Facebook Twitter

Call Now! (770) 484-6402

Logo

Category: Blog

Atlanta Electrician Blog McCall Enterprises, Inc.

Posted on

Say Goodbye to Unsightly Cords: Install a Receptacle for Your Wall-Mounted TV

Mounting a television on the wall can dramatically enhance a room’s look, but cords dangling from your TV can disrupt that polished aesthetic. One solution? Installing an in-wall power outlet behind your wall-mounted television, hiding those cords and achieving a seamless, organized look. But it’s not a DIY job – in fact, it’s best handled by a licensed electrician, especially if you’re in the Atlanta area. Here’s why and how to do it right.

The Problem with Dangling TV Cords

Nothing takes away from the clean, modern look of a wall-mounted TV quite like the mess of cords hanging below it. Not only does it look unkempt, but exposed cables can also pose hazards:

  1. Safety Risks: Loose cables are tripping hazards, particularly in homes with children or pets. Tugging or pulling on exposed wires can also damage connections.
  2. Increased Clutter: Cords hanging below your TV create visual clutter, making your room look less organized and potentially distracting from your viewing experience.
  3. Potential Cable Damage: Exposed wires are more likely to be pulled or snagged, leading to wear and tear. This could cause connectivity issues or force you to replace cables sooner than necessary.

By installing a recessed power outlet directly behind the TV, you can eliminate the need for visible cords, creating a cleaner and safer setup.

Why You Should Hire a Licensed Electrician

While some people may consider attempting to install a power outlet on their own, hiring a licensed electrician is the safest and most efficient choice for several reasons:

  1. Safety and Code Compliance: Electrical work involves specific building codes to prevent hazards. A licensed electrician ensures that your setup meets all safety standards, reducing the risk of electrical fires or injuries.
  2. Professional Expertise: Electricians have the training and experience to handle wiring properly, ensuring that power is correctly distributed and grounded. This expertise is especially critical when dealing with high-powered electronics like televisions.
  3. A Clean, Reliable Installation: A professional installation leaves no room for unsightly gaps or exposed wires. Electricians also have access to high-quality materials, like in-wall cable management kits, that ensure durability and longevity.

Finding a Trusted Electrician in Atlanta

If you’re in Atlanta and considering an installation, McCall Enterprises, Inc. offers expert services tailored to wall-mounted TV setups. With years of experience, they know the unique requirements of power outlets for wall-mounted TVs and can advise you on the best approach for your home.

The Process: What to Expect During Installation

  1. Site Assessment: The electrician will first evaluate the placement of your TV and assess the best location for the outlet to ensure safe and efficient power delivery.
  2. Planning the Installation: If there’s already an existing outlet nearby, they may be able to extend power from there, reducing the need for new wiring. Otherwise, new wiring will be run through the walls to position the outlet directly behind your TV.
  3. Cutting and Installing: After marking the location, the electrician will carefully cut a small hole in the drywall for the recessed outlet. The outlet is installed, connected to the power source, and secured, with wires run inside the wall.
  4. Testing and Finalizing: Once installed, the electrician will test the outlet to ensure it’s working correctly and safely. After a quick cleanup, you’ll be left with a sleek, wire-free setup.

Benefits of an In-Wall TV Receptacle

Once installed, an in-wall power outlet offers several benefits:

  • Aesthetic Appeal: A cord-free setup creates a more streamlined look, making your room appear larger and less cluttered.
  • Increased Safety: Hidden cords are safer for children and pets, reducing the risk of trips, falls, or accidental damage.
  • Higher Resale Value: Homebuyers appreciate thoughtful installations, and a clean TV setup adds a touch of modern convenience to your home.

Why Choose McCall Enterprises, Inc.?

For residents in Atlanta, McCall Enterprises, Inc. stands out as a top choice for electrical installations, including in-wall outlets for TVs. They bring:

  • Licensed Expertise: As licensed electricians, they understand the complexities of electrical work and ensure every installation meets local codes.
  • Attention to Detail: McCall Enterprises pays attention to every detail, from ensuring proper alignment to leaving your space clean.
  • Commitment to Safety: Their team prioritizes safety, delivering installations that are both reliable and compliant with current regulations.

Ready to Go Cord-Free? Contact McCall Enterprises Today!

