Land & Property Archives | Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

How to Prevent an Electrical Scare This Halloween

Tips to Avoid Electrical Problems While Decorating for Halloween and the Holidays

Though Thanksgiving is the official start of the holiday season, Halloween is the unofficial start where outdoor lighting and decor start. Whether it’s string lighting or flashing lanterns, homeowners frequently use more electricity for decorations from now until the end of the year. To avoid electrical hazards while decorating, here are a few tips to help keep the neighborhood safe.

Use Safe Holiday Decorations

How decorations are used and the condition of the decorations matter significantly for safety. Checking the cords and wiring is essential before hanging or using electric holiday decor and lights. Frayed or damaged ones are considered a safety hazard and should not be used.

Homeowners should always avoid using staple guns and nails to hang holiday lights and electric decorations. These can cut into the cords and damage the wiring, creating a potential fire hazard. Draping lights along designated hooks is much more safe. Additionally, homeowners should be careful that outside holiday decorations and lights are meant for outdoor use since rain and the elements are a factor.

Decorate Safely for the Holidays

Decorating homes with lights and other electrical decor during Halloween and the holidays is a fun tradition, but it's important to remember the potential dangers of overloading outlets. Most overloaded circuits are caused by trying to draw too much power from a single outlet, which can lead to overheating and even fires.

The best way to avoid overloading outlets is by spreading out the power draw. This means plugging devices into different outlets and not relying on just one outlet or circuit to power all the holiday lights and decorations. If homeowners find that all the holiday decorations are causing an overload on a single outlet or circuit, it's time to relocate some of them. Spread the power draw by plugging in lights and decor into different outlets to reach other circuits. It may require some extra effort, but it's worth it for the home's safety.

Some Signs Electrical Repair May Be Necessary

In addition to checking the cords and wires and decorating for the holidays safely, homeowners should be aware of signs they need electrical service to keep their homes safe this Halloween and beyond. Electrical repairs are an essential aspect of maintaining a safe and functional home. It is crucial to pay attention to any signs that indicate potential electrical problems, as they can quickly escalate into dangerous situations if left unaddressed.

Some common signs electrical repair may be needed are if homeowners notice lights flickering or becoming dim, damaged, cracked, or charred outlets, breakers or fuses are constantly tripping or blowing, or a burning smell. A trained electrician can resolve the problem causing these symptoms and improve home safety so homeowners don’t have to be worried about an electrical scare this Halloween.

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air has more than 30 years of expertise serving Port St. Lucie and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, on-time arrival, and 24/7 emergency service. Call them today for electrical services in Port St. Lucie, FL.

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Take Advantage of Tax Credits for Energy-Efficient Home Improvements

Get Tax Credits for Eligible Home Improvements and Reduce Your Energy Costs!

Because of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, homeowners can now receive tax credits when they make energy-efficient home improvements installed between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2032. This is a great way to help reduce energy costs, get more money back on taxes, and add value to a home. Here are some tips on how homeowners can take advantage of this legislation:

Research Eligible Energy-Efficient Upgrades

There are many home improvements that can increase a home's energy efficiency and are eligible for federal tax credits. Before making any major purchases, research what upgrades will qualify to maximize savings and consult a professional who can help guide the decision-making process and ensure the improvements are done correctly so they can be eligible.

Not only will professionals be able to advise on what products or materials would work best for a home, but they may also be able to help identify additional energy-efficient upgrades eligible for tax credits and install them correctly. Some of the notable home improvements that are eligible for the tax credits include:

ENERGY STAR-certified ducted air source heat pumps are eligible for homeowners to claim 30% of the project cost up to $2,000
ENERGY STAR-certified ductless mini split heat pumps with a SEER2 rating of 16 or higher are eligible for homeowners to claim 30% of the project cost up to $2,000
ENERGY STAR-certified central AC systems with a SEER2 rating of 16 or higher are eligible for homeowners to claim 30% of the project cost up to $600
ENERGY STAR-certified gas furnaces with an AFUE rating of 97% or higher are eligible for homeowners to claim 30% of the project cost up to $600
ENERGY STAR-certified water heaters with 0.81 UEF or higher (for tanks less than 55 gallons) and 0.86 UEF or higher (for tanks holding 55 gallons or more) are eligible for homeowners to claim 30% of the project cost up to $600
ENERGY STAR-certified tankless water heaters with 0.95 UEF or higher are eligible for homeowners to claim 30% of the project cost up to $600
Electrical panel upgrades or replacement with a load capacity of 200 amps or more and is done alongside or enables the installation of qualified energy-effect improvements are eligible for homeowners to claim 30% of the project cost up to $600

Apply for Your Tax Credit

For tax purposes, it’s important to keep all of the necessary paperwork and receipts handy so everything can be properly documented. This includes any invoices or contracts related to the eligible home improvement as well as the total cost of the work.

