If you’re ever remodeling a room or making repairs, you’ll eventually need the service of a reputable electrician. Choosing the right electrical company may be a challenge; you need to keep an eye out for the scammy electrician.

Just because an electrician advertises themselves as a reliable and licensed company, it does not mean that it is your best option. Electricians may vary in terms of their standard quality of service. However, despite being licensed and insured, there are still business owners who will still attempt fraud by offering scams and shady practices to unbeknownst customers.

Here are some ways to help you avoid a scammy electrician:

1.   Compare estimates and assess them.

As you will most likely be able to find a number of licensed electricians in Denver who seemingly have what it takes to do your electrical project at home, the first thing you should be doing is to list your top options and ask for an estimate from each of them. Once done, simply compare their estimates and if you find one strangely lower than the others, you might want to scratch it off your list as it may not be a great deal. As the saying goes, “If it is too good to be true, it probably is not true.”

2.   Know what you are paying for and make sure you are getting it all.

One of the common yet least noticeable types of scams is when one gets charged for things or services he has not fully gotten. Apparently, this type of scam is also common in the electrical field. There are electricians, both small-time ones, and those from known service providers who will guiltlessly try to do a scam by overcharging. This is especially common in circuit wiring activities where normally, an electrician is billed per circuit. For instance, the scammy electrician will ask you to pay for three circuits’ worth but in truth, he only installed one and you would not be able to know you got scammed until you decided to check and found out the other two did not work.

Avoid the scam; do not hesitate to ask your electrician to show you the work that was completed once finished. Also, it is your right to thoroughly check and question the bill you are presented with. At the same time, make sure everything is being accounted for.

3.   Keep an eye on the work.

An honest and reliable electrician will not feel awkward if he is being watched at work because he knows he is working with quality and confidence. Some even love being watched because it gives them the opportunity to educate the homeowner about his electrical system and the must-do’s in case problems arise.

The right electrician will be concerned about your household’s safety. Meanwhile, the scammy one would more likely feel uncomfortable with your eyes around because he either really never had enough skills to do the work, likes to take breaks, or has just plainly intended to scam by starting a job and not completing it.

4.   Ask your electrician to show you their license and insurance for verification.

Electricians are obliged to bring their state license with them so that it can be presented to a customer whenever requested. As the homeowner, help reduce your home’s fire hazards from faulty electrical wiring by hiring the right professional. Ask your electrician to show you his license and insurance when arrived. The right electrician will be proud to show it to you. Meanwhile, the scammy one may not even have a license to show.   

5.   Do not be desperate; keep your calm.

Although electrical emergencies can really happen, always make sure you decide soundly and properly in choosing an electrician. Ending up with a bad or scammy electrician will not only put your money to waste but also puts you and your family’s safety at high risk.

Handle electrical emergencies better. In such cases, it pays to know a licensed electrician you know you can call and rely on at all times to deliver quality and honest electrical services. Do your research today; find the best electrical contractor in town. You will be thankful you did.

6.   Fast-talking electricians may be scammers.

Scammers are not limited to people with incompetent skills. Even knowledgeable electricians can be scammers too. These types of people usually overwhelm homeowners with their knowledge, flooding their potential victims with impressive terms just to win the job. And then that’s it – the contract’s signed, the deal’s sealed, but the quality of services is at serious risk.

Meanwhile, real reputable electricians usually will be delighted with explaining the repairs thoroughly. That may mean, speaking your language as opposed to electrical jargon.

Finding a reliable electrical contractor in Arvada is not always easy but hopefully, this article has helped you know the telltale signs of such rampant scams. Do not be scammed, choose wisely.

Young children are curious little beings that are expected to be crawling around, checking out every single thing in sight. Hence, if you are a parent, childproofing your house is a must. This means blocking the staircases, installing soft play mats in common areas, omitting choking hazards, and most importantly electrical outlet safety to the sockets or devices by ensuring that they’re out of harm’s way for your child should be taken seriously. 

“Do we need to make electrical repairs prior to having our child?”