If you’re in Atlanta and ready to say goodbye to dangling TV cords, consider installing an in-wall outlet for a sleek, polished setup. Trust McCall Enterprises, Inc. to handle the installation professionally, ensuring safety, functionality, and a modern look for your home. Contact them today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a cleaner, safer TV setup.

Posted on

Protecting Your Home with AFCI and Dual Function Breakers: What Atlanta Homeowners Need to Know

Three Eaton 20-amp AFCI breakers with packaging

In recent years, advancements in electrical safety have prompted updates to the National Electrical Code (NEC) to mandate the use of Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCI) and dual-function breakers in residential homes. These advanced breakers offer increased protection against electrical fires and shocks, ensuring a safer environment for homeowners and their families. But with some circuit breakers now under recall, it’s essential to understand how to keep your electrical system safe and up-to-date. This article covers why AFCI and dual-function breakers are required, the potential hazards of recalled breakers, and how Atlanta residents can address these issues with the help of local contractors like McCall Enterprises, Inc.

Understanding the Importance of AFCI and Dual-Function Breakers

Electrical codes exist to minimize risks from electrical malfunctions and reduce the likelihood of accidents, including fires and electrical shocks. AFCI breakers are designed to detect and respond to arc faults, which can occur due to damaged wiring, loose connections, or faulty appliances. These arc faults can lead to electrical fires, so the NEC now mandates AFCI protection in areas like bedrooms, living rooms, and other common spaces.

What are Dual-Function Breakers?

Dual-function breakers offer a combination of two types of protection: AFCI and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection. GFCI technology is crucial for protecting against ground faults that can cause electrical shocks, especially in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens. By combining AFCI and GFCI technology, dual-function breakers provide comprehensive protection against both arc and ground faults, making them an ideal choice for residential electrical systems.

Circuit Breaker Recalls: Is Your Home Affected?

Despite the advances in electrical safety, some manufacturers have experienced issues with their breakers, leading to recalls due to potential defects. Faulty breakers may not trip as intended, increasing the risk of electrical fires and shock. If your home is equipped with recalled breakers, the manufacturer may offer replacement units at no charge, but it’s essential to confirm if your breakers are part of any recalls.

How to Check for Recalled Circuit Breakers

To find out if your breakers have been recalled, follow these steps:

  1. Identify the Manufacturer: Check the label or markings on your breaker to determine the brand and model.
  2. Review Recall Notices: Visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website or the manufacturer’s site to look up current recall information.
  3. Contact the Manufacturer: If your breaker model is listed in a recall, reach out to the manufacturer. Many offer free replacements for affected units.

Replacing Recalled Breakers: What to Expect

If you discover that your breakers have been recalled, the manufacturer may provide new breakers at no charge. However, installing these replacements requires the expertise of a licensed electrician. Replacing circuit breakers is not a DIY job, as improper installation can lead to further issues and potential hazards. Instead, contact a certified professional to handle the replacement safely.

Finding a Licensed Electrician in Atlanta

Atlanta homeowners concerned about recalled breakers can rely on McCall Enterprises, Inc., a trusted electrical contractor in the area. With a team of licensed electricians experienced in breaker replacements and code compliance, McCall Enterprises, Inc. can ensure your home meets the latest safety standards. Their services are ideal for homeowners looking to replace recalled breakers with AFCI or dual-function units for optimal protection.

Why Hire McCall Enterprises, Inc.?

When dealing with electrical systems, safety and expertise are paramount. McCall Enterprises, Inc. offers:

  • Licensed and Experienced Electricians: Ensuring compliance with the latest electrical codes and safe installation.
  • Customer-Focused Service: Dedicated to providing a positive and informed customer experience.
  • Knowledge of Electrical Safety Codes: Familiar with the latest NEC updates, including AFCI and dual-function requirements.

With McCall Enterprises, Inc., Atlanta homeowners can have peace of mind knowing their electrical systems are secure and compliant.

