by Dan Namerow | Nov 30, 2018 | Uncategorized
Generators are the reason you can keep your home warm and cozy in the winter, even if you lose power in a snowstorm. But, there are safety precautions you need take when handling them. At Farryn Electric, we care about your safety as much as taking care of your electrical needs, so we’ve come up with three safety tips for you to keep in mind when using your generator this winter.
Location, Location, Location
Where you place your generator is extremely important. To keep you and your home safe, choose a location that permits proper exhaust ventilation and is a solid 20 feet away from vents, windows and doors. A big generator no-no? Using a generator in an attached garage. Even if you keep the garage door open, using a generator in this location is a big safety hazard.
Installing Carbon Monoxide Detectors is Crucial
In the case of improper generator operation or function—heaven forbid—carbon monoxide may leak out and into your home, creating a dangerous situation. While the odds of this happening are slim, it’s best to be prepared. If your home is not already equipped with carbon monoxide detectors, and you know you’re going to be using a generator this winter, it’s important that you get one installed right away.
Don’t Forget to Handle Fuel Safely if You have a Portable Generator
Just as you need to take safety precautions with your generator, it’s important to also be safe when handling its fuel. For example, before you refuel your generator, always remember to first turn it off and let it completely cool down. If you need to store the fuel, make sure that it’s in a container specifically for storing fuel and be sure to label it properly. Once you’ve done that, the fuel should be stored outside of your living areas.
Whether you’re interested in having a generator installed, need to have yours repaired or would like to ensure your current one is well maintained, Farryn Electric can help! Contact us today for all of your generator needs.
by Dan Namerow | Aug 7, 2018 | Electrical Panel, Electrical Safety, Residential Electrician
Power surges can wreak havoc on your expensive electronics and appliances. A whole-house surge protector can save you both time and money in the long-run. This will safeguard your entire electrical system. At Farryn Electric we are here to help our customers!
What causes a power surge?
People tend to think a power surge is caused by something outside, like when lightning strikes or when a power line goes down. While external influences like lightning aren’t the most common cause of power surges, they can certainly cause the most destruction because it involves the entirety of your home. Believe it or not, power surges usually occur right inside the home.
One of the most common causes of a power surge is overloaded outlets or circuits. Plugging in too many appliances or electronics in the same socket can lead to power surges and electrical fires.
Damage or exposed wiring is also a common cause of power surges. This can cause power surges when electrical wiring is damaged because the electricity that is flowing through the wiring is not being directed as it normally would.
Lastly, high power electrical devices like refrigerators and air conditioners can cause energy spikes and power surges. This happens because these appliances tend to draw an abnormally large amount of electricity.
Whole-house surge protection
80 percent of surges are generated internally. Most of these surges are very short and come from your homes appliances, but over time these surges can degrade the performance of your appliances. Having a whole-house surge protector can protect your home for years. This device is wired to your electric box and is typically placed in a more convenient location to be easily accessible.
Protective devices aren’t required by building codes or homeowner’s insurance carriers. However, it is recommended by the National Fire Protection Association and the Institute for Business and Home Safety. The good news is that protection is readily available, and affordable! Feel free to give us a call at (484) 316-0449.
by Dan Namerow | Jul 25, 2018 | Electrical Panel, Electrical Safety
Over the past few weeks, Farryn Electric has replaced four AC breaker panels due to the excessive heat! Home outdoor AC units are working overtime; attempting to make sure your home stays cool. Ultimately, the hot summer days can cause an enormous amount of electrical current to flow through your breaker. Your breaker box distributes electrical power to different circuits.
What is arcing?
If your breaker is dated or not maintained properly, “arcing” will occur. It becomes so hot within the breaker, that this can actually lead to your panel melting! Arcing is an electric current that is brief, strong and highly luminous. An arc is the luminous current discharge which is produced when strong current leaps across the gap between electrodes or within a circuit.
What can you do to prevent this?
Simply open the door to your panel and run the back of your hand down the face of the breakers. If the breakers are slightly hot to the touch, it is normal. However, if the breakers are excessively hot there may be a potential danger.
What to do if your breaker gets too hot?
You may also notice a “fishy”/burned plastic smell and odds are your breaker needs to be repaired. If this is the case, immediately turn the breaker off and call us at Farryn Electric for a diagnostic, we will be happy to help!
How we can help!
If you don’t feel comfortable performing the check, making a quick call to Farryn Electric is the safest bet. Trust the experts!
How can this be avoided?
If you want to lessen the chances of this or any other electrical hazard in your home; Farryn Electric Offers Comprehensive Safety Checks. Call Farryn Electric today for details.
