How Not Adhering To Electrical Code Can Result In The Need For An Emergency Electrician

4/25/2023

The electrical code setting standards for electrical appliance manufacturers, electrical services providers, and other related electrical industry suppliers undergo constant changes now and then. The National Electrical Code (NEC) sets and enforces the standards. It is worth noting that any advancements in these codes aim to enhance electrical safety, appliance durability, convenience, and leveraging the ever-changing technology. At times, if the problems that these changes in electrical code address are left unfixed, electrical issues might arise that need the immediate attention of an emergency electrician. Below are some possibilities that not being up to code might result into:

Outdated Circuit Breakers

Circuit breakers are essential in protecting your electrical appliances from power surges. This fixture at the heart of your home’s electrical system may sometimes be out-of-date. When the breakers are outdated, they are not breakers anymore. Rather, you’ll have to rely on the old-fashioned glass fuses that feature cartridge fuses for protecting your appliances. This is all hoping that nobody at your home has been using those old tricks for bypassing the fuse for convenience. You might not have to protect your electrical circuit if someone does.

As you can guess, your electrical circuit isn’t protected and poses severe electrical risks. If you realize that you haven’t updated your breakers for several years and there have been changes in the electrical code, you should contact an emergency electrician to see if the changes include circuit breakers. Remember, older breakers are prone to malfunctioning. Electrical overloads should result in a shutdown of your circuits. But What happens if that protection doesn’t work? Well, your home and family might be in for some trouble.

Outdated Wiring

When copper prices soared, electrical component and appliance manufacturers had to look for alternatives. It was generally agreed that aluminum wiring would form a good substitute, thanks to its electrical conductivity. Of course, that was if properly used, installed, maintained, and so forth. Since it isn’t as good a conductor as copper is, the wire had to be pretty different, and connections at every junction, outlet, switch, or light fixture had to be correct.

The aluminum wire would heat up if the conditions above weren’t observed. This warming could result in a raft of issues, such as the expansion and contraction of the connections with time, possibly loosening them. Loose connections are known to cause issues such as arcing and short-circuiting. Hence, installing up-to-code wires is critical to ensuring electrical safety at your home. But how can you know that the wiring at your home is not up-to-code? That’s the easy part. You only have to enlist the help of a reliable electrical technician.

Outdated Electrical Components

Light fixtures, switches, and power outlets are always evolving. Consequently, the standards per NEC also keep changing to accommodate the changes. Additionally, the ones installed at your home are also aging. This combination of factors means that you should always ensure the said components are always to code. Otherwise, the risks you are exposed to will always be growing. You might have a decades-old light switch that sparks and arcs whenever you flip it. While this might only happen occasionally, it sometimes is dangerous.

Light fixtures, especially those with a downward-pointing bulb, handle some heat with expansion, insulating material decay and contraction. If there have been plumbing leaks at your home, you might have some corrosion on the light fixtures. Further, some homes still use two-blade sockets that don’t have a ground connection. Knowing the dangers of such connections, some homeowners try DIY grounding outlets without running a code-worthy ground wire.

And have you seen those electrical outlets installed upside-down? You might have wondered, what’s this? Such practices are common in hospitals. Do you have curious children? Installing code-worthy electrical fittings will ensure their safety. They have coverings that prevent the kids from shoving conducting objects such as spoons and forks inside. If you still use the ungrounded electrical outlets, have an emergency electrician replace them with newer ones that are up-to-code.

Higher Demand for Power

Nowadays, we love our electronic devices. You must only stay briefly before touching your phone or watching a movie on your TV. This means that the electrical outlets will, at most times, be full. Hence, people have turned to using power strips and electrical extension cords. On these, you might have connected several appliances such as your home theaters, amplifiers, and even a huge projection TV. Refrigerators, hair dryers, and dispensers are joined on an extension cord with other handy devices that draw considerable power. You do all this without considering their power ratings.

