One has to ask: are your outlets warm when you put a hand on them? With the cooler nights and shorter days coming, is the wiring in your house up to it? And do you have any idea when an electrical matter is best left to a pro rather than trying to figure it out on your own?
Such questions are pertinent as fall makes itself known in the North San Joaquin Valley. For 25 years The Electric Company has been putting the safety of homes first in Stockton, Tracy, Modesto, Turlock, Manteca, Lodi and Sacramento. Should you have any concerns, our licensed and insured staff can be reached at (209) 396-4618.
With the onset of the season there is a greater dependence on heaters and indoor lighting as well as other appliances. That puts more demand on your system and with it some risk. But give it a bit of consideration now and you will be none the wiser for any trouble down the road.
Why Fall Is the Right Time for an Electrical Check-Up
For most in the Central Valley an air conditioner is what bears the brunt of the load in summer. Yet when the temperature falls, heating systems and space heaters take over, along with interior lights being on for longer. A weak spot in the electrical system that was not apparent in the heat may show itself.
It is all too common for a homeowner to find out about an issue once something has gone awry. You might put up with a light that flickers or a breaker that trips. In truth they are but small indications of what could be a bigger problem behind the walls.
Simple Electrical Safety Steps
You can do a number of things to see to it your home is safe this fall:
- Put in new batteries where necessary and test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors
- Look over power strips and extension cords for any fraying or damage
- Do not put a space heater on the same circuit as an appliance with a high draw
- Make sure flammable objects are kept at a distance from heat
- Cords should not be run under carpeting or rugs to let heat accumulate
- See if there is any warmth, a burning smell or discoloration around switch plates and outlets
Call a professional and discontinue use of the device or outlet if anything seems amiss.
When to Call in a Professional
There are electrical problems you should not be dealing with yourself; to guess at the cause is to put your family and home in harm’s way. An electrician should be contacted for:
- Breakers that will trip without explanation
- Any sparking, hot or buzzing switches and outlets
- Appliances causing the lights to dim or flicker
- A burning smell you cannot account for
- Ungrounded two-prong outlets in an older home
Often these are the makings of an overloaded circuit or old wiring. Outdated panels are found in many an older Central Valley home, more so than one might think. We at The Electric Company can have a look and put forward a solution.
Getting Your Home in Order for the Holidays
The holidays are not far off and with them a spike in electrical usage. Between guests and the extra kitchen appliances and decorative lighting, your system will be under strain. Consider how much your circuits can take before you put in a second oven or string up some lights.
Pay particular heed to outdoor lighting. Exterior outlets must have ground fault circuit interrupters and you should only employ cords and fixtures made for the outdoors. If you are in any doubt as to their safety we will be glad to help. Sensitive electronics and appliances also benefit from proper surge protection as the season’s demands increase.
Homeowners have good reason to trust us
We are a local operation in the North San Joaquin Valley with over a quarter century of service. Our work is done right and safely, as you would expect from a fully licensed and insured company. We are BBB accredited with an A rating and stand behind a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
To put our services within reach we have financing via Wisetack and extend a 5% discount to seniors and those in the military for any service put on the books. Our office is at your disposal Monday to Friday between 7:00am and 6:00pm.
Make of fall the time to ensure your system is in order for the months to come. Give us a ring at (209) 396-4618 to set up an appointment with The Electric Company.
