Electrical Safety Tips For The Winter Season

It is the time of the year that many people feel the crunch of the rising cost of heating oil and electric bills.  Many consumers will try to save money by using portable space heaters and electric blankets.  Read the following tips to be safe this winter.  Call Sylvia Electrical Contracting for GFI outlets, switches, and generators.  We handle installation of smoke alarms.  Call us at 978-535-6661 for a free estimate.

General Safety Tips

1. Try to avoid using candles for lighting during a power outage. Instead use flashlights and other battery-powered lights which are not a potential fire hazard.
2. Make sure you have a good supply of flashlights, batteries, and other such supplies in case of emergency.
3. When the power goes out, turn off any major appliances, leaving only a light or two in the "on" position to act as a signal for when the power returns. Larger appliances left on can cause an over-load.
4. When disconnecting an electrical cord, pull from the plug, not the cord itself.
5. Make sure that your electrical devices are in good working order. Check for worn electric cords and broken switches. Broken or bent parts in a heater can cause fires and electrical shock.
6. Eliminate "octopus" connections. Plugging multiple cords into a single socket can overload the circuit and cause a fire.
7. Remember than no matter how safety conscious you think you are, things can always go wrong. It is a good idea to prepare for the unexpected. A good functioning smoke alarm can dramatically increases your chances of surviving a fire. Make sure that the batteries checked frequently. Also a class C fire extinguisher can save lives and damage.

Safety Tips for Portable Space Heaters

1. Keep drapes, newspapers, clothing and other combustible objects a safe distance away.
2. Plug portable space heaters directly into the outlet. Do not use extension cords or 3-in 1 adapters.
3. Always put heaters in a place where they can't be tipped over easily. It's best to keep them on the floor where they have less of a chance of falling and becoming a potential fire or shock hazard.
4. Do not use heaters in wet or moist areas, such as bathrooms, unless they are specifically built for that purpose. Doing so can not only corrode the heater, but can be a dangerous shock hazard.
5. Make sure that the plug of the heater fits snugly in the outlet. A worn-out outlet can overheat, burning up both the outlet and plug. If left unnoticed, this can start a fire throughout the house.
   Note: The plug of the heater will usually get warm to the touch when the heater is in use. This is OK. Make sure that it doesn't get hot.
6. Do not run cords under rugs or carpets. Doing so can cause the cord to overheat and start a fire.
7. Broken heaters should be checked and repaired only by a qualified appliance service center. Do not attempt to make any repairs to the heater yourself.
8. Don't use space heaters in rooms where children are unsupervised. Children may stick their fingers or other objects through the protective guards, causing burns or shock.
9. Turn off the space heater and unplug it when not in use.

Safety Tips for Electric Blankets and Heating Pads

1. Electric blankets (that one covers with) and electric heating pads (that put directly on the mattress) should not be used interchangeably or at the same time.
2. Before plugging in your electric blanket or pad, check for any damage and inspect for worn cords and other damage.
3. Never get into bed with a heating pad switched on. Unplug it first otherwise it may overheat and catch fire. Likewise, never lie on top of an electric blanket when it's switched on. This could also start a fire.
4. Electric blankets should not be tucked under the mattress and nothing should be placed on top of the blanket while it is in use (including quilts, blankets and other covers).
   Use the ties on the heating pad to secure it to the mattress. This prevents slipping and creasing which could damage the elements.
5. Do not fold the electric blanket while it's being used. This can cause the blanket to overheat and burn out. Make sure the blanket has a mechanism to cut off the power if the blanket overheats
6. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using the electric blanket or pad. Most advise against using heating blankets on waterbeds, sofas, bunk beds, or mechanical beds.
7. When washing the blanket, make sure it is completely dry before use. Never dry-clean an electrical blanket because the chemicals can damage the heating insulation and increase the risk of fire.

By: Jonathan Z. Kremer

DON'T BE LEFT OUT IN THE COLD

Winter is here.  It is not too late to prepare for the next winter ice storm and blizzard.  Generators are still in stock and ready for delivery.  Our licensed electricians are ready for the installation.

What is the definition of a generator:  A device that can supply electricity to your home or business during power outages is casually referred to as a generator.

During an emergency, it allows you to continue using essential appliances such as air conditioners, heaters, refrigerators, as well as lights. An electric generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electric energy. Let one of our qualified licensed electricians discuss your generator options.

Below is more information on choosing the right generator for your needs.  There is a generator for every budget.  Read the information below and call us today for a free estimate.  Remember a licensed electrician should always install generators and outlets.  We are here to help you make an informed decision about the best emergency back up generator for home or business use.

