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Tips From An Electrician To Cut Down On Outdoor Power Usage
If you’re looking for ways to reduce energy consumption and save money on electricity bills, outdoor lighting is a great place to start. Outdoor lighting can be functional and aesthetically pleasing but also drain excess electricity.
Fortunately, there are ways to reduce outdoor lighting energy consumption without sacrificing safety or style. Keep reading to learn how to make outdoor lighting more energy-efficient, save money, and reduce environmental impact.
Switch to LED Lights
Switching to LED lights is one of the most effective ways to reduce energy consumption with outdoor lighting. LED stands for light-emitting diode and uses a unique technology different from traditional incandescent bulbs.
LED lights use a semiconductor material that emits light when an electric current passes through it. This technology makes LED lights much more energy-efficient than incandescent bulbs, which waste a lot of energy as heat.
Compared to incandescent bulbs, LED lights use at least 90 percent less energy; hence, you save up a lot in electricity bills in the long run. LED lights are also much more durable and last longer than traditional bulbs.
Switching to LED lights can also have a positive environmental impact. Since LED lights use less energy, they reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, LED lights do not contain hazardous materials such as mercury, which is present in incandescent bulbs. This means LED lights are safer for the environment and easier to dispose of.
Another benefit of LED lights is that you can select from a wide range of colors and designs, making it easy to find a lighting option that suits your outdoor space. LED lights have a dim feature that allows homeowners to adjust the brightness according to their needs.
Use Motion Sensors
Motion sensors are an effective way to reduce energy consumption in outdoor lighting. These sensors detect motion and automatically turn on the lights when someone is in the area. It means that outdoor lights are only on when needed, thus, reducing energy wastage and lowering electricity bills.
Motion sensors work through a combination of infrared and microwave sensors to detect movement. When someone enters the sensor’s field of view, the sensor sends a signal to the lighting fixture to turn on the lights.
Once the person leaves the area, the sensor signals to turn off the lights after a certain period. It means that outdoor lights are only on when there is activity, which helps to conserve energy.
Using motion sensors also has the added benefit of enhancing security. Outdoor lighting can deter potential intruders. They can increase visibility and make it more difficult for someone to approach your property unnoticed.
Motion sensors are also easy to install and utilize in various outdoor lighting applications, such as porch lights, floodlights, and pathway lights. Additionally, some motion sensors are programmable, allowing you to customize the sensitivity and duration of the sensor to meet your needs.
Install Timers
Installing timers is a practical and convenient solution to reducing energy consumption in outdoor lighting. With a timer, you can set specific times for outdoor lights to turn on and off automatically, ensuring they are only on when needed. Professional electricians can attest that this helps to reduce energy waste and lower electricity bills.
Outdoor lighting, such as landscape or pathway lighting, can be programmed using timers to turn on at dusk and off at dawn. By programming the timer to turn the lights on at sunset and off at sunrise, you can ensure that your outdoor lights are only on when needed. It helps conserve energy and reduces the need to remember to turn the lights on and off manually.
Installing a timer is relatively easy and can be done on most outdoor lighting fixtures. Many timers are also programmable, allowing you to set specific times and schedules for your outdoor lights to turn on and off. Some newer models of timers even offer wireless connectivity and can be controlled using a smartphone app.
Using timers also has the added benefit of extending the lifespan of your outdoor lights. Reducing the time your lights are on helps to extend their lifespan and reduce the need for replacement. It can save you money in the long run, as you won’t have to replace your outdoor lights as frequently.
Choose the Right Fixtures
Choosing the right fixtures reduces energy consumption. By selecting fixtures designed for energy efficiency, you can minimize energy waste and lower your electricity bills. An electrician provides expert advice on energy-efficient fixtures and ensures safe and correct installation.
One key feature to look for in energy-efficient fixtures is reflectors that direct the light where it’s needed. It ensures that the light is used effectively and not wasted by shining in the wrong direction or dissipating into the air. Many fixtures with reflectors also use LED bulbs, known for their energy efficiency and long lifespan.
