A recent U.S. Energy Information Administration survey showed that about 25% of Denver residents have fully converted to all electrical appliances. The survey suggested using electricity instead of gas was cheaper and safer for the environment. The health benefits that come with the upgrade also contributed significantly to the shift.

Therefore, however expensive it is initially, you should consider the transition, as it will be worth it in the long run when it saves you thousands of dollars from energy costs. 

Here are the appliances you can convert to electric at home

Oven and Hob

When starting your transition, the oven and hob should be among the first appliances you begin with- they are used the most in the house. With recent trends in electronics, there are fantastic options to replace your gas appliances with. For the gas hob, you can alternate to an electric nob, which is electromagnetic. 

It contains mechanisms to protect your hands from burning, making it safer for you to use than the gas hob.

Likewise, the electronic convection oven is more convenient, faster, and easier to use than the gas oven.

Gas Fireplace and Furnace

Gas fireplaces can be risky for your health. Therefore, if you use gas appliances, you are intentionally causing it yourself, especially if you spend most of your time at home. 

A study showed each time you light your fireplace; you open yourself to risks of carbon monoxide poisoning- the chances of CO can be life-threatening. 

Electric fireplaces are cheaper, safer, and don’t need a flue tagging along.

To shift, you need help from an electrical contractor from ElectriCall, who will disconnect your gas connections to avoid damage to your house. You could search online for contractors near me or ask for a residential electrician around the Denver metro to help.

Gas Grills

Most people enjoy well-cooked barbecues with friends in the backyard during summer. If you like barbecues, consider moving to electric grills. They generate heat much better and evenly as compared to gas grills. Your meals end up perfectly and evenly cooked in minimal time, ensuring you enjoy your barbecue.

However, to shift to an electric grill, you will need help from a licensed electrician- Denver has several electricians you can check out.

Usually, the work should take a couple of hours. However, the installation could take several hours to a few days depending on your current wiring.

Gas Heating Systems

Gas boilers can be risky to use. When they break down, they emit carbon monoxide, which harms your health and can cause severe and long-term implications.

 Comparatively, Electric heating systems are cheaper and simple to install with minimal maintenance. In addition, they last longer and operate smoothly, unlike gas heaters,

When you begin to transition, for the best results, it is better to build a new heating system, including a boiler; However, you can still replace the electric boiler on its own instead of the whole system. Before you decide, you’ll need an electrical contractor to advise you on the best option to choose.

Gas Dryer

After gas heating systems, gas dryers are the riskiest appliances to use. It is because they release high levels of carbon monoxide, harmful to your lungs and brain, which is why you’ll always see their vents installed outdoors.

With that in mind, you should convert to an electric, ventless dryer, making your work easier and faster. They are also cheaper to install and require minimal maintenance.

The non-vented dryers have a higher price upfront but are worth it eventually. You can tell how gentle they are on your clothes ensuring they are well-preserved.

You must contact an experienced Denver electrician who will modify your system to make this transition. In addition, they will need to change the heating tube and gas burner for the transition to be complete. 

It may not be the cheapest transition, but it’s worth the transformation.

How to Take Advantage of IRA Act Tax Credits?

In an attempt to advocate for clean energy, the Inflation Reduction Act has been providing business owners and households incentives and tax credits. These rebates and incentives are aimed at reducing the overdependence on fossil fuels and instead adopting new technologies that reduce emissions. For example, for the past few years, they have financed up to 30% of households to install solar-powered systems.

The government intends to see this program helping low and middle-income homeowners to switch to energy-efficient upgrades. So, the incentives will cover the full labor costs for professional installation and the appliance costs to help you increase your savings while still being beneficial for the environment. 

Therefore, you should take advantage of the new rule and talk to your financial advisor, who will advise more on its effects on your tax rates. However, these incentives from the government are income-dependent, so wealthy folks will not qualify for the same.

Conclusion

It is necessary to eradicate the global use of harmful gasses. You can be part of the initiative by converting to an electrical household using the IRA Act tax credit. 

The health benefits, especially ease of use of electrical appliances, are one you cannot debate about.

However, before you begin the transition, research the best appliances and how to take advantage of IRA incentives. Talk to your CPA or accountant. Additionally, you can talk to a licensed electrician in the Denver area who will walk the journey with you.

