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David Heintz
President
A & H Electric Co.
3505 N. Loop 336 West
Conroe, Texas 77304
Office: (936) 756-0442

Category: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

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Electrical Safety Tips for a Spooktacular Halloween

It’s officially October and, with Halloween at the end of the month, Spooky Season.

That means it’s time to decorate your home with all manner of spooky animatronics, décor, foggers, lights, and props that you can use to decorate the interior and exterior of your house this time of year after ensuring electrical safety. Of course, you may also want to consider hiring Conroe electricians to perform routine electrical safety inspections this season.

According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), 52% of consumers intend to decorate their home or yard, with an estimated $3.17 billion spent on decorations alone. Additional expenditures will include seasonal candy, costumes, and greeting cards. The NRF adds that “consumer spending on Halloween-related items is expected to reach an all-time high of $10.14 billion” this year.

In addition, a new study by Lombardo Homes found that 41% of Americans start decorating for Halloween during the first week of October, spending an average of 3.3 hours each year. The study also found that Texas residents get into the season’s spirit and that the state’s most popular decoration is the witch.

Of course, when decorating for Spooky Season, you want to take necessary safety precautions to ward off frightful situations. That is especially essential as the U.S. Fire Administration reports that, between 2017 and 2019, fire departments responded to an average of 9,200 fires over three days around Halloween. Among the leading causes of residential Halloween fires were electrical malfunctions.

Here are some electrical safety tips from Conroe electricians to ensure you experience a fun, but most importantly, a safe Halloween.

Halloween Safety Tips

Avoid Flammable Items

The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) encourages avoiding flammable products such as dried flowers, haystacks, or corn stalks in your Halloween displays. In addition, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends using battery-operated candles to illuminate your custom carved pumpkins.

Choose Your Décor Carefully

Suppose you are decorating with electrical decorations and Halloween lighting. In that case, it is essential to ensure that all products are certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory like UL and that they are intended explicitly for outdoor use or indoor/outdoor use.

Check All Cords Before Each Use

Whether new or old, it is also best to inspect cords for signs of fraying or damage before each use, replacing them as needed. Any lines with exposed wiring should also be discarded and replaced. That goes for both extension cords and product cords.

Have GFCIs Installed by Conroe Electricians

Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) can protect against electric shock by continuously monitoring the current flowing through a circuit and, if it differs by even a minuscule amount, immediately interrupting power to the outlet. They are required by the National Electrical Code (NEC). Conroe electricians should professionally install them in residential electrical systems in areas where moisture is a concern, including the outdoors.

Consult Conroe Electricians for an Electrical Safety Inspection

With over thirty years of experience in Montogomery County, TX, A&H Electric Co. is your local licensed electrical service, repair, and installation company. We offer a suite of commercial and residential electrical solutions, including but not limited to safety inspections and system upgrades, along with complete rewiring services. 

Our Conroe electricians can troubleshoot, repair, service, or install your electrical system Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. We are also proud to provide 24-hour emergency repair for those times when the unexpected happens. To schedule an electrical service appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact A&H Electric at (936) 756-0442.

A&H Electric Co. wishes everyone a happy and safe Halloween!

Resources:

“CPSC Fact Sheet: What is a GFCI?” Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

“Data Snapshot: Halloween Fires (2017 – 2019).” U.S. Fire Administration.

Inman, Danielle. “Halloween Spending Soars as Celebrations Near Pre-Pandemic Levels. National Retail Federation (NRF), September 22, 2021.

“Halloween Fire Safety Tips.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

“Halloween Safety Tips.” Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI).

“Which State Decorates the Most for Halloween?” Lombardo Homes.

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The Importance of Having a Certified Electrician Install AFCIs

Older homes, particularly those built before the 1980s, offer current and prospective homeowners with incredible charm. According to a 2018 report by the National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) Eye on Housing, older homes also account for half the houses in the United States.

