Month: September 2020

Surge Protector vs Power Strip: 3 Important Differences

Read our surge protectors vs power strip guide to learn the three main differences between the two and what other alternatives you have.

surge protection

Does A Whole House Surge Protector Really Work & Is It Worth It?

7 Reasons Why Your Smoke Detector is Chirping

September 25, 2020 | Cristina Dinulescu

When the battery needs changing, your smoke alarm will let you know by making a chirping noise. However, newer models might encounter errors and even after the battery has been changed, you can still hear the smoke detector chirping. Usually, this tends to happen in electrical powered smoke alarms which have a battery backup. To stop the smoke alarm chirping, you need to reset the alarm, thus manually clearing the error from the processor.

The cause for the smoke detector chirping is usually either a battery-related issue or miss-wiring, but there could be other reasons. According to the National Fire Protection Association, dead batteries cause one-quarter (25%) of the smoke alarm failures.

However, don’t confuse the chirping sound with intermittent alarms. The chirping comes once every minute, in equal intervals and a higher-pitched tone. The alarm comes in a lower-pitched tone, for several seconds.

Reason #1: Battery

A loud, continuous alarm with a persistent chirping is usually caused by the battery. There can be several reasons:

The battery pull-tab is still in the device: when AC power is provided to the smoke detector, the battery pull-tab should be removed.
The battery drawer is not closed: for the battery to make complete contact with the terminals, the drawer should be closed.
The battery is low: the smoke detector will inform you when the battery needs changing by making a chirping sound, once a minute. However, only the device that’s running on low battery will be chirping, and the interconnected alarms will remain silent.
A part of the smoke alarm terminal is obstructed: in this case, the battery and the terminals in the device might not be making contact. So, you need to ensure that the pull-tab or other obstructions are removed.
The back-up battery is dead: hard wired smoke alarms include a 9-volt backup battery which kicks in when power is turned off. And when that battery is dead, the chirping noise appears.

What’s the solution?

The solution is simple: replace the battery. Here’s how you do it:

Make sure the power to your wired smoke alarm, at the circuit box, is turned off.
Locate the battery cover panel.
Use a screwdriver to remove the panel.
Remove the old battery and put in a new one.

Reason #2: Dirty Sensor

The chirping sound may be caused by a dirty sensor. Dust can easily find its way into the smoke detector, entering the sensing room. You should also know that dust can be responsible for false alarms, causing the device to go off randomly.

What’s the solution?

Clean up your smoke alarm. Here’s how you do it:

Turn the power off at the circuit box.
Remove the face of the detector.
Clean the dust using a small brush or vacuum hose.
Eliminate dust buildup using a mild detergent.
Replace the face of the detector and check for the chirping noise.

Reason #3: Malfunction

Your smoke alarm might be malfunctioning. Usually, when this happens, the noise will appear between flashes of red LED light. After some time, detectors wear down and stop functioning properly. An NFPA report states that 17% of home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes where smoke alarms were not working.

What’s the solution?

When this happens, you need to call a specialist to take a look at your device. Usually, smoke alarms have a lifespan of 5 years, so if you know your device is older than that, you might have to replace it. If the smoke detector continues to chirp after vacuuming the sensor area, it is wise to just replace it, as they’re quite affordable in comparison to the amount of nuisance they can cause.

If it’s a new addition to your home, the specialist should be able to tell what’s wrong with it and fix it if possible. If the error cannot be fixed, you’ll have to install a new one.

Reason #4: It Needs Replacing

Smoke detectors have a lifespan of eight to ten years. When it reaches the end of its life, it may stop functioning properly. A properly working smoke detector is crucial for the safety of your home against fires.

What’s the solution?

If the smoke detector has reached the end of its life, you need to replace it. To make sure that this is the case, you need to take the alarm off and verify the manufacturing date. This should tell how old the device is.

Reason #5: Interference

In areas where wiring is not appropriate, wireless alarms are the popular choice. These devices communicate through radio frequencies. And while this is highly effective, these devices are also prone to interference.

If your smoke alarm starts making a nuisance sound, without any smoke signs being present, you may be dealing with interference from a similar system.

What’s the solution?

When installing the device, the specialist needs to ensure the risk of interference is minimal. To deal with interference after installation, you need to check the user manual and select a different DIP switch pattern.

Reason #6: Environmental Factors

Another reason for which your smoke alarm might be acting out could be the temperature fluctuations in your home. When the thermostat is set at an unusual low or high temperature, the smoke alarm may perceive this as a problem and start chirping. The same thing happens when the device senses hot air coming from either the kitchen or the bathroom.

What’s the solution?

To avoid this kind of situation, you might want to think about moving the smoke alarm away from the kitchen or bathroom door to ensure that hot air doesn’t reach the alarm vents.

Reason #7: False Alarm

Thankfully, false smoke alarms are more common than real ones. And you can recognize them by the following signs:

Cooking smoke can trigger the detector. The solution is to install the smoke detector more than 10 feet away from your cooking areas.
Impurities from outside, such as smoke from barbecues, unusually heavy pollen or even dust can trigger the smoke alarm. The solution is to move the device away from doors or windows through which such particulates could enter.
Smoke alarms can be set off by heavy steam. Avoid installing them close to kitchens and bathrooms.
Smoke detectors can become homes to dust, mold, spider webs or other insect activity. These can also trigger false alarms. Clean the device or replace it entirely if cleaning is much too complicated.

