Electrical Safety Tips for Your Holidays

Professional Electricians in Virginia Beach, Keeping Homes and Businesses Safe

Celebrating the holidays should be a fun and festive time for families and friends. From magical holiday lights to shared feasts, it’s a great time of year. Unfortunately, it’s also a very busy time of year for electrical hazards and house fires too. Nipper Electric is committed to keeping the Virginia Beach area safe during every season. To help you through the holiday season, we’ve got a quick list of electrical safety tips.

The Most Important List You’ll See This Year

Keeping your homes and businesses safe is a top priority for the experienced staff at Nipper Electric. Keep this list close to you to help provide your home or office with extra safety, it could be the most important list you see this year.

• Watch Your Circuits & Panels- During winter, it is so easy for panels and circuits to become overheated. Just think about it. Your heat is running, lights are on longer, more appliances are going, decorations are on. All these electrical demands add to the load your panel is already carrying. This can cause your panels. Avoid dangerous overheating by:
  
  • Annually having your wiring and electrical system checked.
  
  
  • Look for signs of sparking, arcing, hot receptacles, and/or loose plugs. Call a professional electrician like Nipper Electric for help immediately. These are big issues that easily start fires and can be caused by your overheated panel.
  
  
  • When possible, use batteries to operate decorations.
  
  
  • Know your panel. Know the load capacity of your panel and how old it is. It might be time for a panel upgrade.
  
  
  • Don’t plug in more than three strands of lights at a time. More lights can cause a fire or blow a fuse. If you have a big display you are planning, consult an expert on your electrical load first.
  
  

• Check for Fire Hazards!- Make sure you aren’t leaving things around that could become a big fire hazard. Here are things to look for.
  
  • Clothes or materials next to heat sources.
  
  
  • Faulty wiring.
  
  
  • Cords that can be tripped over.
  
  
  • Stripped or damaged cords.
  
  
  • Buzzing sounds from plugs when in use.
  
  
  • Overused sockets. Too many appliances in one socket can cause big problems.
  
  
  • Extension Cords. Throw out old extension cords that are worn or torn. Don’t place cords under carpets.
  
  

• Overused Outlets– It’s a pretty common sight over the holidays. One outlet with 4 or 5 things plugged into it. This can cause overheating, sparking, blown fuses, burnt out appliances, and a whole lot more. Keep the outlet use to a reasonable amount. If it’s a big problem, look into adding outlets for this season and the entire year.

• Corrosion, Loose Connections, & Bad Wiring– Older homes built before 1972 often used aluminum wiring. This product was more affordable but also can cause some issues in your home. As the seasons change the wires expand and contract, this causes creeping, where the wires start to creep out of their attachments. This creates loose connections which can cause many other electrical issues. With aluminum wiring, you also have to worry about corrosion. Though both aluminum and copper wiring corrode, the white oxide of aluminum wiring doesn’t conduct electricity. This can make your electrical outlets stop connecting to the source.

• Space Heaters- While space heaters are safe options for adding a little extra heat to rooms, they can cause big issues. Make sure you:
  
  • Don’t leave them running.
  
  
  • Don’t leave them unattended.
  
  
  • Don’t place them near curtains, clothes, furniture, or bed clothes.
  
  

• Practice Christmas Tree Safety – If you’re going to use a natural Christmas Tree, make sure it stays watered. The heat from light bulbs, even the low energy ones, can cause the needles to catch on fire. When they start burning, they can be up in flames in a flash. Be careful with artificial trees as well, watch that bulbs don’t get too warm and keep an eye on your tree.

Have a Safe and Happy Holiday

The family at Nipper Electric wants to wish you and your family a happy and safe holiday season. If you are having any of the issues we mentioned or just have some concerns or questions, call us today at 757-842-1710. You can even make an appointment online while you relax. Remember, no job is too big or too small. We love keeping Virginia Beach safe.