However, older homes also can have aging, outdated electrical systems that may not meet today’s standards. Ideally, you should hire a certified electrician to inspect your electrical system, especially if your home was built more than 40 years ago or you plan to purchase an existing property.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical failures or malfunctions were the second leading cause of U.S. home fires between 2012 and 2016, accounting for thirteen percent of residential fires. In addition, three out of five of these structure fires were caused by a dangerous heat buildup caused by arc faults.

Also, according to the NFPA, “aging electrical systems in older homes can be a source of arc faults, either through normal wear and tear or because the systems cannot accommodate the greater demands of modern appliances.”

Arc-Fault Definition and Prevention

Arc-fault refers to a hazardous problem with your residential electrical system caused by damaged, overheated, or stressed wiring or devices. Further classified as either parallel or series arcs, arc-faults often go undetected, which is why the National Electrical Code (NEC) requires residences have arc-fault circuit interrupters installed.

Section 210.12 (A) of Texas’s National Electrical Code (NEC) 2020 requires arc-fault circuit interrupters installed on all 120-volt, single-phase, 15- or 20-amperage circuits in dwelling units. These are typically installed in your main electrical panel to provide whole-home protection from hazardous arcing. Once installed, the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) recommends testing them once a month, at minimum.

The NEC also allows combination-type arc-fault circuit interrupters that provide enhanced protection from arc faults to be installed. AFCIs should be professionally installed in your home by an electrician to ensure your property is up to code and that they are working correctly.

Leave AFCI Installation to a Certified Electrician

With over thirty years of experience in Montgomery County, TX, A&H Electric Co. is your local licensed electrical service, repair, and installation company. We offer a suite of commercial and residential electrical services such as electrical safety inspections, arc-fault circuit interrupter installation, and electrical system upgrades.

Our electrical contractors can troubleshoot, repair, service, or install your electrical system Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We also provide 24-hour emergency repair. To schedule an electrical service appointment with a licensed, certified electrician, please give A&H Electric a call at (936) 756-0442 today.

Resources:

“Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs)” Prevent Electrical Fires.” Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), March 29, 2016.

Campbell, Richard. “Home Electrical Fires.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), March 2019.

“Electrical Circuit-Interrupters.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

“NFPA 70, 2020, National Electrical Code 2020 of Texas: Section 210.12 Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter Protection (A) Dwelling Units.” UpCodes.

Zhao, Na. “Half of US Homes Built before 1980.” National Association of Home Builders (NAHB): Eye on Housing, August 10, 2018.

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What is Electrical Grounding?

Electrical grounding, also known simply as grounding, refers to “intentionally creating a low-resistance path to the earth. When properly done, current from a short or from lightning follows this path, thus preventing the buildup of voltages that would otherwise result in electrical shock…” (“Grounding,” n.d.). Grounding systems for residential and commercial properties typically consist of a professionally installed electrical grounding rod.

Electrical grounding is crucial for ensuring your safety. The National Electrical Code (NEC) 2020 of Texas has specific requirements for grounding, including permitted electric grounding rods or electrodes and the depth at which they should be installed. Certified electricians are proficient with these and additional NEC codes. That means you can be assured that your electrical grounding rod will perform safely and reliably when installed by a certified electrician.

Electrical Grounding Rod

The NEC specifies in Article 250, specifically 250.52, that rod-type grounding electrodes must be a minimum of eight feet long and 5/8 inches in diameter. They must also consist of stainless steel and copper or zinc-coated steel as these materials provide excellent conductive properties and corrosion resistance.

Alternatively, grounding electrodes composed of either pipe or conduit must be metal-coated for protection against corrosion, with a minimum diameter of 3/4 inches. The required length for this application type remains eight feet long.

A certified electrician must professionally install these systems. Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are also recommended, particularly in moist areas like kitchens and bathrooms, and should be considered in new builds and remodels. GFCIs are designed to disconnect power to a device if the current exceeds the values established. 

