Your home’s electrical system, whether connected to the grid or not, is susceptible to the effects of weather change. Depending on the weather, the damage can either be sudden or occur through attrition. Now, add in the fact that Colorado’s weather can change on a dime, and you have pretty good reason to weatherize your home’s electrical system or have an electrical contractor do it for you.

Although Colorado isn’t particularly vulnerable to major natural disasters like earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods, sudden weather changes, harsh winters, and scorching summers can still bring costly damages. 

So, here are some ways you can get ahead of these problems in your home and avoid power disruptions and costly repairs.

Summer

With over 300 summer days, Denver, Colorado residents enjoy more hours of sunshine annually than people in Miami or San Diego. However, the heat can sometimes reach levels well over 100 degrees. Summer heat usually strains power plants, increasing the prospects of rolling blackouts. As any Arvada licensed electrician will tell you, temperatures hot enough to strain industrial power plants can damage electrical systems.

Here are some ways the summer heat can affect your electrical system:

• Heat waves increase the demand for electricity as the need for air conditioning increases in homes and commercial buildings.
• Power lines, cables, and switches tend to heat up and expand when there is greater demand for electricity and hot temperatures. The expansion of these components can cause connection problems and short circuits.
• The expansion of cables can cause lines to violate minimum clearance requirements between the line and any obstacles. Denver’s sudden temperature changes can exacerbate this problem and lead to permanent changes in cable length, a phenomenon called the “creep effect.”

You can mitigate the effects of hot weather on your electrical system by having it regularly maintained and inspected by a licensed Denver electrician. You can also insulate your home or work building to reduce the strain on your air conditioning, electrical system, and energy costs.

In case you missed it: 5 Tips to Save on Your Summer Electric Bill

Winter

Unlike the summer, Denver winters are short and surprisingly warm and sunny, with snow falling once or twice a week. However, like the summer, winter temperatures and weather changes can happen fast. A clear day can turn snowy, and while it doesn’t snow a lot when it does, it often settles several inches high. Heavy snow can also turn into snowstorms and blizzards, which can wreak havoc on electrical grids and systems.

It’s no secret that winter storms can lead to prolonged power outages, as powerful winds and the weight of snow can cause trees to fall on power poles and wires, and excessive use of electricity for heating in winter can also cause power outages as electrical systems are overloaded.

When a home’s electrical system remains under constant stress for a long time, it can result in tripping breakers. Additionally, low temperatures can cause wiring and electrical components to contract, potentially leading to cracks and damage. If moisture from rain, snow, or ice seeps into these cracks, it can lead to short circuits.

One of the best ways to prevent or minimize electrical issues in your home or work building during winter is by minimizing electrical strain on your system. You do this by:

• Investing in energy-efficient bulbs.
• Unplugging unused appliances.
• Turning down the thermostat.
• Replacing old and outdated appliances and equipment.

Remember to trim trees near your home’s power lines or electrical components. Investing in a backup generator is essential in reducing the effects of power outages in winter. To better prepare your electrical system for the Denver winter, you can get a residential electrician to inspect your home before the snow falls.

Recommended for you: 8 Must-Know Electrical Tips For Winter

Fall and Spring

Denver spring and fall are even shorter than winter but are subject to rapidly changeable weather patterns. Spring brings lots of sunshine, but residents expect a day or two of heavy snow or rain. Mid- and late spring can also bring strong hail and winds, which can cause significant damage to electrical systems and components.

Since Colorado’s hailstorms rank among the most active in the country, it’s important to take safety measures to protect your system. If you have a solar power system, the best way to protect it from hail is to add a protective cover. 

You can also ask your Arvada electrician which hail-resistant panel best fits your building. This will help avoid expensive unforeseen repairs in the future.

Stay Ahead Of Weather-related Electrical Issues With A Trusted Denver Electrician

Although we cannot control the weather, we can control how and to what extent it affects our lives. Hopefully, this article will help you prepare your electrical system for the changing seasons and erratic Denver weather.

Trusted electricians in Denver, CO, are ready to help ensure your safety and comfort all year round through routine maintenance and inspection of your electrical system. Find electrical contractors near you today.

Electricity powers our daily lives, and an Arvada electrician can help ensure that a building’s electrical systems are safe. Electrical systems are available everywhere in modern buildings like residential complexes and commercial high-rises. 

