Blog Posts

Hurricane Preparedness: Riding the Storm with a Plan

21Sep
by Pinellas County Electric  
0
Hey there, fellow storm-watchers and weather enthusiasts!
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Hurricanes? Aren’t they just nature’s way of throwing a massive, watery temper tantrum?” Well, yes and no. While I’m all for viewing the world with a sprinkle of humor and a dash of optimism, hurricanes are serious business. But fear not! With a little preparation, a touch of foresight, and yes, maybe a joke or two, we can face these storms head-on. Let’s dive in!

 

1. Know Thy Enemy (or at least Google it)

First things first, let’s get to know our uninvited guest. Hurricanes are like that distant cousin who crashes on your couch, eats all your snacks, and leaves a mess in their wake. But with a bit of research, you can predict when they’ll show up and what they’ll bring with them. Stay updated with weather forecasts, and maybe even get yourself a fancy weather app. Knowledge is power, and in this case, it’s also dry socks and a roof over your head.

 

2. Secure your Fortress

Your home is your castle, and every castle needs its defenses. Check your windows, doors, and roofs for any vulnerabilities. And while you’re at it, why not add some storm shutters? They’re like sunglasses for your house, only more protective and less glamorous. But hey, safety first!

 

3. Pack Like You’re Going on a Trip

Imagine you’re going on an impromptu vacation, only instead of sun and sand, you’re getting wind and rain. Pack essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, and important documents.

 

4. Prepare for Power Outages

Power outages are like the universe’s way of telling you to unplug. But while a digital detox might be refreshing, stumbling in the dark isn’t. Stock up on flashlights, batteries, and candles. And if you’re feeling fancy, get yourself a generator but plan ahead for an electrician to install it properly (yes, even portable generators need some TLC from your neighborhood electrical superheros!). Generators are like having your own personal power plant, only smaller and less explode-y.

 

5. Connect with your Tribe

Stay in touch with family and friends. Let them know your plans, and maybe even set up a safe meeting place. And while you’re at it, check in on your neighbors, especially if they’re elderly or have young kids. After all, it’s times like these that communities come together. And who knows, you might even make a new friend or two!

 

6. Water, Water Everywhere (but not a drop to drink)

While it might seem like there’s plenty of water during a hurricane, you’ll want to make sure you have a clean supply. Fill up bathtubs, sinks, and containers. And if you’re feeling extra prepared, invest in some water purification tablets. They’re like magic pills for water, turning questionable puddles into refreshing beverages.

 

7. Secure your Outdoor Belongings

That garden gnome you love? It might just take a trip to Oz if you’re not careful. Secure or bring inside anything that might become a projectile. And while we’re on the topic, maybe give that gnome a break and bring him inside too. He’s seen enough storms.

 

8. Keep Your Wheels Ready

If you have a car, make sure it’s fueled up and ready to go. Think of it as your trusty steed, waiting to whisk you away to safety. And if you don’t have a car, maybe buddy up with someone who does. Carpooling: it’s eco-friendly and hurricane-smart!

 

9. Stay Informed (Knowledge is power)

Keep a battery-powered or crank radio handy. It’s like your personal news anchor, letting you know what’s happening outside without you having to brave the storm. And if the radio’s not your thing, there are plenty of weather apps and websites to keep you in the loop.

 

10. It’s OK to Shelter

If things get too intense, consider heading to a local shelter. They’re like big sleepovers, only with less pillow fighting and more storm watching. Plus, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Prepare Your Home

    1. Secure Windows and Doors: Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood. Reinforce your garage doors.
    2. Inspect Your Roof: Ensure it’s in good condition and secure loose tiles or shingles.
    3. Clear Gutters and Downspouts: This helps prevent flooding and roof damage.
    4. Secure Outdoor Items: Tie down or bring inside any outdoor furniture, decorations, trash cans, and gardening tools.
    5. Check Your Insurance: Ensure your homeowner’s insurance covers flood damage and understand your policy.
    6. Document Your Property: Take photos or videos of your home’s interior and exterior, including your belongings, for insurance purposes.
    7. Plan Your Evacuation Route: Know where you’ll go if you need to evacuate and how you’ll get there.
    8. Protect Important Documents: Place essential documents like birth certificates, insurance policies, and property records in a waterproof container.
    9. Turn Off Utilities: If instructed by officials or if you evacuate, turn off utilities to prevent additional hazards.
    10. Stay Informed: Monitor local news and weather updates regularly.

