Residential & Commercial Electrical Services in Rifle CO

Signs Your Electrical Wiring Needs Immediate Attention

Posted on October 25, 2024 by rlong_admin

From electrical fires to power outages, faulty wiring in your home can cause serious problems if not taken care of in a timely manner. Knowing the warning signs that your wiring needs immediate attention can help you avoid potential hazards and costly repairs.

Here are some key signs that indicate your electrical wiring may need professional attention from a licensed electrician like those at Always On Electric.

Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips

While occasional trips are normal, frequent trips are a red flag. This could indicate an underlying problem with your wiring, such as circuits that are overloaded, short circuits, or faulty wiring that needs to be assessed immediately by an expert.

Dimming or Flickering Lights

If your lights dim or flicker, especially when you turn on a major appliance, this could mean your electrical wiring is not sufficient to handle the load. This might be due to outdated wiring or poor electrical connections. Ignoring this issue could lead to more significant problems, including electrical fires.

Burning Smell or Scorched Outlets

If you detect a burning smell, immediately turn off your power at the circuit breaker and call a licensed electrician. Scorched or discolored outlets are also indicators of heat damage from faulty wiring and should be addressed immediately to prevent fires.

Warm or Vibrating Wall Outlets

Outlets or switches that are warm to the touch or emit a slight vibration indicate that there could be a wiring issue inside your walls. This can happen if the wiring is loose or damaged, leading to increased resistance and overheating. Contacting a professional electrician promptly can prevent further damage and potential fires.

Buzzing or Crackling Sounds

If you hear buzzing, crackling, or sizzling sounds coming from outlets, switches, or electrical panels, this is a serious warning sign that your wiring may be faulty or damaged. Electrical components should operate silently, so any unusual noise requires immediate attention to prevent further risks.

Frequent Electrical Shocks

Feeling a mild shock or tingling sensation when plugging in or unplugging appliances is not normal and indicates that your wiring could be compromised. This could be due to a faulty ground or deteriorating wires and should be inspected to ensure the safety of everyone in the building.

Outlets That Don’t Work or Are Sparking

Outlets that spark when you plug or unplug devices are even more concerning, as they can indicate a short circuit or damage to the wiring behind the outlet. An inspection by a professional is essential to identify and fix the underlying cause.

Outdated or Worn-Out Wiring

Older homes, especially those built more than 40 years ago, may still have outdated wiring that is no longer up to code or safe for modern electricity needs. If your home has knob-and-tube wiring or aluminum wiring, it’s important to have it evaluated and potentially replaced to prevent safety hazards.

Persistent Electrical Problems

If you experience multiple electrical issues such as frequent outages, lights that dim for no apparent reason, or appliances that overheat, it could be a sign that your entire electrical system needs an upgrade or repair. A licensed electrician can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action to ensure safety and reliability.

What to Do If You Notice These Signs

If any of these signs are present in your home or business, it’s crucial to contact a licensed and insured electrician like Always On Electric right away. Ignoring these signs can lead to severe consequences, including fires and damage to your electrical system. Always On Electric has been trusted in western Colorado for years, offering expert electrical services to ensure your system is safe and up to code. We’re committed to customer service and safety, using our extensive knowledge and certifications to provide top-quality repairs, upgrades, and troubleshooting.

How to Prepare Your Home’s Electrical System for Colorado Winters

Posted on September 27, 2024 by rlong_admin

Winter in the mountains can be harsh, with freezing temperatures, snow, and ice putting extra stress on your home’s electrical system. At Always On Electric, we want to help you keep your home safe and powered all season long. Here are some essential tips to prepare your electrical system for Colorado winters.

Install or Service a Backup Generator

A backup generator can be a lifesaver, providing power to critical appliances like heating systems, refrigerators, and medical equipment. If you already have a generator, make sure it’s serviced and in good working order before winter hits. If you don’t have one, now is the perfect time to consider installing one.

Check Your Heating System

Before the winter, it’s crucial to ensure that your system is in good condition. This includes checking the wiring, outlets, and connections that power your furnace, electric heaters, or HVAC system. Faulty electrical connections can not only reduce the efficiency of your heating system but also pose a fire hazard.