Electric Repair, Service, and Installation 

With over thirty years of experience in Montgomery County, TX, A&H Electric Co. is your local certified and licensed electrical service, repair, and installation company. We specialize in commercial and residential electrical services, including electric ground rod installation.

Our electronic contractors can install, repair, or service your electrical system Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We also provide 24-hour emergency repair. We invite you to schedule a service appointment with an expert, certified, and licensed electrician today.

Resources:

NFPA 70, 2020, National Electrical Code of Texas. “Article 250: Grounding and Bonding.” UpCodes, 2020.

NFPA 70, 2020, National Electrical Code of Texas. “Chapter 1: General – 100 – Definitions. UpCodes, 2020.

The Home Depot. “What is Grounding vs. Bonding.” n.d.

United States Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA. “Grounding.” n.d.

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When to Consider Replacing Your Home’s Wiring

Your home’s electrical system powers your appliances, whether small or major, and consumer electronics. A system consisting of various components, beginning with your electrical service connection and meter, is controlled and maintained by your local utility company. Inside your home, the electrical panel houses several circuit breakers and bus bars along with the main breaker. The latter, should it be blown or turned off, disconnects the power to your entire home.

More importantly, mainly in terms of safety and reliability, is your residential electrical wiring.

Since knob and tube wires, which were used from the 1800s to the 1930s, wiring has been installed in homes to distribute power from the source to light switches and outlets. They promote convenience, allowing you to plug in an electronic, then touch a remote button to watch your favorite movie or sitcom. There are times, like renovating an older home, when you should contact a licensed electrician.

Older homes, of which the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) estimates one-third of all residences in the United States are at least 50 years old, may have systems that do not meet local or national building codes. An electrician can identify older components and safety issues and make recommendations for improving the wiring of your home. Another reason to consider contacting an electrician to assess your residential electrical wiring is if you’re adding new appliances.

Warning Signs of Faulty Residential Electrical Wiring

If you notice any of the following, you should contact an experienced, licensed electrician to assess your wiring condition and make necessary repairs.

  • Sparking
  • Burning smell
  • Buzzing noises
  • Outdated wiring
  • Flickering lights
  • Hot outlets or light switches
  • Frequently tripped circuit breakers
  • Visible sparks when plugging devices into outlets
  • There is not an inadequate number of outlets in your home
  • No GFCI outlets in moist environments such as the bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room

Always Trust an Experienced and Licensed Electrician

A&H Electric Co. is a certified and licensed electrician specializing in commercial and residential electrical wiring installation, service, and repair. Our company services the Conroe, Houston, and The Woodlands area during regular business hours and, because emergencies happen, offer 24-hour repair. We invite you to contact us at (936) 756-0442 to schedule electrical service or repair.

Our electrical contractors possess the equipment and expertise necessary to service all your electricity needs, including installing new residential electrical wiring, whether you’re constructing a new house or renovating an existing property. In addition to providing superior quality workmanship, we are committed to standing behind all completed projects with a full one-year warranty.

Resources:

“8 Signs You May Have a Problem with Your Electrical Wiring.” UL.

“Understanding Your Home Electrical System.” Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI).

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3 Reasons to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel

As people purchase more electronics, possibly even adding a new appliance here and there, older electrical panels may not keep up with demand. That can create problems, such as breakers frequently tripping due to overloading the available circuits. Having a licensed electrician upgrade your electrical panel can solve this problem and prevent more substantial, perhaps even dangerous, issues from occurring.

Safety First

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical failures or malfunctions were responsible for more than forty-four thousand residential fires each year between 2012 and 2016, making them the second-leading cause of home fires. Electrical distribution, lighting, and power transfer equipment accounted for half of these. Aging electrical systems, arc faults, short circuits, and overloaded circuits can contribute to electrical fires and should be mitigated by contacting a licensed electrician. 