 

Emergency Kit Essentials

    1. Water: At least one gallon per person per day for at least three days.
    2. Non-perishable Food: A three-day supply. Think canned goods, granola bars, and dried fruits.
    3. Manual Can Opener: Essential if your food kit includes canned goods.
    4. Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Radio: Consider one with NOAA Weather Radio channels.
    5. Flashlights: With extra batteries.
    6. First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, scissors, tweezers, and any necessary prescription medications.
    7. Multi-Tool or Swiss Army Knife: You never know when you might need to cut something or make minor repairs.
    8. Personal Hygiene Items: Such as wet wipes, hand sanitizer, feminine hygiene products, and a toothbrush.
    9. Important Documents: Copies of insurance policies, identification, bank account records, etc., stored in a waterproof container.
    10. Clothing: A change of clothes, sturdy shoes, and rain gear for each family member.
    11. Blankets or Sleeping Bags: In case you need to stay somewhere other than your home.
    12. Chargers: For your cell phone and other essential devices. Consider solar-powered or battery-operated chargers.
    13. Local Maps: To help you navigate if GPS services are down.
    14. Cash: ATMs and credit card machines might not be working.
    15. Special Needs Items: For babies (like formula, bottles, and diapers), elderly family members, or pets.
    16. Face Masks: To help filter contaminated air.
    17. Whistle: To signal for help if needed.
Remember, while humor can lighten the mood, preparation is no joke. Stay safe, stay informed, and always prioritize the well-being of yourself and your loved ones.

10 Shockingly Fun Facts About Electricians!

15Sep
by Pinellas County Electric  
0
Hey there, fellow light enthusiasts! Have you ever paused to think about the bright minds that keep our world illuminated? No, we’re not talking about the sun, but the electricians who are the true keepers of the light in our lives. Let’s dive into some electrifying facts about these unsung heroes, with a sprinkle of humor, of course!

 

1. The Medical Doctors of the Electrical World

Surprise, surprise! Becoming an electrician is almost as grueling as becoming a doctor. Yes, you read that right! These wizards of wiring undergo years of training to diagnose and resolve electrical issues, ensuring they don’t give us any “shocking” surprises.

 

2. A Colorful Career, Literally!

Did you know electricians need to pass a color blindness test? It seems their job is quite colorful, as recognizing and decoding wire colors is a vital part of their role. So, if you’ve got a knack for distinguishing between cerulean and turquoise, this might just be the career for you!

 

3. Masters of Many Trades

Electricians are not just one-trick ponies. Oh no, they are masters of many trades, specializing in various areas from indoor electrical installations to high-voltage industrial setups. It’s like having a superhero team, but for electrical issues!

 

4. Celebrity Electricians in Disguise

Hold onto your hats, because some of the world’s most famous celebrities were once electricians or trained to be one. From the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley, to the mastermind behind spine-chilling thrillers, Alfred Hitchcock, these celebs knew their way around a circuit board before hitting the big time!

 

5. Safety First, Always!

Electricians are the unsung heroes of safety, rigorously trained to adhere to all safety requirements and regulations. They are the guardians of our electrical realms, ensuring everything runs smoothly and safely.

 

6. Problem-Solving Pros

If you thought being an electrician was all about wires and circuits, think again! These pros are adept at problem-solving, capable of identifying and fixing defects in electrical systems with the precision of a detective solving a mystery.

 

7. Jacks of All Trades

Electricians are the true jacks of all trades, proficient in a wide array of functions from installation to repair and improvement of electrical wiring. They are the Swiss army knives in the world of electrical maintenance!

 

8. Skillful and Adaptable

Being an electrician is not for the faint-hearted. These brave souls venture into the most confined spaces, equipped with a diverse set of skills and tools, ready to tackle any electrical challenge that comes their way.