Upgrade or Repair Your Electrical Panel

If your electrical panel is outdated, it may struggle to handle the increased demand that winter brings, especially if you’re using space heaters or adding new appliances like a generator. Upgrading your panel can prevent overloaded circuits, reduce the risk of electrical fires, and ensure your home is powered efficiently throughout the season.

Protect Your Home with Surge Protection

Installing whole-home surge protection can shield your electrical devices from voltage spikes caused by downed power lines or other grid issues during a storm. Surge protectors offer an extra layer of protection that ensures your investment in electronics and home systems is safe.

Inspect Electrical Wiring for Damage

Damaged wiring can increase the risk of electrical fires, particularly in older homes. Before winter, inspect your wiring for signs of wear and tear, and repair or replace any damaged areas to ensure your home stays safe and powered through the colder months.

Contact Always On Electric today at (970) 309-2616 to learn more about our electrical services.

Here is When it is a Good Time to Upgrade Your Electrical Wiring

Posted on August 29, 2024 by Randy Long

Most people don’t think much about the electrical wiring in their home, unless or until something goes wrong. For instance, the big football game is coming up on TV and people are gathered at your house to see it. A couple minutes before the game starts the TV inexplicably turns off. Nothing seems to work to get it back on. Maybe it was a blown fuse? Maybe it was something else? Whatever it was, it’s frustratingly irritating!

Signs You Need to Upgrade Your Electrical Wiring

When is it time to upgrade your electrical wiring? For most people, if their house is over 40 years old, then it’s time. Things have changed a lot since the original electrical work was installed. Think about how much different our world is today– back then, they didn’t have the kind of devices and appliances we have now, like microwaves, desktop computers, and tablets. Furthermore, if you have several people living in a house trying to plug all their stuff in at once, you might have run out of outlets– so it’s time to expand the number of outlets in your home to properly accommodate the power needs of all the people who live there.

One thing that might scare you– and it should– is that faulty wiring is a leading cause of house fires. The older your house is, the more likely the wiring is outdated and/or unsafe… which could very well lead to a fire. You don’t want that. You want wiring that’s “up to code,” or, more importantly, up to the current code.

Hire a Professional Electrician

When’s the last time your wiring was professionally inspected? Most of you would say, “I have no idea.” Others might say, “When we first bought the house.” If it has been “some time” since it was checked, make it a priority this year to have a company like Always On Electric come take a look at what’s going on in your house with your electrical wires.

You’ll especially want to have your wiring checked if you’ve noticed fuses are blowing repeatedly, lights are flickering or dimming, you smell burning coming from a certain room or appliance, or– don’t laugh– you get a tingling sensation when you touch a certain appliance.

Your wiring should also be inspected if you’ve noticed particularly warm outlets or ones that have become discolored or spark when you plug things into them.

Contact Always On Electric at (970) 309-2616 today or visit us online for more information!

Here’s What You Need to Know When Your Circuit Breaker Trips

Posted on July 26, 2024 by Randy Long

If a circuit breaker in your electrical panel trips, it’s actually not the worst thing in the world. Your circuit breakers are designed to protect the electric circuits in your electrical panel from getting damaged. Nevertheless, there are some steps you should take if a circuit breaker in your home trips.

Check them out below:

Find the Electrical Panel

The first thing you’ll need to do after a circuit breaker trips is locate your home’s electrical panel, if you don’t know where it is. These panels can be located in a variety of places, but more often than not, they’ll be in your garage or basement.

Reset the Tripped Circuit Breaker

Resetting a circuit breaker that has tripped is easy to do. All you need to do is open up your electrical panel, find the electrical circuit that is facing a different direction than all the others, and flip it back on. This should restore power to the area of your home where it went out when the circuit breaker tripped.

Make Sure the Power Stays On

In some cases, a circuit breaker might trip again after you have flipped a circuit back on. This is the sign of a problem. You may have an overloaded circuit somewhere in your home. You may also have a short circuit. A ground fault could also be to blame. Whatever the case, it’s important to find the cause of the tripped circuit breaker.