Posted on

October is Fire Prevention Month: Protect Your Family with Wired Smoke Detectors

October is Fire Prevention Month, making it an ideal time to evaluate your home’s fire safety measures. Smoke detectors play a crucial role in protecting lives by providing early warnings of fires, and for the best protection, experts recommend wired smoke detectors with battery backup over battery-only options. With the cooler months approaching in Atlanta and increased use of space heaters, now is the time to ensure your smoke detectors are installed correctly and functioning optimally. Learn why wired smoke detectors are the safest choice and how a licensed electrician like McCall Enterprises, Inc. can help you secure your home.

Why Wired Smoke Detectors with Battery Backup Are Essential

When it comes to smoke detectors, there are two main options: battery-only detectors and hardwired smoke detectors with battery backup. Hardwired smoke detectors are connected to your home’s electrical system (120 volts) and have a battery backup in case of power outages. Here’s why this dual-power approach is superior for fire safety:

  1. Increased Reliability: Hardwired smoke detectors provide continuous power from your home’s electrical system, reducing the risk of detector failure due to dead or removed batteries.
  2. Battery Backup for Safety During Power Outages: In the event of a power outage, the battery backup ensures your smoke detectors will still function, which is crucial during natural disasters or electrical issues.
  3. Interconnected Alert System: Hardwired detectors can be interconnected, so if one detector is triggered, all alarms sound, providing a faster warning throughout the house.
  4. Longer Lifespan: While battery-only detectors may need battery replacements every six months to a year, hardwired models generally require less frequent maintenance and can last up to 10 years.

The Importance of Smoke Detectors as Cooler Weather Arrives

As temperatures drop, more people in Atlanta turn to space heaters to keep warm. While space heaters can be convenient, they also pose a significant fire risk if left unattended or improperly used. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), space heaters are one of the leading causes of home fires, especially during fall and winter. Here are some tips for safe space heater use:

  1. Never Leave Heaters Unattended: Always turn off space heaters when you leave the room or go to sleep.
  2. Keep Heaters Away from Flammable Items: Ensure that heaters are positioned away from curtains, bedding, and furniture that could catch fire.
  3. Use Only Certified Heaters: Choose heaters with an automatic shut-off feature and a certification from a recognized testing lab for added safety.

With a high-quality smoke detector system in place, you’ll have extra peace of mind, knowing your family has an early warning system in case of an accidental fire.

Proper Placement of Smoke Detectors

For smoke detectors to work effectively, they need to be installed in the right locations throughout your home. Here are NFPA-recommended guidelines for smoke detector placement:

  • Inside Each Bedroom: Place a smoke detector in every bedroom to alert occupants as quickly as possible.
  • Outside Each Sleeping Area: Install alarms in hallways leading to bedrooms.
  • On Every Level of the Home: Have at least one smoke detector on each level of your home, including basements.
  • In the Kitchen: Place detectors near, but not too close to, the kitchen. Avoid putting them directly above stoves or ovens to minimize false alarms from cooking.

Proper placement ensures your alarms are positioned for maximum effectiveness, providing you with the best possible response time.

Why You Need a Licensed Electrician for Smoke Detector Installation

While it may be tempting to install smoke detectors on your own, hiring a licensed electrician is the best way to ensure they are installed correctly and safely. Here’s why a professional installation is essential:

  • Knowledge of Building Codes: A licensed electrician understands local safety codes and regulations, ensuring your smoke detectors meet Atlanta’s requirements.
  • Expertise with Electrical Systems: Electricians have the training needed to wire your smoke detectors safely and correctly, reducing risks associated with improper installation.
  • Safety Assurance: Working with electricity involves inherent risks. A licensed electrician has the tools and experience to handle these safely, giving you peace of mind.

For residents in Atlanta, McCall Enterprises, Inc. is an excellent choice for professional smoke detector installation. Their team of licensed electricians has the expertise to properly wire and place smoke detectors, offering you and your family optimal protection.

Protect Your Family’s Future with McCall Enterprises, Inc.

As you prepare for the colder months, take a proactive step in fire safety by upgrading to hardwired smoke detectors with battery backup. Installing and maintaining these detectors is an investment in your family’s safety, providing a reliable, early-warning system that could make all the difference in an emergency.

If you’re in Atlanta and need a trusted electrician, contact McCall Enterprises, Inc. With years of experience in electrical installations and a commitment to customer safety, McCall Enterprises will ensure your smoke detectors are correctly installed, giving your family the protection they need. Don’t wait—schedule your installation today and secure your home’s safety this Fire Prevention Month.

