Here are the Best Ways To Stay Cool in The Texas Heat.

Tips for staying safe in Dallas during the summer

In Texas, summers are hot.

We will see plenty of triple-digit temperatures in Dallas over the coming months. Summer temperatures are rising, so staying safe and cool is crucial.

Every year, hundreds of people die as a result of high temperatures. There are preventable causes of heat-related death and illness in the United States, yet more than 700 people are killed each year by extreme heat.

Keeping cool, staying hydrated, and staying informed are essential. Overheating can cause sickness. You can get sick when your body cannot compensate for the heat and cool you down appropriately. It is important to note that the following factors affect your body’s ability to cool itself during scorching weather:

  • An extremely high humidity level. Sweat won’t evaporate as quickly when the humidity is high. As a result, your body may be unable to release heat as fast as needed.
  • There are personal factors involved. The heat a person can handle depends on a person’s age, obesity, fever, dehydration, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, sunburn, and prescription drug and alcohol use.

Whenever you are working or playing outdoors, find shade and take lots of breaks. Pets and children should never be left in your car. The highest risk group is people 65 and older, children younger than two, and those suffering from chronic diseases or mental illness. You should closely monitor people who depend on you for their care. It is wonderful to bask in the sunshine, but extreme heat can be fatal for young and old, pregnant women, and those with chronic diseases. There’s no escaping the heat, both outside and inside.

Drinking water is a given, but many other ways to stay hydrated exist. Changing your bedding are no-sweat ways to stay cool this summer. You can enjoy the breeze with a bowl of ice in front of a fan if it is hot but not humid. The ice will cool you as it melts and evaporates. Cooling yourself off in the summer is as simple as spritzing yourself. Store a spray bottle in your refrigerator, and mist yourself whenever the weather gets hot. The water evaporates, and it cools you.

Whenever possible, wear thin, light-colored cotton that is loose and loose-fitting. It’s best if sweat evaporates directly from the skin to the air. There’s a strange truth about spicy foods: they’re good for cooling you off. The heat from spicy food increases blood circulation, which leads to sweating. Furthermore, sweating cools you down after it cools down.

Heat-related illnesses can be prevented by following these precautions:

  • Aim to stay out of direct sunlight and in the shade
  • During the day, limit outdoor activities between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. since these are the hottest hours
  • Dress in light colors and lightweight materials to get into gear
  • Stay hydrated and drink lots of water
  • Use sunscreen with a high SPF as often as possible
  • Eat light meals to feel cooler
  • Wipe your forehead with a cool cloth
  • Avoid using your stove or oven if possible
  • Turn on a Window Fan at Night
  • Whenever possible, stay in an air-conditioned indoor location.

If you are experiencing any electrical problems in your homes then visit Blessed Electric today for an expert to come out and help with any service needed!

Choosing the Right Electrical Panel for Your Home: Factors to Consider

An electric panel is a crucial component of any building’s electrical system. It distributes electricity throughout the system and ensures that each circuit receives accurate power. The panel contains circuit breakers that protect the circuits from overloading and causing a fire.

However, installing a faulty or improper electric panel can be extremely dangerous. A faulty panel can cause electrical fires, electrocution, and even death. The consequences of a faulty panel are not to be taken lightly. If you are in Irving and need electrical panel installation or repair, choosing a licensed and experienced electrician is important.

Factors to consider while choosing the right electrical panel

Do you want to avoid experiencing frequent electrical issues in your home or office? It’s time to choose the right electrical panel! Here are some factors that will help to choose the right electrical panel:

Amperage rating: Article 409 of the­ National Electrical Code (NEC) states that e­very electric pane­l should bear a label indicating its short-circuit current rating (SCCR). This rating indicates the highest level of short-circuit current that the panel can handle without causing harm to its components or starting a fire. 

Generally, a 100-amp main is suitable for most households, but some builders now install <150-amp or 200-amp services to ensure sufficient capacity. However, in Round Rock and other regions, electricians avoid using electrical panels rated at 60 amps or less because they are inadequate for modern needs.

Voltage rating: The voltage rating of an electric panel is typically determined by the maximum voltage of the electrical system it is serving. In Dallas, Texas, and other states, the electricians use the standard nominal and preferred standard nominal voltages for 60 Hz power systems are listed in ANSI C84.1. For residential homes with single-phase service, the voltage rating is typically 120/240 volts, with some rated at 125/250 volts.

