Mr. Air AC & Electrical Archives - Page 7 of 9

Electrical Tips for Holiday Lights

Holiday Decorating Tips

Some homeowners like to get a headstart on decorating for the holidays by starting right after Halloween or Thanksgiving. Decorating for the holidays is a great way to share holiday cheer, spend time with family, and enjoy the season. This blog post will share some Christmas decorating tips from professional electricians to make the season safe and festive.

Using the right kind of lights and power supplies can help to protect homeowners from potential electrical hazards. Practicing electrical safety during Christmas decorating helps prevent accidental electrical fires and keeps electric bills low. Homeowners should remember that electrical decorations could be damaged while in storage, so they should always inspect them for damaged wires before using them.

Finding the Perfect Christmas Decor

There are a variety of different types of Christmas lights and outdoor Christmas decorations for homeowners to choose from. Local retail stores may carry fun blow-up characters for the front yard, brightly colored lights, and window decorations. Homeowners can also find additional decorations by ordering online.

The most popular type of Christmas decoration is lights. Homeowners often like to choose a theme for their holiday decor, starting with the lights, such as all-white lights, icicle lights, or rainbow lights. Some lights project images such as snow onto the side of the house, light-up artificial reindeer, and more. Homeowners have a lot of options to choose from when it comes to the style of yard decor. It depends on their personal preferences.

Practice Electrical Safety

When working with outdoor Christmas lights, homeowners need to remember that there are potential hazards to avoid. The additional use of energy from plugging in the Christmas decorations can put a significant strain on the electrical system. Homeowners should be careful not to overload outlets and circuits.

The biggest risk with working with holiday lights is that they could cause an accidental house fire. Electrical house fires can be avoided by practicing good electrical safety. Older decorations are more likely to start a fire, so homeowners may want to consider upgrading to newer and safer decor and should always inspect decorations before plugging them in.

Homeowners can also use a whole house surge protector to protect the decorations and all household appliances and devices from the dangers of a power surge. Homeowners can also get safety inspections on their electrical systems to ensure that the home’s electrical components are working correctly and safely.

Eco-Friendly Holiday Decor

Another way to keep the home safe from overloading the electrical system is to use less electricity with eco-friendly holiday decor. Solar-powered lights are a great option because they absorb energy throughout the day, giving power to the lights during the night. Solar Christmas lights are an environmentally friendly way to enjoy bright holiday lights without using any energy.

Switching out old incandescent Christmas lights for new LED Christmas lights is a great way to save on electrical bills. LED lights use far less energy than traditional lights and also last much longer. They are also safer and less likely to cause a fire or electrocution. One of the things that people love the most about LED lights is that they have become very common and now come in every color and style that traditional incandescent Christmas lights do.

Battery-operated Christmas lights are a good option when there is no plug available. Using battery-operated decorations reduces strain on the home’s electrical system. The best way to protect the environment using battery-operated decorations is to use rechargeable batteries with them that can be reused year after year. Using eco-friendly decor saves money on the electric bill, protects the environment, and reduces strain on the home’s electrical system.

About Mr. Air AC & Electrical

Mr. Air AC & Electrical is devoted to the safety and comfort of its community of Pompano Beach, FL, and the surrounding areas. They can decorate homes for the holidays to take the difficulty out of it for homeowners. They provide same-day services, 24-hour emergency services, and straightforward pricing. Call them today for holiday lighting services in Pompano Beach, FL.

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Haunting Signs an Air Conditioner Needs Repair

Signs the AC Needs Repairs This Halloween

Being scared on Halloween is usually associated with getting the chills, but cold sweats might be more applicable to South Florida. The sweating part, at least. As temperatures stay high throughout this time of year, air conditioners continue to work to keep people cool and comfortable inside their homes as things outside get spooky.

There are some signs of a faulty air conditioner that are commonly confused with Halloween creepiness. In this blog, common signs the AC needs repair will be discussed, and by catching these problems early, homeowners can avoid the horror of being stuck without the air conditioner.

Startling Loud Sounds

Air conditioners are reliable equipment even when they work as hard as they do during the summers. When any piece of machinery starts to falter, it gives off signs, often in the form of new and unusual noises, many of which can be confused for Halloween sound effects during this time of year. Stay on the lookout for these signs that indicate problems with the AC:

Buzzing or Humming: These sounds are a common symptom of electrical problems brewing in the air conditioner. When capacitors go bad, or motors start to burn up, they often give off loud buzzes or hums when the unit starts up. Addressing this problem early can prevent a total outage.

Squeaks and Squeals: Squeaks and squeals can transmit through ductwork and be heard pretty much anywhere in the home. However, the problem is usually due to a lack of maintenance and lubrication. Also, blower wheels can squeak as they get grimed up and out of balance.

Dead Silence: This is the most haunting problem of all. Typically, if the unit is on and supposed to be running, this is a sign that the unit has completely failed. In some cases, the air filter may be so dirty that no airflow occurs.