It is hard to tell, but some appliances are power-hungry and draw nearly all the rated power of the circuit. They could be powerful electronics you cannot suspect or larger appliances such as air conditioners. The common mantra that it is all right, provided it works, is dangerous, especially regarding electrical safety. What if the only protection in the consumer box is old, out-of-date breakers and fuses that cannot match the new appliances? You will end up having to call an electrician.

Surge Protection

Power surges are more likely now than they were previously. If you have an old-style washing machine or air compressor in your garage, you’ve certainly seen the light bulbs flicker as they cycle on and off. That’s not ideal for modern gadgets, and because both computers and TVs are pricey, you probably don’t want to consider what would happen if your gaming system breaks. Emergency electricians may install a whole-house solution that offers surge protection for any delicate equipment you own, regardless of where it is plugged in.

When was the last time you inspected your electrical systems? If you cannot recall, now is the time to have one. Contact us at Buffalo Electric for a professional electrical system inspection and fixes to ensure all components are up-to-code.

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What To Consider When Hiring A Commercial Electrician

Electric accidents are common in the modern era, where businesses and homes depend on electricity for smooth operation. Due to the sensitive nature of these installations, there are clear guidelines on who should handle electrical work. Across the United States, property owners and contractors are legally required to contract the services of a certified electrician to handle all matters of electricity.

An electrical technician is trained and experienced in handling a wide range of issues, including installations, repairs, and maintenance. Hiring these professionals has a lot of benefits; however, there are a few things you need to consider when hiring. While this principle is vital for commercial projects, it applies to all areas involving electricity. Here are factors to consider when contracting a commercial electrical company.

Factors to Consider When Contracting a Commercial Electrical Company

Qualifications

Commercial projects are often expensive and extensive. You don’t want an unqualified worker handling your installation, replacement, or repairs since a botched job can lead to huge losses. You need to hire a reliable firm with a pool of experienced technicians with industry knowledge. Keep in mind that a company’s reputation may not be enough since the electrician handling your project may have little to no experience.

Working with seasoned personnel means they can easily diagnose your issues and provide a viable solution, unlike inexperienced colleagues. Depending on the scope of the work, a highly rated company such as Buffalo Electric will send a ‘journeyman electrical technician.’ Unlike regular technicians, these professionals undergo four years of extensive training, gaining experience handling multiple cases, big or small.

Insurance

Electrical works are one of the most dangerous jobs in the world, with a high risk of injury or fatality. Aside from personal injuries, these works can often result in extensive damage to the property. Before hiring a commercial electrical company, ensure the company has a liability and worker’s compensation insurance policy. This cover helps protect you from any financial obligation related to the job. For example, if a worker gets electrocuted during rewiring, the policy can cover their medical bill.

Working with an insured firm leaves you vulnerable to lawsuits, and sometimes, your insurance provider can refuse to honor your claim. A responsible and reputable electrical firm will work towards protecting its workers and clients from the dangers of working with electricity.

Flexibility

Being a commercial property means it’s open for business almost every day. You need to have an electrician who can respond to emergencies or respond to calls at any time of the day or week. Besides timely response, commercial electrical technicians need to be adaptable due to the dynamic nature of commercial projects. These technicians should be able to adjust quickly to challenges to get the project back on track.

Their flexibility should also be seen in their communication. Your electrical technician should be easy to talk to and exchange ideas. Being able to approach your team creates a conducive work environment for a successful project.

Cost

Money is usually the least deciding factor when choosing a contractor for your commercial project. These projects are often complex and require utmost care during installations and repairs to avoid a botched job. Working with a cheap technician means cutting corners to meet demand. While this may seem like a good way to save money, it can prove costly in the future, especially if the technician jumps hoops on some codes or uses substandard goods.

When using costs and fees as a determining factor, you need to find an electrical company that is transparent with its charges. Some firms are known to bill customers with hidden charges driving up the project’s cost, forcing you to go out of budget.

The contractor should provide a quote for the project, a detailed explanation of the procedures involved, and the reason for the charges. Dealing with a transparent contractor means you can create a budget estimate based on available funds. This information also helps you compare their fees with other electrical companies to find one that best fits your needs.

