Unveiling the Truth: Does Owning an Electric Car Impact Your Electric Bill?

As electric vehicles (EVs) gain popularity, a common question arises: how does owning an electric car affect your monthly electric bill? Professional Electric, with their expertise in residential electrical services and energy-efficient solutions, is here to help unravel this electrifying query.

Understanding the Dynamics

Transitioning to an EV is a shift in both transportation and energy consumption. EVs depend on electricity, leading to queries about increased household electricity usage.

The Impact on Your Electric Bill

The effect of an EV on your electric bill isn’t as significant as it might seem. It varies based on:

  • Charging Frequency: The frequency and timing of your EV charging affect your bill. Charging during off-peak hours can reduce costs. Consider installing a home charging station for efficient charging.
  • Battery Capacity: Larger batteries consume more energy but also offer longer ranges.
  • Electricity Rates: These rates vary by region. Some areas offer incentives for EV owners, making charging more affordable.
  • Charging Infrastructure: Efficient home charging stations can influence your electric bill.

Calculating the Impact

To estimate the impact on your bill:

  • Determine Energy Consumption: Multiply your EV’s energy consumption rate (in kWh per mile) by your monthly mileage.
  • Electricity Costs: Multiply the additional consumption by your local electricity rate.

Offsetting Costs

Owning an EV isn’t just about added expenses. Consider:

  • Home Solar Panels: Generating your electricity, perhaps through solar panel installation, can drastically reduce charging costs.
  • Time-of-Use Plans: Lower rates during off-peak hours can reduce charging costs.
  • Public Charging Stations: These can decrease reliance on home charging.

The Verdict

While owning an EV does impact your electric bill, the extent depends on various factors. Strategic charging, efficient infrastructure and renewable energy sources can minimize or offset this impact.

Considering an EV? Embrace this sustainable shift. The impact on your electric bill can be managed, and the benefits of cleaner, greener transportation are undeniable.

Explore the world of EVs and sustainable energy with Professional Electric. Whether you’re looking for commercial electrical solutions or insights on energy-efficient lighting, we have the expertise to assist. Visit Professional Electric’s blog for more insights into embracing a sustainable future.

Understanding the Power Needs of Your Home During a Blackout

With hurricane season in full swing, blackouts are an inevitable challenge that many homeowners face. While the inconvenience of losing power for a short period might be manageable, extended blackouts can disrupt your life significantly. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the power needs of your home during a blackout. In this post, we’ll guide you through the key factors to consider.

Assess the Essentials

Start by assessing what you consider essential in your home. For most people, this would include lighting, refrigeration, and the ability to charge mobile devices. Depending on your situation, you might also require power for medical equipment, heating or cooling systems or a home office. Make a list of these essentials to determine the minimum power supply needed during a blackout.

Calculate the Load

After identifying the essentials, you’ll need to calculate the total electrical load. This is usually measured in watts. Check the wattage information on the labels of each appliance or device. Add these numbers together to get an idea of your total electrical load. Remember, this is a rough estimate; the actual power consumption can vary based on usage patterns and efficiency.

Choose the Right Generator

Armed with your total load estimate, you can now choose an appropriate generator. Generators are categorized based on their output, typically expressed in kilowatts (kW). It’s advisable to go for a generator that can produce 20-25% more power than your estimated requirement. This extra capacity will accommodate any additional load and ensure the generator operates efficiently.

Consider Fuel Efficiency

Generators run on various types of fuel, including gasoline, diesel and propane. The choice of fuel can affect the operational cost and how long the generator can run without refueling. Opt for a fuel-efficient model that provides a longer runtime, especially if you live in an area prone to extended blackouts.

Plan for Installation

Installation is not just about plugging in your generator; it’s about setting it up to meet your specific needs. If you’re not an electrically savvy homeowner, consider hiring a professional electrician for a safe and compliant installation. Many generators can be integrated with your home’s electrical system via a transfer switch, allowing for a smoother transition when the power goes out.

