Tag: lighting installation

Lights Flickering? We have the solution!

Posted on | by K Hopkins

Flickering lights are almost impossible to ignore. They can be very annoying and dangerous if not solved. Flickering lights can be fun and raise no cause for alarm if the lights in question are decorative lights.

Here is why your lights are flickering and the possible solutions to restore your peace of mind.

Something to do with the bulb
Flickering lights may mean an issue with the light bulb, and this can occur in several ways.

Loose bulb – A loose bulb is probably good news because it means the problem is a poor connection. This usually applies when you have one flickering light. Turn off the power and use a gloved hand to unscrew the bulb carefully and then screw it back in.

Fluorescent bulbs – With fluorescent bulbs, it is almost normal to experience a brief flicker for about a minute after the light is turned on. To avoid this, you can replace your fluorescent bulbs with LED lights.

Faulty bulbs – Faulty or burned out bulbs can flicker as a sign that they need replacement. If a new bulb works better, then problem solved.

Dimmer switch – A dimmer switch comes in handy for lighting control and comfort but the bulb connected to this switch must be compatible. An incompatible bulb may flicker or you may even experience strobe light. Simply replace the flickering lights with a compatible one.

Outlets and Switches
Most lights are hard wired to a wall outlet or switch. Check the outlets for any sign of fault or wear. Flip the switch on and off while listening closely and observing the changes. If the outlets or wall switches are the culprits, a replacement will solve the problem.

Wiring
When it’s none of the above, then you must consider a problem with the wiring of the fixture itself. Sometimes this can be fixed. Weigh your options if a repair is a better choice than a replacement.

Surges
Minor power surges can cause lights to flicker. These surges can occur when a demanding appliance comes on or during lightning strikes. This may not be a cause for alarm but over time it can become dangerous for your lighting system. A professional electrician can inspect and proffer a solution in this case.

A sign of outdated wiring
Flickering lights can be a sign of outdated wiring in the home. They show that your system is unreliable and needs an upgrade. This is not something you can troubleshoot or handle on your own. It can only be confirmed by an electrical technician.

How to Wire a House for the Future

Posted on | by K Hopkins

wiring home for the futureA lot has changed with the way homes are built and wired. Some decades ago a physical key and a lock was the only way you could go in and out of your home but today we have digital locks and virtual keys. Those who never thought of such possibilities for the future might have had a hard time incorporating changes like this in their home. Hence, as your go-to for all things electrical, we will discuss how to wire your house for the future.

First, it is important to know that wiring your home for the future is a project that requires an expert electrician. It may seem demanding at the time, but you will reap the benefits in a few years or even months.

Future home wiring involves creating a system that allows you to combine the different wiring around the home into a network. It is built to enable the integration of various smart systems and sensors in the home now or at a later date. It also ensures that you can conveniently add more systems such as lighting, security, and internet communication systems for your comfort. When you think about it, wiring the home for the future is something everyone should do.
Learn the basics.

When wiring your home for the future, there are a number of systems that will control various functions across your property. These include:

  • Audio and video
  • Security
  • Heating and cooling
  • Computer and Internet
  • Telephone
  • Smoke detection
  • Irrigation

These systems must be wired to a central location in the house. You must choose the control area wisely with the help of the electrician. The control area should possess the following features:

  • A moderate room temperature
  • Enough physical space for a wall panel and equipment rack
  • Easy access, dust-free location
  • Close to the area where service feeds like the Internet enters the home
  • Lots of outlets

Components for the wiring

  • Infrared (IR) controls
    Infrared is the technology that represents remote control features. Several current homes and those of the future require remotes to control some installed automated systems. IR controls are used to make this possible.
  • Category 5e and Category 6 (CAT-5e AND CAT-6) cables
    These cables are Ethernet cables that future-proof your house for years to come. They connect computers and all computer-based systems to a network.
  • Patch cables and Patch panel
    Patch cables are used to connect devices to each other. They are used with a Patch panel to link all smart home devices. The Patch panel is like an organizer that houses plugged in electrical components and helps to distribute signals.