Finally, when homeowners are ready to file their taxes, take advantage of the energy-efficient home improvement tax credit by completing the correct form and submitting it to the IRS. This form will allow homeowners to claim credits for eligible upgrades.

With the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, homeowners have a great opportunity to save money on energy bills and increase their home’s value by making energy-efficient upgrades that qualify for tax credits. So don't miss out - start researching eligible energy-efficient upgrades and reach out today!

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air has over 30 years of experience serving Port St. Lucie and the surrounding areas. They offer upfront pricing, on-time arrival, and personal attention. Call them today to take advantage of tax credits on energy-efficient home improvements in Port St. Lucie, FL.

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Celebrate National Wellness Month and Implement These Important Safety Measures

How to Keep Families Safe at Home

National Wellness Month may be about highlighting self-care, stress reduction, and the pursuit of happiness, but all of those things won’t be possible if safety isn’t provided first, and what better place to begin than the home? The following are necessary safety measures that homeowners should take to ensure that they and the people they love remain safe, stress-free, and happy in the most comfortable of all places - the home.

Importance of Smoke Detectors

A smoke detector is one of the most critical devices homeowners can install in their homes to provide a line of defense against fire hazards. Not only do they give peace of mind that there will be a warning in the event of smoke or a fire, but they are also required in all states to be installed in designated areas in the house. This is because smoke detectors are highly effective.

Smoke detectors should be maintained regularly with checks and battery replacement. Batteries on smoke detectors usually only last six months, after which the smoke detector can begin to chirp to indicate battery replacement is needed. But modern versions of this device can now last up to 10 years without battery replacement.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors Save Lives

Aside from smoke detectors, a carbon monoxide detector is another crucial device to install at home to protect against carbon monoxide inhalation. Carbon monoxide, which is produced when carbon is burned incompletely, is a colorless and odorless gas that can be lethal if left undetected.

Similar to smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors are regulated by each state and are required in all but two. Because of this, many homes have a combined smoke and carbon monoxide detector instead of having a separate device to detect each hazard. However, unless it’s specified that the device can detect both, carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors are not the same.

Schedule an Electrical Inspection

A routine electrical safety inspection is one of the most vital precautions homeowners can take to ensure that their homes meet the standards of electrical safety prescribed by the law. Ensuring homes are subject to regular electrical inspections lowers the risk of fires and electrocutions that overloaded circuits, frayed wiring, or faulty electrical installation may cause.

These inspections are ideally conducted every three to five years by an electrician to assess the home’s electrical system and the changing power demands of its occupants. However, an electrical inspection must be conducted earlier if homeowners become aware of the following hazardous signs:

Small shocks when plugging or unplugging appliances
Burning smell
Flickering lights
Sparks coming out of outlets
Hot or discolored outlets

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air has been serving the community of Port St. Lucie and the surrounding areas since 1988. They offer upfront pricing, same-day service, and 24/7 emergency service. Call them today for electrical services in Port St. Lucie, FL.

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Answering Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Refrigerant

Coolant and Its Necessity in Air Conditioning

Most people know that air conditioners keep homes and businesses cool and comfortable during summer, but how much do most people know about how they work? Most people don’t realize that most air conditioning units are less about creating cool air and more about absorbing heat.

The primary medium that cooling systems use to absorb heat is refrigerant. It passes through a closed system of copper tubing that expands to absorb the heat and then is condensed in order to pass in front of a blower to absorb heat indoors again. This article will cover the basics of refrigerant and answer frequently asked questions about it.

FAQ #1: How Can You Tell What Kind of Refrigerant an AC Uses?

There are several different types of refrigerants, and each AC system can only use the type of refrigerant it was designed to use. Putting the wrong refrigerant in an air conditioning system can have dire consequences, much as putting the wrong type of gas in a car can be detrimental to the engine.

