Safety from electrical hazards is a top priority when building or renovating a home as electrical problems with complex solutions may arise later on, so a well-planned home wiring and rewiring job is extremely paramount. Also, when doing a DIY electrical repair or installation, homeowners must have the right tools and knowledge to perform the home electrical work. 

Home electrical wiring is important but comes with potential risks of electrical shocks, accidents, or fires. As a homeowner, being aware of your home’s wiring and other electrical components is vital to making informed decisions when it comes to electrical repairs, electrical installations, or scheduling maintenance. So, here are our electrical safety tips for hands-on homeowners:

Safety comes first all the time. 

When dealing with electrical wires, remember to prioritize safety by turning off the power circuit. With a voltage tester, verify circuit status and identify whether electrical outlets and switches are receiving electricity before doing any electrical work. It is extremely vital not to skip this step to avoid electrocution and other accidents. 

Know your home’s electrical wiring.

You can determine your home’s electrical wiring through the home inspection reports or by checking the labels on electrical panels or exposed wirings. Electrical wires are different from cables since they are individual conductors. That means they conduct electricity and are either insulated or bare. They are also limited to White, Black/Red, and  Bare/Green color coding. The white code signifies neutral wire, Black/Red wires are hot wires or one that carries electrical current like power outlets, and Bare/Green wires are ground wires that create the path for the current to return to the circuit breaker and shut off the electricity. Home electrical wires often have 12 – 14 gauge wire sizes.

See also: How to Improve Electrical Wiring In Your Home

Know when to seek professional Denver electrical contractors.

Not all homeowners are equipped or ready to handle electrical work, so if you feel uncomfortable repairing electrical wires or installing electrical devices, do not hesitate to call local Denver electricians. Knowing when it is time to seek professional Denver electricians can save lives and possessions and prevent irreparable damages. 

Conduct regular inspections.

If you need to inspect your home’s electrical system, shut off the power to ensure safety. Then, carefully inspect the wirings for visible signs of damage or loose connections. Look inside the circuit breaker panel for signs of burnt marks, loose connections, or damaged wires.

Inspect the AFCI receptacles, power outlets, and power strips for signs of overloading. Ensure that each outlet or extension cord can handle all the appliances and devices plugged into them. When the power is back on, test the GFCI outlets in the bathrooms and kitchens by pressing the “Test” button. For electrical issues that are complicated to address, hire a Denver local residential electrician to handle the electrical work, as professional electrical contractors can identify and prevent electrical issues from escalating.

Use only approved electrical components and wires.

When doing electrical repairs or electrical installations, it is standard practice to only use approved materials. Over time, your home’s electrical wiring, cables, and other components like switches and electrical boxes will deteriorate, so when it is time for a home electrical upgrade, always choose to use certified products. Look for the UL Certified label which means the component has met safety standards or the IEC mark which signifies the product complies with international safety standards. 

Determining whether your home’s electrical wiring is up to code can be done by looking for the marks on the electrical boxes, outlets, and switches. You can also check in the home inspection reports or home renovation documents.

Be vigilant for signs of electrical failures.

Are your lights suddenly flickering? Is your circuit breaker often tripping? Is there unusual burning smells coming from the power sockets, power strips, or light switches? All of these may indicate underlying electrical wiring problems that require immediate solutions.

Extreme weather conditions, rodents or pests chewing on wires, and incorrect wire connections are some of the reasons for a home’s electrical wiring to fail. Other reasons like previous DIY electrical work or deteriorating electrical wirings can also lead to hazards. Upgrading old electrical wires is the best solution for keeping your home safe, however, home wiring and rewiring work is complicated and requires the expertise of master electricians — hire a licensed Denver electrician to inspect your home and conduct the necessary home rewiring job.

Without experience in electrical wiring repairs, it is best to call ElectriCall. We can help make sure your household is protected from risks of power surges, fire, and other hazards. We offer Denver home electrical repair services that tackle all kinds of home wiring issues and electrical problems.

Be prepared for power surges.

Electrical wirings are conduits for power to be distributed throughout your home, and when a power surge happens due to lightning strikes or sudden restoration of power after an outage, the electrical wiring can be damaged. As a result, appliances, devices, or fixtures plugged in may be vulnerable to overheating and shorting. To protect your home, appliances, and devices, it is best to install a surge protector. These come in the form of various devices, be it a power strip, a device installed in the electrical panel, in-wall surge protection or receptacles, or a device directly attached to a home appliance. 