Posted on

Why Atlanta Homeowners Should Regularly Inspect Their Electrical Panel Boxes

Maintaining your home’s electrical system is crucial for safety and preventing costly repairs. For Atlanta homeowners, scheduling regular inspections of your panel box is a simple step that can save you thousands of dollars and ensure peace of mind. In this post, we’ll explain why panel box inspections are essential, the risks of neglect, and how professional electricians like McCall Enterprises, Inc. can help.

What is an Electrical Panel Box?

Your electrical panel box, often referred to as a breaker box, is the central hub for your home’s electricity. It distributes power to various circuits throughout your house and protects your electrical system from overloads. Each breaker in the panel is designed to trip if the circuit it controls becomes overloaded, preventing damage to your appliances and reducing fire risks.

Why Regular Inspections are Necessary

1. Prevent Electrical Shutdowns

Electrical shutdowns can occur when your panel box isn’t operating properly. Loose connections or a poorly seated breaker can lead to disruptions, leaving you without power. Regular inspections, ideally every six months, help identify and fix small issues before they escalate into major problems.

2. Avoid Costly Repairs

Electrical problems often start small but can quickly spiral into expensive repairs. For example, loose connections or improper seating can cause burning that damages the bus bar inside your panel. Once the bus bar is damaged, it can lead to extensive repairs or even a complete panel replacement. Regular inspections can catch these issues early, saving you both time and money.

3. Reduce Fire Hazards

Electricity is a powerful force and a potential hazard. Loose connections or overheating components inside your panel box can cause electrical fires. Routine inspections ensure your system is safe and operating as intended, reducing the risk of fire in your home.

Signs Your Panel Box Needs an Inspection

Even with regular maintenance, it’s important to recognize when your panel box may need immediate attention. Look out for these warning signs:

  • Flickering Lights: This can indicate loose wiring or an overloaded circuit.
  • Burning Smell: A distinct electrical odor near your panel box may signal overheating or burning components.
  • Tripped Breakers: Frequent trips can indicate a larger issue with your electrical system.
  • Hot Panel: If your panel box feels warm to the touch, it’s time to call an electrician.

The Dangers of DIY Inspections

While some homeowners might be tempted to inspect their panel box themselves, this is not advisable. Electrical systems are complex and dangerous to work with if you’re not a trained professional. Mishandling wires or breakers can lead to serious injuries or further damage to your home’s electrical system. Hiring a licensed electrician ensures that the job is done safely and correctly.

Why Choose McCall Enterprises, Inc. in Atlanta, GA

When it comes to electrical panel inspections in Atlanta, McCall Enterprises, Inc. stands out for its expertise and dedication to customer safety. Their licensed electricians are experienced in identifying and resolving issues in panel boxes, ensuring your system operates efficiently and safely.

Here’s what sets McCall Enterprises, Inc. apart:

  • Expertise: Highly trained electricians with years of experience.
  • Safety First: Thorough inspections to prevent hazards.
  • Affordable Rates: Cost-effective solutions tailored to your needs.
  • Local Knowledge: Serving Atlanta homeowners with a deep understanding of local codes and regulations.

How Often Should You Schedule an Inspection?

For most Atlanta homeowners, scheduling an inspection every six months is a good rule of thumb. However, if your home is older or you’ve recently experienced electrical issues, you may need more frequent inspections. Discuss your home’s specific needs with a licensed electrician to create a maintenance schedule that works for you.

Conclusion

Regular panel box inspections are essential for keeping your home safe, functional, and free from costly electrical repairs. Loose connections, improperly seated breakers, and bus bar damage are common issues that can escalate if left unchecked. By scheduling inspections every six months and relying on trusted professionals like McCall Enterprises, Inc., you can avoid hazards and ensure your home’s electrical system remains in top condition.

Call McCall Enterprises, Inc. Today!

If you’re a homeowner in Atlanta, don’t wait until an electrical problem disrupts your life. Contact McCall Enterprises, Inc. today to schedule your panel box inspection and keep your home safe.

By following this advice, you’ll protect your investment, your family, and your peace of mind.

