can get from your electrical panel to the various parts of your home quickly, it’s still not “faster than light,” as so many things depict.

There are a lot more facets and myths regarding electricity that you might be interested in. We completely understand wanting to know more about the thing that powers your appliances and causes anything from a blackout to an electrical fire.

Because it can be such a fickle thing, it’s important to know who to trust when you need help. If you need repairs or replacements for your electrical appliances, you should always work with a professional like Turner On Services.

We can handle all of the above, as well as rewiring or even just a safety inspection to give you peace of mind. If you want to know more about electricity or schedule any of our services, don’t hesitate to give us a call today and let us show you why we’re the best!

Don’t hesitate to ask about our lighting services, generator installation services, and smart home technology!

Don’t Overload Your Power Points

With more electrical devices in the average home than ever, it’s not hard to overload a breaker. It could be that you’ve got too many appliances hooked into one outlet or a wiring issue. At the end of the day, it’s about circuits, your electrical panel, power points.

We’re not talking about the software. A power point refers to an outlet, which can overload if you have too many electrical demands on it. Once an overload happens, anything plugged into that outlet will turn off. Unfortunately, it could blow a fuse that needs replacing or damage equipment.

The good news is that a lot of modern electrical appliances have steps in place to avoid an electrical fire. Your electrical panel probably shuts off automatically if it senses an overload. There are many things you can do to reduce electrical demand or blow a fuse.

Don’t Put Your Eggs in One Basket

When you’ve got a power point that’s being overloaded, there are several signs to watch for. Some of the most common issues are:

1. Lights cutting in and out or flickering
2. A burning smell or singed outlet
3. Slow charging for devices
4. Buzzing or a low hum sound from your outlet

All of these can indicate that your power point has too many things plugged in, or too many that use a lot of electricity. When that happens, you should make use of multiple outlets. A rule of thumb is to connect a single large appliance per outlet.

That means your microwave shouldn’t be plugged into the same point as your toaster. If you’re short on outlets, you have the option to use a power strip. While our team at Turner On Services can always install and wire new outlets, you might get by with a power strip.

The biggest danger there is that it makes it easier to overload a circuit with more plugs. Multiple small devices might work, though. When not in use, you can always turn off the power strip and prevent passive electricity loss.

If you use a power strip, we recommend a surge protector. It’s also good to check the amps your strip or protector is capable of. Our experts can help if you have any questions or need more outlets for your electrical appliances, so give us a call today!

Due for an Upgrade?

If you’re careful with your power points and still dealing with an overloaded system, it could be that your electrical panel is outdated. There are many reasons you might need a better panel. You could have a fuse box, especially if your home is 20 or more years old.

These weren’t intended for the amp requirements of modern households. An older electrical panel can also have fewer circuits or have a lower amp capacity. Whatever the case, an overloaded panel could lead to an electrical fire or damaged devices.

The danger of the former is obvious, but damaged appliances can be expensive to replace or fix. Turner On Services has a team of experts that can do all of those things or upgrade your electrical panel to avoid issues completely.

Power points could also overload if the wiring is worn down, done wrong, or made with knob or tube. We can rewire your home and help you relax in comfort knowing you’re safer. If you need any of our electrical services, give us a call today for an inspection!

Don’t hesitate to ask about our lighting services, generator installation services, and smart home technology!

It Could Be Time for an Outlet Replacement

Most modern households use a lot of electricity, which means wear on your outlets. Whether it’s improper wiring, an outdated electrical panel, or more appliances, you could overload your circuit. Unfortunately, they can wear out over time, too.

If left alone, your home or business could be in danger of an electrical fire or damaged devices. The good news is that there are several signs to watch for to know it’s time for a new outlet. One obvious sign is if the outlet stops working completely.

It could just be a tripped breaker, and you should check if the other outlets work. That’s just the start of things to watch for, though. Turner On Services can help with outlet replacement when the time comes, so give us a call if you spot anything!

