Signs Your Appliances are Overloaded 

At Raceway Electric, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you steer clear of common electrical mistakes that can turn your appliances into expensive paperweights. Watch for these signs and if you notice them, take action. 

Ignoring Overloading Warnings 

We’ve all been there—plugging in too many devices into a single outlet using extension cords or power strips. It’s tempting, but it’s a recipe for disaster. Electrical outlets have a limit, and overloading them can cause overheating, leading to damage to both your appliances and your home’s electrical system. Invest in extra outlets or seek professional help from electrical companies to ensure you have enough power sources for your needs. Don’t be like Clark Griswold this holiday season and overload your outlets and extension cords! 

Skipping Surge Protectors 

Power surges are sneaky. They can happen due to lightning strikes, utility company issues, or even turning on high-powered devices like air conditioners or heat pumps. Plugging your expensive appliances directly into the wall leaves them vulnerable to these surges. That’s where surge protectors come to the rescue. These handy devices act as a shield, diverting excess voltage away from your electronics, saving them from certain doom. Remember to never plug space heaters into an external surge protector or power strip, have your trusted electrical company like Raceway install in-outlet surge protectors throughout your home.  

DIY Gone Wrong 

While a quick fix might seem easy enough from a YouTube tutorial, electrical work isn’t something to take lightly. Amateur mistakes like improper wiring, faulty connections, or incorrect installations can not only damage your appliances but pose serious safety hazards. Always leave electrical jobs to the pros from reputable electrical companies. It might save you a lot of hassle and money in the long run. 

Neglecting Maintenance 

Your appliances need some TLC too! Dust and debris can accumulate inside them, causing overheating and reduced efficiency. Regularly cleaning and inspecting your appliances can prevent potential electrical problems and prolong their lifespan. 

Using Incorrect Wattage 

Ever grabbed a bulb without checking its wattage rating? Mismatched wattage can lead to overheating, shortening the lifespan of your light fixtures or even causing electrical fires. Always use bulbs and appliances that match the recommended wattage outlined by the manufacturer. 

 Ignoring Warning Signs 

Appliances aren’t shy when they’re struggling. Buzzing sounds, flickering lights, or unusual smells are red flags. Don’t brush them off! These signs often indicate an underlying electrical issue that, if ignored, can lead to appliance failure or, worse, an electrical fire. 

 Improper Storage of Appliances 

Where you store your appliances matters. Keeping them in damp or excessively hot areas like the basement or near radiators can cause electrical components to corrode or overheat, damaging the appliances. Find a cool, dry spot with good ventilation to extend their lifespan. 

Remember, preventing these mistakes doesn’t just protect your appliances; it also keeps you and your family safe from potential electrical hazards. 

 Raceway Electric Has Your Back 

When it comes to electrical work, don’t hesitate to reach out to professional electrical companies like Raceway Electric. Our experienced technicians can conduct thorough inspections, offer advice on proper appliance usage, and ensure your electrical system is in top-notch condition. 

Taking care of your appliances isn’t just about convenience; it’s an investment in their longevity and your safety. So, keep these tips in mind, and you’ll save yourself from a world of appliance-related headaches! At Raceway Electric, we’ve got your back for all things electrical. 

Contact us for expert advice and services tailored to your needs. 

The post Avoid These Electrical Mistakes or Risk Destroying Your Appliances  appeared first on Raceway Electric, LLC.

Electrical Options to Consider for New Construction or Remodeling

It’s important to plan for both interior and exterior lighting and electrical outlets. We have some ideas for you to consider as you navigate the building or remodeling process.

Interior Electrical Options

Kitchen – What will your electrical needs be in the kitchen? You will need outlets for all your appliances including the refrigerator, stove, microwave, dishwasher, and garbage disposal. Your electrician will make sure these outlets are the proper AMP and volt circuits. A professional electrician will also ensure that appliances that share a circuit won’t overload. They may also determine that an appliance will need its own circuit, including your oven range and refrigerator.

You will also need enough outlets for your small appliances like a coffee pot, toaster, and air fryer for example. GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets placed throughout the kitchen under the cabinets are great for ensuring you have enough safe outlets where you need them.

Lighting options in the kitchen include ambient lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting. The type of lighting you decide to add to the kitchen can be functional and beautiful. Ambient lighting can include flush-mounted ceiling lights and recessed lighting. An example of task lighting includes track lights. Track lights are great if you need light directed in specific areas including over an island. Under the cabinet lighting is another type of task lighting that allows you to see better as you cook and prep on your countertops. Pendant lights are also considered accent lights. These are generally decorative and have a variety of shapes and sizes.

Bathroom – Lighting options in bathrooms must be rated for damp or wet conditions. Around the mirror, side lights are better because overhead lighting can cast shadows on your face. Wall sconces and vertical strip lights can help provide the right amount of illumination. Bathrooms will also need to include ventilation fans to help remove moisture from baths and showers. Outlets in the bathroom must be GFCI to avoid shocking hazards.

Bedrooms, Living Room, and Dining Room – wall light switches are required for all these spaces and there are codes about where those need to be placed. If possible, ask your electrician to add outlets in more areas so you have options when arranging the room.

Stairways, hallways, closets, and laundry rooms are important to place lighting in as well. The laundry room will require a separate circuit for the washer and dryer and all outlets must be GFCI protected.

Exterior Electrical Options

Don’t forget about the exterior of your home as you plan for electrical. You will want electrical options and lighting in these spaces as well for functionality and safety.

Garage – Most garages need a circuit for just that space. This will include lighting and garage doors. Extra outlets around work bench areas are also a good idea. Any outlets in the garage must also be GFCI protected.

Exterior lighting – You can increase your curb appeal and safety in your home with outdoor lighting. Lights above entryways, on patios, and on backdoors, are essential for safety. Exterior outlets on the home are good for holiday lighting, or yard tools and must be GFCI protected. Landscape lighting can help brighten your home and bring attention to your garden beds or walking paths.

Contact Raceway

Our certified, licensed, and insured electricians are ready to help you create the home of your dreams with the right lighting and electrical options to fit your lifestyle. Contact us for a consultation.

The post Electrical Options to Consider for New Construction or Remodeling appeared first on Raceway Electric, LLC.