Category Archives: Backup Generators

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

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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.

a snowy day in front of a house that has been decorated for the season.

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If your electrical panel is outdated, it may struggle to handle the increased demand that winter brings, especially if you’re using space heaters or adding new appliances like a generator.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.

Winter Electrical Safety: Preparing Your Colorado Home for the Cold

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The winter season descends upon Colorado and it’s essential to ensure that your home is not only cozy and warm but also safe from electrical hazards. The colder months can put added stress on your electrical system, making it crucial to take precautionary measures and perform maintenance tasks.

Residential Electrician

Inspect Outdoor Wiring and Fixtures

Before the cold sets in, check all outdoor wiring, lighting fixtures, and outlets. Make sure they are in good condition, securely attached, and free from damage. Any frayed wires or exposed connections should be addressed promptly to prevent accidents during winter weather.

Check Exterior Outlets

Outdoor electrical outlets should be in good working order. Ensure they have weatherproofed covers and are properly sealed to prevent moisture from entering. Consider installing GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets for additional safety.

Service Your Heating System

If you rely on electric heating systems, such as baseboard heaters or electric furnaces, have them professionally serviced before the winter season. Clean filters and vents to improve efficiency and reduce fire risks.

Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are critical during the winter months when heating systems are in use. Test CO detectors and replace batteries to ensure they are fully operational. Consider installing additional detectors if necessary.

Inspect Electrical Cords and Extension Cords

Examine all electrical cords for signs of wear, fraying, or damage. This includes cords for space heaters, holiday decorations, and any outdoor equipment. Replace damaged cords immediately to prevent electrical fires.

Electrical Panel Check

Have a licensed electrician inspect your electrical panel before winter to ensure it can handle the increased electrical load. Upgrading to a higher amperage panel may be necessary if you plan to use additional heating appliances.

Plan for Power Outages

Prepare for potential power outages by having a backup power source, such as a generator or uninterruptible power supply (UPS). This will ensure essential appliances and heating systems remain operational during blackouts.

Winter in Colorado can be beautiful, but it also presents unique challenges for your home’s electrical system. By following these safety precautions and performing necessary electrical maintenance tasks, you can enjoy a warm and safe winter season. Remember that safety should always be a priority, and when in doubt, consult a licensed electrician to address any electrical concerns or make necessary upgrades. A well-prepared home will keep you and your loved ones safe and comfortable during the coldest months of the year.

Contact Always On Electric, Inc. at (970) 309-2616 today or visit us online for more information on how to maintain your electrical systems at home during this winter season.

 

Common Electrical Problems in Colorado Homes and How to Solve Them

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Electrical issues are not uncommon in homes, and Colorado is no exception. From older houses in historic neighborhoods to modern constructions, various electrical problems can arise due to a variety of factors. Identifying and addressing these issues promptly is crucial to ensure the safety, efficiency, and functionality of your home’s electrical system.

Exterior Home Lighting from professional electricians

Flickering Lights

Flickering lights can be caused by loose or faulty light bulbs, poor connections, or inadequate wiring. Begin by checking and tightening the bulbs. If the issue persists, consult a licensed electrician to examine your wiring and connections. They can identify and resolve the root cause of the flickering.

Tripped Circuit Breakers

Frequent tripping of circuit breakers indicates an overloaded circuit. This commonly occurs when too many electrical devices are connected to a single circuit. To solve this, redistribute the load by unplugging some devices or having an electrician install additional circuits where needed.

Electrical Outlets Not Working

If an outlet isn’t supplying power, it might be a result of a tripped GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet or a faulty outlet itself. Press the “reset” button on the GFCI outlet, and if that doesn’t work, consult an electrician to inspect and repair the outlet.

Power Surges

Power surges, often caused by lightning strikes or electrical grid fluctuations, can damage sensitive electronics. Installing surge protectors at key points in your home’s electrical system can prevent these surges from causing harm.

High Energy Bills

Excessively high energy bills may be a sign of inefficient appliances or poor insulation. Consider upgrading to energy-efficient appliances and sealing any gaps or cracks in your home’s insulation to reduce energy consumption.

Overloaded Circuits

Plugging too many devices into a single outlet or circuit can overload it and pose a fire hazard. Spread out the use of electrical outlets and avoid daisy-chaining power strips to prevent overloading.

Faulty Wiring

Older homes, especially those in historic Colorado neighborhoods, might have outdated or deteriorating wiring. If you experience frequent electrical problems, such as tripped breakers or dimming lights, consult a licensed electrician to inspect and update your wiring if necessary.

Warm Switches or Outlets

If you notice switches or outlets becoming warm to the touch, it could indicate an underlying electrical problem. Warmth might be a sign of loose connections or faulty wiring. Contact a professional electrician to investigate and rectify the issue.

