Beneficial Home Upgrades to Make This Year
Many people set goals and make resolutions at the beginning of the year. Some may be about fitness or things to do around the home, while others may relate to neglected electrical upgrades that electricians can easily remedy. This post will share some beneficial electrical upgrades homeowners may want to add to their list.
Install Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans may not be something homeowners think would benefit their air-conditioned household. However, ceiling fan installation can be beneficial year-round if homeowners know how to utilize them correctly. In the summer, set fans to turn counterclockwise to push cool air downward. The resulting draft has a cooling effect that makes spaces more comfortable. Then, when the heater is on in winter, ceiling fans should spin clockwise. This updraft circulates warm air from the ceiling downwards to distribute the heat better and make the space feel warmer.
Because ceiling fans can make a big difference in home comfort, they prevent heaters and air conditioners from having to work harder and allow for temperatures on the thermostat to be adjusted to save energy and reduce utility bills. Countless models exist to fit any home design.
Upgrade Lights and Switches
Lighting upgrades like retrofitting the home with LED lighting are also beneficial. Switching to LED lights can improve energy efficiency and reduce electric bills. They also have a longer lifespan than traditional incandescent light bulbs.
Installing LED light bulbs also allows for a wide range of lighting color options and brightness customization through dimmable switches. Installing dimmer switches can be a great upgrade to allow for different lighting for different times of day or moods.
Replace Old or Compromised Wiring and Outlets
Replacing the outlets and wiring in a home can be extremely beneficial when they are old or damaged. Electrical outlets typically last 15 to 25 years. However, one bad outlet can affect other outlets in a home, so if outlets are nearing their life expectancy or there is a faulty or damaged outlet in the home, an electrician should be called to inspect and replace it. Electrical wiring lasts longer, typically 25 to 40 years. However, typically, rewiring is needed around every 25 years or when the wiring is damaged.
Old or damaged outlets and wiring can pose serious hazards. They can cause electrical shocks, overheating, and even fires. Faulty wiring can also lead to power outages and other electrical problems. It's important to have old or compromised wiring and outlets inspected and replaced by a qualified electrician to ensure the safety of a household and its residents.
About Postma Heating & Cooling
Postma Heating & Cooling is a family-owned plumbing, air conditioning, heating, and electrical company serving the Chatham-Kent area. They offer flat-rate pricing and same-day service. Call them for electrical services in Chatham-Kent, ON.