Contact a Residential Electrician for Help

If you can’t find what’s causing your circuit breaker to trip, you should avoid flipping your electrical circuit back on and contact an electrician for help. Otherwise, you could do some real damage to your electrical circuits and potentially even start a fire in your home.

Always on Electric can help you with tripped circuit breakers and any other electrical issues you face in your home. Call us at 970-309-2616 today to schedule an appointment with an electrician.

Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Do Your Own Electrical Work

Posted on June 27, 2024 by Randy Long

Home maintenance projects can be expensive, and it is often tempting to attempt a repair on your own. After all, many times a DIY repair will not only save money, but may also be satisfying. Electrical work is one area of home repair where you may want to reconsider doing it yourself. These are a few reasons why you should not try to do electrical work on your own.

Fire Risk

The risk of fire from faulty wiring or improperly installed electrical components is very real. Electrical fires are also frequently devastating as they may start inside a wall at night and be fully involved before a homeowner notices. A small mistake, like a loose wire or an overloaded circuit, may lead to a dangerous electrical fire.

Electrical Shock

Electric shock is another serious risk of working with electricity. Professional electricians have years of experience and training, as well as specialized tools that help them stay safe while performing electrical work in your home. It only takes one small mistake or one second of inattention to receive a dangerous electric shock. The risk of electric shock makes DIY electrical repairs a bad idea.

Building Codes

All electrical work must be done in accordance with applicable building codes. Trying to fully understand the electrical codes takes considerable effort and time. Electrical work also may require an inspection. Performing electrical work by yourself may result in work that does not meet building code and is not inspected. This may become an issue when you attempt to sell the home.

Always On Electric has you covered whether you need residential or commercial electrical work performed. We work on all types of buildings throughout the western Colorado region. Our electricians are fully trained and experienced, and we are licensed, insured, and bonded. You can have full confidence in electrical work that we perform on your home or business. Contact us today at 970-309-2616 to learn more about our services or to request a quote.

Electrical Safety in Livestock Areas: Ensuring Animal Welfare and Preventing Accidents

Posted on May 28, 2024 by rlong_admin

Ensuring the safety of electrical installations in livestock areas is crucial for preventing accidents and maintaining the well-being of animals. Electrical hazards in these environments can lead to severe consequences, including injury to animals, fire risks, and costly disruptions to farm operations.

By implementing specific safety measures, farmers can protect their livestock and ensure a safe, efficient, and productive agricultural setting. Here are some essential guidelines for electrical safety in livestock areas.

Proper Grounding and Bonding

One of the most critical aspects of electrical safety is ensuring that all electrical systems are properly grounded and bonded. Proper grounding prevents electrical shock hazards by providing a safe path for electricity to flow in case of a fault. This is particularly important in livestock areas where animals are often in contact with the ground, which can become a conductor for stray voltage. Ensure all metal structures, including fences, barns, and equipment, are properly bonded to the electrical ground system to minimize these risks.

Use of GFCI Outlets

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are essential in areas with high moisture levels, such as livestock housing and feeding areas. GFCIs quickly cut off power when they detect an imbalance in the electrical current, which can occur when electricity escapes to the ground or through an animal or human. Installing GFCI outlets in all wet and damp locations significantly reduces the risk of electrical shocks.

Protective Conduit and Enclosures

Electrical wiring in livestock areas should be enclosed in durable, protective conduits to shield it from physical damage caused by animals or machinery. PVC or metal conduits provide robust protection against chewing, trampling, and moisture. Additionally, all electrical panels, junction boxes, and outlets should have appropriate weatherproof and tamper-resistant covers to prevent accidental contact and exposure to the elements.

Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Routine maintenance and inspections of electrical systems are vital for identifying potential hazards before they become serious problems. Schedule regular checks of all electrical installations, looking for signs of wear and tear, corrosion, or damage. Pay special attention to areas exposed to harsh conditions, such as barns and outdoor enclosures. Promptly address any issues to maintain a safe environment for both animals and workers.

