An electrician installing a 360-degree dome camera

The Benefits of a 360 Degree Camera

Your home or business can benefit greatly from installing a camera security system. However, a 360-degree camera system is capable of much more than a typical system. It can see a larger view than normal cameras and allows for a larger recording radius. Helping deter crime from occurring and recording the culprits if a crime does unfortunately happen. Therefore, a camera security system is already amazing for your property but a 360-degree camera can elevate its benefits even further.

Requires Less Installation and Cameras

A great benefit of installing a 360-degree camera is the amount of space you save. With traditional camera systems, you’d need multiple cameras set up in order to feel secure on your property. However, a 360-degree system can capture numerous areas at once with just one camera setup. This helps you save money and time on installation and maintenance services. Allowing you to enjoy the benefits of all-day security while only utilizing the view of a single camera. It is truly a convenient system especially if you don’t want numerous cameras set up around your property, reducing curb appeal.

Crime Deterrent

Investing in a 360-degree camera system is very useful for deterring crime from occuring on or around your property. When someone sees your cameras they will immediately think twice about the action they are about to take. Your camera system makes the lives of a criminal much harder, making them want to move on to a different property with less security. Unfortunately, sometimes crime still occurs regardless of the camera system you have installed. That being said at least now you can catch the culprit and watch the entire event unfold through the view of your cameras. It then makes the job of catching criminals much easier for authorities. If you want added security added to your property then a 360-degree surveillance camera system is perfect for you!

Camera Adaptability

Technology continues to evolve, which helps make security cameras even more adaptable and useful. Now that we can create 360-degree cameras our installation options are nearly limitless. You can install these amazing cameras anywhere on your property whether it be indoor or outdoor. That way you’ll feel protected no matter what area of your property you currently are in. Technology will only keep getting better, so it’s best to advance with it than to be left in the past!

360 Degree Camera Installation Services

If these benefits sound great for you and your property then consider investing in a 360-degree surveillance camera. No need to worry about installation services, simply contact Brunelli Electric and get better protection today! Their professional team is trained and certified in camera services and installation. Call them today for the best 360-degree camera results!

Someone using a security camera system

What Features Should I Look For in a Security Camera System?

Are you looking to install a new security camera system for your home or business? Well here’s a detailed list of some features you should look for. Not all systems are made equally! Some Camera systems have better systems and technology than others. In this article, we will discuss basic and advanced features that you should keep in mind when selecting a camera system for your property.

Camera Types

When installing a new system there are a wide variety of cameras you can choose to install on your property. Some cameras have better visual features than others. For example, a 360-degree camera can view an entire area completely around with just one camera. Other systems need multiple cameras installed to obtain a large field of view. Some cameras also have higher recording quality than others. This means that the visual quality is greatly dependent on the brand of camera you decide to install. Therefore always check reviews and view samples of cameras before deciding to install them on your property.

Camera Streaming Capabilities

If you’re installing a camera system on your property then streaming capabilities are a must. Streaming allows you to view your camera live recording from the comfort of your phone and the safety of your home. You can see any potential threats without ever having to put yourself in harm’s way. Streaming capabilities also allow you to monitor your entire property while you are away. Therefore, if you are worried or want to make sure your property is safe at all times then streaming capabilities are a must.

Camera Recording Memory

What is also important in a security camera system is the recording memory itself. When cameras are rolling they need to have the functionality to save and upload records to a drive. This is convenient so that if you ever want to look back at footage from a certain time or day you can do so easily! Make sure you have plenty of recording space also, that way there is no limit to the amount of saved data you have. Another great feature that can help your property is being able to record footage whilst the internet is down. If a camera system can still record without internet then that is great for your property! It means that even when the internet is messing up you’ll always have recordings and footage to look back to once the problem subsides.

Brunelli Electric

If you need help with camera installation needs and want the best camera products on the market then contact Brunelli today for more information!

Benefits of Installing a Camera System

With the world constantly changing, you can add all kinds of additions to your home regardless if you want to increase efficiency, appearance, or just overall security. There is always something new out there for you to try. However, in this article, we will be specifically discussing the benefits of installing a camera system on your property. Whether you own a commercial or residential property, taking the time to invest in an advanced camera system can be just what you need!

