Electrical Tips

Today, it’s not uncommon for people to begin outdoor holiday decorating in time for Halloween. Whether you enjoy setting up spooky lights and sound machines or Christmas lighting displays that illuminate your block, you’ll need to rely on your electrical system. For elaborate holiday displays, you may not have the capacity to power your outdoor displays. Working with an electrician from Tioga Contractors is the best way to safely install your Grapevine, TX, outdoor decor. We feature certified electricians and a wide range of electrical solutions for area customers.

Assess Your Electrical System

Inspecting your electrical system before the holidays and the added stress additional lighting will put on it is a good idea. Early fall is a good time to check out why a certain light fixture flickers now and then or why a breaker has been tripping. You want to ensure that your electrical system is in safe working condition before you set up your exterior holiday and lighting displays. It’s best to let an electrical services professional inspect your electrical system. Let them know if you’ve had any issues with any aspect of your electrical system.

During your inspection, you can also share your decorating plans with your electrician. Today, there are many different types of outdoor holiday decorations that use power to operate. If you want to set up a Halloween bouncy house at your home for a kids’ party or you intend to install an illuminate Santa and sleigh on your rooftop, talk to an electrician from Tioga Contractors about your current electrical capacity and whether or not you may need additional wiring and exterior outlets to safely power up these fun features.

Exterior Outlets

How many exterior outlets does your home have? One of the most common outdoor electrical services is the installation of outdoor outlets. Ideally, you should install exterior outlets where you can easily access them for your displays. Running extension cords a long distance isn’t safe as it’s a trip and fall risk. However, it’s also not safe to run multiple extension cords from inside of your home through a window to power an outdoor feature or to string multiple cords together. Discussing your plans with an electrician is the best way to determine where to install an outdoor outlet.

Your electrical services professional can install GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupters) in your exterior locations. These are outlets designed for outdoor use or in areas of the home like the bathroom or kitchen where water is present and could accidentally wet the outlet, causing damage or even electrocution. Exterior outlets are safe for use providing they’re a GFCI outlet and have the proper cover. A cover protects the outlet from rain, dirt, and debris. When not in use, your outdoor outlets should always be covered to protect them and your electrical system.

If your GFCI outlet does get wet, it cuts off the power immediately. It’s best to let a certified electrician install these features and test them to ensure they function properly. Tioga Contractors can supply all of your outdoor lighting needs.

Don’t Overtax Electrical Features

Each breaker of your home can supply about 15 amps of electricity. If you exceed what the circuit can handle, you’ll trip the breaker. Overtaxing your electrical system can cause damage. That’s why it’s important to consult an electrical services professional about the best ways to power your home’s outdoor lighting and other features. Stringing too many lights together is never a wise idea. Again, adding a circuit may be the ideal option for your home. In addition to powering your holiday displays, they can enhance your fun during the warm season when you entertain outside or simply need to power up electric yard tools.

Consider Alternatives

These days, you can purchase solar-powered and battery-operated decorative features that don’t rely on your home’s electrical panel. You can decorate your Grapevine, TX, home using solar lights and battery-operated lights set on timers. If you’re concerned about reducing the electric draw on your home’s electrical panel, consider LED lights that use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. If you have any questions or concerns about which products might be ideal for your home, you should consult your electrician.

Electric Cords / Extension Cords

Be careful to choose electric cords or extension cords that are rated for outdoor use for your exterior decor. Using the wrong type of cord can be a fire hazard. Also, you should inspect your cords carefully before using them. Don’t use any cords that have been spliced or are in disrepair. As mentioned, you don’t want to run extension cords and power strips together to reach a distant outdoor location. This is a fire risk and also a trip and fall risk.

Once your cords are in place and you begin to use them, inspect them periodically. Winds can knock them out of place. Animals can also disturb the cords. Keep an eye on your electrical decorative features to ensure that they’re undisturbed and safe for continued use.

Prepare for Problems

If something goes wrong with your exterior display, don’t minimize potential risks. If a breaker keeps tripping or an outlet stops working, contact an electrical services professional from our team to inspect the situation. You never want to take chances with your electrical system and safety. Sometimes the added stress of exterior and interior holiday lighting can lead to a problem. Fortunately, an experienced electrician can make the repair you need.

If you live in Grapevine, TX, and need a skilled electrical services professional to inspect or repair your electrical system, choose Tioga Contractors. We have a reputation for excellent workmanship and fair pricing. Let our electrician help you design your exterior holiday lighting displays. We’ll make sure you can operate your outdoor features safely.

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The electrical system in your home is one of the most essential systems because it provides power to your home and powers your HVAC and plumbing equipment. If there’s an issue with your electricity, it can affect the amount of energy going to the home, and the other systems in your home won’t function. Your home’s electrical system is also the most dangerous. Ignoring electrical issues can quickly start an electrical fire, and DIY electrical repairs can result in you being electrocuted; therefore, it’s best to hire a licensed professional.

Licensed electricians undergo years of training to work with electricity safely and diagnose and repair issues correctly.

If your electrical system experiences any of the following issues, it’s best to hire an electrician as soon as the problem starts.

#1 Flickering Lights

Do the lights in your Keller, TX home flicker every time you use an appliance? If this happens all the time, it’s time to call an electrical services provider. The lights are flickering because your electrical system can’t handle the electrical demand. If you plug in something new, the system can become overloaded, which can cause a fire.

A licensed tech can upgrade the system so it can handle your family’s energy demand, preventing a disaster from occurring.