When selecting fixtures for your outdoor lighting, consider the type of bulb used and its energy efficiency. LED bulbs are the most energy-efficient option.
Brighten Up Your Outdoors While Saving Energy
Contact Buffalo Electric today for all your outdoor lighting needs! Our team of professional electricians can help you choose the right fixtures and install them properly to reduce energy consumption and lower your electricity bills. Call us or visit our website to schedule an appointment.
Final Thoughts
Outdoor lighting is a crucial aspect of any property, but it can also be a significant source of energy consumption. By following these tips, you can reduce your energy consumption and lower your electricity bills while still enjoying the benefits of outdoor lighting.
If you need help with outdoor lighting installation or repairs, contact a professional electrician who can help you choose the right fixtures and install them properly.
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Preventing Your Outdoor Lights From Failing Prematurely: Do You Need An Electrician‘s Intervention?
Outdoor lighting is a great way to enhance your home’s landscape and add curb appeal while increasing safety and security. But what happens when your outdoor lights fail prematurely? A malfunctioning lighting fixture can give way to several issues – from higher energy bills to safety hazards. However, did you know that most outdoor lights fail prematurely because of some common mistakes that could be easily avoided? In this blog post, we’ll outline how to prevent your outdoor lights from failing prematurely and when you should consider an electrician’s intervention.
Use Appropriate Lightbulbs
One of the most common reasons outdoor lights fail prematurely is inappropriate lightbulbs. You must use the appropriate bulbs that can withstand outdoor elements like wind, humidity, and rain. Using incandescent bulbs can be a recipe for disaster because they’re not designed for outdoor use. LED bulbs and CFLs are energy-efficient options offering long-lasting and reliable performance without generating excessive heat. LED bulbs don’t emit heat, which is an advantage, especially in outdoor lighting. Heat can cause bulbs to deteriorate faster, which is why LED bulbs last longer than incandescent bulbs. Additionally, LED bulbs are robust and highly resistant to shocks and impact.
Invest in Quality Fixtures
Investing in quality fixtures is a smart way to ensure that your outdoor lights will not fail prematurely. While it may be tempting to buy cheaper options, they often lack the durability and weather resistance necessary to withstand the elements. Quality fixtures, however, are designed with sturdier materials and more advanced technology that can help prolong their lifespan. Not only will this save you the time and hassle of constantly replacing your outdoor lights, but it can also save you money in the long run. After all, investing in quality fixtures upfront is much more cost-effective than continuously replacing cheaper options. Plus, with the bonus of energy efficiency of most high-quality light fixtures, you can save money on your energy bill while still enjoying the stunning look of your outdoor lighting.
Proper Installation
Another common mistake that homeowners make is poor installation. If you don’t have the necessary skills, expertise, or tools, then hiring a professional electrician is always better. DIY installations without the proper knowledge could lead to improper wiring or exposure to the elements, both of which can lead to the premature failure of your outdoor lights. Experienced technicians will consider important factors like the type of fixtures, wiring, and the proper placement of the lighting system. Professional installation will ensure that your outdoor lighting system is properly installed and the wiring is safe and secure, ensuring that your lighting system will operate as intended.
Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial in keeping your outdoor lights in good shape. Failure to maintain them can result in premature failure, leaving you in the dark when you need your outdoor lighting most. From replacing light bulbs, cleaning bulbs, and lenses to checking the wiring and making necessary repairs, maintaining outdoor lighting is pivotal in preventing failures. Not only does it ensure you always have a well-lit exterior, but it also saves you money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements. If you notice any damage to the outdoor fixtures or electrical systems, have a qualified electrician repair them immediately.
Protect from the Elements
Weather patterns such as extreme heat, humidity, and wind can affect the lifespan of your outdoor light bulbs. It’s essential to protect your lights from harsh weather conditions by using weather-friendly materials and proper placement. For example, use PVC covers or high-grade glass to protect the lights’ globes from water ingress or buildup. Adequate placement will ensure you don’t put your outdoor lights in areas prone to weather damage.