Dead Outlets

Outlets that don’t provide power may be the result of a tripped GFCI outlet or a wiring problem. Test and reset GFCI outlets first. If the problem persists, consult an electrician to diagnose and fix the wiring issue.

Light Bulbs Burning Out Quickly

If light bulbs frequently burn out faster than expected, it could be due to voltage fluctuations or poor-quality bulbs. Consider switching to LED bulbs and have an electrician check for voltage irregularities.

Staying vigilant and addressing common electrical problems promptly is essential for maintaining a safe and functional home in Colorado. While some issues can be resolved through simple troubleshooting, it’s advisable to consult a licensed electrician for more complex problems to ensure proper diagnosis and resolution. By taking proactive measures and seeking professional help when needed, you can enjoy a reliable and safe electrical system in your Colorado home.

Don’t hesitate to get help from a professional electrical contractor in Colorado. Contact Always On Electric at (970) 309-2616 today or visit us online to talk with us about the electrical services we can offer you.

 

Electrical Maintenance Checklist for Colorado Homeowners

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As a homeowner in Colorado, maintaining your electrical system is crucial for the safety, efficiency, and longevity of your home. Regular electrical maintenance can prevent potential hazards, reduce energy consumption, and extend the lifespan of your electrical components.

Tripped Circuit Breaker

Schedule Annual Electrical Inspections

Start your electrical maintenance routine by scheduling an annual inspection by a licensed electrician. A professional inspection will identify any potential issues, safety hazards, or outdated components that require attention. This proactive approach will ensure that your electrical system meets safety standards and local codes.

Check GFCI Outlets

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are essential in areas exposed to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces. Press the “test” and “reset” buttons on each GFCI outlet to ensure they are functioning correctly. If a GFCI outlet fails to reset or test properly, contact a licensed electrician for immediate repair or replacement.

Test Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Test and replace the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms regularly. These devices are critical for early detection of potential hazards and should be fully operational at all times.

Inspect Electrical Cords and Cables

Check all electrical cords and cables for signs of wear, damage, or fraying. Replace any damaged cords immediately to avoid electrical fires or shocks. Avoid using extension cords as a permanent solution; instead, have additional outlets installed if needed.

Examine Light Fixtures and Switches

Inspect light fixtures, switches, and dimmers for loose connections, discoloration, or flickering lights. Tighten loose screws and replace faulty switches or dimmers promptly to prevent electrical issues.

Test Circuit Breakers and Fuses

Test your circuit breakers by tripping them manually and resetting them. If you have a fuse box, make sure you have the correct amperage fuses installed for each circuit. Contact a licensed electrician if you experience frequent circuit breaker tripping or if fuses blow frequently.

Check Outdoor Lighting and Security Systems

Ensure that outdoor lighting, including landscape lighting and security systems, is functioning correctly. Clean light fixtures and replace burnt-out bulbs promptly to maintain adequate lighting around your property.

Inspect Surge Protectors

Examine surge protectors for any signs of damage or worn-out indicators. Surge protectors are vital for safeguarding sensitive electronic devices from power surges and should be replaced if compromised.

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

How to Prepare Your Colorado Home for a Power Outage

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Power outages can occur unexpectedly, leaving your Colorado home without electricity and disrupting daily life. Whether caused by severe weather, equipment failure, or scheduled maintenance, being prepared for a power outage can help you navigate through the situation more comfortably.

Licensed electrician

Assemble an Emergency Kit

Create an emergency kit that includes essential supplies such as flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, a first aid kit, non-perishable food, bottled water, and any necessary medications. Store the kit in a designated location that is easily accessible to all family members.

Invest in a Backup Power Source

Consider installing a backup power source, such as a generator or uninterruptible power supply (UPS). These devices can provide temporary electricity during outages, allowing you to power essential appliances and devices. Ensure your backup power source is properly installed, regularly maintained, and fueled or charged in advance.

Maintain Adequate Lighting

Place flashlights and battery-powered lanterns in easily accessible areas throughout your home. Test them regularly to ensure they work properly and keep extra batteries on hand. Avoid using candles, as they pose a fire hazard.

Safeguard Heating and Cooling

Prepare for extreme temperatures during a power outage. In cold weather, ensure you have alternative heating sources such as a fireplace, wood stove, or portable propane heater. Make sure to follow all safety precautions when using these heating sources. In hot weather, create cross-ventilation by opening windows and using battery-operated fans to maintain airflow.

Preserve Refrigerated and Frozen Food

Minimize the frequency of opening refrigerator and freezer doors to keep the temperature as cold as possible. During a power outage, a refrigerator will typically keep food cold for about four hours, while a full freezer will maintain its temperature for about 48 hours. Consider storing perishable items in coolers with ice packs if the outage is prolonged.

The best thing you can do to safeguard and protect yourself from power outages is to reach out to a professional electrician. Contact Always On Electric at (970) 309-2616 today or visit us online for more information!

