Don’t Ignore These Signs That You Need An Emergency Electrician
There are some situations in which you should not try to make changes to your home’s electrical system but instead call an emergency electrician. Electricity is a powerful and necessary utility in your home, but it can also cause life-threatening outcomes if you do not take care of it properly. For that reason, it is critical to know what are some signs that your home needs emergency repair help. Getting that help could help prevent fires and dangerous electrical shocks that could harm your family.
When You Need a Professional
In most situations, you should turn to a professional for all types of electrical work in your home. Even if you are installing a new fixture, it is best to let a professional do this work for you if you do not have any experience working with electrical systems.
There are definitely some instances in life in which an emergency electrician is a critical investment, though. If these signs are happening at your home, it is time to take action now.
Your Circuit Breakers Are Tripping Often
A circuit breaker will trip or turn from one position to the next when there is a surge of power to it. This is a type of security feature that helps to minimize the risk of overloading the system. However, when this happens often, it is a problem you should not ignore. It can be due to overloaded circuits that, eventually, can cause a high level of risk of fire over time. That tripping may be a key reason to call in a professional to find out what is going on and, as needed, to adjust your system to accommodate the need for more electricity.
The Power Outlets Feel Warm to the Touch
Another potential concern has to do with the power outlets. If you happen to brush your hand across one and it feels warm, that could be an indication that the switches or sockets are not working the way they should. Any heat can be worrisome and an indicator of a high risk of a fire occurring. Heat is a precursor to fires. When there is too much power being pulled or demanded, that is going to increase the heat produced, and as that happens, there is an increased risk of a fire occurring.
You Smell Smoke
Smoke is an indication of a pending fire. If you smell smoke coming from electrical outlets, the breaker box, or behind walls, leave the home and call in emergency fire professionals. They will be able to detect what’s occurring. This is also an indication that you need to have your electrical system inspected. That will help to ensure that you can be confident that there are no areas of fire risk present.
Do not plug anything into an outlet that smells of smoke. Do not use any power if you have any scent of burning present. It is critical to turn to an electrician to ensure your home is safe before allowing your family to come back in. An emergency electrician can provide you with the peace of mind you need in this situation.
Sparking at Appliances
If you plug in the coffee pot and get a spark out of it, that’s a key indicator of a significant problem you cannot ignore. Any time a spark occurs, that is reason for concern. Most of the time, it does not mean imminent danger, but it does indicate the need for an electrician.
Arcing can occur when the conductors within a circuit come close to each other. This often creates a blue spark that moves from one connector to the other. The problem is that if the spark is significant and lasts more than a second, that’s a concern. If the spark is white or yellow, that is also a sign of a much more significant concern as it indicates the system may be overloaded. If it occurs to a newly installed outlet, that is a sign of improper installation.
Your Outlets Seem to Be Buzzing
Another potential concern occurs when you hear sounds coming from your electrical outlets. A buzzing may be hard to hear initially, but there are some situations in which they can be louder than normal. Any time you hear a buzzing sound coming from your electrical system, it is critical that you turn to an electrician to find out what is occurring. This is not normal, even in older homes. It may be a minimal problem, but other times it can be related to improper installation or the risk of an overload occurring.
There’s Been a Fire
Even if the fire had nothing to do with the electrical system, if you’ve had one, have an electrician inspect the electrical components in the area to ensure that you are not facing a significant fire risk. This should be done before you move back into the home or start using any appliances or outlets within that space.
You Have Had Water Damage
Another instance in which you should have a professional inspection occurs when there is any type of water damage to your home. In nearly all situations, your electrical system will be impacted because of the water and flooding occurring. For that reason, you want to have a professional come to your home after all of the water is drained to ensure it is safe for you to use the electricity present. If you have standing water in your home, do not walk through it until you are sure the power to the home is turned off.
Find the Help You Need First
There are many situations where having the right professional help can support you in keeping your home and family safe. If you need an emergency electrician, contact Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach. Allow our team to answer your questions and get out to your home in no time, helping you to be sure that your home and family are safe.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
Find out our service area here.