Number of circuits: The number of circuits in an electrical panel refers to the number of individual electrical circuits that can be connected to the panel. The specific number of circuits can vary depending on the size and capacity of the panel, as well as the electrical needs of the home or building. However, in DFW and other regions, electricians use the commonly used panel typically has around 20 to 60 circuits.

Enclosure type: The enclosure type in an electrical panel refers to the housing type containing the electrical components and wiring. The most commonly used enclosure type for electrical panels is NEMA 1, a standard type that provides basic protection against dust, dirt, and accidental contact with the live components.

Material of construction: The material of construction used in electrical panels is typically metal, such as steel or aluminum. The pane­l’s durability and resistance against heat and e­lectrical currents largely de­pend on the chosen mate­rials. Steel remains a top conte­nder for larger panels, while­ aluminum is an excellent option for smalle­r or lightweight ones. In Dallas and nearby regions, an electrician can suggest which panel is best. 

Type of circuit breakers: An ele­ctrical panel typically holds various types of circuit breake­rs, including standard, AFCI, and GFCI variants. Among these, the most commonly used models, alongside conventional ones, are AFCI and GFCI circuit breake­rs.

AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) circuit breakers are designed to detect and prevent electrical arcs, which can occur when a loose or damaged wire is in your home’s electrical system. However, GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) circuit breakers are designed to protect against electrical shock in areas where water may be present, such as bathrooms and kitchens. 

Choosing between them depends upon your preference, and if you live in Arlington or surrounding areas, it is best to consult an electrician.

Grounding system: The type of grounding system used in an electrical panel is typically a grounding electrode conductor (GEC) that connects the electrical panel to a grounding electrode, such as a metal water pipe or a grounding rod. The purpose of grounding is to provide a path of less resistance for electrical current to flow in a fault or surge, which helps protect people and equipment from electrical shock or damage.

It plays a crucial role in choosing the panel, as it must be compatible with the grounding system to ensure proper functioning. The panel must have a grounding bar and accommodate the required number and size of grounding wires.

Bottom line:

When it come­s to choosing the right electrical pane­l for your home, there are­ several considerations to ke­ep in mind, such as the size of your home­, power requireme­nts, and budget.

By investing in a high-quality ele­ctrical panel, you can rest assured that the home­’s electrical system is powe­red by a safe and reliable­ source. In Dallas and surrounding regions, Blessed Electric and Air Electricians can help make a well-informed decision. Contact our experts at (214)801-5755 or visit our website today!

DFW Electrician, Is It Time to Hire One?

Why it may be time to hire a DFW electrician 

Do you have any experience with electricity-related problems at home? How did you resolve the issue? Have you searched Google or watched a YouTube video and tried to fix the problem yourself, OR have you called a licensed electrician? One thing for sure about electricity, it is that it is always challenging. Therefore, I want to issue a warning to those who are considering DIY electrical work. Attempting to solve an electrical issue is dangerous, and it can cause you to burn your fingers and even be lethal if you don’t have the knowledge and experience.

Furthermore, electrical DIYs are illegal and can jeopardize insurance claims since they can cause fires, leading to more extensive property damage. In the event of an electrical problem, what should you do? First, you should contact a licensed DFW electrician. With their advanced training and equipment, they will protect you from danger, tackle risky tasks, and save you from further problems. Professional electricians need at least four years of apprenticeship training before becoming licensed. That’s hours and hours of electrical experience. Besides that, they must also hold a license in the DFW area or the city where they work. You can learn more about what professional electricians can do here. Homeowner needs to understand when to call in an expert electrician near them when they see red flags. The following warning signs indicate that you need to hire an electrician:

Circuit breakers are frequently tripping.

A tripped circuit breaker is fine if it just happens now and then. Still, a tripped circuit breaker is another story if it keeps tripping. A shortage in wiring or too many high-power devices is usually responsible for overloading. In any case, you’ll need a licensed DFW electrician to upgrade the circuit breaker or repair some wiring. Ignoring this warning may result in an electrical fire!