Electrical Safety Tips for Your Holidays

Extension Cord Safety Tips

Avoiding the Common Tangles of Electric Cords

It’s that time of year again. All over the country, people are dragging out their extension cords. From holiday lighting to home use to outdoor equipment, extension cords are extremely handy. However, these cords can also be big hazards and even loss of power when not used properly. Nipper Electric wants to be sure your home or business stays safe long after the lights and seasonal decorations are put away. Here are some of the dangers of extension cord use and tips for how to avoid them.

Dangers of Extension Cords

There’s no doubt that using an expanded cord can be a great tool for all sorts of projects around your home or business. But, like anything else, if not used correctly these cords can cause big trouble.

• Exposed Wiring- During storage, these cords can become torn or damaged. As you unpack your cords, double check each part for the following.
  
  • Tears
  
  
  • Worn Edges
  
  
  • Melted Areas
  
  
  • Scorching
  
  

If you see any of these things, get rid of the old cord and start fresh with a new cord.

• Overheating- A common issue for expanded cords is overheating. In fact, one of the most common fire hazards comes from overheated extension cords. Most often, overheating occurs because the load the cord can hold is exceeded. When the cord becomes overwhelmed, the casing can become warm or hot, causing the plastic to melt or sparks to start.

• Short Circuiting– Another common issue that happens with cords is short circuiting. When the cord becomes overloaded the current can run along pathways that it shouldn’t. This can quickly cause fires or electrical injuries.

• Tripping– A lot of people leave their cords out, lying in walkways or in the middle of the floor. In fact, over 4,000 cord injuries happen from tripping alone. Find a way to put the cord out of the way without covering it.

Tips to Keep Your Extension Cord Safe

Not knowing extension cord safety can lead to the dangers we’ve already discussed. Here are the best tips for extension cord safety.

• Never Use Torn Cords- If your cord has chew marks, melted parts, exposed wires, or torn areas, toss it. The money you think you may be saving can’t make up for the risks you are taking.

• Know the Gauge– The best way to avoid overheating is to know what gauge of wire is in the cord. The wire gauge lets you know how much power the cord can handle. The smaller the number on the cord, the more power it can carry. Once you know the gauge, be sure you know how much electrical power is needed by the appliance or device you are going to plug in. Here’s how you can calculate the right gauge for your needs.

• Never Use Temporary Cords for a Permanent Job!– These cords are meant for use over a short period. They should not be used as a solution to electrical problems. If your outlets aren’t convenient or you find yourself using extension cords longer, look into receptacle installations. They are affordable, easy, and can actually save you money.

• Be Careful Where You Place Cords– Cords can become warm from use. Make sure you NEVER Put Cords Under Rugs! Also, keep cords away from clothing, curtains, and other flammable objects.

• Use the Right Cord–  You may not know this, but not all cords are meant to be used outside or have waterproofing. Make sure the cord you use is the right one for the job.

• Don’t Stack Cords- Using one cord on another on another on another is not the right way to extend your electrical power. When you stack cords, the voltage can drop with each additional cord. Simply make sure the cord you are using is long enough for the space you need.

As you get your electrical cords out, take a quick look over them. Note the gauge, the length, and look for damage. You’ll be safer and happier with the results. If you have any questions or concerns about your electrical wiring, please call Nipper Electric right away. We offer dependable, professional electrical services at realistic prices. Call us at 757-842-1710 or make an appointment online. We want to keep your power on and your home running all year.

Extension Cord Safety Tips

Top Holiday Crime Prevention Tips

Professional Electricians Help Keep Virginia Beach Safe

Nipper Electric loves our neighbors and friends here in Virginia Beach, so we’ve want to share some top holiday crime prevention tips to keep you and your families safe. Have a strategy and taking a few precautions with your lighting or alarm systems can help prevent theft.

Don’t Be Scared, Be Prepared

The holiday shopping season is just about to begin and with all that hustle and bustle comes much higher rates for theft. In fact, in some areas, you are almost 50% more likely to be a victim of theft during this time of year. Your safety is important to us. Please follow these tips and stay aware this holiday season.