The right electrical upgrade can dramatically improve the value and appearance of any home or business. You’ll be amazed at what a difference the right electrical upgrade can make for your home or business. Make sure that when you select an electrical company to do the enhancement of your home and you have decided to take your enhancement to the level where you require an electrical upgrade that the technician at the company has a good working knowledge and the experience to properly guide you in this area.

When you decide to upgrade, our well-trained and certified electricians have all the experience and training needed to complete your electrical panel upgrade project from start to finish, with a minimum of fuss or disturbance. Please contact us right away at 310-800-2401

7 Reasons Why Your Electric Bill Is High

September 23, 2020 | Cristina Dinulescu

Homeownership is highly coveted by many Americans. But if you own a house, you know that one of the downsides is higher expenses, and the monthly electricity bill is definitely one of them. It’s true that the electricity rates go up sometimes, but even so you might have found yourself wondering “Why is my electric bill so high?”

Energy Star, a branch of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) states that a regular U.S. family spends ”more than $2,000 a year on energy bills”. In fact, according to the US Energy Information Administration, California is the state with the highest year-over-year utility increase and the retail prices for kWh in the continental U.S.

However, sometimes the increase in utility rates is not the only reason for a high electric bill. Finding out what keeps making your electricity costs go up is not all that difficult. The key is verifying your electrical usage (measured in kWh). Even though the electricity prices keep on changing, you can understand what is going on with your bill by looking at the amount of energy you use.

If you are interested in lowering your energy bill during the summer, feel free to check out these tips and tricks. If you want to know what exactly is making your bill go up, then here are the 7 most common reasons.

1. Always “on” appliances

One of the most common reasons for which your energy bill is going up is the fact that you are leaving some of your appliances plugged in when you are not using them. A few years ago, this might not have been an issue. Today, however, even when turned off, most gadgets can still draw electricity. The explanation is that technology nowadays never actually powers down. Even though you have to press the power button for your TV, DVR, computer or television to start functioning, it only transitions from a standby mode.

While your appliances or devices are waiting for a command or for a scheduled task, they are eating up energy. This also happens with pretty much anything that has a clock, from a microwave oven to an older generation VCR. They need power to show the time when turned off.

What’s the solution?

You don’t have to pay for energy you are not using. Instead of leaving these appliances plugged in when not in use, you could simply unplug them and save money. You could also connect your devices to power strips and turn the power off from the strips when you are not using them. This way, you will start saving energy.

2. Misuse of certain appliances

Most likely, you have big, energy-hungry appliances like cloth washers, dishwashers or dryers, which can easily make your energy bill go up. As a matter of fact, the average American family does about 400 loads of laundry each year, using 40 gallons of water for a full load. Unfortunately, when doing the laundry or washing the dishes, you may not be using these appliances at their full capacity, wasting both water and energy.

What’s the solution?

If you are using a dishwasher, check if it’s used at full capacity. Select the right wash cycle and try to change the settings to use no or less heat. As far as washers and dryers are concerned, set a laundry day each week and make sure you put in a full load. You can also use with less heat for drying.

3. Lights and ceiling fans

Your electric bill can be high because of lighting as well. Many people think that using ceiling lights can improve the overall brightness of a room. However, this is not exactly true. These lighting options eat up more energy than fixtures used for a specific area, such as lamps. Also, these are much more effective when it comes to increasing the level of brightness. They provide direct light, so brightness is significantly improved in the areas you want, like the couch or the table.

When it’s hot outside, turning on the ceiling fans seems like a really good idea. The problem with fans is that they affect the temperature only in the room where they are installed. So, it doesn’t make a lot of sense to leave the fan working in the hopes of lowering the temperature in the entire house.

Ceiling fans should be used when you are in the room. Plus, fans have a toggle switch which allows blades to switch direction based on season to obtain optimal efficiency. These tricks will help you lower your electric bills, as your energy usage is lowered.

What’s the solution?

Remember to turn off your lights when you are not in the room and try to switch to lighting for specific areas, like lamps. Also, use energy-efficient CFL bulbs instead of inefficient incandescent light bulbs and save money when the lights are on.

Turn off the ceiling fan when the room is empty and set the blades to run counter-clockwise during the summertime and clockwise in the winter.

4. Light Bulbs

When it comes to lighting, the type of lighting you are using is not the only problem. Bulbs as well can increase energy usage, if they are not efficient. Energy inefficient bulbs may be cheaper than other options, but you may end up with a higher energy bill.

What’s the solution?

LED light bulbs are an energy-efficient alternative. Even though at first they might seem more expensive, you will notice a change in your energy consumption. These bulbs use up to 90% less energy than regular bulbs. Plus they last forever. So, the initial investment is definitely worth it.

5. Improper Insulation

If you are overusing the heat during the winter or the air conditioning in the summer, it might be a sign of faulty insulation. Old, drafty windows are your enemy and they may be the reason why you’re using the appliances so much, which eats up a lot of energy and keeps your bill unusually high.

What’s the solution?

You could consider investing in new, properly insulated windows, as well as make sure your attic and basement have proper insulation as well.