Posted on

Why You Should Consider Upgrading to a Quad Receptacle for Safety and Convenience

In today’s world of electronic devices and home appliances, having enough outlets to safely power everything is essential. While a duplex receptacle (two-outlet setup) may be standard, it’s often insufficient, leading many to rely on extension cords. However, extension cords can pose fire hazards and are not a long-term solution. Upgrading to a quad receptacle provides more outlets, increased safety, and peace of mind for your home. Here’s why a quad receptacle is a smart choice and why hiring a licensed electrician, like McCall Enterprises, Inc. in Atlanta, is essential.

What is a Quad Receptacle?

A quad receptacle is a wall outlet with four outlets instead of the traditional two, allowing more devices to be plugged in directly without needing extension cords or power strips. This type of outlet is ideal for spaces with multiple electronics, such as home offices, entertainment centers, and kitchens. By upgrading to a quad receptacle, you can power more devices from a single location, improving both convenience and safety.

The Risks of Relying on Extension Cords

When homeowners find themselves short on outlets, they often turn to extension cords as a quick fix. However, extension cords come with several risks:

  1. Fire Hazards: Extension cords are not designed for continuous, high-load use. Over time, they can overheat, especially if multiple high-wattage devices are plugged in. This overheating can result in fires, posing a significant risk to your home and family.
  2. Tripping Hazards: Extension cords stretched across a room can create tripping hazards, particularly in high-traffic areas. This is especially dangerous in homes with young children or elderly residents.
  3. Wiring Damage: Frequent plugging and unplugging can cause wear and tear on the cord, exposing wires and increasing the risk of electric shock.

By upgrading to a quad receptacle, you can eliminate the need for extension cords, minimizing these risks and ensuring safer power distribution in your home.

Benefits of Installing a Quad Receptacle

A quad receptacle offers several advantages over traditional duplex outlets, particularly in high-use areas where more outlets are needed. Here’s how upgrading to a quad receptacle can improve your home:

  1. Increased Convenience: With four outlets, you can power multiple devices without the need for extension cords or power strips. This is especially helpful in home offices, kitchens, and entertainment areas where you need to plug in various appliances and electronics.
  2. Enhanced Safety: A correctly grounded quad receptacle distributes electricity safely, reducing the risk of overheating or electrical fires. With the extra outlets, you won’t be tempted to overload a single outlet, a common cause of electrical issues.
  3. Reduced Clutter: Removing extension cords and power strips results in a cleaner, more organized space. Fewer cords also mean fewer tripping hazards and a more visually appealing setup.
  4. Long-Term Reliability: Quad receptacles are designed for frequent use and can handle high-powered devices like computers, kitchen appliances, and entertainment systems without strain.

Why Proper Grounding is Essential for Safety

One of the most important aspects of installing a quad receptacle is ensuring it is properly grounded. Proper grounding provides a safe pathway for electrical currents in the event of a fault, protecting both the device and the user from electric shock or fire hazards. Here’s why grounding matters:

  • Protects Against Power Surges: Proper grounding can help redirect power surges away from plugged-in devices, preventing damage.
  • Reduces Risk of Electrical Shock: Grounding minimizes the chance of shock by providing a safe route for stray electrical currents.
  • Ensures Fire Safety: Grounded outlets are less likely to overheat or spark, reducing the risk of fire.

For a quad receptacle to be safely installed and grounded, it’s crucial to hire a licensed electrician who understands local building codes and safety requirements.

Why You Should Hire a Licensed Electrician for Quad Receptacle Installation

While DIY electrical work may seem tempting, hiring a licensed electrician is essential for safety and compliance. Here’s why professional installation matters:

  1. Expert Knowledge of Electrical Codes: Licensed electricians understand local building codes and can ensure your new quad receptacle meets all regulations, reducing the risk of future electrical issues.
  2. Proper Wiring and Grounding: An electrician ensures that your receptacle is wired and grounded correctly, preventing the risk of shock, fire, or device damage.
  3. Professional Assessment of Electrical Load: Adding outlets can increase the load on your electrical panel. A licensed electrician can assess your home’s electrical system to ensure it can safely handle the additional demand.
  4. Peace of Mind: With professional installation, you can be confident that your new quad receptacle is safe, compliant, and reliable.