Avoid Overuse
Outdoor lighting can add a beautiful touch to any home, but it’s important to remember to avoid overuse if you want your lights to shine brightly for years to come. While outdoor lights are designed to withstand the elements, using them excessively can overwhelm and cause them to fail prematurely. Additionally, overuse can lead to overheating, which can trip your circuit breaker and cause other electrical problems. It’s important to balance between enjoying your lights’ ambiance and allowing them enough time to cool down between uses.
One of the best ways of avoiding overuse is by installing timers and dimmers. Timers can automatically turn the lights on and off at specific times, reducing the need for manual operation and decreasing the chances of them being left on unnecessarily. On the other hand, Dimmers can help regulate the amount of electricity flowing to the bulbs, which can be particularly useful for incandescent lights. By using these simple tools, you can help protect your outdoor lights from premature failure and save on energy costs in the long run.
Enjoy the Benefits of Outdoor Lights Without the Worry
Outdoor lighting systems can add much value to your property and make it look fantastic. However, the frustrations of premature failures and expensive replacements can quickly take that away. Nevertheless, following the tips above ensures that your outdoor lights will last many years. From hiring a professional electrician to properly install and maintain the fixtures and wiring, proper planning and care are essential in preserving your outdoor lighting system’s longevity. With a little effort, you can create a beautiful and well-lit exterior that you can enjoy for many years.
Need Help Handling Your Outdoor Lights? Call Us Today!
At Buffalo Electric, we understand how important it is to have a properly functioning and well-maintained outdoor lighting system, so don’t hesitate to give us a call if you need help. Our team of qualified professionals is highly experienced in installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems, so you can rest assured that your lights will be managed efficiently and effectively. Contact us today to see how we can help you enjoy the benefits of outdoor lighting without any worries.
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Have Trees In Your Yard Fallen On Electrical Cables? Reasons To Enlist An Emergency Electrician
In today’s technology and systems advancements, almost every appliance, device, and system in your home depends on electricity. As a result, homes are more comfortable, efficient, and elegant due to electricity provision. Electricity also plays a crucial role in maintaining your family’s health and well-being. However, electricity has a flip side. If not well maintained, electricity has the potential to harm those you love and obliterate your home. Therefore, it is vital to have a reliable emergency electrician to call upon when things go wrong. An electrical technician will help you install, manage, and fix your electrical gadgets to ensure the safety of your home. This article will highlight the dangers of falling trees on overhead lines and how to survive these times.
Electrical Shock
The other danger your home faces is an electrical shock from trees falling on overhead lines. Although electricity has impeccable advantages for your home, it can cause undesirable things such as electrical shock. Electricity to operate seamlessly in your home requires an electrical technician to install and regularly manage it. This is because there are principles to its connection that ensure it’s flowing as it should. If these connections are not observed, the electricity in your home will have side effects such as electric shock.
For instance, the primary purpose of an earth wire in every electrical circuit and component is to discharge the system and lead stray electrical current to the ground. Consequently, your home and electrical components are safer. However, a tree falling on an electrical line bridges the current-carrying electrical wires and the earth wire. Consequently, the tree leads electrical current in the earth wire, making it charged. If anyone in your home touches the surface of an appliance, they experience an electric shock.
If the fallen tree is wet, it becomes a conductor of electricity once it touches the electrical line. Therefore, it is a potential danger to anyone who touches it since electricity can lead to electric shock or more severe dangers depending on its intensity. Therefore, when a tree falls on the power line in your backyard, do not touch or try to move it. Contact a skilled emergency electrician to handle it. The technician has the appropriate tools, equipment, and protective clothing, such as gloves, to handle the situation safely. After removing the tree, the technician will restore conducive electricity flow to your home and ensure it is safe.
Power Outages
Power outages are the first significant side effect of trees falling on electrical wires. When a tree or its branches fall on electrical lines, the highest possibility is that your home will experience a power outage. This is because electrical conductors which supply your home with electricity are not equipped to handle heavy loads. Although the materials used in the wires may have a high tensile strength, the immediate and forceful nature of a falling tree will disconnect the wires from the poles or tear the strands of the wires. However, this depends on the force of the tree as it falls and how heavy the tree is.
