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Avoid the "Pinch" of Rising Electrical Bills This St. Patrick's Day

Three Simple Ways to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Planning a St. Patrick’s Day celebration is relatively easy. All anybody must do is deck themselves in green. And while going green on St. Patty’s Day may be one of the easiest things to do this month, the same should be true about greening up the home's electrical use and making it more eco-friendly.

If caring for the environment while saving on electricity costs is the name of the game, then there’s no need to look further than the following paragraphs. This blog will share three easy ways to go green and make the home more energy efficient on St. Patrick’s Day.

Maximize the Use of a Ceiling Fan

Homes that have ceiling fans installed have a leg up on savings. If used correctly, these fans can help HVAC systems run more efficiently by helping to circulate air in the room. It is easy to see how this works in the summertime. If the ceiling fan is set to turn counterclockwise, then it will create a downdraft, which is responsible for pushing cool air down and helping to augment the air conditioning system.

In the winter, homeowners can achieve a similar but opposite effect. Reversing the direction of the fan’s spin will create an updraft, which should suck the cool air up and push down warmer air, a simple yet effective way of reducing the burden of heating a room on a home’s heating system.

If Not in Use, Turn it Off

Anyone who has ever been hounded by their parents to turn the lights off after leaving a room may not want to hear this, but that is still considered sound advice when it comes to energy savings and bill reduction. Making this minor but conscious adjustment in daily life can have a compounding effect on the environment and a homeowner’s wallet.

Turning off lights and unplugging appliances that are not being used or opting to use natural light is cost-effective in more ways than one. This simple act can save money by reducing electric bills. It can also show up as savings in replacing light bulbs, which usually last longer and therefore do not need to be replaced as often if used prudently.

Make the Switch to LED Lights

Most light fixtures now run on LED lights for a good reason. LEDs are the most efficient lightbulbs available in the market today. LEDs are a whopping 75% more efficient than traditional incandescent light bulbs, while CFLs fare a bit better at 25% efficiency.

These percentages are eye-popping and may seem too good to be true, but with a lifespan of 25,000 hours, LED lights offer significant savings for homeowners without sacrificing quality. With incandescent bulbs only making it to 1,000 hours and CFLs up to 10,000, LED is the clear winner for its ability to produce more light on less power, making them the best choice for lighting up the modern home.

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air has over 30 years of experience serving Port St. Lucie, FL residents, and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, 24/7 emergency service, and on-time arrivals. Call them today for indoor lighting or ceiling fan installation and repair in Port St. Lucie, FL.

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How to Tell When It's Time to Replace Your Electrical Panel

If you own a home, you know how important it is to have a reliable electrical system. Your electrical panel is the central hub of your electrical system and is responsible for distributing electricity throughout your home. It’s vital that your electrical panel is up-to-date and functioning correctly to ensure the safety of your family and your home. However, it can be difficult to determine when it’s time to replace your electrical panel. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with useful tips and information to help you identify when it’s time.

Flickering or Dimming Lights

If your lights are flickering or dimming, it could be a sign that your electrical panel needs to be replaced. Flickering lights can be caused by several issues, including a faulty breaker, overloaded circuits, and outdated wiring. If you have multiple light bulbs flickering in the same room, this is a sure sign that your electrical panel needs to be upgraded. Flickering and dimming lights could also indicate an overloaded circuit, which is when too many appliances or electronics are plugged into one outlet. This can cause the power to fluctuate and the lights to flicker. If this is the case, you will need to move some of your electronics to other outlets in order to prevent further damage to your electrical system.

Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips

If your circuit breaker is tripping frequently, this could be a sign that it's time to replace your electrical panel. Circuit breakers are designed to protect your home’s electrical system from overloads and shorts. If your circuit breaker trips repeatedly, it could be because it is overburdened, or you have a wiring issue in the home. This can cause a serious safety hazard, as it could lead to electrical fires. When you have a circuit breaker that is tripping too often, you should investigate why it is happening. Is there an appliance on the same circuit that is drawing too much power? Are the other devices in the house properly grounded and connected to the circuit breaker? If any of these questions cannot be answered or fixed, then you should consider replacing the electrical panel altogether. A professional electrician will be able to help you determine if this is the best solution.