HOW TO CHOOSE A GENERATOR

Home generators can be portable or stationary (sometimes referred to as standby). They run on a variety of fuels, such as gasoline, diesel fuel, natural gas (NG), and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Portable gasoline models run generally on the least expensive end. For a long term emergency consider standby units. Standby generators come in a variety of KW sizes to suit just about every need.  Standby generators will provide continuous power because they are hooked up to an external fuel source, such as natural gas line.

SELECTING THE FUEL

Your choice of fuel should be determined by the type of generator you choose. Most residential standby generators can run on either natural gas or LPG (usually called propane). Portable generators generally run on gasoline.

GENERATOR INSTALLATION

A standby generator is mounted outdoors on a cement pad near the fuel source. Many models already come with a mounting pad, but you still need to prepare a location that is flat and has provisions for water drainage. To prevent exhaust gases from entering a home or business, locate the unit in a well-ventilated area away from doors or windows. Call Sylvia Electrical for a free estimate and to discuss your generator needs.

HOW TO WIRE YOUR SYSTEM

A standby power backup device connects to the home or business wiring via a transfer switch. The transfer switch prevents "back-feeding" into utility lines (which is dangerous and illegal). Many standby generators come with a pre-wired transfer switch. It is strongly recommended that all electrical connections be done by a licensed electrician.

We would be happy to discuss all your generations options with you. Call 978-535-6661 today! Don't be left in the cold.

Use This Winter Electrical Safety Checklist

The change of seasons is an ideal time to use your cool weather electrical safety checklist to avoid potentially lethal electrical hazards, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, which offers the following safety tips:

Outdoor tools and appliances

• Safely store warm weather tools like lawn mowers and trimmers. Check cold weather tools, such as leaf and snow blowers, along with their power cords, for unusual wear and tear. Repair or replace worn tools or parts right away.
• Unplug and safely store battery chargers that won't be in use again until spring.
• Use only weatherproof electrical devices for outside activities. Protect outdoor electrical devices from moisture. Make sure electrical equipment that has been wet is inspected and reconditioned by a certified repair dealer.
• Keep dry leaves swept away from outdoor lighting, outlets and power cords.

Holiday decorations and costumes

• Ensure all holiday lighting and extension cords are in good repair, with no fraying, cracking or cuts, and are certified by an independent testing lab such as UL, CSA or ETL. Follow the rating for indoor or outdoor use.
• Never connect more than three strands of decorative lights together. Make sure all connections are tight and protected from inclement weather, including the outlet. Unplug the lights from the outlet when not in use.
• Make sure spotlights used to highlight decorations are well-ventilated, protected from weather and are a safe distance from anything flammable, such as shrubs and bushes, dry leaves or fabric decorations.
• Keep power and extension cords out of pathways.
• Do not coil power cords or extension cords while in use. Do not tuck them under rugs, carpets or curtains. They may overheat, causing a fire hazard.

Electric blankets

• Make sure electric blankets are in good repair and certified by an independent testing lab such as UL, CSA or ETL. Power cords should not be frayed, cracked or cut.
• Do not tuck your electric blanket into mattresses or under children, and don't put anything on top of the blanket while in use, such as comforters or bedspreads.
• Never allow pets to sleep on the electric blanket.

 Power Outages

• Make sure you have candles and outage kits, food, water, etc. 
• Sylvia Electrical can give you prices on portable or stand-alone generators so you don't have to be left in the dark.
• Even portable generators can keep your heat and refrigerator going

Sylvia Electrical can help with all your electrical needs.  Our local electricians are ready to help you.  Call us today at 978-535-6661 for a free estimate.
 

SERVICES WE OFFER TO OUR CUSTOMERS

Often times we forget just how much we depend on electricians and electrical contractors.  Here are some of the services that Sylvia Electrical can offer both residential and business  owners. 

If your lights flicker, you have had water damage, added an addition or remodel an electrical panel upgrade would be in order.  Perhaps your house was built during the 1950's when knob and tube wiring was currently being used.  In 2012 knob and tube wiring needs to be replaced if you are selling your house or trying to obtain home insurance.  It can be potentially unsafe if not checked and updated.

Are you the type of homeowner that uses extension cords and  outlet strips in your home.  It may be time to have a licensed, insured electrician in your area install additional electrical outlets.  Do you want to update a room?  A quick fix would be to install new fixtures, track lighting or recessed fixtures.  If you would like another alternative to expensive air conditioning, have a ceiling fan installed.  They are cooling and more energy efficient.  These inexpensive updates can seem intimidating to many homeowners.  Call Sylvia Electrical for prices that will make it a worthwhile investment.