McCall Enterprises, Inc.: Your Trusted Electrician in Atlanta

If you’re in Atlanta and considering upgrading to a quad receptacle, McCall Enterprises, Inc. is your trusted partner. Their team of licensed electricians offers professional installation services with a commitment to safety and customer satisfaction.

  • Experience and Expertise: McCall Enterprises has extensive experience with residential electrical installations and is well-versed in local codes.
  • Safety-First Approach: Safety is their top priority, ensuring every installation is up to code and secure.
  • Reliable Service: Known for their professionalism and expertise, McCall Enterprises, Inc. is a top choice for homeowners in Atlanta seeking safe, high-quality electrical solutions.

Upgrade Your Home’s Safety and Convenience with a Quad Receptacle Today

A quad receptacle is a smart, safe solution for homes with high electrical demands. With more outlets, enhanced safety, and the elimination of extension cords, a quad receptacle offers the perfect balance of convenience and security. For homeowners in Atlanta, McCall Enterprises, Inc. provides professional installation to help you protect your family and your home. Contact them today to schedule an installation and enjoy the benefits of a safer, more efficient electrical setup.

Posted on

Signs it time for a breaker box replacement

circuit breaker

Your electrical panel is a key component to help distribute electricity throughout your home. It comes built-in with a failsafe if too much electricity is trying to get distributed, such as an electricity spike. That’s what those circuit breakers in your electrical panel are for, and they help to cut electrical distribution in that specific area. That’s why it’s important to know when it may be time to upgrade and replace your electrical panel to keep your home safe.

It has odors indicating something may be burning

The last thing you want with your electrical panel is to have it be warm when touched or have it smell like something is burning on the inside. Those could be the first warning signs of an electrical panel issue. The type of burning smell, whether wood or plastic, can help narrow down the source, but it’s always better to reach out to a qualified electrician who can resolve the situation faster.

It’s reached its end of life

Your electrical panel typically has a lifespan that ranges between 25 years and 40 years. But, of course, with proper maintenance on your electrical panel, it’s more likely to be closer to 40 years. After that, it’s simply time for a replacement and an upgrade to ensure the functionality is working. This can easily be noticed during the annual maintenance checkup of your home’s electrical panel and other components.

Your lights are flickering

While this could signify that it’s time to replace the lightbulb or use better quality ones, it can also tell you that the underlying reason is the electrical panel itself. If you notice your lights are constantly flickering or are dim or flickering when you turn on other appliances, this is a major red flag that the electrical distribution is off.

You find yourself with breakers tripping all the time

Another area to consider is if the minute you start to use electricity, whether to turn on the lights or power on major appliances, the breakers themselves trip. The reason for this could be an old electrical panel. However, there could also be a faulty issue, such as the electrical panel not functioning properly or it’s working too hard, and thus it’s best to have a circuit panel replacement.

You might be preparing for a renovation

Renovations are always a great time to consider many other aspects of your house that could be upgraded, such as circuit panel replacement. You can take the time to replace the wiring and connections where necessary and get yourself a much more efficient option for the electrical panels.

In the end

No matter what, if you feel like anything above is happening to you, or your electrical panel seems to be not fully functional, it’s always best to get a highly reviewed electrician to come in and look. If they recommend a circuit panel replacement, then go for it, as you will be better off. You’ll be saving yourself a bunch of time and money and have professionals handle it safely and securely.

Posted on

Residential Electrical Trends for 2023

Eco-friendly green leaf house icon on white background

Some dramatic changes are expected to continue throughout 2023 for what is possible and what you may call your electrician for. With electricity prices becoming so volatile, it’s made many homeowners think about how they receive and consume electricity.

How we charge

This has been ongoing for quite a while, and we may start seeing the end of the typical electrical outlet. As many consumers are charging their electronics via USB cables and nontraditional plugs, it’s leading to designs with USB outlets as the preferred choice of charging. Wiring, in general, will need to change to accommodate this new type of charging and the prioritization of how the wiring is placed in new buildings in the first place, from electrical wiring to cabling for data and the internet.

Smart Homes

Already becoming more popular year over year, we’re seeing more homes becoming smart homes. Having the right electrician can help set up a smart home from the ground up or retrofit an existing home.