A homeowner can figure out which refrigerant their air conditioner uses by looking at the outdoor condenser unit. The label should say the type it uses. If a home’s HVAC system is older than 2010, it likely contains R-22 refrigerant, also called Freon. It was banned for use in new ACs in 2010 due to causing environmental damage, so newer units will not have it.

FAQ #2: Why Is the AC Leaking Refrigerant?

There is no one catch-all answer to this question. There are several reasons why an AC unit could have a coolant leak. Some of the most common reasons are listed below.

The age of the unit
Normal wear and tear
Corrosion
Pinholes caused by acid exposure.

Depending on the severity of the damage, these problems may be repaired or require replacement and investment in a new unit. An HVAC contractor can determine the best course of action after inspecting the system.

FAQ #3: How Can You Tell if There’s a Refrigerant Leak?

If a homeowner suspects a refrigerant leak, they should call a trained professional. They have tools, such as a refrigerant leak detector, that protect them from close exposure. Refrigerant is a dangerous substance and should be avoided by people not trained to handle it. Some of the signs of a refrigerant leak are listed below.

Not Cooling: If the unit is not cooling the home, or at least not cooling as expected, there may be a refrigerant leak in the coils.

Frozen AC Coil: If a homeowner can see ice built up on the coils, this is evidence of a leak. A frozen coil is often due to a refrigerant leak.

Hissing or Gurgling: If sounds like hissing or gurgling are coming from the AC unit, it may be due to a refrigerant leak.

While homeowners can certainly change air filters, they should not attempt to make repairs on their own. These units and coolants can be delicate and dangerous for an untrained individual.

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air has over 30 years of experience serving Port St. Lucie and the surrounding areas. They provide 24/7 emergency service, upfront pricing, and fast turnarounds. Call them today for air conditioning and evaporator coil services in Port St. Lucie, FL.

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Create the Perfect Outdoor Space for a Summer Get-Together

Get the Outdoors Ready for Guests

Summer is a season of socialization. By the time the summer arrives, most people have shifted into a slower gear. With so many people taking time off from work, kids being out for summer, and going on vacations; there is some time in everyone's schedule for more socializing, which means some outdoor fun in the backyard.

Hosting guests during the summer is a treat, but if this summer soiree is going to become a tradition, the outdoor space has to be perfect. People can make a few additions to their backyard to create the ideal atmosphere for summer fun. Here are some suggestions to help turn any outdoor space into a perfect space for summer parties.

Upgrade and Install Exterior Lighting

The only downside to summertime is the heat. With daytime temperatures soaring, most people wait until the sun goes down to start having fun outside. This means that many outdoor parties will be under the cover of darkness for at least some of the time. The party is over when night falls if the backyard isn’t ready.

Simply install some outdoor lighting to overcome the drawbacks of partying when the sun goes down. No outdoor space is complete without exterior lighting that provides lighting around stairs and footpaths for safety and also sets the ambiance for the evening. Before inviting everyone over for a backyard dinner party or barbeque this summer, ensure the scene is set with the perfect exterior lighting.

Install a Reliable Generator

Summer is meant for fun, but things don’t always go according to plan. Summer also happens to be a season when severe weather is common. One of the most common causes of power loss is weather events, so everyone should take the opportunity to protect themselves and their homes in the event of a power loss.

Installing a backup generator can be extremely beneficial. Always having a generator available means the home is protected from power outages. When professionals install generators, the grid-to-generator power transition is seamless and automatic. What better excuse for a summer party than inviting everyone over during a power outage?

Put in a Pool or Hot Tub

If an outdoor party in the evening isn’t on the agenda, maybe an afternoon of fun is. Another of summer’s best pastimes is swimming and lounging around a pool on a hot day. For those that don’t yet have an outdoor water feature, this is a great time to look into installing a pool or hot tub.

Always use qualified electricians when installing pools and hot tubs. As the adage goes, “Electricity and water don’t mix.” Electricians are experienced and trained in the proper installation techniques to ensure cold water is the only shock people receive when they hop in the pool. Don’t take chances when it comes to safety.

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air has over three decades of experience serving Port St. Lucie and the surrounding communities. They provide upfront pricing, on-time arrival, and fast turnarounds. Call them today for electrical services in Port St. Lucie, FL.