6. Overcharging Devices

Many people charge their phones and laptops, or any other devices, in the evening and leave them plugged in overnight. A phone requires no more than 3 hours to be fully charged. So, leaving it plugged in overnight will not do any good, as its battery won’t last any longer. The only result you’ll have is a higher energy bill.

What’s the solution?

Make sure you unplug chargers and unplug AC adapters when no devices need charging. Also, familiarize yourself with the necessary charging time for each device and plug them in when they need to. Unnecessary charging will only increase energy usage, make the bill go up and affect the battery of your devices.

7. Misusing the AC

The summer heat makes it impossible not to turn on the air conditioning. But using the AC when the windows are open is just a waste of money. This is a power-hungry appliance, so keeping the windows open and the AC on is a sure way to a huge energy bill.

What’s the solution?

You should either use the AC and make sure that the windows are closed or open your windows and turn off the AC. Always make sure the windows are closed before turning on the air conditioner. You could also select the “eco” setting on your thermostat, if it has such a feature. It allows the thermostat to slightly change the temperature depending on the time of day, which smart thermostats do automatically.

5 Tips For Safe and Efficient Outdoor Outlets

September 21, 2020 | Cristina Dinulescu

If you decide to decorate your home with Christmas lights or use different electric garden tools conveniently and simply, installing an outdoor outlet is a very good idea. Otherwise, you might find yourself in the situation of having to use extension cords or come up with all sorts of unsafe solutions to light up your home or use power tools.

An outdoor outlet is very different from an indoor one. According to the 2008 National Electrical Code, all outdoor outlets should be GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets and have watertight cover for protection. The GFCI outlets automatically trip and turn off in case of short circuit or current leakage, preventing electrical fires and shocks.

Remember to check local codes before doing electrical work of any kind and make sure that you are being compliant.

1. Choose The Right Location For The Outdoor Outlet

Before installing any outdoor electrical outlet, you need to pick a wall to install it on. It’s simpler to use an indoor outlet that’s installed opposite to where the outdoor one will be. However, make sure that your indoor outlet can handle the exterior one, which should be a GFCI outlet, without the danger of overloading. To do that, you can use a voltage tester to check if your indoor outlet is functioning properly.

However, according to building codes, tapping power from outlets dedicated to large gadgets or those installed in the laundry room or kitchen is prohibited.

In case you do not find a proper indoor outlet, you may have to find a different power source, like a basement junction box or an outdoor electrical outlet and run a cable from it. If your new power source is a different outdoor outlet, you’ll have to house the connecting cables in a 1/2-inch metal conduit.

Standard power outlets are known as outdoor receptacles and these include the outlets mounted on detached garages and other outdoor structures, as well as to exterior house walls. Also, these receptacles can be installed on posts or poles in the garden and GFCI protection is required for all 15- and 20-amp, 120-volt outlets.

You need to install one outlet at the front and rear of your home, usually in each balcony, porch, patio or deck. The code for outdoor outlets is a minimum of 18″ off the ground, and sometimes these can be installed back to back. The outdoor outlet needs to be easily accessible from the inside.

All non-locking receptacles of 15-amp and 20-amp 120-volt installed in wet or damp locations need to be weather-resistant.

2. Cover The Outdoor Outlet

Outlets installed on the exterior of your home are exposed to different elements, like snow or rain, which could cause significant damage or safety hazards. That is why you need to take extra precautionary measures. If an outdoor electrical outlet gets wet, it causes a powerful electrical shock which could result in serious injuries or even death. Water is a powerful current conductor, which is why it is very important to keep it as far away from the outlet as possible.

There’s other potential dangers as well. A wet outlet can cause a short circuit, which could ignite a fire or cause power outages throughout the house, seriously damaging your appliances.

So even though they’re highly convenient, outdoor outlets require extra care. Children, pets, or even guests can be exposed to danger if the outlet poses a risk. Use outdoor covers for outlets to ensure it doesn’t get wet. All outdoor outlets, whether they are used or not, should be covered. By code, it’s required to install a bubble cover on outdoor outlets in order to weatherproof whether or not something is plugged into it. The cord should come out of the bottom and the cover should always be closed. There are special GFCI outlets for outdoor, Leviton being one of the best. It is also required that these receptacles are installed in special boxes to ensure extra protection when located in damp areas or places unprotected by rainfall.

What Should You Do If The Outlet Gets Wet

In case your outlet does get wet, here are a few steps to follow:

Turn off the GFCI outlet – even though GFCI outlets are designed to automatically switch off, errors may occur. If that’s the case, you can manually turn it off by pressing on the reset and test buttons at the same time.
Shut down the breaker box – shutting down the breaker box is the most reliable solution in case of a flood or any other situation in which several outlets have been affected. This measure is recommended even if your GFCI outlets have stopped working automatically. Call an electrician and ask for help if you don’t know what circuit breaker should be shut down.