This isn’t just a thermostat that knows when to turn off the HVAC system when an optimal temperature is hit. It’s more about setting the proper lighting when a certain time is reached or when people enter the room, having your home theater system fully connected, your appliances accessible via mobile or remote, and many other components to help build a full smart home of optimization and convenience.

Green Energy

How we get our energy these days is a big topic, especially with events that occurred in the past years. Solar and other types of renewable energy are becoming more commonplace. Therefore, having an experienced electrician to ensure the right setup and connectivity will help go a long way toward optimal output.

This is also a shift in how we get our heat and hot water through electrical energy versus more traditional oil and gas. It can even get to the point of having storage batteries to collect excess energy to be used as needed.

Complex and sophisticated lighting options

LED lighting is going to get a lot more commonplace as well in 2023. First, they are an excellent option when it comes to being energy efficient. Whether it’s through LED bulbs or LED strips to provide enhanced lighting scenarios, not only will they help with the monthly utility bills and sustainability, but they will also be controlled by your smartphone, adding to the smart home feature and trends that we’re seeing.

Your local electrician is ready to serve you

At McCall Electric, we like to stay on top of the trends, and as a licensed and insured electrician, we will be happy to offer you the options above and many more. We like to work with our clients on an individual basis, with full transparency, so that you are fully aware of the task at hand, and our approach to getting it done right, the first time. So feel free to reach out and drop us a line when you’re next in need of an electrician.

 

Posted on

Know When it’s Time for Circuit Breaker replacement

commercial electrician in atlanta ga

While it may fail to cross your mind, replacing your circuit breaker is essential to a smooth running home. By routinely replacing your circuit breaker, you can avoid damaging your appliances and minimize your chances of having an extended power outage.

Additionally, since they are often located in less visible areas, you may not realize when an issue with a panel has formed, which could mean a disaster for your home!

Not replacing your circuit breaker can cause flickering lights, poor performance, and more. Here are the key elements you should look out for to know when to replace your circuit breaker:

Burning Smell

If you’ve begun to notice a burning smell coming from your panel or your home in general, it most likely means that you have overheated insulation and wiring. This is an issue that requires you to replace your circuit breaker immediately, as it means your insulation is failing to protect your home from shortages.

In the case of a burning smell, you should turn off your main power immediately and get your circuit breaker replaced

Physical Damage

One of the most dangerous occurrences with circuit breakers is a degraded or melted wire. A melted wire, which can be recognized through scorch marks around the breaker, is a potential fire hazard. Since breakers are responsible for electricity in the entire house, a melted wire can potentially put your whole home in flames.

In this case, it’s essential that you get your circuit breaker replaced.

Old Age

Sometimes it’s not a burning smell or a melted wire which is putting your house at risk – often times it’s simply that your circuit breaker has been installed for too long and is at an increased likelihood of failure. Your circuit breaker should be inspected around every ten years, as this is when they are likely to begin to fail or falter in quality.

Regular Breaker Tripping

Breaker trips are intended to save your home from too much power being drawn in. However, many people have encountered that a simple appliance such as a microwave or a vacuum has been the piece that tips your breaker over the edge to trip.

If you find that a breaker trips every time you use a specific plug or appliance, your circuit breaker is at a much higher risk of failure and should be replaced to protect your home.

Conclusion

Circuit breakers are often tucked away under the stairs or in a low visibility location, which leads lots of people to forget that they lie at the heart of electricity in your home. Since running safe electricity is essential for home life, it’s always vital to get your circuit breaker checked or replaced if you encounter any issues.

If you’ve noticed a burning smell, physical damage, old age, or regular breaker tripping occurring within your circuit breaker, then it may just be time to swap it in for a new one or at least have it checked! See our Google Reviews and Call us today if you have questions about your circuit panel.

Posted on

How to Choose the Best Under Cabinet Lighting for Your Kitchen

cabinet lighting

Cabinets can be a nightmare when it comes to blocking light. You’ll know the struggle all too well If you’ve dealt with trying to cook under a cabinet and failing to see what’s going on clearly! Luckily there is a solution: with the help of a trusted Atlanta electrical contractor, you can find the perfect under-cabinet lighting or your kitchen which will give you the light you need to follow recipes and cook in peace.

