What You Need to Know About Knob & Tube Wiring

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If you’ve ever lived or worked in a house that was built between 1900’s and 1950’s, it’s very likely you’ve come across knob & tube wiring. Back in the day, this technology was considered a breakthrough for the electrical industry, but the norms and standards have evolved since then. Today, knob & tube wiring that has never been replaced or upgraded is considered unsafe. Old wiring can violate legal electrical codes and may decrease the value of your property.

 

So, what are the dangers associated with the outdated knob & tube wiring? First and foremost, knob and tube wiring consists of two separately stranded wires, that run through your walls and attic, but not through the ground. Knob and tube wiring runs through the open-air splices inside your walls under your insulation, yet there is no electrical box. This offers virtually no protection from electric shocks, overheating, or even igniting a fire. Additionally, the buildings with knob & tube wiring usually have an outdated insulation layer, and the circuitry may be impacted by plumbing or external water leaks, risking to shock the building’s occupants. Furthermore, older electrical systems didn’t carry high ampacity loads, and these extra loads that a modern home consumes might become a source of a full spectrum of electrical hazards. Over the years, if occupants wish to add more outlets to the house, electrical overvoltage is at a high risk of happening.

 

If you consider selling your property, make sure the original knob & tube wiring is replaced with a more modern solution, as it might cost you a potential sale. The reason is, home insurance companies will refuse to cover the homes with the outdated circuitry. If you are purchasing real estate with an outdated knob and tube wiring, make sure to negotiate an agreement where a seller would provide a licensed electrician to rewire a house as soon as possible.

 

Do not think of replacing knob and tube wiring on your own, an expert should inspect the condition of the wires, connections, devices like receptacles, switches, and overcurrent protection by fuses or circuit breakers. Because of the dangers involved, we urge you to contact Philip M. Brunelli Jr. master electrician to detect and correct all knob and tube wiring in your home or commercial business. Contact us today to get a quote for full knob and tube rewire. Having the peace of mind, knowing your electrical system meets the modern electrical code for safety, goes a long way.

 

Take a look at a recent knob & tube rewire we did:

 

How to Protect Your Outdoor Outlets

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Outdoor power outlets can be a convenient source of electricity not only for leisure and entertainment purposes but for getting the chores done outside without the hassle of extension cords. Electrical outlets outdoors make your life easy since they can supply your landscape lighting, power up a lawn mower, charge your phone, and so on. However, by failing to properly maintain these outlets, you’re risking to not only damage your equipment but create a dangerous hazard to your home and family. There are several tips electricians recommend to properly protect and maintain your outdoor outlets.

 

First of all, there’s only one type of power outlets that’s okay for the outdoor use. Per requirement of National Electrical Code, the ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) power outlets are used for safety. This type of outlets is equipped with “TEST” and “RESET” buttons and has “WR” letters imprinted, meaning they are “weather-resistant”.

 

Weatherproof covers are mandatory for outdoor outlets. The generic flip-up tabs often come together, but they only protect outlets from moisture and dirt when the outlets are not in use. One of the newer requirements of the National Electrical Code is so-called “bubble covers”. It’s just another weatherproof addition, protecting your outlets against moisture and allowing you to use them safely even during inclement weather. Bubble covers provide a deep lid all over the outlet, letting a plugged-in cord run out of the bottom.

 

If you just moved into a new home that already comes with outdoor outlets, don’t just assume they are working properly. Make sure to schedule a safety inspection with us!

 

The spring is fast approaching, and soon enough we’ll be spending way more time outdoors, enjoying the longer daylight and warmer weather. Protect your home and your family by ensuring the safe and proper operation of outdoor outlets. Here at Philip M. Brunelli Jr. Master Electrician, we can install, repair or inspect outdoor outlets in the area of Franklin, MA.

Top Interior Lighting Trends of 2018

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Interior lighting is one of the essential elements of your home’s design. The atmosphere of a room can change dramatically depending on how the lights are positioned and what kinds of fixtures or light bulbs are being used. Needless to say, lighting also varies from room to room to accompany the functions and the feel of each space. The trends in interior lighting keep varying as the technology advances and preferences of new generations change. If you’re planning a remodeling this year, there are several new trends that might help you better understand your lighting needs and choices.