Discoloration on Outlets or Switches

One of the most obvious signs that your electrical panel needs to be replaced is discoloration on outlets or switches. If you notice any darkening, scorch marks, or even burning smells near outlets or switches, this could be a sign that there is an electrical overload in the system. In these cases, it’s important to shut off power to the affected area immediately and call an electrician to inspect and replace the panel if necessary. This can prevent a potentially hazardous situation from occurring. It’s important to note that some discoloration may be natural over time, as wires and other parts in the panel age and wear down. If this is the case, your electrician should be able to identify it and explain why it’s not an issue. However, if there is any additional discoloration that appears suspicious, it’s best to err on the side of caution and have it checked out right away.

Humming or Crackling Sounds From the Electrical Panel

If you ever hear a humming or crackling noise coming from your electrical panel, it could be a sign that it’s time to replace your electrical panel. This could mean that something is wrong with the wiring or connections inside the panel, and it’s not able to properly support the load it was designed for. Humming can be caused by improper wiring, loose connections, or corrosion within the panel while crackling noises are usually a result of loose connections or high levels of current running through the system. If you notice these sounds when you turn on an appliance or flip a light switch, you should have a licensed electrician inspect the panel right away. In many cases, an old or outdated panel may need to be replaced in order to ensure your home’s electrical system is safe and functioning correctly.

Burning Smells Near the Electrical Panel

If you notice a burning smell near your electrical panel, it could be a sign that it is time to replace it. This could be caused by either overloaded circuits or faulty wiring. If the burning smell is accompanied by sparking or smoke, it is an indication of a dangerous situation and you should turn off the power immediately. When the power is off, it is important to inspect the electrical panel carefully for signs of overheating, such as discoloration on the metal panels or wires, melted insulation, charred components, or even burned plastic. It is always best to contact a professional electrician in this situation, as they will be able to assess the situation and advise on the best course of action. In some cases, it may be possible to repair the existing electrical panel and avoid replacing it altogether. However, if the damage is extensive, it is likely to be more cost-effective in the long run to replace the entire panel. This will ensure that all of the wiring and components are up to current safety standards and reduce the risk of fire or other hazardous situations in the future.

Older Homes With Outdated Electrical Panels

If you live in an older home, it is likely that your electrical panel is outdated. Electrical panels that were installed before the mid-1990s may not be able to handle the power demands of today's homes. Outdated electrical panels can be dangerous, as they are more prone to overload and fire. If your home was built before the mid-1990s, you should strongly consider replacing the electrical panel. When replacing an old electrical panel, it is important to make sure that the new one is designed to meet the current power needs of your home. It is also important to ensure that the new panel is installed by a qualified electrician who is familiar with the specific requirements of your home. Installing an old panel can be dangerous and can potentially result in fire or electrical shock. If you are unsure whether your home has an outdated electrical panel, contact a qualified electrician who can inspect your system and provide advice on whether or not you should replace it. Replacing your electrical panel is an investment in your safety and should not be taken lightly. By following the advice of a qualified professional, you can ensure that your home is safe and up to code.

It’s important to recognize the signs that it’s time to replace your electrical panel. From flickering or dimming lights to frequent breaker trips, these telltale signs can help you identify potential problems with your electrical system. If you think it’s time to upgrade your electrical panel, make sure you get a qualified electrician to do the job safely and correctly. At Elite, our team has the expertise to identify if an electrical panel replacement is necessary and the experience to install it quickly and correctly. Contact Elite today for an assessment and free estimate of your next electrical project!

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Electrical Basics for Back to School: A Guide

The Essentials of Home Electricity

Having an electrical grid is part of what defines the US as a first-world country. These days, it is essential, especially as the demand for “work from home” increases. People cannot function without it, yet it is a mystery to most.

Everyone knows that the light comes on when they flip a switch, but they may not know why. Electricity is energy produced by charged particles. In a home, energy moves through wires, and switches and plugs are used to create a circuit or a continuously flowing circle of connection for the electricity.

Defining the Parts of the Electrical System

While most people can recognize a switch or an outlet, they may not be aware of some of the other parts of the electrical system in the home. Below is a breakdown of main major components of a residential electrical setup:

Electric Meter: The electric meter is the mechanism that measures the amount of electricity that goes through it. The electrical wires from the municipal power grid (underground or overhead) connect to the house through the electric meter.
Disconnect Switch: This switch cuts power to the entire home. This switch is usually part of the breaker panel but can be separate from it.
Breaker Panel: The home’s electrical panel is where the electricity from the supply lines is divided into various circuits throughout the house. Switches control each circuit and are often labeled by room or by the appliance they service.
Outlets: Also called receptacles, electrical outlets have hot and neutral wires. When something is plugged in, the electricity passes from the hot wire through the machine (for example, a hairdryer), turning it on. The electricity then flows through the plug’s second wire and back into the neutral wire of the outlet, thus creating a circuit.
Switches: Switches are used to interrupt a circuit from the breaker box to (usually) a light of some kind. Switches come in many different styles, including dimmers and knob switches.