 

9. Dressed to Impress… and Protect!

Electricians don’t just dress to impress; they dress to protect! Adorned in specialized safety clothing and gear, they ensure their safety amidst live currents and potential hazards. Talk about being fashion-forward and safety-conscious!

 

10. A Bright Future Ahead

Fear not, for the future is bright, especially for electricians. With our ever-increasing reliance on electricity, the demand for these luminous professionals is set to skyrocket. So, here’s to a future filled with more bright sparks in the electrical field!

A DIYers Guide to Electric Panel Safety

22Aug
by Pinellas County Electric  
0

In the vast world of DIY, few areas require as much respect (and a touch of trepidation) as the realm of electricity. Whether you’re building the ultimate man-cave or simply ensuring your fortress is safe and sound, understanding your home’s electrical system is a must. So, grab a brew, lean back in that leather recliner, and let’s electrify your knowledge base.

THE COMMAND CENTER: YOUR ELECTRICAL PANEL

Think of your electric panel as the coach of your home’s electrical team. Nestled typically in the garage or the basement, this unsung hero ensures every play is executed smoothly, directing power from the grid into your home and distributing it to the key players—your appliances.

DEDICATED CIRCUITS: THE SUPERSTARS OF OUR ELECTRICAL LINEUP

Like the star quarterback who needs a clear lane to run, major appliances demand their very own circuit. Why? To prevent unscheduled power outages right when you’re about to score that virtual touchdown in your gaming den. Some MVPs that demand the VIP treatment:

  • Freezer (because where else will you chill your steaks?)
  • Electric range (for those nights when BBQing isn’t in the playbook)
  • Dishwasher (because washing by hand? That’s a rookie move.)
  • And other champions, from the indispensable washer to the luxurious hot tub.

3. AVOID THE OVERLOAD: THE ELECTRICAL FOUL YOU DON’T WANT

Crowding a circuit is like trying to fit your entire football team into a two-seater. It might be fun to imagine, but in reality, it’s a recipe for disaster. Overloaded circuits risk not just blackouts but potential electrical fires. Play it safe, spread out the load, and ensure each major player has its dedicated space.

4. SIZE MATTERS: PAIRING YOUR APPLIANCES WITH THE PERFECT CIRCUIT

Pairing the right appliance with its ideal circuit size is akin to matching your truck’s engine with the right fuel. It’s all about optimization:

  • 15 to 20-amp circuit: Suited for appliances like microwaves, ovens, and that beer-filled fridge.
  • 30 or more-amp circuit: Tailored for the heavy-hitters like water heaters and central air conditioners.

For a flawless game, always check the playbook—your appliance manual—to see what the manufacturer recommends.

5. MAINTENANCE: KEEPING YOUR ELECTRICAL DEFENSE STRONG

A good offense starts with a great defense. By getting regular check-ups from a licensed electrician, you ensure your home’s electrical system remains in its prime. A well-maintained panel is like a well-drilled team, performing efficiently, safely, and at its peak when you most need it.

So there you have it, with this knowledge, you can make informed decisions, whether you’re setting up that new home theater or adding a hot tub to your backyard. Cheers to becoming the MVP of your home’s electrical game!

Ready for the Upgrade Magic with Pinellas County Electric? ✨ We’ve got 18+ electrifying years under our belt and a nearly perfect success rate. Call now! (727)269-1982

Is It Worth Upgrading My Electric Panel?

07Aug
by Pinellas County Electric  
0

Hey there, electric enthusiasts! 🌟 So, did you know that the heart (or rather, the brain) of your home’s electrical system is the electrical panel? It’s like the wizard behind the curtain in the Land of Oz! 🎩✨ So, it may be worth it to consider the benefits of upgrading your electric panel if it’s old or acting up.

Now, word on the street is that for the best electric vibes, you should give that panel of yours a regular health check. And by health check, I mean having a hakuna matata electrician (preferably with a lion by their side) swing by to do maintenance, as well as check if it’s on a recall list.