Industrial Lighting

As we know, fashion is a recurring cycle. Recently, we’ve noticed an industrial style reincarnating into a more elegant modern industrial. Rustic finishes, neutral colors, and other metal elements, associated with the traditional industrial style, tend to have an unfinished and warehouse-like feel. Industrial is coming back as a modern industrial, upgraded with the elements of elegance in a form of sleeker metals and new designs. Pendant lights and wall lighting fixtures in modern industrial style are perfect for kitchen and dining areas.

 

Retro Lighting

Similarly to the industrial style, retro is bringing back the nostalgic designs in an upgraded form. Vintage Edison-style lightbulbs are one of the most trending, timeless designs, that now also come with LED lighting. They can add cozy and warm yet slightly industrial feel to your living area and kitchen.

 

Art Deco Lighting

Unlike in lighting trends, the elements of Art Deco have been a consistent hit in the interior design. The early century modern art style is making a comeback with clean and sharp lines, the balance of art and form. Art Deco lighting fixtures are instantly recognized for their unique designs, combining geometric and functional features. Ultimately, this lighting style can make a bold art statement in any size, from an overhead centerpiece chandelier to a minimalistic accent table lamp.

 

LED Lighting

Over the past few years, LED has been pushing the old-fashioned lighting off the market. Typical light bulbs are wasteful and incandescent compared to an efficient and environmentally-friendly LED lighting. Its advantages are incomparable; LED is a long-lasting lighting option that saves power and money. It comes in a wide array of unique designs, styles, shapes, colors and extra features. The only drawback is that by saving money in the long run, the LED installation is more expensive compared to other types of lighting. Luckily, LED cost is expected to lower in 2018, so more homeowners will be able to afford it moving forward.

 

No matter what the trends dictate, choose what you love and what fits your home best. If you need a consultation on different kinds of lighting options you consider for your new home wiring or remodel, contact the office of Philip M. Brunelli Jr Master Electrician online or call 508-400-5571!

Benefits of Installing a USB Outlet

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Thanks to the popularity of smartphone technology and tablets, electronic charging devices all run by USB power ports. For years, many of us have had to plug our phones and tablets and other devices into converter devices that would connect to a traditional outlet, but times have changed. While there are many charging options, and all of them still work well, USB wall chargers are gaining more popularity than ever before.

USB outlets are small and accommodating, and the cables not only carry power but also data. They’re beneficial for smart grids, convenient storage, and even solar power. And they’re universal. The benefits are clear. Many people consider USB to be the future of electricity, and it’s easy to see why. But in case you aren’t sure yet, here are some major benefits of installing a USB outlet into your wall.

Convenience

While some rechargeable devices require you to wait until their battery is full again before using it, USB ports allow you to charge and use the device simultaneously. That’s pretty convenient. Some laptops and PCs have limited ports, reducing the options for using these methods. But a USB wall charger will allow you to make use of its functionalities anytime you need it. Also, many detached USB ports can be bulky, thereby covering up other unused outlets. You won’t have to worry about that with a wall charger.

Efficiency

Using a normal USB power outlet to charge your device through a laptop or desktop computer can provide you with a current of roughly 500 amps maximum. This could sometimes take a bit longer than plugging your device into a cord that connects to a traditional outlet – a not-so-convenient method sometimes. But having a USB wall outlet will allow you to charge faster with about 20 amps more than a desktop or laptop. This is especially beneficial to devices that are larger and have bigger batteries. The stronger current will allow for a minimal charging time of just a few minutes, making it much more efficient.

Durability

Because of their sleek and lightweight designs, many USB ports currently on the market are easily lost or damaged. But a USB wall charger is much more durable – it doesn’t go anywhere. Sometimes a home office might require several things to be plugged in at once, creating a potential fire hazard with several USB ports, which can become costly. The wall port will last you for years to come and is made of durable, quality materials.