Wiring

Ensure your electrician runs three wires to each switch in the home- hot, neutral, and load wires. Although some electricians do this, it is important to state your preference to be sure you have a neutral wire for future home automation installations.

Next is the use of deep junction boxes. Deep junction boxes give you room to work and accommodate new systems. It is worth the peace of mind when you need to install in-wall devices.

Install cable conduits and terminate them into junction boxes. Cover these boxes with a faceplate if there is no urgent use for them. Make sure you have one in each room located at eye level. It is much easier to make this addition during construction than later when it is needed.

Include wiring in the ceiling or in the wall for speakers. This comes in handy when you need a speaker or audio system across rooms. Other variables for this wiring project like size, number, and type of wires can be discussed with your electrician.

If you want to get your home future-ready, give The Electric Connection a call today!

Do You Need An Electrician to Install a Chandelier?

Posted on | by K Hopkins

chandelier installationChandeliers are valuable lights admired for the elegance and lighting quality they bring to a room. Any chandelier can add glamour and beauty to a home or even a commercial building. They come in various sizes, shapes, and designs. Some people believe that chandeliers are for high ceilings and dining rooms. A chandelier is actually quite versatile as it can be used in any part of the home and with both low and high ceilings.

There is a common debate people have about the installation of a chandelier. Some believe it can be a simple DIY process because a chandelier is still a light fixture. Others acknowledge that it is an electrical matter and should be handled by an electrician. Going DIY on your chandelier installation will save you cost but it is not safe or ideal. Any mistake can disrupt your entire electrical system or affect all the fixtures in the home or building.

A standard electrical box which is present in any light fixture installation can hold only 50 pounds. Regular chandeliers weigh more than that; hence it is necessary to determine if you need a support system before finishing the installation. It is almost impossible for a homeowner to do this. So, the best option is to hire a professional electrician. The electrician can handle any size of chandeliers and their wiring needs.

How to choose an electrician for your chandelier installation
Although you need an electrician to install a chandelier in your home, you must also take precautions when hiring. The wrong choice can lead to mistakes and regrets. The electrician you hire must be experienced and licensed. This is important because chandeliers are delicate and you must be familiar with their diversity to install them properly. Do a background check on the electrician and ask for references you can check out. Ensure the electrician is insured. Usually, you do not require a permit to carry out this installation but if the nature of your task demands a permit, then ensure the electrician has them.

Finally, consider the cost. The cost of hiring an electrician for this installation varies. Most electrical technicians charge per hour and the hourly cost is between $40 and $100. You may pay a total quote of between $300 and $2000 depending on the hours spent, size of the chandelier, and service provided. Remember to ask the electrician about the hardware to be used, cleanup, and estimated time needed.

Reach out to us at The Electric Connection
We know how delicate and yet majestic chandeliers are. Our professional, licensed, and experienced electricians are experts at a chandelier installation. We complete the job swiftly and ensure there’s little to clean up afterwards.

What is involved in a House Rewire?

Posted on | by K Hopkins

electrical tools for a house rewireRewiring is one of the most difficult, messy, and disruptive maintenance projects you can perform in the home. It is equally time-consuming and costly but very necessary. The lifespan of the electrical installation in a home is usually 25 years. However, this duration can vary depending on use. The electrical system will have to be inspected every 10 years if it is in a privately owned property or every 5 years for a rented property. This inspection guarantees electrical safety.

There are several reasons a homeowner or property investor might consider rewiring a house:

  • You may want to sell an old home and decide a full house rewire is a great way to add value to the property.
  • You may have hired an electrician for a routine inspection and discovered that your electrical system is less than ideal.
  • You may buy an older home and want to be sure of safe and dependable electricity.
  • You may be experiencing tell-tale signs such as flickering lights, warm outlets, mild electrical shocks, dimming lights, tripping switches, blown fuses, and more.
  • You may be carrying out a renovation project.

Whatever your reasons for a house rewire, it is important to know what it involves and what to do or expect.