Photo By Krakenimages.com at Shutterstock
Defining An Electrician And The Different Types Of Electrical Technicians
An electrician is recognized as the go-to person for all-matters electricity, installation, repairs, and maintenance. While electrical technicians understand the basics of handling electrical installations, these professionals can specialize in various niches. Understanding the different areas of specialization not only helps you when hiring an electrical technician but also gives insight to individuals pursuing a career in this field.
Before specializing in specific areas, these technicians learn the general trade under an apprenticeship from renowned firms such as Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach. After gaining experience, the technician is able to apply the skills in their niche. Here is a breakdown of specializations available for electricians.
Types of Electrical Technicians
Residential
Most homeowners have a residential electrical expert on their speed dial in case of an emergency. These experts are responsible for service and repair jobs in the home and are often called to diagnose electrical issues to find effective solutions. You can as well call them when you need to upgrade your electrical system to match your current needs.
Residential electrical technicians have a broad client base, covering clients in apartments, condos, and stand-alone homes. One can work alone in the residential sector or under an established firm. It’s advisable to check the technician’s credentials before letting them into your house. It’s wise to know who you are inviting into your home.
Commercial
These electrical experts have the same training as their residential counterparts. The only difference is that commercial technicians focus on electrical installation and maintenance of commercial buildings. This refers to buildings with heavy human traffic, for example, schools, office buildings, factories, and hospitals.
Electrical systems in commercial buildings are relatively complex compared to residential buildings and hence require specialized tools and techniques. These technicians are specially trained to meet the demands of working with these complex systems, making them more knowledgeable compared to residential technicians.
Working in areas with heavy traffic means the electric technician needs to observe safety measures to ensure public safety. Commercial electronic technicians not only work on wiring and connection to the grid, but also install heating and cooling systems and security systems.
Due to the complex nature of their work, commercial electronic technicians tend to charge more compared to other electricians. Commercial contracts are usually huge and can’t be handled by a single electronic technician. This team of technicians work under a registered company to meet the demand of the workload.
Industrial
An industrial electric technician can easily be confused with a commercial technician since both experts work on big projects. The difference is that industrial technicians take on large-scale contracts related to power plants, factories, and manufacturing facilities. These technicians often study how the big machines work, the amount of power needed, and specialized installations.
An industrial electric technician works with huge machines and complex electrical systems monitored using a computer system to ensure smooth operations. The technical know-how needed to install and manage industrial electrical installations exceeds those of commercial and residential technicians.
These technicians are often hired in-house to monitor the electrical system round the clock, unlike the previous types that are outsourced.
Installation, Repair, and Maintenance
These experts are also considered the most common electric technicians in the industry since they’re responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining electrical systems in commercial and residential buildings. Some services rendered include wiring your system for heating, cooling, and lighting.
When conducting maintenance and repairs, they ensure every system is operating efficiently. Depending on your agreement, they can make scheduled inspections of your system, run diagnostics, and repair electrical issues before they evolve into expensive repairs and replacements.
Installation and maintenance electrical technicians can split their services between industrial, residential, and commercial clients.
Construction
Many construction projects are dynamic, pooling professionals from various sectors. One of the key contractors during construction is an electrical technician. This professional is responsible for mapping the electrical system, fitting the wiring, and connecting to the electric grid.
Like their counterpart, these technicians have a vast knowledge of building codes to avoid litigation and promote the safety of those around the site and the client.
Automotive
These electric technicians are the most specialized in the field since they’re limited to motor vehicles. They’re responsible for all the electrical wiring and connections in your car. Today, cars are fitted with complex electrical systems and sensors to promote safety and ensure the car runs smoothly. Keeping track of these systems can be challenging hence the use of computer-based repair tools to troubleshoot and fix your car.
Before employing their trade, automotive electrical technicians undergo training to understand more about drivetrain systems, car diagnostics, and performance electronics to enhance car performance.