Test Regularly

Once your generator is set up, regular testing is crucial to ensure it’s in optimal condition. Make it a habit to run your generator at least once a month. This not only assures you that it’s in working condition but also allows you to become familiar with its operation, so you’re not fumbling in the dark when you need it the most.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for a blackout involves more than just keeping a few candles and flashlights handy. By assessing your essential power needs, calculating your home’s electrical load and selecting the right generator, you can be well-equipped to handle any power outage. Remember, a smooth installation and regular testing can go a long way in ensuring your generator is ready when you need it. When it comes to the complexities of electrical setups, consulting with professionals like us at Professional Electric can provide invaluable insights and help you set up a reliable backup power system tailored to your needs. Stay empowered and stay safe this hurricane season.

Powering Through Storms: The Ultimate Guide to Generators by Professional Electric

In the face of uncertainty, a generator stands as a beacon of stability. It’s not just a machine; it’s your fortress of comfort and security during storms, hurricanes and power outages. At Professional Electric, we comprehend the transformative power of generators, and we’re dedicated to guiding you through the installation, repair and maintenance processes to ensure uninterrupted power supply, especially during the most challenging times.

The Role of Generators: Transforming Energy into Assurance

A generator serves as the bridge between external energy and electrical power, an essential lifeline when nature unleashes its fury. When the lights go out, a generator steps in to ensure your home or business remains illuminated, connected and functional. It’s the guardian that prevents disruption and ensures the normalcy you deserve, especially in the aftermath of hurricanes and severe storms.

Why Choose Professional Electric for Your Generator Needs?

  • Expertise That Empowers: Our seasoned experts are equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle every aspect of generator services. From meticulous installation to precise repairs and regular maintenance, we ensure your generator operates seamlessly when you need it the most.
  • Benefits Beyond Electricity: Beyond the immediate power supply, generators offer an array of benefits. They instill a sense of security, eliminating worries about prolonged outages. A well-maintained generator guarantees a reliable energy source, often boasting a remarkable lifespan that proves its worth over time.

Harness the Power of Financial Flexibility

Investing in a generator doesn’t just fortify your home; it secures your peace of mind. At Professional Electric, we recognize the importance of accessible solutions. Our financing options pave the way for you to embrace this crucial step toward preparedness. Your generator becomes more than just a machine; it’s a strategic investment in the safety and comfort of your loved ones.

Why Wait? Your Generator Awaits

In a world where uncertainty can strike at any moment, having a generator is more than a luxury—it’s a necessity. Our team at Professional Electric is committed to empowering you with the knowledge, tools and support needed to make the best choice for your power needs. From installation to upkeep, we stand by your side, ensuring your generator functions flawlessly, no matter the weather.

Let us help you take control of your energy future. Contact Professional Electric today to explore how a generator can become your guardian against the storm of uncertainty, especially during hurricane season. Your comfort and security deserve nothing less.

Pool Grounding for Maximum Safety and Enjoyment

Electrical grounding is an essential safety measure when it comes to installing pools. At Professional Electric, we prioritize your family’s safety by providing professional pool grounding services. While pool safety typically brings to mind non-skid decks, fences and pool covers, the bonding and grounding of your pool’s electrical system are equally crucial for ensuring a safe environment.

Your pool uses electricity to power vital equipment such as pumps, lights and heaters. Without electricity, the pool pump won’t function, leaving the water stagnant and unfiltered. The absence of pool lights eliminates the possibility of nighttime swims. Moreover, the pool heater requires electricity to maintain a comfortable water temperature. The proper electrical connection ensures the smooth operation of these essential components. An improperly set up electrical system may expose swimmers to a small amount of electricity, posing potential risks to occupants in the future.

While most individuals may not fully grasp the complexity of a pool’s electrical system, our team at Professional Electric possesses the necessary expertise. We are dedicated to prioritizing your pool’s electrical safety to ensure you can enjoy it without any worries.

Understanding Grounding

To comprehend the concept of electrical grounding, it’s important to grasp some basics of electricity. Electrical currents consist of negatively charged electrons that flow towards materials to balance out with a positive charge. This flow generates the electricity that powers your home and pool. Normally, electrons flow from a charged wire to a neutral one. However, if a wire is damaged, it can create a short circuit, diverting electricity down unintended paths. Grounding resolves this issue.

Pool grounding involves connecting bonded pool components to the earth. The objective is to direct and dissipate harmful electrical currents away from pool equipment, pets and people, maximizing safety. By establishing a connection between the pool’s electrical network, the electrical panel and the earth, excess electricity can be effectively dissipated. Without a proper grounding system, swimmers and pool equipment may inadvertently become conductors, risking harm to individuals and damage to your pool equipment.