#2 Your Light Bulbs Aren’t Lasting As Long

Incandescent light bulbs last around 750 hours. If you’re using these bulbs, you should switch to LED. LED lights are more energy-efficient, can last as long as 100,000 hours, and typically don’t have to be replaced for three to five years. If a bulb in one of the lights in your home burns out much sooner than it should, you can keep replacing the bulb, but it’s better to call a licensed electrician.

The problem is likely due to an issue with the circuit or the socket, and it’s best to have a professional fix it. Ignoring the problem could result in the socket or circuit failing or starting to spark, creating a hazardous situation.

A licensed professional can inspect the light to determine whether it’s the socket or a faulty circuit to solve the problem. When the repair is complete, you won’t have to replace the light bulb sooner than necessary, and you can prevent a disaster from occurring.

#3 The Circuit Breaker Trips Constantly

It’s not uncommon for a circuit to trip occasionally. If the circuits trip frequently, it’s best to call a licensed electrician right away.

The most common cause of this problem is an electrical overload. The breaker box in your home is designed to handle a specific amount of energy. If the circuits cannot handle your family’s electrical demand, the circuits will trip and could start an electrical fire. There could also be an issue with the circuit wiring, which is also a serious and hazardous problem. Fortunately, a licensed professional can upgrade the circuit breaker.

A licensed professional can inspect the breaker to determine why the circuit trips often. If they determine it’s due to an overload, they can upgrade the electrical system to handle the electrical demand. If the wiring is the issue, the technician can fix that as well, ensuring the safety of your home and family.

#4 A Burnt Smell

Is there a burning smell in your Keller, TX home, and you can’t find the source? If so, it’s likely coming from behind the wall. There are several possible reasons for this, such as short circuits or old wiring.

If possible, you should try to track the smell. If it leads to the breaker box or an electrical outlet, you should cut the power in your home and call an electrical services provider immediately. These serious problems can quickly start an electrical fire, so it’s best not to keep the power on until the issue is resolved.

#5 Visible Signs Of Deterioration In the Electrical Panel

The electrical panel is the heat of your home’s electrical, which safely distributes power to every room of the house. If you see visible damage, such as loose circuits or rust, you should hire an electrician as soon as possible.

An electrical services technician can determine if the panel can be repaired or if it’s best to replace it.

#6 You Need Extension Cords

If you live in an older house, you may not have the number of outlets you need. Decades ago, people didn’t need as many outlets because they didn’t have multiple TVs in their homes, and they didn’t have to charge cell phones, laptops, and other devices, so there was no need for multiple outlets in every room.

If you’re using extension cords and power strips in every room in the house, you should consider calling an electrician.

Extension cords aren’t meant to be used permanently and could create a tripping hazard. Power strips are great for certain areas, such as behind the TV, where you need to plug in many other devices. Older homes weren’t designed to handle a significant amount of power, so there are minimal outlets in your home, and using power strips and extension cords could overload the system.

A licensed professional can install more outlets in your home and upgrade the electrical panel to ensure it can handle the load.

#7 An Outlet Is Warm To the Touch

If an outlet in your Keller, TX home is warm to the touch, it indicates faulty wiring or an overloaded circuit, and both problems can start an electrical fire. An electrician can inspect the outlet and the wiring to make the necessary repair.

Why Choose Tioga Contractors?

If you need to hire an electrician, call Tioga Contractors. We are a family-owned and operated electric and plumbing company, serving customers in the Dallas Fort Worth area since 1953.

Our entire team is professionally trained, certified, and qualified to handle any electrical problem.

When our tech arrives at your home, they will be in a fully-stocked truck, so many repairs can be made on the same day.

The tech will give you an accurate quote before they start working, so you’ll know exactly what the job costs ahead of time.

If you have an issue that can’t wait until our regular business hours, we provide emergency service and will get an electrician to your house as quickly as possible.

To schedule an appointment for an electric or plumbing problem or service, give Tioga Contractors a call or book online.

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If you’re like most people, you take the comfort of your home for granted. You may not even realize that there are things you can do to make your home more comfortable and valuable. But there are! And one of the best ways to achieve this is through electrical service in Bedford, TX. Here are ten ways that electrical service can improve your home’s comfort and value:

1. Add LED Lighting

One of the easiest and most effective ways to improve your home’s comfort and value is to add LED lighting. LEDs are more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs, saving you money on your energy bills. They also emit less heat, so you’ll be able to keep your home cooler in the summer months.

2. Install a Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat is another great way to improve your home’s comfort and value. Smart thermostats are programmable, so you can set them to turn on and off at specific times. This means you won’t have to waste energy by heating or cooling your home when no one is home. Smart thermostats can also learn your heating and cooling habits and adjust accordingly. This means they’ll save you even more money on your energy bills.

3. Replace Your Water Heater

If your water heater is over ten years old, it’s time to replace it. Newer water heaters are much more energy-efficient than older models. This means they’ll save you money on your energy bills and help to keep your home more comfortable. Also, consider converting from a gas to an electric water heater. Electric water heaters are more energy-efficient and have a lower carbon footprint.

4. Upgrade Your Electrical Panel

An electrical panel upgrade is an excellent way to improve your home’s comfort and value. A new electrical panel can provide your home with more power, ensuring that you have enough energy to run all of your appliances. It can also help improve your home’s safety by preventing electrical fires. It will be a valuable selling point for buyers when you’re ready to sell your residence because the upgrade can support more home electronics.

5. Install Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are another great way to improve your home’s comfort. Ceiling fans help circulate the air in your room, making it feel cooler in the summer months. They also help to reduce energy costs by allowing you to use less air conditioning. New ceiling fans can also increase your home’s available light. Speak with Tioga Contractors today about this electrical service.

6. Whole-House Surge Protection

Whole-house surge protection is an excellent way to improve the comfort and value of your home. Surge protection protects your appliances from power surges, which can damage them. It can also help to prevent electrical fires. Installing whole-house surge protection is a great way to protect your investment and keep your home safe. Plus, if you’re placing your home on the market soon, it can attract buyers who are looking for a home with this type of protection.

7. Install GFCI Outlets

GFCI outlets are another essential safety feature that you should have in your home. GFCI outlets protect you from electrocution by shutting off the power if they detect a ground fault. This makes them an essential safety feature for any home, especially homes with young children or elderly residents. If your home’s older, you may not have GFCI outlets installed. This is an electrical service in Bedford, TX, that you should consider.

8. Replace Old Wiring

If your home has old wiring, it’s time to replace it. Old wiring can be a fire hazard and cause your appliances to malfunction. Replacing old wiring is an excellent way to improve your home’s comfort and value.

A similar electrical service is whole-house rewiring. Although this is a more extensive project, it’s well worth the investment. Even if you’re not selling your home, a rewiring project may help lower your homeowner’s premium to make your home safer. Either way, you’ll get the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is safe.

9. Add Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting is a great way to improve your home’s curb appeal. It can also make your home safer and more secure. Tioga Contractors offers a wide range of outdoor lighting options, from solar-powered lights to LED floodlights. We can help you find the perfect lighting for your home.

This is an excellent time for another electrical service—installing an outdoor kitchen. This luxurious amenity will make your home the envy of the neighborhood. It’s also a great way to entertain guests. If you love to cook, an outdoor kitchen is a must-have.

10. Home Energy Audit

A home energy audit is an excellent way to identify ways to improve your home’s comfort and value. A home energy auditor will come to your home and assess your energy usage. They’ll then provide you with a report that includes recommendations for improving your home’s energy efficiency. Implementing even a few of these recommendations can significantly impact your home’s comfort and value.

A home energy audit is ideal to complete before putting your home on the market. It can help you identify areas where energy-saving improvements should be made. These improvements will make your home more attractive to buyers and can help you sell your home faster.

You don’t have to wait until you’re ready to sell your home to get a home energy audit. If you’re interested in improving your home’s energy efficiency, contact Tioga Contractors today to schedule an audit. Electrical service in Bedford, TX, is an excellent way to improve your home’s comfort and value. These are just a few of the ways an electrical service can help. For more information about electrical services, contact Tioga Contractors today. We’d be happy to answer any of your questions.

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The circuit breaker is often heralded as an essential advancement in electrical engineering. Unlike a fuse box, it isn’t sacrificial and allows you to restore power without looking for a spare. The main problem is that it automatically shuts off the power when overloaded with electricity. There are a few reasons why your circuit breaker keeps tripping, and some of them come with big danger signs attached. Rather than try your hand at amateur electrical repair, enlist the help of an experienced electrician to tackle the problem.

Has Your Circuit Breaker Tripped?

The circuit breaker controls everything on the circuit in your home’s electrical service panel. This includes everything from appliances to lights and fixtures. If the power in a particular area of your home rather than the whole house is off, the problem is probably a tripped circuit breaker.

You must know the location of your home’s circuit breaker. Moreover, the circuit breaker should be easily accessible and properly labeled. If there are two circuit breakers for the same area, you’ll want to detail which part of the area. For instance, you can label one kitchen circuit breaker as “kitchen appliances” and the other as “kitchen counter outlets.” An experienced electrician from Tioga Contractors in Grapevine, TX, can label your circuit breakers if you need help.

When the circuit breaker trips, the switch handle moves between the on and off positions. You may also see a red light indicating that the circuit breaker tripped. Resetting the tripped circuit breaker is easy since all you have to do is move the switch handle to the off position and then turn it on. You’ll want to stand back or to the side for safety purposes. Don’t forget to schedule an appointment with a professional electrician to examine the possibility of the following issues and resolve them for good.

Circuit Overload

Circuit overload occurs when the circuit draws more power than it can handle. The internal sensing mechanism heats up when too many appliances or fixtures are operating simultaneously. This prompts the spring-loaded mechanism within the circuit breaker to trip, rendering the circuit inactive. The power remains off until you reset the circuit breaker.

You can easily prevent circuit overload and keep your circuit breaker from repeatedly tripping by plugging in fewer appliances simultaneously. However, the most effective and long-term solution is having an electrical services provider update your wiring and add more circuits. Let’s say your living room and kitchen run on the same circuit. Adding two circuits to handle the kitchen counter outlets and appliances will allow you to use the mixer or microwave without fear of damaging your television.

Short Circuit

A short circuit occurs when an active electrical wire comes into contact with a neutral wire. It can occur in a switch or outlet. A short circuit can also occur within an appliance if the wires are damaged due to corrosion or pests chewing through them. When an electrical short occurs, it trips the circuit breaker and often produces sparks, smoke, or popping sounds.

Common causes of a short circuit include:

  • Faulty wire insulation: Electrical wires are usually coated with non-conductive material like PVC. If that insulation gets damaged or wears out, the live wiring may come into contact with the neutral wire and cause a short circuit.
  • Damaged wire connections: They result in increased electrical resistance, and this increases the temperature of the wiring. The result is either electric shock or fire.
  • Faulty appliance wiring: The culprit could be faulty wiring within the appliance, its plug, or the power cord.

Remember to enlist the help of a qualified electrician from Tioga Contractors to investigate electrical shorts in your home’s wiring.

Ground Fault

A ground fault occurs when a live electric wire comes into contact with a metal wall box, ground wire, or metal framing members. It can be quite dangerous, primarily if it occurs in an area with high moisture levels, like the bathroom or kitchen. As a result, the risk of electrical shock is very high. A ground fault causes a spike in electricity and causes the circuit breaker to trip.

Building codes offer provisions for carrying electricity safely into the ground to prevent this kind of short circuit. For instance, high moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens must have ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). A GFCI shuts down electric current within less than a second when it senses a ground fault.

If a ground fault is the reason your circuit breaker keeps tripping, locating and repairing the source of the errant water will resolve the issue. You’ll want to replace any damaged wiring and install GFCI outlets in rooms where water is commonly used. All of these are jobs for a licensed electrician.

Arcing Fault

An arc fault occurs when there’s an electrical discharge between faulty or loose wires. Corroded wires create a weak connection, creating an arc fault when the current “jumps” from one end of the wire to the other. The resulting arc causes electricity to travel a short distance through the air. It’s incredibly unpredictable since various factors determine its path, including the circuit’s nature and humidity. It also generates a lot of heat that can damage or melt the wiring insulation.

The main sign of an arcing fault is a faint buzzing in the affected area. Other telltale signs include the smell of melted plastic and burning and blackened spots around electrical wiring and outlets. The primary way to mitigate against the risks of an arcing fault is to install arc fault circuit interrupters (ACFIs) in your home. You’ll also want to consult a licensed electrician in Grapevine, TX if you suspect an arcing fault to resolve it before it becomes a bigger problem.

Call an Electrician to Investigate Other Possible Causes

It’s possible that your circuit breaker is faulty, undersized for the amount of current passing through the circuit, or that your wiring isn’t up to code. You must hire a professional electrician to inspect your electrical system, identify the problem, and resolve it promptly.The experts at Tioga Contractors will help you keep your Grapevine, TX, home safe. Contact us today if your circuit breaker keeps tripping, and an emergency electrician will be at your doorstep as soon as possible.

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There are many options available when you’re looking for a new family home. You may like to buy an existing property or continue renting. An increasing number of people are choosing to build their homes from scratch. If you’re looking to create your dream home, you’ll need a team of architects and tradespeople, from builders to plumbers and an electrical service.

If you live in Hurst, TX, and are searching for an electrician to wire your new build or repair any existing issues in your old home, you may like to contact Tioga Contractors. The company provides a good quality electrical service and is also available for emergency call out.

Many people take inspiration from property programs on the TV. While building your own home can be challenging and takes passion and dedication, the end result will be worth it.

There are many benefits to self-building; let’s look at some of the main reasons people design and build their own homes. We’ll also tell you what to consider before taking on a self-build project.

May Save You Money

Research shows that building your own home often costs less than buying an existing property. In fact, you may be able to save a staggering 30% more than if you were to purchase pre-built real estate.

It’s also possible to make further savings as your stamp duty will be charged on the cost of your land instead of on your finished property. You’ll also be able to reclaim any VAT you’ve paid on things like material and installation costs.

Create a Modern and Energy-Efficient Home

One of the main reasons people decide to build their own home is that it will be more modern and they can choose new systems and devices. Smart features, new appliances, and good electrical and plumbing systems can all be integrated into your self-build home to make it very modern from the beginning. Choosing energy efficient windows or even solar panels will make your home more energy efficient, and you’ll benefit from lower monthly utility bills.

You’ll also be able to install modern luxuries, including underfloor heating, which is costly and challenging to install in a pre-made property.

Good Resale Value

If you’re good at budgeting, it’s likely that your finished home will be worth approximately 20% more than it cost you to buy the land and build. Buyers will often pay more for modern self-build homes, so you may be able to enjoy an increased profit on your investment.

No Competition

It’s often tricky to find the perfect home, especially if you’re viewing properties in a desirable area. Often new homes are bought as soon as they appear on the market. It could be frustrating if you thought you had found the perfect home only to discover that it had been snapped up by someone else.

If you decide to build your own home, you won’t have much competition, and you’ll know that you can move into the house once it’s built.

Your Home will Perfectly Suit Your Needs

Building your own home allows you to consider exactly what you need; you’ll be able to ensure the finished home meets your exact specifications. You can choose the perfect fixtures and fittings, appliances, and décor.

You Can Choose Your Location

The first thing to consider when designing your new home is its location. Rather than only looking at one location, you may like to check out a few. You can have a look around some showrooms in the area and speak to local contractors such as builders, plumbers, and an electrical service.

If you have no idea which suburb you want to live in, it’s a good idea to take the time to look into a few different areas. Walk or drive around the suburbs and – visit showrooms and eat at cafes. It’s also worth checking how long it would take you to get to work before deciding where to build.

Things to Consider When Opting for a Self-Build

A self-build will take time and dedication as well as many professionals such as builders and an electrical service. Here are some things you should consider before realizing your dream of building your own home.

Choose a Development Company

There are development companies available that provide set house footprints at a fixed cost. This is the best option if you’re looking to make building your home as straightforward as possible.

If you have your own style and want special components, then you’ll require more flexibility and may like to manage the project yourself. This would require you to employ a builder, plumber, and electrical service separately to ensure you get every component just as you want it to be.

To find the right tradespeople, you can visit show homes, ask friends and family for recommendations or ask your followers via social media.

Mortgage and a Lawyer

Once you’ve decided on where you want to build your new home and have found the correct contractors, you’ll also need to get a mortgage pre-approval and a lawyer. You may like to employ a mortgage broker to find the best deal for you. Mortgage brokers are professionals who know the market inside out and will be able to shop around to find the lowest interest rate. They will also advise you on how much you can borrow.

Tioga Contractors, electrical service, Hurst, TX

If you live in Hurst, TX, and are searching for an electrical service to wire your new build or repair any existing issues in your old home, you may like to contact Tioga Contractors. The company provides a good quality electrical service and is also available for emergency call out.

Don’t hesitate to contact the team today for more information about their electrical service!

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Your home’s electrical system can be considered dangerous. Your electrical system handles a load of electrical energy every day, nearly all day long. This constant influx of energy is powerful. Your electrical system is strong and sturdy, however, constant wear and tear are bound to make your home’s electrical system faulty at some point in time. To keep your electrical system in good condition, experts recommend having a reoccurring electrician, service your home at least once a year. This yearly maintenance visit will include inspections, repairs, and upgrades when needed. A yearly or biannual electrical system checkup will help prevent electrical system malfunctions, and maintain the safety parameters used to keep you and your property safe from serious electrical system faults.

To stay safe when using your electrical system, it is important to pay attention to it. Your electrical system may exhibit signs that something isn’t right and needs to be repaired right away. If you notice any signs that your electrical system isn’t working properly, you need to contact a professional right away. Another way to ensure your safety when using your electrical system is getting yearly inspections by a professional. A trained electrician will be able to see signs you may not notice and prevent electrical disasters before they occur. If you are in need of a professional electrical technician in the Bedford, TX, area, contact Tioga Contractors for urgent and reoccurring electrical maintenance and repair.

Common Electrical Hazards

There are things you can do to avoid common electrical mishaps. Taking preventive measures will save you money, prevent injury, and prevent property damage. If your property is prone to electrical malfunctions or hazards, have it fixed as soon as possible. Do not allow electrical hazards to remain in operation. Repairing electrical faults fast will help you prevent electrical fires, electric shock, and electrical property damage.

Bad Quality or Loose Wiring

Your home’s wiring system must be in tip-top shape at all times in order to function safely and efficiently. Poor quality wiring or loose wiring can cause power surges, electrical fires, and electrical shock to become an imminent threat. Loose wires are especially concerning because it is hard to detect and may lead to significant property damage or bodily injury. The presence of loose wiring indicates there is electrical energy being wasted and damaging your electrical system. Your reoccurring electrician will be able to detect this malfunction and replace the loose or frayed wire before it causes more damage.

Your electrical system needs secure circuits and wires in order for electricity to travel around your property safely. If your wires are loose, some of that electrical energy is being disbursed directly into the rest of your electrical system in an uncontrolled way. This will lead to electrical system damage and possibly worse instances of property damage.

There are many factors that can cause loose and frayed wires to occur. If your system is old or incorrectly installed, it could lead to significantly damaged wiring. Other factors include insects and rodents. Rodents and insects sometimes chew through or damaged wires, which can cause your electrical system to become compromised. Finding the culprit of the damage is just as important as the repair. Finding the cause of the issue will help prevent it from ever happening again. Your reoccurring professional electrician is going to find the cause and repair it. Once the cause of the malfunction is eliminated you can use your electrical system without worry or stress it will damage your property or harm you. If you live in or around the Bedford, TX, area, contact Tioga Contractors for all of your electrical service needs.

Extension Cords

Extension cords are considered electrical hazards because it’s an accident waiting to happen. Having multiple extension cords is an eyesore, it is inefficient, and can cause people to trip. Using extension cords for long periods of time can also be hazardous to natural wear and tear. Extension cords are meant to be used temporarily. If you find that you are using multiple extension cords often, you should have a professional electrician install more outlets.

Outlets Near Water

The ideal configuration of your electrical system would have electrical outlets far away from sources of water, such as a sink, bathtub, or toilet. However, having an outlet near water is sometimes unavoidable. There are methods and appliances you can use that will ensure your safety when using an outlet near water.

To stay safe when using outlets near water you must never use one when your hands are wet. Be sure to thoroughly dry your hands when you go to plug something in or turn something on. Do not run water when using the electrical outlet in bathrooms or kitchens. When you are done using the appliance, unplug it and put it away. When plugging in an electrical appliance, make sure the surface is dry.

Outlets that are near water will usually have a safety measure installed. This safety measure is known as a GFCI. A GFCI is a ground fault circuit interrupter. This device is meant to interrupt the circuit when it notices an imbalance in the electrical current. The GFCI can be lifesaving. It can also help protect your property from electrical damage. The GFCI is an essential safety component for outlets near water sources. If you do not have GFCI’s installed in the outlets near water or are unsure if you do, contact your local electrician to have them installed as soon as possible.

You have to be careful when using outlets that are near water. Using protective measures and having your trusted and local electrician inspect and install more protective measures will ensure your safety when using electrical appliances around water.

In Case of an Electrical Emergency

In the case of an electrical emergency do not panic, contact emergency personnel right away. If an electrical fire ever occurs do not pour water on it. The flame will just spread the fire since water is a conductor of electricity. You should use a fire extinguisher instead. In the case of an electric shock, you should not touch the person being electrocuted, instead, use a stick or something that doesn’t conduct electricity to try and move them from the electric source. If you can, cut the electrical current off completely.

Preventing these common electrical hazards is extremely easy to do. You must hire a local and trusted professional electrician to periodically inspect and repair your electrical system components In order to keep your system running efficiently and safely. If you live in or around the Bedford, TX, area, and are in need of a professional electrician, contact Tioga Contractors.

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One of the toughest parts about owning a home is the fact that you’re expected to do so many different jobs. Not only do you have to keep the house clean and well maintained, you also have to keep an eye out for plumbing and electrical problems. Your best bet if you own a home is to learn some of the basics, so you can at least call an expert when you know you need help. If you want to know when to call an electrical service expert for an electrical problem at your home, we’ve got you covered.

Electrical Safety

The first thing you need to understand about electrical problems is that you don’t want to deal with them on your own. Whether you’ve got an outlet that’s getting too hot or a breaker that keeps tripping, you should always hire an electrical service company to do work on your home.

There may also be times when you need to shut off the power to your home to prevent electrical safety hazards, which you should know how to do already. If you’re not sure how to shut off electricity to a single room or your entire home, a professional can walk you through the process step by step. No matter how solid your electrical system is or how recently your home was built, you should always know how to turn the power off if you need to.

Frequently Tripping Breakers

Circuit breakers are designed to cut power to part of your home when that circuit is overloaded. This is done to reduce the risk of electrical hazards in your Hurst, TX, home. However, those breakers shouldn’t be tripping an absurd amount.

If you notice the same breaker tripping over and over again, particularly when you use a certain appliance or electronic, you need to call an electrical company. A frequently tripping breaker could be a result of a problem with part of your electrical system, or it could simply mean that you’re using too many high-powered appliances. Ultimately, it’s best to have an electrical professional take a look at things if a breaker is tripping day after day.

Warm or Discolored Outlets

Electricity creates heat, which normally isn’t a huge problem in your home. However, poorly wired outlets can generate so much heat that it actually starts to burn the outlet itself a bit. If you notice any of the outlets in your home are starting to get discolored or feel warm to the touch, that’s a sign of faulty wiring that requires electrical service.

Flickering Lights

Flickering lights are more than just an annoying problem to deal with around your home, they’re a sign that you’ve got serious problems with your electrical system. If you notice lights flickering throughout the day or right when you turn the light on, it could be a problem with the wiring or the light itself. The best thing to do is call an electrical service expert and have them take a closer look at your lights.

Odors

Most people don’t think of odors when they think of electricity, but a burning smell is one of the quickest ways to figure out you have an electrical problem. If parts of your electrical system are getting too hot, that’s a serious problem that could result in a fire. The good news is, it should be fairly easy for an electrical service company to figure out what’s causing the smell and how to fix it.

Power Sags

If you notice things like lights dimming down a bit or devices not being as powerful when you turn certain things on, it could be that you’re using too much power and causing power sags. Power sags occur when there’s not enough power available for a certain fixture or appliance, which results in substandard performance. This isn’t necessarily the biggest problem when it comes to fire hazards, but it’s something you should get fixed so your electronics work right and you aren’t damaging them.

Isolated Outages

When your power goes out, you should notice several other homes around you that also don’t have power. If your power goes out and all the other homes in your neighborhood still have power, that means the outage is isolated and caused by a problem with your electrical system. Not only are these outages annoying, but the problems that cause them are often quite serious, so you should call an electrical service company right away if only your power goes out.

Upgrading Your Electrical System

If you’ve had somebody take a look at your electrical system and you just can’t seem to stop the power sags or keep breakers from tripping, it might be time to upgrade your electrical system. A new electrical panel can go a long way toward improving the electrical system in your home.

Before you upgrade your electrical panel, make sure you talk to an electrical service expert to figure out whether or not it’s the right move. It’s also important that you get an electrical panel that can handle your specific needs and is built to last.

Here to Help

Of all the things you need to do to keep your home in good shape, electrical service is one of the toughest parts. With a little bit of time and effort, though, you can prevent electrical problems and keep your home safe and working properly for years to come.

If you’re looking for a little electrical service help in Hurst, TX, look no further than Tioga Contractors. Thanks to years of experience, we can take care of just about any electrical problem. Give Tioga Contractors a call at 469-789-1292 today to schedule an appointment.

Photo By milehightraveler at istock

Winter storms are common and hazardous in many parts of the United States. Many homeowners worry about how they’ll cope during a power outage but have you thought about how floods or lightning can affect your electrics. How you act and react during a storm will determine how safe you and your family are. Don’t risk putting yourself at risk this winter; follow these simple tips to keep yourself safe whatever the weather.

If you live in Hurst, TX, or the surrounding area and are searching for an electrical service, don’t hesitate to contact Tioga Contractors. The company is available for all types of electrical installation, maintenance, and repair and can also provide an emergency electrical service.

When Lightning Strikes

Lightning kills and injures many people each year. For this reason, it’s essential to take electrical storm safety seriously. If you’re unlucky enough to suffer from a lightning strike, the event could be fatal. Many people do survive but are left with lasting physical or neurological damage.

Lightning can also strike trees, bring down power lines, and damage electrical equipment. Sometimes there will be a power outage during a lightning storm, or homes will suffer from power surges, affecting electric circuits and appliances. If your homes have been affected call a local electrical service for help and advice.

What Is A Power Surge?

Your electrical system will suffer from a power surge during a storm when there’s a sudden, unexpected increase in voltage. During a power surge, your home and electrical appliances will be supplied with an intense amount of energy that exceeds the standard 120 volts that circuits have been designed to handle. Your home may suddenly be supplied with thousands of volts of electrical charge. This is very dangerous and can also cause electrical appliances to break. After a power surge, you may find that your home has no electricity or that computers, TV, and HVAC systems no longer work.

The most common cause of a power surge is a strike of lightning nearby. If the lightning strikes a powerline or utility pole, it may bring it down or cause a jolt of electricity to be fed into your home and neighboring properties. This high voltage electricity will burn your wiring and circuitry and can even cause a fire to start.

If your home is unlucky enough to experience a severe power surge, you’ll need to call in the help of an electrical service. If you live in Hurst, TX, contact Tioga Contractors. The company can also install a surge protector, which will help protect your electrics. It’s best to install a surge protector if you live in an area that’s prone to winter storms. It’s also a wise idea to insure your property and personal belongings in case your home is damaged due to electricity.