Not only will this keep your house from trying out for the next fireworks show, but it also makes sure you can Netflix binge without a glitch.

Recalled electrical panels

  • Zinsco
  • Federal Pacific
  • Murray 1999 and older models
  • Challenger

Signs it’s Time to Upgrade

  • Age Matters: If your panel is pushing 30 (like some of us, am I right?), consider an upgrade. You wouldn’t use a phone from the 90s, would you? Well maintained panels could last 20-30 years!
  • Flicker, Flicker: Lights acting like they’re at a disco when the AC pops on? It’s not party time, it’s “check-my-panel” time.
  • Sparks & Eau de Burning: Sparks and strange aromas? Unless you’ve been secretly mastering perfume alchemy, it’s time to call an expert.
  • The Symphony of Buzzing: Odd noises? It might be your panel’s last hurrah.
  • Zap! Ouch! Feeling a little spark? It’s not love; it’s your panel telling you it’s time.

Benefits of Upgrading Your Electric Panel Game

  • Improved Safety: Outdated electrical panels are a mismatch for today’s modern homes. Old panels struggle under the weight of new-age electrical demands. They might get moody, overheat, and in some cases, throw a fire tantrum. Ushering in a new electrical system, you’re essentially giving your home an invincible shield against fires. Your home remains a haven of peace, sans fiery drama.
  • Increased Home Value: A home with an updated electrical panel is like catnip to potential buyers. Potential homeowners are always on the lookout for properties that are safe, up-to-date, and won’t have them dialing electricians every other week. Upgrading your panel is a sure-shot way to elevate your property’s value and desirability.
  • Enhanced Home’s Electrical Performance: Upgrading the panel isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns; it’s about optimizing performance. Imagine your home running like a well-oiled machine, where every switch, device, and appliance responds in perfect harmony.
  • Get More Outlets: In an era where almost everyone has multiple gadgets, the constant hunt for a charging spot is real. Plus, we’ve all seen that corner with the entangled mess of multi-plugs and wires—yikes! A new panel not only supports more outlets but ensures each one of them delivers consistent, reliable power. It’s like adding more parking spots in a busy area; suddenly, everything is so much more convenient!
  • Power for Hot Tub: Energize your luxury with an updated panel ensures you can run that hot tub, pool pump, or even an outdoor kitchen without constantly playing ‘Which appliance do I switch off today?’.
  • Extend the Lifespan of Your Electrical Equipment and Appliances: With a solid electrical foundation, your gadgets run longer, face fewer hiccups, and deliver optimum performance. It’s like providing them a sanctuary where they thrive and serve you better for longer.

Cons

  • Dollar Bills: Depending on your current electrical needs the complexity of the job, and the materials needed, upgrading your panel can range from $2,000 to $6,000, YIKES 😬!
  • A Bit of a Wait: Upgrading your electrical panel can take a half a day for a skilled technician to complete. If you’re looking for a serious, valuable service upgrade, it can take up an entire day, especially if you need to replace the meter and grounding system. Perfect excuse for a picnic or beach day, though!

Ready for the Upgrade Magic with Pinellas County Electric? ✨ We’ve got 18+ electrifying years under our belt and a nearly perfect success rate. Call now! (727)269-1982