Emergency Shut-Offs and Accessible Controls

Installing emergency shut-off switches in easily accessible locations ensures that power can be quickly cut in case of an emergency. These controls should be clearly labeled and accessible without needing to enter potentially hazardous areas. Educate all farm workers on the location and operation of these shut offs to ensure quick response during emergencies.

Proper Lighting and Ventilation

Adequate lighting and ventilation are essential for maintaining a safe and healthy environment in livestock areas. Ensure that lighting fixtures are securely installed and protected from damage, with all wiring safely enclosed. Proper ventilation helps reduce moisture levels, which can contribute to electrical hazards and create a healthier environment for animals.

Stray Voltage Testing

Stray voltage, even at low levels, can be harmful to livestock, causing stress and health issues. Regularly test for stray voltage in areas where animals are housed, fed, or watered. Use specialized equipment to detect any unintended electrical currents and address the source promptly. Implementing proper grounding and bonding techniques can help mitigate stray voltage issues.

Education and Training

Educate all farm personnel about electrical safety practices and the specific risks associated with livestock areas. Provide training on identifying potential electrical hazards, the proper use of equipment, and emergency procedures. A well-informed team is better equipped to prevent accidents and maintain a safe environment.

For professional assistance with your farm’s electrical needs, Always On Electric, Inc. is here to help. Our experienced electricians are trained in agricultural electrical systems and are committed to providing safe, reliable service throughout western Colorado. Contact us today at (970) 309-2616 to learn more about our services and how we can help you maintain a safe environment for your livestock.

Stay Comfortable with New Ceiling Fans

Posted on May 6, 2024 by Randy Long

In the realm of home comfort and energy efficiency, ceiling fans often fly under the radar despite their significant impact. While air conditioning systems are the go-to solution for many, ceiling fans offer a host of benefits that complement and enhance your home environment in various ways. From improving air circulation to reducing energy costs, the advantages of installing ceiling fans are plentiful. Let’s delve into why incorporating these unassuming fixtures into your home is a wise choice.

Enhanced Air Circulation

One of the primary functions of ceiling fans is to promote better airflow in your living spaces. By gently circulating air throughout the room, they help in maintaining a consistent temperature and preventing pockets of stagnant air. This not only enhances comfort but also reduces the likelihood of mold and mildew buildup in humid environments.

Energy Efficiency

Compared to air conditioning units, ceiling fans consume significantly less energy. They are an economical alternative for cooling your home, especially when used in conjunction with your HVAC system. By relying more on ceiling fans during moderate weather conditions, you can slash your energy bills while still enjoying a comfortable indoor environment.

Year-Round Comfort

Contrary to popular belief, ceiling fans aren’t just for cooling purposes. Most modern ceiling fans come with a reversible motor that allows them to operate in both summer and winter modes. In summer, the counterclockwise rotation creates a cool breeze, while in winter, switching to clockwise rotation helps distribute warm air trapped near the ceiling, thereby improving heating efficiency.

Improved Lighting

Many ceiling fans come equipped with integrated light fixtures, serving a dual purpose by providing both illumination and air circulation. This eliminates the need for separate overhead lights and ceiling fans, streamlining your home’s lighting scheme while maximizing functionality.

Increased Home Value

Installing ceiling fans is not only a practical decision but also a smart investment in your home’s value. Potential buyers often appreciate the presence of ceiling fans as they contribute to energy efficiency and comfort. Additionally, stylish and well-maintained ceiling fans can enhance the overall appeal of your home’s interior.

The benefits of installing ceiling fans in your home are multifaceted, ranging from improved air circulation and energy efficiency to enhanced comfort and style. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, lower your energy bills, or simply elevate the ambiance of your living spaces, ceiling fans offer a cost-effective and versatile solution. So, why wait? Take advantage of the myriad benefits that ceiling fans have to offer and transform your home into a haven of comfort and efficiency.

Learn more about how Always on Electric can help today by giving us a call at 970-309-2616.

Electrical Upgrades for Home Renovations: Adding Value and Safety

Posted on April 8, 2024 by Randy Long

Home renovations are an exciting venture, offering the opportunity to enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your living space. While the focus often revolves around new paint colors, flooring, and furnishings, it’s crucial not to overlook the significance of electrical upgrades during the renovation process. Investing in electrical enhancements not only adds value to your property but also plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of your home.