Shopping Safety Tips for the Holiday Season

• Shop in Groups or Pairs- If it is possible, find a shopping buddy. Large groups or even pairs of people are less likely to be robbed.

• Stay Aware– If you’re with a friend or alone, always be aware of your surroundings. Watch the areas around you, notice people that seem out of place. Always know the following things:
  
  • Where your car is parked.
  
  
  • Where your keys are.
  
  
  • Where your phone is.
  
  
  • Who is near you or behind you.
  
  
  • Where the nearest safe place is from where you are (a security desk, mall entrance, police station, etc.)
  
  

• Be Ready– If you’re heading to your car, make sure your keys are out and you are ready to enter your car.

• Park in Well-Lit Areas– Find a space that is located under or near a good lighting source. Criminals are often deterred by proper lighting. If your business doesn’t have enough outdoor lighting, contact Nipper Electric and we can help you create better safety measures for your clients and staff. We can also install timers and/or sensors to your personal security lighting if needed.

• Keep Packages and Valuables Hidden– Make sure any valuables or recently purchased items are out of sight when you park your car. One valuable item can lead to a break-in. For more information on what thieves are looking for this season, here’s a guide to the top items stolen during the holiday season.

• Keep Your Money Close– If you carry a purse, make sure it is kept close to your body. Also, store your wallet within an inside pocket of your coat. When possible, don’t carry large amounts of cash. Criminals are looking for an easy job with a good payoff. Keep your money out of their line of sight. Businesses and companies can look for more security with extra information storage spaces, like generators or additional data spaces.

• Avoid Purchasing & Carrying Lots of Items– If you can, try to streamline your shopping, or find trusted people to help you carry your items to your car. If you are a family business or retail company, have a member of staff readily available to assist customers. As a client, make sure you know the helpful staff works for the business, don’t allow just anyone to carry your packages.

• Shopping With Children– If you have children shopping with you, make sure you have a plan for if you get separated.
  
  • Tell them a safe place to meet you if they can’t find you.
  
  
  • Make sure they know who to go to when they feel unsafe or lost. Usually a security officer, store guard, or store clerk.
  
  

Safety Starts with a Smart Strategy

The holiday season has a higher crime rate than most other seasons. However, if you are prepared, you can avoid theft and dangerous situations. Nipper Electric is here for the Virginia Beach Community. We will help you protect your home or business and work to prevent crime. Call us today at 757-842-1710 or make an appointment online to find out how we can increase your home or office security.

Top Holiday Crime Prevention Tips

Meter Box Replacement

Meter-Box/Base Repairs and Replacement Norfolk, Chesapeake & Virginia Beach

Often ignored, meter boxes are a vital part of electrical supply and safety for any home or office. Unlike your meter, meter boxes are not owned or operated by your local utility company. If something goes wrong with your meter box, it’s up to you to repair or replace them. Luckily, Virginia Beach trusted electricians Nipper Electric can help you with all your meter box needs. We offer the best in Virginia Beach electrical services, including:

• Over 18 years of local experience


• Licenses in Electrical, Class B Contractor, and Master Electrician


• Use Top Brand Names


• Clear Cut Pricing


• Free Estimates


• Warranties on Labor

Whatever happens with your meter box or meter base, you can be sure the professionals at Nipper Electric can handle it.

How Meter Bases Work

The meter base or meter box provides housing for your electrical meter. The meter box works to prevent water and other elements from entering the meter or electrical supply and damaging wiring in your home. Meter boxes have special requirements to ensure safety. They must be placed a certain length away from the ground, gutters, decks and other obstacles that could provide easy access for water or erosion to damage the meter box. The box must also be properly grounded to prevent electrical shocks or power surges. Damage or wear and tear on meter boxes could lead to serious hazards for your home.

