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

Under Cabinet Lighting

We Install Under Cabinet Lighting in Virginia Beach, Norfolk & Chesapeake, Viriginia

For many kitchens, lighting can be tricky to design. You want to provide proper lighting to help with food preparation but also create a relaxing and beautiful atmosphere. Under Cabinet Lighting can create safe lighting and comfortable beauty in your kitchen. Nipper Electric provides the Virginia Beach area with trusted electrical services, including:

• Under Cabinet Lighting Installation


• Lighting Design Options


• Free Estimates


• Receptacle Installations


• Rewiring


• Electrical Troubleshooting


• Energy Efficient and Green Electrical Options


• Experienced and Licensed Electrician

There have recently been an increase of articles providing top tips to improve your home’s value. Updating and adding kitchen lighting is one of the most common tips across all, where homeowners will boost value of their home without braking the bank.

The Norfolk and Virginia Beach area is our home too. We work, play and live here. It is a joy and privilege making each home and office we serve, more electrically efficient, safer and comfortable.

What is Under Cabinet Lighting?

Just like it sounds, under cabinet lighting installations are lights that have been placed under cabinets. These lights create a focused lighting option over counter spaces and workspaces.

Under cabinet lighting should be as slim and low profile as possible. You’ll still want plenty of room to complete kitchen tasks. You’ll also want lights that are focused but not too bright. There are many different options to choose from to get just the right lighting for your kitchen or workspace.

• LED– LED under cabinet lights come in multiple options. They can be easily installed light strips, plugins or wired lighting, with our without dimming. Strips are easier to install and use batteries but don’t last as long as your plugins or wired lighting. LED wired installations cost more money in the beginning but save more money as you use them. LED’s are being most popular in recent years due to lower energy consumption and low heat output. Most common are:
  
  
  

  • LED rope or tape
  
  
  • LED recessed trims
  
  
  • LED under cabinet lights
  
  

• Halogen– Halogen lights come in many different sizes and varieties for under cabinet lighting. Most often, they are puck containers wired into the cabinetry. Halogen lights create softer pools of warm lighting, making them perfect for layering in any room. Depending on your task, you may feel that they are not bright enough. However, halogen lights last longer and cost less after initial installation costs.

• Flourescents-Traditionally popular, fluorescent under cabinet lighting can be more difficult to change due to unusual light bulb or tube sizes. They are also less energy efficient than Halogen or LED lights. The light that is given off is also less attractive than either Halogen or LED lighting. These light were very popular a decade ago, but recently fluorescents are being replaced with all recessed LED or Halogen cans.

Each of these options can be used with dimmers to make them more flexible for lighting needs. They can also be layered to create the perfect kitchen lighting design.

In Cabinet Lighting

While you’re thinking of under cabinet lighting, it’s important to consider the option of in-cabinet lighting. These lights are placed sleekly inside cabinets. They can be used in glass cabinets to showcase favorite items or even in pantry cabinets and under sinks to provide better lighting for hard to see areas. Pucks or light strips are usually used for in-cabinet lighting and display lighting. In cabinet lighting is great for kitchen cabinets, pantries, studies, offices or any place you store a lot of items.

Professional Virginia Beach Kitchen Lighting

Whatever option you choose, under cabinet lighting can save you money and add value to your home. Nipper Electric is ready to help you with your under cabinet lighting installations. Let us make your home safe and functional. Call us today at 757-842-1710 to get your under cabinets lighting done right. Or you can make an appointment online. We will help you find the perfect lighting design for your kitchen.

 

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 LightingVehicle charging stations

COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL SERVICES

Service repairsLighting ballastsPower polesRelampingDedicated circuitsTehnical troubleshootingLighting installation

Under Cabinet Lighting

Safety Tips for Your Holiday Season

Keep Your Home Safe During This Busy Season

Holiday Season is right around the corner. Family and friend will start gathering together to enjoy seasonal treats from Halloween to New Year’s Eve. Unfortunately, this busy time of year comes with quite a few hazards. Nipper Electric loves the holidays in Virginia Beach. We want to be sure you and your loved ones enjoy a safe and happy holiday season this year and every year. To help you protect your family and friends, we’ve prepared a quick guide to follow while cooking.

