5 Signs Your Office Needs Electrical Work

If you have an office, chances are you rely on electrical systems and equipment to help you do your job. What happens when those systems start to fail due to electrical faults?

So how can you tell if your office needs some electrical work? There are many signs that indicate it may be time for an upgrade to your office’s electrical system. Many people overlook these warning signs until it is too late. Don’t be one of them! Ignoring these signs could result in serious problems, including fires or electrocution.

If your office is starting to experience any of the following five signs, then it may be time to call in a professional electrician to take a look.

5 Signs Your Office Needs Electrical Work

1. Dimming or flickering lights

If you’re noticing flickering or dimming lights in your office, this is a sign that your office’s electrical system is overloaded or failing and needs to be repaired or replaced.

Another reason for flickering lights is a problem with the light bulbs themselves. If you have fluorescent light bulbs in your office, they can sometimes flicker due to a defective ballast.

2. Outlets that spark or emit a burning smell

If an outlet is sparking or emitting a burning smell, it is a sign that the outlet is overloaded and needs to be replaced or that there is a loose connection that needs to be fixed. Either way, it is important to have an electrician check it out to ensure that the problem is resolved and that there is no danger of fire or electrocution.

3. Outlets that don’t work

If outlets in your office are not working, it is a sign that your office needs electrical work. This could be because the outlets are not properly grounded, there is a wiring problem, or there is a problem with the circuit breaker.

4. Frequent circuit breaker trips

If you’re noticing that your circuit breakers are tripping frequently, it’s a sign that your office’s electrical system is overloaded. This is usually caused by too many devices or appliances being plugged into the same circuit. To fix this, you’ll need to have an electrician add additional circuits or rewire the existing ones.

5. Frayed or damaged cords

Frayed or damaged cords are a sign that your office needs some electrical work because it means that the cords are not able to properly connect to the electrical outlets. This can be a fire hazard and can also cause the electrical current to fluctuate, which can damage electronic equipment.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to contact a qualified electrician, like A to Z Electric, as soon as possible. Don’t try to fix the problem yourself, as you could end up causing more damage or even injuring yourself.

A to Z Electric is a licensed and insured electrical contractor serving the Dallas/Fort Worth area that can help you with all your office electrical needs. Contact us today to request a quote.

Teaching Electrical Safety to Your Kids

Electricity is all around us. That is why it is extremely important to teach kids electrical safety once they begin to become curious about their environment.

Teaching Electrical Safety to Your Kids

When & how should I teach them?

When they are very young, it is best to keep the terms vague, as they won’t yet be proficient in understanding the why and the how. At this stage, it is easiest to deter using words like “no” and “ouch.” Remember to also utilize childproof safety tools, like outlet covers and cabinet locks.

Once your child is receptive to conversation and learning, you can start to use different tools to teach them the basics of electrical safety.  A good tip is to utilize the many resources people have already created for this exact reason, such as videos, video games, guides, and books about electrical safety. These are fun ways to encourage and promote learning. Your child may even want to continue learning on their own!

Once they reach school age, you can start to lay down concrete rules to keep them safe. You can also teach them the complexities of what electricity is. Some parents might find it fun to do some science experiments with their children to encourage curiosity and learn more about why and how electricity works!

What should I teach them?

Here are some simple rules to keep kids safe around electricity.

  • Stay away from large electrical equipment; light poles, electrical boxes, etc.
  • Do not pull on cords.
  • Stay away from wires that appear broken.
  • Do not stick anything in an outlet, except for electrical plugs.
  • Water and electricity do not mix.
  • Do not climb trees close to power lines.
  • How to call 911 if someone appears hurt.

We know that electrical safety is confusing for people of all ages, that’s where we come in. A to Z Electric serves customers with promptness and reliability. Whether it be repairs, upgrades, or new construction, you can count on us for all of your electrical needs. Contact us today.