Are you concerned about uneven heat distribution, fumes, or difficulty controlling the temperature when cooking with gas stoves? Then, it may be a sign for you to consider switching to induction cooktops.

In addition, with the world becoming more conscious about the impact of human activities on the environment, it is crucial to reduce our carbon footprint. One such step is to change to energy-efficient appliances at home.

But why should residents of the Denver metro area make the switch? The geolocation of Denver is known for its pristine environment and fresh mountain air, but it is also prone to air pollution due to its high altitude and weather patterns. By switching to electric stoves, Denver residents can contribute to reducing their carbon footprint and improving the air quality in their city.

Induction cooking is an electric method that uses magnetic induction to directly heat your cookware, resulting in a more efficient, precise, and safe cooking experience. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, induction cooking offers numerous advantages that will make you wonder why you didn’t switch sooner.  

The Science Behind Induction Cooking

There are several myths about electrical cooktops, but what is induction cooking all about, is it safe, and how does induction cooking work?

This electrical cooking alternative is based on the principle of electromagnetic induction. This means when a magnetic field surrounding a conductor changes; it induces an electrical current in the conductor. In the case of induction cooking, the conductor is a ferromagnetic material such as cast iron or steel.

So, while your conventional gas stove uses an open flame to heat the cookware, electric induction cooking uses magnetic induction. As you can imagine, this draws out a set of differences between gas stoves and electric stoves.

An induction cooktop features a coil of copper wire under a ceramic plate. So, with an electric current flowing through the coil, a magnetic field is created, which induces an electric current in the magnetic cookware on the cooktop. This electric current heats the cookware, which heats the food.

Initially, gas stoves were the go-to choice for cooking, but in recent years, electric stoves have become increasingly popular due to technological advances and environmental advantages over gas stoves, and now, with the introduction of induction cooking technology, there is a new option for consumers looking to upgrade their cooking methods.

You don’t need to worry about how to do this. You can easily hire a local Colorado electrician to convert a gas stove to an electric model quickly and safely.

Why You Should Consider Switching from Gas to Electric Stoves

Among the many questions we will answer are “What are the disadvantages of induction cooking” and “Is induction cooking energy efficient?”

You should be aware that there is a difference between an electric cooktop and an induction cooktop. The two cooktops (induction and electric) use electric energy, but an induction cooktop has been found to be about 5 to 10% more efficient than an electric cooktop.

The main difference is while gas stoves use a burner to heat the cookware, an electric cooktop uses a coil of wire that becomes red hot when electricity passes through. At the same time, an induction cooktop uses magnetic induction.

Here are some of the reasons why, with the help of an electrical contractor, you should consider switching from gas to electric stoves:

Faster Cooking Times

Induction cooktops will cook your food much faster than a gas stove. This is beneficial if you have tight schedules and must prepare meals quickly.

Energy Efficiency

When you opt for induction cooking, you’ll save money on your energy bills. This is because induction cooktops have the heat generated in the cookware, so there is no wasted energy.

Safety

Induction cooktops are much safer than gas stoves because the cooktop surface never gets hot and there are no open flames, thus reducing the risk of fires and burns. On the other hand, electric cooktops get too hot and can be dangerous if children or pets are nearby.

Efficient Temperature Control

Induction cooktops offer more precise temperature control than electric cooktops because you can easily adjust the heat quicker and more precisely. However, electric cooktops typically take longer to adjust to temperature changes, making it more challenging to maintain a consistent temperature while cooking.

Disadvantages of Induction Cooking with Their Solutions

As much as induction cooking has many benefits, here are some potential disadvantages to consider with their solutions.

Cost

Induction cooktops are more expensive than traditional gas and electric models. But you can use the government’s Inflation Reduction ACT to help minimize the installation cost. Note, however, that there is a limit on what households can qualify for these government incentives. If you don’t qualify for the same, you can buy a portable induction burner.

Learning Period

Induction cooking may need some little learning on how to use the cooktop to achieve your desired results. You may need to change your cooking techniques, take some time to read the manual and watch instructional videos on how to use induction cooktops. Advisably, start with simple recipes before moving to complicated dishes.