3. Use The Right Cables & Conduits

The NM cable has a vinyl outer jacket and waterproof insulation around the individual conducting wires. However, even so, it is still not designed to be used in outdoor locations. All cables must be approved for outdoor use and there are additional rules to be followed when using conduit, such as:

The UF type cable is the most used nonmetallic cable for residential outdoor wiring. All wiring, exposed or buried, must be listed for its application.
When using UF cable, know that it can be direct-buried, meaning there is no need for conduit, having a minimum of 18 inches of earth cover. If it’s the main electrical wiring to the house, then the minimum is 36″.
All wiring buried inside RMC (rigid metal) or IMC (intermediate metal) conduit must have 18 inches of earth cover, at least. The same applies for PVC conduit.
Wiring carrying no more than 30 volts must be buried at least 6 inches deep.
Smooth granular material must surround conduit or cables, so no rocks.
All buried wiring runs which pass from underground to above ground must be protected in conduit, starting with the required cover depth (or 18 inches) to its termination point (or at least 8 feet above ground).
All electrical service wires running over the pool, spa or hot tub area have to be at least 22 1/2 feet above water or diving platform surface.
All data transmission wires have to be at least 10 feet above pool, spa or hot tub water surface.

4. Choose The Proper Cover

All outdoor electrical outlets should be installed in special electrical boxes, with specific covers, matching both their location and installation type.

Surface-mounted (or flush-mounted) boxes need to be approved for outdoor use and, in wet locations, you need to have boxes listed for wet locations. Metal boxes, both indoor and outdoor, have to be grounded. This is referred to as UL approved. There are also PVC boxes, which are plastic. The grounding would be used for the device being installed.

Outlets installed in damp areas need to have a weatherproof bubble cover, listed for damp or wet locations. For receptacles installed in wet locations, unprotected from rain, an in-use cover approved for wet areas is required, as this protects the outlet from moisture, even when a cord is plugged in.

5. Call Before You Dig (If You Need To Dig)

When doing home improvements, you might have to dig around your backyard. However, even though it is not an NEC requirement, it is recommended to call 811, the national “Call Before You Dig” hotline, at least 3 days before you start digging.

The hotline STAFF will inform all utility providers in your area and those with lines running through your property will send a specialist to mark those lines. Power equipment can be used to dig no closer than 24 inches from the marked lines. If you wish to dig within those 24 inches, make sure you are using a hand shovel.

7 Electrical Outlet Types & How To Use Them

September 18, 2020 | Cristina Dinulescu

If you are thinking about making a few electrical upgrades in your home, it might be a good idea to start by knowing the electrical outlet types you have installed and what alternatives are there. By now, everyone knows all about smart outlets and receptacles with integrated USB ports, but there are many other electrical outlet types out there. Because each outlet has been designed for a specific purpose, when making home improvements, you want to be sure that your house is equipped with the right outlet for each use.

Most types are actually safety devices, designed to protect your house from different dangers, such as electrical fires, electrocutions or child tampering. If you want to find out more about how to ensure the electrical safety of your house, read our article here.

1. 15-Amp Duplex Receptacle

In the U.S., most homes have a combination of 15-amp and 20-amp, 120-volt circuits. By code, 15 amp circuits are for lighting and 20 amp are for dedicated circuits and general purpose receptacles. These are usually daisy chained together, like in your living room area. Older homes have the light and receptacles tied together which is not ideal. In the U.S., receptacles come with a U-shaped grounding hole and 2 slots.

The standard electrical outlet in America has a neutral (long) slot, a hot (shorter) slot and the U-shape grounding hole. They’re perfect for most small appliances and lamps.

2. 20A Outlets

20A outlets, combined with 20A circuits, are a good choice for devices in need of more power. If used properly for its general purpose, the breaker won’t trip, as these outlets can handle 25% more load compared to others. These breakers will only trip when the circuit is overloaded or there is a dead short. 20A circuits and breakers are usually found in kitchens or laundry rooms, sometimes even garages, where power-hungry appliances are found. If you install a dedicated circuit, then it should be used for its designed purpose, as there are others, general purpose use, which have multiple openings.

If you are wondering how you can determine if a circuit or outlet is rated at 20A, you should look for a small notch added into the prong opening, located on the left side. Outlets and circuits with this small notch are rated at 20A.

3. Switched Outlets

Switched outlets were used in the past to save money on overhead lighting. lamps etc. Today, they are usually only used for special instances, such as Christmas lights installations. This is a receptacle which includes an outlet and an on/off switch. This option comes very much in handy when you have a device plugged in, but you don’t want to keep it on all the time.

Also, this outlet is great when you want to create a switched extension cord. The cord itself will always receive power, but a second outlet, controlled by a switch is added.

4. GFCI & AFCI Outlets

When it comes to electricity, there are two major hazards, electrical fires and electrical shocks. The severity of both these hazards depends on a multitude of factors. For instance, the strength of electrical shocks is influenced by the pathway through the body, the length of time of the exposure to current and the amount of current. Whether or not the skin was wet influences the severity of the electrical shock, as water is a great electricity conductor.

It is very important to take preventive steps and invest in safety devices to reduce the risk of such hazards, such as:

inspect the wiring of each equipment before using it;
as much as possible, try not to use extension cords;
minimize water or other liquid spills near or on any electrical equipment;
have fuses or circuit breakers for multi-plug adapters;
install GFCI & AFCI outlets in your home.

The GFCI Outlet

This type of outlet protects your home against dangerous ground faults and, according to the 2008 National Electrical Code, these should be installed outdoors, in bathrooms, basements and wet kitchen areas. GFCI outlets also monitor the current level flowing through both the neutral and hot conductors, thus determining if the current is leaking from the circuit. If a leakage takes place and may reach a potentially dangerous level, the outlet will quickly turn the power off. You can read more about how to prevent electrical shocks here.