Marine
These electric technicians are the rarest and most specialized technicians in the field. They’re mostly trained in specialized schools, while others may learn on the job under the supervision of an experienced expert. During training, the technician is taught how to handle the electrical systems of marine vessels, including yachts, boats, and ships.
Highway Systems
These electrical technicians are the ones to thank for the various electrical components you use on the road. These professionals are responsible for traffic lights, signage, and traffic management systems. They play a vital role in installing and maintaining these features to prevent accidents and ensure traffic runs smoothly.
To work as a highway system electrical technician, you need specialized licenses and permits granting you the power to work on the road systems. You also need to have an in-depth understanding of the transportation system.
Working as an electrician comes with a lot of risks, including burns, electrocution, and even death. You need specialized training to handle electrical systems to ensure your safety and that of the public. The best way to get experience in this field is through working under renowned companies such as Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach.
At Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach, we boast a team of experienced professionals with a deep understanding of electrical systems. Contact us for more on the types of electrical technicians and get a quote for our services.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
Photo By PV productions at Shutterstock
Measures To Take While Selecting A Professional Electrician
The modern world is composed of complex and technologically advanced inventions. This has led to a growing demand for qualified technology, engineering, and construction experts. With the growing number of complex electronic devices, electrical services have never been more sought after.
Qualities to Assess When Selecting a Professional
When selecting a professional electrician, there are many qualities that you’ll want to look for. Here are some of the most important ones:
Good Communication Skills
An electrician should be able to communicate effectively with clients. This is particularly important if you need information about the problems that you’re experiencing with your electrical system. Such service providers don’t work independently and may interact with property owners and project managers during the line of duty. To ensure your needs are met, look for a professional who can communicate adequately.
Availability to Address Your Electrical Needs
The most sought-after professionals tend to be busy. Getting in touch with them may take a lot of work. One way to eliminate this problem is by finding companies with flexible schedules and are available whenever you need them. If the professional you’re considering seems to only be contacted at certain times, it’s better to find another alternative. Emergencies are uncontrollable, and you may be forced to call an electrical service provider at inconvenient times. If a company cannot provide prompt attention, your search continues.
Licensing and Insurance Information
Any professional who works with electricity should have a license issued by the licensing authority. Inquire about their insurance policies to ascertain their level of protection when working on your property. This is essential because electrical issues can cause severe damage to both your property and the professionals serving you. Safety is crucial and must be considered when you’re choosing a professional.
Consider Experience
While hiring an experienced electrical service provider can be more expensive, it’s worth it in the long run. Professionals who have been in business for a long time know the craft better and are more reliable. Ask about the number of projects your potential company has worked on and if they’ve handled similar projects. You also ask about the quality of their work. Experienced professionals can do more than fix simple wiring problems. They can also detect serious problems before they get out of hand. Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach is equipped with experienced personnel who provide exceptional electrical services.
Safety and Health Requirements
When working with electricity, there are many risks involved. Ask your potential company if they have safety policies that outline procedures regarding personal safety and that of clients’ property. The availability of these measures should give you confidence and assure you that your needs will be handled while guaranteeing your safety.
Good Reputation for Service and Quality
A company’s reputation, borne out of client satisfaction, is important. You can learn about the reputation of a professional through word of mouth or an internet search. Look for reviews from previous clients and look into any negative feedback. However, one bad review doesn’t mean avoiding a service provider. If the company has managed to satisfy most of its clients, then you can trust that they provide quality services.
Consistency
An electrician is responsible for handling a wide range of electrical problems. These include minor problems such as malfunctions in switches, outlets, and lamps to major issues like power outages and lightning strikes. Professionals must be familiar with the different components that make electrical systems work. This ensures they always deliver consistent work quality. Any professional who has a record of inconsistent work should be avoided. Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach has highly skilled staff who consistently deliver quality services.