Burnt smell that cannot be identified

If you can’t find the source of that persistent burning smell in one of your rooms, it’s coming from behind the walls. Various factors, including old wiring or short circuits, could cause this. If you can identify the unusual smell and trace it to an electrical outlet or fuse box, turn off the power immediately and call a professional. Furthermore, you notice any discoloration in your outlets besides the smell. In that case, burning behind your walls results in sparks or small fires. Again, it doesn’t matter whether you can identify the source; a burnt smell indicates the possibility of a fire igniting at any moment.

The main service panel shows signs of deterioration

The main service panel is the heart of your home’s electricity system. Any signs of deterioration or visible wear and tear, like rust, should prompt you to call your trusted electrician. The technician will be able to determine if your service panel requires repair or replacement.

The use of extension cords is excessive.

It is not recommended to use extension cords for an extended period. Having multiple extension cords, plugging them into power strips, or making them a permanent fixture in your rooms indicates that you need more outlets. Your family’s needs should select a room’s outlets. In areas where outlets are lacking, a licensed DFW electrician can install them. You will be able to provide additional outlets to your family and improve safety.

The outlet is hot or warm to the touch.

An outlet that is hot or warm is not a good sign. There is an overload in this case, or the wiring is bad. If you plug a device into an outlet, it will get warm only then. To properly assess the problem, you will need to call a DFW electrician.

Your house is old

Suppose you own a house built more than twenty years ago. It is, therefore, necessary to upgrade the electrical system. Your home was built with electrical standards that changed over time.

A flickering dimming light bulb or a light bulb that does not last

The LED light is terrific and energy-efficient and lasts longer than conventional lights. However, if your bulbs don’t last or are flickering, your socket or circuit might be the problem. Light bulbs can always be replaced, but that’s a temporary solution. To identify and solve the problem, you should call an electrician.

Are you moving to a new home?

You have just purchased your first home! Congratulations! However, before you move in or sign any paperwork, let a licensed DFW electrician inspect your home’s electrical system. In order to prevent any potential problems before moving into your new home, you can hire an electrician to assess your property and make recommendations, as well as repair or replace what is necessary. Therefore, your family is guaranteed to be safe.

You are frequently shocked (even by minor shocks).

When you turn on a light switch, do you get shocked? In most cases, electrical shocks will not cause pain immediately, but it’s important not to ignore them. It means that electricity is escaping from your circuit. There is also a possibility that it will escalate into a fire. So turn off the switch and call your electrician immediately rather than investigating the probable cause.

A rodent chews on a wire.

When rodents chew on your wiring, they can cause an electrical fire or system failure. Call in an electrician to assess the damage and provide a solution in addition to fixing your rodent problem (Call pest control!).

A sparking outlet

The sparking of outlets indicates electricity problems. Many reasons can cause the spark, including short circuits, negligence, water exposure, and old outlets. But first, make sure a certified electrician resolves the issue.

Electricity-related installations or repairs

You should never DIY anything related to electricity (except maybe changing a light bulb). It seems easy to watch YouTube videos, but installations are serious. Examples of these installations or repairs include:

  • Installing an electrical outlet.
  • Installing an intelligent home system.
  • Installing a new ceiling fan.
  • Repairing a light fixture.
  • Remodeling the home.
  • Installing whole-house surge protection.
  • Installing pool lighting.
  • Installing an electrical panel.

It may seem like you’re saving a few bucks, but in reality, you are making a risky move that could endanger your family. Moreover, it is illegal and non-compliant with building codes.

If you have any questions about electricity

If there’s anything you think should be added, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals in Round Rock. As a non-electrician, you are not qualified to handle possible electrical problems. Never wait; it is better to be safe than risk your life. In this modern age, we cannot survive without electricity, which is very useful. The dangers and complexity of electricity are relatively easy to overlook. Death and severe injury are possible as a result of it. Simple mistakes can have serious consequences.

To avoid electrical hazards, consult an electrician. Trust the professionals to keep your family safe. If you plan on hiring an electrician, ensure they have a valid license and ask for their specialty (i.e., if they specialize in residential homes). Remember to ask if they have liability insurance and a warranty when you set up a project.

Here at Blessed Electric and Air, we aim to make your home operate smoothly. Our basic times of operation span from Monday through Friday, 8 AM-7 PM, and Saturday from 8 AM-1 PM. Anytime after those hours will be looked at as an EMERGENCY SERVICE CALL. No matter how many services are performed, rates and charges go up.