Security Cameras Deter Crime

When you install a high-tech camera system that is capable of 24/7 surveillance and recording then you can help your property deter all sorts of crime. When individuals see cameras on a property it usually makes them think twice before committing a crime. On the chance that a crime is committed, you will have sufficient evidence to catch the suspect. A camera system can also help prevent a wide variety of crimes from occurring. The chances of crimes such as theft, robbery, assault, and more will decrease just by the presence of added security. 

Installing Cameras Adds Protection

If you install a security camera system on your residential property then it can help make you and your family feel at ease. When you are not home, simply check your cameras to make sure all is well in the area. You can watch your surroundings and property just by using your phone. If you ever travel away from your home then your camera can also help you watch the property whilst you’re gone. If your family knows they can have someone checking in on them then it helps them feel more secure. 

Cameras are great for not just residential properties but also commercial ones. Your Employees will feel safer knowing they have people looking out for them. They will also feel more comfortable working in an environment that deems safety as a priority.

Monitor Your Property From Your Phone

One of the best features of installing cameras on a residential property is being able to constantly monitor your surroundings. No need to physically be on the property, with the right camera you can get a 360-degree view of everything that is happening. You can even record audio to make sure you did not miss anything important. This feature is great for checking in on family or kids whilst way.

Commercial wise a quality camera system goes a long way. With cameras being able to produce stunning images and videos they are great for fighting theft. You’ll be able to catch individuals who try and sneakily steal from your business. Whilst also checking in on employees to make sure they are properly doing their job. All in all a camera system can do wonders for all properties and it’s a great investment to make. For more information about cameras and all things electric contact Bruenlli today!

Woman checking their electrical panel during a power outage

How to Prepare for a Power Outage

When the winter comes, all kinds of problems can occur with your home. Heavy snow and winds cause trees and other debris to fall or fly around with a ton of force. This can become very troublesome for most power wires that are typically out in the open. A tree or other types of debris can harm the wires and cause a massive power outage within your home area. This can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening if conditions are extreme enough. In this blog, we will be discussing how to prepare your home for outages to best help you in a time of need.

The Biggest Risks from a Power Outage

Power outages can leave you without any power for more than just a few hours, it can be days or even weeks if severe enough. One of the biggest risks you run into with no power is the lack of warmth. With the weather being extremely cold, snowy, and windy this can wreak havoc on your health if left without heat for too long. This causes you to develop extreme illnesses such as pneumonia and hypothermia which can be life-threatening if left untreated long enough. Your home will also be left in complete darkness at nighttime, your food will spoil, and certain necessities such as toilets can stop working.

Depending on your location your phones may not work either with the loss of internet in your area causing you to be completely shut off from the world. Power outages should be taken seriously and if you know a large storm is coming, it would be best to begin preparing in case. After you should always be more prepared than under-prepared.

What Equipment to Have in Case of a Power Outage

There are many different types of equipment you can utilize once the power in your home leaves. Some of these items range from electrical equipment to simple items that become necessary. Items such as a bucket of water, candles, and a good book can go a long way when trying to deal with an outage. Candles are great for light, extra clean water is always useful in case of an emergency, and a book can do a lot of good for entertainment purposes.

Bigger industrial equipment that can do a lot of good is investing in a generator. They have all kinds of generators to best suit your home’s needs. Some are so good you will never notice the power was down to begin with. You can buy a portable generator, solar generator, and even a backup generator that automatically kicks in once power is lost. Investing the time and money to buy the perfect generator will do more good than harm in the long run.

Utilize Brunelli Emergency Services

For more preventive equipment ideas or immediate electrical help with your home, make sure to contact Brunelli.

Installed knob and tube wiring in a home

What to Know About Knob and Tube Wiring

How to Spot and Replace Knob and Tube Wiring

Knob and tube wiring was an electrical wiring method used by electricians from the late 1800s to the mid-1990s. It was considered to be revolutionary for home electricity at the time. However, as time has passed and technology has advanced Knob and tube wiring is no longer used or supported for current-day technology. Its lack of compatibility with current technology and home appliances can lead to numerous problems in your home.