Top Cooking Safety Tips

Home fires increase during the holiday months, particularly from cooking. When you start cooking or preparing for big holiday gatherings, make sure your keep this checklist handy.

• Make Plenty of Space to Work– Clutter creates dangerous situations. Too many items in the kitchen can cause nasty falls, melting utensils, even start a fire. Prepare your workspace, get rid of everything you don’t need and leave the decorations to other areas of the home.

• Don’t Overload Receptacles- A regular plug or receptacle should be used carefully, particularly in the kitchen. Too many appliances plugged in can damage the receptacle and cause sparks, tripped circuits and overheating. If you don’t feel like you have enough receptacles or your receptacles aren’t convenient, Nipper Electric can safely and quickly install extra receptacles to handle the appropriate load.

• Divide and Conquer- If you have a lot of dishes on your menu, delegate and/or cook ahead. A lot of side dishes can be easily prepared before the big day then reheated deliciously right before meal time. You can also delegate other dishes to guests. Doing a little at a time before the meal will not only be safer, it will also take a lot of stress off of you.

• Focus! Focus! Focus!- Don’t try to do too many things at once. This includes watching TV or entertaining guests while cooking. But especially, never ever leave cooking unattended. This is the number one cause of kitchen fires.

• Crowd Control- Too many cooks in the kitchen is a big mistake. Try to have other activities for your guests if they are going to be in your home while you are preparing the meal. If you have different people helping in preparations, have stations for everyone with everything they need. This will keep you from tripping over each other or possibly burning or scalding anyone while cooking.

• Smoke Alarms & Carbon Monoxide Detectors- Make sure your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are up to date and ready to go! It only takes a couple of minutes and could save your life.  If you don’t have either or both of these, your professional electrician in Virginia Beach can quickly install them. They will make sure the alarm fits your home and is placed in the right place. Be sure to design a fire escape plan for all your guests.

• Exhaust Fans-  When you’re doing a lot of cooking, a properly installed exhaust fan is vital. These devices will help you keep steam, smoke, and general odors from overwhelming your home. They also protect your walls and surfaces from mold and deterioration.

Keep Your Holidays Safe As You Cook

Holiday meals are favorites we look forward to all year long. From pumpkin spice to yule logs, we just can’t get enough of these seasonal dishes. Make sure your home stays safe while you entertain your guests with careful preparation. If you have any questions or concerns about your home’s electrical or if you need to add some safety measures, Nipper Electric is here to help.  We have provided trusted electrical services to the Virginia Beach area for over 15 years. Call us today at 757-842-1710 or schedule an appointment online. We can handle any job, no matter how big or small.

Safety Tips for Your Holiday Season

Top Electrical DIY Dangers

Professional Electricians Provide Safety First

Many people love to do DIY projects around the house. While doing it yourself can be a great hobby, electrical projects come with many dangers. Nipper Electric offer a wide range of commercial and residential services to keep you from worrying about these dangers. We are dedicated to keeping you safe, so we’ve compiled a list of the biggest electrical DIY dangers.

Top Dangers in Electrical DIY Projects

• Wrong Wires– Using the wrong wire for a project can really cause problems. If the wire gauge is too small for the electrical flow, the wire can become overheated. Overheated wires can cause:
  
  
  

  • Melted Insulation
  
  
  • Sparking
  
  
  • Exposed Wires
  
  
  • House Fires
  
  

• Junction Box Mistakes–  One of the most common mistakes that electricians find are floating or hidden junction boxes. Junction boxes must be properly supported to prevent sparking. If you have a junction box that is floating, it can create an opportunity for wires to rub against each other. Rubbing wires cause sparks, sparks cause fires. Hidden junction boxes occur often when people cover up the boxes during remodeling or renovation projects, then you have a junction box that isn’t accessible.