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Signs That AC Replacement May Be Needed Before the Start of Summer

Warning Signs Indicating the Need for AC Replacement

As the weather starts warming up, many homeowners start thinking about their air conditioning system and whether it's ready for summer. It's essential to address any issues with an air conditioner before the temperatures rise, as nobody wants to be left without cool air in the sweltering summer heat. This article will discuss some warning signs that indicate it may be time to replace the AC unit before the start of summer.

The Importance of Upgrading an Old Unit Before Summer

As with any appliance, air conditioning units have a limited lifespan. The average lifespan of an air conditioner is around 10 to 20 years, depending on factors such as the type of AC system, frequency of use, and maintenance. Once an AC unit reaches this age range, it is more prone to breakdowns and repairs, especially during the summer when it runs more frequently.

By upgrading to a newer, energy-efficient unit before the old one breaks down, homeowners can avoid being stuck without air conditioning during the hottest months of the year while saving on their energy bills and repair costs since older units are typically less energy efficient and require more frequent repairs. Older AC units may also use outdated refrigerants that are being phased out and can be expensive to replace. Replacing an old air conditioner before it completely breaks down can save homeowners from the inconvenience and discomfort of being without cool air during the hot summer months and save them money in the long run.

A Decline in the Energy Efficiency of the AC

As an air conditioner ages, it loses energy efficiency. This causes the unit to use more energy than necessary and can lead to increased utility bills. Any malfunctioning components or neglected maintenance can also lead to decreased energy efficiency and higher energy costs. In some cases, inefficient air conditioners may need to be replaced due to their age or the level of damage. However, if a newer AC is experiencing an energy efficiency issue, it may just need to be repaired to restore its energy efficiency and lower utility bills.

Proper maintenance on an air conditioner can help preserve the unit’s energy efficiency and lifespan while also helping to save homeowners money on energy bills in the long run. Regular maintenance checks can help identify any issues and prevent them from causing damage that necessitates the unit's replacement. It is essential to have a professional HVAC technician inspect the system to determine whether repair or replacement is the best course of action.

AC Not Cooling Your Home Enough

If homeowners notice that their air conditioner is not keeping their home as cool as it used to or is not cooling at all, there could be several reasons for this. Here are some common causes to consider:

The AC unit is undersized or incorrectly installed
The air ducts are leaking air or obstructed
The refrigerant levels are low
The compressor is failing
The AC unit is old and has lost its efficiency

If an AC system is experiencing issues cooling the home or warm air blows out of the vents when the air conditioning is on, it may be time to replace it before summer to ensure the house stays comfortable in the hot months ahead. Professionals can inspect the air conditioner for the cause of the issue and determine whether repair or replacement is the best option.

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air has over three decades of experience serving Port St. Lucie and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, personal attention, and 24/7 emergency service. Call them today for air conditioning replacements in Port St. Lucie, FL.

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How Long Can Your Home Last Without Power?

Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and delicious oranges, but it is also infamous for its hurricane season. Between June 1st and November 30th, Floridians and visitors alike must remain vigilant and prepared for potential storms. Hurricanes can be devastating, causing power outages, flooding, and the destruction of homes and businesses.

One of the most significant challenges during a hurricane is dealing with the loss of power. Many people may not realize how much they depend on electricity until it's gone. This blog will explore the most important things to consider when going into hurricane season without a whole-home generator.

Heat:

Air conditioning and fans are no longer an option without power, making the heat and humidity feel even more oppressive. During a hurricane, it's important to stay cool and hydrated to avoid heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Staying in your home with temperatures above 78 F for long periods can lead to scary symptoms, such as dizziness, nausea, fever, and fatigue, usually resulting in heat exhaustion or heat stroke. These are serious signals that you are too hot and should seek medical treatment right away.

Beyond the risks to human health, high temperatures can also have an impact on the structural integrity of your home, causing materials to expand and potentially crack. Additionally, appliances and electronics can be affected, with some becoming damaged or malfunctioning when exposed to excessive heat. High temperatures can also increase the risk of mold and mildew growth, which can be harmful to your health.

Humidity:

Florida is known for its high humidity levels, even without a hurricane. When your air conditioning system goes down in a hurricane, you may experience discomfort and potentially dangerous conditions due to the sudden rise in humidity. While your air conditioning unit works to keep your indoor humidity between 30-50%, this line of defense is gone if you do not have a generator powering your home. High humidity has also been linked to heat exhaustion, respiratory distress, and heat stroke. It is extremely important to ensure that you can manage the humidity within your home during these emergencies.