Faulty Thermostat

The best way to beat the heat is to crank down the thermostat. The thermostat is one of the most important parts of the heating and cooling system. It tells the system when to turn it on and off and regulates the temperature in a home. If a thermostat isn’t working correctly, it can cause several problems.

The first thing homeowners may notice is that the home isn’t as comfortable as it should be. The same is true if the temperature in the house is too hot or too cold. Another problem homeowners might notice is that their heating and cooling system is running more than they should be. If the system is constantly turning on and off or seems to be running more often than usual, the thermostat may not be working correctly. This can waste a lot of energy and money.

There are a few things people can do to check whether or not the thermostat is working correctly. First, make sure the thermostat is set to the correct temperature. If it’s not, adjust it and see if that makes a difference. Next, check the batteries in the thermostat. If they’re old or dead, they may not be providing enough power to the thermostat. Replace the batteries and see if that solves the problem.

If the thermostat still isn’t working correctly, homeowners may need to replace it. Thermostats don’t last forever, and they can break down over time. If a thermostat is over ten years old, it’s probably time for a new one. Scheduling routine maintenance with an expert can ensure that thermostats are accurate and keep the home comfortable.

Uneven Cooling Around the Home

Those cold and hot spots around the home aren’t restless spirits but likely a sign of a faulty AC system. Often, uneven cooling around the house is a sign of poor airflow. Poor airflow is often due to dirty air filters that weren’t changed on time or damaged and leaking air ducts.

Replacing the air filter around every three months is essential to airflow and even cooling. Try changing the air filter if some rooms in the home are uncomfortably hot or cold, and see if that makes the Halloween season less frightening. Another cause of poor airflow can be air ducts leaking treated air, so the air isn’t properly distributed. Professional technicians can patch leaks in the air ducts or replace damaged sections of ductwork to fix this issue.

About Mr. Air AC & Electrical

Mr. Air AC & Electrical has more than three decades of experience serving Pompano Beach, FL, and the surrounding areas. They offer straightforward pricing, same-day services, and a membership club with perks. Call them today for air conditioning repairs in Pompano Beach, FL.

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Not All Outlets Are The Same

What Outlets Offer the Best Safety Features?

While all electrical outlets share the same goal, some offer more safety features than others. But which one works best for homeowners? This blog lets homeowners learn about which electrical outlets meet their homes’ needs. They should also consult a trained electrician, who can answer their questions and explain more. Some outlets with safety features that homeowners should consider installing include:

AFCI Outlets (Also Known as “Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters”)

AFCIs have two goals:

Power electronics: Whether someone is looking to plug in a lamp or charge their laptop or computer, AFCI outlets are the way to go. However, one should consult an electrician if they want to power a large appliance, like a refrigerator.
Reduce the likelihood of electrical fires: Electrical fires can start in seconds, usually when the outlet overheats. AFCIs prevent the outlet from getting hot enough to cause these fires. They also prevent residents from getting shocked when they plug something in.

Without getting into too much detail, AFCIs can recognize when the outlet is overloaded. When the outlet reaches a certain heat threshold, the outlet “interrupts” the flow of power, reducing the likelihood of fires, injuries, and property damage.

GFCI Outlets (Also Known as “Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters”)

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission shares these facts about GFCIs:

GFCIs prevent nasty electrical shocks.
They constantly monitor the currents running through a system––and stop the flow once the current reaches a dangerous threshold.
GFCIs reduce the likelihood of property damage and electrical fires.
GFCIs rely on sensors to measure electrical currents.

Here’s a basic overview of how a GFCI works:

A bare wire touches its electrical case, sending electricity flowing through the case.
A homeowner touches the electrical case.
Before the electricity can “jump” from the case to the homeowner, the GFCI shuts the power off.

GFCIs are some of the most popular outlets in today’s market. In fact, many counties note that before a new home can be built, it must have GFCI outlets.

Childproof Outlets

About 20 percent of accidental childhood injuries result from electrocutions. While many of these injuries are minor, severe shocks can result in brain damage, paralysis, and even death. This makes it crucial for parents to install childproof outlets in their homes. However, this goes beyond putting a plastic cover over an outlet and calling it a day.

Childproof outlets prevent these potentially life-threatening electrocutions. Many of these outlets have springs underneath them. So, when a child inserts a foreign object into the hole, the springs resist this. One would need a fair amount of force to get a bobby pin, fork, or paper clip into the outlet. Some childproof outlets come with sliding covers that obscure the holes. Others pair with smartphones, allowing parents to see when their child is attempting to put something in the outlet.

About Mr. Air AC & Electrical

Mr. Air AC & Electrical has over three decades of experience serving the residents of Pompano Beach, FL, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, same-day services, and an on-time guarantee. Call them today for electrical outlet repair and replacement in Pompano Beach, FL.

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Back to School: Air Duct Cleaning 101

Air Duct Cleaning Basics

Professional air duct cleaning is a great way to improve indoor air quality and offers many benefits. Experts recommend having the ducts cleaned by a professional at least once a year. When the air ducts are neglected, they may become contaminated with various pollutants and contaminants, creating a weak airflow and a mold breeding ground. The contaminants can also cause various health concerns for the house's residents.