Conversely, if the tree fall is close to a transformer, the tree fall might break the wire connections to the transformer resulting in a power outage in your home. Although this might seem normal, the power loss will lead to inconveniences such as a lack of heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, and other electricity-reliant systems in your home, like the internet. In addition, power outages result in strained emergency resources and the isolation of your home. Therefore, your family will be isolated and un-informed of what is happening in a weather warning.
Electrocution
Although trees are not good conductors of electricity, during rainstorms, the water goes through the tree, making it wet and a good conductor. Therefore, it conducts electricity, making it a disaster waiting to happen. When a member of your family comes in contact with the tree, it is like touching the naked electrical line the tree is lining. If the tree is leaning on an electrical wire and touches a pool of water in the ground, the water becomes instantly charged with electricity, which is hazardous.
If an animal or a member of your family touches the water or the tree, they face the risk of electrocution, which can lead to dire consequences such as paralysis or even death. Therefore, immediately contact an emergency electrician and a professional tree service when you notice a tree in contact with an electrical wire. Also, it is best to avoid the area since the tree might be charging other items on the ground with an electrical current.
Power Surges
When a tree falls on an electrical power line, it disrupts the normal flow of electricity to your home. This can result in excess voltage in your electrical system, damaging the electrical appliances connected to the electrical system. Additionally, power surges can lead to property damage and loss of life through electrical fires.
Fire Hazard
One of the significant side effects of electricity in any setting is its capability to cause a fire. The primary reason why an electrical circuit, system, or appliance is safe for use is that different lines, both negative and positive, carry current in different wires. When the wires combine, it is in a controlled environment.
Therefore, when the terminals of an electrical system come into contact in an uncontrolled environment, they complete the circuit and amplify the capabilities of each wire. Since the electricity flowing between the wires is too much, it can cause an electrical arc that ignites the nearby materials resulting in a fire. Therefore, contact an emergency electrician when you notice a fallen tree touching the overhead electrical wires.
Have trees fallen on electrical cables at your home? Contact us at Buffalo Electric. Our team of technicians is available 24/7 to isolate such electrical dangers caused by fallen trees and keep your family safe.
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Electrical Submetering: Top Reasons Why It Makes A Difference By A Certified Electrician
When building a property, there are fundamental things you must consider for your structure to be complete. For instance, a well-installed electrical system helps your home have power availability by efficiently connecting you to the electrical grid. An electrical system will also keep your home running effectively by supplying major areas with electrical power. Therefore, choosing the right electrical system components is crucial in making your home comfortable. In addition, knowing your property’s electrical needs and having a certified electrician to help you acquire them will also be helpful. This article will highlight all there is to know about submetering to help you know if they are a good fit for your home.
What is Electrical Submetering?
When looking for an electrical metering solution for your property, the market might be confusing with all the available options. However, to discern the best method well, it is vital to understand all the available options. Therefore, the best part to start is knowing what electrical metering is.
Electrical metering is a method a power provision company uses to help you measure the amount of energy your home uses per month. The utility company’s electrician installs a meter in your home that runs depending on your property’s power consumption. The technician then determines your monthly power charge. Notably, although this might be very efficient if you are an average homeowner with a single usage point, it becomes more complicated when your property has several usage points or more than one unit.
Therefore, if you are a landlord with a couple of units, traditional metering methods may not suit you because how will you charge your tenants? How will you know each person’s electricity usage if there is just one meter? Therefore, electrical submetering is the best solution for a couple of units.
In an electrical submetering system, the meter from the utility company acts as the master or main meter and measures the electricity usage of the whole property. However, the property owner installs additional meters, or submeters, on the property’s electrical system. Each meter installed is under the master but records power usage in its respective unit. Therefore, the submeters measure each unit’s electricity consumption differently, and the main meter keeps track of the entire property’s consumption. Therefore, it is possible to charge each tenant separately and fairly since it is only their consumption.
Why is Submetering Important?