So, the conveniences that comes with electricity may pose some potential hazards necessitating the need for electrical safety training to benefit building occupants:

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, electrical injuries accounted for 5,486 fatal workplace injuries in 2022 alone. Building occupants need proper training and awareness to prevent such incidents. 

Components of Electrical Safety Training

Electrical safety training offers occupants the skills to identify and respond effectively to potential electrical dangers. Here are the components that electricians in Denver, CO, can teach to help you keep secure against electrical risks:

Understanding Electrical Hazards

You may encounter various dangers, such as electric shock, arc flashes, fires, and explosions, that may arise from electrical hazards. These hazards can cause long-term health issues or even death if not addressed. A licensed electrician can educate individuals about these hazards and how to prevent them. In this case, electrical safety may involve lessons on voltage, current, and resistance as well as the dangers of exposed wires, damaged insulation, overloaded circuits, and faulty equipment. It’s important that they also learn how to take appropriate precautions and follow safety protocols to reduce these risks.

Safe Equipment Usage

Individuals need to learn how to handle electrical equipment safely such as cords and plugs and understand why they should not overload circuits. Participants should also learn the importance of inspecting equipment for defects and proper storage and maintenance. 

As well as basic maintenance, homeowners can benefit from learning how to use ground fault circuit interrupters. This will help them understand the dangers of using faulty equipment, including electric shocks, fires, and equipment failures. In particular, it is best to have a Denver electrician offer practical exercises to help people learn how to operate the GFCI RESET button to re-establish a connection.

Emergency Procedures

Participants must recognize danger signs like smoke, unusual odors, or sparking outlets and be able to safely shut off power sources, use a fire extinguisher, and administer first aid to victims of electric shock. 

Confidence and preparedness during emergencies also help minimize the risk of injuries or property damage. 

Electrical Maintenance

An electrical contractor can teach building occupants how to identify and fix issues that lead to electrical failures or accidents. These may include loose connections, corroded wires, and worn insulation. 

Individuals may undergo training to help them understand why preventive maintenance, such as routine checks, testing procedures, and timely repairs, is paramount. They also learn why qualified professionals conduct specialized maintenance tasks, such as equipment calibration, electrical system upgrades, and compliance with regulatory standards. Prioritizing electrical maintenance during safety training helps building occupants manage risks that may arise due to faulty electrical systems. 

Creating a Safety Culture

Creating a culture of safety among building occupants gives them a sense of responsibility to prioritize safety in all their activities. Participants can learn why they should communicate and collaborate in promoting a safe working or living environment. They can also learn to report safety hazards promptly and step in when they discover unsafe practices. 

Safety culture training also helps one to take on a leadership role when setting the tone for safety within a building. The training promotes an open dialogue and support between building occupants where they address their issues without fear of reprisal.

Benefits of Electrical Safety Training

Electrical safety training teaches individuals to identify potential electrical dangers and take measures to mitigate risks. In case you live in the Denver metro and are wondering, “Are there electrical contractors near me who train in electrical safety?” there are. Here are the myriad benefits you can get after being trained by a qualified electrician in Denver:

Risk Reduction

Through comprehensive training, participants learn about various electrical hazards and how to identify and control these risks. Practices like safe equipment usage, proper maintenance, and emergency procedures help individuals intervene before hazards escalate into dangerous situations. 

Improved Response

Building occupants can develop the ability to remain calm under pressure by practicing simulated scenarios that help them learn to make decisions faster in critical situations. Electrical safety training also promotes effective collaboration among individuals during emergencies, such as being able to coordinate groups of people to achieve the most efficient and safe way to secure an electrical incident. 

Cost Savings

Electrical safety training leads to cost savings for building owners and occupants by preventing accidents and property damage, thereby avoiding expensive repairs and replacements.

A residential electrician can help building occupants foster a culture of safety that emphasizes risk management. This would significantly reduce insurance premiums and regulatory fines, among other legal liabilities.

Electrical safety training for building occupants benefits both the building owner and occupants and is a legal obligation in some states. Proper education ensures that individuals can learn to protect themselves from any dangers of electricity, and learning safety measures at home or in public spaces helps everyone enjoy the benefits of modern technology without undue risk.