12-Step Manual Generator Pre-Operation Checklist

26Jul
by Pinellas County Electric  
0
Alright, folks, let’s get down to the nuts and bolts of this generator rodeo. Today, we have a 12-step Manual Generator Pre-Operation Checklist. If you’re like me, you love a good list, preferably one with boxes to check and shareable and printable list.
    1. First off, turn off the main switch and flick on that 2-pole 50 amp switch. If you feel a sense of accomplishment already, well, that’s the spirit! We’ve got this!
    2. Before you venture any further, ensure there’s no power in the house. You don’t want to start a surprise indoor fireworks show, do you?
    3. Time to turn off all the big switches at the panel. If they were in a band, they’d be “The Switches with Attitude”.
    4. Now, put your best detective hat on and check the generator socket for zero power. If there’s power, take a detour and revisit step one. Remember, practice makes perfect!
    5. Having tackled the mysteries of power switches, you’re ready for a connection. Connect the generator cord to the generator plug. The sparks are already flying, aren’t they?
    6. Hold on to the other end of that cord and find its perfect match on the generator. This is not speed dating, folks, usually it’s the 50-amp guy!
    7. Switch off the generator’s switches, as we don’t want our hard work to blow up in our faces, right?
    8. Time for a quick oil check. If your generator were a person, it would probably say, “I can’t function properly without my morning oil!”
    9. Now, fill that generator up with some gas or, if you’re more into the green lifestyle, connect it to propane. Remember, respect your generator’s dietary preferences.
    10. It’s showtime, people! Start the generator, let it run and listen if it’s purring like a satisfied kitten or growling like a bear. Smooth is the way to go!
    11. The finale is upon us! Turn on the 50-amp switch on the generator to give power back to the panel. It’s like reuniting lost lovers. Isn’t it beautiful?
    12. Don’t forget to write down the time you filled up the gas and set a timer for a refill. You wouldn’t want your generator to go on a hunger strike, would you?
There you go! You’ve mastered the 12-step Manual Generator Pre-Op Checklist. Who knew you could become a generator whisperer, right? From all of us at Pinellas County Electric, remember to power on, and keep your generator’s belly full and its oil slick! Until next time, folks, stay lit!

Your Guide to Hiring the Best Electrician That Won’t Leave You In The Dark

22Jul
by Pinellas County Electric  
0

You’ve embarked on the electrifying journey to hire the right electrician. Now, don’t get shocked! We’ll make it as simple as possible.

  1. Google, Your Trusted Friend: You know, Google is a bit like that nerdy friend who always has answers, and yet, you hardly hang out with them (no offense, Google!). Start your adventure by running a quick search on the internet for local electricians. I promise it won’t be as boring as it sounds.
  2. Ratings and Reviews: This one sounds a bit fancy, doesn’t it? Once you have your list, don’t just call the first name you see. Like your favorite series, dive into the drama of reviews and ratings. Spoiler alert: if they have more one-star reviews than your last attempt at baking, you might want to reconsider.
  3. License: Now you wouldn’t let just anyone play with your hair, would you? The same goes for your electrical wires. Make sure that whoever you hire has the official license to thrill… I mean, drill! And by license, I mean an actual, state-issued electrician license.
  4. Insurance: Imagine inviting someone to your house and they accidentally knock over your precious vase, only for them to say, “Oops, my bad!” You’d wish they had some form of insurance, right? So always double-check if your prospective electrician has insurance. It’s like a comfy blanket on a cold night – just gives you that bit of assurance!
  5. Quotes, Not the Shakespearean Kind: I bet you love a good quote, especially on those motivational posters! But in this case, get at least three different cost estimates for the work to be done. Don’t be shy, we’re all a bit cheap sometimes. Remember: we’re looking for an electrician, not funding a space expedition to Mars!
  6. References: Ever been to a party where you only knew the host and had to make awkward small talk with strangers? Well, references are like the life-saver friends you wish you had at that party! They’re real people who can vouch for the electrician’s work. If possible, contact a few of them and make sure they weren’t left in the dark (literally and metaphorically!).
  7. The Gut Check: And finally, trust your instincts, your gut, your intuition, your sixth sense, or whatever you want to call it. If the electrician gives you that creepy, “I might turn your house into a disco” vibe, maybe it’s best to keep looking. Remember, the right electrician should not only know their stuff but should also make you feel as secure as a baby kangaroo in its mother’s pouch!
  8. Seal it with a Guarantee: What’s a hunt for a perfect electrician without a cherry on top of a guarantee? Before you sign any contract, ensure there’s a clause that covers the quality of workmanship for a specific period. If things go as wrong as a Christmas pudding in July, this guarantee will be your superhero cape! And if they’re hesitant to give a guarantee? Well, that’s as dodgy as a cat offering to buy a dog dinner. Time to look elsewhere, my friend.