The Cost
The truth is, a full house rewire doesn’t come cheap. If you consider only the costs first and opt for lower quality service, you may place lives and property in danger. A house rewire must be carried out the right way.

The Process
Usually, this rewiring project may take up to four or five days to complete. The size of your home and the number of electricians working may also influence the time it takes to be completed. The first step for all electricians is to inspect and prepare the property. The wiring in your home is set in the ceiling, behind the walls, and within the floorboards. All of these need to be assessed and exposed to work on. You will also be asked to specify any preferences for outlets. Anything that stands between your wiring and the electricians will be taken down to gain access. This is what makes rewiring disruptive and messy.

The first work stage of the house rewiring process is called the first fix. It involves installing new wiring, cabling, back boxes, and circuits. The lighting and socket positions are labeled to make the second fix stage easier. The second fix stage commences after the first fix and it involves the installation of light fittings, socket fronts, light switches, and isolation switches. Next, the consumer unit is set up and connected to the new wiring system. After this step, your new electrical system will be live but a professional electrician won’t leave just yet. They will proceed to test everything and ensure it meets with electrical standards.

At The Electric Connection we follow this procedure thoroughly and work to make things easier for you. We are quick and professional. We guarantee a safe electrical system that adds value and convenience to your home.

What Do Electrical Contractors Do?

Posted on | by K Hopkins

The words ‘electrical contractor and electrician’ are often used interchangeably. Many people do not know the difference between both but assume they mean the same thing. In this article, we will discuss what an electrical contractor does and how they are different from an electrician.

An electrical contractor is a business person or company that performs specialized tasks or construction work in relation to the installation, maintenance, and design of an electrical system. In simpler terms, an electrical contractor can be either a firm or a person who performs electrical tasks. An electrician is a personal tradesman. Electricians are employed by electrical contractors.

Job Duties and Description
The duties of an electrical contractor include the installation and maintenance of electrical systems. These are performed on building wiring, breaker box, switches, light fixtures, and so on. Electrical contractors work on residential, commercial, and industrial setting. Their work hours depend on the task at hand. Electrical contractors work within or outside a home or building, they are not restricted like electricians. For example, they may work on power stations while a regular electrician can’t. There are different types of electrical contractors and this makes their services specialized. Some electrical contractors are skilled in almost all areas.

  • Line Electrical Contractors
    Line or outside contractors work on electrical installations or maintenance which are located outside buildings. This primarily includes working on high-voltage power transmission and distribution lines. They ensure the power plant is functional and distributes power as needed into homes and buildings.
  • Inside Electrical Contractors
    These group of contractors work within the boundaries of a property. They provide cabling, installation, maintenance, rewiring, and repair services within residential, commercial, and institutional buildings.
  • Voice/Data/Video Electrical Contractors
    Also known as Integrated Building System Electrical Contractors, this type of electrical contractors work with low-voltage installations to ensure they are efficient, functional, and energy saving. These include power controls, backup power, wireless networks, energy-efficient lighting, fiber optics, telecommunications, and security systems.

    Becoming an electrical contractor requires an apprenticeship program of 4 years. Electrical contractors learn everything from math, electrical theory, blueprints, work safety, and National electrical codes.

Benefits of Using Electrical Contractors
As a business person or firm, an electrical contractor employs other professional electricians. Hence, work is faster, efficient, and most times affordable. You can also reach out to an electrical contractor for consultation, inspection, and other informational services before hiring to complete the job. They can advise you on the best installations necessary or suitable for your home or building. They can provide energy-saving alternatives and help you establish an overall dependable electrical system. Electrical contractors are experts in troubleshooting services and respond promptly to your needs. With electrical contractors, you are assured of experience, reliability, and professionalism. Unlike an electrician who is an individual tradesman, you can depend on an electrical contractor of a firm. They have integrity and access to all the equipment required for a project. An electrical contractor takes safety seriously. Contact us at The Electric Connection for your outstanding electrical services.