Pool Heaters: Everything you Need to Know

The seasons are changing, and summer is fast approaching. You’re probably ready to pull back your pool cover in time for the hot season. While summer will be short-lived, you don’t have to spend a short time enjoying your pool. Pool heaters are the deal. You can easily extend your swimming season by months, depending on where you live. If pool heaters are a foreign concept for you, then you may have questions like:

  • Will the pool heat up like a Jacuzzi?
  • Can I use the pool in winter?
  • Will it be safe?

These queries are all valid. Here are some facts about pool heaters that will hopefully answer all that:

Pool Heaters: Everything you Need to Know

Pool Heaters Work like your Swimming Pool Water Filter

Regular maintenance is essential whether you occasionally use your pool or cover it from summer to summer. One way to clean your pool is using a water filter. The filter works by channeling water through a strainer, which goes back into the pool. Pool heaters work similarly. All models work the same way. Pool water is taken from the pool, passed through the heater, heated then filtered back into the pool.

There are Three Types of Pool Heaters: Electric, Gas, and Solar

Gas Heaters- this can be a great option if you can access affordable natural gas. However, gas emissions are harmful to the environment, but they work quickly and are available all year.

Solar Heaters- these are cost-effective but have limitations. They work best if you live in a sunny area.

Electric Heaters- also known as heat pumps, are a more eco-friendly option. They use electricity to heat your pool and are way cheaper to use. They also have a longer shelf-life; you’re good to go as long as you have power.

Pool Heater Installation

Now that you know how pool heaters work, you should partner with A to Z Electric, Inc. We have a team of skilled electricians with extensive experience in pool heater installation. Contact us today for a seamless experience at a price that won’t break your bank.

What Happens During An Electrical Inspection?

It is hard to tell if an electrical system is up to code by just looking at it. That is why it is advisable to have an electrical inspection done by a professional to determine whether one’s electrical system meets the set electrical codes. Electrical inspections are conducted when opening a business, buying a home, or selling a house. Various things are checked during an electrical inspection.

What Happens During An Electrical Inspection?

What To Check During An Electrical Inspection

Some of the things that professional electricians check include:

Proper Circuits

Electricians usually check whether the number of circuits meets the demand of your home or business. In addition, the electrician will confirm whether there are dedicated circuits for the available appliances. This process also involves whether there is enough general lighting in the premise.

Wires and cables

Wireless wires may be installed incorrectly, old, or even damaged. Such instances can lead to dangerous situations if left without being attended to for a long period. Therefore, during electrical inspections, electricians checked how wires and cables clamped in their boxes. Electricians also check whether there is enough wire coming from the box, making it possible for future trimming and connection to devices.

Wire Labeling

It is very important to label wires according to their circuit number and the circuit’s amperage. When wires are labeled, inspectors usually feel reassured.

Electrical Boxes

One needs to ensure that their electrical boxes are big enough to hold the available number of wire conductors and devices. Therefore, it is better to use electrical boxes that are large and spacious. Electric meters should also be checked to ensure they are not rusted or water damaged and functioning well.

Hire A Professional Electrician

Checking the above details by yourself can be risky. Therefore, it is important to have a professional electrician; this is where AtoZ Electric comes in. This company provides the best electrical services, from repairs, upgrades, and inspections to new constructions. To add the icing on the cake, AtoZ Electric provides same-day services from their trusted electricians, ensuring their customers get the maximum satisfaction. Come to us for all your electric needs.

Common Reasons Your Breaker Might Be Tripping

Breakers frequently become overloaded when there’s too much electricity flowing through it. This is especially true in older homes. Flipping it back on is the easy part, but this doesn’t solve the problem of why it’s tripping in the first place. So how do you solve the problem? Here are a causes that your breaker might be tripping.

Common Reasons Your Breaker Might Be Tripping

Appliances Can Overload the Breaker

There are a number of reasons that an appliance can trip the breaker. First, it might be drawing too much power. With a larger appliance such as stoves, washing machines and more can all make this happen. Having too many appliances running at once will cause the breaker to overload and trip, on top of this. Another issue is that there might be a point in the wiring that’s faulty. Any issue with an appliance should be handled with care. There is always a chance of shock, making it dangerous to work with.