While going for an electrical system revamp seems like the safest solution there is, the cost of such repairs is not very practical. The good news is, there are still other budget-friendly ways to keep your kids safe from electric sockets and other electrical hazards at home. 

Below are some tips to help you:

Tip #1: Make it a habit to unplug all appliances when they are not in use.

Do this before you allow yourself to rest or sleep at bedtime. Make keep your kid away from wiring hazards or the appliances to avoid any shocks or potential fire hazards. 

 Tip #2: As much as possible, keep your wires and outlets out of your kid’s sight.

One effective way of doing it is by placing a frame, a cabinet, or any objects in front of the socket to conceal its presence in the area. 

Tip #3: If concealing seems insufficient, use electrical outlet caps instead. This is one cheap way to prevent your kid from sticking their fingers or other objects into the outlet.  

Electrical outlet caps are widely available and one of the easiest ways to ensure electrical outlet safety. They are made of plastic and are designed to easily plug into your sockets. The cap’s outer area is purposely solid flat so that toddlers will not be able to grip on it, thereby dismissing any opportunities of them poking anything into the outlet. 

Tip #4: Cover your power strips. 

A lot of people are fond of using power strips as a cheap and convenient solution to have more electrical wall receptacles to power multiple appliances at once. Power strips are usually placed on the ground, hence a real hazard potential especially to the eyes of toddlers.

Tip #5: Minimize or stop using extension cords.

Power strips and extension cords are a big no, especially in your kid’s room. Although they are very convenient to use, they are never kid-friendly. 

Nowadays, just search on Google for residential electrical repair services so that you can easily install more outlets or lighting to any room in your household. You never have to settle with extension cords or stand-alone light fixtures that will expose the outlet sockets. 

Tip #6: Tie the cords of your appliances to avoid accidental falls. 

Excessive cord wiring is common with a lot of appliances that sit near the outlet. This excess can easily loop around the foot, causing the victim to stumble and fall. Besides the injuries it can cause, the fall can be enough to abruptly pull the plug from the socket. This can downright cause a spark, increasing the risk of fire if not managed right. While you already have the mental capacity to stay away from such incidents, your kid does not. Keep your child safe by tying the cords. 

Tip #7: Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters or GFCIs. 

GFCIs are responsible for shutting the power off as soon as any liquid is leaking from the circuit to the ground which can cause electrical shock. They are best installed in rooms that have water sources like bathrooms and kitchens but you can install one in your living room too especially if your kid frequently roams around the area. 

Tip #8: Use nightlights for your kid’s room. 

Using nightlights will help keep your kid safe especially if already potty trained. This ensures that the room is sufficiently lit in case if they get up at night to use the bathroom. You can opt for table-mounted or outlet-mounted ones but the latter is better as it also functions as an outlet cover. 

Tip #9: Do not hoard faulty appliances. 

Do not let your kid suffer from the risk of electrical shock by playing old appliances. Remove the clutter so that your child doesn’t even get near faulty appliance chords or devices. 

Tip #10: Regular electrical maintenance is the key. 

Your frayed and loose wires need urgent attention. Do not let them stay like that for long. As mentioned above, you can shop for cord covers and outlet caps and do the maintenance on your own, or you can seek a professional Arvada electrician, such as ElectriCall. 

The latter will make sure everything in your electrical system is thoroughly checked while eliminating any hazards. Regular electrical maintenance, such as electrical outlet safety, is like an investment for the whole family’s safety and the perks of having a properly working electrical system are a bonus.

While our home is one of the most expensive investments that we’ll ever have, most people do not properly maintain them. Whether you need foundation repair, a new roof or new plumbing,  one item that often taken for granted is the need for making an electrical repair. 

In order to prevent fire or electrical incidents, such as shock, sparks or a surge, you’ll need to hire a licensed electrician, such as ElectriCall to make the proper repairs. This is why having a well maintained electrical system at home is truly worth it and necessary if you want to avoid any tragic incidents from happening. Electrical problems are to be taken seriously.  

