Real Canadian Electric Blog

Home Safety Checklist - Calgary Electrical Maintenance in Prep for the Colder Months

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, it’s a clear sign that fall is upon us. With the kids back in school and the days getting shorter, it’s the perfect time to ensure your home’s electrical system is ready for the colder months ahead. Here are some essential electrical maintenance tasks to keep your home safe and secure this fall.

With the heating season approaching, it’s crucial to ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order and not expired - the useful life for most is 7-10 years. Test each unit and replace batteries if needed. Consider calling us to upgrade your system to hardwired smoke and CO detectors for the added safety of constant power and networked alerting.

Check Your Heating System

Before the cold weather sets in, have your heating system inspected by a professional. This includes checking the furnace, heat pump, or boiler. Ensure all electrical connections are secure and components are clean.  If you are planning to use any electrical space heaters, please call us first so that we can inspect your system to avoid dangerous overloads.

Secure Outdoor Lighting and Plugs

As the days get shorter, outdoor lighting becomes more important. Check all exterior lights and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Ensure your outdoor plugs are GFCI outlets to protect against electrical shocks. Adding covers to your outdoor outlets can prevent moisture damage from rain and snow.  Also, be sure to check the outlet and extension cord you use to plug in your car warmer and block heater. 

Inspect Electrical Panels and Circuit Breakers

Fall is a good time to inspect your electrical panel and circuit breakers. Look for any signs of wear or damage, such as rust or corrosion. If you notice frequent tripping of breakers, it may indicate an overloaded circuit. Call us to address any issues.

Prepare for Holiday Decorations

With the holiday season around the corner, many of us will be putting up lights and decorations. Ensure your home’s electrical system can handle the extra load. Only use extension cords rated for outdoor use and avoid overloading circuits. Consider using LED lights, which are more energy-efficient and generate less heat.

Consider Surge Protection

Fall storms can bring power surges that may damage your appliances and electronics. Installing a whole-home surge protector can safeguard your devices from these unexpected spikes in voltage. It’s a small investment that can save you from potentially costly repairs in the future.

By taking these steps, you can ensure your home is ready for the fall and winter seasons. Regular electrical maintenance not only keeps your home safe but also improves efficiency and can save you money in the long run. If you, your friends or your neighbors need assistance with any of these tasks, don’t hesitate to contact us. 

Stay warm and safe this fall!

Now is the perfect time to embrace the power of solar energy in Alberta, a province known for its vast landscapes and abundant sunlight. Let's dive into the incredible potential of solar energy and how it can revolutionize the way we power our homes.

With over 300 days of blue sky each year, Alberta is an ideal location for harnessing the sun's power. Thanks to advancements in solar technology and decreasing costs of solar panels, making the switch to clean and renewable energy has never been more accessible.

Not only does investing in solar energy benefit the planet, but it also benefits your wallet. The Alberta government offers various financial incentives and rebates to encourage the adoption of renewable energy. These incentives, combined with long-term savings on electricity bills, make solar power an economically viable and sustainable choice for homeowners and businesses alike.

We can help.  Get in touch with us if you would like to explore the potential for solar energy for your home or business.

During a recent project, we had a chat with a customer who decided to hire a handyman to install new plugs and switches in their home at a rate of $50 an hour. Seems like a decent deal, right?

Curious about the total cost, I inquired how much the whole job set her back. She mentioned it was around $2000 and it took approximately two days to complete.

Upon inspection, we discovered some errors in the handyman's work. They had left the customer in the dark with malfunctioning lights and several outlets were not functioning properly.

Interestingly, we would have charged a similar price for the initial work, provided a five-year guarantee, and finished it all in just one day. This would have eliminated the need to bring in another professional to fix the issues we uncovered.

Experience truly shines when it comes to home improvement projects! If you're looking for a seasoned professional who gets the job done right the first time, don't hesitate to give us a call.

When it comes to electrical services in your home or business, safety and quality are paramount. Therefore, hiring a professional electrician is a critical decision.

Here are some key factors to consider:

1. Insurance and Licensing: Is your electrician insured and licensed? This is crucial as it protects you if anything goes wrong during the electrical work. A licensed electrician adheres to safety regulations, ensuring that all work is up to code.

2. Qualifications and Experience: What qualifications does the electrician have? There are different levels of qualifications an electrician may have, from a journeyman electrician to a master electrician. It’s also important to consider their experience. An experienced electrician will have a broad knowledge base to handle various electrical issues.

3. Warranty: Does the electrician offer a warranty? A warranty not only protects your bank account if anything goes wrong after the job is completed but also shows the electrician’s confidence in the quality of their work.

4. Communication: How does the electrician communicate with you? A good electrician will provide different options for your electrical needs, listen to your concerns, and show genuine care for you and your family. They should be able to explain complex electrical issues in simple terms.

5. Customer Reviews: Do other customers recommend the electrician? Checking reviews is a helpful way to gauge the electrician’s reputation. Look for an electrician with positive reviews and satisfied customers.

6. Up-to-Date with Code: Is the electrician up-to-date with the latest electrical codes? A professional electrician should be able to check the new code and pull permits for you, if needed. This ensures that all electrical work is compliant with local regulations.

Before you hire your next contractor, make sure you do your research and take your time to check out the answers to these questions. Remember, your safety and satisfaction are worth the extra effort.

In addition to these considerations, you might also want to think about the electrician’s availability. Do they offer 24-hour service? Can they respond to emergency situations? Also, consider the range of services they offer. Do they handle residential and commercial projects? Can they perform specific tasks like ceiling fan installation or surge protection?

Lastly, consider the cost. While it’s important to find an affordable electrician, remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Quality workmanship and safety should never be compromised for cost savings.

By considering these factors, you’ll be well on your way to finding a reliable, professional electrician who can meet your electrical needs safely and effectively.