Now, you’re not just ready but doubly armed with the right tools to hire the best electrician. And remember, my friend, with great power… comes great electrical safety! So, stay safe and always ask for that guarantee.

The Great Flickering Mystery: Solving the Case of the Untripped Breaker

28Jun
by Pinellas County Electric  
0

Question: Why is my power going on and off without tripping breaker?

Answer: Hey there, bright sparks! Is your home playing its best impression of a haunted house with the lights flickering on and off? Do you find yourself asking, “Why is my power flickering and acting like a temperamental artist, yet the breaker is as silent as a mime?” That, my friends, is an electrical riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma. So, let’s put on our detective hats and figure out why!

Here’s what’s possibly going on with your flickering power without tripping the breaker.

  1. Power Surge: Your appliances and your electrical system are in an electrifying relationship. When things get too intense (like a power surge), your electrical system might need a time-out.
  2. Loose Electrical Connections: These party crashers can lead to flickering lights without your breaker saying a word. They create a high resistance path for electricity, resulting in an elaborate game of hide-and-seek with your power.
  3. Overload: If there’s too much demand on a circuit, and the load is not evenly distributed (because who doesn’t love a challenge?), your electrical system might be screaming for a break.

Now, as much as we love a good mystery, it’s time to demystify this whole ordeal. Let’s go through some action steps:

  1. Play Detective: If you see regular flickering or power loss, it’s time to get your Sherlock on!
  2. Audit Your Appliances: Check if your appliances are evenly distributed across the circuits. Overloading a single circuit is a surefire way to upset your electrical panel and system.
  3. Call the Professionals: If your investigation hits a wall, bring in the big guns – professional electrical contractors (like yours truly!).
  4. Get a Diagnosis: Let the professional electricians identify the cause of your flickering power. Trust us; we’ve seen it all!
  5. Fix What’s Broken: Based on the electricians’ findings, rebalance your circuits, tighten any loose connections, or address any other issues uncovered.
  6. Prevent Future Issues: Keep your appliances evenly distributed on your circuits and be mindful of your power usage. Prevention is always better than cure, right?

And there you have it, folks! We’ve not only solved the mystery of the flickering power but also served you a step-by-step guide to fixing it. Never fear, your trusty electrical team is always here to turn your power problems into a happily-ever-after.

Until our next adventure, keep those lights steady, those smiles bright, and remember – a flickering light is just a light that can’t make up its mind.

That’s all, power people! Until next time.

Pinellas County Electric

The Shocking Truth: Why You Should Let an Electrician Install Your Portable Generator!

04Apr
by Pinellas County Electric  
0

Ever thought about installing a portable generator yourself? I mean, how hard could it be, right? You buy the generator, you read the manual (or you don’t), you plug it in, and voila! Electricity during a power outage. It’s as simple as assembling an IKEA bookshelf, but without the cryptic instructions and leftover screws!

Well, not quite.

In reality, installing a generator is a bit more complicated (and hazardous) than putting together a BILLY bookcase. It’s not a ‘plug-and-play’ scenario and it’s definitely not for the faint-hearted. In fact, without the right knowledge and tools, it can be as dangerous as trying to tame a squirrel on a sugar high with your bare hands. Seriously, don’t try either at home.

Here’s the real deal: when it comes to generator installation, it’s best to call in the pros – the electricians. I know, I know. It might sound like a ploy to get you to spend more money, but trust me, the benefits are electrifying.

FOR A LIMITED TIME SAVE $300 FOR TOP-NOTCH PORTABLE GENERATOR INSTALLATION!

