It doesn’t feel like it yet, but fall is coming! Cooler weather and clearer nights are on the way; perfect time for some home hot tub relaxation. But when our electricians in Baltimore talk hot tubs, we have some concerns. These stem from various issues, but they can all mean one thing in the end: danger.

At Kolb Electric, your safety always comes first. Yes, even before our service (though you might argue that they go hand-in-hand; we would). If you’re considering a hot tub installation, or you’re just getting primed and ready to make use of the one you have, there are some factors we would like you to consider.

Looking for industry-leading electricians in Baltimore for your hot tub or home appliance wiring? Contact Kolb today!

The definition of the word faulty is “working badly or unreliably because of imperfections”, so when we’re talking wiring, faulty can mean old or damaged, or poorly installed. Both of these are equally dangerous and can lead to electric shock, electrocution, and fires! It’s serious business and we aim to help ensure you never deal with these potential threats.

So why are we so worried about hot tubs? Aside from the fact that they’re almost literally giant bathtubs with an electric current, once they’ve been installed many homeowners opt to never have the wiring inspected for water damage or replaced.

And even further beyond, some homeowners regard hot tub wiring as a DIY job. It’s really, really not. Wiring can get complex, and when you’re dealing with something as potentially volatile as electricity (especially when that electricity is surrounded you water!), even the tiniest mistake can become a harmful and even deadly issue.

So how do you get the glorious hot tub you’ve always dreamed of with none of the risks? Do these:

Hot tubs are made to be enjoyed, not worried over! When you’re ready for an installation, trust in the team at Kolb. Or if you’ve already got a hot tub, let our team make sure your system is working safely and effectively. Contact our experts today for the superior service and safety assurance you deserve!

A surge suppressor, commonly referred to as a surge protector, is a tool designed to protect electrical equipment from sudden increases in voltage. The suppressor works by limiting the voltage allotted to an electrical device, by grounding any voltage beyond the appropriate threshold.

Suppressors are often used in industrial settings with devices installed in communication systems, power distribution panels and process control systems. Smaller versions of suppressors are used in homes to protect household appliances from voltage hazards.  These types of suppressors are different from protecting plug strips that are commonly used for plugging multiple electronics into the same area.

If you are looking for ways to save money this summer, you should consider having a staycation rather than a luxurious vacation. Virginia offers great spots to spend a romantic weekend or a weeklong getaway. Not only will this save you money this summer, it will also give you a chance to explore the beautiful state you call home! The wonderful thing about Virginia is how many options there are when it comes to family travel. As cliché as it sounds, there really is something for everyone. Check out these great ideas for a nice mini vacation right here in Virginia!

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Smithfield Station Inn offers an exact replica of the Hooper Straight Light and is equipped with two luxurious suites. You can rent a single suite or rent the entire lighthouse and enjoy breathtaking river views complete with all the amenities of a home. Sitting outside and watching the sunset on the East Coast is a perfect way to relax on your weekend getaway.

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Having a generator is a great way in which to put your mind at ease. Even when the power goes out for a substantial amount of time, a good whole-house generator will be able to keep your home up and running until the utility straightens the problem out. Of course, the only way in which you can truly rely on your generator to be there for you when you need it most is to keep it in exceptional working condition. This is something that the pros here on our staff are happy to help you out with. Be sure to schedule your routine generator maintenance in Needham Heights, MA with one of our fine technicians.

You may think that your generator, because it is not up and running every day like your HVAC system is, does not require much in the way of maintenance services. This could not be further from the truth. Your generator should be inspected on an annual basis to ensure that it is functioning properly, and that all of its components are in great shape. Even if this is the case, though, there are a couple of items that must be addressed. Your generator will need a new air filter, and an oil change.

Your generator lives outdoors, and that provides ample opportunity for pollutants to build up in the system, even when it is not used very regularly. By cleaning out your air box and locking a new air filter securely into place, we’ll ensure that your generator’s condition and operation won’t be impeded by a clogged filter or pollutants within the system.

We will also run your generator for a few minutes in order to get everything warmed up, and then drain and completely replace the oil in the system. We’ll also check the oil filter for you. Once these basic maintenance services are complete, along with the other, more complex electrical checks and inspection points, you’ll be able to rest assured in knowing that your generator is ready for action.

Hot tub wiring and circuits are a big request this time of year.  Summer specials such as those going on at the Iowa State Fair dramatically increase sales.  With many hot tub brands to choose from such as Hot Springs Spas, Maax Spas, California Cooperage, Jacuzzi, Caldera Spas, and Thermo Spas the choices are numerous.  Hot tub installers typically do not wire your hot tub unless there is a specific and properly wired disconnect in place.  The hot tub circuit with disconnect must be installed by a licensed electrician.  The hot tub or pool disconnect has certain requirements pertaining to the type and distance required from your pool or hot tub.  In addition to this the circuit must be the required ampacity and voltage intended for your hot tub in order to insure the safe and reliable operation for you and your family.  Never trust someone that is not an electrician trained in proper hot tub wiring.  

Installing the proper hot tub wiring is not a project for that handy family member or the guy down the street.  Hot tub wiring must be done properly and to state and local building codes.  In addition the wiring must be done to strict National Electrical Codes.  All of our electricians that are trained in hot tub wiring follow the code to ensure you and your family are as safe as possible.

Just like hot tub wiring, pool wiring must only be done by a trained and trusted professional.  Pool wiring has strict guidelines set in place for your safety.  Bonding, grounding, and GFCI protection are all major concerns when installing wiring for your pool.  Pool wiring is not a do it yourself project and should only be done by a licensed electrician.  We work with several of Des Moines top pool installers to insure your next pool project is done to the highest of standards.  The code is in place and should be followed closely with no exceptions.