If you use a standby generator for your home or business, you know how valuable it can be during a big storm or any time when your power supply is uncertain. We tend to get a lot of big summer and winter storms in the DC Metro area, so having a standby generator is crucial for things like keeping food safe and keeping lights on. So if you want to make sure your generator works smoothly when you need it to, it’s important that you keep it well maintained!

After a major storm knocks out power, your generator could be running 24/7 for a few days. To prepare for times like this, here are some ways you can keep your generator in good shape:

In addition to these checks you can do on your own, it’s important to have your standby generator inspected by an authorized sales and service dealer. Remember—many home and commercial generators have a limited warranty and require service from a licensed technician in order to make sure the warranty can be honored.

Standby generator repair and maintenance requirements may vary significantly based on the type of generator you are dealing with. For instance, commercial generators are primarily the alternator type of generators. Alternators have stationary windings (which create the alternating current) and rotating windings (which create direct current). Since rotating windings usually go through a significant amount of friction when working, regular tune ups and electrical repair will see them needing to be replaced every once in a while.

Kolb Electric is one of the largest Generac generator dealers in the Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC are and we are fully certified to service Generac generators. This winter, prepare your home for any major snow storms by calling Kolb Electric for generator service today!

Electric cars are on their way to surpassing your fuel guzzler this year. Check out the latest line-up of electric cars paving the way for 2015. From best-value to the best sports car, electric vehicles are now available for every driver.

At $26,000, the Chevrolet Spark Electric Vehicle (EV) offers a great value in the lower price range. With greater horsepower and torque, this EV provides better steering and speed topping off at 90 mph. When charged, Chevrolet Spark’s battery power results in 82 miles. A great choice for first-time buyers, the Chevrolet Spark EV is a solid buy.

If you need a car for long distance driving, The Tesla Model S goes the distance. In a single battery charge, this EV can drive up to 270 miles. This impressive mileage classifies the Tesla S as the longest driving electric car up to date. At $75,000 the Tesla S is considered the best EV up to date. With the Tesla S, you can finally take that road trip without the fear of battery life.

Perfect for short distance driving, the Fiat 500E is a compact choice for your electric car. Sold for $32,000, the Fiat 500E is suitable for stop-and-go traffic due to its agility. It’s also great for parallel parking, being able to maneuver rapidly into tight spaces. The Fiat 500E is a top pick for those who drive primarily to and from work.

The BMW i3 is unique because of its carbon-fiber make-up rather than the conventional steel. The use of carbon-fiber material makes the BMW i3 lighter and faster, driving at zero to 60 in seven seconds. This EV also contains a range extender, pushing the amount of miles driven from a single charge from 81 miles to 150 miles. It is extremely energy efficient and overall the most innovative of electric cars. BMW i3’s are sold for $43,000, a reasonable price for its quality and worth.

One of the most spacious electric vehicles, the Toyota Rav4 can fit a family of five and has a large trunk to fit all of your gear. This SUV also delivers an impressive range of 103 miles per charge and a horsepower of 154. Relatively fast with a zero to 60 in 7.6 seconds, the Toyota Rav4 is a good comparison to the Tesla S but with the advantage of the much cheaper price of $50,000.

Luxury cars aren’t exclusive to gas-powered vehicles. The BMW i8 is the winner of the 2015 World Green Car Award. Cruising at a top speed of 155 mph and reaching 60 miles in about 4.2 seconds, the BMW i8 is an impressive luxury hybrid vehicle selling at an estimated $137,000. The sleek design, shark grille, and swan doors are sure to turn heads.

The Tesla Roadster is a gorgeous driving machine with 400 miles of driving range. Labeled as the Tesla 3.0, it is the highest quality of Tesla electric cars. Improvements include the battery, which has 30% more energy than previous models. The tires have also been upgraded, resulting in excellent traction for cruising down the highway in style.

A cheaper option for electric cars is the Ford Focus Electric. It is sold for less than $30,000 and boasts 76 miles after fully charging. With a faster charging battery of 3.5 hours and newer gadgets and tech, this stylish electric vehicle is another popular choice for electric car buyers.

On the other hand, a more expensive choice is the Volkswagen e-Golf. Although the Volkswagen e-Golf sells for $35,000, it stands out as the third most efficient EV in the United States. It also gets drivers’ attention for handling like a gas-powered car due to its steady power.

Toyota is leading the way for fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV). The main difference between electric cars and fuel cell electric cars is the source of energy. FCEV’s are charged with hydrogen rather than a battery. This change allows FCEV’s to drive for 300 miles on a single five minute charge alone. Hydrogen charging stations have made a rise across the nation, and there is even one located at UT.

Anticipation is on the rise for the upgraded Tesla Model X along with new EV and hybrid models for Audi and Cadillac. With the majority of car brands implementing electric cars, hybrid vehicles, or FCEV’s into their line-up, owning an EV is more accessible than ever. With a wide price range from the every day to going the distance, electric cars are most definitely in the forefront of transportation today.

To power your car find a charging station near you. To power your home request an appointment today from Bryant Electric Service.

Choosing a company to install solar panels is a bit of a tricky task. There are many choices and they’re not all reputable. We’ve created this quick guide to walk you through the process of choosing the correct solar installers.

You can cut to the chase and find the best rates and incentives by contacting the Electric Connection. We’ve help Southern California area residents get the best deals on solar panel installation and make the most of the various rebate packages available to them. If you want a quick quote and understanding of the process and how you might install solar panels at no cost, give us a call today.