The AFCI Outlet

This electrical outlet helps prevent electrical fires caused by arc faults. Upon detecting a potentially dangerous fault, it shuts off power. The AFCI is capable of detecting several types of hazardous arc faults, which may occur from damage in branch circuit extensions and wiring to appliances or cord sets.

5. Tamper-Resistant Receptacle

The tamper-resistant receptacle can successfully replace the standard 5-amp and 20-amp outlet. In fact, according to the 2008 National Electrical Code, these receptacles must be used in both new constructions and renovations. One of the major benefits it brings is that it protects children from electrical injury.

These receptacles have a built-in mechanism to prevent small objects from being inserted. The shutters will only open when a properly rated electrical plug is inserted. They offer permanent protection, unlike plastic outlet caps which may fall off or be removed.

6. Specialty Outlets

To function safely and efficiently, some devices, tools or electronics require specific electrical types of outlets.

The Rotating Outlet

This type of outlet can be installed to reduce the need for power strips and to accommodate more than one plug, necessary for cell phone chargers, night lights, hair dryers and other appliances.

The Weather-Resistant Receptacle

This type of receptacle is required by the 2008 National Electrical Code and should be installed in damp or wet locations like decks, patios, pools or other residential outdoor areas. These come in two sizes, the 15 and 20-amp and they are built using corrosion-resistant, UV-stabilized thermoplastic. You’ll be able to find weather-resistant receptacles that are also tamper-resistant.

7. USB & Smart Outlets

We’re seeing more and more technology-friendly home improvement ideas like USB electrical outlet types. These are wall receptacles with one or more USB ports, allowing you to recharge your devices directly from the USB cable.

Ideal for both small and large electronics, there are several USB outlet options out there. One of the most popular types is the two standard outlet receptacles and two USB ports for charging cell phones. You can also get one with 4 USB ports. Both versions will charge your devices up to 4amps, so you’ll have a fully charged battery in no time.

Another technology-friendly option is the smart outlet. Unlike other types of wall outlets, these can be controlled using your smartphone. You can switch them on and off from your device, no matter where you might be. Because it uses z-wave communication, it will require a smart home hub in order to function.

What Is A USB Outlet & Is It Worth It?

September 16, 2020 | Cristina Dinulescu

Technology has most certainly influenced our lives in a manner few might have expected. Its influence has reached almost all industries and verticals, some of which have embraced technology completely. From big changes like virtual reality and electric cars to smaller ones, such as a USB outlet or wireless earphones, the past decade was definitely transformed.

But technology advancements are still heavily reliant on electricity, and while it might seem like a very small step forward, USB wall outlets can actually have a big impact on your day-to-day life. If you’re wondering what a USB outlet is and if it’s worth it, keep reading below.

What Is a USB Outlet?

Just as the name suggests, a USB outlet is a wall receptacle that features one or multiple USB ports, allowing you to charge electrical gadgets by using their regular USB cords, without needing an adapter.

Plug receptacles with built-in USB powered ports are already installed in places like airports, offices and even new-build houses. In these locations, they represent the new standard. They function in the same manner as any other USB port. Your device is connected to its cable, which is then plugged in directly into the receptacle without an adapter. This way, the electrical outlets are free for regular use.

You don’t have to worry about safety when it comes to plugging any USB-compatible device into these outlets. The charging speed, however, is a different matter. You might also need to consider hiring a licensed electrician for the wiring and installation of these outlets.

How To Choose a USB Electrical Outlet

Today, there is a great number and variety of electronic devices and people generally own more than one. In fact, in December 2019, a Deloitte report has shown that U.S. households own an average of 11 connected devices, and Pew Research Center showed that a third of Americans live in a house with three or more smartphones.

USB outlets are a popular alternative, both among users and contracts. They are considerably simpler to install, plus they are more modern. When shopping for a USB wall outlet, you should consider a few aspects.

1. Electrical Outlet Rating

This is actually the amount of power necessary from the circuit breaker to supply power to the USB outlet, which may vary from 15-amp to 20-amp.

2. The size

You need to pay attention to the size of the outlets, especially if you are planning to replace some of the old ones. Because USB outlets have a greater depth than standard ones, you might need to invest in a new in-wall-box.

3. Single versus Duplex

There are several types of USB outlets, so you’ll notice some options when you start shopping around. The most common ones are:

Single receptacle with 2 USB ports
Duplex receptacle with 2 USB ports
Receptacle with 4 USB ports

4. Maximum Amperage

The amount of amperage determines the charge speed of the outlet. The higher the amperage is, the faster the device will charge, but higher amperage is also needed to charge big devices. Considering the type of devices you wish to charge, your options are:

Standard USB ports of 1.0A/2.0A – these are suitable for charging phones;
3.0A/3.1A USB ports – these are ideal for charging medium-sized gadgets like tablets or Bluetooth headsets;
4.0A USB ports – ideal option for charging large electronics like laptops;
4.8A USB ports – suitable for charging all devices, anything from smartphones to smartwatches, tablets or laptops.

Do They Require Professional Installation?