Noise

The induction cooktops can sometimes be slightly noisy during their operation, which can irritate some people. The best solution is to read reviews and search for models with noise-reducing features.

Cookware Compatibility

You’ll need magnetic cookware such as cast iron and stainless steel to operate the induction cooktops. Unfortunately, this means glass, copper, and aluminum cookware won’t work here. Your best solution here is to check your existing cookware before switching. If they aren’t, you can purchase new, affordable options from the market.

Switching to Induction Cooking: Practical Considerations

Are you ready to switch from gas to electric stoves? Different preparations go into the installation to ensure the newly installed electric cookpot will be efficient. Specifically, you need a professional helping hand for an effective installation.

So, you can search for electrical contractors near me or, if you are within Colorado, you can hire a professional Denver electrician from ElectriCall LLC.

With the help of a residential electrician, here is how you can prepare your home for installing an electric stove.

Check your electrical system

Electric and induction cooktops use about 20 to 50 amps. Therefore, they need a dedicated circuit to ensure they can handle the load, so your licensed electrician will check that your electric box is up to code and can support the stove.

Confirm if you need new outlets or circuitry

If your electrical system doesn’t have the necessary outlet or circuitry for an electric stove, you’ll need to have these installed before you can use your new appliance. But, again, consulting with an ElectriCALL LLC electrician can help you determine what needs to be done.

Check for inflation Reduction Act Rebates

Some states and utility companies offer incentives for residents who switch from gas to electric appliances. In Colorado, for example, the Gas Demand-Side Management program offers rebates for eligible customers who switch to electric appliances. Check with your utility company or a government agency for any available incentives.

Remove the old gas stove

Before the electric stove can be installed, the old gas stove must be removed. It is simple to turn off the gas supply and disconnect the gas line before attempting to remove the stove, however, you should have a certified gas plumber do the uninstallation because dealing with gas is risky. You should then look to have the stove taken to a recycling center.

Prepare your kitchen space

Electric stoves come in various sizes, so you need to measure the space where you will install the stove to ensure that the new stove will fit properly. Also, make sure that there is enough clearance around the stove for ventilation and safety purposes.

Choose the right cookware

Induction cooktops require specific types of cookware, such as those made from magnetic materials like cast iron or stainless steel. Ensure that you have the right cookware before shifting to electric induction cooking. It may be necessary to shop for new cookware if you don’t have any. Many manufacturers now offer induction-compatible cookware designed specifically for induction cooktops.

How the Inflation Reduction Act Helps You Switch to Electric Stoves

As energy bills are increasingly on the rise, households must look for ways to reduce their energy bills and save money. Of course, one energy-saving option is switching from a gas stove to an electric stove, such as an induction cookpot.

In fact, with policies such as tax credits and the Inflation Reduction Act, the government encourages most houses to make the switch by offering them incentives for energy-efficient appliances.  With these incentives, you can change from a gas stove to any electric cooktop, whether an induction unit or any other option. These also include any necessary panel upgrades or wiring to facilitate the electric gas stove.

By promoting energy efficiency, policies like the Inflation Reduction Act can help reduce overall energy consumption and lower household energy bills. This can be particularly beneficial for households that use gas stoves, which are often less energy-efficient and more expensive to operate than electric stoves. However, as these government incentives are income dependent, if you are in the wealthy folks’ category, you won’t qualify.

Conclusion

Ultimately, deciding to switch to induction cooking will depend on personal preferences, cooking needs, and budget, although you can take advantage of government incentives over the same to help minimize the installation costs. It is worth noting that any disadvantages of the induction cooktop can be overcome with the right cookware, a little practice, and proper installation and use.

Electrical Updates: Big Changes in the National Electrical Code 2023

As we approach 2023, electrical contractors and property owners continue to navigate the laws to maintain a safe property. As we continue to keep our properties at their best, it is vital to learn and implement the significant amendments to NEC.

Here are some big changes to the 2023 National Electrical Code. This list includes articles that will affect Arvada, CO homeowners, and local electricians.

New NEC Articles

There are multiple new articles proposed to improve the existing National Electrical Code. The additions aim to focus on electrical requirements, especially voltage requirements. Here are some changes to know:

• NEC 231

This new code addresses the concerns surrounding alternative energy systems. It covers the requirements for interconnecting with electric utilities.