The Importance of Electrical Maintenance for Commercial Properties

Electricity is important to power the lights brightening our homes and the devices that connect us with everyone. However, this vital resource often requires careful use and implementation. 

That said when it comes to commercial properties, a safe and dependable electrical system can help ensure the smooth operation of daily tasks. That’s why ensuring proper electrical maintenance for commercial properties is important.

This article will explore why a safe and dependable electrical system can ensure every building’s infrastructure. 

Why is Electrical Maintenance Necessary for Commercial Properties?

Commercial property owners and managers understand the need to maintain reliable and secure electrical systems. As a result, they conduct routine electrical maintenance on the properties. Some reasons why conducting regular electrical repair is essential are provided below:

Avoiding Accidents and Mishaps

The reliability of the building’s electrical systems is crucial to its day-to-day operations. Maintaining all of the machinery, appliances, and power outlets at your place of work is essential to avoid accidents and keep everything running smoothly and safely. Our Irving Electrician business maintenance services will also help your electrical appliances last longer.

Preserving Your Stuff

As a commercial building manager, you are responsible for the safety of the building, including workers, customers, or tenants. 

Major safety hazards, such as electrical fires, may result from faults with your electrical system. Although these hazards may be seemingly minor, they can still harm your electrical appliances such as TV, fridge, etc. Proper electrical maintenance helps keep the troubles at bay and preserve your stuff for years.

Curbing Major Electrical Issues

There might be severe issues with the electrical system in your commercial property, even though everything seems to be running well. At Round Rock Electrician, we provide exceptional electrical maintenance services to spot minor faults before they escalate into big disasters. 

Your Property’s Energy Bills May Go Down as a Result

One of the primary benefits of regular electrical maintenance is that it allows our expert electricians to detect and fix any minor issues. Various problems can affect your electrical equipment, some of which may not be apparent. 

These issues can cause your equipment to use more energy than necessary. It results in higher energy bills and potential breakdowns. With regular electrical maintenance, we can identify and resolve these problems to ensure your equipment is functioning efficiently and effectively. 

Major Electrical Problems Are Avoided

Although your electrical system may appear to be running smoothly, there could be underlying issues that seriously threaten the safety of your building’s occupants. That’s why it’s essential to have regular maintenance checks and comprehensive inspections carried out by licensed professionals such as Arlington Electricians.

These inspections can detect potential problems early on to allow troubleshooting before they escalate into major safety hazards. You can ensure the safety and welfare of everyone in your building by identifying and resolving these issues early.

Avoid Future Repair Costs and Save Money

When you own a company or commercial building, spending money on electrical system upkeep seems irresponsible if everything is running well.

Remember that the goal of our Dallas Electrician business electrical repair services is to save costs for you. Keeping up with routine maintenance may help you reduce the number of costly repairs to your electrical system.

Final Verdict!

A company’s best efficient way to function is to have a comprehensive electrical maintenance plan. The risk of fire and electrical shock caused by faulty electrical equipment may be reduced and eliminated with the help of a preventive maintenance program.

The repair and labor costs alone for a commercial electrical emergency may easily run into thousands of dollars, not to mention the disruption to corporate operations. Hence hiring professional and reliable Commercial Electrical maintenance services like DFW Electrician are essential to avoid all business and property loss. Contact us for the best Commercial Electrical maintenance service!

Irving Texas, Several Things an Electrician Can Help you with!

Keeping your home’s electrical system efficient is essential. We recommend having a team of highly qualified technicians in Irving on standby for your home to run at its best. A home’s electrical service affects almost every system and shouldn’t be tampered with.

Upgrades to Electrical Systems 

Keeping your electrical system safe and efficient may require upgrades if you live in an older home. Also as a result of upgrading your home, you can add more outlets and lastly improve how electricity flows throughout your house. In addition, the cost of your electric bill can be dramatically reduced by replacing your wiring and breaker box.

Installing, Maintaining, Repairing, and Replacing Electrical equipment

Our primary services in the Irving electrician Tx area include installation, maintenance, repair, and replacement. Our professionals can perform these types of electrical services on any system in your home. It is essential to keep your home running smoothly at all times. Work they can do includes Outlet switches, appliances, ceiling fans, indoor or outdoor lighting, electrical installations, electrical repairs, and electrical maintenance.

Correcting and inspecting codes

Always hire a licensed Irving electrician to ensure that all local building codes are met with an electrical inspection when upgrading or adding an appliance. In addition, a building inspector must approve any electrical work you have done on your home to prove it complies with safety standards.