Take a look at 3 Reasons Why You Should Have Surge Protection

The Bottom Line

Handling electrical wiring can be complex, so hands-on homeowners must be critical about their safety and ensure preparedness in case of emergencies. If you want to be actively involved in your home’s electrical repair, installation, or maintenance, you must have the knowledge and confidence to do electrical work. 

For more information about electrical systems, or if you need professional electrical services in Denver, call us. ElectriCall can help make your home safe from hazards.

The need for eco-friendly solutions has become more crucial than ever. Electrical advancements for homes not only transform comfortability and lifestyle but create a healthier environment for future generations as well, as they prioritize sustainability and help reduce carbon footprint and resource consumption.

Solar power for residential homes

One of the biggest eco-friendly solutions for homes is the use of solar power. Solar panels are installed on the home’s rooftop where they can directly generate electricity from the sun’s rays. It is a great alternative for residential energy needs because it is clean, cost-effective, easy to use, and requires low maintenance. 

Solar panels can generate electricity for either your entire home or specific home appliances and be a significant investment at first but more cost-effective in the long run. When solar panels for your home, it is best to calculate your energy consumption to get the right size and number of solar panels you need to power up your home or specific areas of the house.

Consult with professional Arvada electricians for advice regarding installing solar panels to your property. They know the requirements and process for solar panel installation and can help with assessments too.

Smart thermostats for making Arvada  residential homes smart

Many homes today use smart thermostats which can be controlled via mobile apps. This technology has features like automatic temperature schedules and adjustments, learning capabilities that allow it to adapt to the user’s preferences, voice commands, and energy efficiency recommendations. 

Smart thermostats are better for the environment because of their energy-efficient features.  The easy-to-control and automatic features prevent unnecessary heating or cooling that creates wastage. It is more eco-friendly and cost-effective, all while ensuring the comfort of homeowners.

Household water conservation technologies

Numerous water conservation devices are helping make the environment safer for all, some of which include smart water leak sensors that can quickly detect leaks and potential plumbing issues. There are also water flow restrictors which are installed on faucets to control water flow rates and grey water recycling systems that collect water from the sink, washing machine, and showers and reuse them for toilet flushing. 

These kinds of home electrical advancements promote sustainable living and minimize water wastage. By hiring a professional Arvada local residential electrician, you can transform your home into a more sustainable and comfortable one with peace of mind knowing your home upgrades are installed correctly.

Smart and automated home lighting systems

Smart lighting systems for households are advanced technologies that allow users to have full control of their lighting wherever they are. These kinds of devices come with smart technology, sensors, and features that make usage more convenient and efficient for homeowners while contributing to sustainability on a wider scale.

Some examples of these technological advancements are smart LED bulbs which consume less energy and require fewer replacements and smart switches like dimming devices that control the light levels extending the lifespan of the bulbs. There are also smart lighting systems that have daylight harvesting features that can detect natural light, adjust accordingly, and reduce the need for excessive lighting. 

GFCI outlets, AFCI receptacles, and programmable smart plug

Standard outlets do not have the automation features or safety capabilities that advanced power sockets have. GFCI outlets and AFCI receptacles, on the other hand, are specially designed to protect homeowners against electrical shocks and other hazards. Using these types of outlets is better in terms of safety and will also lead to energy efficiency. 

Another technology to consider is programmable smart plugs, which are equipped with controllable features such as scheduling, voice control, timers, and home integration to enable users to manage their energy consumption and ultimately contribute to lowering the carbon footprints generated in households.

If you need an electrician nearby for GFCI outlet installation, call ElectriCall. We offer services like home wiring and rewiring, electrical troubleshooting, and Arvada electrical upgrades.

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Advanced safety devices for homes use features beyond the traditional detecting devices. Smart smoke detectors can be controlled with smartphones, have real-time alerts and maintenance notifications, interconnection with other smart home devices, and voice command. Most advanced smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are also hardwired into the home, minimizing worries about battery and power issues. 

Using advanced home devices like the smart smoke detector will reduce false alarms, improve safety, and ultimately benefit both the homeowners and the planet as detection of smoke, fire, or carbon monoxide leaks is faster and enables quicker response by the homeowners and rescuers.

Smart trash cans and waste systems for households

When it comes to waste management, homeowners have the option to opt for smart trash cans and waste system that is equipped with advanced features and functionality. This waste management solution leverages technology to enhance the homeowner’s comfort and the home’s efficiency as well as to promote sustainability. Smart trash cans that are integrated into homes come with features like built-in compactors for compressing waste, voice activation, and solar power connection. They also come with control features, touchless operation, and Wi-Fi connectivity which allows home integration and lets users control it from their phones. The app sends a notification when it is time to collect and empty the waste bins, making waste management more sustainable and efficient. 