Good Time Management Skills
Poor time management skills can result in delaying or rescheduling electrical service projects. Additionally, it can result in lost profits due to missed appointments. Time management issues are evident when the professional you’re considering cannot be contacted when needed. Changes in schedules can severely impact service delivery. As a homeowner, you need a professional who completes tasks on time.
Attention to Detail
When you hire an electrical service provider, you’ll want the work done perfectly. Ask your potential company if they have a quality control system. A quality control system ensures all electrical service repairs are made accurately. It allows technicians to return to a previous repair and make corrections before proceeding with a new project.
The Need for Electrical Services
Electrical devices make our lives easier and more comfortable. We depend on them to run everyday functions, such as heating and cooling our homes, preparing food, cleaning the house, and caring for babies. With the advent of modern technology, today’s home is completely dependent on electricity. It’s no longer a luxury but a necessity. It has become part of our daily lives, and we need to manage it.
Maintenance
The electrical equipment installed in your homes requires maintenance and repair at some point. The professional you use in your electrical repairs should be aware of the different parts of the home’s electrical system. They can identify systems routinely and take appropriate action when indicated. This helps ensure that any parts that need servicing or replacement can be done right away rather than waiting for an unexpected problem to arise or breaking down completely.
Emergency Power Outages
More often than not, power outages and other electrical problems occur at the most inconvenient times. When a situation arises, it will be important to have a reliable electrician who can provide prompt service and handle the problem quickly with minimal disruption to your daily routine.
Our company, Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach, can help you with every electrical service you require. We do everything from repairing faulty wiring to installing new systems and everything in between. Our highly trained and experienced staff provide the best service and highest quality workmanship. Don’t hesitate to call us or visit our website for more information.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
Photo By fizkes at Shutterstock
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing The Right Emergency Electrician
The modern world relies heavily on electricity, and unexpected issues may arise. This necessitates the need to find an emergency electrician. Having a skilled professional can ensure the safety of your home or business whenever you need emergency electrical services.
Selecting an Emergency Electrical Service Provider
If you pay attention to the following important factors that will help you make the right choice when choosing an emergency electrical service provider.
Licensing and Certification
A qualified emergency electrical expert should possess the necessary licenses and certifications to perform their duties. Electricians must have a valid state license, which ensures they have undergone proper training and adhere to industry standards. When selecting an emergency electrician, always verify their licensing status and ask for proof of certification to guarantee their expertise.
Experience and Reputation
Experience is a crucial factor in determining the competence of an emergency electrician. A seasoned professional will have encountered various electrical issues and be better equipped to handle complex situations. Research the electrician’s background, and look for reviews or testimonials from previous clients to gauge their reputation. Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach has a proven track record of delivering quality service and customer satisfaction.
Availability and Response Time
In times of crisis, a swift response is essential. When choosing an emergency electrical expert consider their availability and response time. A reliable professional should offer 24/7 service and be able to arrive promptly when called upon. Inquire about their average response time, and opt for an electrician who can provide timely assistance.
Safety and Insurance
Safety is paramount when dealing with electrical emergencies. A responsible electrician should prioritize safety measures and adhere to industry best practices. Ensure that the electrician you choose is fully insured, as this will protect you from any liability in case of accidents or damage during the repair process.
Transparent Pricing and Warranties
Electrical emergencies can be stressful, and the last thing you need is to be burdened with hidden costs or subpar work. When selecting an emergency electrician, look for professionals who offer transparent pricing and provide written estimates before commencing work. Additionally, inquire about warranties on their services, as this demonstrates confidence in their workmanship and a commitment to customer satisfaction.
Personalized Service and Communication
A good emergency electrical expert should be able to communicate effectively and provide personalized service. Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach listens to your needs, explains the issue clearly, and offers tailored solutions to resolve the problem.
Understanding the Importance of Regular Electrical Maintenance
Regular electrical maintenance is essential in ensuring the safety of your home environment. The benefits include:
Prolonging the Lifespan of Your Electrical System
By scheduling regular electrical maintenance, you can extend the life of your electrical system and prevent costly repairs or replacements. A skilled emergency electrical expert will inspect and identify potential issues, ensuring your system remains in optimal condition and functions efficiently for years.
