Press Releases Archive - Atlas Home Service

Add Coil Maintenance to the Spring Cleaning List

Save Money and Stay Cool with Coil Cleaning

Summer is coming, and that means warm temperatures and high humidity. With stifling summers, the one reprieve is the cool, dry air in every home provided by the air conditioner. Unfortunately, to amend the weather conditions to make the indoors tolerable, bills can skyrocket, and all of that extra work on the part of the air conditioner can take a toll on the equipment causing mechanical problems.

Luckily it’s not too late to add AC maintenance to the spring cleaning checklist. Most spring cleaning tasks aim to prepare the home for summer, and AC maintenance is no different. During maintenance, technicians will perform a task called “coil cleaning.” This indispensable service can help lower bills and keep the home more comfortable in the coming summer. Here is a quick guide to help owners understand the benefits of AC coil cleaning.

What are Evaporator Coils?

The evaporator coils in an AC do the work of providing the cooling power to the unit. Inside the evaporator coil, refrigerant is allowed to turn into a gas, rapidly removing heat from the air being pushed across the coil. Since this process is heavily dependent on heat transfer, the slightest buildup on the coil can have insulative effects that rob the unit of efficiency.

During normal operation, the evaporator coil can accumulate dust and dander. Despite being protected by the air filter, small particles still slip through and cling to the evaporator coil. During evaporator coil cleaning, technicians carefully use chemicals to remove grime from the evaporator coil. This process makes the air conditioner far more efficient by allowing easy heat transfer.

How do Condenser Coils get Dirty?

Once the refrigerant in the evaporator coil has expanded into a gas, it has to be compressed and condensed into a liquid again. This process generates heat in addition to the heat that the refrigerant absorbs in the evaporator coil. To dispel this heat, the condenser coil gets to work.

The condenser coil in an air conditioner sits outside the home, subject to the whims of nature. Without the protection of filters, the condenser coils can capture a huge amount of dust and dirt from the surrounding environment. The dust and dirt inhibit heat transfer and reduce the air volume that can be moved across the coil to cool the refrigerant. This results in a loss of efficiency that can be easily restored with condenser coil cleaning.

Cleaning and Maintenance Steps

Cleaning both coils is simple and uses a similar process for each. In most cases, technicians will use powerful cleaners to remove grime from coils. These chemicals are foaming detergents that lift and wash away the dust and dirt that prevents effective heat transfer. The detergents are left on the evaporator coils, and the air conditioner is run. During normal operation, the humidity in the home will wash the coils clean. On the outdoor coil, water hoses are generally used to wash away detergents and grime. This allows homeowners to see a noticeable improvement in the performance of their air conditioners.

About Atlas Home Service

Atlas Home Service is a woman-owned business that adds a personal touch to HVAC and electrical contracting. Their knowledgeable and friendly staff offers coil cleaning and memberships to take the hassle out of spring cleaning for the air conditioner. Call today for phenomenal AC service in Alexandria, LA.

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Three Signs that Electrical Panel Repairs Are Needed

Recognizing Trouble with the Breaker Panel

Owning a home can be a chore. Keeping the home running smoothly involves a lot of chores over the years. To keep everything running as it should takes the help of a team of dedicated experts applying their skills. An electrician is one of the experts that every homeowner should have on their team.

One of the things electricians can help with around the home is by advising about the age and condition of the electrical system inside the home. Over the years, parts of the electrical system will wear out or building codes will change, requiring updates from these qualified experts. One common thing that electricians can address in particular is the breaker panel.

Over time, breaker panels succumb to problems that can reduce the electrical system’s reliability in the home or create a hazard. Here are a few things to look out for regarding electrical panels. If any of these occurrences are common, calling for help from an electrician is the prudent choice.

Flickering Lights

The first and usually most recognizable sign that the breaker box needs some attention is flickering lights. Lights that flicker in the house caused by a breaker panel deficiency are due to a loss of power. This can occur because surfaces in the breaker box are corroded, impeding electrical flow, or poor connections cause lights to dim when large appliances turn on and steal current.