Join in the Sustainable Practices and Embrace Home Electrical Advancements Better for the Planet

Homes are optimized by utilizing home electrical advancements or upgrades that are great investments and have long-term benefits. Homeowners can integrate smart, eco-friendly technologies that will completely transform their homes, and by harnessing solar power and embracing energy-efficient technologies, you can contribute to creating a positive impact on the planet.

Want to learn more about home electrical advancements that will transform your home? Or do you need an Arvada local residential electrician for electrical installations and home electrical repair service? Contact ElectriCall today. We can work together to elevate your home while considering the environment.

Switchboards or electrical panels serve as the primary protection mechanism of a household from electrical failures. Homeowners should be familiar with how they function and their practical uses to know the right steps to take in cases of emergencies such as power overloads and short circuits.

What is a key switchboard?

This electrical system is a central hub for electricity. It acts as the main power supply that distributes energy to various electrical outlets, home appliances, devices, and smart integrations. The switchboard consists of circuit breakers that are designed to detect electrical failures and power overloads and automatically shut off to prevent electrocution and fire.

A typical switchboard for homes only has a main switch that controls the electricity for the entire home’s electrical system. Today, electrical panels are more sophisticated and organized with multiple switches to control the distribution of electricity to the different areas or rooms of the house. 

Modern switchboards are made from metal or plastic. They have labels to easily identify which flow of electricity they control. The main switch, also known as the main disconnect or main isolator, has the label “main switch”  and is designed to cut off electrical supply to the entire household.

How does the key switchboard work for homes?

• Source of power supply: The switchboard is located in the area of the home where the power lines from the utility companies are routed, typically near the main door, back door, basements, utility rooms, or garages. The switchboard is the electrical device that distributes power to the entire house from the utility companies. Because the switchboard is the receiver of electrical supply distributed throughout the house, it must be installed in convenient and accessible locations. 
• Control power: The switchboard consists of multiple switches known as circuit breakers. These circuit breakers control the power supply to a specific area or room of the house. They can turn off the electrical flow to a specific power outlet while leaving the rest of the electric flow undisturbed. The switchboard also helps in balancing loads or distribution of electricity to home appliances and devices to avoid overpowering them.
• Allocate specific circuit breakers: One of the primary reasons for having a switchboard is to simplify the identification and isolation of faulty circuits when necessary. Over time, the home’s electrical wiring will wear and tear and require electrical repair or replacement. The circuit breakers help to quickly identify the source of the issue and resolve it without causing problems to other electrical systems.
• Compatibility with smart home integrations or other electrical advancements: The switchboards are designed for the protection of the home and its residents. So, they are also designed to accommodate home integrations such as GFCI outlet installation and other smart devices. As electrical requirements change or new devices are added to your home, the electrical panel offers flexibility to accommodate the electrical upgrades.

What components can be found inside a home electrical panel or switchboard?

Switchboards, or electrical panels, is an enclosure that holds three main components. These are the circuit breakers, safety switches, and fuses. The fuses are common to traditional or older electrical panels and act to prevent excessive current from damaging the electrical wires and appliances. A blown fuse should be replaced immediately to restore the power to your home.

Today, advanced technologies have transitioned electrical panels from using fuses to employing circuit breakers and safety switches. The circuit breaker is the device responsible for automatically shutting off the power supply in case there is an overload or short circuit due to faulty electrical wiring. Safety switches, however, are components that can be found in more modern electrical panels and function to detect imbalances in the electrical flow and automatically turn off to protect against electric shock. 

Are you renovating a home that has outdated electrical systems? ElectriCall may be able to help you upgrade the home. ElectriCall is a licensed Arvada electrical company with expert local residential electricians ready to upgrade your switchboard with modern components.

Why is it important for homeowners to understand key switchboards and their functions?