The Importance of Electrical Safety in Agriculture: Protecting Workers and Livestock

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In the realm of agriculture, where electricity plays a critical role in powering machinery and facilitating various operations, ensuring electrical safety is of paramount importance. The well-being of both farm workers and livestock depends on a safe and reliable electrical system.

Understanding the Risks

Agricultural settings present unique electrical safety challenges due to the combination of outdoor environments, extensive use of machinery, and exposure to water, dust, and other elements. These factors increase the likelihood of electrical hazards, such as electrocution, electrical fires, and equipment damage.

Electrical Tips for Farmers

Protecting Workers

1 Regular Maintenance and Inspections: Regular inspections and maintenance of electrical systems, equipment, and machinery are essential to identify potential hazards and ensure their proper functioning. This includes checking wiring, connections, grounding systems, and surge protection devices.

2 Training and Education: Proper training and education on electrical safety practices should be provided to all farm workers. They should be familiar with safe work practices, such as wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), understanding warning signs, and knowing how to respond to electrical emergencies.

3 Lockout/Tagout Procedures: Implementing lockout/tagout procedures is crucial when servicing or repairing electrical equipment. This practice ensures that machinery or circuits are de-energized, preventing accidental startup and protecting workers from electrical shock.

4 Outdoor Safety: In outdoor agricultural environments, it is important to exercise caution when working near power lines, irrigation systems, and overhead electrical equipment. Proper clearance distances should be maintained to avoid accidental contact and electrocution.

Safeguarding Livestock

1 Proper Grounding: Electrical grounding systems are crucial for protecting livestock from stray voltage and lightning strikes. Adequate grounding measures should be implemented for barns, livestock enclosures, and watering systems to minimize the risk of electric shock.

2 Animal-Friendly Wiring: Special attention should be given to wiring and electrical installations in areas where livestock are present. Animal-friendly wiring methods, such as conduit systems and protective coverings, should be used to prevent chewing or accidental contact by animals.

3 Electrical Equipment Placement: Electrical equipment, such as transformers, should be installed in safe locations away from direct animal contact. Fencing or enclosures can be used to create barriers between animals and electrical components.

Partnering with Qualified Electrical Contractors

Working with qualified electrical contractors who have expertise in agricultural electrical systems is crucial for ensuring electrical safety on farms. Always On Electric professionals can assist in designing and implementing electrical systems tailored to the unique needs of agricultural operations, adhering to relevant safety codes and regulations.

Maintaining electrical safety in agriculture is vital for protecting both workers and livestock. By understanding the risks, implementing safety measures, and partnering with knowledgeable electrical contractors, farm owners can create a safe working environment that minimizes the chances of electrical accidents and ensures the well-being of everyone involved. Prioritizing electrical safety not only safeguards human and animal lives but also contributes to the overall efficiency and productivity of agricultural operations.

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

 

The Advantages of Having a Standby Generator for Your Business

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Backup Generators for BusinessesLooking for a Standby Generator for Your Business?

Always on Electric provides electrical services for local businesses and homes throughout the western Colorado region. With the Fall and Winter seasons closely approaching, a standby generator have major benefits on your business. Snowstorms, colder temperatures, and other elemental weather can cause power outages. Knowing your business won’t shut down due to having a standby generator will leave you with a sigh of relief.

Benefits of Having a Standby Generator for Your Business

When faced with a natural disaster or power outages in your area, the last thing you want to worry about is not being able to service your customers, which will result in loss of business and money. There are several reasons why a backup power source will help you stay in business through unexpected power loss.

  • Safety– To ensure your safety and the safety of your employees, invest in a quality generator that will keep your lights and security systems operating and protect important electronic data.
  • Security– In the event of a power outage, sensitive data you store electronically can be lost. With the use of a standby generator, you can ensure that your personal business information and customer information is not lost when the power goes out.
  • Building Trust with Customers– When an outage occurs in your area, customers will look for businesses that are able to continue to provide services despite the current outage. If your business is able to operate in these conditions customers will remember this in the future for other needs they may have for your services.

Choosing the Right Generator for Your Business

While searching for a generator, there are different factors that must be considered before choosing the right generator for you. These factors can depend on your personal business practices, the size of your business and ability to provide maintenance on the generator.

The four main types of power generators are:

  • EMD Generators– Electro-Motive Diesel is a low maintenance and low risk generator that has flexible functionality.
  • Diesel Generators– A diesel generator operates with the use of a diesel engine and electrical generator. Diesel generator are best used for emergency power.
  • Portable Generators.- Portable generators typically operate using gasoline as fuel and are portable which makes it ideal for commercial or industrial use.
  • Natural Gas Generators– Natural gas generators operate using natural gas for fuel. Natural gas generators help reduce the amount of pollutants released into the environment because it is the cleanest of all the fossil fuels.