If you need more information or assistance from a qualified technician who can install a USB wall outlet for you in the greater Franklin, MA area, get in touch with us today. Philip M. Brunelli Jr. has been a residential and commercial electrical contractor since 1997, and we’ve wired over 600 brand new homes locally and serve our customers, large and small. Our technicians are highly trained, respectful, timely, and guarantee satisfaction.  

Smoke Detectors: What You Need to Know

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According to National Fire Protection Association, there are two basic kinds of smoke detectors, commonly found in Massachusetts homes.

The first type is ionization smoke detector, which is primarily designed to identify flame fires. Its principle of work is based on a tiny amount of fire-sensitive radioactive material, trapped between two electrically charged plates inside the device. When this compound detects fire, the ions of the substance are reduced, which triggers the alarm sound to go off.

Another common type of alarm is a photoelectric smoke detector, and it works better with smoldering fires. There are interfering light and a sensor installed inside a detector. As the smoke enters the device, it disrupts the communication of light to a sensor, which sets alarm into action.

It’s highly recommended to have both ionization and photoelectric alarms installed in your home, as one can never predict the nature of a potential fire. NFPA recommends having several fire alarms on each floor of your house, especially in the bedrooms and outside each sleeping area. For the kitchens, we recommend ionization detectors to minimize the risk of alarm sound while cooking. Make sure to test your alarms monthly and change batteries twice a year.

According to the US Fire Administration (USFA), it is recommended that smoke detectors be replaced every ten years. Philip Brunelli recommends you remove the alarm and check the date of its manufacture. If it’s been over 10 years since the date on the back, contact online or call us at 508-400-5571 for an urgent replacement of your smoke detectors!

electrical wires

Should I Replace My Electrical Wiring?

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Old wiring isn’t necessarily dangerous, but you should make sure that your electrical system is up to date. If you’re not sure on the condition of your wiring, it’s worth it to hire a licensed master electrician to inspect your electrical system.

Warning Signs

If you notice any of these signs in your home, you should consider having your wiring replaced.

  • Breakers or fuses blow constantly
  • Dimming or flickering lights
  • Discolored outlets
  • Switch plates that are warm to the touch
  • Outlets only accommodate two-prong plugs

Replacing electrical wiring is part of making an old home safer, more modern, and more livable. Your electrical wiring should be up to code, as many insurance companies will charge a higher rate if your home has out of date or knob & tube wiring. Since knob and tube wiring is an older electrical system, it has a lot fewer circuits and lacks ground wire for the circuits. These problems can cause wires to short circuit or overheat.

Here at Philip M. Brunelli Jr. Electrician, we replace electrical wiring in homes and businesses. Call us today to schedule an appointment! 508-400-5571

electrician working with wires

How to Avoid the Most Common Electrical Code Violations

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You depend heavily on electricity throughout the day, but is your home’s electricity safe? Electrical code violations can put your home and family in danger. Make sure you avoid these common electrical code violations and keep your family safe by hiring a reputable electrician to make repairs.

 

Knob & Tube Wiring

Knob and tube wiring is considered very dangerous in today’s day-and-age. The wires aren’t grounded, so the circuits support a lower amperage than what is needed today. The wires used in this type of wiring, feature insulation that disintegrates over time. Many insurance companies won’t insure buildings with knob and tube wiring.

When to Hire an Electrician to Avoid This Code Violation: If your home was built before 1950 and the wiring has never been updated.

 

Old Wiring

A very common wiring mistake is running new light fixtures with old wiring. New fixtures often run at a hotter temperature, overloading wires if they’re older.

When to Hire an Electrician to Avoid This Code Violation: If your home has wiring from before 1987.

 

Overcrowded Wires

Overcrowding wires is when four or five wires are shoved through a ⅞ inch hole in the wall. This can be extremely dangerous as it leads to damaged wires. When the wires rub against each other, the insulation can be torn off of them, leaving them exposed and a fire hazard.