As you are aware televisions are getting bigger and bigger.  They no longer sit on a small tv stand in a room.  They are high definition wall mounted televisions.  If you do not want to see wires and wire mold coming down the wall, call us.  Our electricians can install outlets on the wall and hide the wires for a professional clean look.  If you need telephone, cable or internet wiring, we can handle that.

Maybe you have installed a new hot tub, spa, or swimming pool.  Remember that these need special GFI outlets and wiring.  This must be done to comply with the National Electrical code and for safety reasons.  Water and electricity are a dangerous combination.

We have not forgotten our commercial customers.  We are experts at commercial and tenant suit ups.  Our licensed electricians can upgrade panels to accommodate new equipment.  We can install motors, exhaust fans and transformers.  We can offer insightful alternatives to adding energy to help your company move ahead.  Owner Steve Sylvia, master electrician and electrical contractor can design all phases of electrical installations.

Safety is always a concern.  Installing landscape lighting and video surveillance equipment can help to keep family and businesses safe.  Sylvia Electrical can offer a wide array of outdoor lighting ideas and surveillance equipment.  Don't let summer storms or severe winter weather keep you in the dark.  We are certified generator installers.  There are generator for every need.

Call 877-535-6661 for a free estimate to discuss your business or residential needs.

• Electrical Panel Upgrades
• Electrical Outlet and Fixture Installation
• Generator Installation for commercial and residential customers
• Commercial and Tenant Suit-ups
• New and Remodel Residential Construction
• Motors, Exhaust Fans, and Transformers
• Appliance circuits, hot tubs and spas & landscape lighting
• Telephone, cable, and Internet wiring
• Flat Screen TV installation
• Recessed lighting, track lighting, dimmers & cabinet lighting
• Electrical Code corrections
• Designing all phase Electrical Installations
• Ceiling Fan Installations
• Knob and Tube Wiring
• Solar Installations
• Video Surveillance
  
  

    

5 Dangerous Electrical Situations (And How to Deal With Them)

The stance most of us take with our electrical system is "out of sight, out of mind', but sometimes it can act in ways we don't expect. Read up on these 5 scenarios so you aren't left in the dark (or worse)!

What To Do If... a GFCI Trips the Circuit.
If your GFCI has cut off power to whatever appliance you are using, it is because the current began leaking instead of all being directed back to the source. One of the most common causes is that the appliance has come into contact with moisture. If your GFCI trips:

• Turn off and unplug the appliance. (It's easy to forget to actually turn it off since the power has already been cut off, but if you don't then you're in for a surprise when you plug it back in!)
• Check it for moisture. If you find any, dry it off thoroughly.
• Make sure your hands are dry.
• Plug the appliance back in.
• Press the "reset" button on the GFCI.
• Turn the appliance back on.

If the outlet still does not work or continues to trip frequently, call an electrician as there may be a greater problem than moisture.

What To Do If... Your Electricity Goes Out.
You're sitting there minding your own business and the next thing you know, it's pitch black and your music has stopped, the microwave doesn't show the time, and the sorrowful howl of a wolf echoes on the wind as scraggly branches scrape your window like long fingers. Maybe.
First things first- assess your situation. Did ALL of your power go out, or just a portion of the house? What is the weather like? Have you got practically-apocalyptic thunderstorms, or is it bright and sunny?
Next, get thee to the electrical panel. Check all of the breakers including the main breaker: are any of them tripped? If so, switch them back to "on" and see if that solves your problem. If not....
Check to see if anyone else in your area has experienced a power outage, and call your electricity provider's emergency number.
In a situation like this you will discover very quickly whether you are prepared. Have you got emergency candles, matches, blankets, and a battery-powered radio in an easy-to-reach place?

What To Do If... Someone Experiences an Electrical Shock.
As you may know, electrical shocks can occur with different levels of severity. Some do little more than raise the hair on your arms and make a loud "POP". Others leave a nasty burn. Others still leave no evidence at all, but that doesn't mean they are not dangerous.
The first thing to do is to make sure that the individual is no longer in contact with the source of the shock. Whether it was an outlet, an appliance, or a conductor, make sure that the victim is no longer touching it. In the event of a severe burn during which the muscles seize and the victim can't let go, the first thing you should do is try and turn the power off at the breaker.

• DO NOT touch the source of the shock, even if that's where the power switch is.
• Turn off the main breaker if you have to. If this is not possible, use something dry and non-conductive (like a dry wooden broomstick) to push the person away from the source.
• Call 911.

