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Year: 2021

How to Select the Best Electrical Wiring for Your Home

Posted on October 13, 2021December 13, 2021 By Rachelle
Electrical

Electrical wiring is essential in any home that uses electrical appliances. Some wiring runs visibly alongside the appliances while other wires are embedded within the walls. There are safety standards that affect how these components are manufactured, installed, and repaired in homes. Review these common tips on how to select the best type of home wiring.

Size

The size of a wire is crucial to its proper installation. The sizing is determined by the diameter of its metal conductor, according to the American Wire Gauge system. The right size affects its maximum capacity to carry electrical currents safely and effectively. So when you consider size, review the wire’s gauge that determines its level of capacity and longevity.

Cabling

Select the correct type of cable for your interior wiring. The use of non-metallic (NM) cables is the standard in protection. The design involves wrapping sheathed cables around multiple wires. This type of cable is found in light switches, power outlets, and appliances. Learn more about NM cabling to select the correct specifications for your electrical installation or remodeling.

Labels

Review the labels found on most electrical wires and cables. Look for color codes that describe the wire size and amperage rating. By reviewing the outer sheaths, learn more about the wire types, sizes, and materials in addition to the number of wires inside and the type of insulation. Reviewing the labels first makes your wiring project much easier and safer with fewer errors.

Outdoor Wiring

Install a direct burial cable to protect your outdoor wiring. This cabling includes wires that are connected to pools, hot tubs, or outdoor lights. Standard cables work for indoor settings that are relatively dry and protected by walls and flooring. However, outdoor wires are exposed to the weather and need the protection of direct burial cables. The vinyl covering protects the wires from rain, mud, puddles of water, and other forms of moisture.

Select the best wiring for your next electrical repair, maintenance, or remodeling project. Review the different types and sizes of wires and cables that determine amperage, voltage, and electric current capability. Know that some jobs are better left to licensed electricians, such as wiring panels or installing a disconnect system, but others can be learned and performed on your own. For the best results, obtain a good amount of information about wiring, such as how to select it, where to buy it and how to install it correctly.

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How Does Carpet Save Energy?

Posted on July 1, 2021 By Rachelle
Energy Efficiency

As fuel and energy prices continue to rise, the cost of living continues to become higher. People are looking for energy-efficient ways to live which can save money. One of the ways to save energy is to use a carpet or a rug in your house. Carpets play a bigger role in providing a house with much-needed warmth. If you’re wondering how this is possible, this article is for you.

man and woman wearing white shirts laying on dark grey carpet

Insulation

Most homes save thousands of money on energy each month by using high-quality carpets in their homes for insulation purposes. Carpets act as a thermal barrier and retain heat from within the house; hence, saving money that would have been used for heating a room. You need to get yourself a carpet and save on energy and money. Carpet heats homes when the weather is cold. It feels good walking on a floor with carpets than wood.

Heat Retention

Clean carpets maintain heat availability for a longer duration. They significantly reduce the temperature of a house because they absorb and store heat within its fibers. Thermal mass in your home saves on utilities because you don’t have to work extra hard to maintain the temperature of your house. The temperature remains constant for a very long time.

House Warming

It takes you less money warming your house using carpet other than using other ways of heat production. Using a wood floor to produce energy is more expensive than buying a carpet. If you want to increase warmth in your room, mount carpets in the walls surrounding your house, this helps in trapping more heat, thus heating your house more. Cover a large area as possible, and you will enjoy its benefits. It is because of the reduction of heat in comparison to the area carpeted.

Thermal Comfort

Carpet helps in electrical power saving. When you warm a room, you promote thermal comfort and reduce greenhouse gas produced by other sources such as warming machines. Climate change has been broadly brought about by greenhouse gas from factories.

Carpet insulates heat to a room by itself. It doesn’t require anything to do its job. It does not make unnecessary noise, unlike electricity-generated gadgets that make any noise while warming.

Conclusion

Building an energy-efficient home is a good step towards renewable energy that can be used again and again. This is a tremendous environmental protection practice and a better living standard. Having a carpet helps you in cutting the cost of electric bills. Naturally produced energy means a healthier and cheaper standard of living.

Reasons to Upgrade Your Electrical Service Panel

Posted on April 16, 2021 By Rachelle
Electrical

 

volt meter being used to test an electrical service panel

The electrical fuses and circuit breakers that control the electricity in your home make up the electrical service panel. It will eventually need to be replaced. There are several signs that indicate it is time to upgrade your electrical service panel.

 

Faulty Wiring Issues

Faulty wiring can cause the lights to flicker or dimmer. This is more than just a nuisance, it is a hazard. It can lead to a fire if it is not fixed. If you have an older home, then it is even more likely to catch on fire due to a faulty wire. Other signs of faulty wiring include a persistent burning smell, discolored outlets, and a slight shock when you touch an appliance.

 

The Circuit Breaker Frequently Trips

Your circuit breaker is designed to prevent a fire. It will trip if it is overloaded. This can happen occasionally, and that is normal. However, if this is happening all of the time, then you may need a new electrical service panel. Your circuit is either overloaded or malfunctioning.

 

You Are Getting Ready to Install a New Appliance

You may not need a new electrical service panel if you are getting a new toaster or blender. However, if you are getting something like a refrigerator, hot tub, or air conditioner, then you need a new electrical service panel. Those things tend to use a lot of energy.