How to Spot Knob and Tube Wiring

If you are currently unsure if you have knob and tube wiring in your home it’s not too late to check. The best areas for spotting knob and tube wiring are within your basement or attic. Simply look around the joists for small ceramic tubes and knobs. If you spot the wiring, you should begin to think about how to replace it. If you do not spot any wiring in these areas that does not mean you are completely free of knob and tube wiring. Sometimes knob and tube wiring can be behind walls from previous homeowners trying to cover up the problem rather than resolving it. The only way to truly tell is by creating a hole in the wall to view the wiring in your home. While this may seem like a tedious task it can help you save thousands in the future by helping you avoid a major incident.

Potential Knob and Tube Wiring Hazards

Going out of your way to spot knob and tube wiring can feel unnecessary or like an overreaction. However, this is not the case knob and tube wiring can present a number of possible hazards for your home. The biggest hazard is the risk of a fire in your home due to wear and tear over time or too large electrical loads from modern appliances. Another common risk associated with knob and tube wiring is the lack of electrical ground. Not having a ground wire can lead to your devices and yourself being severely damaged. Whilst knob and tube wiring isn’t necessarily illegal it definitely has its cons that make it worth avoiding.

Knob and Tube Wiring Effects on Home Value

Knob and tube wiring is obsolete and carries many risks. Therefore, most insurance companies do not insure or renew homes that have knob and tube wiring. Nor, do they make it easy for you to finance a home with knob and tube wiring. Overall it becomes a financial headache that you may have to deal with for quite some time. Knob and tube wiring can potentially lower the overall value of your home as well. Since the cost of rewiring a home is very expensive you would need to deduct the additional cost from your selling price. Since many people stay away from knob and tube wiring it’s important to be transparent with any interested buyers. If you’re thinking of selling your home that contains knob and tube wiring just be prepared for a longer selling period.

How to Replace Knob and Tube Wiring

Knob and tube wiring replacement throughout a home is not an easy job. An ordinary electrician may find many complications and can do more harm than good if not experienced. That’s why it’s important to choose a trusted electrician for the job. Someone like Brunelli Electrician who has been in business for decades has the experience your home needs. With great prices and customer service, it’s no wonder why our customers keep coming back. If you want to replace knob and tube wiring in your home make sure to call Brunelli Electrician today!

How To Choose the Best Electrician

Deciding the perfect electrician for your building construction, office renovation, or apartment can be stressful as there are dozens right here in Southern Massachusetts alone!

However, there are key features and characteristics you must see before you choose an electrician to work for you. If these characteristics are not evident, you might be choosing the wrong person for your project. To be on the safer side, stay glued to this guide as we give you tips on selecting the right person. Let’s dive right in.

Check for Licenses 

Like any professional job, a license or evidence of expertise is the basic and foundational item to look out for when hiring an electrician.

This license indicates the electrician has undergone training from previous years and understands both precautionary and advanced standard safety procedures for anything electrically related.

In addition, it means any job done by this personnel is expected to have followed the appropriate rules and regulations by the Engineers association, and they have the minimum lifespan of authenticity by a directory board for it to maintain its state.

This license can be issued by the government, organization or by the state. Without this, it is best not to work with such an individual.

Certifications and Experience

A certification, on the other hand, also indicates their level of specialization in a given task. Some professional electricians are more advanced and specialized in a particular field, like household wiring, HVAC systems, and heating appliances.

And so, giving your project the right certificate and expertise in that field for a more specialized task is also best.

Some electricians are also more versed with decades of practice. Over these years, they have worked on numerous technical projects that can only be tackled by an updated person in that field.

Recommendations

To hire an electrician, you can do your research by seeking out the assistance of people who have hired one before so they can give a review or recommendation.

By seeking help from friends, neighbors, or even work colleagues, they get to vouch for their already done project, and any new task they would be working on for you would be to impress you at least before consecutive jobs.

Sometimes, some electrical agencies or teams would be recommended to get your job done faster instead of sole personnel.

Effective Communication

Although a soft skill, effective communication, and responsiveness towards any professional task is the bedrock of building meaningful relationships.

You want to avoid giving a task to someone who would end up ghosting you or giving false deadlines for the job completion.

And how can you vet for these traits for someone you don’t know anything from? You can start checking these characteristics right from the first meet-up, the job quota he or she would be giving, and further advice they would recommend to make your job better. This way, you can build on that and trust them better with bigger tasks.

Look Out for Guarantees and Warranties

For such a profession, giving out or postulating a warranty is an act of good workmanship. Most agencies do this to prevent future disagreements or disputes with past clients.

So, for your safety, upon every repair, change, or routine check for any of your work or home appliances, you can always confirm for a warranty so they would be held accountable for it.

Contact Brunelli for All Southern MA Electrical Work

Are you looking for an electrician in southern Massachusetts who checks all the boxes? Philip M. Brunelli is the man for the job! With decades of fully licensed and insured experience, Philip can handle any job thrown his way. Contact the team today!

 

When Do I Need to Update My Home’s Electrical Panel?

The breaker of the fuse box is known as an electrical panel that distributes electricity to every portion of your home. Its care and maintenance are essential for providing equal current and voltage.

You might need to upgrade your home’s electrical panel using the latest technological advancements. This will also ensure overall safety against potential electricity hazards.

This comprehensive guide will aid you in considering when to update your home’s electrical panel. This will improve optimal functionality.

A Panel’s Age

It is necessary to update your home’s electrical panel if installed and not changed for long. It depends upon the house’s construction, whether it is 20 or more years old.

It is worth upgrading your home’s electrical panel. Older panels might increase the potential harms like short circuits and many more.

Insufficient Power Supply

The usage of electricity increases when you add more appliances to your home. Also, it burdens your electrical panel, which might malfunction because of being old.

If you notice frequent tripping, low voltage, or circuit breakups, you should upgrade your electrical panel without wasting a moment. A greater capacity panel upgrade helps avoid overloads and guarantees that your home’s electrical system can meet your needs.

Outdated Fuse Box

More than 20-year-old homes still have fuse box systems instead of electrical panels. These fuses may catch fire if not placed or sized correctly in relevant brackets.

This is why fuses are less efficient and reliable than modern electrical panels. A circuit breaker panel upgrade improves safety and simplifies resetting in the event of an overload.

Non-Compliance with Safety Regulations

The advanced electrical panels are designed in such a way that they ensure safety against different potential hazards. They meet safety and precautionary standards.

If your old electrical panel fails to maintain these safety standards, it is time to upgrade it with an advanced one. Outdated panels may not have the proper grounding or fire or shock protection.

Knob-and-Tube Wiring

Knob-and-tube wiring is also an old method that doesn’t commit to providing safety measurements. They are likely to catch fire and damage your appliances due to fluctuations in voltage.

To avoid such drastic situations, replace the knob-and-tube wiring system with an advanced electrical panel. This advanced system will ensure reliability and safety.

Future Proofing

Choosing and installing advanced electrical panels for your homes not only enhances safety but also future-proofs your homes. These electrical panels meet the requirements of today’s electrical appliances and modern needs.

Contact Brunelli Electric for Southern MA Panel Upgrades

An updated electrical panel is paramount in powering your southern MA home both safely and efficiently. If your home is in need of panel upgrades, contact Brunelli Electric of Franklin today! Our team of licensed and insured electricians can safely and quickly upgrade your panels at an unbeatable price!

 

short circuit

Why Did My Electrical Outlet Spark?

Electrical fires comprised 6.3% of all residential fires between 2014 and 2016. Around 24,000 incidents were reported annually, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. Electrical wire, cable insulation, and structural members or framing were the top three things that frequently started electrical fires in residential buildings (31%, 18%, and 12%, respectively.) Let us find out what could make your electrical outlet spark and how to protect yourself and your loved ones from it.

What Are The Causes of Electrical Outlet Sparks?

Electrical outlet sparks can happen for many reasons. Sparks and arcing can occur at loose connections where wires or terminals are not tightly attached. Overheating results from overloaded circuits, which occur when an excessive electrical load exceeds the outlet’s capacity. Sparks are more likely to happen when wiring is flawed, such as when insulation is destroyed, or wires are exposed. They can also be produced by outlets that are damaged and have parts that are cracked or broken. It is essential to identify and resolve these reasons for electrical safety and to avoid potential risks quickly.

The Risks and Implications of Electrical Outlet Sparks

Sparks from electrical outlets present serious dangers and implications that require a quick response. First, sparks can result in electrical fires that put lives in danger and cause significant property damage. They provide a real risk of igniting nearby flammable goods. Second, sparks can indicate potential electrical problems that could lead to power surges that harm delicate electronics and appliances. Such occurrences could necessitate pricey replacements or repairs.

Additionally, sparks significantly increase the risk of electrical shocks for anybody standing close to the outlet, seriously jeopardizing their safety. Electrical shocks can cause anything from minor pain to life-threatening conditions depending on the shock’s severity. Sparks may also be a sign of deeper electrical problems with the wiring, which, if left unattended, can result in severe electrical failures or concerns with the entire structure. This occurrence may interfere with routine activities, annoy others, and lead to considerable financial losses.

It is essential to be aware of the effects of electrical outlet sparks and respond immediately. Professional assistance is required for the problem to be evaluated and fixed in a way that ensures electrical safety. Regular checks, quick fixes, and attention to safety regulations can reduce hazards and shield people and property from the damaging effects of electrical outlet sparks.

Safeguarding Your Home Against Electrical Outlet Sparks

It’s essential to safeguard your property from electrical outlet sparks to maintain safety and reduce the possibility of fire threats. You can protect your property and loved ones by taking these preventative measures:

  1. Routine Inspections: During regular inspections, check electrical outlets for wear, loose connections, and other damage. Any defective outlets should be changed right away to avoid sparks.
  2. Proper Usage of Outlets: Use outlets properly by not plugging in too many gadgets or utilizing several adapters to prevent overloading. To avoid electrical overload, distribute the load evenly and utilize power strips with surge protectors.
  3. Professional Wiring: Depend on licensed electricians for installations, repairs, and upgrades regarding electrical services. To lower the chance of sparks, they will ensure that the wiring, grounding, and circuit breakers are all in place.
  4. GFCI Outlets: Install ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets in damp places, including restrooms, kitchens, and exterior spaces. These outlets offer additional security by immediately cutting off power if a defect is found.
  5. Surge protectors: Use surge protectors when using delicate appliances and electronic devices. Power surges can ignite and harm electronics; thus, these devices assist in preventing them.

Protect Your Massachusetts Home or Business with Brunelli Electric

Observing these preventative steps may drastically reduce the likelihood of electrical outlet sparks in your Southern MA home or business. They make your property a safer and more secure place for everyone. Consult Brunelli Electric of Franklin, MA, today for your electrical installations, repairs, and upgrades. Our expert electricians are some of the best in the industry. You can contact us here.

How De-icing Wiring Can Protect Your Roof This Winter

Apart from the cold that comes during winter in Southern Massachusetts, the formation of ice dams on roofs is also a problem to tackle during the snow season. If you’re not careful, you may need to deal with a much more serious problem than having thick layers of ice on your roof. For instance, your gutter might get clogged due to the dams, or your house may even start leaking when the temperature gets warmer. You can avoid any of these problems by getting de-icing wiring. This article will explain what ice dams are and how de-icing wiring can protect your roof during winter. 

What Causes Ice Dams?

Ice dams are formed from the constant buildups of snow and ice on the eaves and edges of a pitched roof. While they may result in beautiful icicles that add to the aesthetic features of the house, they can also cause water infiltration, break gutters, and damage roofs. Let’s find out how de-icing wiring can protect your roof this winter.

How De-icing Wiring Can Protect Your Roof

Roof de-icing wiring makes use of electrical resistance. This performs two major roles, namely;

  • generate heat, and
  • melt pathways through the ice and snow on the roof.

The melted pathways now form channels that allow the melted water to flow off the roof. This ensures that the snow and ice do not freeze and become ice dams or seep into the roof. 