Scan for References and Reviews

Being a first-time client can be challenging, especially if you don’t know what to expect from a commercial electrical company. Some clients have had a bad experience with some firms, making them weary of contractors, hence some hesitation.

Before committing to a specific contractor, it’s advisable to research different firms in the area. You need to find a professional with a customer-first approach with a proven performance record. Online reviews and references are the best way to get unbiased opinions on a contractor’s services. When looking at their reviews, focus more on the negative reviews to see how they responded. This way, you can gauge their customer engagement and quality of service. You can as well ask the company for at least two references to gain insight into their service delivery.

Guarantees and Warranties

A reputable firm such as Buffalo Electric stands by its work and can vouch for its employees. Guarantees offered by these firms are often tied to their history in the area and past work. You should aim for a team that would go to great lengths to ensure you get the best service to achieve the highest customer satisfaction.

While not many firms offer guarantees and warranties, these two are a measure of a firm’s confidence in their work. It also gives you peace of mind since you don’t have to worry about a botched job that may attract extra costs. A warranty plays a key role in the negotiations as the firm offers to handle repair and maintenance services within the period stipulated.

Visit Buffalo Electric for Exemplary Services

A commercial project is one of the most complex electrical jobs in the field hence the need for top professionals with an understanding of multiple electrical works. A botched job can be costly and, in some cases, delay the re-opening of the property. Interview and review each electrician to find the best fit for your project.

At Buffalo Electric, we boast a wide pool of experienced technicians. Contact us for more information on electrical installations, repairs, and maintenance.

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Common Problems You Need An Electrician To Fix

If you have circuit breaker problems or frequently receive electrical shocks when turning appliances on or off, it’s time to call in Buffalo Electric to inspect and fix your home’s electrical system. Our certified electricians are licensed and insured and have many years of experience resolving issues such as power surges, warm outlets, and dead outlets for our customers. As well as handling the common problems listed below, we can also provide a complete overhaul of your home’s electrical system to bring it up to modern standards.

You Have Circuit Breaker Problems

Your circuit breaker defends your home against overloads and helps prevent short-circuiting. It interrupts the flow of electricity when an electrical fault occurs. Therefore, if your circuit breaker is continually tripped, you may have underlying electrical problems that require attention. While it’s important to keep your circuit breaker working properly to prevent fires and overheating, you’ll also want our team to inspect your system and find the underlying culprit. This may vary from poor wiring to overloaded outlets that require updating.

There’s no need to worry if you have a problem with your circuit breaker since Buffalo Electric is just a phone call away. Perhaps it happens when you’re overusing your electricity trying to catch up on laundry, while watching your favorite sport, drying your hair, cooking dinner in the oven, and running the dishwasher. Multiple large appliances running at once can trip the breaker.

Buffalo Electric will provide a thorough inspection and make recommendations to improve your power reliability.

Your Electricity Surges or Dips

It may seem counterintuitive but electrical dips and surges are closely related. Power surges come from a spike in electrical charge on the power lines. That increases the surge of energy to your outlets. It may cause your appliances to become overloaded. Meanwhile, electrical dips create brownouts or drops in voltage that may cause flickering lights or interrupt the flow of electricity throughout your home.

Repeated power surges can damage your electronics and appliances. Lightning strikes, damaged power lines and other issues can generate surgeons. If you have appliances plugged into a faulty outlet they may draw too much power from the panel, causing a momentary brownout. Having an electrical expert inspect your home can give you the answers you’re looking for. For example, we can install a whole house surge protector to deal with runaway electric surges.

Whatever is causing an unpredictable electrical supply to your home, Buffalo Electric can find and fix the problem for the safety and convenience of your family.

Your Home has Scarce or Dead Outlets

If you don’t have enough electrical outlets in your home, it’s important to make sure that your current electrical panel can handle more before installing them. While overusing outlets can lead to tripped circuits, adding more outlets without the proper training can lead to even bigger problems.