After a less-severe shock (that the victim was able to let go of by his/herself), have the victim sit down and assess the damage:

• Are there any burns or marks at the shock location?
• Does the victim feel lightheaded, dizzy, or have vague pain anywhere in his/her body? It is possible for internal organs to be damaged from a shock even if you can't see any outward signs.
• If anything seems "off", such as tingling, numbness, paralysis, vision/speech/hearing problems, or any period of unconsciousness, seek medical attention regardless of how the person says he/she feels.

What to Do If... An Electrical Fire Breaks Out
Electrical fires are special. Contrary to everything we learned in school about fire, you can't fight an electrical fire with water. Water plus electricity equals more danger. If you accidentally get wet near volatile electrical wiring or equipment, or even touch anything wet near the electrical source you are putting yourself in serious danger.
If a fire breaks out and you know that it has an electrical source (such as at an outlet, at your electrical panel, or an appliance that is plugged in), use a chemical fire extinguisher to put out the flame. Baking soda is also a good choice, if you can get to it safely and quickly. Never try to put it out with water. If you don't have access to a chemical extinguisher, unplug the equipment if it is safe to do so, turn off the power at the electrical panel if you can, and exit the area.
Call 911 and tell them it is an electrical fire so they can combat it properly and safely.

What to Do If...You Discover Damaged Wires/Wiring
Say you're doing a little TLC around the house, maybe working on a honey-do list, and you discover some wires that are cracked, frayed, or otherwise damaged. Regardless of whether they are still functioning, it is important to immediately call a licensed electrician to have them inspect it and replace the wiring if necessary.
If you are concerned that the wiring may cause an immediate hazard (the outlet/switch/area is hot to the touch, buzzing, or emitting smoke or sparks), turn off the power at the circuit breaker. Do not use electricity in that area until the problem has been resolved.

Call 877-535-6661 and talk to the qualified, licensed electricians at Sylvia Electrical for a free estimate.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6879390 by Sharayah Pranger

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM OVERLOADS

Electrical System Overload

There is Increased electrical use during hot summer weather which increases the risk of fires in homes with older or damaged wiring systems. Summertime necessities, such as air conditioning, can strain and overload an electrical system, creating a serious shock and fire hazard.

"Nationwide, an estimated 50 million older homes and buildings with outdated electrical wiring and systems are at greater risk of dangerous deterioration and becoming overloaded," says Safe Electricity Director Molly Hall.

The wiring of many homes is not equipped to properly handle and support today's increased electrical demands. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), more than half of all homes in the U.S. are at least 30 years old. The wiring in many of these older homes was designed to handle only about half of the electrical demands of today's residents.
"Overloaded electrical circuits, and faulty equipment and wiring can cause not only inconvenient power outages, but hazardous conditions that could result in injury, or even death," says Hall.

Watch for these warning signs. If you have any of these present, you should have your home inspected by a professional:

• Lights often flicker, blink or dim momentarily
• Circuit breakers trip or fuses blow often
• Cords or wall plates are warm to the touch or discolored
• Crackling, sizzling or buzzing is heard from outlets

A home electrical inspection to find and correct hidden hazards could prevent many of these tragedies. The time and investment in having a qualified electrician check your residence, and perform a few home repairs and upgrades are small compared with the protection and safety they provide to your family and home.

No matter the season or age of homes, residents should be vigilant and check for electrical hazards such as cracked or fraying electrical cords, overloaded outlets and circuits, and improper wattage light bulbs in lamps and light fixtures. Also, make sure smoke alarms are placed and functioning properly.

Call Sylvia Electrical Contracting at 877-535-6661 for a free estimate and home evaluation.

Understanding Solar Energy

FLASH:

Sylvia Electric installs first solar energy Fronius solar inverter with revenue meter and sun meter. Read the following to understand the importance of renewable energy.

Basics of photovoltaic systems

How does a photovoltaic installation work?

General information:

The solar energy received globally is approx. 1,540,000,000,000,000,000kWh/year (1,540 peta kWh/year). This is 15,000 times more than the world wide energy consumption. Congratulations on your decision to actively use this largest energy pool worldwide. By the way, did you know that solar energy was first discovered in 1839 by the physicist Alexandre-Edmond Becquerel?

The somewhat strange-sounding term "photovoltaics" originates in the driving force behind this technology, the light beam. A light beam consists of nimaginably tiny particles, the photons.

Generating power on the roof:

To simplify matters, let's start by explaining a pure silicon solar cell. If we recall what we learned in our physics lessons, silicon features 4 electrons in the outer electron shell of the atomic nucleus, the so-called valence electrons. The photons, i.e. the sunlight, bombard the solar cells and enrich the valence electrons with energy. The electrons are finally knocked off the silicon atom and leave a positive atom behind. For the free electrons to move into the right direction and to allow current to be generated, the front surface and the back surface of the cell need to be polarized differently. So the silicon atoms at the front surface are doped with a minor quantity of phosphorus atoms featuring an extra valence electron. On the back surface of the cell, however, boron atoms with only three valence electrons are added to the silicon atoms. This establishes a voltage difference between the positive and negative pole and allows electrons to flow, that's how current is generated. A large number of these solar cells put together and encapsulated with glass will then form one of your solar modules.