• NEC 245

This additional article tackles the requirements of overcurrent protection. Under 245, systems that are over 1000 volts AC and 1500 volts DC must have overcurrent protection. The codes 240 and 490 are tied with this article.

• NEC 312.8

The need for additional bending space for 4 AWG and larger conductors is what 312.8 is all about.

• NEC 312.10

This section highlights the new requirements for screws or fasteners. In this code, the screws to be used for electrical boxes should pass the criteria. That is, to increase safety measures and to avoid damaging the conductors.

• NEC 315

This new article covers the requirements for medium voltage conductors. It also sets the requirements for cables, cable terminations, and joints.

• NEC 411.3

There is an added section to this code, putting emphasis on voltage limitations.

Modifications on the Requirements for Receptacles

These six National Electrical Code articles talk about receptacle rating and type. It covers the general requirements for installation and requirements for wet locations.

• NEC 110.28

This section has been changed to include informational notes on enclosure types. Some types that are included are panelboards, power outlets, switchboards, and circuit breakers.

• NEC 210.8(A)

This article pertains to the GFCI protection requirement for 15- to 20-ampere receptacles. The GFCI requirement is especially vital for outlets located 6 feet from a kitchen sink.

• NEC 210.12

Aside from GFCI protection, NEC also requires AFCI protection in several locations. AFCI is installed to complement the GFCI receptacles against electrical shock.

• NEC 406.3(C) and (D)

The title for 406.3(C) will be CO/ALR Receptacles. This kind can be directly connected with aluminum conductors. The (D) section is an addition. It requires 15A and 20A receptacles that are not CO/ALR to use copper-clad aluminum conductors.

• NEC 406.4

This section changes the general installation requirements for receptacles. GFCI or tamper-resistant receptacles are now required.

• NEC 406.9 (B) and (C)

This section outlines the requirements when installing outlets near wet locations. Sockets that have 15A and 20A, 125-volt, and 25-volt must have weatherproof enclosures. This article also clarified the electrical installation requirements for weight-supporting ceiling receptacles.

Guidelines for Wiring and Protection

The National Electrical Code has firm stipulations for electrical wiring. The standards will apply when installing, repairing, or performing maintenance. Some changes that aim to increase protection include:

• NEC 215.18

This is an added section. Under this code, dwellings are now required to have surge protective devices. Apartments, dormitories, hotels, and motels that use feeders must also follow this code.

• NEC 220 and 225

This tackles the changes related to load calculation. It also covers the surge and emergency disconnect requirements.

• NEC 250

The changes to this section are related to grounding and bonding requirements.

• NEC 300

This code lays out the general requirements for electrical wiring methods and materials.

Electrical Installation Requirements

Here are some codes that tackle the general rules to keep in mind when doing electrical work. Arvada electricians must follow these new standards when setting up home equipment.

• NEC 110

The title for this article has been revised, adding the term “general.” The modification best describes the entirety of the requirements for electrical installations.

• NEC 314.27(C)

Some homes were built with a ceiling fan pre-wire and have the homeowners install their own fans. This revised section is all about ensuring ceiling fan boxes can hold the fan in place.

• NEC 440.8

The revision to this code pertains to the refrigeration of air conditioning systems. Under 440.8, mini splits are prohibited to be installed or placed in a bathroom. And they should never be placed near shower space or the rim of the tub.

The changes to the National Electrical Code are complex. There are new articles, revised titles, and deleted or moved sections. And all Arvada electricians must follow the changes. That is the only way to ensure safe electrical work. 

Call a residential electrician when doing a home renovation that requires a home rewiring job or installation. The expertise of local electricians in Arvada will help complete electrical work safely.

Need an Electrician in Arvada, CO?

ElectriCall works with residential and commercial customers for many electrical works. We are a trusted Arvada electrician that can help with electrical installations. We have performed numerous successful electrical repairs and maintenance in the Arvada area.

Whether small or big electrical projects, our expert electricians can help. For professional electrical services or more electrical safety tips, call us.

Electrical Installations You Can Do without a Junction Box

Generally, electrical installations require a junction box to hold electrical wiring connections. Ceiling fans, for example, are generally required to have an electrical box. But there are instances where a traditional junction box is not needed.

