Category: Professional Electric Blog

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.

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!

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!

When buying a home, it’s important to ensure that everything’s working as it should. After all, you’re investing a lot of money into your new home and you want to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. While you probably will have a home inspection done, it’s important to also have an electrical inspection performed to ensure everything’s in tip-top shape. 

Structural surveys are important, but they don’t tell the full story of the house. Typical home inspections don’t cover electrical examinations, and small electrical problems can turn into big ones later that can cost you significantly more money and turn into a headache. Here are some other reasons why you should get an electrical inspection before buying a home.

Check for Outdated Wiring

If you’re buying an older house, you need to have the wiring checked. Older homes might still have their original wiring. Outdated wiring poses a hazard as it cannot handle the electrical power of modern appliances. An inspector can determine if your wiring is outdated and can inform you of any renovation work that has been completed and if it is up to standards. They will also let you know if there are any areas that will need to be improved in the future, and if any need to be taken care of right away. 

Be Aware of Potential Safety Issues

Faulty electrical issues may cause electronics and appliances to blow, and they can also lead to a fire starting. Your outlets need to be tested in order to prevent potential danger whenever appliances are plugged in. You need to be made aware of this as the issue would need to be fixed immediately. These issues can lead to a loss of property, damage to the property, and on occasion, death. There may be hidden problems within your wiring that need to be checked out. Additionally, the previous homeowner might have tried to fix the issue themselves, and you don’t want to have to deal with the after-effects of faulty maintenance. 

Prevent Financial Issues 

If the electrical inspection reveals that there are problems that can be expensive to fix, you, the buyer, can renegotiate the price of the home or even have the seller cover the cost of repairs. Electrical inspections ensure the property is a good investment and is worth purchasing. If not, you can choose to not purchase the house and save yourself future financial burden and debt. 

Insurance Purposes

If you need to file an insurance claim after purchasing the house, you will need to have an inspection from a licensed provider sent to your insurance company. Having an electrical inspection done covers the insurance company and yourself in case any issues arise after purchase. It’s a smart investment and it will cover you in future liability cases.

Electrical inspections are not only a good financial investment, they save lives. Are you searching for a new home? Avoid future safety concerns and the higher costs associated with repairing major problems and schedule an electrical inspection with Professional Electric now. Call us today at (251) 473-5788.

Before understanding why electricity needs to be grounded, it is important to understand how electricity runs throughout your home. There are two types of wires that are needed to complete a circuit to carry electricity. There is a ”hot” wire, which is typically a black wire, that carries a negative charge and there is a “ground” wire, which is usually gray or white, that carries a positive charge. The “ground” wires are connected to your outlets.

What if my “ground” wires are failing?

The electric system is designed to get rid of negative energy into the part of the earth in which your house is built. The ”ground” wires have the job of returning this energy into the ground. The negatively charged wires attract the positive charge, allowing for safe energy flow throughout your home. If your “ground” wires are failing, your electrical system should have a plan to prevent short circuits or electrical fires. Wires, called “grounding” wires, should run parallel to the “hot” and “grounded” wires, as an alternative route for electrical currents.

How do I identify “grounding” wires?

One of the easiest ways to identify “grounding” wires is to look at your outlets. If your outlet has a third, round prong plug-in, it is indicated that you have a system of grounding wires. If most of the outlets in your home do not have the third slot, there is a chance that your electrical system does not have a grounding contact. 

What could happen if my house isn’t properly grounded?

If your home is not grounded, your appliances could pass electricity through your body as a negative charge outlet to the ground, this is the result of electrocution. Electrical fires are another possibility of having a home that is not grounded. Although new codes require household electrical systems to be grounded, older constructed homes may not have been required. One of the most common electrical mistakes is the failure of groundwater lines. This could allow electricity to run through your water pipes. The best way to make sure that you’re home is safely grounded is to have a safety inspection performed on your home. 

What if I need an electrical home safety inspection? 
Schedule your safety inspection with Professional Electric today by calling (251) 473-5788 or online at professionalelectric.biz. We will be glad to help you with any questions or concerns that you may have.

The lighting in our homes can make a significant difference in the overall look and ambiance. More importantly, it can also bring up the value in the home and prevent any safety hazards from occurring due to outdated lighting. Knowing when it’s time to update the lighting in your home can save you time from doing it yourself as well as help save money on your energy bill. 

Flickering lights

You may see flickering lights as a sign of a burnt out or dull bulb. However, flickering lights also indicate a deeper issue with the electrical system. Outdoor landscape lighting, for example, can begin to flicker and cause trouble with even power distribution. This will also cause trouble with being able to see at night and throughout the property. Updating outdoor lighting can fix this issue as the infrastructure is renewed. 

Having two-pronged outlets

Two-pronged outlets are usually seen in older homes. But making the switch to a three-pronged outlet is safer since it prevents electric shock or a fuze. It also ensures there is a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter outlet) in place as it reduces any risks with electrical faults. 

You are using extension cords more often

We all have them laying around our homes: extension cords. While they are known to be useful, they are also known to only work for an extended period of time. Using them too long can eventually lead to a fuze or become a fire hazard. This means you will need to make the upgrade on more outlets for your residential lighting. 

Poor installation 

If there are hanging light fixtures in the home with wires sticking out or overall damaged residential lighting, there is poor installation that requires updated lighting. Each light fixture requires appropriate light fittings,otherwise, short circuits will likely occur. Calling a professional electrician that specializes in residential lighting and installation will ensure that it is done according to code and avoid any violations. 

Sudden blackouts 

Sudden or frequent blackouts are another common sign that residential lighting requires updating. Some residential owners will have a generator at hand that will help alleviate when blackouts occur. It is important to take notice of when they occur and if the surrounding vicinity has the same problem. If you notice that you are the only one experiencing this, it is most likely a broken fuse has taken place only on your property. Not only will the blackout affect the electrical wiring system, but will eventually cause permanent damage.

Does your residential property require updated lighting? We offer electrical services or LED lighting in Baldwin County or Mobile, Alabama, look no further than Professional Electric! Visit us online at www.ProfessionalElectric.biz and connect with us on Facebook and Twitter! We are available 24/7 for emergency services! Call (251) 473-5788 and remember, when it comes to your electrical needs, Keep It Professional!