If you need more info on the best under-cabinet lighting for your kitchen, we’re here to help! Here are some types of under-cabinet lighting and where they’re best suited:

Battery Powered Under Cabinet Lights

If you’re looking for a lighting solution that can be installed just about anywhere, then battery-powered under-cabinet lighting may be the thing you’re looking for. Since they’re battery-powered, they’ll work even the powers out! However, you will have to deal with possible faulty batteries and replacements, which may be more hassle than you’ve bargained for – if that sounds like a drawback to you, maybe consider other options.

Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Lighting

With the help of a trusted Atlanta electrical contractor, you can avoid batteries altogether with hardwired LED lighting. This will connect your lighting to a switch so you can easily control it whenever you need it. It’s also a great solution for people looking to hide their wires, as a trusted Atalanta electrical contractor will be able to make these lights look as seamless as possible.

Plugin Under Cabinet Lighting

If you’re looking for something in-between battery powered and hardwired, this may be the option for you. Plugin lighting is powered using an existing outlet in your kitchen. While this means there will be more wire exposure than a hardwired alternative, it’s also more reliable and lower maintenance than battery-powered lighting. So long as there is an existing plug socket near enough to the space you want lit, a plugin under cabinet lighting could be a good solution.

Which Solution Should I Go For?

The answer really depends on your budget and needs. If you want to go for the best quality solution that will look the most elegant, then we definitely recommend going hardwired with your under-cabinet lighting. This will give your lighting an integrated feel and ensure that you don’t have to stress about wires sticking out or battery replacements. While you will have to enlist the help of a trusted Atlanta electrical contractor, it’s certainly worth it for the elegant and seamless results you receive.

Summary

You can get under cabinet lighting in battery form, plugin, or hardwired. While battery and plugin cabinet lighting are perfectly respectable solutions for your under cabinet lighting concerns, hardwired is by far the best option to go for if you can afford it. If you’re looking to get hardwired under cabinet lighting installed in your kitchen, be sure to contact a trusted Atlanta electrical contractor.

Posted on

Residential Lighting Trends

Modern kitchen with island and pendant lighting

Despite what you may think, the world of residential lighting is ever-growing! The smart tech industry is finding its way into the homes of millions of happy customers, and people are looking for more ways to spice up their lighting by implementing smart tech. As well as this, there’s been a huge boost in creative uses of LED lights within the home.

If you’re searching for a new way to give some dazzle to your interior design, then look no further! We’ve rounded up a few of the latest trends in residential lighting:

LED Lighted Closets

LED lights are cheaper and more accessible than ever, so they’re finding their way into plenty of unexpected places in houses and apartments, from desk lights to ceiling fans.

A new trend has emerged that aims to light up the closet: LED lights to provide the perfect solution to the lack of light source in your closet. By installing LED lights in the closet, people can now easily find the clothing they’re looking for, all while being able to choose the perfect color to light their items up with!

If you’re a fashionista looking for a way to spruce up your clothing decisions, closet LED lights may be the residential lighting trend you have been waiting for!

Smart Controls

Everyone’s been there: you’re tucked up, ready for bed, until you realize that you’ve left the lights on, and the light switch is on the other side of the room! Smart controls have become increasingly popular over the last few years to fix problems just like this. From the comfort of their bed, consumers can easily turn their lights off and on from their phone or a dedicated controller.

This year, tech-savvy consumers have gotten more creative with their use of smart lighting. A common trend for 2022 is smart light presets. By making all the lights smart controlled, you can make it, so one button changes all the lights in the room!

Perhaps you have a ‘party’ button that will dim your lamps, get your LEDs flashing, and even turn on the speaker in the corner! Or maybe you have an ‘evening wind down’ button that will dim all your lights and change the main light to a warm color which is easy on the eye. The possibilities are endless with light presets, a residential lighting trend that will take the world by storm this year!

Conclusion

With the introduction of smart tech and more accessible LED lighting, residential lighting has opened avenues to a whole world of exploration! So if you want your house or apartment to feel like 2022, why not try sprucing up your closet with some subtle LED lights.

If you’re feeling extra futuristic, throw yourself into the smart tech lighting world and set yourself up with some great light presets that will be sure to entertain any guests and make your life convenient. Now has never been a more ideal time to explore all the new trends that residential lighting has to offer!  See our customer reviews and contact us about your lighting needs today.

 

Call Now for a Quote!