• Electrical Tape and More Electrical Tape– There is no doubt that electrical tape can come in handy. However, there are a lot of instances where electrical is used improperly or over-used. When you have electrical tape holding together twisted wires, you run the hazard of creating loose connections. These loose connections can lead to overheating. Electrical tape is not a substitute for proper wiring, so be sure you have a professional electrician check your wiring for you.

• Inspection and Codes– Professional electricians make it their business to know the latest codes and understand inspection requirements. Often, electricians find DIY projects that don’t follow electrical code. When the owner goes to put a house on the market, they’ll find that they are in for a lot more work before it can pass inspection.

• Missing GFCI Outlets– Any area near water needs a GFI or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter receptacle or outlet. These outlets are able to stop a nasty shock before they begin by sensing a change in the level of electricity flowing through the outlet. The GFCI outlet quickly shuts down the circuit, usually in less than 1/10th of a second.  A lot of do it yourselfers don’t think to put in a GFCI outlet outside, near sinks, or near windows, where frost can melt and create dangerous situations. Nipper Electric offers a variety of receptacle installations that will meet your needs.

• Lost Time and Money– This isn’t a danger, but it is an issue that comes up time and time again. Many ambitious DIY projects end up with an electrician repairing damage or finishing the project. Homeowners start the project then get too mixed up or busy to finish it. Even worse, they improperly install something and the project needs to be repaired in order to be safe. In the end, people find that they would have spent less time, had less stress, and saved a lot more money.

When It Comes to Electrical Projects, Stay Safe with Professional Help

Electrical projects of any size are often best left to the professionals. Besides the obvious damage and dangers improper wiring can bring to your home, the entire electrical process requires a skilled and experienced hand. Leave your electrical projects to your trusted Virginia Beach electrician at Nipper Electric.  We will work with you to provide clear-cut pricing and a finished project you can trust. Call us today at 757-842-1710 with your latest project ideas. You can also make an appointment online in the comfort of your home. We can handle any job, big or small.

Top Electrical DIY Dangers

Fall is the Time to Get Ready for Winter

Professional Electricians Keep Your Home Safe In all Weather

As the season changes and weather turns cooler, it’s the perfect time to get your home prepared for winter. Make a fall cleanup part of your seasonal plans every year with the help of a professional electrician, like Nipper Electric. Our experienced and licensed team of professional electricians can get your home winter ready with a fall checkup. Your safety is our top priority, so we’ve come up with a few tips to help you get winter ready before it’s too late.

Avoid Electrical Issues By Preparing For Winter Now

Along the Virginia Beach coast, the weather can be unpredictable during winter. Snowy days mixed with the moisture from the ocean can create dangerous ice conditions. The last thing you want during these winter storms is to have an electrical issue. Here’s the best way to prepare for winter with a fall cleanup and checkup:

• Check for Loose or Long Branches– Iced over branches can become heavy overnight. When these branches snap, they can land anywhere. On your car, on your roof, or even across power lines and cables. Be sure the branches surrounding your home are healthy, trimmed, and short enough for winter. If the branches intersect or are close to power lines or cables, alert your electric company.

• Look for Cracks, Tears, and Erosion- Electrical cables, wiring, outlets, and connectors wear down over time. Be sure to look for any cracks or corrosion on electrical surfaces. Have them repaired immediately. You could be saving a life. Take a close look at the following areas:

• Meter Boxes


• Weatherheads


• Cables


• Outdoor Outlets


• Electrical Panels


• Indoor Outlets


• Indoor Appliances

• Keep Your House Heated- It’s important to save money on heating, but a moderate temperature is important. Pipes will freeze and burst when you have lower temperatures. Just keep the thermostat above 65 degrees. You can invest in a programmable thermostat to help you both save money and monitor the temperature.