Short Circuiting

A short circuit is a shorter path for electricity to flow through that leads to an overload of energy being delivered. This may not seem obvious at first on why it’s short circuiting, but it can be caused by any number of issues by nature (water, trees, etc.) or any object that completes a shorter path. If you can’t find the cause, calling a professional will help solve the issue quickly.

Grounding

Completing a circuit by grounding is extremely dangerous. This is caused by anything that conducts the flow to the ground, including yourself. Breakers that experience this can catch fire and cause untold damage. Breakers that don’t meet standards for grounding are more prone to this happening. Having an electrician check if you have a GFCI, Ground Fault Circuit interrupter, will ensure you are protected.

If you need a professional to check why your breaker keeps tripping in the Dallas area, AtoZ Electric is ready to help. We care about our customers’ satisfaction and can do the same for you. Don’t wait for more damage to the breaker to occur, contact us today and we’ll be happy to help.

Signs that you Urgently Need an Electrician

Shockingly, more than 50,000 house fires are caused by electrical malfunctions every year, accounting for more than thirteen billion dollars’ worth of property damage! I’m definitely sure that you do not want to end up in the tally. Electricity has become a basic need in our households, and without it, the household comes to a standstill.
If you want to keep that fridge running, watch your favorite programs on television and charge your phone and laptop to keep up with friends on social media, it is essential to ensure that your electrical system is well maintained and repaired if need be. More importantly, you should be aware of when you should call the electrician. Here are a few signs to look out for.

Signs that you Urgently Need an Electrician

1. Flickering lights

Does your fridge or air conditioner give your lights a moment’s pause when switched on? Have you noticed your lamps dimming when you turn your hairdryer on? Make an effort to find out the devices that cause lights to dim or flicker. Certain devices, such as motor-driven devices, draw a lot of current when plugged in, causing the flickering of lights. However, if smaller appliances also cause the flickering of lights, then you could have an overloaded circuit. You had better call the electrician when this happens; otherwise, you will end up blowing fuses and tripping circuit breakers.

2. A smoky smell in the air

If you notice a burning smell in the air, you could be at risk of a house fire due to burning wires. As soon as you realize the smell in the house, you should immediately turn off the power to your house and call the electrician. Ensure you do not turn the power back on until the necessary repairs are made.

3.  Tripping fuses and circuit breakers

If your fuses keep blowing or circuit-breakers tripping, then it is an indication that the appliances in the circuit are drawing more current than the fuses can handle. In such situations, most people replace the fuses with ones that have a higher ampere rating. However, this is a safety risk! You can install fuses that allow so much current to pass through that the wires within the house burn out, causing fires. Therefore, it is in your best interest that you call your electrician in such situations.

4. Buzzing sounds on your walls

Loose connections at terminals are the most likely reason for buzzing in your walls or sockets. When this happens, you do not have to tear down your walls to tighten the terminals. Just call a professional, and the necessary repairs will be done, and you won’t have to put yourself at risk of electrical shocks.

5. Making an electrical outlet extension

With increasing technology, our dependence on electricity is simultaneously growing. The increased demand for power necessitates more electrical outlets in the house. You do not want to overload your sockets with many extension cords in one area. For an extension in the outlets, you can call a professional for the installation of additional conduits. Electrical conduits protect the wires from damage and protect you and your family from electrical shocks.

6. Getting electric shocks when you plug in your appliances

A slight electric shock can occur due to static charges building up on a surface. However, frequent electrical shocks when plugging in your appliances are signs you do not want to ignore. You could be dealing with a damaged circuit, broken cords, or an unstable electrical circuit. Ensure you call your electrician when you get frequent electrical shocks.

Final Thought

Electricity is dangerous and can easily disrupt the nervous system. Even worse, a significant amount of current passing through your body can kill you! Therefore, do not hesitate to call an electrician when repairs to your electrical system are required. Also, carry out routine maintenance after about three years to ensure electrical safety. You may want to save that dollar that the electrician will charge, but think of what you stand to lose. Remember, your safety is priceless. As always, we are one call away. So, contact us  at A to Z Electric in case you need additional information on electrical repairs or any repair or maintenance in your household.