The Dangers of Meter Damage

Over time, meter boxes can become loose, damaged, or just wear out. When these things happen your home or office can become a danger zone for shocks, electrocution, and fire. Some of the issues you will need to repair include:

• Water Leaks–  Everyone knows that electricity and water don’t mix. Water or moisture in your meter box can mean damage to wiring throughout your home and potentially deadly shocks. Gaps or tears in your meter box can allow small amounts of water to seep in and corrode your wiring or even get into your plugs. If you notice any areas where water may be entering your meter box, avoid using any outlets and call your professional electrician like Nipper Electric right away.

• Burns – If you have seen any burning or singed marks at the box or on the wires coming out of it, you might have some these issues:

• Rodents chewing through wiring.


• Improper wiring in the box


• Loose lugs or joints


• Overloaded Circuits


• Overheating

All of these issues can cause fires, shocks, or further damage to your wiring. Call your electrician immediately.

• Rust- Where this is rust, there is water. You’ll need to know where the water is coming from so any further repairs or precautions can be done immediately. Rust on meter boxes can be caused through loose weather-heads, openings in the box or a persistent drip that is hitting your meter box. Rust leads to corrosion and weakens the meter box, it will need to be fixed as soon as possible.

• Wear and Tear– Sometimes nothing happens to a meter box. It simply wears down over time. If this is the case, you’ll still need to replace the box or base to keep preventing water leaks and electrical damage.

Keeping Virginia Beach Electrical Services Safe

Even though meter boxes are overlooked, they serve a very important purpose. Protecting your home. Call Nipper Electric at 757-842-1710 immediately if you notice any damage to your meter box, or you can make an appointment online. We can get started today. We even do emergency repairs when necessary. Nothing is more important than the safety of your family, friends and your home.

Our Services

RESIDENTIAL ELECTRICAL SERVICES

Aluminum wiringBathroom exhaust fansCarbon monoxide detectorsChandelier InstallationDimmer InstallationDock Electrical WiringFan installationsFlat screen TV installationElectrical TroubleshootingGenerator InstallationLandscape lightingLED Light ConversionLighting upgradesOutdoor security lightingPanel upgradesPathway LightingPool and hot tub wiringPool Light ReplacementPower OutageRecessed LightingReceptacle installationSolarTrack LightingUnder Cabinet LightingVehicle charging stations

COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL SERVICES

Service repairsLighting ballastsPower polesRelampingDedicated circuitsTehnical troubleshootingLighting installation

 

Meter Box Replacement

Saving Money During the Holiday Season

Top Professional Tips for Seasonal Cutting Energy Costs

The holidays are here and budgets are often stretched. From gifts to celebrations to bigger heating and electrical costs, the holidays can really take a toll on your bank account. But what if there were a way to cut costs without missing out on holiday fun? As professional electricians in the Virginia Beach area, Nipper Electric has experience cutting costs for our clients. We want to help you with your holiday costs too. Here are a few of our top tips for saving money during the holidays.

• Choose Lighting Carefully- If you haven’t already, the holidays are a great time to start using low-cost lighting. Even switching from regular incandescent lights to CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Lights) can save you almost 70% on energy usage. Converting to LED lights can save you even more energy use and last over 17,000 hours longer than CFLs.

• Christmas Lights Can Still Shine!– You don’t have to give up your holiday sparkle to save money. Simply change out those old bulbs to LED lights. These lights will save you money throughout the season. Want to save even more? Try some solar powered holiday lights for your home or office.

• Timers and Dimmers– You can cut down part of your electrical costs when you install and use options like timers, sensors, and dimmers on your lights. Timers will turn your lights on at regular times of use while you are away from the home to discourage break-ins. Sensors can be used on lights in bathrooms, hallways, and security lighting to turn on or off when someone is present. Lights will be left on less, outdoor security will be more focused, and night lighting can be more convenient for guests. Dimmers can help adjust lights throughout the day to use energy in the most efficient way. Nipper Electric has installation and programming services for all of these options.