Stay Indoors During A Storm

When a storm is raging outside, it’s best to stay indoors, whether there is thunder or lightning or not. Don’t go outside to try and stop things blowing away or to try and fix any damage. Wait until the storm has passed before assessing damage to your land or property.

If a storm hits before you’ve reached home, it may be a good idea to stay in the nearest sheltered area. You may need to remain in a shop or cafe or could remain in your car until it’s passed. Always remember the ‘30-30′ rule. If you hear thunder, lightning will strike within thirty seconds. It’s a good idea to remain where you are at least thirty minutes after you’ve heard the last clap of thunder.

You should also keep away from water if an electrical storm is forecast. Don’t go out in a boat or walk near a river. Water is dangerous as it is the best conductor of electricity. When lightning strikes, it’s attracted to the tallest object in the area, which is likely to be a person or tree. It’s, therefore, a good idea to stay away from trees.

Avoid Hazardous Areas

Even if you stay indoors, certain things should be avoided during an electrical storm. Keep away from metal and water. Windows can be hazardous, as they are particularly vulnerable to damage. Stay in the central area of your home, or during a bad storm, retreat to the basement. Ensure that all your doors and windows are properly closed, including the garage door.

As water is a powerful conductor of electricity, you should avoid taking a bath or shower or doing the dishes during a thunderstorm. If lightning strikes an outdoor plumbing fitting, electricity will travel through the metal pipes into your home. It’s also wise to avoid using metal objects such as stoves, or electronics including washing machines, entertainment systems, or computers. Instead, use a wireless device such as a cell phone or unplugged laptop.

What To Do After A Storm

Electrical storms can be hazardous and cause considerable damage. After a storm has finished, you can assess the damage to your home, yard, and neighborhood. If you’ve noticed any damage to your electrical circuits, wires, or appliances, don’t attempt to fix these yourself as this is dangerous. Instead, call a professional electrical service to deal with such problems.

If any power lines have come down near your home or in your neighborhood, don’t approach these. They could still have an electrical charge running through them and will be very dangerous. Keep other people, especially children, away from fallen power lines and report the problem to the relevant authorities as soon as possible.

If you’re driving and notice that wires from a fallen power line are spread over the road, don’t drive over these. Stop and call the authorities as the cables may electrocute you.

Tioga Contractors, Electrical Service

If you live in the area and are looking for an electrical service to repair your home’s electrical system and appliances after a storm, don’t hesitate to contact Tioga Contractors. The company is available for all types of electrical service including, installation, maintenance, and repair and can also provide an emergency electrical service.

Photo By D-Keine at istock

Experiencing electric problems in your Euless, TX, home may not always prompt you to call electrical services. In fact, sometimes, you may just think it’s a minor issue that will blow over, leaving you to enjoy the experience of relaxing in your home again.

That’s not always the case and, oftentimes, you may be dealing with an electric problem that requires you to immediately call an electrician. At other times, it’s a minor issue as you suspect.

This list will help you differentiate between the two kinds of problems, allowing you to more effectively recognize when there’s something serious that needs to be fixed immediately.

1. Flickering Lights or Complete Darkness

Inconsistent lighting in your home is no small problem. It may seem like a mere inconvenience at first, but it’s something that often points to much larger issues. Left unattended, these bigger problems can wreak havoc on your entire electric system in your home.

There are some tests you can run to check if the problem is so serious that it needs to be dealt immediately. For starters, you can check if the lights in adjacent rooms are flickering as well. You can also try swapping light bulbs to see if it’s a problem with the specific light bulb or the circuitry.

You can also try checking for the exact instances when your lights are starting to dim. In some cases, this can be immediately after you’ve switched on an electrically demanding appliance, such as a dishwasher or a washing machine.

If you see evidence that the problem is one to do with the circuitry and not just the bulb or an isolated part of the home, that’s a clear sign that you need to call an electrician to fix the problem.

2. Burn Marks Around Outlets

If there are burn marks around your electric outlets, that’s, of course, a huge sign that something has gone seriously wrong. At no point should you see marks like these around your outlets, and spotting them means that the electric current in your home isn’t moving as efficiently as it ought to.

If you see anything like this, be sure to check that it’s not a problem that’s present all over this. Establishing whether it’s localized to a small section of the home or your Euless, TX, home in its entirety can help you gauge the scale of the problem.

An entire house problem is one for which you’ll need to call an electrician immediately. Having just one or a few electric outlets with burn marks on them isn’t as much a cause for concern but it still means you need the issue taken care of as soon as possible.

In the meantime, make sure to avoid using the outlets that have the marks.

3. A Constantly Tripping Circuit Breaker

Your circuit breaker is built to trip whenever the current passing through it becomes too much for it to safely handle. This helps ensure that there are no short circuits with the various electrical appliances you have within your home. However, that’s only meant to happen from time to time. It’s certainly not something you should be expecting to see every day, or even once every few days.

When there’s a problem with the circuit breaker, though, it’s a problem you may find yourself dealing with on an hourly basis once it becomes severe.

You can usually catch the issue out long before it has become something to worry about. Simply pay attention to whether your circuit breaker is tripping more than it usually does. For example, if it’s tripping three times a week as opposed to the twice a month rate you were previously experiencing, that means that there is likely a problem developing with it.

Whenever you suspect that there’s an issue, the most important thing to do is to call an electrician to confirm whether a problem and to fix it if there is.

Letting the problem run on may result in the circuit breaker failing completely. Total failure means that your home will be left susceptible to an overcharged current that may threaten the whole of your electrical system and the electrical appliances you have.

4. Buzzing Noises

Another sign that you may need to call an electrician is buzzing noises at or around your electrical outlets. These mean that there is a problem with the free flow of current, and that in turn points to a risk that the appliances plugged into the socket may receive a higher voltage than they can handle. As a result, your appliances may wind up malfunctioning or they may completely cease to function.

Again, you can check if this problem is one that’s affecting your entire home or simply a section to determine its severity. The crucial thing is simply that you call an electrician, since it can also be a sign that your home’s electric wiring is close to failure.

5. Higher than Normal Bill

You may also need to call an electrician if your electricity bill has become higher than normal in the last few months, especially if your usage hasn’t increased to justify the addition to your electric bill.

The biggest reason why calling an electrician is essential here is so that you can rein in your spending. Having a professional fix the exact problems that are causing your bills to go out of whack will help you do that.

Sometimes, the issue here is that some of your wiring has fallen out of place, causing a larger than usual draw of electricity. Much of it doesn’t go towards anything useful within the home, but you’ll still get charged for it at the end of the month.

There are numerous electric problems that can occur within Euless, TX, home and cause you to need the services of an electrician, when that happens, be sure to contact Tioga Contactors! While spotting them ahead of time may not be easy, the five signs above can help you tell when something has gone wrong and needs to be fixed immediately.

Photo By patpitchaya at Shutterstock

The electrical system in your home is responsible for powering everything in your home from the lights to the appliances to your gadgets. You also need a properly working electrical system for your heating and cooling system to run. If the system isn’t working correctly, it can make life in the home very difficult and inconvenient. Because of this, it is essential that you are able to recognize the signs that it is time to call an electrician. If you are experiencing any electrical issues, you should never make the repairs a DIY project. Electricity can be very dangerous, and if you don’t make the repair correctly, you risk being electrocuted, or you could cause an electrical fire in the home. Here are a few signs that it is time to call a professional.

#1 The Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping

The circuit breaker is your electrical system’s brain. If a circuit breaker trips, it means that the circuit is overloaded. When this happens, you should try unplugging a few of the appliances. If the circuits continue tripping, it is time to call an electrician. There could be a problem in the circuit breaker, and if it isn’t fixed, it could create a fire hazard. The issue could also be that your circuit breaker is too small to power everything in your home. In either case, you will need a professional to make the necessary repairs.

#2 Sparks

If you see electrical sparks coming from an appliance fixture, an outlet, or in the circuit breaker box, you should call a professional immediately. This is a sign that there is something seriously wrong, and it can result in a destructive electrical fire. Sparks are considered an electrical emergency, and you should make the call immediately. It takes just one spark to ignite something near the outlet, resulting in a devastating fire.

#3 Dimming or Flickering Lights

If you turn on an appliance and the lights dim, it is the sign of a serious issue. When the lights dim or flicker, it could mean that the circuit breaker is being overloaded. In this case, a professional would be able to upgrade your circuit breaker box, so that it can handle the amount of electricity that you need. The issue could also be due to a problem with the internal electrical system. If this is a case, you should not try to resolve the issue on your own. It would take a licensed professional to figure out what is causing the problem and then repair it safely.

#4 Hot Outlets and Switch Plates

If you touch the switch plates or outlet in your home and they are warm or hot to the touch, you should call a professional immediately. The heat is likely due to heated wires, which can start a fire if the issue is ignored. If you feel warmth in your switch plate, turn the light off and don’t use it until an electrician can come to your home. If the outlet is warm to the touch, you should unplug anything that is plugged into that outlet, and call a professional immediately.

#5 Moisture or Rust Around the Outlets

If you notice moisture around the outlet, don’t use it. Most people know that water and electricity will result in electrocution. If there is water around the outlet, using it can be incredibly dangerous. Rust around the outlet means that there was water present, which is also a hazard. Merely replacing the outlet cover won’t remedy the problem. You will need to call an electrician to figure out where the water is coming from and repair the problem. This isn’t something that you should try fixing on your own.

#6 Humming or Buzzing Sounds Coming From the Walls

When your electrical system is functioning correctly, you shouldn’t hear a sound. If you hear a humming or buzzing sound within the walls, it is considered an electrical emergency. These sounds indicate that there is an issue with the wiring, and if it is ignored, it can cause an electrical fire that can destroy the entire home. The solution to the problem is likely rewiring, which should only be handled by a licensed electrician. You cannot learn how to rewire your electrical system by watching a video; therefore, you should call a professional immediately.

#7 You Don’t Have Enough Outlets or Three-Prong Plugs

Older houses often have just a couple of outlets in each room. If your home is like this, you might be tempted to use several extension cords. While this may power everything you need in the room, it is a fire hazard. Extension cords allow you to plug multiple appliances and devices into one outlet, which can quickly cause an overload, resulting in an electrical fire. Also, many older homes have just two-prong plugs. You can use an extender to make it a three-prong plug, but using too many is a fire hazard. The best solution to this problem is to call an electrician to upgrade your home’s electrical system. This will make living in the home more convenient, and there will be no risk of a fire.

If you experience any of the issues listed above in your Bedford, TX home, you should call Tioga Contractors immediately. Tioga is a family-owned business that has been serving homeowners and business owners in the Bedford, TX area since 1953. All of our electricians are licensed and insured and highly trained in electrical work. We understand that electrical issues can arise at any time of the day or night; therefore, we offer emergency service. We will have an electrician on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week, ready to address your electrical issue. Because electricity is incredibly dangerous, you don’t want to wait if you are having a problem. To schedule an appointment with our electrician, give us a call today.