Increasing Amperage

Inside every panel is the main breaker, which shuts off ALL power to the residence, along with several circuit breakers and bus bars. You can identify the panel’s current amperage capacity by looking at the main breaker. To increase this capacity or have dedicated circuits installed, as required by the National Electrical Code (NEC) for major appliances, a licensed electrician will need to rewire your home and upgrade the panel.

Energy-Efficient Upgrades

There are a few energy-efficient upgrades for electrical panels, including intelligent circuit breakers, that can monitor the power your appliances and electronics are consuming. That will allow you to make wise decisions so that you can save money on future energy bills. Like Leviton’s new smart load center, some of the more recent products on the market can also instantly alert you to a tripped breaker (Gartenberg, 2019). Another option is an after-market smart energy meter that a licensed electrician can connect to a specific circuit to monitor the amount of power a single appliance or electronic is using. Whole-home monitors are also available.

Contact a Licensed Electrician to Upgrade Today

A&H Electric Co. is a certified and licensed electrician specializing in residential and commercial installation, service, and repair. Our company services the Conroe, Houston, and The Woodlands area during regular business hours and, because we understand that emergencies happen, offers 24-hour repair.

Please contact us at (936) 756-0442 to schedule a service appointment.

Our electrical contractors possess the equipment and expertise necessary to upgrade your electrical panels when the need arises and ensure your system is fully operational. Plus, we are committed to standing behind our workmanship, with a full one-year warranty on all projects.

A&H Electric is currently hiring! Please click here to view and apply for our company’s open employment opportunities.

Resources:

Campbell, Richard. “Home Electrical Fires.” The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), March 2019.

Gartenberg, Chaim. “Leviton’s new smart Load Center brings app control to your circuit breakers.” The Verge, February 19, 2019.

“How to Buy Electrical Panels.” The Home Depot.

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‘Tis the Season for Outdoor Decorating

Many Texans are already trimming the tree and decking the halls, not to mention creating festive holiday displays outside, bringing holiday cheer to them and their neighbors. You can drive through Conroe to see houses all aglow with holiday lights, twinkling luminaries, joyful signs, and light-up reindeer and other yard displays.

Do you favor a minimalist look with touches of greenery and classic decorations? Or are you inspired by Clark Griswold’s decorating style in the 1989 film National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation? Whichever decorating style you prefer, it is essential to ensure your residential wiring is up to code and follow these essential safety tips.

Inspect Light Strings

For safety, you should always inspect light strings, whether new or old. Replace sets with broken sockets, frayed wires, or loose connections as they pose a risk of electrical fire. Use a light tester to check for burnt-out fuses and light bulbs and make replacements before stringing the lights.

Use Light Clips and a Hanging Tool

When you get ready to illuminate your house, don’t follow Clark Griswold’s example of using staples or nails; always use light clips. There are various clips on the market today that can be placed on your home’s gutters or attached under the roof’s shingles. Also, rather than get up on a ladder, use an expandable pole to attach the clips and lights.

Plug into an Electrical GFCI Outlet

Always plug holiday displays into a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). GFCIs monitor for ground faults and, should one be detected, immediately interrupt the power to prevent electrical fires. An electrician must install these as they possess the skills and equipment necessary to complete residential wiring projects.

Prevent Extension Cords from Becoming a Hazard

Because your holiday lights and decorations will be exposed to the elements, make sure they and extension cords are rated for outdoor use, referring to the letter “W.” Some features to look for include a GFCI, lighted plug, and locking socket. Tape extension cords down to prevent people from tripping over them. Also, take care not to overload the circuit.

Schedule a Residential Wiring Inspection Today

It is essential to have a licensed electrician service residential wiring and electrical components. A&H Electric can expertly handle all your electrical projects, regardless of complexity, ensuring your system is up to code and optimally operating.

A&H Electric is a certified and licensed residential and commercial electrician specializing in installation, service, and repair. Our company is proud to help with your electrical system in Conroe, Texas, and neighboring communities.

Please schedule a service appointment today at (936) 756-0442.