Check the lightbulbs before calling a professional to rule out problems that masquerade as a bad electrical panel. In many cases, bad light bulbs display the same characteristics as problems in the breaker box. However, if the problem is noticeable in different rooms or across the home, the breaker panel is the likely problem.

Smells Like Something is Burning

The biggest threat that an outdated or aging electrical panel can pose is the threat of fires. Despite industry advancements and stringent building codes, electrical fires are still a common source of property damage, with many of them attributable to bad breaker panels. Any time there is a burning smell near the breaker panel or any electrical component, homeowners should call an electrician. Burning smells are always signs of a serious problem, and extreme caution should be taken when they are near the breaker box.

Old Age

Electrical panel repair is probably one of the most neglected services electricians render, so problems tend to get ignored. Repairing or replacing electrical panels is a fairly invasive project and only needs to be done every 25 to 50 years. Between these two factors, most homeowners will forgo this valuable service, but they do so to their detriment. Aging electrical panels are more likely to cause problems and start fires. If the panel in a home is nearing 30 years old, it is usually best to plan and get the electrical panel inspected and replaced before serious problems occur.

About Atlas Home Service

Atlas Home Service is a local provider of every home service a home could need. Their skilled electricians are knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to solve any problem a home may have. Call today for superior electrical service in Alexandria, LA.

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Women Have Made the HVAC Industry What It Is Today

Get To Know the Women Who Transformed the World of Heating & Cooling

March is Women’s History Month – a time to commemorate and reflect on the women who have positively changed society throughout history. The most famous examples are art, science, sports, government, and the equal rights movement. But the world of HVAC-R (heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration) also has female pioneers. So keep reading to learn about the women whose innovations in heating and cooling have had a profound and lasting impact on everyday life – and the HVAC industry itself!

Women In Today’s HVAC-R Industry

Today, women make up around 9% of the HVAC-R industry. While it may not seem like very much, that number is dramatically higher than it was just a couple of decades ago – and continues to rise. Discrimination and stereotypes have kept women out of the HVAC labor force for a long time. However, that’s slowly changing as companies actively reach out to young women to fill positions as technicians, installers, salespeople, engineers, and managers.

Some organizations, such as the renowned Women In HVACR, offer apprenticeship programs, scholarships, education, and other resources to help incentivize young women to begin careers in heating and cooling. With all of the growing support and opportunities, it’s no surprise that there are more and more women-owned HVAC companies each year!

Alice H. Parker and the Gas Furnace

Before the HVAC industry was even off the ground, there was Alice H. Parker. Born in 1895, Parker graduated with honors from Howard University Academy, a high school attached to the historically all-black university. In 1919, inspired by her fireplace’s inability to keep her home warm through the cold New Jersey winters, Parker devised a furnace that would revolutionize home heating systems forever.

Parker’s design was a central heating system that used natural gas rather than wood or coal, the prevailing fuel type at the time. Another key thing that set her gas furnace apart from other early designs was that it utilized multiple burners connected to separate ducts, each of which could be controlled independently. This paved the way for the “zone heating” systems used today.

While her patent never saw wide-scale production, it laid the foundation for modern gas furnaces. Making her achievement even more impressive is that Parker, a Black woman, filed her patent and became an influential figure long before the Civil Rights and Women’s Liberation movements.

Margaret Ingels and Her Impact On Air Conditioning

Around the time of Parker’s patent, another young woman was coming into her own as an HVAC pioneer. Margaret Ingels was born in Kentucky in 1892 and developed an interest in science and engineering early on. In 1916, she graduated from the University of Kentucky with a Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, making her the first woman to earn an engineering degree at that university and the second to do so in America.

A few years later, Ingels got her Mechanical Engineering professional degree (another historic first for a woman) and began her career in HVAC. She worked in the American Society of Heating and Ventilation Engineers research lab for years, developing devices and methods for measuring indoor air quality in schools and other public buildings. She then worked for the Carrier-Lyle Corporation (now known as Carrier, one of the world’s largest HVAC manufacturers), where she helped pioneer the sling psychrometer – a device used to measure humidity levels – among other valuable contributions to air conditioning and ventilation systems.