 A Surge Protector

Sometimes the problem with your home’s electrical system is inadequate surge protection. Surge protection for your entire home will ensure that all your electronic devices, lighting, and other power-dependent items remain powered.

Breaker Panels & Circuit Breakers

If you require circuit breaker repair or panel replacement, you want to avoid taking a chance with an inexperienced technician. As a team, we have qualified Irving electricians on hand to complete the job efficiently.

A Generator

Generators are a must-have when there is a chance of severe weather or a power outage. Occasionally, weather-related power outages can occur here in Irving, Texas. But no matter what happens to your electricity, a quality generator will keep you and your family cool and cozy. No matter what type of generator you have, our technicians can repair, replace, or maintain it.

Lighting for the Outdoors

Adding outdoor lighting to your home or family can provide protection and efficiency for outdoor activities. Our electrical technicians can install or repair your outdoor lighting to ensure it operates when needed. We can also install security and dusk-to-dawn lights for Irving, Texas homes.

How to Choose the Best Electrician 

To find the best electrician in the Irving, Texas, area, you should speak with friends and family who can provide feedback based on their experiences, read customer reviews, and check with the BBB to see if they have complaints against the company. The best thing to do is to have an electrician estimate the amount of work needed at your home.

What makes an Irving, Texas, electrician a good choice?

We assure you will receive the highest level of service and workmanship from us. Providing guaranteed electrical work is what we do.

What are the signs that I should call an electrician?

If you notice that your appliances don’t work correctly or that the electricity in your home fluctuates, you should contact an electrician. Having an electrician check your system once a year is essential for ensuring everything is working correctly.

Are electrical repairs something I am capable of doing myself?

It is never recommended that homeowners do their electrical repairs. However, to ensure your family’s safety and compliance with the code, an experienced and licensed technician should perform all electrical services.

Remember our Motto, “Don’t Stress, Call Blessed” Call Blessed Electric and Air so an experienced electrician can help you today!

HVAC Cleaning, Spring time cleaning!

Here are some critical HVAC maintenance tasks you shouldn’t forget

The spring season is a time for new beginnings, which includes HVAC Cleaning and your home from top to bottom. How come? When you neglect your unit’s maintenance, it could lose efficiency and have a shorter lifespan. For your HVAC system to run all season smoothly long, you should perform these six tasks as part of your seasonal routine.

Ensure your air filters are clean and replace them as necessary

Regularly checking and replacing your air filter are essential things you can do to maintain your Irving HVAC system. A dirty or clogged air filter reduces airflow. It makes your system work harder to circulate air, decreasing efficiency and increasing energy costs.

We recommend that you change your air filter every three months. Still, you may need to do so more frequently or less frequently, depending on the type of filter that you have and the environment in which you live.

HVAC Cleaning is essential for your unit to work efficiently for your home.

Make sure your vents and registers are clean.

A spring cleaning checklist should also include cleaning the vents and registers in your home. As dust and debris accumulate, they block airflow, making your system work harder.

Keeping your vents and registers clean is as simple as removing them from the wall or floor and vacuuming away dirt and debris. You may have to wash them with soap and water depending on how dirty they are.

Make sure your ductwork is in good shape.

Aside from cleaning your vents and registers, ensure your ductwork is free of leaks or other damage. A leaky ductwork system can reduce your system’s efficiency and introduce harmful pollutants into your home.

A professional Dallas HVAC contractor can inspect and repair your ductwork if you suspect a problem.
Make sure your outdoor unit is clean.

In addition to the indoor components of your Irving HVAC system, you should also take care of the outdoor unit.

Clean the area around the unit by removing any leaves, twigs, and accumulated dirt. Then, use a garden hose to spray down the unit and remove any grime that has built up. Before cleaning the unit, make sure it is disconnected from power!

Make sure your thermostat is working.

It would help to have a properly functioning thermostat to ensure your HVAC system works properly. Your thermostat can cause significant problems when it is outdated or not functioning correctly, such as decreased efficiency and uneven temperatures.

Get a professional Dallas HVAC contractor to check and replace your thermostat if it isn’t functioning correctly. You can even control the temperature in your home with a smartphone app on some newer models.

