Electric Vehicle Charger Information for your home

What You Need To Know About Home Electric Vehicle Chargers

Once only a prop in science fiction movies, electric cars have driven off the big screen and straight into the garages of everyday people. The current government has put forth a 2035 deadline for all new cars for sale in Canada to run on electricity rather than gasoline, this type of vehicle will only become more and more common on our roads.

What was once a rare customer request—installing home electric vehicle chargers—is now routine for the team at CJ Brubacher’s electrical services in Waterloo. If you are considering making the switch to an electric vehicle, here are a few things to consider about how you will charge it safely in your home.

Things To Know Before Requesting Electrical Services

The array of electric vehicles on the market vary not just in size and style, but also in the manner of charging them. Here are some important facts to consider before purchasing one.

Charging Levels

In the same way, various appliances require different sizes of batteries, and electric vehicles require different voltages to function correctly. You can classify them into the following three levels:

Level 1 – Hybrid vehicles typically use a 120-volt outlet and charge at a rate of 5 to 8 km per hour.

Level 2 – Fully electric cars must have a 208- to 240-volt charger and charge at a more rapid rate of 19 to 128 km per hour.

Level 3 – Cars using these DC chargers are ready to get back on the road in a matter of minutes.

Level one and two charging stations use AC current and are suitable for residential homes. Level three stations are more appropriate for commercial settings that already have the high voltage necessary to run them.

Connectors 

A connecting cord links the car to the charging station, and the type you need varies based on the car’s make and model. Here are the basic types:

  • The J connector is the most common but does not work on all vehicles.
  • Tesla has its own unique connecting cord, but the J model will also work with a special adaptor.
  • Most vehicles that BMW, General Motors, and Volkswagen produce use the CCS connector.
  • Mitsubishi and Nissan cars take the CHAdeMO model.

Talk to your electrician about the type of vehicle you are planning to purchase so you can be sure you have everything you need to start charging it immediately.

Ways To Stay Safe Around Electric Charging Stations

Once CJ Brubacher has installed your home charger, take the following precautions to keep your family safe.

Check for Damage

A quality charging station that a licensed electrical contractor installs will provide safe charging for years to come. However, rodents, weather events, and rough handling can all damage wires, leading to electrical shorts. For this reason, visually inspecting the station before using it is a good habit to develop.

Do Not Use an Extension Cord

Besides posing a tripping hazard, extension cords increase the risk of shorts and electric shocks. Luckily, consulting with an electrician before you buy means your charger will always be within easy reach of your car.

CJ Brubacher Provides Electrical Services 

Installing electric vehicle charging stations is just one part of CJ Brubacher’s residential electrical services. Our staff are all Ontario Licensed Electrical Contractors, so you know that our work complies with the Ontario Electrical Safety Code.

Before purchasing your electric vehicle, contact us for an estimate on a customized charging station. We are also available for any electrical services in Waterloo. Call us to report a problem or book your next project anytime. We are ready to serve all your residential and commercial electrical needs.

4 Signs You Need an Electrician Right Away in Kitchener

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.

Commmon Workplace Electrical Problems

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.