If you always reset a circuit breaker because of a circuit trip after connecting a major appliance, it’s time to reconnect the appliance to a dedicated circuit. While a standard residential electrical system is designed to handle high electrical capacities, some powerful home appliances may overload the system. In this situation, get a residential electrician to install a separate circuit for you.

How Does A Dedicated Circuit Work?

When an electrical contractor sets up a dedicated circuit, they add circuit breakers separate from the main shared circuit breakers in your electrical box. A dedicated circuit limits the amount of current running through your shared circuit, which helps avoid unsafe overheating, electrical overloads, and constant circuit breaker trips. With these electrical issues safely under control, your house will have a significantly reduced risk of electrical fire.

You can always contact a licensed electrician for help determining which home appliances need a dedicated circuit. This article, however, can still help you determine which appliances you may need to move to a dedicated circuit for a safer home.

Kitchen Appliances

On average, a kitchen uses the bulk of a home’s electricity. For this reason, the National Electrical Code requires that multiple circuits serve kitchens. The following are kitchen appliances that may require a dedicated circuit:

• Refrigerator.
• Electric Oven.
• Electrical Stove or Range.
• Dishwasher.
• Garbage disposal.
• Microwave oven.
• Deep fryer or air fryer.
• Countertop convection oven.
• Standalone freezer.
• Chest freezer.

Remember that different models use different wattages. However, not all appliances on the list need dedicated circuits. Therefore, in some cases, you can forego the need for a dedicated circuit by opting for a less energy-intensive model.

For older homes, we recommend you check your kitchen wiring system, as they tend to have systems that are not updated to handle modern appliances. Learn more about kitchen wiring from professional electricians in Denver, CO.

Laundry Room Appliances

The laundry room houses two of the most energy-intensive appliances in your home: your washing machine and dryer. Therefore, it is highly recommended that a dedicated circuit be installed for these appliances since they draw a lot of power. When in use, washing machines and dryers tend to stay on for a long time to complete their work.

These days, it’s common to have three different circuits supplying power to your laundry room. The three circuits perform the following purposes:

• The 20-amp circuit supplies 120 volts to the washing machine.
• 30-amp circuit for the electric dryer.
• A standard 15-amp circuit for lighting.

If you’re unsure if your laundry room has dedicated circuits, contact your nearest Denver electrician for an assessment.

Living Room And Bedroom Appliances

The living room circuit will depend on how electronic-laden you want the room to be and the wattage requirements of the devices you want to install. Most common living room appliances, such as flat-screen TVs, subwoofers, desktop computers, lamps, and fans, are low-demand electronics that can operate well with standard circuits. However, it is always a good idea to protect expensive living room appliances like TVs with surge-protected outlets.

Generally, you should consider living room and bedroom dedicated circuits if you connect your electrical system to any of the following appliances:

• Electric fireplace.
• Window air conditioners.
• Heaters (Infrared, fans, and space heaters).

Since these appliances are usually heavy-duty, they may require 30-to-50-amp dedicated circuits to operate safely.

Garage, Basement, Utility Room, And Outdoors Appliances

Whether you’re a DIY and craft enthusiast or just a regular homeowner with extra energy-intensive appliances, you may need dedicated circuits to safeguard your property’s electrical system.

The following appliances may need a dedicated circuit installed.

• Water heater pump.
• Electric baseboard heating system.
• Sump pump.
• Large air compressor.
• Heating and air conditioning units.
• Hot tub or jacuzzis.
• Spa.
• Pools.
• Power saw.
• Heavy drill equipment.

Most of these appliances require 30- to 50-amp circuits, while others that are not significantly energy intensive will need 15- to 50-amp circuits. Find an electrical contractor near you to help you determine which of your home appliances require dedicated circuits.

Choose The Right Size Of Dedicated Circuit For Your Appliances

Once you know which appliances need dedicated circuits, you’ll need to choose the right-sized circuits for them. A small circuit can cause repeated breaker trips, which will eventually wear out the circuit and lead to overheating and electrical fires. A licensed electrician can analyze your appliances and suggest the right-sized circuits for your needs. 

They can also help you meet electric codes and requirements as a property owner. The National Electrical Code (NEC) and local governments have several electric wiring requirements to ensure the safety of homes and commercial buildings. Following these codes and laws is helpful when setting up new appliances at home.

