The third prong on a typical electrical appliance plug provides an extra measure of safety against electrical shock. Two-prong outlets, often found in older homes, may not be grounded adequately and should be upgraded.

The National Electric Code requires that GFCI outlets – with Test and Reset buttons – are installed in areas of the home where water may be present, such as your kitchen, baths, utility room, garage and outside locations.

If the wiring for your light switches or outlets is wrapped in cloth sheathing or bits of black rubber, you need to upgrade your home wiring to keep your family safe.

Appliances such as air conditioners, clothes dryers, refrigerators and furnaces use extra electricity when they start. This may be more than just a nuisance. An overloaded system can damage sensitive equipment.

Too much electrical current causes breakers to trip or fuses to melt. Don’t ignore this warning. Have your electrical system inspected and upgraded.

If you need to use extension cords on a regular basis, you probably need more outlets in your home. When you use extension cords to make up for a lack of outlets, you run the risk of placing too much demand on your electrical system. Extension cords placed under rugs or furniture may also be a safety hazard.

Rust on your main electrical service panel indicates a moisture problem, which can lead to further problems.

This may be an indication of a loose or deteriorating electrical connection, which could lead to shock or fire.

If your home is more than 25 years old, you should have your system inspected and if necessary, brought up to electrical code standards.

December is right around the corner and it looks like the temperature will continue to keep dropping. During this time of the year we all try to make our homes as comfortable as possible. Throwing on extra layers can help, but turning up the furnace is not always the best answer. If you want an efficient way to heat your home while also adding to the aesthetics of your room, an electrical fireplace is your best option.

Not only are electric fireplaces more eco-friendly than conventional gas and wood burning fireplaces, they are more economical. With their large heat output they cost just a fraction than what it costs to turn up the thermostat in your home. Additionally, electrical fireplaces require far less maintenance. You don’t need to worry about hauling around heavy wood or cleaning your chimney. With an electrical fireplace you just need to dust and clean the glass from time to time.

Because there is no real flame in an electrical fireplace, there is no need to worry about having the right connections to install the fireplace. You can install one virtually anywhere in your home. With the help of an expert electrician, we can run the electrical lines that are needed and make sure that everything is hooked up correctly.

The great thing about electrical fireplaces is that they come in a wide range of styles and designs. There are several types of electrical fireplaces:

The number of solar panels being used in a residential setting has grown tremendously over the last several years. This renewable energy source, also known as solar photovoltaic panels, are a great way to help lower your monthly electric bills while providing you with clean, renewable energy every day. Furthermore, installing solar panels on your roof is a great way to add value to your home. With the different purchasing options, and tax credits currently available, it is easier than ever to install solar panels on your home or business.

Here are a few steps to help you get ready to install your panels: