If you’re upgrading your home’s electrical system or about to start a remodeling project, then it’s important to be aware of electrical code compliance requirements. Electrical codes are specifically designed to set a safety standard that minimizes the chances of injuries and property damage due to electrical shock, faults, or fires. In other words: While complying with electrical codes might seem like a hassle, it’s an investment in your and your family’s safety.

Of course, due to increased household power consumption and technological advancements, homes today have to meet a different set of requirements than homes that were built 20, 30, or 40 years ago. And although you won’t be required to upgrade your home’s old wiring just because it’s old, it’s a good idea to do it because it’s much, much safer. 

• Replace all smoke detectors in your home every 10 years is a way to ensure the detectors are up to date with technology and any new safety requirements and standards in place. 
• Read and store manuals for the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to understand how they work, warning signs that batteries require replacements, and what to do if the detector begins to malfunction.
• Hire a professional to inspect all of the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home if you are unsure of whether they are working properly and want to verify all of the features are up to today’s standards.
• Every 5 to 7 years it is advisable to replace carbon monoxide detectors in the home to avoid malfunctions while eliminating the risk of the detectors not working if there is a carbon monoxide gas leak.
• When purchasing and installing a new carbon monoxide detector, look for an option that features an “end of life” sensor–giving you a warning ahead of time when you are in need of a replacement or inspection. 
• Whenever possible, use lithium ion batteries for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors as lithium ion batteries have a longer lifespan than traditional batteries that are often used.
• Install a carbon monoxide detector that includes an electrochemical sensor, giving you and your family peace of mind while avoiding carbon monoxide leaks and poisoning. 
• Ensure that any alarm you choose to purchase, install, or already have in your home is either CSA or UL listed for the most protection possible. 
• Another option when installing detectors throughout your home is to have them hard-wired with various types of battery back-ups available. Having a battery back-up in place is a way to gain peace of mind while reducing the risk of a dangerous house fire that spreads quickly.

Call Ryan Gath Electric today for answers to all your electrical questions!

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By Ryan Gath Electric

A standby automatic backup generator is a great safety addition to any homeowner’s current abode. It ensures your home is protected immediately in case any power outages occur that take your house off the grid. It is also an amazing alternative to the convention portable generator by eliminating all the hassle involved with setting up a portable generator when the power goes off.

As eager as you may be to set up your new automatic generator right now, we can stress enough that the installation process is better left to a contracted professional. Specific codes must be met, and safety precautions taken, to guarantee that the generator works efficiently and reliably. Although you may not be able to set up the entire generator without the help of a professional, there are some preliminary measures you can take before your contracted plumber/electrician arrives to help him/her out! Here are a few steps you can take to prepare your generator for installation, as well as what happens once the contractor arrives:

Figure Out Where the Generator Will Go

It is very easy to decide exactly where the generator should be set up. It will always be outside, due to carbon monoxide output. You’ll also want it as close to your main inlet/fuse box as possible. Ideally it will be in an area where a natural-gas line and a line-voltage cable can reach the gas and fuse box inside your house without too much threading and headache. Once you find a good spot with the easiest access to both places from the outside of your house, you’ll want to set up the generator around 5 feet away from any doors and windows. This is to prevent any risk of damage to the unit or water pooling in or around the unit. Once that sweet pot has been discovered, it’s time to begin preparing the land. 

Tending to the Land

You are going to want to ensure that you have a pre-cast concrete pad and enough gravel to make a compacted bed. If you have both of these items, create the compacted gravel bad and set the pre-cast concrete pad on top of it so the bed is supporting the pad.

By doing this you’re keeping the generator out of the dirt and off the ground. In the event of any rainfall or bad conditions, the generator will be completely safe from any ground corrosion or rust exposure. Maintenance and preservation is key when owning your own automatic generator, and that all starts with the environment and specific placement of the generator itself.

Securing the Generator

Using four stainless-steel bolts, you’ll now want to fasten the generator to the concrete pad. This will ensure that even with decently strong storm-level winds, your generator will not be moving anytime soon. A loose or unfastened generator can mean serious generator issues down the line. Especially in severe weather conditions, high velocity winds will either make the generator rattle and shake, possible making internal parts within the generator shake loose. If these winds are strong enough, you may even be out of a generator altogether when it gets swept away with various other debris. Ensuring the generator is fastened securely will protect it from the elements in the long run. 

Call Your Trusted Plumber

The DIY crowd emits a collective groan. We understand, you’ve bought your beautiful new automatic generator and you just want to set it up without having to rely on anyone else. Unless you can safely and securely connect a natural-gas line from your house to your generator, though, then this call is necessary. Most of the time your contractor will be able to knock this out of the way fairly quickly, as well as the next task on the list.

As we stated in the beginning of this article, everything before this step is a way for you to minimize the hourly that your contractor may charge by prepping as much as you can before the professionals arrive. Your safety and your generator’s efficiency are the top priorities in this situation though, and unless you can connect a natural-gas line confidently then a professional must be called. 

Call Your Trusted Electrician

You are also going to need a line-voltage cable ran from your house to your generator. This is, like the last task, something better left to the professionals in order to ensure your safety. If you can confidently state that you are able to run a line-voltage cable by yourself with no problems, then you may be able to get through this task with no such help, but the majority of homeowners most likely cannot claim this confidently. You’ll also most likely need a transfer switch inside beside your electrical meter, which your contractor can take care of too!

Many contractors will be able to cover the entire generator installation process, but these few tips will help your contractor focus on the nitty gritty of the installation, and also help you save some cash if there is an hourly rate involved. 

Call Ryan Gath Electric today for answers to all your electrical questions!

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Please check with lender for up-to-date terms, conditions and eligibility requirements. Information on this page is subject to change. Ryan Gath Electric is not responsible for the terms and conditions of third party lenders, or the accuracy of this page. backup generator installation backup generator installation backup generator installation

By Ryan Gath Electric

Every 15 seconds in the United States, a home is broken into. It’s a scary figure to consider no matter how well protected or gated your neighborhood is. Burglars and thieves seem to always find a way, except when certain precautions are taken. While home security systems are certainly helpful in letting you know someone is trying to break in there are ways to prevent the attempt. Houses that take certain precautions make themselves a house that seems to risky to prowlers, encouraging them to pass on by. Lighting is one major way this can be accomplished. A burglar doing his homework is going to look for the easiest, most vulnerable home. A well lit home is not one a burglar typically wants to tangle with. With that in mind, let’s take a look at five types of outdoor safety lighting that will help prevent a break-in.

1. Motion Sensor Outdoor Lighting

Motion sensor lighting is one of the best break-in deterrents you can get for your money. If anything approaches your home and sets off the sensor, the lights will come on. This is particularly effective due to the startling nature of having lights suddenly turn on. Even if a burglar knows it was motion detection, they are still likely to take off running in fear that the lights have captured someone’s attention who might have seen them. These work best mounted close to the house as you don’t want every car that passes by to set them off. A person will have to come closer to the home where they shouldn’t be to make the lights come on, making this one of the most effective safety lighting break-in deterrents.

2. Flood Lighting

Flood lighting is another type of light that is extremely effective against home break-ins. Flood lights stay on constantly at night making your home very visible in the dark. Thieves prefer the easiest home they can find and they do not want to do their work in a flood light where everyone can see them. There are also great aesthetic benefits to flood lighting. Up lighting is done to accentuate trees and shrubbery by pointing the floodlights up at the tree from the ground, illuminating them to the point that everyone passing by can see them from the road. You may be investing a lot of hard earned money into your landscaping so why only show off a beautiful yard during the day? Down lighting creates a similar effect by mounting the flood lights high and illuminating the landscaping below. By using floodlights in both of these ways you can keep a beautifully manicured yard visible at night as well as deter burglars who would seek to break into your home. 

3. Outdoor Hanging Lights

These are great for front porches and doorways. They illuminate the doors making it way less likely that a thief will stand under a light and try to break in the door. It also protects you as you enter and leave the home at night. They can be especially helpful when you are fumbling for the right key and trying to see the keyhole. Not only do they add an element of safety, but they illuminate the architecture of your home adding to the curb appeal and raising property values.