In addition to these health hazards, prolonged exposure to high humidity can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause damage to walls, floors, and ceilings. It can also cause paint to peel, wallpaper to bubble, and wood to warp or rot. Humidity can also increase the levels of dust mites and other allergens in your home, leading to respiratory issues and aggravating allergies.

Food:

During a power outage, food spoilage can be a significant issue, particularly if the outage lasts for an extended period. Without power, refrigerators and freezers are unable to keep food at a safe temperature, leading to spoilage and potentially dangerous bacteria growth. According to the USDA, perishable foods such as meat, dairy, and eggs can only last up to four hours without refrigeration. This can result in the loss of a significant amount of food, which can be expensive and difficult to replace. Access to food can also be limited during natural disasters such as hurricanes, with grocery stores and restaurants often closed or inaccessible. In these situations, it is important to take steps to keep perishable food safe by ensuring that your generator is working properly before the storm.

We all know hurricanes in Florida can be dangerous and life-threatening events, and it's essential to be prepared. When the power goes out, it's important to consider food spoilage, humidity, and heat to stay safe and comfortable during the storm. By preparing ahead of the season and installing a whole-home generator, you can eliminate these risks when the power goes out. Give our team at Elite a call to learn more about how a whole-home generator can work for you.

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5 Ways to Prepare Your Florida Home Now for Hurricane Season

As the summer months approach, it is important to be prepared for potential hurricanes in Florida. Having the proper precautions in place can help protect you, your family, and your home from the possible destruction of a hurricane. In this blog post, we will explore five ways that you can prepare your Florida home now for the season ahead. From securing your roof to stocking up on supplies, these tips can help keep you and your family safe when the weather takes a turn for the worse.

1) Inspect Your Home

When hurricane season rolls around, it’s important to make sure your home is ready for whatever the storms might bring. One of the best ways to do that is to inspect your home and make any repairs needed before the storms arrive. Start by walking around the outside of your house and checking for any damage, like loose or missing shingles, cracked windows, or signs of deterioration. Additionally, check that your gutters are clear and in good condition to prevent water damage. Inside your house, check that all doors and windows will securely shut and lock. Install storm shutters or coverings on windows if you don’t have them already, and ensure that all window and door seals are tight and secure. Check the weather stripping and thresholds of your exterior doors to make sure they are in good condition. Finally, check that all vents are closed and sealed properly, and make sure you have enough supplies, like sandbags, to protect your home in case of flooding. Taking the time to inspect your home now can save you a lot of headaches during hurricane season.

2) Install A Generator

Florida is located in a region that is frequently impacted by hurricanes, which can cause widespread power outages that can last for days or even weeks. Elite is here with the solution you need during this unpredictable time: a whole-home generator. Our team of trained technicians will ensure that they install the correct generator for your home’s needs so that you can enjoy the many benefits:

Maintain Power During Outages: A generator can help you maintain power during a hurricane-related power outage, allowing you to keep important appliances such as refrigerators, freezers, and air conditioning units running.
Protection of Property: A generator can help protect your property from damage caused by power outages, such as spoiled food and flooded basements caused by sump pumps that stop working.
Safety: A generator can help ensure your safety during a hurricane by keeping lights on, allowing you to see and move around your home more easily. It can also power medical equipment for those who require it.
Resale Value: Installing a generator can increase the resale value of your home, as it is a desirable feature for potential buyers.

Overall, installing a generator can help provide peace of mind during hurricane season and ensure that your home and family are protected during power outages.

3) Clear Debris From Your Yard

One of the most important things you can do to protect your Florida home from hurricane season is to clear debris from your yard. Make sure you inspect your property and remove any loose objects like branches, leaves, or lawn furniture that could become a hazard in high winds. If you have any large trees near your home, consider having them trimmed by an arborist or removed completely to reduce the risk of potential damage during a storm. You may also want to look into installing additional drainage systems or consider raising flower beds and other landscaping features to create better runoff patterns away from your house. Taking these steps now will help ensure your home is more prepared for the upcoming hurricane season.

4) Stock Up On Supplies

Having supplies ready is an important part of preparing your Florida home for hurricane season. Make sure you have enough non-perishable food, water, and medication to last your family at least a week. Also, consider buying items like batteries, flashlights, candles, and a first-aid kit. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, make sure you have sandbags and other items to protect your home from water damage. Additionally, if you rely on electricity for medical equipment or special needs, make sure to have backup generators or other power sources that will keep you safe during power outages. Finally, don’t forget to gather important documents, such as passports, insurance policies, and birth certificates, so you can have them on hand in case you need to evacuate.