From floods, tornadoes, blizzards and earthquakes , Colorado has experienced it. Allow Always On Electric to ensure that your business can withstand whatever nature brings our way! Contact Always On Electric at (970) 309-2616 today or visit us online for more information!

Plan for Unplanned Outages With a Backup Generator

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While some storms come and go, others can pack a serious punch and leave devastation in their wake including power outages. This year, don’t get left in the dark if heavy rainstorms come during the spring season. Get a backup generator from Always On Electric and be ready for anything that Mother Nature has in store.

Backup GeneratorAt first, having a backup generator might not seem like a necessity. After all, when a major storm hits, power outages aren’t always going to happen. However, once the lights go out and everything goes silent, chances are you’re going to wish you had a backup generator to keep you from waving around the dark to find your way.

By having a backup generator, you will not only keep your house lit up during outages, but you will end up saving money by keeping frozen and refrigerated food protected and your appliances operating normally.

We don’t realize how much we value heat and hot water until it’s gone. If your water heater or furnace uses electricity, having a backup generator will keep heat and water sources running even when the power goes out. That way you can still take a nice hot shower and stay warm inside your home even if your neighborhood has lost power from the snow.

Homes with sump pumps know how important it is to keep them running. A stopped sump pump can allow water to accumulate, which can rapidly become a serious issue if your home is prone to flooding. With a backup generator in place, your sump pump will continue running without a hitch, keeping your mind at ease.

Having a backup generator for your business is a great investment as well. Whether your company handles refrigeration or needs power to continue to keep your products or machinery safe, a backup generator can help keep everything running smoothly when the storm hits and the power goes out.

For more information on backup generators or for help diagnosing and repairing electrical issues at your home or business, call Always On Electric today at 970-309-2616 and learn more about our full range of electrical services!

How Does Cold Weather Affect Electrical Systems?

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Cold weather can have a very big impact on how your electricity works. Winter can bring major storms in some areas of the country, and in Colorado, it definitely can. Freezing temperatures also can affect the way your electrical systems work and cost you more money when it comes to energy bills. The solution to the problem is to always make sure everything is running smoothly and properly before heading into the winter season or before a storm.

Electrical problems in home during Winter

What Occurs to Electrical Systems During the Winter

Yes, power outages can occur during the winter either from storms or freezing temperatures. For instance, if there are freezing temperatures, your electricity might have to work harder to heat your home. If your home has an electrical furnace, then it will be working harder, especially if there are other space heaters in specific rooms.

On certain colder days during the winter season, electrical heaters are turned up, which can cause the electrical system to overload, thus causing a power outage in many circumstances.

How to Prevent Electric System Problems

First and foremost, it’s essential that you minimize your energy use during the winter season. One of the easiest ways is to turn your thermostat down just a few degrees. This can help with your energy bills in the winter. Evaluate which rooms of your home you’re using the most. If you only spend time in a couple, use space heaters to heat those rooms for a short period while turning your furnace down for the rest of the home.

One of the best ways to make sure your home’s electrical systems are working properly is to have them serviced and evaluated by a professional like Always On Electric. We can make sure your backup generator is ready to go and make sure you have the correct service upgrades. Contact Always On Electric at 970-309-2616 today or visit us online for more information!

The Importance of Agricultural Electrical Maintenance

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Farming in the United States is one of the most important industries. Farmers work hard for many hours of the day making sure they can provide for several parts of the country. There are many negative factors that can impact farmers year-round. Some include weather related issues that can impact growth of crops and the timeline. Others can include electrical issues that can cause downtime. Like any other business or home, your utilities need to be working properly in order to live and make a living.

At Always On Electric, we have the electrical team to make sure your electrical is always on!

Agricultural electrician

The Benefits of Electrical Service for Your Farm

Electrical services can prevent major problems from happening to your business. In the agricultural industry, electricity and energy is relied on heavily for the farm’s function and working ability. Without functioning utilities, the farm could introduce itself to devastating issues.

How we can help:

We have the experience and professional electric service team to provide a new electrical system, as well as electrical fixes and repairs.

  • Tough Heaters
  • Standalone Services
  • Barn/Shop Lighting & Equipment
  • Irrigation Pumps, Well Pumps, Etc.
  • Gas Pumps and Equipment

The benefits of having a professional electrical service come and repair your system or get it up and running are extremely helpful. When running a farm, you need to make sure everything is working properly for your business to run properly.

Renewable Energy for the Agricultural Industry

As the world continues to implement renewable energy into farms, there will need to be more electrical services to keep up with new technology that is implemented. We’re looking forward to the innovation of electrical equipment on farms.

If you’re looking for a new electrical system on your farm, or you need some electrical maintenance, contact Always On Electric at 970-309-2616 today or visit us online for more information!