Type-A and Type C USB charger/tamper-resistant receptacles can easily replace standard electrical outlets and you can do it yourself. In fact, some manufacturers offer extensive installation instructions, including YouTube videos. However, before performing any installation, one should properly examine the wiring in your wall box, which is why is advisable not to do it yourself.

If the wires do not match the description provided by the manufacturer or you do not have grounding wires, you should definitely call an electrician. If you are not comfortable to do the installation yourself, hiring an electrician is the right decision.

In terms of costs, USB electrical outlets incur no extra expenses. They provide the same amount of power as the USB charging cord included with your device. However, some USB receptacles have proven to charge devices faster than the original equipment offered by the manufacturer.

Is a USB Electrical Outlet Worth It?

First introduced in 1996, the USB was intended to help attach computer peripherals more easily. Quickly, it managed to replace serial and parallel connectors. The technology itself will, undoubtedly, be around for a while, and it has remained pretty much the same. A USB device made in 1996 can be charged with a new USB port. So, one of the main advantages is compatibility.

Additionally, a USB electrical outlet is worth investing in because it allows you to plug in electrical fixtures and devices, without adding to your electricity bill.

Versatility is something you definitely want to consider. USB wall receptacles can have different configurations. While some have one or two USB ports, others may provide a combination between USB-A ports of the traditional rectangle shape, charging up to 2.4A, and USB-C ports charging up to 3A, which are more oval-shaped.

There are other advantages to this type of outlets:

USB outlets can replace standard ones, in a matching wall plate;
Full-power USB outlets can distribute equal power to each port;
They can increase home value with little cost;
Micro-USB for charging phones is available.

Installing USB outlets can make your life easier and increase convenience. It’s important though to consider proper installation and safety, as having USB outlets in your home that are UL listed and respect the National Electrical Code standards is important. Also, if you have kids or pets, consider tamper resistance as an extra useful feature.

Types of Electricians in Los Angeles

September 14, 2020 | Cristina Dinulesu

California is the state with the highest employment level for electricians, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim area is the one with the highest quotient. If you’re looking for an electrician in Los Angeles, you’ve got over 200 options, so it might help to know what are the different types of electrician and which one you need.

Electricians’ primary job is to ensure the safe and effective running of electrical systems, from lights and appliances to wiring and equipment. They’re licensed, specialized tradesmen, who can perform a wide variety of tasks, ranging from reading technical electrical system blueprints to rewiring entire homes.

Almost all electricians have a certain specialty, a certain area that they have most experience in. For instance, at Penna Electric we specialize in full house rewiring and electrical panel upgrades, but we also perform a great deal of installations for car charging stations.

Domestic or Residential Electrician in Los Angeles

If you are a homeowner, then chances are you had to find and hire an electrician for either big projects or small updates. The bigger projects usually happen when you purchase the house, but can also be further down the road if the home becomes over 30 years old and the systems are outdated.

Residential electricians are the most common type, and as the name suggests, they perform electrical work in residential areas. They are mainly tasked with installing and maintaining electrical systems in homes.

But even within the category of domestic electricians, there are varying degrees of expertise and specialization, and you want to make sure you get the right man for the job. If you’re undertaking a major remodel that involves not just rewiring the house, but also updating the panel, installing outdoor lighting, adding structures to your house like extra rooms, a gym, etc. then you’ll need more than an electrician who changes a doorbell or an outlet.

You need to find a highly experienced electrician, who can instruct a team of workers and also plan and draw your project. Some of the work they need to perform includes:

- Reading technical blueprints;
- Rewiring, updating electrical systems and installing new lighting;
- Diagnosing and repairing any issues in the electrical system or wiring;
- Ensuring everything is up to code in accordance with the local and national electrical safety regulations;
- Making sure all electrical components in the house function properly.

Training and experience are both very important and should be considered when deciding what type of electrician in Los Angeles you need. Usually, training starts with formal classroom instruction, followed by an apprenticeship. This lasts a minimum of four years under the supervision of an experienced electrician. At the end of the apprenticeship, a residential electrician needs to pass rigorous state testing.

At Penna Electric, our workers are mainly residential electricians with years of training and experience. Todd Penna, the Owner and CEO, first became certified with the state of California as a journeyman electrician. He then took his electrical contractors test to become an electrical contractor and the class B contractors test to become a licensed contractor. He has more than 20 years experience in the electrical industry.

Commercial Electrician

Commercial electricians work on very large projects, in commercial structures, such as office buildings or malls. They also work on construction sites or on mechanical electrical systems. There’s also some installation tasks that go with commercial electrical work, but those usually include electronic key systems, security systems, or water heaters.

Just like with domestic ones, commercial electricians require extensive training and experience. One needs 2,000 hours of apprenticeship training, as well as to work under a master electrician before licensing. Their range of duties include:

- Inspecting electrical systems and components in commercial building to make sure they’re compliant with all regulations and safe for work;
- Installing and maintaining wiring and electrical systems;
- Leading teams of apprentices and junior electricians;
- Reading and interpreting technical drawing and plans;
- Repairing any electrical issues;
- Being up to date with local and national electrical safety regulations.

While Penna Electric mainly performs residential work, our electricians perform light commercial work as well. It ranges from replacing main electrical panels in small office buildings or installing additional sub-panels to Tenant Improvement work and installing new equipment. This generally refers to heavy equipment, such as forklift charging stations, requiring conduit and a disconnect switch.