5) Have An Evacuation Plan

When hurricane season hits, you may have to evacuate your Florida home to stay safe. In the face of a major storm, it’s important to have an evacuation plan ready. Start by gathering information on the evacuation routes and designated shelters in your area. Make sure you know the route you will take in case of an emergency. Also, create a contact list of friends and family members who live in different areas that you can reach out to for assistance. Additionally, make sure to keep important documents and valuables such as identification, insurance policies, and money in a waterproof bag that you can grab quickly if you need to evacuate. Knowing where these items are ahead of time will save you a lot of hassle if you need to leave. It’s also important to have a checklist of all the items you need for an evacuation, such as food, water, clothing, and medications. Finally, be sure to let others know your evacuation plans before the storm hits. Having your plan communicated with family and friends can help ensure everyone’s safety in case of an emergency. Remember: when it comes to hurricane season, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

With these steps, you can be prepared for anything Florida weather throws your way. Our team at Elite is here to help kick off your hurricane preparation this season by ensuring your generator runs in tip-top shape with regular maintenance and options for a replacement that better suits your home and needs.

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Worried About Hurricane Season? Here's What You Need to Know

With hurricane season upon us, it’s important to make sure you’re prepared. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to prepare for hurricane season, so you can feel confident that you and your loved ones are safe. In this blog post, we'll cover what you need to know about hurricanes so that you can prepare better for them.

Who is Affected By Hurricanes in Florida?

With more than 21 million people living in the state, hurricanes are a real and immediate threat to many people. When a hurricane strikes, it can leave behind devastating destruction that can affect your home and even your safety. That’s why it’s important to know who is at risk when a hurricane hits. The most vulnerable people during hurricane season are those who live in coastal communities or along rivers, as well as low-lying areas and areas prone to flooding. These areas may include beach towns, inland cities near bodies of water, or even isolated rural areas. Those living in mobile homes are especially at risk, as they provide very little protection against the powerful winds of a hurricane. The elderly and those with limited mobility can also be particularly vulnerable during a hurricane because they may not be able to evacuate safely.

Everyone in Florida needs to take steps to prepare for hurricane season and stay informed about the latest hurricane activity. Understanding who is affected by hurricanes in Florida is the first step in staying safe and protecting your property during the storm.

What Differentiates a Tropical Storm From a Hurricane?

The main difference between a hurricane and a tropical storm is wind speed. Hurricanes are much more powerful and destructive than tropical storms because they have sustained winds that reach at least 74 mph. Tropical storms, on the other hand, form from tropical depressions and have wind speeds of 39 mph or less. In addition to wind speed, hurricanes typically have a large and distinct eye, a low-pressure area at the center of the storm. This is surrounded by rain bands, which are thick rings of clouds with intense rainfall. These rain bands can stretch hundreds of miles from the eye of the storm. The strongest winds in a hurricane are located in the eyewall, which is the circle of clouds surrounding the eye. Hurricanes can last for days, while tropical storms usually only last a few hours or up to a day. Hurricanes also tend to bring with them higher amounts of rainfall and storm surges than tropical storms, making them more dangerous and destructive. It's important to remember that all hurricanes start as tropical storms and can quickly strengthen into a hurricane if conditions are right. So it's important to take all tropical storms seriously and be prepared for possible hurricane conditions.

When Do Hurricanes Happen?

Photo courtesy of the National Hurricane Center & Central Pacific Hurricane Center

The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30. However, hurricanes can occur outside of these dates; storms have been recorded every month of the year. Most tropical storms and hurricanes form between August and October as the warm waters of the Atlantic begin to heat up. This is because hurricanes are fueled by the heat of the ocean and need at least 79°F of water temperature to form. Hurricanes can even form in the spring months, although they are less common during this period. It’s important to remember that hurricanes can happen any time of year. Although there are typically more storms during the peak season, you should always be prepared for any unexpected storms. Understanding when hurricanes happen is an important part of being prepared for the hurricane season.

Where Can We Expect Hurricanes to Make Landfall?