• Increase electrical safety: Being the primary safety device for your home, it is important to know how switchboards work to quickly respond to electrical issues. The switchboard is also extremely vital during a power outage. When electricity suddenly cuts off due to natural disasters and extreme weather, you can turn off the circuit breakers to prevent a power surge when the supply is restored. The switchboard also helps minimize the risk of fire due to overloading or turning on appliances simultaneously.
• Troubleshoot simple electrical issues when needed: Knowing the functionality of switchboards allows homeowners to conduct DIY electrical repairs that do not need the assistance of a professional Arvada electrician. Homeowners will know how to identify electrical problems, perform simple tests, isolate the issues, or call for expert home electrical repair services.
• Be prepared for emergencies: Emergencies also occur from accidents or natural disasters, and when these kinds of emergencies occur, you might have to quickly turn off the power supply to your entire home. Being familiar with the electrical panel and switches will allow you to disconnect the electricity safely when it is needed.
• Understand the do’s and don’ts when doing home improvements: Knowing the proper routing for electrical wires is crucial when renovating your home or building an addition to it. Home wiring and rewiring can be complex, so knowing the basics will help you determine whether the electrical contractors you hired know what they are doing.
• Manage your energy consumption. Another reason for homeowners to understand their home electrical panels is so that they can be more mindful of their resource consumption. By knowing how the switchboard works, you can take steps to improve your home’s energy efficiency by installing smart home integrations, safety devices, solar energy, and more!

How can Arvada homeowners perform basic maintenance to their home switchboard or electrical panel?

Homeowners can visually inspect the switchboard for signs of loose wires, discolorations, burnt marks, or damage to components, and can clean the area and remove debris, dirt, or other flammable materials near the electrical panel. Tightening loose connections is another basic maintenance that homeowners can do to prevent connections from overheating or arcing. 

Electrical maintenance such as maintaining switchboards also requires an understanding of basic tools. Keep handy tools like screwdrivers, a multimeter for measuring voltage and current, electrical tape, and wire strippers. Your safety is always a top priority, so make sure to understand the switchboard, its functions, and the risks of DIY electrical work. 

The Bottom Line

Overall, having a basic understanding of your home’s key switchboard and its practical uses helps you become a more responsible homeowner. Proactively seeking knowledge about your home’s electrical components allows you to deal with electrical issues more confidently. 

However, it is also worth remembering that DIY electrical work may not always be the best solution. Electricity can be dangerous and cause accidents, loss of property, or fatalities. When it comes to regular electrical repair, electrical installation, or maintenance services, seek the assistance of a professional electrician nearby.

For complex electrical troubleshooting that involves your home electrical wiring or repairing circuit breakers, contact ElectriCall. Our qualified Arvada local residential electricians can provide excellent home electrical repair services that will give homeowners comfort and peace of mind.

As a homeowner, looking for answers about every bit of electrical work you need to do can be daunting. At ElectriCall, we staff seasoned local residential electricians in Colorado, and have been providing home electrical repair services in Denver for many years. So, it is our pleasure to help Denver, CO homeowners get answers to the most searched and frequently asked questions about electrical work. 

We listed what electrical frequently asked questions every Denver, CO homeowner asks the most. Whether you are seeking to understand electrical repairs, electrical installations, electrical safety, or electrical troubleshooting and maintenance, we’ve got you covered.

Why is there a buzzing noise coming from my electrical panel?

Noises coming from the electrical panel is a warning sign for several electrical issues. Diagnosing the electrical panel is important to understand the problem but there are only a couple of reasons why it is making a humming or buzzing sound. Overloaded circuits, loose electrical connections, electrical arcing, faulty circuit breakers, and old electrical components are the most common reasons for noises coming from the electrical panel. 

Some of the issues are easy to detect and fix such as loose electrical connections that can be tightened with appropriate tools. Other electrical issues like overloading circuits and faulty circuit breakers are more difficult to fix and require experience in electrical work.

What is causing my electrical outlet to malfunction and not work?

Electrical outlets will suddenly stop working for several reasons. Plugging too many devices is one reason for the outlet to stop working, especially when it is a GFCI outlet, as this type of outlet protects against electric shocks and accidents when there is a power overload or imbalance in current flow. To fix a GFCI that has tripped, simply press the “reset” button found on the outlet. Next, press the “test” button. This will check whether the outlet is receiving power again. 

Is the electrical outlet hot or overheating? Worn-out and damaged power sockets are another reason for electrical sockets to stop working. The overheating is an indication of electrical failure that needs to be dealt with right away.

How to safely turn off electricity during an emergency?

In cases of emergencies, you must know the correct steps for turning off electricity to avoid electrical hazards and risks of fire. First, what are the emergencies that require electricity to be turned off? Some scenarios include electrical fires, electrical accidents where someone has been electrocuted, home appliances or equipment malfunctioning, gas leaks, and power surge. 

When you experience one of these emergencies, acting quickly is important. Call the emergency services immediately. Next, locate the main electrical box. Inside the panel, there should be rows of circuit breakers that control power to the different areas or rooms of the house. Use caution before turning the switches off. After an incident, it is best to call for a reliable Denver electrical contractor to inspect and conduct repairs.

What is a ground fault and how to fix it?