Other work may include installing new lighting in commercial buildings. In California, Title 24 is geared towards reducing wasteful and unnecessary energy consumption, and Penna Electric has worked with many companies to make sure they are Title 24 compliant.

Security and Fire Alarm Electrician in Los Angeles

Electricians who specialize in security and fire alarm installation can be both residential and commercial. They work with low-voltage systems, such as fire alarms, smoke alarms and security cameras and alarms. The duties involve installing, repairing and upgrading any of these systems, as well as potentially maintaining close circuit TV systems and performing inspections.

In California, low-voltage electricians require a C-7 license, which states that a “communication and low voltage contractor installs, services and maintains all types of communication and low voltage systems which are energy limited and do not exceed 91 volts”.

Other Types

Depending on specialty and training, there are many other types of electricians you’ll find in Los Angeles area. Solar technicians, for instance, will probably be in higher and higher demand. They install, maintain and repair solar panels and systems. They can also be further specialized in domestic solar panels and commercial solar systems.

Industrial electricians, maintenance, electrotechnical panel builders, or instrumentation electricians are all different types that highly specialize in an area depending on what systems they work with. Instrumentation electricians, for instance, work with environmental control systems, such as large air conditioning units, large refrigeration units or heating.

You can also categorize electricians based on the industry they work in, such as automotive, aviation or marine electricians.

Types of Certifications

The above specializations give you an idea of how important it is to find an electrician in Los Angeles who is trained and experienced in exactly the type of work you need. It’s not just the specialty that matters, but also their experience level. There are 3 stages: apprentices, journeymen and electrical contractors or primary electricians.

Apprentices

An apprentice is the most junior stage in one’s electrical career. The electrician has to acquire an apprenticing license and carry an apprentice card. There’s no formal education required to apply for an apprentice license, but the apprentice has to be always supervised by a journeyman electrician.

Journeyman Electricians

The next level after apprentice is the journeyman electrician. It requires the completion of an approved apprenticeship program with at least 8,000 hours of training in no less than four years. Because they have more experience, journeyman electricians are qualified to work on larger, more complex projects.

After the apprenticeship is complete, there is a journeyman certification exam, and if the electrician passes, then they are given their license. This also means they can work unsupervised.

Electrical Contractors

Electrical contractors are also called master electricians, primary electricians, and sometimes Class A electricians. They are highly skilled and usually work in a supervisory role, or they own a contracting business.

In the state of California, in order to have a C-10 Electrical Contractor License, an electrician must have 4 years minimum of experience at journeyman level and pass a two part state exam with the Contractor State License Board.

This is the highest qualification an electrician can hold. Not only does it mean that they can excel in the installation, repair and maintenance of electrical systems, but also that they can also manage a team of journeymen and apprentices.

At Penna Electric, our electricians are highly trained, skilled and experienced. Our primary electrician holds a B general contractor license, as well as a C-10 electrical license. Our other workers are highly experienced journeyman electricians.

EMF Protection: 6 Steps You Can Take For You & Your Family

September 9, 2020 | Cristina Dinulescu

EMF stands for electric and magnetic fields, which are invisible areas of energy or radiation. They are produced by electricity, which is why EMF protection is extremely important today more than ever, as our electricity usage has significantly increased over the years.

Electric and magnetic fields coming from power systems are harmful and contribute to pollution. Unfortunately, these harmful EMFs surround us all the time, as we are constantly exposed to their sources. EMFs can be triggered by the TV, both small and large appliances, even Wi-Fi technology and cellphones.

EMFs are not visible, but assuming that EMFs radiation was light, then you would have to imagine the world as Times Square times 10, brightly illuminated. Light would shine through every window or wall in your home, even the ceiling. If you would associate EMFs with noise, then imagine an on-going tapping noise, coming from your door, walls, or other hard surfaces.

Is EMF Harmful to Humans?

EMF radiation is unavoidable and harmful to humans. As science has shown us, EMF radiation affects the human body at a cellular level, having a significant number of negative effects. These include loss of calcium, DNA, and cell membrane damage. It has been noticed that long-term exposure to EMF radiation can lead to afflictions such as cancer, diabetes, brain tumors, heart disease, depression, Parkinson’s, and even Alzheimer’s.

Even though electric and magnetic fields coming from WiFi networks, laptops and other electronics are categorized as non-ionizing, which means their potency is low, the sheer large amount of time we spend surrounded by these devices, using them, poses a potential risk.

Additionally, scientists are studying the possible dangers, as well as the long-term health effects of ELF( Extremely Low-Frequency radiation) emitted from different electronic gadgets. Radio Frequency radiation ( Wi-Fi & Bluetooth technology included) is part of EMFs.

When the fields interfere with our bodies and there is no EMF protection in place, it increases our exposure and the risk of health effects, such as:

sleep disturbances
asthma
allergies
loss of memories
breast cancer
nausea
headaches
arthritis
Infertility
chronic fatigue
childhood leukemia

It is important to mention that EMF radiation affects children more than adults because their organs are not fully developed and they have thinner skulls. EMF protection is critical for babies, kids, and pregnant women.