Our team can inspect your electrical system and provide recommendations and estimates on the best way to resolve your lack of outlets without creating a fire hazard. Depending on the age of your home’s electrical system, we may be able to upgrade the current wiring or we may have to install a new panel box that can handle the demands of a modern household.

Dead Outlets

If you have non-working outlets in your home, there could be deeper problems hiding in the wiring behind your walls. Our trusted electricians can examine your wiring and find out whether it’s an easy fix or requires larger updates.

Frequent Light Bulb Blowouts

Burnt-out light bulbs are typically just an inconvenience solved by a trip to the local hardware store. However, if your bulbs frequently burn out after a recent installation, it could be an issue with overheating. Our reliable, insured electricians can trace the source of the problem and resolve the issue for you.

Some Lights Are Too Dim or Too Bright

On the other end of the spectrum, you may have lights that are constantly dim no matter the wattage of the installed ball. We’ll be happy to take a look at it and see if the problem is a bad neutral connection. At Buffalo Electric, we have been keeping lights burning brightly for local homeowners for many years.

Warm Outlets or Switches and Electrical Shocks

When you touch the outlets in your home, are they warm? That could mean that you’re overloading your wiring with too many gadgets. Make sure to unplug appliances when they’re not in use to prevent fires. It’s also a good idea to spread your appliances and devices around and not to rely too heavily on one outlet.

Do you receive shocks when you touch your lamps or turn them on and off? This could be a result of faulty wiring. Discontinue using the outlet until one of our professionals has time to inspect and fix it.

High Electric Bill

High electric bills may result from faulty wiring. Unplug as many unused devices and chargers as possible to help keep your bill down. You can also turn up the thermostat in the summer or turn it down in winter to minimize the use of your heating and cooling system. If necessary, you can hire an electrical professional from a trusted company, such as Buffalo Electric, to recommend upgrades that lead to energy efficiency and lower bills.

Whether you’re experiencing these or other electrical problems, you can rely on Buffalo Electric to get to the root of the issue. Our flexible financing and commitment to affordable services can help you find a way to improve your access to electrical power without breaking the bank.

Call Buffalo Electric immediately to fix your most onerous electrical issues. We have top electricians committed to providing the right solution for your family.

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How To Choose The Right Emergency Electrician For Your Home Or Business

Electricity is essential to our daily lives, powering our homes, businesses, and devices. However, electrical emergencies can occur anytime, causing inconvenience, damage, and even danger. In such situations, having access to a reliable emergency electrician can make all the difference.

Tips for Finding an Emergency Electrical Service Provider

Finding a reliable emergency electrical service provider can be daunting, especially during an electrical emergency. However, with the right approach and knowledge, you can find an available, experienced, and trustworthy electrician. Here are some tips for finding an emergency electrician that meets your needs.

Research Online

The internet is a great resource for finding emergency electrical service providers in your area. You can search for electricians on search engines, review websites, and social media platforms. Look for electricians with positive reviews and high ratings.

Check Local Directories

Local directories such as Yellow Pages and Yelp can also help you find emergency electrical service providers in your area. These directories often provide contact information, reviews, and ratings of electricians.

Ask for Referrals

Ask your friends, family, and neighbors for referrals to reliable emergency electrical service providers. They may have had positive experiences with electricians and can recommend someone they trust. Buffalo Electric provides references to prospective clients to gather more information about their services.

Check with Your Insurance Provider

Your insurance provider may have a list of recommended emergency electrical service providers that they work with. These electricians may also offer discounts to customers with insurance.

Look for Licensing and Certification

Ensure that your chosen emergency electrical service provider is licensed and certified to work in your state. This ensures they have the necessary training and expertise to handle electrical emergencies.

Consider Experience

Look for an emergency electrician with experience in handling electrical emergencies. Experienced electricians are more likely to diagnose and fix problems quickly and efficiently.