• Unplug Appliances– Even when your appliances are not in use, they can still draw power through the outlet. This phantom power equals to about 15% of your energy usage. Unplugging devices, appliances, and even lighting can help you save money throughout the year.

• Keep Your Heating Inside– Heating costs can be cut down by using special curtains. Insulated curtains or blackout curtains will prevent the cool from seeping into your home and the heat from leaking out. This can cut 25% or more of your heating costs!

• Consider Smartening Up Your Home– Even just one or two smart devices for your home can make a big difference in energy costs. It could be as simple as installing and setting up a programmable thermostat. This will help keep the house warm while you are there and use less energy while you are gone. You can even program your thermostat to gradually warm up while you’re on your ride home.

• Use Big Appliances in Off Hours– Many power companies have peak hours when they charge more for energy usage. Avoid extra costs by trying to use bigger appliances during off-peak hours.

Simple Adjustments Can Save You a Lot of Change

The holidays should be a time of relaxation and fun, not of worry. Using the tips we’ve shared could help you save time, energy, and money. If you have any questions or are interested in making some changes, call Nipper Electric today at 757-842-1710. Or you can make an appointment online. No job is too big or too small, we can handle them all!

Saving Money During the Holiday Season

Electrical Updates Just In Time for Holiday Guests

Professional Electricians Get Your Home Holiday Ready

With the beginning of the holiday season comes the arrival of guests. Sometimes entertaining can be overwhelming. Nipper Electric wants to make your holiday season as happy and safe as possible, so we’ve come up with a few easy updates that can be done quickly before your guests arrive.

Simple Updates Make Holidays Easier

The holidays are always busy and added guests can make your home even busier. Here’s our list of quick and easy upgrades that can help you welcome guests and keep up with the busy season.

• Ceiling Fans- For easier and even personalized climate control, ceiling fans can help everyone feel comfortable. Adding one to your family room, den, or guest room can help cut down on heating costs and keep everyone cozy.

• USB Receptacles- Guests come with their devices; tablets, phones, computers. They will all need a place to charge their favorite gadgets. Instead of fighting over charging space, have a couple of receptacles installed with USB ports in easy to find places. Getting a USB receptacle is quick and easy, plus after guests have left you’ll have easy to use charging stations!

• Pathway Lighting– With guests coming and going, safety and comfort are more important during the holiday season. Icy paths or uneven walkways could spell disaster for your holiday guests. Pathway lighting is easily added or upgraded to help everyone stay safe during winter celebrations.

• Flat Screen TVs– Depending on what you and your guests love, Thanksgiving is the day to watch Parades or catch up on Bowl Games! What better way to enjoy these annual traditions than with a fully mounted and programmed Flat Screen TV? You can also have a sound system installed and set up to enhance the experience. Nipper Electric offers both of these services if you decide to add them to your home.

• Kitchen Lighting– Kitchens are extremely busy during the holiday season. Having suitable lighting could not only save you time and money, it could also keep you and your guests safe. Consider adding some recessed lighting over work areas. If you haven’t already, add some under cabinet lighting to make for a safer prep area.

• LED Conversions– From heating to cooking to lighting, energy use is way up during the holidays. Investing in these LED Conversions can help you cut down on costs with a simple installation.

• Security & Safety– The holiday season is one of the top times for break-ins. Protect your home with a combination of Outdoor Security Lighting and Security Alarms. Outdoor Security Lighting will guard your entrances and exits. These lights can be set up with sensors, timers, or a combination of both. Security Alarms can be installed in your home and come with smart options that can help you monitor your home even while you’re away on vacation. Both can be installed quickly and easily before your first guests arrive.

Easy Holiday Season With Quick and Simple Installs

The holiday season always seems to sneak up on us. Before you know it, the first guest is arriving and you are behind schedule. Nipper Electric can help you stay on schedule and make your holiday season stress-free with a  few additions, upgrades, or installs. Call us today at 757-842-1710 and we’ll get your home holiday ready in no time. Or you can make an appointment online while you make your shopping list or plan for that upcoming bowl game!

