Electrical Services Archives

Eco-Friendly Electrical Upgrades to Save Energy and Money

Everyone is trying to save money on utilities. It makes sense financially and environmentally. While there may be an initial investment, the long-term benefits far outweigh any installation costs. Here are a few of our favourite electrical upgrades that will save you money and reduce your carbon footprint. CJ Brucacher offers professional residential electrical services to improve your home’s comfort and efficiency.

LED Lighting

LED lighting uses up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent lights. This improved performance saves money by using less energy and lasting longer, so you don’t buy as many lightbulbs. LED lights do not generate heat, putting all of the electricity towards lighting your home. Artwork and interior decorations won’t degrade when exposed to LED lights. LED lights also withstand being turned on and off better than traditional lights. These lights come in a variety of styles, sizes and finishes. You can install LED lights in places where traditional lights won’t fit.

Bathroom Fan Timers

After a bath or shower, the bathroom fan should run for about 20 minutes to reduce condensation and prevent mould and mildew. If you’ve ever gotten out of the shower and gone directly to bed, you might have either left the bathroom fan on all night or turned it off too quickly. Instead of wasting energy or accepting the risk of mould, install a timer on the bathroom fan. There are two types, manual and digital. A manual timer works like an oven timer that winds down and shuts off when the mechanism reaches the end. Digital timers can be set in 5- or 10-minute intervals. Manual timers are certainly less expensive, but smart digital timers can be controlled by your phone or other device. Depending on the level of installation, you may be able to simply plug the timer into your current system or you may want a professional electrician.

Dimmer Switches

If you enjoy mood lighting, you may already have dimmer switches in your home. Dimmer switches let you change the intensity of light from one bulb or even multiple. Modern dimmer switches go well beyond mood lighting though. These switches are energy efficient. Reducing the light in one bulb can save up to 98%. You can also create an ambience that suits your mood. Incorporating dimmer switches into your system can increase the longevity of your lights, both regular and LED.

Why You Should Use Professional Electrical Services

Many homeowners try to save money by DIYing some projects. Residential and commercial electrical services require a level of skill that many homeowners don’t have. Electricians have licenses, insurance and certifications that prove they understand how to get the job done safely and effectively. Here are three other reasons you should always contact a professional electrician when you need home repairs or upgrades:

Electricians have the tools and equipment to install electrical components. This, combined with their knowledge and experience makes sure that anything you change to your electrical system is done right and won’t cause problems down the road.
Electricians make sure your home is up to code. Electrical components are required to comply with electrical codes in your community. A professional electrician knows the codes and meets requirements, keeping your home safe.
Professional electricians give you peace of mind. When electrical components aren’t wired correctly, there’s a bigger risk of fire and other dangers to your home. When you hire a professional, you won’t have to worry about the risks of not having the work done right. It just makes sense to have a professional do the work for your security and comfort. Contact CJ Brubacher for electrical services in Waterloo.

4 Signs You Need an Electrician Right Away in Kitchener

If you suspect there is a problem with your home’s electrical system, you need to contact a professional skilled in electrical services in Kitchener right away. Electrical problems can lead to issues with your lights, appliances and electrical fires. Attempting to fix an electrical problem yourself could lead to even more damage or danger to your safety or your property. At CJ Brubacher, we can help solve your electrical problems quickly. Here are four signs you need to call us right away.

1. Flickering Lights

A common sign that there is a problem in your electrical work is if your lights flicker. If you have light fixtures that consistently flicker, there may be a problem with your wiring. It’s also problematic if your lights flicker when you use appliances, hair dryers or your air conditioner. When lights are flickering, there may be loose wires, a short or something loose in the fixture. An electrician can check out your lights and electrical panel to determine the following steps to fix the issue.

2. Electrical Shocks

The next big clue that there is something wrong with your electrical system is if you experience electrical shocks. If you feel an electrical shock when you plug something into one of your outlets, that could indicate a problem. An electrician can determine the cause of the electrical shock and remedy the situation.

When this problem occurs, it may be due to an unstable electrical circuit, damage in your circuit or problems with the power cord for your appliance. Ignoring this issue could create a fire hazard in your home. If you ever experience a powerful electrical shock after plugging something in, you may need to seek medical attention or you may need to call 911.