Trust Your Senses

The five senses can tell us a lot about things in our everyday lives. What you might not know is that your sight, smell, touch, and hearing can help avoid electrical disaster. Look at your outlets from time to time and pay attention to singed marks around the cover.

Darkened plates could mean that the outlet wiring is sparking or the circuit is shorting out. Avoid using that outlet until it’s been replaced. Likewise if you notice physical damage to the outlet cover. This could let dust or other particles inside to collect.

Once that plug is used, the gathered dust could cause an arc flash of 1,000 degrees. You should also feel your outlet when you’re using it to make sure it’s not hot or warm. If it is, that could mean an issue with the wiring.

Any improper or worn out wiring can cause an electrical fire, so replacing the outlet might not be enough. Among our many services, Turner On Services can replace or rewire your home. You should also call us if you smell anything burning or notice a spark when you plug something in. Here are some of the other common issues that could need outlet replacement by our professionals:

1. If your outlet is loose and plugs keep falling out, it could be that it’s worn out. This can lead to sparks or an electrical fire.
2. Grounded outlets have 3 holes as opposed to 2. If your outlet isn’t grounded, it could be more susceptible to overloading from a lightning storm or appliances that use a lot of amps. We strongly recommend letting us install grounded outlets.
3. You should update any outlets that were there with a home you’ve bought recently. Outdated outlets could be dangerous.
4. A charger that cuts in and out or any kind of breaking circuit could mean there’s a problem. It could be that the outlet’s worn down or damaged, or there could be a short circuit. 

If you notice any of these signs or have any concerns about your outlets, we can replace or repair them. Just call us today and get started with an estimate!

Upgrade Your Outlets

A lot of homes have older outlets or haven’t heard of a ground fault circuit interrupter. These GFCI outlets are more resistant to electrical shock and moisture. We recommend letting us install these in rooms like the bathroom and kitchen.

They can prevent an electrical fire or short circuit from occurring. Most GFCI outlets can last around a decade, so even if you have them you might need to replace them after a while. It never hurts to have your outlets inspected by a professional, either. GFCI outlets have extra safety features in place to prevent a power surge. If they detect any signs of an overloaded circuit, they turn off automatically. Whether you need to replace your outlets or let us upgrade them, give us a call now and schedule your inspection!

Don’t hesitate to ask about our lighting services, generator installation services, and smart home technology!

Understanding Your Home’s Wiring

A lot of homeowners don’t know much about the power coming into their homes. While it’s good to know about electricity, the wiring can be even more important. That’s because there are a lot of issues that can come from improper or outdated wiring.

If you’ve got an older house, the electrical wiring and panel could be inefficient for modern voltage demands. In fact, the entire electrical system in your home might not be enough to handle the amps required to power your appliances and devices.

Older homes are also prone to having ungrounded fixtures and outlets. Our team at Turner On Services knows the updated safety codes to make sure your home is secure. While you might not be required to rewire your home, it’s a good idea to keep you safe.

Whether it’s a wiring issue or a lack of grounding, you should always hire a professional for the best results. To get started, give us a call today and schedule an inspection you can trust!

Grounding and Polarization

If you weren’t aware, a grounded plug has 3 prongs instead of 2 in the plug. That third hole gives electricity another current to flow through, which can spread out the amps and send it into the earth. This can prevent an electrical shock if there’s an issue with your outlet.

The way a grounded circuit works is with a grounding rod. This part goes no less than 8 feet in the earth near your home or through a cold water pipe. It can also involve metal sheathing or wiring that connects separately from the rest to a neutral section on your electrical panel.

While it’s possible to ground each outlet by itself, it’s more cost-efficient and effective to have them grounded together. This brings us to polarization, because our experts know all about electricity and the best ways to handle it.

Outlets with only 2 holes aren’t grounded or polarized. Even if you don’t have grounded plugs in your home, it’s crucial to at least have them polarized. This can keep you safer from damaged appliances or power surges.

The bad news is that older wiring, like tube or knob material, might not be grounded, which means we can’t install a grounded outlet. That might cause electrical issues or put your property in danger.

