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A Checklist for Halloween Electrical Safety

Halloween is a time for tricks and treats, but it can also be a time for safety hazards if homeowners are not careful. This guide will share how to decorate the home safely for Halloween so homeowners can enjoy the holiday without worrying about accidents.

There are several things a homeowner should do during the decoration process that can keep the scary stuff fun and keep them from becoming a real cause for alarm, such as causing electrical fires.  

Make Sure They Pass an Inspection

Halloween comes but once a year, and that means that the decorations spend the majority of the time in storage, where it is easy for things to go unnoticed. Before setting up and plugging in decorations every year, a person should inspect them for damaged cords and wires. 

Rodents and other pests are known for making a mess of cords, and the age of the decor piece may mean that normal wear and tear have caused it to develop faulty wiring. Before plugging anything in, a homeowner should check for exposed wires, broken bulbs, and the main cord. Decorations suffering from damage are a safety hazard and shouldn’t be used. 

Have a Clear Strategy For Plugging in Decorations

Even if a person is not looking for a display to rival the Griswold’s Christmas lights, they should still be strategic about where things need to be plugged in. Overloading outlets causes electrical fires at worst, and at best, things will not work as they should. Below are a few safety tips for plugging in outdoor decorations:

• GFCI Outlets:  Outlets categorized as ground-fault circuit interrupters sense the balance of current flowing out of and back into a receptacle. If the flow becomes unequal, then the outlet breaks the circuit. These are perfect for outdoors because they prevent electric shock that can happen with contact with moisture.
• Avoid Water:Obviously, a person cannot protect their display from precipitation, but avoiding hoses, sprinkler systems, ponds, and swimming pools is a good safety precaution. The danger of electric shock goes way up if things are plugged in near water sources.
• Use Extension Cords Sparingly:Extension cords can be a valuable tool but can also cause tripping hazards and shock hazards. In addition, too many things plugged into one extension cord can get too hot and melt, causing serious damage.

Take Advantage of the Safety Features in Surge Protectors

One of the ways to increase safety is to use surge protectors. Surges in electricity cause higher-than-normal amounts of energy to run through a wire. Power surges can often cause damage to electronics, and the heat from the surge can ignite an electrical fire. Surge protectors are made to shut off when a power surge happens, protecting the electronics and the home.

Surge protectors come in whole-home models that electricians can install in a breaker box. They can also come in the form of a power strip for extra protection for things plugged into them. Surge protectors are important to prevent electrical fires and damage to any devices or decorations plugged into outlets during a surge.  

About Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

Southwest Florida Electric Inc. is a family-owned and operated company serving Fort Myers, FL, and the surrounding areas since 2010. They offer upfront pricing, on-time arrival, financing, and the latest technology. Call them today for whole house surge protector services in Fort Myers, FL.

Home Electrical Outlets with Safety Features

There is never a wrong time to give a home’s electrical outlets a closer look for safety. Homeowners might have noticed that some of their home’s outlets differ in function and appearance. Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI), childproof outlets, and arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCI) are the outlets with safety features that are most commonly found in homes. Each of these outlets serves a particular function that helps ensure the safety of a home and its occupants.

AFCI Outlets

An arc fault often happens when electrical wiring, devices, or appliances are damaged, overheated, or under other stress. The most frequent causes of arc faults are old, cracked, frayed electrical wires, overloaded outlets or circuits, or when a screw or nail pierces a wire through a wall. Arc faults are a cause of electrical fires. 

This is why having AFCI outlets in a home is essential. They literally “interrupt” an arc fault, living up to their name. An AFCI outlet will trip – or interrupt the power – when it detects a dangerous situation to protect against fires. They are typically required in rooms like family rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, and hallways. 

GFCI Outlets

GFCI outlets have a unique design that guards against overheating electrical systems and appliances. Additionally, it protects homeowners from dangerous electric shocks. All homeowners must install ground fault circuit interrupters in their homes in accordance with the National Electric Code. GFCI outlets are typically located in damp or frequently wet areas of houses like bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoor spaces.

According to research, one of the leading causes of electrical fires is leaking electrical current. This could be brought on by outdated wiring, deteriorating insulation, or frayed wiring. However, GFCI outlets are known to reduce the risk significantly. Homeowners can ensure that a steady power supply flows through their appliances by installing a GFCI outlet in their homes. The outlet will trip automatically if there is even a tiny electricity leak to protect all devices from damage.