• Inspect Your Generator, Or Get One Installed- Generators are a lifesaver when winter weather strikes. If you have one, have a professional electrician inspect it before winter. If you don’t have one, consider putting one in. Here are just a few benefits to having a generator:
  
  • Prevents Pipes Freezing
  
  
  • Saves Food
  
  
  • Provides a Safety and Warmth During Emergencies
  
  
  • Helps Back Up Data on Computers
  
  
  • Can Help Prevent Damage to Appliances
  
  

• Make Sure Heating Sources Are Clear- Heating areas like vents or radiators need to be clear of all clutter. Blankets, curtains, clothes, and other items should be placed away from all heating sources. These items can become too hot and catch fire when no one is looking.

• Have Detectors Installed- It is so important to have both smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors installed and ready for winter. With more indoor activities, holiday cooking, and toasty fires in the fireplace, the risk of both fires and carbon monoxide poisoning increases. Have a professional like Nipper Electric install the right detectors in the appropriate space to keep you safe.

Trusted Electricians in Virginia Beach Keep You Safe

Nipper Electric remains the area’s trusted electrician. We offer multiple services as well as phone estimates and clear cut pricing. The safety of our neighbors and friends here in Virginia Beach is very important to us. If you have any concerns or would like to schedule a repair or electrical checkup, call us at 757-842-1710. We are here to get you ready for winter. You can even make an appointment online while you relax.

Fall is the Time to Get Ready for Winter

Power Outage

Electricians Provide Solution to Low Power or Power Outages

A power outage can happen at any time for multiple reasons. It can also completely interrupt your day and possibly damage some of your treasured appliances and devices. Before you start googling phrases like, “why is there no power to my house?” professional electricians, Nipper Electric can help you prevent, prepare, and recover from loss of power to your house. Our experienced team of electricians can help keep your power running strong with services that include:

• Regular Maintenance Inspections


• Repair Worn Power Entrances like Meter Boxes, Panels, and Weatherheads


• Electrical Troubleshooting


• Circuit Testing


• Rewiring or Repairing Old Wiring


• Panel Upgrades

Our staff knows how serious a power outage can be and we have the tools to help you avoid or rebound from power outages.

What is a Power Outage?

When most people think of a power outage, they think of complete darkness. However, there are differing degrees of power outages. The three main types of power outages are:

• Permanent Fault– Large loss of power caused to a big area that is often caused by a fault somewhere on the power line. This will have everyone in your area asking, “Why is there no electricity to my house?”

• Brown Outs– A brown out occurs when there is a sudden drop in the voltage, often dimming lights. This can often be due to intentional low power by electrical companies. Intentional brown outs are done to try to lower electrical usage.

• Blackouts– The most famous type of power outage, blackouts occur on a huge scale. They affect a large area and can last for a long time. Often blackouts are caused by tripping wires at a power plant or station.

• Internal Outages– Often the most common of power outages, internal outages are caused by issues inside the home and may have you wondering why you are having a loss of power to your house, while your neighbors don’t.

Dominion website tracks all blackouts which you can also see on the map. They provide in details how many customers are out and how many current projects are in the area. Click Here to see the power outage map for Virginia. You can also report a power outage on power company website Dominion Power.

Each of these power outages can have different causes and solutions. As professional licensed electricians, Nipper Electric knows how to spot the difference between these outages and how to find solutions to your low power or power outage. 

What Causes a Power Outage?

Power outages are caused by many different things. Sometimes the causes are within your control, but often they are not. Causes of power outages include:

• Storms


• Power Company Issues


• Accidents


• Overheating


• Overloaded Panels


• Faulty Wiring

How to Prepare for Power Outage?