Hurricanes in Florida usually make landfall along the eastern coast of the state. One of the most notorious storms to hit the area was Hurricane Andrew in 1992. It is important to note that hurricanes are not limited to the eastern coast of Florida. Hurricanes can strike anywhere along the coast, including the Keys, as well as inland areas like Orlando. Hurricanes can also travel further north along the Atlantic Coast, as far as Georgia and South Carolina. No matter where you live in Florida, it is important to be aware of potential storm paths and pay attention to hurricane forecasts. By keeping up with news and updates from local government officials, you can stay informed and take steps to protect yourself and your family in the event of a hurricane.

Why Do Hurricanes Form?

Hurricanes are large, destructive tropical systems that can cause serious damage and loss of life. But why do these powerful storms form? The answer lies in a few key factors: warm ocean water, atmospheric moisture, light winds, and an unstable air mass. When warm water evaporates from the surface of the ocean, it rises into the atmosphere as moist air. This air then cools as it rises and condenses, forming clouds. As more and more of this moist air rises, it creates an area of low pressure. The surrounding areas of high pressure are then drawn in to fill the gap, creating wind. As the air moves inward toward the center of the storm, the pressure decreases further. This creates an even stronger wind. The winds spiral around the center of the storm, creating an organized rotation called a cyclone. As the storm continues to move over warm ocean waters, it can draw more energy from the water and continues to grow in strength. When conditions are just right, this process can create a hurricane. It is important to understand why hurricanes form so we can be better prepared for them when they do occur. Knowing what to expect can help people stay safe and protect their homes from potential damage.

Understanding the who, what, when, where, and why of hurricanes is key to knowing how to safely navigate this season as a Florida resident. Whether you’ve just moved to this state or have lived here your entire life, our team at Elite is always here to help you confidently weather the storm with solutions that will keep you powered up and informed. Call our team today for more information!

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Three Signs That an Electrical Panel Needs to Be Inspected by Professionals

Is Your Electrical Panel Failing?

Electrical panels are essential for ensuring the safety of a home. They provide the necessary protection against fire, damaged electronics, and other hazards associated with electricity. A well-functioning panel is also important for the optimization of electricity usage in the home.

Electrical panels can help to prevent damage to electrical devices and the home by tripping the circuit breakers when the circuit is overloaded. However, a malfunctioning electrical panel cannot provide the same protection, so it’s important to get them serviced by an electrician. This blog will share some signs of a faulty electrical panel in need of repair or replacement to alert homeowners when to call professionals.

Dim or Flickering Lights

If homeowners notice that some of the lights in their homes are flickering or not as bright as they used to be, it is important to assess what could be causing the issue. In many cases, this problem can be solved by replacing an old lightbulb with a new one. However, it could also indicate a larger problem within the electrical system of the home.

If the flicking and decreased brightness are happening for multiple different lights in the home or if the lights begin to dim or flicker when another appliance is plugged in, it could be a sign of an issue with the electrical panel. This problem can occur when too many appliances are drawing power from the same circuit, meaning that certain appliances may be using more power than can be provided by the circuit it’s on.

Burning Smell

When homeowners smell something burning, particularly if it comes from the electrical panel, it is never a good sign. This usually means that the electrical panel is overheating, arcing, or experiencing an electrical malfunction, most likely caused by overloaded circuits, old components, or defective wiring.

In cases like this, the circuit breaker may have to be replaced since it can no longer handle the power requirements of the home, and allowing it to continue as is, could lead to serious problems, like the possibility of an electrical fire. A burning smell should be taken as an urgent warning that the existing panel is no longer safe and that a qualified electrician must be called in to handle the problem immediately.

The Electrical Panel is Old and Outdated

While homeowners may be happy to know that a standard electrical panel is built to last, most professionals agree that 25 to 40 years is the average lifespan of a panel before it becomes old enough to be considered obsolete and should be replaced to adhere to current safety standards. Electrical panels should also be inspected as a part of routine electrical system inspections to ensure it’s in good condition.

Most homeowners probably won’t have to upgrade their electrical panel more than a handful of times in their lives, but for those who are moving into older homes, it is imperative to check the age of the panel. If a home is over 20 years old and has an original electrical panel that has never been replaced, it typically needs to be upgraded. Doing so will give homeowners the peace of mind of knowing that their homes are powered safely by an electrical panel that can handle their modern appliances.

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air has over three decades of experience serving Port St. Lucie, FL, and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, emergency service, and personal attention. Call them today for electrical panel repair and installation services in Port St. Lucie, FL.