When to Hire an Electrician to Avoid This Code Violation: If your home has more than three wires running through the same ⅞ inch hole in the wall.

 

Illegal Splices

One of the worst code violations is a splice. This is a connection between two or more wires and is extremely dangerous if not contained inside a junction box.

When to Hire an Electrician to Avoid This Code Violation: If you have any wire splices in your home that are not through a junction box.

 

Need an electrician to fix these problems in your home? Call Philip M. Brunelli Jr. Electrician today! 508-400-5571

landscape lighting

Why You Should Invest In Landscape Lighting

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Enhance Your Homes Visual Aesthetic

Landscape lighting can show off the interesting details of your home’s architecture, accentuating your front door and showing off your beautiful landscaping. This lighting can make a home stand out from the rest of the neighborhood at night, creating a more inviting and homey feeling.

Expand the Usability of Your Outdoor Spaces

Summer is all about grilling and hanging outdoors. In this case, landscape lighting is essential. You will most likely use your outdoor patio or pool deck area more if it is well lit and you can relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Increase the Safeness in Your Yard

Landscape lighting for either a home or office can decrease the chances of you or a guest tripping or falling on an outdoor walkway when it’s dark out. It can also decrease the chances of your home or business being broken into. Thieves will usually chose a dark house as an easy target, making well-lit houses unattractive to them. Although it can’t prevent crime, it can make a criminal think twice before trying to break in.

Here at Philip M. Brunelli Electrician, we have significant experience in installing landscape lighting for residential and commercial buildings. If you’re looking to install landscape lighting in your home or business, contact us today! 508-400-5571

LED recessed light trim

The Benefits of LED Recessed Light Trims

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LED recessed lights are quickly becoming a popular option for lighting fixtures in homes because of their longevity and energy savings. LED stands for Light Emitting Diode, which means they have a computer chip semiconductor diode that emits light. We provide quality LED all-in-one trims that last. These all-in-one trims are LED light bulbs with the trim already attached, making installation a breeze.

These all-in-one trims are not obtrusive, illuminating a room with lighting that can be controlled for the task at hand. They can also have the option of being dimmable in order to change the intensity of the light to suit your needs. The dimming of LED lights uses a solid-state technology to eliminate flickering.

This lighting option is a great choice for those who are interested in environmental concerns and keeping electric bills low. LED lights are known for conserving energy, which can save you a significant amount of money in the long run. They can save up to 85% of the electricity that incandescent light bulbs use.

LED lights have a longer lifespan than conventional light bulbs because they burn at a much cooler temperature. This is also a great safety feature because you can install LED lights where other light bulbs are unsafe. They can last about 50 times longer, meaning less maintenance and time spent on changing out light bulbs.

Here at Philip M. Brunelli Jr. Electrician, our highly trained technicians neatly and safely install LED light trims in residential and commercial buildings. We make sure to protect your floors and leave no mess behind. If you’re in need of LED recessed lighting, give us a call today! 508-400-5571

office lighting

Does Your Office Lighting Need Improvement?

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Many people do not understand the effect that lighting has on us. Our body clock is set by Circadian rhythms, which are determined by light and dark. This is why our body’s are accustom to sleeping when it’s dark out, and staying awake when it’s light out. If we are in a room that has poor lighting, our body naturally becomes tired. Good office lighting has been shown to improve productivity; which is why it is important to have suitable task lighting, ceiling lighting, and even wall lighting.

The intensity and type of light that we use during the workday can have a major impact on our health. It’s easy to understand why employees don’t want to be in a working environment that’s too dim; it can negatively affect worker productivity and the quality of work they produce.

Symptoms caused from poor lighting in the office include:

  • Headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Eye strain
  • Watery or burning eyes

To find out if your office is suffering from poor lighting, ask your employees if they suffer from any of these symptoms. Do they find themselves squinting throughout the day in order to see things more clearly? Do they have a headache at the end of the day after staring at their computer screen? Maybe it’s time for your office to improve its interior lighting! Contact Phillip M. Brunelli Jr. Electrician today for more information on interior office lighting! 508-400-5571