4. Pathway/Driveway Lighting

Breaking into a home can happen in many different ways. People have been known to be grabbed walking up to a dark house or driveway. An easy fix for this is pathway and driveway lighting. Decorative lights can be used to line your driveway and the front walkway all the way up to your house. This makes muggers and thieves a lot less likely to take you by surprise in a well lit walkway. You can exit your car in the driveway with peace of mind knowing that you are well lit. Another safety benefit is that you won’t be caught off guard by anything sitting in the driveway or lying on your front lawn. Have kids? Then you have probably had a bicycle or two left in your driveway or toys on the front lawn. Driveway and pathway lighting keep these areas well lit so that you do not accidentally run over a bike or trip over a toy and hurt yourself. They also look beautiful from the road.

5. Post Lanterns and Torches

This type of decorative outdoor lighting is typically found around backyard decks and pools. They look great, add a romantic feel to the area and illuminate the parts of the yard you want to see. This also has a great safety benefit as burglars have been known to enter houses from the back yard to avoid detection.

Outdoor safety lighting is an investment in your home that beautifies it, adds curb appeal, raises property values and keep you and your family safe. A safe family is something you just can’t put a price on.

Call Ryan Gath Electric today for answers to all your electrical questions!

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Please check with lender for up-to-date terms, conditions and eligibility requirements. Information on this page is subject to change. Ryan Gath Electric is not responsible for the terms and conditions of third party lenders, or the accuracy of this page. gfci in lowell gfci in lowell

By Ryan Gath Electric

The right ceiling fan can do a lot for you and your home. Equal parts form and function, a good ceiling fan can provide a nice, relaxing breeze while also tying the room together aesthetically. But, like any home improvement project, there are more than a few things to consider before you pull the trigger on a new fan. To make sure that your fan is the right one for you, be sure to consult with your Ryan Gath Electric representative.

Size:

Before you make any final decisions about any ceiling fans, you need to ensure that the fan you’re interested in is the right fit for your space . Literally. It may seem like an obvious thing, but you would be amazed to know how many inexperienced homeowners select a ceiling fan based only on visual appeal without thinking about how small or large they need it to be for their needs. For example In a room up to 50 square feet, choose a 29″ fan. Medium size rooms up to 100 square feet can fit fans from 36″ to 42″. Standard bedrooms and family rooms up to 400 square feet work best with fans that are 50″ or 52″.

Visuals:

As a semi-permanent fixture, you want your newly installed ceiling fan to look good in your home. Just as an ugly couch can ruin the appeal of an otherwise beautiful room, an out of place ceiling fan can detract from the overall aesthetic of your home. And since most fans come with lighting fixtures, you also can consider which lighting will best compliment your room. There are options like  spotlights and multiple glass shades that can be added to a fitter to enhance the design. A friend or family member with a keen eye for interior design will jump at the chance to help find you the perfect fan, but failing that, our resident expert representatives are ready, willing, and able to assist you in deciding on a fan that accentuates your home’s existing features.

Cooling Power:

Power, in the sense of how much cooling ability the fan brings to the table. A fan’s primary function is first and foremost to supply a refreshing cool breeze to your living space. Depending entirely on your preferences, a fan can provide a barely-there breeze or a noticeable gust of air. The air intensity, or lack thereof, is a huge part of picking a ceiling fan that you shouldn’t take lightly. 

Energy Efficiency

With everyone trying to be ecologically friendly these days, having a fan that is good on electricity may be something that’s important to you. Thankfully, ceiling fans are some of the best cooling products for conserving energy. Most fans only consume about 90 or so watts of electricity, leaving even the greenest A/C systems in the dust. That said, many people install an extra ceiling fan in a room to act as an energy-efficient cooling alternative to air conditioning. 

Special Fans for Special Rooms: 

Are you thinking of putting a fan in the bathroom? What about an outdoor fan to accentuate your covered patio? For more unorthodox installations, you need an especially designed fan. Bathroom fans need to be designed with small spaces in mind, and outdoor fans need specialized casings to protect them from the elements. Placing improper fans in these types of locations could mean serious damage to your fan and/or home. 

Call Ryan Gath Electric today for answers to all your electrical questions!