Light Fixture Installation Services Near Me

Posted on | by K Hopkins

We often see light fixture installations as the easiest tasks of an electrician. Hence, most people try to do them without professional help. A light fixture is described as an electrical device containing an electric lamp. They usually come with an installed switch for users to control the light. For light fixtures to work, they must be connected to a power source. Common examples are your ceiling lights, chandelier, outdoor lights and so on.

An experienced electrician can install any light fixture you need in your house or commercial building. Here are some types of light fixtures installation services.

Recessed light fixture service
This type of light fixture is usually installed above the ceiling with about 6 inches clearance and insulation to avoid the effects of condensation. The insulation is important for recessed lights because lights can heat up and with one above the ceiling there is little exposure to air like other fixtures.

Recessed lights are different from other lights as they do not spread. They send a narrow band of light in a single direction. Recessed light installations are ideal for task lighting, ambient lighting, or accent lighting.

Architectural light fixture service
Architectural lighting refers to lights integrated into a room’s structure. They are of 3 types which are cove, soffit, and valance. Cove lights are installed in areas like a ledge or shelf. Soffit lighting is located on a corner or edge of the ceiling. While cove lighting bounces on the wall, soffit lighting washes the walls with light. Valance lighting is usually placed over a window or high up on a wall. It is located in either glass, metal, or wood. Its rays also bounce off the walls. Architectural lighting is vital in every home or building and is used as ambient lighting.

Other types of light fixtures include track lights which are mounted from the ceiling. The fixture is linear; that is along a track, adjustable, and commonly used for task lighting purposes. Under cabinet, lights are installed under kitchen cabinets for better illumination with kitchen tasks. There is also pendant lights and chandeliers which are decorative and illuminate a large area.

Choosing an Electrician for Light Fixture Installation Near You

All electrical installations should be carried out by an electrician. Mistakes made by an amateur or inexperienced homeowner with the installation can lead to burning wires, electrical hazards, damaged fixtures, faulty fixtures, and much more. Here are the steps for choosing an electrician near you for light fixtures installation services.

  • When installing chandeliers, always choose an electrician with similar experience. Chandeliers require an expert to be properly mounted and functional. They are different from traditional light fixtures, so care should be taken in this area.
  • Perform a background check on the electrician you hire. If you are hiring from an electrical company, you can look to their portfolio, reviews, and website to get a feel of their work.
  • Ensure the electrical technician is licensed by asking for a copy of the license. This is important to avoid do-overs at extra cost.

New Lighting Installation in Your Home

Posted on | by K Hopkins

recessed lighting installationAn electrical contractor will always tell you that good lighting is everything. These are not empty words as both homeowners and store owners can agree. The benefits and functions of light in any location are numerous. It is one of the primary reasons we use electricity. Lighting illuminates a space to give you clarity and vision, but in contemporary times they do even more. Lights can boost your business in a commercial building. They can improve security, productivity, and efficiency. Also, studies have shown that lights can be associated with good mood and a relaxed mind.

Lighting installations are performed by electrical technicians. These installations range from simple tasks such as light fixtures to more complex installations like recessed lighting. To give you some insight, here are different types of new lighting installations.

Track lighting
Like the name sounds, track lighting involves more than one light installed along a fixture. These lights can be controlled to light up any general direction. This makes them efficient. Track lighting can also add beauty to a place because of their unique placement.

Recessed lights
These lights are installed in the ceiling but are different because the fixtures cannot be seen. You can think of recessed lighting as a bulb pushed into the ceiling till all you can see is the light emanating from a circle above. There are a variety of recessed lights but you should hire a professional electrician to install them.

Wall lighting
Wall light fixtures protrude from drywall. They have to be hard-wired into your home. People mostly use wall lighting for aesthetic purposes. They also offer a wide variety in design.

Pendant lighting and Chandeliers
This is the category for chandeliers and other dropping light fixtures. They light up any space but also have decorative functions. Chandeliers have several forms and are often called premium lights. They might not drop to the ground but their exotic structures add length to these lights. Pendant lighting and chandeliers should be chosen and installed carefully because they are very visible and can set a theme for their location.