3. Burning Smell

Another dangerous sign of a problem with your home’s electrical system is a burning smell. If you notice a strange odour in your home, it’s essential to get it checked out immediately. A smoky smell may be indicative of a wiring issue that could quickly turn into a fire. Make sure you call a professional with expertise in residential electrical services so the power can be turned off in your home to avoid a potential fire hazard.

A burning smell may be due to a variety of factors. You may have loose or frayed electrical wires that are starting to melt or burn. It could also be from an overloaded circuit that can’t handle your home’s power needs.

4. Buzzing Sound

Finally, in addition to paying attention to the smells in your home, you also want to listen carefully for any unusual sounds that may be associated with electrical wiring failures. If you hear buzzing in your walls, that may be related to an electrical system problem and needs to be looked at immediately.

An electrical buzzing sound may be due to problems with your wiring. It could also be from outlet failures or your wall switches malfunctioning. A licensed electrician can check out the noise and help you with the next steps.

Professional Electrical Services in Kitchener

Homeowners should never wait around or delay service if there is a potential electrical system fault. The average DIYer is not knowledgeable or skilled enough to fix electrical wiring or outlet damage issues. To avoid injuring yourself or causing significant damage to your home, reach out to a professional, licensed electrician to determine the cause of your issue and get it fixed safely and quickly.

Connect with CJ Brubacher for your residential electrical system needs. We provide immediate emergency services for potentially dangerous situations. We can also help with electrical panel upgrades, light fixtures and outlet installations and maintenance of your entire system.

Waterloo Electrician: Commmon Workplace Electrical Problems

Many commercial properties have an onsite maintenance staff. While a trained staff can handle many common issues, only licensed electrical services in Waterloo should inspect or correct electrical systems.

Too many people make the mistake of assuming building wiring is straightforward when it is a complex and potentially dangerous interconnection of circuits. Through the years, codes change and technology develops, resulting in many companies operating with a mix of old and new wiring, which can present challenges and risks to inexperienced, well-meaning onsite staff. Even common problems can become significant risks if a person is not a professional.

Therefore, while the onsite staff is qualified for various tasks, they cannot and should not interfere with a property’s wiring or electrical systems. A licensed electrician is the only professional qualified to handle common and complex electrical system problems.

Understanding 3 Common Electrical Problems

Do not assume that because an electrical issue is common that it is safe for unqualified individuals to correct it. Even the most common problems can have disastrous outcomes when mishandled, such as electrical fires. That said, many commercial facilities experience a few of the same issues, and they should understand those issues, but only to recognize when a professional is necessary.

1. Old Wiring

Commercial facilities may have old wiring stretched throughout the property and connected to newer outlets or circuits. The older wiring is more prone to damage from electrical surges or overloaded circuits. Also, mixing and matching electrical components is never a good idea.

A professional electrician can help companies review their systems and suggest necessary upgrades. Sometimes upgrades are required to meet existing building and safety codes. Businesses must remain compliant with current regulations to maintain operational licenses and insurance.

2. Flickering Lights

Commercial and residential electrical services often assist property owners with flickering lights. Business lights might flicker for many reasons, but the most common are loose connections.

However, flickering lights can also occur because of overloaded circuits or faulty wiring. Each potential issue comes with an escalated sense of urgency.

As much as companies want to save money and subvert certain operational expenses, it is never wise to neglect electrical issues. Contact a licensed electrician to diagnose and resolve flickering lights or other lighting problems.

3. Sparks

Sparks can happen even with healthy electrical systems, but they should not remain persistent. Most sparks will occur around outlets, which often indicates an upgrade is necessary. However, if sparks happen often or employees notice outlets heating up, it is crucial to react. Employers or maintenance staff should cut the main power immediately.

Continuous or frequent sparks and heating outlets represent a significant concern. Fire risks are possible in these situations. Therefore, it is crucial that property owners call a licensed electrical service.

Hiring a Professional To Intervene

Licensed electricians are the only qualified professionals who can work on a building’s electrical systems. They understand building and safety codes and know how to perform electrical work safely.

While onsite maintenance can handle more minor issues, such as swapping out an outlet or replacing a fuse, any situations that require investigating entire systems or wiring require a professional. The risk of electrocution is too great for a novice to attempt system repairs. Also, working with unlicensed repair persons risks the safety of all employees and the business.

Licensed services and technicians have the training and experience to correct various issues, from the common to the complex. If you notice any electrical problems in your building, contact CJ Brubacher Ltd. immediately. The company will send a licensed professional to assess the building’s systems and resolve any existing issues. The technician may also suggest necessary upgrades to ensure the property meets current codes and regulations.

Kitchener Electrical Repair: Why Outlets Spark

Having an outlet that sparks when you use it can be alarming. When you have electrical trouble, you need expert service that you can trust to do the job right the first time and for less. We are CJ Brubacher Ltd., and we specialize in electrical services in Kitchener, Ontario and the surrounding areas. As experts in our field since 1923, we frequently receive questions about sparking outlets.

There are several reasons why an outlet may spark. Some are cause for concern and should be dealt with right away, while others may not warrant worry. To help you identify the nature of your situation, let’s take a look at eight potential reasons for your outlet trouble.

1. The Wiring Is Loose or Frayed

While it may not be visibly noticeable, if the outlet’s wiring is loose or frayed, it can produce a sizzling sound when you use it. Common causes for loose or frayed wiring include improper installation, age and rodent damage.

2. The Wires are Short-Circuiting

If an outlet produces too much heat, it can cause the wire casing to melt, leaving wires exposed and dangerous. This issue needs to be addressed to prevent an electrical fire.

3. It’s Old

Time is not kind to electrical systems. If your home is older, its wiring probably has not been updated. Older wiring can wear out, leading to the issues mentioned above. Depending on the age of your electrical wiring, you may be due for a rewiring.

4. Improper Repairs Were Made

Unfortunately, unless you are the only one who has ever owned your home, it is hard to know the level of experience with which electrical repairs were made. If repairs were improperly made, this can lead to dangerous outlet sparking and a host of other electrical concerns.

5. The Outlet Is Overloaded

You may have too many things plugged into the same outlet. It is never advisable to use multiple outlet extensions, as doing so can overload the electrical outlet and cause issues, and sparking is one of them.

6. The Plastic Is Damaged

An often overlooked source of sparking, damaged outlet plastic can expose the inner workings and contact points of the outlet and lead to sparking. If your outlet looks a little worse for wear, it may be time to get it replaced to prevent fire damage.

7. Water Has Reached the Outlet

Often, outlets are placed too close to sinks. If the outlet comes into contact with water, sparks may result. Additionally, if you’ve recently had a plumbing leak, water may be interfering with the wiring in the vicinity. A professional needs to take a look if you believe water damage may be to blame for your outlet sparking.

8. It May Just Be Normal

Because electricity flows quickly, it can sometimes jump around too fast when you plug something in. If your outlet produces a blue spark when you use it, but it does not regularly spark, it is most likely just a normal occurrence. If you are unsure, reach out to schedule an appointment to have one of our electricians take a look.

If you have one or multiple sparking outlets that are causing concern, give us a call right away. Our technicians can accurately diagnose the problem and get you quickly on your way to a safe and functional home. No matter what the source of your sparking outlet may be, you can trust CJ Brubacher Ltd. to put your mind at ease.

You can reach our service team by phone or fill out our online contact form. No matter which method of contact you prefer, you will receive friendly, knowledgeable assistance from our professional team. Your safety and comfort are our priority and we look forward to serving you with our top-notch residential electrical services!

Why Surge Protectors Are Important in Any Waterloo Home

Compared to just a few decades ago, today’s homes look like high-tech command centers. Chances are your kitchen, family room, and home office each contain more electronic gadgets than entire houses did when you were growing up.

All that equipment represents a sizable investment, so protecting your electronics is paramount. That’s where adding surge protectors in every room or to your whole house comes in. Read on to learn about the importance of these devices, and how the electrical services in Waterloo that CJ Brubacher LTD. provide are there to ensure your electronics and your home are safe from harm.

Understanding Surge Protectors

Electronics require a consistent amount of energy to operate correctly. Spikes in energy caused by anything from lightning strikes to faulty wiring to equipment malfunctions are dangerous for most devices. The ensuing damage to internal batteries or circuit boards may render electronics unusable.

Many people confuse power strips and surge protectors, but the two are not interchangeable. Some power strips simply act as additional outlets or extensions and don’t provide any protection from electricity spikes. Don’t assume that the power strips you’re using combat surges unless they specifically refer to suppression or protection when you take a close look at them.

How Surge Protectors Preserve Your Tech

By plugging your items into a surge protector rather than directly into a wall socket, you ensure that excess electricity is diverted away from your device before damage results. That’s why it’s important to route all power cords belonging to expensive tech devices through a protector.

Be aware, however, that using a surge protector isn’t a “set it and forget it” cure-all. They are subject to wear out over time, so periodically check the indicator light on all of your protectors to be sure they’re still working properly.

How Surge Protection Saves You Money

Using surge protectors is a clear case of spending a little to potentially save a lot. Compared to the cost of replacing fried televisions and computers, the amount of money you’ll shell out for a few quality protectors is negligible. Think of it as purchasing an insurance policy for your important devices.

Why Every Home Needs Protection

It’s not just your devices that can incur serious problems due to energy spikes. Sadly, overheated electronic equipment may catch fire, causing danger and damage to more than just the affected items. That’s why using surge protectors is an important safety measure for every homeowner. As troubling as burning out your entertainment system due to electricity spikes would be, losing your home and imperilling your loved ones would be devastating.

For many homeowners, investing in a whole-house surge protector is a wise investment. Although it requires professional installation and is more expensive than picking up a few socket-based protectors, the enhanced security against spikes is well worth it. Call an expert from CJ Brubacher to evaluate your home and your needs, as some houses may need more than one protector to cover every area.

Contact CJ Brubacher, Ltd for the Right Protection

Because protecting your electronics, your home, and your family is paramount, always hire top professionals in residential electrical services like CJ Brubacher to ensure you’re working with the best. With our A+ Better Business Bureau rating and almost 100 years of experience, you can count on CJ Brubacher Ltd. to handle all of your electrical, plumbing, and HVAC needs.

Give us a call or fill out our online contact form today. The sooner you connect with our expert team, the sooner you’ll have the peace of mind that comes from knowing your home is protected from dangerous electrical surges.

Kitchener Electrical Services: Benefits of a Ceiling Fan This Summer

If you’re looking for a smarter way to cool your home this summer, consider mounting ceiling fans in the rooms in which you spend the most time. They’ll boost your comfort while doing less damage to your pocketbook and to the environment.

Here we’ll talk about just a few of the benefits of adding fans to your home. Then when you’re ready to play it cool by installing ceiling fans, contact an expert in electrical services in Kitchener like CJ Brubacher to review your options.

Lower Your Energy Bills

It’s a good thing that vacation time comes in the summer since you’ll need some major relaxation after seeing your first electric bill of the season! Each time you crank up the air conditioning, it sends your monthly charges soaring higher than the temperature. Fortunately, installing ceiling fans is a low-cost way to reduce your electricity bills.

Because overhead fans boost air circulation, they do a great job of moving conditioned air around your living spaces. With ceiling fans, your bedrooms, dining room, and family areas feel more comfortable even when you run your AC less.

By improving airflow with ceiling fans, your air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard to cool down your rooms. You’ll save money by raising your thermostats a few degrees so your unit turns on less often, yet you’ll feel no noticeable warming. Top-quality ceiling fans draw little more energy than it takes to run a light bulb, so adding them to your home won’t cut into the savings you gain by operating your air conditioner less.

Stay Cooler

In addition to improving cold air circulation, ceiling fans make you feel cooler even when you’re not running the AC at all. This sensation isn’t just wishful thinking but rather the impact of wind chill, which is the cooling effect created by wind blowing over a surface.

In a room with a ceiling fan, perspiration and body heat are blown away from your skin by the spinning blades, making you feel colder than the air around you. You can even open a window and enjoy some fresh air, knowing that the hot outdoor air will feel cooler to everyone in the room when you’re running a fan overhead.

Help the Environment

Although modern air conditioners are more energy-efficient and emit fewer pollutants, they still have a negative impact on the environment any time they’re operating. Adding ceiling fans reduces your reliance on your AC units, allowing you to run them less frequently without sacrificing comfort.

Because of the wind chill effect, a ceiling fan shifts the focus from cooling a room to cooling the people in it. There’s no need to run your AC in an empty room so it’s comfortable when you want to spend time in it; instead, you can be kind to the environment by switching your thermostat and your ceiling fan on only when you’re ready to settle in.

CJ Brubacher Is Here To Help

Now that you know some of the benefits of installing ceiling fans in your home, it’s time to start feeling cooler and saving money and Mother Nature in the process. Work with an experienced residential electrical services team like the folks at CJ Brubacher Ltd. to select the best ceiling fan models and placement for maximum impact.

Call us at CJ Brubacher for any of your electrical, HVAC, or plumbing needs. We’ve been helping families and business owners in Kitchener, Elmira, and Waterloo for nearly 100 years, and our A+ Better Business Bureau rating reflects our commitment to customer satisfaction. Schedule an appointment today and enjoy a cooler home this summer!

Elmira Electrical Services: Common Problems With Light Switches

It’s easy to take your home for granted. Take the light switches on the walls of your home. If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t give them a second thought until the light doesn’t work. Probably nine times out of ten, when the light doesn’t come on, it’s because the bulb had an issue. It’s that other time that might be the problem.

A malfunctioning light switch is often due to an electrical issue, which is one of the most common reasons for home fires. When a light switch isn’t working, don’t panic. Troubleshoot the problem and make repairs. Contact a professional electrician for residential electrical services to make sure the problem is repaired correctly.

Flickering Lights

A flickering light can be an electrical issue, but it can also mean that the bulb is loose or going bad. Try tightening the light bulb. If that doesn’t fix the issue, it’s likely that there is a loose wire somewhere in the system. If possible, plug the lamp into a different socket to see if there is a problem with the lamp or in the wiring.

Sparks

It can be disconcerting to see sparks when you turn off the light, but it’s actually a normal thing in electrical currents when the contacts move apart. When the spark is large or loud, or both, it’s time to be concerned. Generally speaking, you probably have a short or other problem in the switch. If you smell or see smoke, you should keep the switch off until this issue can be addressed.

Noise

Normally, you shouldn’t hear any noise coming from your light switch. Dimming switches can buzz when the filament in the bulbs vibrate. If you hear any sizzling or popping sounds from the switch, turn it off and get it checked out. It’s probably something simple, a bad switch or loose wire, but it can cause a fire when left unchecked.

Heat

Light switches should not be warm, but some dimmer switches may feel warmer than regular ones because of the way they dissipate heat. When the light switch gets warm, it means that the electricity isn’t circulating correctly. Again, turn the switch off to get the problem checked out. It’s a fire hazard that could be problematic.

The Light Switch Doesn’t Come On

If you aren’t getting any light after checking the bulb, check the breaker. It’s possible that the circuit was tripped for some reason. There’s no need to panic if the breaker tripped once, but you may want to get it checked out. If the breaker hasn’t tripped, then it could be mechanical issues in the switch. If there is a delay in the light coming on when you turn the switch, it probably means that the switch is wearing out and needs replacing.

Safety When Dealing With Electrical Issues

Many homeowners can deal with simple electrical issues, but it’s important to have the right tools at your disposal. You’ll want a circuit tester, electrical tape, flathead and Philips screwdrivers, and needle-nose pliers. Take precautions by turning off circuits to the switch. Use protective goggles to protect your eyes. If you aren’t confident in your skills when dealing with electrical issues, schedule an appointment with CJ Brubacher Ltd. for electrical services in Elmira. Our electricians are licensed and insured to handle big and small jobs of all types. We keep your home well-maintained and functional for your family. We offer a free quote so there are no surprises when the job is complete. Think of CJ Brubacher for plumbing services, HVAC repair and more. We’ll come to your home and we even offer 24/7 emergency services.

Category: Electrical Services