Warning Signs of Electrical Problems

If a homeowner is concerned about the age of wiring or electrical problems in general, there are a few indicators to look for that demonstrate a problem with the electrical wiring. If wiring is older, it may not be up to code, as the rules for electrical repairs change as technology improves. Having a consultation with an electrician about these concerns is never a bad idea.

If a homeowner notices any of these things, they should seek out a professional sooner rather than later:

A sparking outlet
A burning plastic smell
Flickering lights
Fading lights

Be Safe and Call an Electrician About Electrical Repairs

Electricity is a fantastic tool, but it can be very dangerous, especially to someone who is not trained. Electrical safety is paramount in preventing the worst, including fire and electric shock. A homeowner should not do electrical work because they don’t have the proper training. Hiring a professional electrician costs less than someone’s life.

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

After serving Port St. Lucie, FL, and the surrounding communities for more than 30 years, Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air has been named best of HomeAdvisor in 2021 and is accredited by the BBB and NATE. They offer same-day service, courteous technicians, and straightforward pricing. Call them today for electrical services in Port St. Lucie, FL.

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Time To Go Back to School With Electrical 101

Learning Electrical System Basics

The end of summer is nearing, which means many kids, teenagers, and college students around the country are heading back to school. And what better time to celebrate the return to school than having a personalized mini-class on the basics of electrical systems! Sure, it might sound a bit dry, but having a thorough understanding of Electrical 101 can be a huge help down the road.

Homeowners and their families should learn about the primary components of their electrical systems, how they function, and things to watch out for. They should also understand why hiring professionals is always the way to go when it comes to caring for their electrical systems. Continue reading for all of this information and more!

Wiring and Outlets

Let’s begin with a simple overview of wiring and outlets, as these are some of the most important components of home electrical systems. Electrical wiring involves cabling that connects with various devices like sockets, switches, distribution boards, and more. Electrical outlets are openings that connect to a power source via these wires.

There are typically extensive wires and outlets that run throughout the home, as many things depend on electricity (just think of how many lights can be found in a single room!). The electrical wiring and outlets may require various professional services, such as installation, faulty wiring, physical damage to any part of the electrical system, and more.

Outdoor Wiring and Lighting

Outdoor wiring and lighting are particularly important to understand, as outdoor parts of the system can be very different from indoor parts. At a base level, the types of lights used outdoors must be able to withstand temperature changes that many indoor lights do not need. After all, the temperature swings indoors are usually just a few degrees, compared to dozens of degrees outdoors!

In addition, there are electrical services catered specifically toward outdoor needs, such as services for outdoor lighting, pool wiring, and more. Outdoor electrical work generally has more variability. For example, the wiring in a pool needs to be such that there is no risk of electrocution since water is highly conductive. While homeowners can try to do outdoor lighting work on their own (or indoors too, for that matter), it is always best to seek professional help.

Be Sure To Hire a Professional

At the end of the day, electrical work should always be taken care of by an experienced, trained professional. Amateur electrical work is extremely dangerous, and it can be potentially lethal as well, depending on the situation. Electrocution is a significant danger that can occur if the electrical system is not handled properly.

Even if someone does not get electrocuted, amateur work can result in faulty wiring and other rookie mistakes that could prove hazardous to the entire home and everyone inside. Hiring professionals is smart, as many have years or even decades of experience in responsibly, efficiently, and safely handling home electrical systems.

About Elite Electric & Air

Elite Electric & Air of Port St. Lucie, FL, is a full-service electrical company that believes in providing top-notch services at reasonable prices. Their team of expert electricians provides tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of each and every one of their customers. Call them for 24/7 electrical help in Port St. Lucie today!

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It's May Which Means It's Electrical Safety Month!

Different Ways To Practice Electrical Safety This Month and Always!

Electricity has come to be one of the standard systems inside every modern home. At the beginning of its time, people had electricity installed into their homes but were still too afraid to use it, so they would still rely on candles! Today, society has grown so accustomed to it that it’s easier to forget just how dangerous electrical systems can be. That’s why there is an entire month dedicated to electrical safety! It is crucial that homeowners are especially aware of how to maintain an electrically safe home in today’s world. There are different devices and protection that can be installed into the home. Homeowners should also be aware of several warning signs that could spell out danger.

The Different Electrical Safety Devices

There are four standard electrical safety devices that should be installed in every home today.