Again, more often than not, an electrical problem can potentially cause serious issues and thereby necessitates timely electrical repair. As soon as you notice the following early warning signs, call a reliable home electrical repair service nearby right away:

BURNING ODOR. If you noticed the scent of burning rubber or plastic in your household, it could be that the wires are starting to burn from producing too much heat. This is clear enough to put your house on fire. Although issues like this need to be dealt with by a certified electrician, it is extremely important that you turn off the circuit breaker right away before the problem escalates.

BUZZING NOISES. Although most issues in the electrical system do not produce a buzzing noise, if the noise comes from your outlets or electrical devices, then it definitely warrants urgent attention.

A buzzing noise can be a sign that there is loose wiring in your circuit box, leaving the cover plates hot and unable to be touched. When you notice one, seek an electrician right away and have the electrical company test it with the right tools and equipment.

LIGHTING ISSUES. Although a flickering or dimming light is usually triggered by improper installation, if two or more bulbs are flickering, it could indicate an overloaded or loose connected circuit. To rule out the first, try reinstalling the bulbs. Make sure they are tightened onto their sockets.

LOOSE POWER OUTLETS. A loose power outlet could mean there is a loose connection. This clearly is a hazard that needs to be addressed urgently especially if you have kids at home. Leaving it unresolved can increase the risk of being electrocuted.

REPEATED BLOWN FUSES. An isolated blown fuse is not alarming but if the issue recurs, an electrical repair may be necessary. Frequently blown fuses are usually caused by an exposed wire, an outdated panel, or an underlying dangerous issue in the wiring.

SHOCK UPON UNPLUGGING. A shock from a normal static level may not raise the alarm unless it is experienced from an electrical outlet. As this is a serious threat to health and safety, having your electrical system inspected the soonest time possible is necessary.

SPARKS OR ARCS. Sparks or arcs of electricity usually indicate an existing build-up of excessive heat as a result of exposed wires. They necessitate urgent attention to avoid melted outlets or fire. While the problem is best managed by a licensed electrician, as a resident, shutting off the power circuit breaker is the first thing you must do to temporarily end the risk of fire.

Even a short delay in fixing your electrical problems at home can already pose serious threats not just to yourself and your family but also to your properties. Never let this happen. For reliable electrical repairs, give us a call at ElectriCall. We have a team of certified electricians seasoned and committed to doing the job with quality and affordability for years now. Call us today!

Understanding High Winter Energy Costs: Key Factors and Solutions

More often than not, a significant increase in the electricity bill will be seen during winter because of the heavy usage of heating systems and appliances. Specifically, however, that increase is caused by a few major factors in winter energy costs; knowing these factors is important if you’d like to save household energy costs this winter season.

Here are the main factors in winter energy costs:

CLIMATE COMFORT. Although the cold temperature outside is responsible for making you feel cold in the winter and fall seasons, the dry air inside your home also plays a role in burdening your indoor heating systems. Consequently, this can increase your energy bill too.

Thus, one way to reduce your energy consumption is by preventing dry air inside your home. You can do this by maintaining the humidity at the right level using a humidifier which does not only add warmth to your place but also helps fight flu and other seasonal health-related problems.

HEAT LOSS. Heat loss definitely is one of the major culprits of your spiking energy bill. You may have thought your household is already saved from the winter woes because you already have a good heating system in place. And then you got surprised by a whooping energy bill all because you failed to check every corner of your household first and mask every hole and drafts that may allow the heated air to escape. Your household just suffered a heat loss.

Before you start turning your heating system on, a thorough checkup of the following has to be done to make sure every leak or draft has already gotten rid of:

1.    Attic – Attics are one of the common sources of heat loss in United States according to studies. Make sure you have this checked especially, the insulation component to isolate the heated air.

2.    Doors and Windows – Old windows and doors may be leaking air and should be repaired or replaced before the winter starts. If you plan of acquiring new ones, make sure these are installed with reinforced window stripping or window coverings as these help avoid leaks and keep a tight seal on them.