A ground fault is an electrical hazard that often occurs due to malfunctioning electrical devices, power tools, and appliances. It can also happen because of compromised wiring or when electrical devices are improperly installed. When fixing a ground fault, safety comes first. Turn off the power and use the correct electrical equipment for inspecting, testing, and repairing electrical issues.

How to fix a faulty circuit?

Homeowners can troubleshoot their faulty circuit breakers, but the task comes with risks. Be sure to use caution when trying to fix a faulty circuit. Turn off the electricity to ensure your safety, wear insulated gloves, and use appropriate electrical tools. It is also extremely important to utilize tools like a digital multimeter for testing the voltage. Remember not to test or check while there is an active electrical supply.

If you suspect components or the circuit breaker needs replacement, do not attempt to do it on your own. Consult a professional Denver electrician to do the job. Anything related to your home’s electrical systems has potential risks. Seeking assistance from professional Denver local residential electricians is crucial to ensuring that maintenance and repairs are properly conducted.

Is installing AFC receptacles important and what is its purpose for my home?

Just like GFCI outlets that protect homeowners from electrical shocks, the AFCI is another outlet designed to detect and minimize risks due to arc faults.  When electricity flows through an unintended path or loose connection, it creates arc faults that may cause electrocution or risks of fire. Heat is also released which could ignite nearby flammable materials.

The AFCI is an electrical upgrade that is usually installed in bedrooms, living rooms, or areas of the house where electrical devices are often plugged in. It should not be confused with GFCIs which are used in rooms or areas near water.

What is causing my lights to flicker?

There are several reasons why your lights are flickering. If your light fixture is brand new or you know it is not faulty, the flickering may be one of these reasons: electrical circuit overload, faulty wiring or electrical connections, voltage fluctuations, or utility issues.

It may be that there are too many appliances and electronics that are drawing power from the same circuit and causing voltage fluctuations. Loose or corroded electrical connections also cause voltage fluctuations that make the light flicker. Otherwise, the problem may be coming from the utility company’s power distribution.

How to safely handle electrical tools when doing electrical repairs?

Knowledge and experience in electrical tools is vital when doing electrical repairs or installations. When handling electrical tools, inspect them before using them. If it has visible signs of wear or damage, it is best not to use it to avoid possible electrical shock and accidents. It is also important not to improvise tools when working on electrical outlets, electrical wirings, and other work. Lastly, the most important safety measure to remember is not to let metal near live wires or conductive materials.

What is the lifespan of light bulbs?

Different types of light bulbs have various usable lifespans. LED lights, which are commonly used nowadays, often last for up to 30,000 hours. Incandescent and halogen bulbs typically have a 2000 to 4000-hour lifespan before they need to be changed, and compact fluorescent lamps have about 8000 hours of use.

What to do with a GFCI that won’t reset?

There should be a button for resetting the GFCI, however, in case it won’t reset, resolving the issue requires steps to follow. If you are unfamiliar with electrical work and best practices, it is best to call a professional Denver electrician. A seasoned electrical company can fix the loose connections, replace burnt wires, diagnose the GFCI for other problems, or replace the entire device. 

How can I tell my home has outdated electrical wiring?

Outdated or worn-out electrical wiring has serious safety risks, so detecting it right away is crucial. Some signs that tell you your home’s electrical wiring is outdated include circuit breaker tripping, flickering lights, buzzing sound from the switches, outlets or electrical panels, and burnt smell from the outlets. Getting the assistance of qualified Denver electricians may be necessary to do a home rewiring job.

What are electrical hazards in my home and how to avoid them?

Electrical hazards are present in homes but can be significantly minimized with proper electrical tools and electrical repair knowledge. Some major electrical hazards might include overloaded circuits, damaged outlets, appliances overheating, and faulty wirings. You can avoid these hazards by considering a home electrical upgrade, wiring or rewiring job, or scheduling electrical repairs and maintenance. 

Consult with Professionals for Electrical Services in Denver

Before you conduct any DIY electrical work or attempt to repair electrical wiring on your own, it is essential to be well informed. Understanding the do’s and don’ts associated with electrical jobs will help minimize the risks involved. Our goal at ElectriCall is to equip Denver homeowners with the knowledge needed to handle electrical work safely. 

Do you have other electrical questions not covered in this electrical FAQ for Denver homeowners? Call us. As a trusted local electrical company, we are here and ready to answer your inquiries. And if you want to schedule electrical maintenance or need a professional Denver electrical contractor to do repairs, installations, or home wiring and rewiring, do not hesitate to get in touch.