Although submetering may sound like a complicated system, a skilled electrical installation technician will install the system efficiently and effectively. Some of the reasons why submetering your property’s electrical system circuit include;
Easy and Accurate Billing
The first notable reason a property owner should submeter their electrical system is for easy and accurate billing. When billing each unit in your property directly without a sub-metered system, you, as a property owner, are bound to make a mistake and bill one unit more or less than their actual electrical consumption.
In addition, if your utility company does not bill each unit on your property, it falls under your jurisdiction to ensure that the tenants get fair and accurate billing from the primary meter consumption. However, determining each unit’s electricity consumption can take time and effort, especially if there are many units. Therefore, you will usually estimate, which does not give actual usage. Consequently, some clients will be charged more or less than their actual consumption since different tenants have different energy usage.
Therefore, to make the billing process more accessible and more accurate, it is best to use submeters for each unit. Apart from each tenant paying for their electricity usage, submetering will eliminate the need to identify each unit’s bill, thus easing your work and saving you time.
Notably, you can also incorporate an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), which makes submetering more convenient. An AMI does not need an electrician to take the reading each month; the reading is done remotely and sent to an app-based interference where you can read the data.
Reduce Energy and Cut Costs
The other reason submetering makes a difference is its ability to reduce energy consumption and save costs. In industrial settings, submetering helps to cluster departments into sections and allocate the necessary energy costs to each department. Therefore, this helps every department monitor its energy consumption and make the necessary changes to be more energy efficient.
Similarly, submetering helps each tenant in property management to identify their electricity usage, which makes them more energy conscious. Consequently, the tenants will make the necessary changes to cut their energy usage if they overuse electricity. Most property owners notice up to a 30% drop in energy consumption after introducing submetering.
Notably, lowering energy usage in homes can result in a positive feedback loop in saving since most of the money is not being used for energy bills or electrical repairs due to unnecessary breakdown of appliances.
Increases Your Property Value
Whether you are building a new or remodeling an existing property, adding submetering to your property helps increase the value of your assets. For starters, it will help tenants manage and minimize their energy usage and eliminates the need for an electrician to fix breakdowns. This will give it an advantage over the other properties, making it a choice for most tenants. On the other hand, submetering will help you realize where energy is lost in your property and how to save it. Therefore, it sets a foundation for energy efficiency.
High energy efficiency is an outstanding quality in a property, especially when aiming to sell it. Therefore, your property will easily attract potential buyers, tenants, and investors who want to save their money.
Submetering Installation Services
Are you considering incorporating submeters into your property? Contact us today at Buffalo Electric for any submetering-related services. Our highly skilled and qualified professionals will advise you on all matters of submetering and help you install the best for your property.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
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The Importance Of Proper Electrical Installation By A Licensed Electrician
Proper electrical installation is crucial for ensuring the safety and efficiency of your home’s electrical systems. Faulty wiring, outdated equipment, and DIY installations can lead to dangerous electrical hazards, equipment damage, and costly repairs. That’s why hiring a licensed electrician with the necessary expertise and skills to perform electrical installations correctly is essential.
Safety
Proper electrical installation is crucial for ensuring the safety of your home and family. Electrical hazards like faulty wiring, damaged outlets, and outdated equipment can lead to electrocution, electrical fires, and costly repairs. Therefore, hiring a professional to install, maintain, and repair your home’s electrical systems is essential.
Protects from Electrical Hazards
A professional can help protect your home and family from electrical hazards. They possess the necessary skills and expertise to identify potential hazards, such as overloaded circuits or exposed wiring, and rectify them before they become dangerous to your household. Regular inspections by a professional can also ensure that your electrical systems function correctly and safely.
Prevents Electrical Fires
Electrical fires are a serious concern for homeowners. Faulty wiring, damaged outlets, and outdated equipment can lead to electrical fires that may cause significant property damage, personal injury, or even death. A licensed electrician can prevent these fires by ensuring that your electrical systems are installed correctly, maintained regularly, and repaired promptly.
Reduces Risk of Electrocution
Electrocution is a severe risk associated with electrical systems. It can cause serious injury or even death, particularly if the victim is exposed to high voltages. An expert can reduce the risk of electrocution by providing expert installation, maintenance, and repair services.