Enhancing Safety and Reducing Risks
Your safety is paramount; regular electrical maintenance can help minimize the risk of electrical fires, shocks, or other hazards. By addressing potential problems early on, you can create a safer environment for yourself, your family, or your employees.
Improving Energy Efficiency
When your electrical system is well-maintained, it operates more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills. Regular maintenance lets you identify areas where energy is wasted and implement solutions to conserve power.
Preventing Unexpected Breakdowns
Unexpected electrical issues can be disruptive and inconvenient. By investing in regular maintenance, you can detect and resolve potential problems before they escalate, ensuring that your electrical system remains reliable and functional.
Complying with Local Regulations and Codes
A responsible citizen needs to adhere to local regulations and electrical codes. Hiring a professional to maintain your electrical system regularly protects you from legal issues and fines by ensuring you comply with legal standards.
Creating a Comprehensive Plan to Handle Electrical Emergencies and Protect Your Home or Business
Below are tips to help you prepare for an electrical emergency:
Identifying Potential Electrical Hazards
The first step in creating an emergency preparedness plan is identifying potential electrical hazards in your home or business. Conduct a thorough inspection of your property, paying close attention to wiring, outlets, and appliances. You can take preventive measures to minimize the risk of electrical emergencies by pinpointing areas of concern.
Establishing a Relationship with a Trusted Electrician
Establishing a relationship with a trusted electrician who can assist you in times of need is essential. Choose a professional with a strong reputation, proper licensing, and experience handling electrical emergencies. Having a reliable electrician on call will ensure that you receive prompt assistance when required.
Installing Safety Devices
Equip your home or business with safety devices, such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), to protect against electrical hazards. Regularly test these devices and replace batteries to ensure proper functioning.
Creating an Evacuation Plan
In the event of an electrical emergency, it’s crucial to have a well-rehearsed evacuation plan in place. Designate clear exit routes and ensure that all occupants are familiar with them. Conduct regular drills to practice evacuating the premises safely and efficiently.
Assembling an Emergency Kit
Prepare an emergency kit containing essential items, such as flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, a first aid kit, and non-perishable food. Store this kit in an easily accessible location and ensure all family members or employees know its whereabouts.
Regularly Reviewing and Updating Your Plan
Finally, it’s essential to regularly review and update your emergency preparedness plan to account for any changes in your home or business. This may include new appliances, renovations, or changes in occupancy. You can protect your property from electrical emergencies and potential hazards by staying proactive and vigilant.
If you need emergency services, our company Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach has you covered. We respond quickly to emergency calls and offer high-quality electrical services. To access our services, call us today.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
Photo By Watchara Newman at Shutterstock
Is Using Ungrounded Outlets Risky? Advice From Your Reliable Electrician
Electricity is a vital energy resource used for running most of the appliances at your home. However, this essential resource is dangerous if not handled properly. Observing the minimum safety requirements is something that you should do at all times. Because of its volatility by nature, misusing electricity or handling it without observing safety precautions will result in fatalities, property losses, and electrical fires. Contrary to what you may think, electrical misuse isn’t all that uncommon. One of the very common electrical misuses is using ungrounded electrical outlets. While grounding electrical outlets protects you from electrical shocks and protects your appliances, some homeowners knowingly or unknowingly use these outlets without grounding. This only exposes them to various dangers and risks. If you are unsure that your electrical outlet is grounded, call an electrician for an inspection.
What’s an Ungrounded Electrical Outlet?
There are two types of outlets— those having 2 slots and those having a hole and two slots. A typical home setup with safe ungrounded outlets will see the “three-prong configuration.” The small hole at the outlet’s bottom is critical in this case. It makes the electrical outlet a grounded one. Two vertical slots represent a “neutral” and “hot” wire. That hole at the bottom of the outlet connects to a neutral vertical slot. A grounded outlet means that whenever something is wrong with the outlet, for instance, currently running via the wrong channel or an overload, the grounding wire on the electrical appliance will send the charge to “ground.” Without the grounding wire, electrical current would flow wherever it finds a conductor.