In this guide, we hope to offer information you need to know about electrical boxes. We define what a junction box is, its benefits, and when it is not necessary. And we share a list of home equipment you can install without worrying about an electrical box.

Junction Box Defined

A junction box is a type of electrical box. It is a safety measure in the form of an electrical enclosure. The junction box is usually a standard square or round type. Its inside is spacious enough to hold multiple electrical wires.

A junction box has many functions:

• It is essential to secure electrical wiring. The electrical enclosure will help prevent the wires from getting loose or damaged.
• A junction box is crucial wherever wires are spliced together. Keeping the wires inside an enclosure helps maintain a reliable connection.
• Increase safety at home by avoiding accidental contact. Electrical terminals or live wires can cause injuries, so it is important to not let them be exposed.
• Surround the spot where electrical wires are connected. The enclosure is an effective way to avoid contact between wires and causing a spark.

It is a requirement under NEC to have a junction box. It is essential for home equipment that requires a dedicated enclosure. For example, electrical systems that are above 600 volts need a proper electrical box. And the installation method must follow the NEC specifications.

No Need for a Junction Box for These Home Devices

You need a junction to make electrical installations easier and safer to do. But there are electrical installations that do not need a junction box. Some electrical devices that can be installed at home without an electrical box include:

• Wall-mounted heaters. These are heating units that are used for smaller, compact spaces.
• Baseboard heaters. These are a type of zone heating that are cheaper and easier to install.  
• Bathroom vent fans. These are small exhaust systems to help get rid of odor and humidity from the bathroom. They are often wired to the existing light switch.
• Garbage disposal. These can be installed with a dedicated electrical box, or wired with a GFCI outlet.
• Recessed light. These are unobstrusive, but elegant kinds of lighting for the home. They usually have their own wiring enclosure. And this can be installed using existing wires.
• Tube-style light fixture. This type is designed as better, energy-efficient lighting. This can also be installed using existing electrical wirings.

These home fixtures and systems do not need a junction box. Primarily because they usually have their own complete housing. That means, all their wirings are contained in one secure compartment. Also, low-voltage wiring or power below 100 watts typically does not need a junction box.

Do Electrical Installations Always Require a Junction Box?

Not all electrical installations require a junction box. So you do not have to worry about keeping your home safe. You will pass electrical inspections even without dedicated electrical boxes for some devices.

With careful planning of the home’s circuitry, you can minimize the use of junction boxes. A planned home wiring will help make branching out of electrical wires from an outlet or switch easier and safer.

• Are you concerned about the number of junction boxes in your home? Wondering when a junction box may not be necessary? Here is what you should remember:
• You do not need a junction box when installing residential circuitry does not involve splicing wires together.
• Your home will remain safe even without a junction box if all electrical connections are secured. That means the wires are not loose and hard to reach, especially by kids and pets.
• No need for junction boxes for equipment that comes with its own enclosures.
• A junction box is not always necessary if the electrical wires are tucked away. That means the wires are in a conduit and behind the drywall or not exposed.

Often, junction boxes are needed when installing high-voltage home devices. Household equipment that has higher voltage requires a dedicated electrical enclosure. It is also exceptionally crucial when splicing electrical wires to reach their destination.

A rule of thumb when and an electrical safety tip: when in doubt, call the professionals. Consult with a local Arvada electrician. Hire expert electricians who are experienced in electrical installations and repairs.

Do Not Let Your Electrical Worries Stop You from Having the Best Home

Are you still looking for a “residential electrician near me?” or an expert electrician in Arvada?

If you need more clarity on what a junction box is, our Arvada electricians are here to help. ElectriCall has a team of residential electricians ready to answer your questions. We are experts in electrical repairs, electrical maintenance, installations, and more! As your local electricians, we are ready and willing to assist you in doing electrical work.

Matching Power Outlets and Plugs

There is nothing more concerning than plugging electronics into the wrong voltage. It will not only damage your devices but injuries and fires may also happen. Matching power outlets and plugs is sometimes a little confusing—here is a guide we created to help you out.

What are electrical sockets and plugs?

The sockets are responsible for drawing electric current and then supplying it through an electrical plug and into the appliance or device. They are rated in voltage and amperage which are measures of electrical flows.