Contact a trusted Denver Arvada electrician today with any questions about dedicated circuits and appliances.

6 Importance Of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure In Buildings

With the growing adoption of electric vehicles, incorporating EV charging units in buildings is gradually becoming a necessity. However, the pace at which the charging units are being implemented is slower than the growth of EV ownership.

This imbalance has led to long wait lines at charging stations and limited access to charging options. So, an efficient charging infrastructure is essential considering the growing transition to electric vehicles.

Promotes EV Adoption

More people find EVs to be a viable option, especially if access to electric vehicle charging stations is assured. The convenient charging options make potential EV owners more inclined to switch to electric vehicles. This is because all their concerns, from range anxiety to charging availability, are addressed.

Improved Energy Efficiency

Buildings equipped with EV charging stations can use solar panels or wind turbines as electricity generators to charge the EVs. Incorporating solar systems reduces carbon emissions and helps lower electricity costs.

Contributes To Grid Integration And Management

Integrating intelligent energy management systems makes optimizing EV charging cycles easier. This results in lower electricity bills and reduced energy wastage, as charging will be scheduled for off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower. Additionally, using smart technology, charging will be prioritized based on renewable energy availability, which makes it easier to balance the loads on the electrical grid, avoiding peak demand periods and reducing strain on the grid.

Addresses Range Anxiety

EV owners often worry about their battery’s charge completing a specific journey and the probability of charging stations. When drivers know they can access the charging locations in any building, they needn’t worry about running off battery power. This assurance alleviates the anxiety of EV ownership and makes it more practical and appealing.

Improves Property Value

Buildings with EV charging infrastructure are more appealing and attractive to tenants and buyers who own electric vehicles as the convenience of charging your car at home after work is a great option for anyone thinking of buying an EV. Additionally, not all buildings in the US, for instance, offer the charging service. Offering this infrastructure allows landlords to charge slightly higher rents and parking fees with charging capabilities.

6 Steps To Making A Building EV Ready

Here are the key steps to guide you when implementing the EV charging infrastructure in buildings.

Find Out If There Is Interest Within The Community

Find out the building’s owners’ and residents’ opinions on electric vehicles and installation of its charging infrastructure. Remember, the goal is to understand whether there is appropriate demand to guide your decisions on installing the charging infrastructure in the building.

Assess the Energy Demand

Analyze and understand the building’s energy consumption patterns to understand the probable impact of EV charging on the current load or, for a more professional perspective, engage with an Arvada electrician in Denver, CO, for a proper energy assessment. This will help you determine the required building upgrades and the number of charging stations sufficient to meet the demand.

Develop A Detailed Plan For The EV Infrastructure Design

With the help of a licensed electrician in Arvada, create a detailed plan for the general charging infrastructure with specific locations for the charging points. Your EV-ready solution should consider the proximity of parking to power sources in order to make it easier for all users.

Install And Integrate With Energy Management System

A professional electrical contractor will help you prepare the building’s charging system’s backbone. Energy management systems will also be integrated into the charging infrastructure. This would be helpful for proper load balancing, optimized charging, and real-time energy consumption monitoring.

What Charging Level Should You Choose?

There are EV charging levels from Level 1 to 3. Your choice depends on charging speed, installation requirements, and overall cost. Level 1 EV charging delivers a range of 2 to 5 miles per hour from a 120-volt outlet and is the best for overnight charging.

Level 2 has faster charging speeds and delivers a range of between 10 and 30 miles per hour from a 240-volt outlet. Compared to charging levels 1 and 2, portable DC fast charging (level 3) is the best and fastest, recharging your battery at 3 to 20 miles per minute.

Level 3 chargers use a high voltage output of 400-900 volts, which is why they are not installed at home. Very few residents have the high voltage necessary for level 3 charging.

In conclusion, incorporating EV charging infrastructure in buildings contributes to grid integration and management while enhancing property value. If you need a reliable electrician to consult on installing EV charging infrastructure, contact Arvada electricians for assured help.

Optimizing Building Operations: The Role Of Efficient Load Management

Building management requires efficiency to run well. A qualified Arvada electrician is best able to ensure effective electrical load management in commercial complexes and residential developments. Efficient load management reduces electricity costs and promotes sustainability. Read on to understand the importance of efficient load management and explore strategies to help reduce electricity costs.