While you can’t always prevent a power outage, you can often prepare for a power outage. In some cases, you will need to contact your electrical company for professional help. Other times, professional electricians like Nipper Electric can help you solve electrical issues or install additions that will help your home stay safe in the case of a power outage. Some things to consider adding in the case of a power outage are:

• Back Up Solar Power


• Generators


• Sub Panels to Handle Extra Loads

Help prevent power outages, consider these precautions:

• Keep Trees Trimmed


• Don’t plant tall trees under electrical lines

Safety During Power Out

The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) is the leading non-profit organization dedicated promoting electrical safety at home and in the workplace. Over the years, ESFI has created unique awareness and designed educational resources to provide the diverse needs of a variety of at-risk groups. They have created amazing disaster safety page with beautiful inforaphic to help people stay safe during power outage and other disasters.

How to minimize loss of power in your home?

• Maintain and Repair Meter Boxes


• Maintain and Repair Wiring


• Maintain and Repair Weatherheads


• Keep Outside Outlets Protected From Water with GFCI Installations


• Update Your Panel to Meet Your Electrical Load


• Perform Yearly Electrical Home Inspection

When you think about it, electricity affects every aspect of your life; yet often, you take it for granted… until it isn’t working properly, especially when it’s not working in your home. These are just few of examples in our home that we expect electricity to always work for us:

• When you flip a switch, what happens? A light comes on!


• When you open your fridge, what do you find? Cold food!


• And when you turn down your thermostat, what happens? You air conditioner kicks on!

No Power Only in My House

When you notice that you are the only one in the neighborhood that is experiencing power failure it will typically mean that it is isolated issue to your home only. Next step would be to call local electrician and have them find and determine a root of the electricity outage to avoid any serious damage to yourself or your home.

Your dependence on electricity is a huge reason why you should pay attention to any irregularities that you may have noticed in the past or are experiencing now and have ignored. They can be early signs of a potentially bigger problem:

• Light bulbs burning out frequently – It could be more than just overuse; you may have a loose connection in the socket or circuit. And recessed lights that go out may do so because they’re too hot because of nearby insulation. If operating properly, recessed lights are designed to shut themselves off in those cases, so as not to create a fire hazard.


• Flickering and dimming lights – This could be a sign of a poor connection in your circuit and can lead to eventual arching!


• Dead outlets – A poor connection could be the culprit again, or it tripped to prevent an excessive heat build-up that could result in the outlet melting.


• Warm switches and fixtures – This is definitely a safety concern and should be addressed immediately.


• Tripping breakers – Usually a sign that a circuit is drawing too much electricity and you’re experiencing an overload. If this happens constantly, it is definitely a potential fire risk. You should add a circuit or even consider upgrading your electrical service.

These are few of the many electrical issues that can be seen in a home. And it should also be pointed out that these may not be the exact reasons why these problems are occurring; there may be a host of others that we haven’t discussed. Often, it’s not a large issue you’re dealing with, but it’s really not worth gambling with your health and safety. You don’t want to be one of the thousands of people who experience a home-fire due to an ignored electrical problem.

Electrical Home Inspection

It’s important to give your home a complete safety inspection at least once a year. Look in your panel for burning or corrosion, tighten the breakers, and test its load and voltage with a voltage meter. Also, evaluate your outlets with a ground fault circuit interrupter device; look over any exposed wiring in your attic, basement, and crawl space; and examine your main disconnect box to see if it’s working properly.

All of these things will help prevent internal power outages and can even protect from outside power outages. If you have a question about any of these things, or you’re not certain how to do these things, don’t have the right tools, or would just like a second opinion contact Nipper Electric today at 757-842-1710 or make an appointment online. We are here to keep your home running and your family safe.

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 ReplacementRecessed LightingReceptacle installationSolarTrack LightingVehicle charging stations

COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL SERVICES

Service repairsLighting ballastsPower polesRelampingDedicated circuitsTehnical troubleshootingLighting installation

Power Outage