If you are like most families, you probably have an extension cord – if not multiples – around your house. But did you know that these are among the most dangerous electrical appliances in your home? If not used properly or cared for appropriately, an extension cord could be the cause of fatal injuries, electrocutions, or even a house fire.

Not all extension cords are the same and it is important to select the appropriate extension cord for your needs. The next time you go to grab the same old extension cord, ask yourself these three questions that will help you determine whether it is appropriate for the task at hand.

If you are looking to use an extension cord outside, you must check to make sure that it is equipped for such. An outdoor extension cord has tougher insulation/jacket allowing it to withstand moisture, temperature change, UV rays, etc. An extension cord that is safe for outside use will say so clearly on its packaging. If you are not sure, contact the manufacturer.

The length and gage of your extension cord will determine the wattage rating of the cord. Ensure your device(s) wattage doesn’t exceed the cords wattage, this could cause overheating and/or a fire. The wattage of a device is generally found on a tag attached to the cord. Again, if you are not sure, contact the manufacturer to clarify. Better safe than sorry!

Another important consideration is the length of time that you are using the extension cord. An extension cord is only intended for temporary use. Leaving an extension cord plugged in will cause electricity to continue to circulate through the device and could potentially cause overheating, a fire or defects to the device. If you are looking for a permanent fix, look into installing more electrical outlets around your home and plug your device directly into the outlet.

For more information on how to ensure the safety of your home and devices, contact Expert Electric at 604-681-8338.

As its name implies, an Arc-fault Circuit Interrupter is designed to detect electrical arcing, and turn off the current to wiring or appliances where arcing is occurring. An electrical arc occurs anytime an electric current jumps through a gap or air space between two conductors. This typically produces a visible spark or sparks. We’re all familiar with small sparks which can be seen inside electric tools and motors, and tiny sparks which may occur when we plug an electrical device into a wall outlet. Small levels of arcing are normal and benign in these places, but dangerous arcing is a different matter. Dangerous levels of arcing can involve damaged insulation, worn or broken conductors, many other electrical problems. This type of arcing is the single greatest cause for electrical fires across our continent and has resulted in hundreds of human fatalities, hundreds of thousands of fires, and billions of dollars in property damages. AFCI’s are designed to detect dangerous levels of arcing while ignoring benign occurrences. When dangerous arcing occurs, an AFCI will immediately detect this and turn off the electrical current for the affected circuit. If someone tries to reset the AFCI, and it trips again rapidly, this is typically an indicator of a larger problem.

While a GFCI is designed to detect electricity which has become shorted to ground, an AFCI is designed to detect arcing within wiring or electrical devices or appliances. AFCI units look a lot like circuit breakers and are typically located inside breaker boxes, rather than outlets. However, they are able to detect dangerous arcing conditions a breaker cannot detect. In addition, AFCIs are manufactured for circuits carrying up to 100 amps, so they can protect buildings from arcing in large equipment like stoves and central air units.

AFCIs have been developed and mandated by law to protect lives and property from electrical fires caused by arcing. However, many older homes and buildings have not been retrofitted with these devices and remain unprotected. To make matters worse, older buildings are more likely to have outdated wiring and appliances, and insulation problems and other conditions which cause arcing problems.

If you are concerned about your wiring and would like to schedule a safety inspection, call Bryant Electric Service at 512-402-8587. Our electricians are licensed and equipped to inspect electrical systems, and can determine if your home or building is sufficiently protected by AFCI protective devices.

Who wouldn’t love to live with a little less clutter? There’s a reason Pinterest is overflowing with images of perfectly categorized & organized cupboards, closets, pantries, drawers, desks, garages, kitchens … the list goes on! via artisticdesignsforliving.com

Track lighting has become incredibly popular for residential settings in the past couple of years. After installation, the light fixtures can be moved along the track easily, making them perfect for storage spaces where your lighting needs may change over time. Their spotlighting effect adds a touch of drama.

2. Multi-Functional Closet Rods (Built-in LEDs!)

3. Illumination Without the Fixture

4. Glamor in an Unexpected Place

By Clarissa Allison | August 21st, 2015

The garage’s original purpose – protecting vehicles – has been transformed. Families inevitably use their garage as an additional storage,  work stations, and hobby/entertainment areas. Proper lighting is necessary to make the garage functional and complimentary to any equipment and the overall garage design. Now we have a multitude of lighting options to select from in order to make the garage a venue for all of our needs. Read on to find out how you can turn your garage into a haven for finishing projects and family fun, simply by upgrading your lighting solutions!

Fluorescent Lights