Converting power under the roof:

DC generated in the solar modules can be used in the household or fed into the utility transmission grid, provided it is first converted into AC. This is the core task of the Fronius inverter. Your Fronius inverter is a solar inverter of the most recent generation. It represents a highly complex link between the solar modules and the utility transmission grid. It is therefore expected to fulfill a series of highly demanding tasks.

Conversion of DC into AC:

The Fronius inverters convert DC, generated in the solar modules, into AC. Synchronized with the supply voltage, this AC is then either fed into the circuit of your home or into the utility transmission grid. The Fronius inverter were developed exclusively for application in utility interactive PV installations. For more information on circuit diagrams, please turn to the installation and service instructions.

Fully automated operation:

Fronius inverters operate in a fully automated manner. After sunrise, as soon as there is sufficient output generated by solar modules, the control unit starts monitoring the utility line voltage and frequency as well as the energy offer. Once enough sunlight is received, the solar inverter starts feeding the utility transmission grid. Depending on the type of installation, a few watts of solar power will be enough do the job!

The Fronius inverter will now continue to work in a way to always draw the maximum of power from the solar modules. This function is called MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) and is carried out with a rate of accuracy of more than 99%. After dark, when the energy offered is no longer enough to feed the utility transmission grid, the Fronius inverter automatically cuts the connection to the grid and stops operating, of course with all settings and data being conserved.

Voltage transformation and galvanic separation:

The Fronius inverters are designed to be used in solar modules with a wide range of input voltage, which allows to use the most varied types of solar modules. Consider that the indicated values for the maximum DC voltage (total voltage of all solar cells connected) must never be exceeded. Thanks to its structure and its way of working, a Fronius inverter provides a maximum of safety, from installation and mounting to operation. The Fronius IG inverter is the first solar inverter to feature a HF transformer (HF =high frequency) that ensures a galvanic separation of the DC side from the utility transmission grid. In addition, the HF conception allows a radical reduction of the transformer's size, it therefore needs a lot less space and weighs much less. Despite the complete galvanic separation, Fronius inverters accomplish a high level of efficiency thanks to innovative circuit conceptions.

Grid monitoring:

Inverters from Fronius also assume the task of monitoring the grid. This term includes all measures required for the protection of people and devices in case of a utility outage. Fronius inverters are programmed to immediately stop operating in case of irregular grid conditions (e.g. utility outage, interruption) and to interrupt feeding the grid. There is a series of possibilities for Fronius inverters to identify a utility outage:

* Voltage monitoring
* Frequency monitoring
* Measuring the line resistance (only with the Fronius IG featuring ENS)
* Intended feeding of a slightly modified frequency or voltage

In this context it is important to know that the Fronius inverters are able to carry out the monitoring procedures applicable in each country by themselves, without additional electronic measuring devices. This considerably reduces installation work and all related costs.

Display and data communication:

The high technical complexity of novel solar inverters requires a perfect display design, which is actually the "interface" with the user. It is uncompromisingly designed for easy operation and permanent availability of the system data. Fronius inverters already feature a fundamental logging function for recording data on minimum and maximum values directly on the display - on a daily, yearly and a total basis.

As an option feature, the display also allows indicating the following weather related data:

* 2 different temperature values (e.g. temperature near the solar
modules, outside temperature in the shade)
* Insolation
* Wind velocity
* Atmospheric pressure
* Relative atmospheric humidity

In addition to the functions implemented in the Fronius inverters, a wide range of elements for data communication offered provides a large number of possibilities for data recording and visualizing. Required system expansions are easy to install. The appealing box provides space for a large number of system expansions, with a focus on easy connection to all current and new media, such as remote inquiry via modem, e-mail, internet, SMS, fax, etc.

Your benefit:

The more of the above tasks the photovoltaic inverter is able to do itself, the easier and cheaper the installation will be as there are no more additional peripherals needed. Thanks to our experience and highly innovative technologies, the Fronius inverters can handle all these tasks simultaneously. It furthermore meets a series of requirements for the protection of people, household appliances and the inverter itself.

Some of these requirements are:

* Grid monitoring
* The type of current fed into the grid
* Response to interferences (e.g. mobile phones)
* Intended feeding of a slightly modified frequency or voltage