Signs the Air Duct System Needs Cleaning

There are numerous reasons why the air ducts may need cleaning, but the most frequent is a buildup of dust and grime from everyday activities. When the home’s ductwork is clogged with dirt and debris, it can smell unpleasant and deprive the house of its ability to be both comfortable and energy efficient. When the temperature changes, homeowners may detect a draft from the air vents or registers. Dirty air ducts may be the reason for an inexplicably high power bill.

Dust and debris in the AC system may irritate sensitive people, including those with respiratory issues such as allergies and asthma. Although these particles are safe for most people, some have breathing difficulties or other health issues, and filthy air ducts and filters may worsen the symptoms and make breathing more difficult. Cleaning the air ducts is a good step when trying to reduce allergens.

Benefits of Having the Air Ducts Cleaned

A complete duct cleaning removes dangerous particles that accumulate inside the ductwork over time and cause poor indoor air quality. Dust is a problem because it can make allergies worse. But it’s also a problem because dust accumulates quickly, and most of it ends up in the ductwork.

A thorough duct cleaning may restore the cooling system's performance if it isn’t working as well as it once did. When dust and dirt build up in the ductwork and on registers and vents, air can be restricted from flowing as it should. This means that the temperature in the house may not be maintained at the preferred level, and homeowners will see an increase in energy costs. This can be solved by having the ducts cleaned regularly. Duct cleaning helps restore efficiency and reduces energy costs.

Additionally, the ducts might not smell good even if there aren’t many build-ups. This is because mold and mildew can grow in the ducts and make the air smell bad. When the air ducts are cleaned, all of the build-up, mold, or mildew will be removed, and the air will smell fresh and clean.

How to Keep a Home’s Air Ducts Clean

Preventative maintenance is one of the best ways to avoid duct contamination between professional cleanings. Many professionals recommend homeowners use the most efficient air filter for their AC system and change the air filter frequently to maintain clean ducts.

Air filters should typically be replaced every three months or more often if a home has pets or residents with allergies. Homeowners can also check for blockages in return vents and replace them as needed. When any indoor construction occurs, seal off vents to protect the AC system from dusty intake.

About Mr. Air AC & Electrical

Mr. Air AC & Electrical has over three decades of experience serving Pompano Beach, FL, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, same-day services, and an on-time guarantee. Call them today for air duct cleaning in Pompano Beach, FL.

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Transform Any Backyard into a Special Summer Oasis

Make the Backyard Guest-Ready

Summertime is for family gatherings, get-togethers with friends, cookouts and backyard BBQs, neighborhood celebrations, and pool parties. Even watching fireworks from the comfort of a backyard can be special. With that in mind, homeowners who anticipate their backyard being a social hangout spot this summer should consider upgrading their backyard and transforming it into an oasis where guests will want to spend their free time.

Light it Up

The first upgrade homeowners should consider for their backyard is adding sufficient outdoor lighting sources. There are several different lighting types to choose from, and each can set a specific atmosphere and dynamic. For example, string lights wrapped around trees and above an outdoor dining table can create a fantasy-inspired or romantic atmosphere for friends, family, or couples to gather.

Another type of lighting option for the yard is landscape lighting. This type of lighting can come in an assortment of types, from pathway lights and garden lights to solar-powered lights placed throughout the yard. This lighting can highlight specific parts of the yard, such as a homeowner’s garden or trees.

For even more atmospheric relaxation, homeowners can add a fire pit to the backyard. Not only will this produce some natural nighttime lighting, but it will also be perfect for homeowners who want to roast marshmallows or hotdogs over an open fire.

Purchase a Generator

Generators can be a great addition to any home. Whole house generators can even increase the property value of a home. Installing a generator will help in instances where a power outage occurs. They allow for the continued use of electricity and hot water, so any summer gatherings or quiet nights at home won’t have to face interruption.

Thunderstorms are a threat during the spring and summer, and winter storms can be dangerous during the colder months. These natural events can lead to power outages that last for days and sometimes even weeks. Without a generator, homeowners risk their food spoiling because the refrigerator won’t have power. Even worse, those who rely on electricity for medical equipment are often left without their required medical necessities during a power outage.

With a generator, especially a whole-house generator, homeowners can protect their food and their loved ones and continue to use everyday appliances and hot water while a power outage is underway.

Invest in a Pool or Hot Tub

Another great way to add property value to a home is to invest in a pool or hot tub. Not only do these items just add value to a home, but they also allow homeowners and their guests to have years of fun right at home and make new memories.

However, any pools and hot tubs must be installed by a qualified professional electrician who can ensure that they are wired safely and are up to current electrical codes and regulations. Homeowners who add a pool or hot tub to their property can have a relaxing oasis in their own backyard.

About Mr. Air AC & Electrical

Mr. Air AC & Electrical has over 30 years of experience serving the residents of Pompano Beach, FL, and the surrounding areas. They offer straightforward pricing, 24-hour emergency services, financing, and a membership club. Call them today for electrical services in Pompano Beach, FL.