ONLY $699

CALL NOW 727.269.1982

  1. Firstly, let’s talk about safety. Electricians are like the superheroes of the power world. They’ve got the training, the skills, and the shockingly snazzy tool belts. They know how to handle electricity, preventing dangerous situations like backfeeding – which, by the way, is not a new trend in feeding pets, but a hazardous condition that can harm utility workers and damage equipment. Remember, while electricity can toast your bread, it can also toast you if not handled correctly!
  2. Next, we have the codes and regulations. Now, unless you’re an aficionado of legal jargon and local ordinances (who isn’t, am I right?), this can be a tough nut to crack. These rules aren’t there to spoil your fun; they’re there to keep you safe. An electrician knows these codes like the back of their hand. They’ll ensure your installation is up to code, so you don’t find yourself in a shocking situation with the law.
  3. Then there’s the matter of sizing and installation. Not all generators are created equal. Some are the heavyweights of the generator world, while others are more like the featherweights. An electrician can play matchmaker, pairing your home with the generator of its dreams. Plus, they’ll install it correctly, ensuring all the components, like transfer switches, are playing nice together.
  4. Don’t forget about longevity and maintenance. A generator installed by a pro is like a well-trained pet. It behaves well, lasts longer, and needs fewer vet – I mean, maintenance visits. Also, your friendly neighborhood electrician can provide advice for regular upkeep. Trust me, it’s better to have a generator that purrs rather than one that bites.
  5. What about convenience and time-saving? DIY projects can be fun. I mean, who doesn’t love a weekend filled with frustration, unexpected trips to the hardware store, and deciphering manuals written in what seems like ancient hieroglyphics? But wouldn’t you rather spend that time doing something you love? Let the pros handle the installation while you kick back and enjoy your free time.
  6. Lastly, there are those pesky warranty concerns. Some manufacturers are sticklers about their warranty terms. They want proof that a professional installed their product. And who can blame them? An electrician can provide the necessary documentation, so you don’t end up with a voided warranty.

So there you have it, folks. Six solid reasons why you should let an electrician install your portable generator. It’s…safe, compliant, efficient, and it saves you from a potential brain-frazzling, hair-raising DIY project.

So, next time you’re thinking about adding a portable generator to your home, remember this: electricity is a fantastic servant but a terrible master. Don’t be a DIY daredevil. Leave it to the superheroes of the power world – the electricians. Your safety, sanity, and Saturday afternoons will thank you!

Stay safe, stay powered, and remember – when in doubt, call in the pros!

How to Lower Your Electric Bill in Summer

30Apr
by Kevin Byrne  
0

As the summer season approaches, you start to feel the heat once again. While it can be refreshing to have some sun after the cold months, some days can be particularly hot, causing you to blast your air conditioner on full power. As a homeowner, you can probably attest to the struggles of staying cool and fresh without blowing up your energy bills. With your AC on for almost the whole day every summer day, it can be hard to avoid.

Ultimately, the question boils down to how to lower electric bill in summer. The AC may seem like your only option to get some relief from those hot days, but there are also other less expensive ways to cool down. You can still enjoy the season by avoiding the discomfort from the scorching heat without necessarily breaking the bank.

Check out these tips, tricks, and hacks to beat the beat while also lowering your bill this summer:

Tips on How to Lower Electric Bill in Summer

1.     Clean Your Air Conditioner

When you think about ways to lower your electric bill in summer, one of the first places to start will be your AC. With the system running more frequently, you want to make sure you are maximizing its efficiency. You can do this by cleaning your unit and all its parts and replacing dirty air filters, which can altogether reduce energy consumption by about 5-15%. Similarly, doing regular maintenance can prolong your AC’s life, so you do not have to replace it early on.

2.     Program Your Thermostat

Adjusting your thermostat is one of the best ways to increase energy efficiency at home. You can program it to prevent using electricity when no one is around so that you can avoid unwanted increases in your utility bills. With programmable thermostats available these days, you no longer have to adjust the device manually at all times.

3.     Block the Sun

Summer is the perfect time to make use of your window coverings to block the sunlight. The hotter it is outside, the more your AC will have to work to cool your home. Thus, minimizing the amount of heat entering can help prevent using too much electricity. You might not realize it, but good-quality coverings can lower heat gain by up to 77%, making them a great option to solve the concern of lowering your electric bill.

4.     Invest in ENERGY STAR appliances

While shopping for appliances, you may notice that some are ENERGY STAR certified. The US Environmental Protection Agency grants this label to appliances that meet certain standards to help reduce emissions, making them more energy-efficient than your traditional options. While investing in an ENERGY STAR appliance like an air conditioner may initially seem costly, you end up spending less in the long run since you can cut energy use by anywhere between 10-50%.