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Please check with lender for up-to-date terms, conditions and eligibility requirements. Information on this page is subject to change. Ryan Gath Electric is not responsible for the terms and conditions of third party lenders, or the accuracy of this page. gfci in lowell gfci in lowell

By Ryan Gath Electric

Many people don’t understand how electric circuits work, and the equipment used to protect your family from an electric shock or fire. This is done through a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI), which is one of the most important pieces of equipment in a home that can save your life. For any areas that have both water and electricity, a GFCI is a must in any Lowell home, and is required by law according to the National Electric Code (NEC).

What does a GFCI do?

A GFCI detects any irregular current flows and shuts off the power before things become serious. Without a GFCI, there is a heightened risk, putting you and your family at risk. Without a GFCI in place, property values are lowered due to the high risk of electrical issues being present. There are three main advantages to having GFCI outlets:

• Preventing Shock

GFCI outlets prevent electrocution and shock. The built-in sensor monitors the change in electric flow and will shut down when there is a problem. Although a little more expensive than standard outlets, it is well worth the cost.

• Preventing Fire

GFCI outlets detect ground faults. This aids in preventing electrical fires. Coupled with the assistance of electrical fuses, the likelihood of an electrical fire occurring is very slim.

• Prevention of Appliance Damage

As time passes, there are instances where electric currents can damage certain appliances within home. This is one reason why computer hard disk drives fail or shut down. When using a GFCI, when leaks are detected, the circuit will shut down. This helps protect your appliances and equipment from being damaged.

What is the difference between a GFCI and a circuit breaker?

Circuit breakers are designed to protect an electrical circuit from damage caused by overload or short circuiting. It can be reset automatically or manually to continue operation. They are designed in a number of sizes – consider it a mechanical fuse. A GFCI senses a leak in the circuit, usually before the circuit break. Although both interrupt electrical shortages, the GFCI is more sensitive, identifying other places that have water usage.

Where should you install a GFCI in Your Lowell Home?

Before installing a GFCI, it is best to know where it should be placed. Because GFCIs detect electrical currents near water, it should be installed in an area that is subject to moisture. This includes bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, garages, and other places where moisture can collect.

How do you test a GFCI?

If you have a GFCI that was installed prior to 2006, you need to test it with a circuit tester. You plug it into the outlet and push the test button. If the power goes off, the GFCI is still working. Pressing the reset button will restore power. If the power does not go off, that means the GFCI is no longer working. Newer GFCIs give you an automatic warning when they are no longer working, and the power will shut off on its own. This indicates it needs to be replaced.

How does a GFCI differ from an AFCI?

An Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) outlet is designed to recognize arc faults, which are in the wiring. A GFCI protects people from electric shock. Faulty wiring in arc-faults can be a result of humidity or heat, extended mechanical or voltage stress, or age. When wires become damaged by nails or other punctures, animal bites, or bent wires that cause cord damage, this can result in arc-faults.

How do you use a temporary GFCI?

A temporary GFCI is used to provide electricity for areas that need temporary use. This is done by installing a GFCI breaker that should be tested on a weekly basis to ensure there are no hazards that could cause electric shock or fire. There are certain rules to follow for temporary installation, and additional guidelines to be followed for installation removal.

When can you use temporary GFCIs?

You can use temporary GFCIs when you have certain activities going on that require electricity, but can be removed after completion of the purpose. This includes remodeling, demolition of buildings, developmental work, emergencies, tests, decorative lighting for events, and other instances where temporary electrical power is needed. Temporary GFCI installation has time limits on the amount of time it can be used, based on the use. Portable GFCI devices are also widely used on job sites, for portable generators, vending machines and more.

Knowing these seven factors on how and why GFCIs are important can provide peace of mind, knowing the risk has been lessened and will keep your family comfortable and safe. Now you are aware of what is required, whether installing yourself or using a contractor. This will assist in making sure your home is protected the right way.

Call Ryan Gath Electric today for answers to all your electrical questions!

Or check out our stellar Google reviews!

Please check with lender for up-to-date terms, conditions and eligibility requirements. Information on this page is subject to change. Ryan Gath Electric is not responsible for the terms and conditions of third party lenders, or the accuracy of this page. gfci in lowell gfci in lowell

By Ryan Gath Electric