Check Availability and Response Time

Ensure the emergency electrical service provider you choose is available 24/7 and has a fast response time. Electrical emergencies can be dangerous and require immediate attention. Buffalo Electric responds quickly to local client emergencies and provides effective solutions.

Ask for a Written Estimate

Before hiring an emergency electrical service provider, ask for a written repair cost estimate. This will help you avoid surprises when it comes time to pay the bill.

Compare Prices

Compare the prices of different emergency electrical service providers to find one that fits your budget. However, don’t choose an electrician solely based on price. Quality and reliability are more important factors to consider.

Electrical Safety Practices

Electrical safety prevents electrical hazards and accidents in homes and workplaces. Following proper electrical safety practices protects yourself, your family, and your property from electrical fires, shocks, and other dangers. You can follow these practices to ensure a safe and secure environment.

Avoid Overloading Electrical Outlets

Overloading electrical outlets can cause overheating, which can lead to electrical fires. Make sure to use power strips and surge protectors with built-in circuit breakers to prevent overloading

Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)

GFCIs are designed to protect against electrical shocks by shutting off the power when a ground fault occurs. Install GFCIs in all wet areas, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas.

Keep Electrical Cords in Good Condition

Damaged electrical cords can cause electrical shocks and fires. Check cords regularly for fraying, cracking, or other damage, and replace them if necessary.

Use Electrical Appliances Safely

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using electrical appliances, and never use them near water or wet areas. Unplug appliances when not in use, and never touch them with wet hands.

Keep Flammable Materials Away from Electrical Sources

Flammable materials such as paper, cloth, and chemicals can ignite when exposed to electrical sparks or heat. Keep them away from electrical sources to prevent fires.

Hire a Licensed Electrician for Electrical Work

Licensed and qualified electricians should only perform electrical work. DIY electrical work can be dangerous and can cause electrical hazards and accidents.

Install Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can alert you to potential electrical fires and leaks. Install them in every room of your home and test them regularly.

Use Proper Lighting

Adequate lighting in your home and workplace helps prevent eye strain and accidents. Use task lighting for specific tasks and ambient lighting for general illumination.

Keep Electrical Panels and Circuit Breakers Accessible

Electrical panels and circuit breakers should be easily accessible in an emergency. Clear them of clutter and debris, and label them properly for easy identification.

Tips for Budgeting and Saving on Emergency Electrical Services

Electrical emergencies can be costly, but there are ways to budget and save on emergency electrical services. By following these tips, you can minimize the cost of emergency electrical repairs and ensure you get the best value for your money.

Plan Ahead

Planning can help you avoid emergency electrical repairs altogether. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify potential electrical problems before they become serious issues. Schedule regular inspections with a licensed electrician to catch any issues early on.

Get Multiple Quotes

When you need emergency electrical repairs, get quotes from different electricians. This will help you compare prices and find the best value for your money. However, don’t choose an electrician solely based on price. Quality and reliability are more important factors to consider.

Consider Financing Options

Some emergency electrical service providers offer financing options to help you pay for repairs over time. Consider these options if you cannot afford to pay for repairs upfront. However, read the terms and conditions carefully and understand the interest rates and fees.

If you need an emergency electrician, look no further than Buffalo Electric. Our team of licensed and experienced electricians is available 24/7 to handle any electrical emergency that may arise. We pride ourselves on providing our customers with fast, reliable, and affordable emergency electrical services. Contact us now to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services.

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Ways In Which An Electrician Can Help You Update the Electrical Panel

Electrical panels are an essential part of any home. They primarily protect your electrical systems, meaning you must always keep them updated and take good care of them. Many electrical gadgets are housed in the panel. Sometimes, replacing the entire panel or even upgrading it might be cost-prohibitive. However, there are several updates an electrician may undertake to ensure that your panel box functions optimally. Such updates make it simpler to access the panel box and its contents, and most of them include changing the panel hardware. Below are four ways your technician can help you upgrade the panel.