Voltage and ampere measure electric current but they have different meanings. Voltage refers to the pressure pushing the electricity. Amperage is the unit measuring electric charge in motion.

Electrical outlets also have two main types: domestic and industrial. You can easily differentiate industrial plugs and outlets from the ones used in a household by their appearance. 

• Industrial outlets and plugs. Industrial plugs are much bulkier than residential plugs as they are used for heavy-power equipment and machines. They also use a 3-phase 4-wire electrical energy distribution.

The industrial plug and outlet have their own safety measures and dedicated circuit breaker. Most industrial types of plugs and outlets have a thermoplastic material to weatherproof the products. They are safe to handle even with bare hands. 

• Household plugs and outlets. As the name suggests, this type is what regular home electronics and appliances use. Common appliances that have this type of plug include air conditioners and washing machines.

There are different voltages found in residential properties. The most common US homes have 110 volts or 220 volts. 

An electrical safety tip to remember is to check for the voltage requirement before plugging appliances into an outlet and always check the nameplate first. 

The label or nameplate should have voltage requirements. It is important that the appliance’s voltage is in the correct range with the electrical outlet.

Standard Voltage and Amps for Household Appliances

Voltage and amps are two things most people care less about when at home, but to avoid overloading and accidents, know the outlet voltage installed in your house.

When doing a home rewiring job or electrical work, it is crucial to know the different outlets and plugs. The 110, 220, and 240 volts are the common outlets found in residential properties, and each of these is designed for specific appliances or electronics.

110-volt 15 and 20-amps

Many US homes have 110-volt outlets as they draw less current, posing less of a risk compared to voltages used in other countries. 

The 110-volt sockets are designed to match a three-pronged plug. Many electronic devices are made to suit 110 volts 15 amp, some examples of which include microwaves and TVs.

The 110-volt 20-amp outlets have two vertical inputs, but one is a T-shaped slot. The T-shaped slot will help prevent incompatible plugs from making electrical contact. 

Special electrical equipment is needed when using a 110-volt appliance in a 220-volt outlet. Unless the appliance is dual-voltage, plugging into the wrong outlet is dangerous as it can create irreparable damage and cause accidents.

Many household electronics and appliances that run on 110 volts to 120 volts include:

• Hair curling irons.
• Mini tabletop grinder.
• Coffee maker.
• Blender and mixers.

220 volt 15, 20, and 30 amps

It would be impossible to confuse this type with other outlets and plugs as the 220 volts 15 amp has larger plugs compared to the regular 110 volts. They have the same slots and pins as the normal 110 volts 15 and 20 amps but are larger. 

Home appliances that demand a higher level of power are usually designed for 220 volts and 15 or 20 amps. Power tools and some kitchen appliances like dryers and ovens run on 220 volts at 20 amps. Compared to the 110 volts, this type is more efficient and transmits power more cheaply. 

The 220-volt 30 amp is larger than the 15 and 20 amps and requires a dedicated circuit. This type is used for large appliances that require massive power to function.

A transformer or converter will be essential when using a 220 – 240 volt appliance at a 110-volt outlet. 

Here are some 220-volt household appliances:

• Washers and dryers.
• Refrigerators.
• Air conditioners.
• Garbage disposals.
• Kitchen ranges.
• Generators.
• Freezers.
• Food processors.
• Electric kettles.
• Water heaters.
• Vacuums.
• Jigsaw.
• Heat guns.
• Leaf blowers.
• Electric chainsaw.

How To Determine Whether the Appliance Or Electrical System is 110 Volts Or 220 Volts?

• Check the voltage details from the appliance’s nameplate. The nameplate is often placed on the bottom or one side of the device.
• Check the electrical plug. Appliances that require specific voltage use specific plugs as well. For example, a traditional 220-volt has a configuration of three flat prongs. The pins are also in a triangular pattern. 
• If you cannot find the information you need from the manuals, call customer support.

Hire a Certified Electrician Nearby for Electrical Installations, Repairs, or Maintenance

Are you planning on installing a new electrical outlet in your home? Or want to install more circuits in your breaker? If the answer is yes, contact ElectriCall today. Our expert electricians are skilled and can safely perform electrical work.

We are a company that consists of experts and licensed electricians in Arvada, here to assist in all kinds of electrical jobs.