Long after she died in 1971, Margaret Ingels continues to be a role model and inspiration for young women interested in pursuing careers in engineering and HVAC-R!

About Atlas Home Service

Founded in 2011, Atlas Home Service has quickly developed a reputation as one of Alexandria, LA’s most reliable and highly-rated HVAC companies. As a family-owned and woman-operated business, they proudly offer up-front pricing, membership perks, and emergency service when needed. Their friendly and punctual technicians are licensed, insured, background-checked, and drug-tested, so homeowners can rest easy when they call Atlas for HVAC repair and maintenance in Alexandria, Louisiana!

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Sparking Genius: Innovations by Black Visionaries in Home Electricity

Revolutionary Innovators of Modern Home Living

The modern home has undergone incredible transformations thanks to visionary inventors who have dedicated their time and expertise to making our lives easier and more secure. From Lewis Latimer and his carbon light bulb filament to James E. West and Gerhard Sessler’s electret condenser microphone, these inventors have left an indelible mark on the world.

Their contributions have improved our daily lives and helped shape the future of technology. The home security system, for example, was revolutionized by Marie Van Brittan Brown, who created a rudimentary security system that paved the way for modern, sophisticated home security systems.

Lewis Latimer and the Carbon Light Bulb Filament

Lewis Latimer’s invention of the carbon light bulb filament was a game changer for the modern world. This technological advancement revolutionized lighting, bringing it from a luxury enjoyed by a few to a necessity for all.

Light bulbs became brighter, longer lasting, and more efficient with the carbon filament. Latimer’s contribution to the lighting field paved the way for the widespread adoption of electric lighting in homes, businesses, and public spaces, transforming how people live, work, and play.

James E. West and the Electret Condenser Microphone

James E. West revolutionized modern technology with his invention of the Electret Condenser Microphone. This groundbreaking technology is now widely used in various devices, including smart home systems, cameras, and more.

West shares credit for this invention with Gerhard Sessler, and they have greatly impacted the world of audio technology. With its superior sound quality and reliability, the Electret Condenser Microphone has become essential in many of today’s cutting-edge devices.

Marie Van Brittan Brown and the Home Security System

Marie Van Brittan Brown’s home security system revolutionized home safety. That invention involved peepholes, the camera, and a two-way microphone so homeowners could see and talk to their visitors before opening the front door.

Brown patented her design in 1969, paving the way for more advanced home security systems. Without it, homeowners couldn’t feel as safe in their own homes. But that’s not all she did; Brown was also a nurse and had plenty of experience with electrical engineering and criminal justice. If there’s ever been anyone homeowners underrate concerning their home systems, it’s Marie Van Brittan Brown!

About Atlas Home Service

Atlas Home Service in Alexandria, LA offers top-notch HVAC, electrical, and windows services that guarantee customer satisfaction. With a focus on quality, the company is dedicated to making homes more comfortable and energy-efficient. Their experienced technicians use the latest technology to provide reliable and efficient solutions for home service needs.

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2023 Is The Year To Break Bad Habits Regarding Heating and Cooling

Homeowners Should Avoid These 3 Bad HVAC Practices

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning, or HVAC, has revolutionized home comfort. Proper central heating and air conditioning keep temperatures consistent throughout the home and help maintain good indoor air quality. Homeowners sometimes take their systems for granted and neglect certain AC and heating maintenance aspects. This article will cover a few bad habits of HVAC neglect that homeowners should work to break in the new year.

Bad Habit #1: Forgetting to Replace Air Filters

Air filters on central heating and cooling systems serve two main functions.

Air filters keep dust and other particles out of the moving parts of the HVAC unit
They catch dust, allergens, and other air pollutants to protect the home’s residents and maintain indoor air quality

These two purposes mean that air filters do get dirty fairly quickly. A dirty air filter will cause the HVAC unit’s motor to work harder to pull air through. This wastes energy and is detrimental to the efficiency and function of the unit. Filters should be changed at least once every three months and may need to be changed as frequently as once a month. This promotes:

System efficiency
Excellent IAQ (Indoor Air Quality)
Consistent temperatures
Cleaner air ducts

Bad Habit #2: Blocking or Closing Air Vents

When installing an HVAC system, technicians try to place air vents as conveniently as possible for homeowners, but furniture placement and people’s temperature preferences often hinder airflow. Closing air vents or blocking them, whether intentional or unintentional, can cause problems for the system. A closed or blocked vent causes an air pressure imbalance in the air ducts, which can result in damage to the ducts. Tears or leaks can be difficult to repair, affecting the efficiency of the whole system and may cause inconsistent temperatures.

Bad Habit #3: Neglecting HVAC Maintenance

As long as an HVAC system seems to be working, it is easy for homeowners to put off calling in a technician for professional maintenance. The problem with this thought pattern is that when people notice their HVAC system is not working properly, the fix may be much more expensive. Maintenance performed by a professional will be much less expensive and much quicker than emergency service on a malfunctioning heating and cooling system. The benefits of regular professional maintenance are as follows:

Efficiency: A well-maintained system is more efficient and functions at its best
Longer Unit Life: The HVAC unit will last longer if it is regularly given a tuneup
Saves Money: An efficient system will use less energy and save on energy costs
Prevents Emergencies: Needed repairs can be caught early and dealt with before the HVAC stops functioning
Peace of Mind: Homeowners can rest assured that their system is working correctly

About Atlas Home Service

The family-owned Atlas Home Service is a licensed and insured electrical and HVAC company serving Alexandria, LA, and the surrounding areas. Call them today for exceptional care and flat-rate pricing on HVAC service.

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Easy Ways to Save Money on Holiday Decorations

Three Ways to Save Money on Christmas Decorations

Money practically flies out of homeowners’ wallets when the holidays roll around. When they’re not spending money on Black Friday deals, they’re spending money on energy bills––and during the winter, they can easily get into the triple digits. So, does that mean the front of the house has to be bare this holiday season? Of course not.

Here, homeowners can learn about decorating their residences for the holidays. These easy money-saving tips ensure homeowners save money without sacrificing their festive spirits.

Get LED Lights

The U.S. Department of Energy says that if someone is serious about saving money this holiday season, they should throw out their old stands of Christmas lights and switch to LED lights. EnergyStar-branded LED lights use 75 percent less energy than their competitors and last up to 25 times longer.

Some other benefits of LED Christmas lights include:

The bulbs don’t get hot, so they don’t burn users upon touch
LED lights offer more colors than incandescent bulbs
LEDs are designed to emit light in a certain direction, making them more powerful than most lights on today’s market

LED lights are also pretty cheap. One can score a 75-foot strand of LED holiday lights online for under $20. That’s a pretty good investment, considering that LED lights can last up to 20 years.

Get Battery-Operated Christmas Lights

Battery-operated holiday decorations take money-saving to the next level. Here, a homeowner doesn’t have to worry about tangled extension cords, electrical fires, and other complications. Instead, they can buy batteries at their local hardware store and watch the magic happen. Here are some of the many benefits of battery-operated decorations:

A homeowner doesn’t have to worry about their electrical bills spiking during the holiday season––at least, not because of holiday decorations.
Homeowners have many options when it comes to getting holiday decorations that run on batteries. They can opt for LED lights, animatronics, projectors, and other outdoor Christmas decorations.
Battery-operated decorations give homeowners more versatility when decorating. They don’t have to base their designs around where an outlet is. They don’t have to open windows to snake extension cords through, either.

Rely on Old School Traditions and Use Candles

Many historians believe that holiday decorations became popular when Germans immigrated to the United States in the 1800s. They brought many traditions overseas, including the good ol’ Christmas trees. Because they didn’t have electricity (and, by extension, outdoor Christmas lights), they relied on candle-lit displays to show their warm tidings.

While candles can bring a special touch to one’s holiday spectacle, here are some important things to keep in mind, per the National Candle Association:

Homeowners should never leave candles unattended, even if they’re just going to the gas station down the block
Homeowners should never burn a candle near anything flammable––like the Christmas tree
Don’t burn the candle all the way down to the wick; doing so is a fire hazard
Don’t put candles too close to the Christmas tree; instead, one should rely on LED Christmas tree lights

There are more than 8,000 house fires each year. One can avoid being a statistic by heeding the advice listed above.

About Atlas Home Service

Altas Home Service wants everyone to have a happy and healthy holiday season. That’s why it offers many of the money-saving tips listed above. It also offers same-day service, flexible scheduling options, and service with a smile. Homeowners in Alexandria, LA, don’t have to rely on DIY measures to get the job done. Instead, they can call these professionals today for holiday electrical service.

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Put HVAC Technicians on This Year’s Gratitude List

Heating and Cooling Services To Be Thankful For

HVAC technicians fix both air conditioning and heating systems to keep temperatures safe. Extreme heat, especially for the elderly, can cause dehydration and physical weakness if the home isn’t reasonably cool. Likewise, chilly winters are dangerous and can cause respiratory issues and even hypothermia. HVAC professionals are trained to handle complex problems from multiple components in both ventilation systems.

A Cozy Home for the Holidays

A warm indoor climate while it’s chilly or snowing is one way to create a cozy atmosphere for the holidays. Although many homeowners depend on their heating system, they come to expect its ability to function year after year. Preventing HVAC issues during the cold months should be completed a few months in advance.

A broken heater can still produce warm air. This is often misleading for people that think HVAC systems are a zero-sum game. If the warm air is not sufficient enough to heat the whole house, however, this will cause electric bills to spike. It also means the unit must work twice as hard to provide power.

Homeowners are advised to check their heater before December. Trained HVAC contractors will inspect the thermostat, air vents, inducer motor, blower, and furnace before running necessary tests. This can help prevent expensive repairs in the future.

A Cool Summer Breeze

Both temperature and humidity matter during the summer. The indoor climate can seem damp without central air conditioning, even with natural wind or fans.

Annual HVAC inspections can improve air quality throughout the entire house. Pollen, dust, and pet dander will likely accumulate if the air ducts are not working and the filters still need to be changed. Without proper ventilation, the air conditioner essentially circulates dirty air through the vents.

Heating and cooling companies help with a variety of problems. Refrigerant leaks, circuit malfunction, lack of cool air, and odd cooling cycles are some of the most common A/C complaints. If an air conditioner is always running, this also causes bills to rise. Although summer preparation costs money up-front, it ultimately saves cash and time by avoiding costly A/C and heater repair services. HVAC maintenance is important for sustaining the unit and preventing immediate problems.

Keeping Air Quality Safe

Indoor Air Quality, or IAQ, refers to the air inside a home or office. Even commercial buildings that do not house animals can still produce dirty air without air conditioner repair services. Working HVAC units are advised for both work and home environments.

Poor air quality leads to physical discomfort and, in some cases, illness. Viruses are one of the most obvious winter air quality problems. Colds and other air-borne illnesses spread through contaminants floating in the air. A working air conditioning system will filter out indoor air pollution.

Pollen allergies are more likely to occur in the spring and summer. When circulated, these particles can irritate the eyes, difficulty breathing, and rashes. By hiring an HVAC professional during the early spring and fall, tenants can avoid a major headache.

About Atlas Home Service

Atlas Home Service is a woman-operated business that provides 5-star HVAC service. Call Atlas Home Service today for HVAC service in Alexandria, LA.

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Halloween Decorations Can Cause Serious Electrical Issues

Common Halloween Decorations Create Electrical Overloads

Halloween decorations are not as taxing on the electrical systems as some other holidays, such as Christmas, but they come close behind. These types of decorations are so dangerous because they are designed to be outside, all hooked into one or two outdoor outlets that are not designed to hold that much at one time.

Overloading outlets creates a volatile situation with electrical fires that can get out of hand very quickly. Overloading is not the only way that this can occur, either. The Halloween decorations are often hooked to the power through damaged cords without any surge protectors installed.

Inspect That Classic Halloween Decor

Before putting any of the Halloween yard decorations out, inspect the wires and connectors for any damage. Look for frayed wires, broken plugs, exposed wires, or any other damage that may indicate a problem.

The most common Halloween decorations that can be seen throughout the nation are Halloween inflatables. The cool lighted decorations use electric-powered motors to inflate and stay inflated as long as they are hooked up to the electrical outlets.

These can draw a substantial amount of power, and since they are outdoors in the rain and snow, they create a problem waiting to happen. Thankfully, there are a few ways to prevent issues and still have inflatables in the front yard.

Check the Connections

Using numerous extension cords is one of the biggest causes of blown fuses. Any faulty wires within the circuit will burn out before kicking the breakers off, which will cause a house fire that could destroy everything. When using extension cords outside, ensure they are designed to be outdoors, and never use more than one in line at a time.

Anywhere that there is a connection between electrical cords must be covered to prevent fluid from entering into either plug. Use a container to cover them, waterproof tape or anything else that is lying around that can cover the ends.

One of the best ways to prevent electrical issues is to think about safety first. If something does not look safe, it probably isn’t. Never use any frayed or damaged wiring, even if it is the best inflatable in town. The family’s safety should always come before the Halloween scene in the yard.

Protect The Circuit Breaker

Each circuit in the house is rated for a specific amount of outgoing electricity. Never plug in more than the circuit can hold. In the least, this will prevent the circuits from tripping off. However, if those fun decorations have to go out, a surge protector is a must.

Use surge protectors in all the areas where outdoor Halloween decorations are plugged in. The ones designed for outdoor lights with timers and surge protection built in are one of the best investments a homeowner can make. They connect all the inflatables into one outdoor-rated surge protector that can be set to turn on and off according to the schedule wanted.

Making a plan before creating the outdoor Halloween scene is a good idea because it can map out where everything will be plugged in, giving a chance to gather all the necessary items to make the design safe.

About Atlas Home Service

The professionals at Atlas Home Service in Alexandria, Louisiana lead the charge in the area for creating a company that puts the needs of the customer first. Their main objectives are to offer fast, on-time service for all electrical, heating, and air conditioning problems. Contact them today for reliable electrical service in time for the Halloween season.

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Get a Headstart on AC Maintenance This Autumn

Why Homeowners Should Schedule HVAC Maintenance Visits Before Fall and Winter

The HVAC system may have run perfectly all summer long. Yet, once autumn and winter hit, matters could change. The HVAC system could have a hard time heating the entire home. The home’s indoor air quality could take a turn for the worse––leaving homeowners sneezing and coughing around the clock.

This is why homeowners need to schedule end-of-year maintenance visits before it’s too late. The longer one waits, the busier local businesses become with appointments and other obligations. One doesn’t want to wait weeks for an HVAC company to diagnose a problem. They want to ensure a functioning HVAC system before winter comes.

The Many Benefits of Maintaining the Heater

EnergyStar lists the many benefits of arranging yearly maintenance visits. Some of these benefits include:

A longer lifespan. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that HVAC systems generally last for 15 years. With maintenance, one can make their system last even longer. They can also reduce the likelihood of problems that come with inevitable wear and tear.
Catching small problems. Some small problems may not seem like a big deal right now. However, these problems can worsen when the HVAC system “kicks into high gear” during the latter half of the year. A professional can keep these problems from arising and keep everything in working order.
Lower energy bills. When the HVAC system works harder than it has to, this can lead to higher-than-normal energy bills. This can quickly strain one’s wallet––the last thing anyone wants during the holiday season.

What Does a Heating Maintenance Professional Do?

When one schedules a heating maintenance visit, a professional will:

Lubricate the system. An HVAC system has a lot of moving parts. When not properly lubricated, parts can wear down and need constant replacement. The system may also struggle to maintain the ideal in-home temperature.

Change the air filter. EnergyStar notes that homeowners should change their HVAC system’s air filter once every three months. The system’s air filters maintain the home’s temperature. A maintenance professional can check the system’s air filter and determine whether it needs replacing.
Check the system’s connections. Any loose connection in a gas, electrical, or water-powered system can have disastrous results. It can lead to fires, health problems, and other complications––all of which can be avoidable if caught in time.

As noted, HVAC systems generally last 15 years. If one’s system is older, a professional may suggest getting a new unit.