Efficiency
Proper electrical installation can help improve the efficiency of your home’s electrical systems. This can result in lower energy bills, reduced equipment downtime, and optimal performance.
Ensures Optimal Electrical Performance
Professional electrical installation ensures that your home’s electrical systems perform optimally. This includes proper wiring, grounding, and equipment installation. An efficient system can help reduce energy consumption and costs and prevent equipment damage.
Reduces Energy Waste and Costs
An efficient electrical system can help reduce energy waste and costs. Professional installation ensures that your electrical systems are installed correctly and functioning efficiently. This can lead to significant energy savings over time and lower energy bills for your home.
Prevents Equipment Damage and Downtime
Faulty electrical systems can cause equipment damage and downtime, resulting in costly repairs and inconvenience. Professional installation can prevent this by ensuring that your electrical systems are installed correctly and maintained regularly. This can help increase the lifespan of your equipment and reduce the risk of costly downtime.
Compliance
Proper electrical installation is important for safety and efficiency, and compliance with building codes and regulations. Failure to comply can result in legal and financial penalties.
Meets Building Codes and Regulations
Professional installation ensures your home’s electrical systems meet building codes and regulations. This includes proper wiring, grounding, and equipment installation. Compliance with these regulations is essential for the safety of your home and family.
Passes Electrical Inspections
The professional electrical installation can help ensure that your home passes electrical inspections. Inspections must verify that your home’s electrical systems meet safety and regulatory requirements. Failure to pass an inspection can result in costly repairs and delays in completing your project.
Prevents Legal and Financial Penalties
Failure to comply with building codes and regulations can result in legal and financial penalties. These penalties can be severe, resulting in costly fines or even lawsuits. By hiring an electrician for proper electrical installation, you can ensure that your home complies with regulations and avoid these penalties.
Longevity
Proper electrical installation is crucial to any building’s safety and functionality. Hiring a licensed professional for this job brings numerous benefits that go beyond mere compliance with codes and regulations.
Extends Lifespan of Electrical Systems
By ensuring that your electrical components are installed correctly, a skilled professional can help extend the lifespan of your electrical systems. This is because improper installation can lead to premature failure due to wiring issues, overloading, or other problems. A licensed professional will follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and industry best practices to ensure that your electrical components are installed correctly, preventing potential damage and increasing the lifespan of your systems.
Reduces the Need for Repairs and Replacements
A professional installation can also reduce the need for costly repairs or replacements. Faulty wiring, improper grounding, and other installation issues can cause damage to electrical equipment, leading to safety hazards and the need for repairs or replacements. By preventing these issues from occurring in the first place, a licensed professional can save you time and money on future repairs and replacements.
Increases Value of Property
In addition to increasing safety and functionality, a professional electrical installation can also increase the value of your property. A safe and reliable electrical system is attractive to potential buyers or renters, who are more likely to trust a building’s electrical system when a licensed professional has installed it. This can help increase the market value of your property, making it a worthwhile investment.
Peace of Mind
The proper electrical installation brings peace of mind to homeowners and business owners alike. It ensures that your electrical system is safe, reliable, and functioning optimally.
Guarantees Quality Workmanship
A licensed professional guarantees quality workmanship, which is essential for a safe and reliable electrical system. They have the training, experience, and tools necessary to perform electrical work efficiently and effectively. Moreover, a licensed professional follows industry best practices and safety guidelines, ensuring that your electrical system is installed correctly and functions optimally.
Provides Assurance and Satisfaction
A professional electrical installation provides assurance and satisfaction, knowing your electrical system is in good hands. Licensed professionals take pride in their work and strive to provide excellent customer service. They will answer any questions and provide regular updates throughout the installation process, ensuring you are informed and satisfied with their work.
Proper electrical installation is vital for the safety, longevity, and functionality of any building. Hiring a licensed electrician brings peace of mind, eliminates worry and stress, guarantees quality workmanship, and increases the value of your property. For professional and reliable electrical services, contact Buffalo Electric today.
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