6 EMF Protection Steps To Take

Just because these electric and magnetic fields are everywhere, it doesn’t mean you can’t minimize your exposure or take steps to ensure EMF protection for your home. Below are six of the most common measures you can take to mitigate the risk.

1. Invest in EMF radiation protection cases

Turn off your cell phones and tablets when sleeping or as often as possible and keep them out of the kids’ bedrooms.

Because cell phones have become indispensable, you might also want to invest in EMF protection cases. Remember that every time you are holding your cell phone close to your ear, you receive more than 50% of the EMF radiation the device emits. With a protective phone case, you are reducing the exposure level. Plus, to obtain even better results, you can text more, use a landline more often, and use headphones to communicate.

Also, the laptop and the tablet have the same effect over our bodies, so you could take the same step for these devices. There are dedicated cases that fit laptops and reduce the EMF radiation level.

2. Keep gadgets at a distance

Having a TV in your bedroom or sleeping with your cell phone under the pillow or on the nightstand seems harmless, but it isn’t. These are EMF radiation sources and to reduce exposure, you should keep them at distance.

It is advisable to remove TVs, cell phones, computers and tablets from the kids’ bedroom, as well as your own. Also, you should try and keep your cell phone 10 mm away from your body, meaning that it might not be safe to place it in your pockets or sports bra. Another good preventive step is to avoid keeping your laptop on your lap.

3. Earthing to reduce radiation

Fighting technology with nature is very effective. Earthing refers to walking barefoot as much as you possibly can. Of course, doing that in the big city may be potentially problematic, but that’s what parks are for. This will allow you to easily connect with the earth, thus removing air pollution, heavy metals, and even reduce inflammation.

The earth’s electrons function as a sponge, soaking up positively-charged electrons which usually cause inflammations, and balancing your health. So, walk barefoot, spend more time in the great outdoors, take trips to the ocean, or visit waterfalls if possible. For even better results, invest in different grounding devices you can use to obtain a similar effect to walking barefoot.

4. Give up WiFi For EMF Protection

These days, few homes are left without Wi-Fi technology. It’s highly convenient and it significantly reduces the need for wires around the house. However, this technology increases EMF radiation so it’s not exactly beneficial on all levels.

That’s why it is advisable to opt for hardwire internet connections instead of Wi-Fi and reduce the number of Bluetooth and wireless devices as much as you can. If possible, when you are not using Wi-Fi, try to keep it turned off. For instance, you could do so at night. Avoid using wireless baby monitors in the baby’s room.

Also, while sleeping, you should unplug all electronic devices and if you are using an alarm clock, switch to a battery-powered option. Electric blankets are also to be avoided, and so are electrical outlets positioned at the head of the bed.

5. Keep smart meters away

Smart meters record your daily energy usage. This means that they are constantly functioning, emitting high-intensity pulses. Lately, research has shown that in communities where wireless smart meters were installed, residents did in fact complain of symptoms like headache, fatigue, insomnia, irritability, hearing loss/tinnitus, decreased cognitive function, weakened immune function, or heart palpitations.

6. Spend more time away from technology

Another simple step you can take is to spend more time with your family and friends and away from technology. By reducing the time you spend in front of the computer, laptop or TV, you are minimizing the level of radiations you are exposed to. Instead of spending hours and hours talking on your cell phone, enjoy the company of your friends face-to-face.

Taking long walks in nature, enjoying a barefoot walk on the beach or a swim in the ocean makes you healthier and happier, and it’s the best EMF radiation protection out there. Reconnect with yourself and your family and disconnect from technology.

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Penna Electric Answers 6 Most Important Questions for an Electrician

Check out the 6 most important questions you should ask any electrician before hiring and Penna Electric’s answers to all of them.

Month: September 2020

Reason #1: Battery

Reason #2: Dirty Sensor

Reason #3: Malfunction

Reason #4: It Needs Replacing

Reason #5: Interference

Reason #6: Environmental Factors

Reason #7: False Alarm

1. Always “on” appliances

2. Misuse of certain appliances

3. Lights and ceiling fans

4. Light Bulbs

5. Improper Insulation

6. Overcharging Devices

7. Misusing the AC

1. Choose The Right Location For The Outdoor Outlet

2. Cover The Outdoor Outlet

What Should You Do If The Outlet Gets Wet

3. Use The Right Cables & Conduits

4. Choose The Proper Cover

5. Call Before You Dig (If You Need To Dig)

1. 15-Amp Duplex Receptacle

2. 20A Outlets

3. Switched Outlets

4. GFCI & AFCI Outlets

5. Tamper-Resistant Receptacle

6. Specialty Outlets

7. USB & Smart Outlets

What Is a USB Outlet?

How To Choose a USB Electrical Outlet

1. Electrical Outlet Rating

2. The size

3. Single versus Duplex

4. Maximum Amperage

Do They Require Professional Installation?

Is a USB Electrical Outlet Worth It?

Domestic or Residential Electrician in Los Angeles

Commercial Electrician

Security and Fire Alarm Electrician in Los Angeles

Other Types

Types of Certifications

Is EMF Harmful to Humans?

6 EMF Protection Steps To Take

1. Invest in EMF radiation protection cases

2. Keep gadgets at a distance

3. Earthing to reduce radiation

4. Give up WiFi For EMF Protection

5. Keep smart meters away

6. Spend more time away from technology

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