It’s Never Too Early to Consider an HVAC Maintenance Visit

Right now, the HVAC system may work perfectly. However, when temperatures dip below 50 degrees, matters may change. With this in mind, it’s never too early to consider scheduling an annual HVAC maintenance visit. By ensuring the HVAC system is working properly, one can avoid discomfort when the first cold front of the year blows in. They can also avoid burst pipes, high energy bills, and frustration.

About Altas Home Service

Atlas Home Service knows that HVAC maintenance is a year-long endeavor. That’s why, for pennies a day, homeowners can sign up for their membership plan. This gives members access to exclusive offers not afforded to first-time customers. For more information on HVAC services in Alexandria, LA, one can call today to learn more .

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Guide to Electrical System Basics

Electrical System Basic Knowledge

Home electrical systems consist of a complicated network of wires, circuits, and appliances. Professional electricians undergo extensive training in school and in the field as apprentices to learn how to safely repair, install, and maintain electrical systems. Homeowners should know the basics of electrical systems to take better care of their systems and prevent electrical emergencies.

Practicing electrical safety is extremely important for preventing electrical fires and accidental electrocutions. Basic electrical system knowledge helps homeowners identify potential warning signs of a system malfunction and take steps to resolve the issue. Knowing how electrical systems work can also save homeowners money on energy bills by optimizing the performance of their home’s electrical system.

Components of Electrical Systems

Electricity is generated in power plants and distributed to the community through power lines. Energy enters the home’s electrical system via a connection monitored by an electric meter. The electric meter measures how much energy the house uses to bill for utilities. Electricians also use the meter to troubleshoot problems with the electrical system.

A disconnect switch is usually located either on the electric meter or in the breaker box that allows electricians to shut off the home’s power completely. This is important for safely working on the electrical system without the risk of electrocution. Homeowners may want to use the disconnect switch to shut off their electricity until professional help arrives if they suspect that there is the risk of an electrical fire due to a system malfunction.

The breaker box is a series of switches that control the home’s circuits. Each switch in the breaker box correlates with an area of the house or a hardwired appliance. When the circuits become overloaded, the breaker box will flip the switches to cut off power and prevent electrical hazards from occurring. This is why having a working breaker box is essential for preventing electrical fires.

Electrical circuits are passageways engineered to transfer electricity from one place to another. For example, a home’s electrical circuits carry electricity from the powerlines to the home’s appliances, lights, and outlets. Electrical outlets are what homeowners use to plug in their electric-powered devices.

Warning Signs of Electrical Problems

The following are signs of issues with the electrical system:

Sparking outlets
Sparking breaker box
Flickering lights
Burning smell
High energy bills

Homeowners should be on the lookout for signs of an electrical system malfunction. An electrical fire could affect the homeowner and the community at large if the fire spreads. The entire neighborhood, as well as local ecosystems, could be impacted by an electrical fire.

In addition to the risk of electrocution and fire, a malfunctioning electrical system can also cause a spike in utility bills. A sudden increase in the light bill could mean that the electrical system is not performing efficiently due to disrepair. Flickering lights could be caused by a lightbulb, but if the issue is consistent throughout the home’s lighting, it could mean the breaker box is malfunctioning.

Electrical Safety Is a Number One Priority

The most important thing that homeowners need to know about their electrical system is that leaving it in a state of disrepair or doing amateur electrical work is extremely dangerous. Electrocution and fires can be life-threatening. There is also the financial risk of property damage to consider. Rewiring the entire electrical system because amateurs have installed it is expensive and time-consuming.

Professional electricians are trained to service electrical systems safely and are protected by insurance in case of an accident. Homeowners should always ensure that they hire a professional electrician who is both fully licensed and insured to repair and install their home’s electrical system.

In addition to being aware of the signs of a malfunction and hiring an experienced electrician, homeowners should also be careful not to overload their circuits. When installing new appliances and lightbulbs, homeowners should check the recommended voltage/wattage. Another safety measure homeowners can take is installing a whole home surge protector to protect the home from power surges.

About Atlas Home Service

Atlas Home Service is a family owned business with over a decade of experience serving its neighbors in Alexandria, LA, and the surrounding areas. They provide flat-rate pricing and free in-home quotes and are also fully licensed and insured. Call them today for electrical services in Alexandria, LA.