Get your HVAC system inspected by a professional

Last but not least, you should schedule a professional inspection of your HVAC system once a year call Blessed Electric to have a professional have a look. When you have a professional review done, they will identify potential problems before they become major repair issues, saving you time and money. During this time, duct cleaning is also a great way to remove debris, dust, and pollutants.

Surge Protectors for Whole House, Drawbacks & Benefits

When choosing between whole-house surge protectors and traditional ones, many focus on the big, scary lightning strikes. It’s true that these things can happen and can be protected.

Throughout the year, your home will likely experience dozens of smaller surges in voltage. When these mini-surges occur repeatedly, they can damage or destroy expensive electronic and appliance components. One day, for example, your two-year-old refrigerator may stop working. It’s called “death by a thousand cuts.” Fortunately, there are two ways to stop the bleeding.

Surge protector for power strips: This device protects all electronics connected—a surge protector in a home office or a room with critical electronic equipment. When you buy a handful, the economics change – but individually, they’re cheaper than the alternative.

An electrician installs a whole house surge protector in the home’s electric panel to protect all electronics downstream. It is more expensive and requires professional labor, but it may provide more cost-effective and resilient protection over time.

Surge protectors for the whole house: pros and cons
Do whole-house surge protectors have any advantages or disadvantages over traditional surge protectors? Is it worth it to invest in a whole-house surge protector? It would help to consider your surge protection goals when answering this question. The answer is yes for homes with many hard-wired appliances that power strip surge protectors cannot protect.

The following are three pros and cons to consider:

  1. A whole home surge protector offers a high level of surge protection.
  2. There is a cost difference between whole home surge protectors and traditional surge protectors.
  3. An entire home surge protector provides peace of mind.

My goal in this blog post is to help you determine whether you need whole-house surge protection.

What is the purpose of a whole-house surge protector?

Let’s define a whole house surge protector before weighing the pros and cons. From a visual perspective, it doesn’t look exciting – it’s a gray box next to your home’s electrical panel. However, what it does is pretty cool. This device activates when it detects an irregular voltage – anything from a lightning strike to a minor flutter. Keeping your home’s electronics safe from spikes, it diverts excess voltage into the ground before it reaches them. Unlike power strip surge protectors, a licensed electrician is required to install whole-house surge protector.

Next, let’s discuss whole house surge protector pros and cons.

Pro: Surge protection for the whole house offers high protection against surges.

According to NEMA, up to 80% of surges originate inside buildings. A hair dryer or air conditioner may also cause these, although they are usually small and caused by loose wires, malfunctioning appliances, static electricity, or load shifting. Electronics can be damaged and shortened by seemingly small surges over time.

Despite being relatively rare, power surges and lightning strikes can cause immediate, significant damage to your home and electronics. It is also possible for a high-surge event to spark a fire, which can put everyone inside a house at risk.

In most power strips, surge protectors only provide low-level surge protection, so they won’t work during a high-surge situation. Meanwhile, whole-house surge protectors are effective at reducing both kinds of surges.

In some area’s with frequent severe storms or grid outages, you should install a whole-house surge protector to provide the highest level of protection for everything under your roof. Nevertheless, they will cost more, bringing us to our second point.

Con: Surge protectors for the whole house are more expensive.

Home surge protectors protect all connected electronics, while device-level surge protectors provide only device-level protection.

A surge protector will likely suffice if you are only concerned about protecting specific electronic devices, such as your home computer or television. It will provide the protection that you need for that particular device. Due to their plug-and-play nature, strip surge protectors don’t require installation. A surge protector typically costs between $15 – $50; remember, a quality power strip is well worth the investment.

Buying more than one of these strips in today’s connected world is probably necessary. You should have one in your home office. An entertainment center should have one. It’s the same with your bedroom TV. So you’re considering spending well over $100 – and then you wonder if it’s worth investing more in a whole house surge protector. You must pay between $200 and $700 to purchase and install a whole-house surge protector.

In addition, power strips won’t protect electronics directly wired to your electrical panel. There are several items that can cost well over five figures, including HVAC systems, electric stoves, ovens, range hoods, washers, and dryers. This is why they are often your house’s most expensive electronic components. The best way to protect these is by installing whole-house surge protection. In addition, a growing number of household appliances are now “smart” and connected, which makes them more expensive than they used to be. As a result, one high-surge event could destroy electronics worth tens of thousands of dollars.