4 Key Construction Electrical Walk-Throughs and Tips

Are you excited because of your new home? Not only should you focus on the aspects of project management and its unique design, but electrical requirements are also necessary. There are consequences if you overlook the electrical part during construction. Safety and health risks are highly involved, but here is a brief guide of what you need to know. Check on these to know electrical walk-throughs from A to Z Electrical if you have new construction.

4 Key Construction Electrical Walk-Throughs and Tips

LOCATION OF THE ELECTRICAL OUTLETS
There should be appropriate coordination between the outlets of electricity connection and that of electrical equipment. Therefore, you need to determine positions where electrical outlets should be set up. It’s necessary to consult an expert; hence A to Z Electrical are the best experts. You can consult our experts, and they will ensure you get the right power outlets for your home. Our electricians will design a solution that involves the right cables and power outlets for your electrical equipment.

MAKE THE RIGHT DECISION ON YOUR HOUSE WIRING SYSTEM
You shouldn’t compromise your house’s electrical system, hence the need to hire professionals. A to Z Electrical offers services at an affordable cost. Our electricians will ensure that your house gets good electrical service that suits everyone’s needs in your new home.
Thus, three wiring systems are available. They include surface conduit, lead sheathed, and concealed conduit wiring systems. You will get the correct information from our electricians on which wiring system is the best.

DO YOU NEED CUSTOMIZED LIGHT SWITCHES?
Creativity can be extended to light switches. You can use LED control panels or other lighting systems to make your house look attractive. Further, power outlets can also be customized using USB charging portals.

CONSIDER EXTRA ENERGY REQUIREMENTS
Due to advanced technology, you might have larger visual, audio, or entertainment systems placed in your home office. If so, you might consider advancing your electrical wiring system. You can check on the suitable options.

GET HELP FROM AN ELECTRICIAN
For your new home, it’s ideal for getting help for your electrical needs. A to Z Electrical services focuses on construction projects and electrical services. You can contact us to reach our friendly electricians to complete the electrical system for your newly constructed house. It is vital to finish electrical installations before the house’s frame gets fully finalized.

 

Types of Electrical Upgrades for Your Home

There are multiple electrical upgrades you can do in your home. Probably, you live in an older home with older electrical fixtures, and you want to give your home a new face. You can do much more and make your home fresh with new upgrades. Here are several things you can do.

Types of Electrical Upgrades for Your Home

Install Lighting Fixtures

Changing your lighting fixtures to LED lights can save you a lot of money in the long run. These fixtures consume less power but give you the maximum lighting. You can be sure of paying lower energy bills in the long run. The fixtures also come in different colors that enhance the beauty of your home.

Patio Wiring

Whether at night or during the day, you can spend time on your patio and feel the fresh air as you take a cold drink. It is best to consider the electrical wiring of the patio for maximum usage of the space. An electrician can install lighting, circuits, and charging systems to keep the patio safe and brighter.

Install Smart Switches

With the advanced technology today, you can install flexible switches that enable you to control lighting using your phone. The beauty of this technology is that even if you forget to switch off the lights when leaving your home, you can still control them. It is convenient and also makes your home more secure.

Install Outlets behind Appliances

If you have mounted TVs or projectors, you can install outlets behind the appliances. This makes your home more organized and safe. You do not have to worry about wires hanging loosely down the wall. An electrician can install many outlets behind different appliances based on your needs.

Hire a Professional Electrician

Repairing, installing, and fixing electrical outlets and other fixtures can be risky if you do not have the expertise. This work is best left to an electrician who understands the safety protocol. Contact us today for professional electrical upgrades worth value for your money.

The Top 8 Reasons to Call An Electrician

How often do you conduct a routine electrical maintenance in your home? Usually, homeowners or residents pay attention to electrical issues after the damage has occurred.
Do you know that electrical fault is the leading cause of residential fires, and short circuits are the leading cause of 51% of electrical fires?
In this era, an electrical appliance dominates your space, which makes your life simpler. Go a day without electricity, and your life will come to a halt. Be it on hot summer days or freezing winters.