Professional Electric’s Commitment to Safety

At Professional Electric, our licensed electricians are dedicated to ensuring your safety and enabling you to enjoy your pool fully. We collaborate closely with your pool installers to ensure correct pool grounding, eliminating the risk of serious injuries. Whether you require pool grounding services, inspections or have inquiries regarding pool grounding, our team is here to assist you. Your safety is our top priority, and we take our responsibility seriously.

Contact Professional Electric today to work with us for your pool grounding needs. We are committed to safeguarding you and your loved ones from potential electrical hazards.

Generators and Hurricane Season on the Gulf Coast: A Lifesaver with Professional Electric

The hurricane season in the Gulf Coast region, typically lasting from June to November, poses significant challenges to residents, including potential power outages. As the storms roar in, often causing extensive damage to power lines, having a reliable source of backup power can be a real lifesaver. That’s where generators, expertly installed and maintained by Professional Electric, come in.

A generator is not a luxury in this part of the country; it is a necessity. It powers essential appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, heaters and medical equipment during power outages, ensuring you can maintain a semblance of normalcy during a storm.

At Professional Electric, we understand the vital role that generators play during hurricane season. Here’s how we can help Gulf Coast residents stay prepared:

Professional Installation

A generator is only as reliable as its installation. At Professional Electric, we offer expert installation services to ensure that your generator functions optimally when you need it the most. Our experienced technicians are well-versed in installing different types of generators, always adhering to the highest safety standards.

Maintenance and Repairs

Routine maintenance is essential to ensure your generator is in top condition and ready for action when a storm hits. Our team can perform regular checks and maintenance tasks, such as oil changes and battery tests. We also provide prompt repair services to fix any issues that may prevent your generator from functioning correctly.

Consultation and Selection

Not sure what type of generator you need? We can help. Based on the size of your home and your power needs, our experts can advise you on the best generator for you. We are well-acquainted with a range of brands and models, enabling us to provide you with an informed recommendation.

Safety First

While generators are highly useful during hurricane season, they can pose safety risks if used incorrectly. As a part of our service, we provide our clients with essential safety information to ensure they can operate their generators safely.

Beyond providing these vital services, Professional Electric is a part of the Gulf Coast community. We understand the unique challenges our region faces and are committed to helping our neighbors weather any storm. Our team is always ready to respond when disaster strikes, ensuring you have the power you need to keep your family safe and comfortable.

To conclude, having a well-maintained generator during the Gulf Coast’s hurricane season is essential. With Professional Electric’s expert services, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are prepared for whatever the season may bring. Contact us today to learn more about our generator installation and maintenance services.

How to prepare my electrical for hurricane season?

Hurricane season is a time of the year that can bring anxiety and stress to homeowners. Preparing your home for an impending hurricane is essential to ensure you and your family remain safe during and after the storm. One important aspect of hurricane preparedness is ensuring that your electrical system is ready to handle the impact of a storm. In this blog post, we will discuss how to prepare your electrical system for hurricane season and why it is crucial to work with a professional electrician like Professional Electric.

The first step in preparing your electrical system for hurricane season is to ensure that your generator is in good working order. A generator is an essential component of your electrical system during a power outage caused by a hurricane. Without a working generator, you could be left without power for an extended period, which can be dangerous and uncomfortable. At Professional Electric, we offer generator installation and maintenance services to ensure that your generator is ready when you need it most.

Another important step in hurricane preparedness is to inspect your electrical system for any damage or wear and tear. Any damaged electrical components can be a safety hazard during a storm, and it’s important to address them before the hurricane season begins. At Professional Electric, we offer electrical inspections to identify any issues and make necessary repairs before the storm hits.

It’s also essential to ensure that your electrical panel is up to date and can handle the load of your electrical system. An outdated or overloaded electrical panel can be a significant safety hazard during a hurricane, and it’s crucial to work with a professional electrician to ensure it functions correctly. Our team at Professional Electric can evaluate your electrical panel and recommend any necessary upgrades or repairs to ensure that it is safe and reliable.

One crucial aspect of hurricane preparedness is ensuring your electrical system is grounded correctly. Proper grounding ensures that any electrical surges or power outages caused by the hurricane do not cause damage to your appliances or electronics. At Professional Electric, we offer grounding services to ensure that your electrical system is safe and secure.

Finally, it’s crucial to have an emergency plan in place in case of a power outage caused by a hurricane. Make sure that you have a supply of flashlights, batteries and other emergency supplies in case you lose power during the storm. It’s also a good idea to have the contact information for a professional electrician like Professional Electric on hand in case you need emergency electrical services.

In conclusion, hurricane season can be a stressful time for homeowners, but preparing your electrical system can help ease your worries. At Professional Electric, we offer a range of services to ensure that your electrical system is ready to handle the impact of a hurricane. From generator installation and maintenance to electrical inspections and repairs, our team is here to help you prepare for the storm. Don’t wait until it’s too late – call Professional Electric today to schedule an appointment and ensure your electrical system is ready for hurricane season.

Why an Ungrounded Pool is Unsafe

Today, we’re going to talk about the importance of having a grounded pool in your backyard instead of an ungrounded pool. It’s an important safety feature for any pool owner, but it’s especially important if you have kids or pets that like to swim in your pool. That’s because grounding creates a pathway back to the earth that allows stray electricity to be carried away safely, so no one gets shocked while they’re swimming.

In this blog, our team of professional electricians will explain why grounding is such an important part of aquatic safety and how it works alongside other safety features like GFCIs (ground fault circuit interrupters) and metal ladders on pools!

Having a grounded pool is a safety feature to help prevent electrocutions, especially for those who have kids or pets.

Electrocution is the leading cause of accidental death in the United States. Electrocutions are a common cause of accidental death by drowning. Any time you’re near water and electricity, you run the risk of getting shocked by both. Grounding ensures that if something happens to your pool’s wiring system, it won’t send dangerous electrical currents into the water—potentially killing anyone who happens to be swimming at the time.

Electric shock drownings occur when a person comes into contact with an electrical current in the water and is unable to swim away.

These accidental electrocutions can happen when a person is in the water and a stray current is present, either from a faulty pool light or another safety device. Grounding devices are an effective way to prevent this kind of accident from occurring, because they provide an alternative path for electricity to travel safely into the ground if it finds its way into your pool. 

Grounding your pool also helps prevent drowning accidents by creating an electric barrier around your pool. This barrier prevents children from wandering out onto wet concrete surfaces after swimming, or wading in shallow water without shoes on (which makes them more likely to slip). Children who fall into deep water often panic when their feet touch something that feels like concrete instead of sand or soil underneath them—making it difficult for anyone else around at the time to help pull them back up onto solid footing again.

If you’re worried about the cost of having a grounded pool, there are ways to save money. You can install it yourself or use the services of an electrician to help out with the wiring and installation process. In any event, grounding is an essential safety feature for your pool and should not be overlooked.

Whether you have more questions about grounded pools, or you need assistance with your home’s wiring system, the experts at Professional Electric have you covered! Visit https://proelectricusa.com/ to learn more.

How to Tell if Your Pool Isn’t Grounded

Everyone enjoys spending time in the pool, especially during these hot summer days in the south. Owning a pool comes with its fair share of maintenance, however, but nothing is more important than making sure your pool is a safe place for you and your family to spend some time. Whether you’re planning on building a pool, having one built, or you’re just curious about your existing pool, it is essential that you know whether or not your pool is properly grounded.

What is Grounding?

When a pool is built, there are a number of different wires, electrical components and equipment involved. Anytime you are dealing with an electrical system near water, it is vital that everything is properly grounded, but what does that mean? Grounding refers to the process of transferring electricity in the safest way from an object back to the ground. This provides a pathway that is typically only used in instances where there is an issue with the main wiring system. Making sure everything is grounded assures that there is no risk or electrocution, should anything go wrong.

Is My Pool Grounded?

Making sure your pool is grounded is one of the most important things you can do when you have a pool built or are inspecting an existing pool. If your pool is not properly grounded, there is a large risk of electrocution; this is because those swimming in the pool could unknowingly become the conductor. In order to dissipate excess electricity, every pool’s electrical system must include a connection of copper wiring. Everything from the pool walls, filtration and water pump systems, posts and other metal parts should be properly bonded. A successfully bonded pool will include the connection of all these parts with a copper wire in order to equalize any differences in voltage and prevent the flow of unwanted electricity to hazardous areas.