However, we’re the experts for a reason. We can ground your circuits and install ground fault circuit interrupter outlets. These upgraded outlets are polarized and grounded, which provide the safest results. If you want the best, give us a call today and get started!

Feel Safer with Electrical Grounding

If you live in an older house, your electricity might go through neutral wiring instead of being grounded. Even if it is grounded, it might be connected to a metal pipe. If it’s the former, it could be less efficient or dangerous. The latter might be pointless for grounding, though.

A lot of “updated grounding” that comes out of your home or business might have a plastic water pipe connected to your building. That makes it useless and puts your electrical system at risk.

Aluminum grounding can also become corroded over time, which can allow the wires to get damp. If that happens, or you don’t have the required materials and electrodes, your grounding might not work properly.

Turner On Services offers a number of electrical services. Our team of experts has a lot of experience with residential and commercial buildings, so you can trust us. Call us today to schedule an inspection, or feel free to ask any questions you have!

Don’t hesitate to ask about our lighting services, generator installation services, and smart home technology!

Top Electrician in Batavia, OH

There are a lot of homes in Batavia, OH and the surrounding area. If you’ve just moved into a new home or become a homeowner for the first time, you might want to know the best ways to keep your electrical systems safe.

One thing you can do is identify the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters. These GFCI’s are special outlets designed to prevent electrocution. They’re usually installed in bathrooms, kitchens, and garages. You might have one on your home’s exterior, too.

Thanks to the National Electrical Code, any new home has to have GFCI’s installed. While that means you’re safer with a new house, you’ll need to double-check an older home. These might not have them, so you’ll need a professional electrician to install them.

That’s where we come in. Turner On Services is prepared to help with your GFCI’s or any electrical need you may have. All you have to do is call us today and we’ll get started with an inspection and estimate!

Fast Electrician in Batavia, OH

A key to electrical safety is knowing how to turn everything off. It may seem simple, but breakers aren’t as simple as flicking a light switch. After all, there are electrical circuits all over your home. One wrong move with electricity and you could make the problem worse.

Whether you’ve got a fuse box or an electrical panel, you have breakers. Each breaker is associated with a circuit that powers an outlet. By turning off a given breaker, you’re effectively turning off power to that circuit.

If you’re lucky, each circuit is labeled. If you’re even luckier, the labels are correct. Some previous owners or electricians will change wiring and forget to change labels, so it’s always good to know which breaker goes to what when you move in.

With circuits, it’s also crucial to understand wattage. Every circuit can only handle so much power before it gets overloaded. Major appliances should be limited to one per outlet. Too many high-voltage appliances can cause an electrical fire or damage to your devices.

If you want to know more or need more outlets installed, you can trust our electrician in Batavia, OH or surrounding areas. We can handle your circuits or recommend the best products. For example, you can save with LED bulbs, so don’t hesitate to call us today!

Trust Your Electrician in Batavia, OH

We know how tempting it can be to fix things yourself. However, when it comes to electricity, it can be dangerous or even fatal.

Touching an exposed wire by accident or handling the wrong thing can give you an electric shock or start a fire. The same goes for waiting too long between inspections.

We recommend an annual inspection to be safe. Our team will check for issues for maintenance or replacement. In many cases, we can fix a minor problem before it grows into a much more expensive one. If it’s been a while since your last inspection or you just want to be aware, there are signs to watch for.

If you spot any of these things, you should call us as soon as possible: Flickering lights A burning or smoky smell from your outlet Your outlets are glowing or bright You get zapped by the light switch Lights cut off randomly You hear a buzzing or humming sound from the switch.

Those are just a few of the common reasons for an electrician. If you notice anything like that, or just want peace of mind, feel free to call. Of course, we can also take care of rewiring, installations, and electrical panel replacements. Considering the fact that you could save with an upgraded panel, it’s worth finding out.

Let our experts show you all the ways you could benefit with your electricity when you call us today!

Don’t hesitate to ask about our lighting services, generator installation services, and smart home technology!