Enhancing Safety Standards

One of the primary reasons to prioritize electrical upgrades during home renovations is to meet or exceed current safety standards. Older homes might have outdated electrical systems that pose potential hazards, such as faulty wiring or insufficient circuit capacity. By upgrading electrical components, homeowners can minimize the risk of electrical fires and ensure the safety of their families.

Common Safety-Focused Electrical Upgrades

Upgrading Electrical Panels: Older homes often have outdated electrical panels that may not support the increased demand for power in modern households. Upgrading to a higher-capacity panel ensures a safer and more reliable electrical system.
Updating Wiring Systems: Rewiring key areas of the house, especially in older homes, can prevent electrical issues and improve the overall safety of the property.
Installing GFCI Outlets: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are crucial in areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms. They provide an extra layer of protection against electric shock and are a recommended upgrade during renovations.

Meeting Modern Electrical Demands

Homeowners today have significantly different electrical needs than those of previous generations. The increased reliance on electronic devices, smart home technologies, and energy-efficient appliances requires a more robust and adaptable electrical system. Upgrading your home’s electrical infrastructure ensures that it can handle the demands of contemporary living.

Key upgrades to meet modern electrical demands:

Adding Additional Outlets: In the age of technology, having an abundance of electrical outlets is essential. Consider adding more outlets in strategic locations to accommodate the various devices used daily.
Smart Home Integration: Renovations offer an ideal time to incorporate smart home technologies. Upgrading your electrical system to support these features adds convenience, security, and energy efficiency to your home.
Energy-Efficient Lighting Solutions: Switching to LED lighting not only reduces energy consumption but also enhances the overall ambiance of your renovated spaces. It’s a cost-effective and eco-friendly upgrade that adds value to your home.

Increasing Property Value

Buyers in today’s real estate market are often looking for turnkey homes with modern amenities. Electrical upgrades contribute significantly to a home’s overall appeal and can make a considerable difference in its market value. Prospective buyers are more likely to be attracted to a property that has a well-maintained and updated electrical system, as it eliminates potential concerns and future expenses.

Investing in electrical upgrades during renovations can include:

Upgrading Switches and Dimmers: Modern, aesthetically pleasing switches and dimmers can enhance the overall look and feel of a room, adding a touch of sophistication.
Installing Energy-Efficient Appliances: While not directly related to the electrical system, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and can positively impact your home’s value.

Electrical upgrades are a crucial component of any home renovation project, offering both immediate benefits in terms of safety and functionality and long-term advantages in terms of property value. Whether you’re planning a complete overhaul or a minor facelift, consulting with a professional electrician, such as Always On Electric, can help you make informed decisions about the most effective upgrades for your home. By prioritizing electrical enhancements, you’re not only adding value to your property but also ensuring a safe and efficient living environment for years to come.

Contact Always On Electric at (970) 309-2616 today or visit us online for more information!

Navigating Emergency Electrical Repairs

Posted on March 7, 2024 by rlong_admin

Electrical emergencies can strike at any time, leaving homeowners in a state of panic. Whether it’s a sudden power outage, a sparking outlet, or a tripped circuit breaker, knowing how to handle these situations safely can make all the difference.

Assess the Situation

The first rule in any emergency is to remain calm. Take a moment to assess the situation and identify the source of the problem. Is it a localized issue, such as a malfunctioning appliance, or a broader electrical outage affecting the entire house?

Ensure Personal Safety

Before attempting any electrical troubleshooting, prioritize your safety. Turn off any appliances or electronic devices connected to the affected circuit, and if necessary, cut power to the entire house by flipping the main circuit breaker. Never attempt to handle electrical issues without ensuring your safety first.

Identify and Address Immediate Hazards

If you notice sparking outlets, exposed wires, or the smell of burning, these are immediate hazards that require prompt attention. Use a fire extinguisher for electrical fires and do not use water. If there’s a damaged or frayed wire, cover it with electrical tape temporarily to prevent accidental contact.