 

The Panel Is Warm When You Touch It

You should touch your electrical panel every now and then. If it is hot, then you may need a new one. The electrical service panel may be using too much heat.

 

You Are Using a Lot of Extension Cords And Power Strips

Power strips and extension cords are not meant to be used for long periods of time. They can be a fire hazard. That is why if you have a lot of extension cords and power strips, then it is time for you to get a new electrical service panel.

 

Your Home Is Old

You may not notice anything wrong with your electrical service panel. However, if you live in an older home, then you may need to get a new one. Your electrical service panel should be replaced if your home is older than 20 years old.

 

There Are Strange Smells

If you notice a strange smell coming from your electrical service panel, then it is time for you to get it replaced. This is a sign that something has melted or burned.

Pros and Cons of Installing Solar Panels for Your Home

Posted on March 8, 2021March 9, 2021 By Rachelle
Energy Efficiency

Solar panels have become increasingly common throughout the United States, especially in areas that experience sunny days throughout the majority of the year. If you are considering having these installed on your home, there is a lot to think about before signing the contract. By weighing the pros and cons, you can approach this investment with confidence knowing you’re making the right choice.

Solar panels on a single-family home

Pros:

 

  1. Savings

Most homes can save hundreds to thousands of dollars each year when they have fully functioning solar panels on their roof. In addition to this, most states offer tax breaks as incentives, which can help cover some of the costs of having these installed.

  1. Proven Technology

Solar panels have been around for many years, so you can invest knowing that the technology has passed the test of time. What’s even better is that since this technology is established and automatically works in your home, you don’t have to do anything to use it once the panels have been installed.

  1. Longevity

Although solar panels do not last forever, they still have a relatively long life of 25-30 years. This means they can more than pay for themselves in the time you have them, making the investment well worth it.

  1. Environmentally Friendly

With solar panels installed, you’ll be making your home more energy-efficient. This is great for the environment and can lower your overall carbon footprint.

 

Cons:

  1. Cost

For many homeowners, the initial cost to purchase solar panels is more than they can afford to spend at once. While paying in full is a great way to save on interest, it’s not the only option. There are many ways to make solar panels easier to afford with monthly payments.

  1. Limited Usage Times

Solar panels do not work at night not are they effective during bad weather when the sun isn’t shining. If you live in an area that isn’t particularly sunny, this may mean you won’t get a lot of use out of your panels throughout the year.

  1. Professional Installation Required

Although many projects can be done to your home yourself, installing solar panels is not one of them. In most states, a permit is required to install solar panels and extensive knowledge of the installation process is crucial. Without the right knowledge or experience, you could end up improperly installing these and not seeing optimal performance as a result.

4. Cleaning

Panels will need to be cleaned from time to time to keep their performance optimal. Dust and dirt will collect over time making them less efficient. Solar panel cleaning can be a daunting task for the average homeowner. You might need to hire a professional pressure washing service company to get the job done.

Investing in Solar Panels

Millions of homes throughout the country proudly display solar panels. However, for some, it’s simply not the right choice. If you’re not sure about whether or not you should make the investment, take the time to speak with a professional. They’ll help you learn more about what to expect out of these panels and the pros and cons you can expect.

 

The Best Energy-Saving Choices for Heating and Cooling Systems

Posted on January 18, 2021March 30, 2022 By Connor
Energy Efficiency

It’s natural to want to feel comfortable in your own home. To make this possible, reliable heating and cooling systems will be necessary. Opt for energy-efficient choices to save a little money on your bills as well as reduce your carbon footprint. Whether you are updating an existing system or starting over from scratch, one of these options is sure to be perfect for your home.

Geothermal Heat Pumps

The earth’s surface is dotted with “geothermal hot spots”. Geothermal gas pumps use this naturally-created heat to provide your home with effective heating. The demand for this renewable heat source has skyrocketed in recent years. While the demand for pumps goes up, the cost of them goes down. This makes it a practical value for homeowners. This style of heat is sustainable, diverting natural ground heat into your home.

Mini Split Heat Pumps

A mini-split heat pump system will use heat from the air to make your home an optimal temperature. While the split pump has been around for a while, the mini pump was debuted recently. They are known for featuring interior and exterior units that are smaller and more powerful than they ever were. Outside air is cycled through the outdoor unit into a coil. From this coil, the heat is distributed throughout your house.

https://youtu.be/QykwWs3L1W8

Residential Furnaces

 

After pumps, furnaces are the most efficient system that you can invest in. They are likely to be the most commonly used type of heating system. Studies suggest that up to 60 percent of American homes have a furnace. While older furnaces are not very efficient, the technology of this industry has introduced models that are perfect for today’s needs. A new furnace is designed to lower your utility bills while also lessening your impact on the environment.

 

Boilers

 

Though they are less common than they used to be, boilers are still very efficient ways to regulate the temperature in your home. As the name suggests, they heat up water which is then circulated around your house by a collection of tubes and radiators in various rooms. A boiler can work efficiently while making your home a comfortable place to be.

 

When you are looking into which is the best HVAC system for you, there are several things that you want to consider. First, you will want to get an accurate quote on how your utility bills will change. Next, you want to make sure that it is as efficient and environmentally friendly as you need it to be. With new heating and cooling systems, your home can be as comfortable as you desire. 

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