SYSTEM EFFICIENCY. While ensuring that your household is kept warm via the first two factors, your electric problem will most likely remain unsolved if your heating system has already reached its inefficient stage. In fact, if your heating system is inefficient, it can take an enormous amount of energy to operate at optimum performance. 

Just because your heating system is still up and working after 15 years of usage, it does not mean it is as efficient and effective as it used to be. Without regular diagnostic testing from a local licensed HVAC company, their capability to heat air may take longer, thus more energy will be drawn, for them to function well. Since you will most likely be working with an HVAC company for your upgrades or heating system repairs, it will also help if you consult with your local licensed electrician to know whom they can recommend.

Take a look at: 10 Ways to Reduce Energy Use

Let us check your electrical system. Call ElectriCall today!

ElectriCall has been of service to the people needing electrical services in Arvada and the surrounding Denver metro area. We are a team of licensed electricians, seasoned at making a diagnosis of your electrical issues at an affordable price, be it energy bill related, or anything from installations to repairs. Have our professionals visit you onsite. You can always count on us!

Did you know that having outdated appliances can affect your electric bill? Not only that, but having outdated circuit breakers, wiring, and electrical panels can affect the safety and value of your home. Using outdated appliances can put you at risk, especially if you’re using an older electrical infrastructure. Oftentimes, simple repairs may not help you anymore.

Now that the new year is approaching, you may want to take advantage of all of the holiday sales specials for new appliances (if an appliance is outdated).

We all know that electrical issues are the most common reasons why there are house fires. If any of your appliances are outdated, especially the ones that draw a lot of power (microwaves, dryers, refrigerators, dishwashers, toasters, etc.), then you’re putting your home at risk.

Why shouldn’t you use outdated appliances

Below are the common reasons why it isn’t safe to keep using outdated electrical appliances:

1. For air conditioning units: Dirty filters can greatly affect indoor air quality. Also, excess moisture can attract molds and water damage.
2. For microwaves: Outdated microwaves can cause poorly-heated food. Using them may also cause the wires and their parts to burn, which leads to sparks, foul odors, or worse.
3. For refrigerators: Lack of cooling can cause the food to spoil easily, while it consumes more energy and increase your utility bills.
4. For ovens and stoves: Your cooking can suffer if you use outdated ovens and stoves. Using it can also trigger gas odors, fires, and explosions.
5. For washing machines/dryers: Leaks can cause water damage; Older dryers will require additional time in order to dry your clothes. The additional drying cycles will use up a lot more energy and increase your electric bill.

What are the signs your electrical system is outdated?

Below are the signs that your electrical system is already out-of-date:

1. Smoke. Whenever there’s smoke from an outlet or appliance, and you smell burnt plastic or vinyl, you must contact a licensed electrician right away.
2. Electrical noise. When you hear crackling, buzzing, or sizzling sounds from your switches and outlets, this means there is a serious problem, and you need to have a free electrical assessment.
3. Tripped circuit breakers. If you always reset your breakers, then your home is overloaded. This means there are too many appliances plugged in.
4. Damaged wiring. Outdated appliances can cause the wires to overheat. You will need to replace any old or damaged wiring immediately.
5. Dimming lights. If you notice your lights dimming when using a vacuum cleaner or other appliances, then this means that the circuit is overloaded. The wiring and other parts may be outdated.

So, if you haven’t updated your electrical system in a long time, then you’re jeopardizing your safety. Continuing to use outdated appliances can even be more dangerous when you use extension cords and power strips to plug them in. It will be better if you add more outlets and modernize your appliances. It’s also efficient and keeps you and your home safe. 

If you’re not sure whether any of your appliances are already out-of-date or not, then it’s best to contact ElectriCall if you’re near Denver or if you’re reading this from another area, then contact a local licensed electrician nearby. At ElectriCall, deliver a friendly, reliable, fast, and affordable services to help you with your needs as a homeowner. When you call us, your safety is guaranteed.