Dangers of Using an Ungrounded Outlet
Electrical Shock
Electric shocks are the most immediate risk of using electrical outlets that aren’t grounded. If the outlet isn’t grounded, it is not connected to the earth, meaning excessive electrical charge will be held up in the system without a place to flow to. Hence, if any conductor, such as water or even a person, comes into contact with the outlet, the excessive charge will flow through the conductor or person, potentially resulting in fatal electrical shocks. Electrical shocks may cause severe injuries such as burns, neurological and heart damage. In some severe cases, electrical shocks could even cause death. Hence, you should ensure that all the electrical outlets in your business or home are grounded. If you are unsure that they are, have an electrician come over for an inspection.
Fire Hazard
The other considerable risk of using grounded electrical outlets is that they could cause a fire hazard. If an outlet is not grounded, it could result in electrical arcing, creating heat and sparks that could start a fire. Arcing arises whenever the electrical power jumps from one conductor to the next, creating high-temperature sparks. If there is a flammable material like fabric or paper present, it could spread quickly and cause a fire. Besides the risk of arcing, the ungrounded electrical outlets also can make the wires or the plugged-in appliances overheat, resulting in a fire hazard. Overheating arises when there is much current flowing via the wires. It also can arise when there’s a fault in the electrical appliance, making it draw much electrical power.
Appliance Damage
Using an ungrounded outlet may damage the plugged-in appliances, especially if there are power surges. If there is no proper ground connection, the electrical surges may damage the connected appliances or even make them malfunction. Electrical surges arise in case of a sudden spike in the electrical supply voltage that can abruptly increase the current flowing via the wires.
Appliances sensitive to power surges include refrigerators, computers, televisions, air conditioners, and other electronic and electrical appliances. Since most of these appliances have delicate electronic circuits, even the smallest voltage spikes may damage. If these electrical surges occur repeatedly, they may cause permanent damage to your appliance, resulting in a need for costly replacement or even repairs at best. Electricians recommend installing a whole-home surge protector to deal with electrical surges.
Electrical Interference
The ungrounded outlets also may create electrical interference, disrupting the operations of any nearby electronic devices. This interference arises when the electrical signals from a device interfere with those from another device. Unfortunately, this might make the electronic device malfunction. For instance, if an ungrounded outlet is near a television or radio, you may hear or notice static noise or interference when you turn on the device. Such interferences are caused by those electrical signals from the power outlet, disrupting the signals from the television or radio.
Increased Electrical Noise
The other potential issue with using ungrounded outlets is that they cause increased electrical noise. But what is electrical noise? These are any unwanted electrical signals interfering with how your electronic devices operate. The noises usually manifest as buzzing or humming sounds from the electronic device or static on TV or radio. This is particularly an issue in sensitive environments such as laboratories, hospitals, or recording studios.
Risk of Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)
One of the less known risks of using ungrounded outlets is electrostatic discharge or ESD. ESD arises when there is a sudden flow of electrical power between two objects at different electrical potentials. But how is ESD a risk? It can cause considerable damage to sensitive devices containing delicate electronic components such as microchips and circuit boards. If an electrical outlet is not grounded properly, it may cause a buildup of static electricity in its surrounding environment. This will create a potential for ESD, which might destroy or damage sensitive electronic components. Hence, if you are unsure that your outlets are grounded, consult your reliable electrician. Should they determine the outlets are ungrounded, they recommend you install grounded ones such as GFCI.
Do you need help inspecting your electrical system, upgrading the ungrounded outlets, or identifying potential issues? Contact our licensed electrical repair technicians at Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach today to schedule an appointment.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
Photo By Adurable Creations at Shutterstock
Check out this tip!