Clearing Obstructions and Obstacles

Based on where your electrical panel is installed, it might have some obstacles that inhibit its access or even make the housed electrical components inefficient. For instance, if your electrical panel is installed outdoors, some shrubs, vines, or bushes in your yard could be in the way of the panel. On the other hand, objects and items may be stored near the indoor electrical panel, making it hard to reach in an emergency. Ensure that the area around the panel is clear of any obstructions and obstacles that might hinder its access.

Labeling Your Breakers

Should something happen at your home that will make the circuit breaker trip, you want to be able to flip it back to the right position. However, if all the circuit breakers aren’t labeled correctly, you will not know the parts of your home the individual breakers control. Enlisting a technician to label your breakers means you will understand what each does and the appliance it controls. This makes things a lot easier for the professional if they are doing any repairs at your home. When creating the labels, the common areas or rooms are worth mentioning, ensuring anyone can easily understand which breaker affects where. However, whenever the breaker trips, you shouldn’t rush to the panel to push it into position, especially if it’s frequent or consistent. In such instances, you should have the professional inspect the electrical wiring and the affected appliance.

Grease the Latch and Door

It could get stuck if you do not open the electrical panel often. When this happens, you might have problems restarting the breakers, possibly leading to potential injuries. Hence, you should pay attention to the door hinges and latches. Ensure the electrical panel correctly opens without slowing down or stopping. The handle or latch should pull up or even open smoothly. It shouldn’t get stuck. If you notice such problems, ensure professional greases the affected parts. While you might feel that you are in a position to do this, you shouldn’t. If the grease touches any parts of the many electrical components of the panel, you could be exposed to a risk of electrocution.

Upgrading the Circuit Breakers

The circuit breaker is one of the most important protective components housed in the electrical panel. However, there are many breakers, each with very specific applications. Like any other electrical device or gadget, the breakers also experience issues like rusting, being covered with dust, or even old age. Has your breaker been tripping for no reason? You should have an electrician inspect it. One of the updates you can make to the electrical panel is upgrading the breakers to more modern and sensitive ones.

Is Updating the Electric Panel Worth It?

The electrical panel is, in most instances, installed out of sight. As such, you might employ an out-of-sight, out-of-mind approach when it comes to its maintenance. There is a high probability that you even think of it as it sits in your basement until it trips when you use a hairdryer when another person is heating food in a microwave simultaneously. Thus, you might be astonished when you reach it, only to find it covered with dust. When the day comes that you have to upgrade or even replace it, you could be shocked by the sheer high cost. However, it is well worth every penny. It even makes more sense to have had a plan with a reliable electrical services provider for maintenance to prevent anything terrible from happening. Below are reasons why it is worth upgrading.

You’ll have a Chance to Add Extra Circuits and Outlets

Electrical works aren’t an easy feat and certainly aren’t cheap. When you improve your electrical panel, you can add more outlets so that different rooms or appliances in your house can have enough electricity. You can save money on labor by doing it all at once because the electricians can complete it much more quickly.

Increases Your Home’s Safety

Electrical fires are the second most prevalent sources of structural fires. Studies have shown that about 51,000 electrical fires in homes occur every year. Unfortunately, old electrical panels or components significantly increase your exposure to fire risk at your home. Hence, updating or upgrading the panel to industry standards ensures your family is safe.

You Get More Efficient and Consistent Power

Over the past few decades, the electricity needed to power electronic devices has changed significantly, and efficiency has played a significant role. A modern electrical system and panel allow all your appliances and outlets to get the right amount of power for your needs, reducing strain on your appliances and lowering energy costs.

Always Hire Professionals

There are many other updates that you can do to your electrical panel. However, you should always hire an electrician for a minor or major upgrade. This is even more so if the panel changes include breakers and other hardware. After inspecting the panel, the professional can tell which components should be updated or whether you need to upgrade the entire panel with a new one. Doing this protects you from the dangers such as electrocution and electrical shocks.

Do you need yours upgraded or have questions about electrical panels? Contact us at Buffalo Electric today.

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