Pro: There is a greater sense of security with whole-house surge protectors.

When weighing the pros and cons of whole-home surge protection versus traditional surge protectors, it shouldn’t just be about dollars and cents but also about emotions. Some of us worry, and others don’t. Some of us are willing to take on more risk.

The Bottom line: Is it worth buying surge protectors for the whole house?

Does it make sense to invest in surge protectors for the entire house? Generally, yes. If you consider the possibility of equipment damage costing more than $10,000, the average cost for whole-house surge protection and installation is between $200 and $700.

The need for whole-house surge protectors is growing as our homes become increasingly equipped with intelligent but sensitive electronics that power strips cannot protect. It is up to you to opt for strip surge protector and forego extra peace of mind.

To learn more about how surge protectors work and if they suit your home, contact Blessed Electric And Air Today!

Why You Shouldn’t Do Your Own Electric Work

Many homeowners get excited to make the trip to the home improvement store, research some DIY tutorials on YouTubeTM, and roll up their sleeves to make their dream home come true due to the popularity of Do It Yourself (DIY) home improvement shows. Home improvement projects that include electrical work are rarely a positive experience for DIYers since DIY electrical work is never a good idea. The following are some reasons why:

  • Electrical DIY Can Be Dangerous
  • Performing electrical work wrong can result in electrocution of yourself or others within your home, which can be fatal. Suppose faulty wiring is combined with combustible materials like wood and drywall. In that case, severe fires can endanger you, your family, and your neighbors.
  • The long-term costs may exceed the short-term benefits
  • We commonly receive calls and emails from customers who have started a DIY electrical project to save money, only to run into problems. Licensed electricians will need to remove the incorrect wiring before troubleshooting begins. As a result, the project can take longer (and cost more) than it usually would.
  • DIY electrical does not comply with the electrical code
  • Electrical work is subject to stringent regulations. Our electricians are highly trained and knowledgeable about NFPA 70® and National Electrical Code® (NEC®). We consistently receive praise from inspectors about the quality of our work. In the future, if your DIY electrical work does not meet current electrical codes, you may have problems reselling your home and will not be able to get homeowner’s insurance.

It’s Dangerous to Do It Yourself

Electric systems are costly and dangerous to attempt to DIY. It is different for every DIY project. One of the most significant risks of DIY electrical projects is overheating circuits and catching fire. There is a possibility that circuit overheating, sparks, and fires can result from faulty connections, wire gauges, and other amateur mistakes.

Here’s the good news –Blessed Electric can help! No matter your electrical project size, we can provide you with a quote.

Are Your Breakers Protecting You!?

By: Blessed Electric and Air

Are you familiar with your breaker’s location? Most of us don’t think about it until our lights go out, and we must scramble to find it. Breakers, or electrical panels, distribute electricity throughout the home. Electrical wiring is connected to your home’s internal wiring through these connectors. Circuit breakers and fuses are designed to trip before circuit wires become dangerously hot. Your appliances and power sources may not work as a result.

The tripped circuit keeps your house safe by protecting the electrical wiring in your house when you use the toaster and microwave at the same time.

Electrical loads you send through your walls, not the number of appliances you have, make the power go out. If your circuit breaker trips or keeps tripping, there may be a problem with your home’s wiring.

That’s why it’s crucial to keep your systems up-to-date and secure or to upgrade them if necessary. Circuit breakers can be found in the following types:

  • Standard Breaker– The electrical flow is monitored from when the electricity enters the home to when it leaves through appliances and outlets.
  • GFCI Breaker– When an overload trips GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) breakers, the power to the circuit is cut off.
  • AFCI Breaker– Electric discharges in cords or wiring can cause fires if they are not protected by AFCI breakers (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters). These breakers immediately disconnect the damaged circuit when the arc builds up enough heat.

Contact us if your breakers need special attention. Blessed Electric and Air.

The Various Types of Ceiling Fans Your Electrical Service Installs

It is necessary to have ceiling fans at home even if there’s a powerful HVAC unit in your home. This is because the ceiling fans help to cut down your power consumption. When the weather is not too hot, you can shut down your air conditioning unit while your fans kick in. It is needless to remind you that fans don’t consume half as much as your HVAC unit consumes. Check types of ceiling fans for your Electrical Service Installs.