Childproof Outlets

A typical wall outlet has two plugs on its face, where homeowners can connect any compatible electrical device. These plugs typically have three holes: a large hole below the center and two small vertical slots. The neutral and hot slots in standard outlet sockets are not blocked by anything, making it a hazard for young children. 

Children frequently try to insert objects into these holes, which can be extremely dangerous. This is why childproof outlets are so important. On childproof outlets, the neutral and hot slots are shielded by a cover on the inside of the outlet, which helps to address this safety concern. 

The cover can only be removed by simultaneously pressing down with the two prongs inserted in both slots while a device is plugged in. Retracting the covers will allow homeowners to plug devices in like a regular outlet, but once the plug is removed, the cover springs back into place.

About Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

Southwest Florida Electric Inc. is a family-owned and operated business serving Fort Myers, FL, and the surrounding areas. They offer upfront pricing, financing options, and the latest technology. Call them today for electrical outlet services in Fort Myers, FL. 

Understanding the Basics of Electrical Systems

Electrical systems are a fundamental part of many homes throughout the world. Electricity allows people to have light, enjoy electronic devices like TVs and computers, and keep food cold in refrigerators and freezers.

But there’s a lot to electrical systems that many homeowners don’t understand. In this article, we’ll go over some of the basics of electrical systems to help educate homeowners who lack an understanding of electrical systems.

Electrical System Components

An electrical system is more complicated than many are aware of. These systems have several components that work together to keep electricity flowing throughout a home or building. These components include:

• Power lines (outside)
• Electric meter
• Circuit breaker panel or electrical panel
• Disconnect switch
• Household wiring
• Electrical outlets
• Switches
• Lights

These components help keep the energy flowing safely and effectively throughout a home, giving occupants the power to carry out everyday tasks. The power lines help to transfer energy from the electric company to the house and are often found outside. The electric meter measures the amount of energy consumed and will determine the cost of the energy bill.

The circuit breaker panel works to distribute energy throughout the home and has a safety feature that turns off the breakers if a power overload happens. Household wiring also contributes to distributing electrical currents through the house to supply appliances with power.

Outlets are used to distribute energy from the wiring to appliances and devices. Switches can control whether or not power can flow to a certain area of the home or supply a room with light, and lights work to provide homeowners with a light source to see.

Signs of Electrical Problems

Electrical systems can experience problems, which can cause certain symptoms to occur. Common signs of a faulty electrical system include a burning smell, flickering lights, and sparking outlets.

These issues can indicate a serious problem, and homeowners who notice them should call a professional immediately before worse damage occurs. If ignored, these issues can quickly worsen and may cause significant damage, including fires that can damage the entire home and even impact the neighborhood.

Electrical Safety

When dealing with electrical appliances or systems, homeowners should exercise caution. One wrong move could cause an electrical shock, short circuit, or, worst-case scenario, an electrical fire.

That is why homeowners need to hire a professional electrician to conduct any electrical work instead of attempting to DIY. Also, homeowners should use caution regarding circuits. It’s important not to overload circuits as this can cause damage and may also result in a fire.

Homeowners should consult professionals no matter what the issue is concerning electrical systems. Professionals are experienced and trained to deal with electrical problems and will have the right tools and knowledge to make the necessary electrical repairs safely and effectively.

About Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

Southwest Florida Electric Inc. is a family-owned and operated business serving the residents of Fort Myers, FL, and the surrounding areas for over a decade. They provide upfront pricing, on-time arrival, and financing. Call them today for electrical services in Fort Myers, FL.

Preparing the Backyard for the Best Summer Party 

Summertime is all about getting together and being outside, so now is the perfect time for homeowners to make those backyard renovations they have wanted since winter. With an upgraded backyard, homeowners will have the ideal space to invite friends and family over to enjoy it with a BBQ. Below are a few ideas for making the backyard a welcoming space to create new memories with family and friends. 

Strategic Lighting Placement

Outdoor lighting is one of the easiest ways to create an atmosphere for a backyard gathering. There are several ways to light an outdoor space. Homeowners can highlight certain parts of the garden with landscape lighting, add pathway lights for safety, or hang string lights to enhance the party feel. 

Lighting is an important part of outdoor living, but homeowners should remember not to overload their outlets. LEDs or light-emitting diodes are often used as an energy-saving alternative to the traditional filament bulbs. Homeowners should consider solar lighting and battery-powered options to keep energy use down. 