Electrical Updates Just In Time for Holiday Guests

Electrically Safe Workplace

Creating a Safe and Efficient Workplace

Let’s face it, this time of year is busy for everyone. The end of year preparations begins as we get ready for taxes, tie up projects and still try to celebrate the holidays. As a family owned electrical business, Nipper Electric knows the challenges business owners face during this busy season. We want to get your business running smoothly and safely during the holiday season. From outdoor security lighting to indoor alarms, a few changes and adjustments can make all the difference.

Safety Always Comes First

Creating a safe environment for your staff and clients is always priority number one for any business owner. Double check these important safety measures.

• Prevention Measures- Businesses and offices must keep their fire alarms, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors working and up to date. Using the right alarms in the right areas can not only save your business, but also the lives of your employees and clients.

• Emergency Plans– Your company should have multiple, clear and visible fire emergency plans. These plans should be easily read and understood to make sure that everyone knows where to go in the event of a fire. There should also be clear plans for other disasters such as flooding or tornadoes.

• Emergency Lighting– Solar powered lights or generator backed emergency lighting should be installed professionally. These emergency lights will get everyone to safety in the case of an emergency. They will also cut down on panic and confusion should anything shut off lighting.

• Appropriate and Active Security Lighting– Security lighting needs to be well placed and up to date. Have lighting in the following areas:
  
  • All Exits and Entrances – This is where most crimes occur. Make sure the area is well-lit and free of debris.
  
  
  • Parking Lots– To help both with crime prevention and to help with pathway lighting.
  
  
  • Hallways– Hallway security lighting can help deter criminals and keep clients and employees safe.
  
  

Make sure lighting is not too bright or too dim. Overly bright lighting creates shadows and dark spaces where criminals can hide. Lighting that is too dim makes visibility difficult and can help criminals as well.

• Alarms- A properly installed alarm can scare away intruders, alert the authorities, and give your staff vital extra minutes to escape or hide.

Efficiency is Always Effective

All offices strive to be effective and efficient. Efficiency helps productivity and creates a positive atmosphere for both employees and clients. Here are a few small things that can boost efficiency in your office.

• Proper Lighting- Having appropriate lighting can greatly increase productivity and lower operating costs. Lighting that is too dim will make employees and customers tired and make them strain to see work or products. Bright lighting that is blinding can cause headaches. Look into LED conversions for more affordable lighting that is also comfortable.  You can also install timers and dimmers to help save even more money.

• Comfortable Temperature Settings– A lot of offices and businesses struggle with finding the right setting for workspaces. Every office is different, but a programmable thermostat can help you trim your electric bill while still keeping the temperatures comfortable. People are more productive in a comfortable setting. A setting that is too hot often makes people lethargic while one that is too cold can have them preoccupied with getting warm.

• A Special Space to Regroup and Refresh– Every office needs a place for employees to recharge during the day. It could be a break room, conference room, or courtyard. Whatever type of recharging area you have, consider including a flat screen TV, comfortable seating, and comfortable lighting. Try to keep work out of this room as much as possible so your staff can fully refresh and regroup before they return to work.

• Generators- Generators are not just for emergencies, though they are important tools during any unexpected crisis. These machines can also create surplus power for your office. Even more importantly, generators can help back up your data so nothing is ever lost or damaged.

Small Changes Make Big Differences

Even just a few small changes can make a big difference in your office or business. Always put safety first, for your staff and your clients. Don’t forget to include comfortable lighting, temperature and a nice place to relax. You’ll soon find your staff and customers are happier and busier than ever. If you have any questions about your commercial or municipal electrical needs, call Nipper Electric right away at 757-842-1710.  You can even make an appointment online, we can’t wait to hear from you.

Electrically Safe Workplace