While you may want to install your ceiling fans yourself, it is better to hire a Dallas electrician, an Irving electrician, or a Round Rock electrician, depending on where you live. They understand the safety precautions around fans. For instance, they know that the blades of the fan must be at least 7 feet off the ground. At the same time, if the fans are too far away from the ground, the people underneath may not feel the impact. This is why you should let a professional handle the installation.

Now that you understand the importance of ceiling fans in homes, let’s talk about the types of ceiling fans that electricians install.

 

1. Dual-Motor Ceiling Fans

This is different from other fans. It comes as a pair of small ceiling fans being controlled by a single motor. It’s like getting two fans at the price of one. It might also interest you that each of the fans has its separate control. So, they can run at different speed. If you don’t want high speed, you can set the speed of the fan that blows your part of the room to low speed without disturbing others.

In addition, since each of them will cover different areas in the room, their coverage is widened. Some of them come with lights while others don’t.

2. Standard Ceiling Fans

This is the commonest type of ceiling fans found in homes. The ceiling fans are often installed with downrods. The downrod is the metal pipe that links the mounting brackets to the motor housing that spins the blades. These fans usually have about 4 to 5 blades. And some of them come with a light kit. Here is a little guide that will help you determine the length of the downrods of your ceiling fans. It depends solely on how high your ceiling is.

  • Choose a 6-inch downrod for a 9-feet-high ceiling.
  • Choose a 12-inch downrod for a 10-feet-high ceiling.
  • Choose a 24-inch downrod for a 12-feet-high ceiling.
  • Choose a 36-inch downrod for a 14-feet-high ceiling.
  • Choose a 48-inch downrod for a 16-feet-high ceiling.
  • Choose a 60-inch downrod for an 18-feet-high ceiling.
  • Choose a 72-inch downrod for a 20-feet-high ceiling.

3. Energy Star Ceiling Fans

These fans are known for conserving energy. They consume the least energy among ceiling fans. They’ll help you reduce your power consumption. In fact, Energy Star fans consume about 20-30% less power than other ceiling fans. The implication is that these fans can help you cut down up to 30% of power consumption. And the best part is that they come in standard and low-profile variants. Some of the fans also have LED lights.

4. Low-Profile Ceiling Fans

This type of ceiling fans is known as the hugger fans because they are installed as flush-mount fans. They do not require any downrod. This type of fan is ideal for apartments whose ceilings are lying low. You can choose it for an apartment whose ceiling is 8 feet high or less. Just like the standard ceiling fans, you can get hugger fans in various styles, colors, and finishes. So, you should be able to pick the one the suits your décor.

5. Smart Ceiling Fans

As their name implies, they are fans that can be linked to your existing Ecobee, Nest, Samsung SmartThings, Amazon Alexa, or Google Assistant technology. You will be able to control the fans remotely. You can even program the fans to go off the moment they no longer sense any movement. That way, no fan will work when there’s no one in its compartment.

The two major advantages of smart ceiling fans are the convenience of remote controlling and a huge slash in power consumption. You can get various sizes, brands, styles, and colors of smart ceiling fans. They can be installed by Dallas HVAC, Irving HVAC, or Round rock HVAC specialists.

6. Outdoor Ceiling Fans

All the fans described above are meant for only indoor use. They are not designed to work amid a heavy wind or humidity. So, you can’t install them in your patio or somewhere in your yard. However, there are fans designed specifically for that purpose. They are the outdoor ceiling fans, and they can withstand the wind, humidity, and inclement weather conditions. You can hire a Round Rock, Irving, or Dallas electrician to install them in your patio or anywhere around your home.

7. Industrial Ceiling Fans

These are powerful ceiling fans used in industrial buildings with high ceilings. These fans are too noisy to be installed in homes, and they consume more energy than other ceiling fans. In addition, they come with long downrods. The good part is that industrial fans are more efficient, rugged, and durable. They work like beasts. They are the ideal choice for warehouses, large stores, gymnasiums, and other industrial spaces.

Conclusion:

When you alternate your HVAC/air conditioning unit with your ceiling or when you use the fans in tandem with your HVAC, you’ll not only cud down your power consumption tremendously, but you’ll also extend the lifespan of your HVAC as nothing wears the unit out like a heavy usage. And to get the best performance from your fans, hire a Round Rock, Irving, or Dallas electrician to install them for you.