5.     Unplug Your Devices

Similar to the benefits from programming your thermostat, unplugging devices when not in use can help you cut down on energy costs. Since it can be hard to monitor all your devices at all times, you can install smart power strips, which can boost energy efficiency by cutting off power on devices that are on standby mode. This way, you can avoid consuming electricity, even if your devices are not in use.

6.     Use Windows at Night

It is not ideal to open your windows while the sun is still up since it can quickly turn your home into a burning furnace. However, at night, when the sun has set you can take advantage of the cool breeze with open windows. Doing this can also let cool air in and hot air out, so you do not have to use electricity all day.

Schedule Electrical Maintenance Today

Switching to energy efficient appliances and reducing your AC use can keep your electric bills down, even during the hotter days of the summer season.

As a professional electrician in Pinellas and Tarpon Springs, Pinellas County Electric offers a range of electrical repairs and maintenance services to solve your electrical problems. Call us today at 727-269-1982 to schedule a free consultation!

Electrical Service Panel Facts for Homeowners

20Apr
by Kevin Byrne  
0

Being a homeowner is like riding a rollercoaster. Fun, a bit of a challenge, and there’s always something new around the corner. One such twist? Getting to know your electrical service panel – the unsung hero that sends power zipping around your cozy abode.

Think of the electrical panel as the maestro of your home’s symphony. It’s the genius that connects the electrical vibes from the outside world to the groovy music in your home, or in other words it manages the electricity from the electric company and distributes it throughout your home. So, it’s super important to get to know your panel, and when you do you’ll  be one step closer to becoming a home-electricity wizard.

Finding That Elusive Panel

Now, your electrical panel is a bit of a shy type. It usually hides in spots like the garage, basement, utility closet, or even in the sneaky kitchen pantry. Those with vintage homes? Peek outside. It might just be chilling on an exterior wall.

A Peek Inside the Panel

Pop open that panel door and voila!

  • Main Circuit Breaker: It’s like the head honcho of the gang. Shut it off, and your home goes into power nap mode.
  • Circuit Breakers: Your panel’s little soldiers. They come as single-pole for 120 volts and double-pole for 240 volts – ideal for those appliances that like a bit more juice, like your trusty air conditioner.
  • Sub-panel: A fancy add-on if you’ve got a generator or extra breaker space.

Panels come with style and size. Ranging from 100 amps to a whopping 400 amps, the modern home usually rocks at least a 200 amp because, well, who lives without a heater or AC?

Panel Types 101

  • Main Breaker Panel: Your everyday, standard panel. It’s all about controlling and distributing power. This is the most commonly used panel type, which controls electricity that flows into each of the areas in your home. It is designed to distribute a certain amperage to each circuit and cut power when needed to prevent overheating.
  • Fuse Boxes: These bad boys use fuses to keep everything in check. When excess current flows through a particular circuit, the fuse shorts out, so you have to make sure they allow enough current to flow to your appliances and keep an eye on ’em!
  • Main Lug Panels: These panels have lugs that the line wires can run into, so they do not have a main breaker. You can connect the main lug to your main breaker to act as a sub-panel, with the latter being a separate disconnect.
  • Transfer Switches: Got a generator? These switches will transfer power from the generator to the electrical power in the main panel to supply power even during outages.

Getting regular check-ups, at least once a year will ensure safety and give it a long life of 20-30 years! Give Pinellas County Electric a buzz at 727-269-1982 to ensure all’s smooth and zappy.

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  • Phone: (727) 269-1982
  • Email: info@pinellascountyelectric.com
  • Address: North Pinellas County Electricians
    1441 Savannah Ave Unit B
    Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
  • Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
    Saturday by appointment
  • Phone: (727) 269-1982
  • Email: info@pinellascountyelectric.com
  • Address: South Pinellas County Electricians
    27837 US Highway 19 N
    Clearwater, FL 33761
  • Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
    Saturday by appointment
©2023 Pinellas County Electric.
All Rights Reserved