However, it is important to note that de-icing wiring alone cannot really help you remove all of the ice on the roof. The main goal of de-icing wiring is to keep your roof safe from the dangers of extremely cold climates that we commonly see in Massachusetts. Ice and snow can become so dense with the time that they pile so deep and high on your roof to make the weight of the snow on your roof really heavy. The snow and ice can also blanket your rooftop and freeze the water in the pipelines. 

Pros Of Having A De-icing Wiring On Your Roof

When you get de-icing wiring that is of good quality and that is also installed by certified expert electricians, you can do a lot of good for your roof. This starts from the minimized accumulation of water that causes ice dams to slow their growth and leave your roof really light. 

To prevent any ice dams from forming on your roof, the cables are installed in a zig-zag pattern up and down the roof. When they are installed, the following happens:

  • The de-icing wiring on the roof melts the passages of potentially formed ice dams.
  • It minimizes ice accumulation.
  • It helps provide a path for the snow and ice to melt off your roof.
  • It prevents water from freezing within pipelines and causing them to burst.

Install De-icing Wiring with Brunelli

De-icing wiring is primarily designed for use with asphalt shingles which are one of the most common roofing materials in Massachusetts. To protect your roof this winter from damage, de-icing wiring is your surest bet, and this saves you from a lot of damage. Contact Brunelli Electic today to have de-icing wiring installed on your Southern Massachusetts home or business and keep your property safe from damage!

short circuit

What Is Considered An Electrical Emergency?

There’s never a good time for an electrical issue to arise, so it’s a good idea to be prepared in the event that one comes up at an inopportune time. One of the easiest ways to do this is to know ahead of time what constitutes an electrical emergency and what can wait until a better time to address it.

It is also important to keep in mind that most electrical work requires a level of expertise and can pose a serious risk to anyone who tries to tamper with it. Not only that, but certain electrical issues can put your home and loved ones at risk if left unaddressed, so it’s good to know when to call in a professional for an emergency.

1. An unexplained power outage

Most power outages have a relatively simple explanation. Whether it’s inclement weather, infrastructural work, or an accident that has knocked out power to an area, your utility company should be able to explain why your power is out. 

However, if your home has lost power, the utility company can’t explain it, and the problem is isolated to just your home, you can consider this an electrical emergency.

2. You find a burnt outlet

If you see brown or black marks surrounding an outlet, this is a clear sign that it has been overloaded. When an outlet is overworked, it heats up and can reach a point where it actually begins to burn. An overloaded outlet should be addressed right away, so be sure to call an electrician about the issue immediately, no matter the hour. 

3. A new noise coming from your circuit breaker

If you notice that your circuit breaker is suddenly making a noise that you’ve never heard before, this could be indicative of a larger issue. The biggest risk in this situation is that your breaker isn’t tripping properly. 

It can be frustrating when a circuit breaker trips, but when this happens it’s actually a good thing. Circuit breakers trip when they sense something is wrong, so the tripping mechanism works to prevent further harm.

If the breaker isn’t tripping, it can leave your home vulnerable to electrical damage. There’s no doubt this is an electrical emergency, so don’t hesitate to contact a professional if this is happening in your home.

4. An electrical issue that can’t be fixed with simple troubleshooting

Sometimes fixing something electrical is as simple as unplugging it and plugging it back in again, wiggling a cord, or ensuring everything is plugged in where it’s supposed to be. But if these easy steps don’t do the trick, you may be dealing with an issue that requires professional help.

If an outlet, appliance, or light fixture isn’t functioning as it should and it’s putting off an unusual noise or smell, it should be considered an emergency and dealt with as quickly as possible. 

Leave it to the professionals at Phillip M. Brunelli Electric

There’s a reason electricians go through intensive schooling, apprenticeships, and additional training. Electrical work can be quite dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing and it’s easy to make a situation go from bad to worse if you try tinkering with the problem in an attempt to fix it. 

Our team at Brunelli offers 24/7 support for any electrical emergencies you may experience. If you are in the midst of an electrical emergency do not wait! Contact our team today.