The Top 8 Reasons to Call An Electrician

The top 8 Reasons to Call An Electrician
DIY home repairs might seem like a great way to save money and achieve a sense of accomplishment. Well, changing a bulb can make one.
However, some electrical diagnostics and repairs are better left to professional electricians because they can lead to property loss or death.
Here are reasons to call an electrician to address critical electrical problems:

1.    Tripping Circuits
Suppose you find yourself constantly resetting your breakers, without any power overload on your outlets, like once every day or twice per week, call an electrician. It’s a sign of a critical issue that requires attention.

2.    Flickering lights
A flickering light can mean a loose bulb or faulty electrical wiring. If a light dims or gets brighter over time, call an electrician.
Always make observations and note when flickering lights occur. If the occurrence is at a specific time every day, it could be power grid overload. If it occurs when using other appliances, call an electrician.

3.    Electrical Shocks
Are you getting shocked when in contact with the power outlets? It could mean broken cords, unstable current or damaged circuits. Call an electrician to avoid electrocution and house fires.

4.    Warm Outlets
Warm power outlets, switches or electrical systems are always a sign of overheating in the electrical systems. It’s a looming danger, for they can spark a fire at any moment.
Look out for discoloration and blackening on the wire ends and switch plates. It’s a sign of sparking which poses a critical safety hazard.

5.    Burning Smell
Is there a burning smell of rubber in the house? Can you figure out where the smoke is coming from? First, turn off the power supply to the house and call the fire department. Call a professional to conduct a thorough inspection of your home.

6.    Buzzing Sound
Buzzing sound from your walls could mean looming danger from loose terminals or serious wiring issues. Do not be tempted to tear down the walls, and they are not bees. Call a professional to carry out an inspection.

7.    High Electric Bill
Call an electrician to conduct an audit if your power bills shoot up with no additional appliances or hike in power bills. A faulty system is the cause.

8.    Old Houses
If you’re moving to an older house, call a professional to conduct an inspection. Most old houses have worn out wiring systems which could pose imminent danger.

Do you need prompt and reliable electricians to evaluate and address your electrical needsBook your appointment today to get a free quote. Keeping your property and your loved ones safe is our number one priority.

Contact us; our elite team is on standby for same-day services to cater for your pressing needs.

What You Need To Know About 3-Way Switch

This electrical switch allows you to control a light or other electrical device from two different locations. It can be instrumental in homes and businesses alike. We will go over how it works, some of its applications, and some tips for installing and using it.

What You Need To Know About 3-Way Switch

1. How It Works

A three-way switch has three terminals, and each terminal can either connect to the hot wire from the power source or to one of the lights. The hot wire is usually black, and the other cables are white.

When all three terminals are connected, the light will be on. If one of the terminals is disconnected, the light will be off.

2. Applications

One of the most common uses for a three-way switch is to control a light from two different locations. For example, you might have a light at the top and bottom of a staircase. With a three-way switch, you can turn the light on or off from either location.

3. Installation

When installing a three-way switch, it’s important to note that you should always turn off the power in the breaker box before working on any electrical wiring. It’s also a good idea to use a voltage tester to make sure that the power is off before starting.

Once the installation is complete, you can do a few things to ensure it works properly. First, test the switch by flipping it up and down a few times. Next, try turning on the light or outlet from both locations. If everything is working correctly, the light should turn on and off as you flip the switch.

Final Thoughts

A three-way switch is a handy way to control a light or outlet from two different locations. It’s easy to install and use various applications. Just ensure caution when working with electricity, and test the switch before using it.

At A to Z Electric, we offer commercial electric services. Our licensed, certified, and routinely trained technicians are skilled professionals your company is looking for. We pride ourselves on catering to thousands of customers all over Dallas. We can repair and install anything in your home or office. Contact us today and book your appointment today.