Reset Tripped Circuit Breakers

If only a specific part of your home has lost power, check the circuit breaker panel for tripped breakers. Identify the affected circuit and reset the breaker by firmly moving it to the “off” position and then back to the “on” position. If the breaker continues to trip, it may indicate a more significant issue that requires professional attention.

Inspect Outlets and Switches

Examine outlets and switches for signs of damage, such as scorch marks or unusual heat. If you discover any issues, refrain from using the outlet or switch and consider turning off power to that circuit until a professional can assess and repair it.

Utilize Extension Cords Temporarily

If a specific area of your home has lost power, and you need electricity urgently, you can use extension cords from other areas (preferably not affected by the outage) to temporarily power essential appliances. However, use this as a short-term solution until the underlying issue is addressed.

Document the Problem

Before contacting a professional electrician, document the details of the issue. Note when it started, any unusual sounds or smells, and any actions you took to mitigate the problem. This information can be valuable for the electrician during their assessment.

While these steps can help homeowners manage electrical emergencies temporarily, it’s crucial to remember that they are not substitutes for professional expertise. Emergency situations demand swift action, but the long-term solution often requires the skills and knowledge of a licensed electrician. As soon as you’ve taken these initial steps, contact a professional to thoroughly assess and address the underlying electrical issue, ensuring the continued safety and reliability of your home’s electrical system.

Contact Always On Electric, Inc. at (970) 309-2616 today or visit us online for more information!

Upgrading Electrical Panels: When and Why

Posted on February 6, 2024 by rlong_admin

In the fast-paced world we live in today, electricity is the lifeblood of our homes and businesses. From powering our appliances to keeping our offices running smoothly, a reliable electrical system is non-negotiable. However, like any other technology, electrical systems have a finite lifespan. That’s when upgrading your electrical panel becomes not just a luxury but a necessity.

The Heart of Your Electrical System

First, let’s understand the importance of the electrical panel. It’s essentially the heart of your electrical system, responsible for distributing power throughout your home or business. All the electricity that enters your building runs through this critical component, where it’s divided into circuits and sent to various outlets and appliances.

Signs It’s Time for an Upgrade

Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips: If your circuit breakers trip frequently, it’s a clear indication that your electrical panel is struggling to handle the load. This can be due to increased power demands from modern appliances or an aging panel that can’t keep up. Always On Electric, Inc. can assess the situation and recommend a suitable upgrade.
Fuse Panel: If your home or business still has a fuse panel, it’s a strong sign that you’re overdue for an upgrade. Fuse panels are outdated and less safe than modern circuit breaker panels, which provide better protection against electrical fires and overloads.
Dimming Lights: Do your lights flicker or dim when you turn on appliances? This could be a sign of insufficient power supply, and an electrical panel upgrade might be necessary to ensure a stable and consistent flow of electricity.
Outdated Wiring: If your building has outdated wiring, it’s crucial to upgrade both the wiring and the electrical panel. Old wiring can be a safety hazard and might not meet modern electrical standards.
Home Renovations or Additions: Planning to renovate your home or expand your business? These are excellent opportunities to upgrade your electrical panel to accommodate the increased power needs of the new space.

Why Choose Always On Electric, Inc.?

Upgrading your electrical panel is not a DIY project. It requires specialized knowledge and expertise to ensure the safety and functionality of your electrical system. Always On Electric, Inc. is your trusted partner in this endeavor for several reasons:

Experience: With years of experience in the industry, we’ve seen and handled it all. Our technicians are skilled in upgrading electrical panels efficiently and safely.
Safety First: Safety is our top priority. We adhere to all safety standards and regulations to ensure your electrical system is not just upgraded but also made safer.
Custom Solutions: We understand that every home and business is unique. We provide customized solutions tailored to your specific electrical needs.
Energy Efficiency: Our upgrades are not just about increasing capacity; we also focus on energy efficiency to help you save on your electricity bills.
Reliability: When we’re done, you can count on a reliable electrical system that will serve you well for years to come.

Contact Always On Electric, Inc. at (970) 309-2616 today or visit us online for more information on how we can help with your electrical services in your home or business.