Don’t Let a Power Outage Slow the Party Down

Homeowners can’t predict when a blackout might happen. Rising temperatures mean air conditioners are working harder and pulling more energy. This, combined with everyday electricity usage, can strain the electrical infrastructure. Weather events can also cause a power outage, and while a person cannot predict when this might happen, they can be prepared by investing in a generator. Advantages of having a generator are:

• Keeping the lights on 
• Keeping the home cool and comfortable
• Keeping the fridge and freezer on to prevent food from spoiling
• Making energy available for medical equipment
• Peace of mind for the household
• Keeping the music and lights going for a neighborhood party or BBQ

Amenities like Pools and Hot Tubs

Another backyard upgrade homeowners can consider is adding a pool or a hot tub. Not only are these upgrades fun for homeowners and their guests, but they can also improve the home’s property value. Here are a few things to keep in mind when considering adding a pool or hot tub:

• Hire a Pro: A professional electrician needs to install the electrical parts and do the wiring. They know the current electrical codes and regulations that must be followed to make the installation safe.
• Lighting:Don’t forget to have the electricians install lighting around the pool so people can see where they are going. This can prevent accidents. 
• Learn about GFCIs:Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters are vital for outdoor fixtures, including pools and hot tubs. They can prevent electric shock because they stop the flow of electricity when there is even a small variation in the flow of the current.
• Enjoy the Water:When all is said and done, the main reason for a pool or hot tub is enjoyment. The household needs to enjoy it more than anyone else. 

About Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

Southwest Florida Electric Inc. is a family-owned and operated company serving the residents of Fort Myers, FL, and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, financing, and on-time arrival. Call them today for electrical services in Fort Myers, FL. 

Protect the Home with a Whole House Surge Protector 

Summer is more than cookouts and spending time with friends and family. It’s also the peak time for thunderstorms, and with thunderstorms come power surges, which can wreak havoc on a home’s electrical system. They can also “fry” any devices plugged in, from video game consoles to computers. 

Luckily, homeowners can do something to protect their homes: install a whole house surge protector. There are countless benefits to installing a whole-house power surge protector. In this blog, professional electricians share what homeowners should know about protecting their residences from power surges this summer. 

Power Surges Are Dangerous 

A power surge is when a sudden burst of energy overwhelms the home’s electrical system. Some dangers of power surges are: 

• Electrical fires:Even a brief power surge can cause electrical fires, which can endanger homeowners’ safety and the safety of their homes. Electrical Safety Foundation Internationalnotes that there are 51,000 electrical fires yearly, and countless stem from power surges. 
• Lost food:Power surges can permanently damage a home’s appliances, such as the refrigerator. In a matter of hours, milk, eggs, meat, and anything else in the refrigerator can go bad. 
• Destroyed electrical devices:If a homeowner has their phone charging or another device plugged in when suddenly there’s a power surge, the device could stop working permanently if the home doesn’t have surge protection. 
• Damaged power outlets: The home’s outlet may not work as expected after a power surge. They could even emit foul odors or smoke when in use. They can also threaten homeowner safety when plugging something in. 

Power surges can also cause hidden damage to the home’s electrical grid, potentially contributing to problems in the future. 

The Benefits of Whole-House Surge Protection 

Some benefits of installing a whole-house surge protector include: 

• Homeowners can protect their devices: This is a no-brainer. By having a whole-home surge protector in place, they can prevent surges from “frying” their devices. This means they can have their devices and appliances plugged in at all times with no concerns––even during thunderstorms. 
• Homeowners can ensure their safety.Surge protectors reduce the likelihood of electrical fires, protecting the home and everyone in it. Remember: power surges cause thousands of electrical fires each year. 

Perhaps the biggest benefit of installing a whole-home surge protector is peace of mind. Homeowners can rest assured that they and their devices will be safe with a whole-home surge protector during inclement weather events. 

When Is It Time To Consider Whole-House Surge Protector Replacement? 

Surge protectors generally last two to five years, depending on the specific make and model. However, homeowners should consider whole-house surge protector repair or replacement even sooner if their home frequently loses power. 

Signs that it’s time to replace a surge protector include: 

• The light on the surge protector no longer turns on. 
• The home experiences frequent power outages. 
• Lights flicker on and off during thunderstorms. 

An electrician can evaluate a home’s surge protector and explain whether it needs replacement. 

About Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

Southwest Florida Electric Inc. is a local family-owned and operated company that serves the residents of Fort Myers, FL, and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, financing, on-time arrival, and the latest technology. Call them today for whole-home surge protectors in Fort Myers, FL. 