Things to Look Out For

When checking if your pool is properly grounded, you should make sure that every fixed metal part of your pool is bonded. Make sure that any metal piping and awnings, fences, doors, cables, raceways and window frames are not at risk of becoming conductive. While checking for proper bonding is essential, it is also important to note that a pair of experienced eyes will guarantee that nothing goes unnoticed. 

At Professional Electric, our goal is to keep you and your loved ones safe. Dealing with electricity is a tricky and dangerous task, so it is important that you hire a professional to get the job done effectively. If you are curious about whether or not your pool is properly grounded, or you are planning to install a pool, give us a call today! (251) 313-5619 We are more than happy to help assess your situation and make sure your family is safe.

Lighting Ideas for Your Backyard

Spending more time outdoors is something that many of us strive for. Breathing in the fresh air, enjoying some sun and getting in touch with nature are healthy and uplifting ways to spend your time. This summer, you may have plans to work on your yard. If you’re interested in finding ways to liven up your space, proper lighting is essential. For those nights when you want to relax on your deck, sit by the pool or just enjoy the evening air, you need a space that is well-lit. 

If you’re looking for ideas on how to go about brightening up your outdoor space, we’re here to help!

Patio Lighting

A common option for lighting your backyard space is to include lights on and around your patio. You can get creative with this: layer lights to add dimension, use decorative lanterns, experiment with color-changing bulbs or decide to string lights overhead. The options are endless!

Fence Lights

For a practical approach to lighting, consider using lights to illuminate your property’s fencing. Add lighting on top of your fence or around the base to identify the barrier around your yard and brighten up the perimeter.

Brighten Up Trees

For a unique lighting approach, adding lights on or around your trees is a great place to start. Place lights around the base of the tree or add hanging lights from branches. Another great option is to wrap string lights around or through the branches of trees to add a dreamy look to any space.

Pathway Lighting

Adding lighting around your pathways is one important idea to look into. Any guests will be glad to know exactly where to walk when they visit your space, and the lighting provides a sense of safety, keeping you from tripping or losing your footing in the dark.

Canopy of Lights

Another unique option for backyard lighting is to create a canopy of lights overhead. Get a string of lights or a net of string lights and have them hung over your seating area for a blanket of lighting above.

Flood Lights

Add a sense of safety to your property by installing flood lights. These lights do just what you might expect! When installed, the lights wash your area with light. This is useful to deter intruders and illuminate those areas that you need to have fully lit, such as entryways, stairs, etc.

If you’re looking into getting backyard lighting installed, or you have questions about how to safely light your home, make sure you give us a call at Professional Electric at (251) 473-5788. We are more than happy to help you create the yard of your dreams!

What if I can’t afford a generator?

As a homeowner, it is essential to have a generator in case the power goes out, especially in the South. Being near the Gulf Coast, we are exposed to hurricanes and tropical storms every year, and it is essential to have a generator for when the power goes out. However, at Professional Electric, we understand that not everyone can purchase a generator. We believe that everyone should be able to afford an electrical backup, which is why we offer generator financing.

You may not realize how much your home and daily life are reliant on energy until you’re in the middle of a power outage! You’ll be able to regulate and protect your home with a whole-house generator installed, even during severe weather. Some of the advantages of installing a generator are as follows:

  • Cooling and heating regularly.
  • Freezers and refrigerators do not thaw.
  • The lights and outlets are in good working order.
  • The security systems are up and running.
  • Garage doors and gates can be opened and closed.

A whole-house generator could be the ideal solution for preparing for extreme temperatures or frigid temperatures. Having an emergency generator will also help you to keep your home’s essential appliances operating, such as lights, refrigerators and even medical equipment. That way, when the electricity is out, your household won’t be left in the dark. Power outages are notorious for being unpredictably timed.

All generators cost differently. Depending on the type of generator you choose, they can range in pricing. The four main types of a generator are gas, liquid propane, natural gas and diesel. You’ll be able to weather any storm with ease if you have a whole-house generator. If you’re ready for dependable power, call Professional Electric now to get started on your whole-house generator financing!