These four devices include:

Circuit Breakers
Fuses
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI)
Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCI)

All of these devices work in different areas of the home to prevent an electrical overload. Overload can happen in the event of a power outage or if too many things are plugged in at once. If it weren’t for electrical safety devices such as these, homeowners would have to be ten times more cautious and aware of what electronics they use, how many they use at once, and even when a storm is expected!

Common Warning Signs of An Overloaded Electrical System

The main warning sign that an electrical system is overloaded is when a fuse pops. This is the universal sign that the system is overloaded with too many electronics plugged in at once and pulling too much energy from the electrical panel. That said, there are other signs as well.

Common warning signs of an overloaded electrical system include:

Fuses and circuit breakers that are tripped often
Flickering or dimming lights
Crackling or buzzing receptacles
The wall is hot around the receptacles
A burning smell coming from the receptacles

Another common sign is when homeowners turn off an appliance or light switch and feel a mild shock.

Information On Surge Protection and Why it’s Important

Another critical electrical safety tip is to have surge protectors in the home. Surge protectors allow homeowners to plug in multiple things at once without overloading a receptacle or the system itself. They work by alternating the current circuits to prevent voltage spikes that cause problems.

The main benefit of surge protectors and why they are so important is because they protect devices from surprise peaks in electricity. These power surges can damage devices and appliances, but with a surge protector, this doesn’t happen.

Elite Electric & Air Keeps Their Customers Safe

When it comes to electricity, there is no time to mess around. The Port St. Lucie electrical professionals at Elite Electric & Air work 24/7 to provide excellent, efficient, and safe service for their customers. They’ve been in the industry for more than 30 years, so homeowners can trust that they will get the job done right no matter what. It’s time to call today!

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When Does Your Electrical Panel Need Repair?

Signs of a Damaged Electrical Panel

Every home is equipped with an electrical panel. Just like your plumbing, it’s an essential part of your house and, without it, your home would not be able to function. The electrical panel serves to route all electricity flowing to your home safely to the various devices that are connected to the electrical grid, including your washer and dryer, lights, and HVAC.

If your electrical panel stops functioning properly, you are not only at risk for appliances malfunctioning, but you could be at risk of starting a fire, as well. The following tips will help you spot when it’s time to repair your electrical panel.

Old Electrical Panels Are a Risk

As with any part of your home, the electrical panel has a lifespan. Most can function anywhere from twenty-five to forty years. After that point, they’ll start showing signs of wear and tear, and their age will get the best of them. Once they get past the forty-year mark, they’ll need replacing entirely to maintain maximum safety for your home and those who live with you.

What are the signs that your panel is getting old?

Switches are too loose or too tight when flipped.
The breaker trips unaccountably.
There are visible signs of rust.

If any of these signs are present, it’s important to have a professional electrician examine your panel for needed repairs or replacement. Any of the above issues can cause significant problems and should not be left unrepaired.

Don’t Ignore a Burning Smell

A serious sign that your electric panel needs to be inspected and likely replaced is if you ever experience a burning smell coming from the unit. Burning smells coming from your unit are typically due to wires shorting out. When wires begin to short out, they not only cause your appliances and lighting to stop working properly, but they pose a significant hazard.

When wires short out, they are burning themselves and can easily start a fire within the walls of your home. Once you have a fire in your walls, it can be too late to save your home from significant damage.

If you smell any burning, shut off the electrical panel immediately and call an electrical technician to inspect your unit. Short-circuiting wires always result in needing to be replaced before the electricity can be turned back on.

Flickering or Dimming Lights Could Indicate Panel Issues

If you’ve ever experienced a flickering or dimming lightbulb, you might have thought it was the lightbulb itself that was going out. But if you changed your bulb and you still had it happen, then it’s not the lightbulb that is your problem, but the electric panel.

When the panel starts to wear out or wires become damaged, they aren’t able to conduct electricity as well as they used to. The reason why you have ebbing lights is that the electricity is not flowing consistently to your appliance.

When you experience this and you’ve determined that it’s not the lightbulb, it’s vital to call a professional electrician so the problem can get fixed. Not only will you save money by not replacing endless lightbulbs, but you can also save yourself from a potentially hazardous situation if your panel stops working properly altogether.

Professional, Dependable Electricians

Elite Electric & Air has provided HVAC and electrical services in Port St Lucie, FL, for over thirty years. They offer 24/7 emergency services, 100% satisfaction guarantee, on-time arrivals, and upfront pricing. You’ll receive personalized attention, professional solutions, and a job done right the first time.