Importance of Electrical Safety

It’s Electrical Safety Month! This is the perfect time to brush up on electrical safety knowledge and make sure homeowners are doing everything they can to keep themselves and their families safe. Electrical safety is important for everyone to learn. After all, electrical fires are one of the leading causes of house fires in the United States. By following these simple tips, homeowners can keep their homes and families safe from electrical fires.

Don’t Overload Outlets

Overloading outlets is when too many devices are plugged into one outlet. It is one of the leading causes of electrical fires. Too much strain is put on the wiring when an outlet is overloaded. This can cause the wires to overheat and start a fire. 

To avoid starting an electrical fire, use power strips, surge protectors, and outlet covers instead of plugging multiple items into one outlet. Never plug more than two devices into one outlet, and be sure to unplug any appliances that aren’t being used.

Follow Recommended Wattage

Wattage is another important factor when it comes to electrical safety. Appliances like coffee makers and toasters all have a recommended wattage that shouldn’t be exceeded. Going over the recommended wattage can cause the device to overheat and start a fire. Electronics overheating could also ruin them permanently. 

All light bulbs also have a recommended wattage, and it’s important not to exceed that. Going over the recommended wattage can cause the bulb to overheat and start a fire. LED lightbulbs generally have very low wattages compared to normal light bulbs. Getting an LED bulb with a wattage lower than recommended for a lamp is fine because the wattage does not exceed the limit. So be sure to check wattages to help prevent electrical fires and destroyed appliances.

Don’t DIY Electrical Work

DIY electrical work is also a big no-no. DIY electrical work is never a good idea because homeowners attempting to do their own electrical work is extremely dangerous and can easily lead to a fire. If someone needs electrical work done, they should always hire a licensed professional. It’s not worth risking their lives over. And not only is it dangerous, but it’s also against the law in most states.

By following these simple tips, homeowners can help keep their homes safe from electrical fires. Be sure to practice electrical safety not only this month but every month!

About Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

Southwest Florida Electric Inc. is a family-owned and operated business that has served Fort Myers, FL, and the surrounding areas since 2010. They provide upfront pricing, financing options, and on-time arrival. Call them today for electrical services in Fort Myers, FL.

When Does an Electrical Panel Need Help?

Electrical panels are often forgotten about because homeowners do not have to think about them unless there is a problem. However, this does not mean that these panels do not need regular maintenance and routine checks. An electrical panel repair is necessary once it stops working since this panel controls the electricity in a home. It is best to look for an expert electrician who has experience working with electrical panels than to try and fix it without additional help.

However, knowing when to call is also key. Homeowners should be on the lookout for the following signs; flickering lights, a burning chemical smell, overall old age, and a lack of maintenance.

Flickering and Dull Lights

The lights of an electrical panel should be vibrant and bright. If the light is not vibrant or does not stay on for long, there could be a problem with either the electrical panel or the lightbulbs that control the lights.

Experts recommend first trying to see if the lightbulb is the problem. These small light bulbs are easy to find in general hardware stores and only take a few minutes to replace and install. If the small lights stop flickering and work, the job is complete. However, flickering or dull lights can sometimes signify an open circuit using too much energy.

Burning Chemical Smell

There should never be a burning chemical smell coming from the electrical panel or any electrical line. This is a sign that something is wrong, and homeowners should immediately turn off their lights and unplug outlets. Residents and homeowners should call technicians to solve the problem as soon as possible.

If there is a burning smell, it is usually because the system is overworking and overheating. This is a big problem since the burning smell comes from the electrical panel connected to the rest of the home’s electricity. This is dangerous as just one spark can cause a large fire in a home! It can also cause a short circuit to all outlets, meaning anything plugged in is in danger of frying.

Old Age and Low Maintenance

Electric panels work for a maximum of 30 to 40 years before declining. Wear and tear, age, and a lack of maintenance can decrease the system’s life expectancy. As a homeowner, you are responsible for maintaining your electrical panel. This includes making sure the panel is clean, free of debris, and functioning properly.

Dust and dirt can build up on the panel, which can cause it to overheat and malfunction. Once a month, use a damp cloth to wipe down the panel. Check for signs of wear and tear. Look for cracks, rust, or other damage that could cause problems. If you see any damage, have a professional check it out as soon as possible. Check the panel for loose connections. Over time, connections can become loose, which can cause problems.

Proper maintenance checks can help extend the lifespan of the electrical panel and help catch problems before they occur or worsen. Call a professional about the electrical panel if any of the signs above are noticed.

About Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

Southwest Florida Electric Inc. is a family-owned and operated business serving Fort Myers, FL, and the surrounding areas since 2010. They provide upfront pricing, exceptional customer service, and are fully licensed and insured. Call them today for electrical services in Fort Myers, FL.

If your generator isn’t operating the way it did when it was first installed, there might be something wrong.

Just like you always want to check your car at the first sign of trouble, it’s best to have a temperamental generator checked out. Small problems can cascade into bigger, more costly issues if they aren’t taken care of in a timely manner.

Here are some signs your generator may need attention:

1. You see visible damage.

This seems like an obvious sign, but some homeowners choose the “ignore it and it’ll go away” option. Let us assure you: neglecting visible damage on your generator will certainly not make it go away.

Things to look out for include wires that appear loose, worn, or frayed. Additionally, one of the most common issues we see is the classic ripped broken pull cord on portable generators. Check out our post for replacing the cord yourself or give us a call.

Visible damage on exterior automatic generators is common as well, due to previous hurricane storm damage or even from troublesome outdoor pests. Look for corrosion, dents, chewed wires, or other evident signs of imperfections on your unit every six months, if not more frequently.

2. You’re experiencing start-up delays.

If your generator doesn’t start right away or hesitates when trying to fire up, this could be a sign of internal problems. Commonly, this could mean the generator is working with bad or old fuel, that sludge is caught in the tank or lines, or that it’s time to replace your fuel filter.

Even if the generator starts on the third or fourth try, issues like this shouldn’t be ignored. Next time you go to use it, it may not start at all.

3. Your power is inconsistent. 

This is another case of the “it works ‘good enough’” state of mind. If you’ve ever thought this, we bet your generator is providing power, but not consistently. It has a nasty habit of turning on and off whenever it feels like it.

We hate to break it to you, but this could be a sign of internal damage. Flickering lights or inconsistent power supply from a generator could also be a sign that you don’t have the appropriate wattage generator for your electrical needs. Be sure to read our article on “How to Find the Right Sized Generator” to ensure your power source has enough juice to maintain your home or business appliances and lights.

4. The generator is running, but it’s not putting out any electricity. 

This one is tricky, because it could be a problem with your generator, or, it could be a problem with your breakers. This is definitely a matter for your trusted electrician to solve. They can test your electric panel to determine if that’s the problem or not, or poke around inside your generator if that’s the culprit.

5. You notice a strange smell or noise.

Your generator should never emit an unusual smell. This could be a sign of a gas leak, and is an evident fire hazard and health safety concern.

Similarly, bizarre sounds like squeaking, humming, and rattling are not normal noises you should ever hear your generator making. These could all be caused by a number of factors, from low fuel to an overworked unit, but can be hard to diagnose without the help of a professional.

6. You haven’t started the generator in more than 6 months.

Most electricians would agree, running your portable generator every few months will keep the electric starter’s battery fresh and charged. Even automatic generators can benefit from a good, ol’ test fire, just to make sure nothing is awry when you actually need it.

Usually home and business owners alike discover their generator has issues after sitting idle for long periods of time. Sometimes, the fix just requires quick maintenance care, but other times the damage is more costly and extensive— especially if there’s sludge in the lines or corrosion from inactivity.

Prevention is the Best Medicine

While this advice isn’t much help if your generator is already failing, it still holds true. Routine maintenance will help identify any potential problems before they become severe. Aside from this, regularly scheduled maintenance can extend the life of your generator and improve its efficiency, saving you money in the long run.

Have a portable generator? Check out our Tips for Maintaining & Servicing Your Portable Generator here.

If your generator is a permanent automatic unit, it’s sometimes best to leave the inspection and servicing to the professionals.

Choose a Licensed Service & Maintenance Professional

While it may be tempting to try and service your generator yourself, as with any electrical repair, this can be dangerous. You could get hurt, you’ll void any warranty, and you may inadvertently cause more damage that you’ll need a licensed, certified technician to repair.

The same goes for hiring a general handyman or other unlicensed, uncertified repair professional; you run the risk of further damage to your generator from improper fixes, which could affect you both immediately or later when something fails.

Bottom line, if your generator is in need of repair or if you are ready to start a regular maintenance schedule, contact us today. We service generators of all types and sizes, from small, home emergency backups to large commercial generators— in all of Lee County.

Discover what makes our team at SWFL Electric different from other electricians in the area, and explore our generator repair services.