Under cabinet lights
You would want under cabinet lights installed in the kitchen to aid you during food preparation. They can also be any size and shape.

Tips for Choosing Lighting Installations in the Home

  • Always consider the ceiling height when deciding what installations to use. Low ceilings work better with recessed lights and not pendant lights.
  • It is important to know your lighting installations plan before construction of your home. This way the structure doesn’t deprive you of the fixtures you desire. However, if you live in a rented apartment, your choices might be limited to following the already provided structure.
  • There is no rule against infusing creativity in your lighting installation plans. Discuss your ideas with the electrical contractor to know if they are possible.
  • Ensure that you think of function before aesthetics. Hence, your first lighting installations should be exterior lights, basement lights, lights in the stairs, and so on.

Are Panel Upgrades Necessary?

Posted on | by K Hopkins

Panel upgrades are large projects. They require the expertise of a professional electrician and a good investment in funds. The electrical panels of a home contribute to its overall efficiency. In this modern age, we all rely so much on power to complete day-to-day activities. This power is distributed by the electrical panel of a home or building.

Like all electrical components, the electrical panel can require upgrade or changes. It is subject to fault, wear and tear. Some homeowners try to avoid upgrading the panel and keep using repairs as a shortcut. This is dangerous to lives and property. If you are not convinced about the need for panel upgrades, read on to learn why it is really necessary.

  • Safety
    Unlike cars, bicycles, and other material objects you cannot use an electrical panel to its breaking point. An old or faulty panel is dangerous and difficult to operate. It becomes problematic and prone to electrical issues like heating or sparking. They also increase the risks of house fires and damaged appliances. To avoid home accidents, it is necessary to upgrade old or malfunctioning panels.
  • Convenience
    There are times when you need to make changes to the appliances you use in the home or your lighting preferences. Without a functional panel, it is impossible to enjoy such convenience. Your current panel might not have the capacity to power your home with the new requirements for power. This will lead to frequent tripping which is always frustrating.
  • Value for your home
    An upgraded electrical panel adds value to your home. It makes it attractive to investors and home buyers in the future. No one will be interested in a home with an old panel or a faulty one.
  • Eliminate electrical problems
    Flickering lights, tripping breakers, smoking outlets, warm outlets, and so on are frustrating and worrying electrical problems. An upgraded panel can eliminate these issues. The panel helps to ensure the safe supply of electricity and no electrical hazards in the home.
  • Saves you money during remodeling
    An upgraded panel saves homeowners money, during a remodeling project. There will be no need to upgrade the panel after carrying out a remodeling project in the home if this is already done. This will save homeowners from investing so much on a single project.

How to upgrade the electrical panel

An upgrade is only necessary when you experience signs of a fault in the electrical wiring. It is also carried out when you need to move from a 60-100 amp to a 200amp capacity panel. Ensure that you hire an electrical technician to inspect the house and carry out the upgrade. The project usually costs a substantial sum but takes less than a day to be completed.

Recessed Lighting Installation

Posted on | by K Hopkins

pot lightingRecessed lighting are also known as downlights. They differ from regular lighting that drops from the ceiling. Recessed lighting is installed within the ceiling and only the shining light can be seen. They appear as a light shining from a hole in the ceiling.

These lights vary in size and shape like regular lights. They comprise of two visible parts called the trim and baffles. Trim refers to the metal or plastic circle that fits on the ceiling helping to secure it. The baffles are the inner insert that helps to reflect the light. The shape and form of the baffle would determine how the light is reflected.

A lot of buildings use recessed lighting instead of other types of lighting. Their installation requires an electrical technician to avoid problems. You can hire an electrician that offers recessed lighting installation near you. These lights are unique and suitable for movie theatres, stores, kitchens in homes, shower stalls, even schools.