What Is Load Management?

Electrical load management is balancing electrical demand with supply to use resources effectively. Building loads vary based on the percentage of the building occupied and the level of electrical equipment usage. Inefficient load management can lead to higher energy consumption, utility bills, and potential strain on the electrical grid.

The Importance Of Efficient Load Management

The electricity demand continues to escalate globally, and building owners should manage electrical loads. Efficient load management helps to enhance energy efficiency, among other benefits, within residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Here are some reasons why stakeholders should implement strategies for load management:

Cost Savings

Electricity is one of the largest operational expenses for buildings, making load management optimization a good strategy for significant savings. Efficient load management reduces energy waste, leading to lower utility bills and can help building owners and tenants have enough resources for investments in sustainability initiatives and other infrastructure upgrades. An example of load management is how building operators can optimize electrical loads to reduce peak demand charges and avoid penalties that come with exceeding contracted power limits. Electricians in Denver, CO, can advise building owners and occupants on how to strategically schedule when they use their equipment and invest in energy-efficient technologies.   

Enhanced Reliability

Efficient load management helps prevent the overloading of electrical circuits and equipment, reducing the risk of equipment failures and downtime. Reliability is crucial for sensitive areas such as data centers, hospitals, and manufacturing facilities, where power interruptions may have severe consequences. 

The balance that comes with efficient load management helps systems operate safely within their limits and reduces the likelihood of unexpected shutdowns. Buildings can prolong an equipment’s lifespan by optimizing energy usage and reducing strain on electrical infrastructure. 

Sustainability

Building load management promotes sustainability because it helps reduce energy consumption, positively impacting the environment. Demand response programs, energy-efficient upgrades, and integrating renewable energy into buildings are load management strategies that reduce electricity consumption, and a licensed electrician can help building owners implement these strategies to help reduce energy waste and maximize electrical system efficiency. 

Sustainability in load management also aligns with corporate social responsibility goals within the Denver area. Buildings that embrace sustainable load management are known as environmentally responsible entities and can attract environmentally conscious tenants and stakeholders. 

Optimized Performance

A Denver electrician can help building owners balance electrical loads so their systems operate efficiently. As a result, you are assured of an improvement in the equipment’s lifespan and reduced energy waste. 

Balancing electrical loads helps prioritize critical systems so that essential operations in buildings remain unaffected during periods of high demand. Using efficient lighting, HVAC controls, and power management systems saves energy and creates a more productive environment for building occupants.

Strategies for Reduced Electricity Costs

Strategies for reduced electricity costs in efficient load management represent a fundamental aspect of sustainable building practices and economic viability. It is beneficial to business running costs to explore innovative techniques that help curb electricity usage and expenses. 

Demand Response Programs

Denver’s demand response programs help reduce electricity costs by incentivizing participants to adjust their energy usage to the changing grid conditions. Participants can shift non-essential electricity consumption to off-peak hours or reduce their electricity demand when energy prices are high. 

These programs help avoid the need for costly infrastructure upgrades. Building operators can seek the services of a qualified electrical contractor to help them understand how these programs optimize energy usage. Using energy management systems and automation makes buildings part of demand response programs while maintaining operational flexibility.

Energy Management Systems (EMS)

Energy Management Systems (EMS) help qualified residential electricians identify inefficient electrical systems and optimize energy usage. Electricians can perform energy diagnostics to identify inefficiencies in building systems and help operators implement energy-saving measures. 

These measures may include using equipment only when needed and implementing load shedding during peak hours. EMS also enables maintenance by detecting equipment faults and performance degradation in real time, reducing the risk of costly repairs and downtime. 

Efficient Lighting And HVAC Systems

Efficient lighting conserves energy by adjusting light systems based on room occupancy. HVAC systems with efficient air conditioners and heat pumps also reduce energy usage. Programmable thermostats and zoning controls enable precise temperature control.

Optimizing Energy Use With Load Management In Denver Metro

Efficient load management is an aspect of building sustainability that helps reduce energy costs. Building operators can save more and minimize environmental impact by adopting proactive strategies and leveraging technology.

From demand response programs to energy-efficient upgrades, load optimization contributes to a more cost-effective and sustainably built environment. Embrace the power of efficient load management in Denver and pave the way towards a more sustainable future.