The benefits of recessed lighting installations

  • Waterproof
    Unlike other light fixtures, recessed lighting are waterproof. This makes them suitable for a water-intensive environment like shower stalls. When they come in contact with water, they do not go bad or pose a threat.
  • Always in style
    As more houses are built, manufacturers continuously come up with new products or designs. Some light fixtures are recognized as relics of the past because later models replaced them. Recessed lights are different because they are unusual and trend-proof. They do not go out of style and this makes them a good option for commercial buildings.
  • No visible fixtures
    This is a valuable benefit of recessed lights. They make ceilings look neat and organized as the fixtures lay hidden within the ceiling. Other types of lights such as lamps and dropping ceiling lights have exposed fixtures which can be dangerous and give the ceiling a busy appearance.
  • Full room illumination
    Lights sometimes can reach only a limited space when installed, but with the proper recessed lighting installation near you, the room can become fully illuminated. This is highly beneficial.
  • Suitable for low ceilings
    There are some parts of the home such as basements, with a low ceiling. Regular light will not be suitable for such rooms. Recessed lighting is an ideal option for low ceilings because they occupy less space but illuminate the room as needed.

Why you need a professional for recessed lighting installation near you
There are DIY methods available for homeowners or property owners to attempt installing recessed lights themselves. However, it is always better to call an experienced electrician from The Electric Connection for your electrical services.

Recessed lighting has to be properly installed to ensure they are secured to the ceiling. There is also the matter of insulation. Some recessed lights need to be covered with insulation to prevent the heat given off from starting a fire or other problems. An electrical technician will professionally complete the installation within stipulated electrical codes. This guarantees durability and allows you to seek the opinion of the electrician for the appropriate recessed lights to install.

Where to Find Lighting Installations in My Area

Posted on | by K Hopkins

lighting installationLighting is the use of light for aesthetic or practical effects. There’s the need for adequate lighting all around us. Lighting can be from natural or artificial light sources. However, during most hours of the day, daylight is used to illuminate buildings.

Lighting installation primary refers to the use of artificial light such as lamps, light fixtures, and so on. It requires the expertise of an electrician to be placed or installed properly in the home. Lighting installation can most times require an established process. This consists of:

Auditing
The electrical technician would carry out an inspection or survey on the home or property to determine its complete lighting needs. This includes the exterior and interior lighting requirements, energy saving needs, aesthetic needs, practical lighting requirements, security lighting, and much more.

Consultation
After carrying out a survey on the property, the electrician would inform you on what is best for your lighting installations. From the audit, the electrical technician can determine what works best for your home and give you enough details to make informed decisions.

Lighting Installation
Following the consultation and your decisions, the lighting installation project will begin. A professional electrician would acquire the needed tools and materials to complete the installation process in a suitable time. Regardless of if your home is small or large, the procedure remains the same from auditing to installation. However, every home or buildings has its unique and specific lighting needs. Which is why an initial audit is necessary.

Importance of good lighting

Lighting is valuable to buildings, homes, workplaces, and so on. Its benefits can only be experienced when lighting installation is carried out by a licensed electrician.

Here are some benefits and the importance of good lighting.

Enhances productivity
Studies have shown that light can affect people in several ways. The most common effect is an increase in productivity. Workers can be greatly inspired, motivated, and encouraged by a well-designed lighting system in the workplace.

Adds value
A properly installed lighting system adds value to a home or building. It makes it appealing to potential investors and even regular home visitors. Lighting facilitates organization and beauty in any space. Well-lighted businesses experience more traffic than others because light increases desirability.

Security
Lighting plays a major role in the security and safety of any building. A well-lighted environment helps to deter intruders and give you a clear view of your surroundings. It can also contribute to alarm systems and other safety mechanisms in the home.

Energy Saving
With the right electrical technician, lighting installation can help to save energy cost rather than increase it. Lighting can be customized or installed to increase efficiency in the home or workplace while saving you from more bills.

You can get a complete and proper lighting installation service from a reputable electrical company or professional electrician. At The Electric Connection we can provide lighting installation services for any building. Contact us to get started and give you satisfaction.