Stay Safe and Efficient This Winter: The Importance of Panel Upgrades for Your Home

With the winter season in full effect, it's not just our wardrobes that need a change — our homes do too, particularly when it comes to electrical safety and efficiency. One critical aspect that often goes unnoticed is the electrical panel. At Bowman Electric, we emphasize the importance of panel upgrades during winter for several reasons.

Ensuring Safety in Increased Electrical Demands

Winter brings a significant increase in electrical demands. Space heaters, electric blankets, and holiday lighting contribute to this surge. An outdated or overloaded electrical panel can be a serious safety hazard, leading to problems like circuit overloads, tripped breakers, or even fires. Upgrading your panel ensures it can handle these increased demands safely.

Preventing Outages and Inconveniences

Frequent power outages and flickering lights are more than just annoyances; they indicate that your current electrical system is struggling. Upgrading your panel can help prevent these issues, ensuring a steady and reliable power supply during cold months when you need it most.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

Modern electrical panels are designed for efficiency. Upgrading can help reduce energy waste, which is not only good for the environment but also for your wallet. An efficient panel distributes electricity more effectively, potentially lowering your winter energy bills.

Compliance with Current Electrical Codes

Electrical codes are updated regularly for safety and efficiency. An older panel might not be compliant with the latest standards. Upgrading ensures your home's electrical system is up to date, which is especially important if you're considering selling your home in the future.

Supporting Home Renovations and New Appliances

If you're planning any home renovations or adding new appliances, an upgraded panel is essential. It ensures your electrical system can support these additions without overloading your current setup.

Professional Assessment and Installation

At Bowman Electric, we recommend a professional safety inspection of your electrical panel before winter sets in. Our team can evaluate your current system and recommend the best course of action. Remember, panel upgrades are not DIY projects — they require professional knowledge and expertise to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.

Upgrading your electrical panel is a proactive step towards ensuring your home’s safety, efficiency, and comfort. It's an investment that pays off by protecting your family, reducing energy costs, and keeping your home up to date with the latest electrical standards.

For more information or to schedule an assessment, contact Bowman Electric today! Stay warm, safe, and efficient this winter!

Bowman Electric: Staying Safe with Space Heaters - Essential Tips for a Warm and Secure Home

As the temperature drops, the use of space heaters in our homes increases significantly. While these handy devices provide much-needed warmth, it's critical to use them safely to prevent potential electrical hazards. At Bowman Electric, your safety is our top priority. Here are some essential tips to ensure you use space heaters safely and efficiently.

Understanding the Risks

Space heaters are a common cause of home fires and electrical accidents. According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires in the United States. These risks are often due to improper use or failure to follow safety guidelines.

Choosing the Right Heater

1. Select Certified Heaters: Always choose a space heater that has been certified by a recognized testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). This certification means the heater meets specific safety standards.

2. Right Size for Your Space: Choose a heater suitable for the size of your room. A heater too powerful for a space can overheat, whereas a smaller unit will work overtime and may not be effective.

Safe Placement and Usage

1. Maintain Safe Distance: Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including papers, clothing, and rugs.

2. Stable and Flat Surface: Place the heater on a hard, level, and nonflammable surface. Avoid placing it on carpets, rugs, or beds.

3. Avoid High-Traffic Areas: Position the heater in a less frequented area to reduce the risk of it being knocked over.

Electrical Safety Practices

1. Inspect the Heater and Cords: Before using any heater, inspect it and its cords for any damage. If you notice any frayed wires or damage, do not use it.

2. Plug Directly into the Outlet: Always plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. Do not use an extension cord or power strip, as these can overheat and cause a fire.

3. Circuit Overload: Ensure that the heater doesn’t overload your home’s circuits. If your lights flicker or the circuit trips when the heater is on, it could be a sign of an electrical overload.

Operational Safety

1. Never Leave Unattended: Never leave a space heater running when you leave the room or go to sleep. Always turn it off when not in use.

2. Supervise Children and Pets: Always supervise children and pets when a space heater is in use to prevent accidental burns or the heater being knocked over.

Regular Maintenance

1. Regular Cleaning: Dust and debris can accumulate on the heater and become a fire hazard. Regularly clean the heater according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Professional Inspection: If you have any concerns about your heater or electrical system, contact a professional at Bowman Electric for an inspection.

At Bowman Electric, we understand the importance of staying warm during the colder months. However, we urge you to prioritize safety when using space heaters. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the warmth your space heater provides without compromising the safety of your home and loved ones. Remember, if you have any electrical concerns or need advice, our team at Bowman Electric is always here to help.

Start the New Year Safely: Why Now is the Ideal Time for Electrical Safety Inspections

As the New Year unfolds, it's a time of new beginnings and resolutions. Among the many commitments we make towards improving our lives, ensuring the safety and security of our homes should be a top priority. At Bowman Electric, we believe that the start of the year is the perfect opportunity for homeowners to schedule an electrical safety inspection. Here's why:

1. Preventive Maintenance for Peace of Mind

After the holiday season, your home's electrical system might have experienced additional strain from festive lighting and increased usage of appliances. An inspection at the start of the year acts as preventive maintenance, identifying potential hazards before they become serious problems.

2. Year-Round Safety

Electrical hazards, if left unchecked, can lead to dangerous situations like fires or electrical shocks. An early-year inspection ensures that your home remains safe for you and your family throughout the year.

3. Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

A thorough electrical inspection can also highlight areas where your home may be losing energy efficiency. By addressing these issues, homeowners can enjoy reduced energy bills and contribute to a more sustainable environment.

4. Updated Compliance and Standards

With continuous updates in electrical standards and safety regulations, a New Year inspection ensures your home's electrical system complies with the latest requirements, keeping your property up-to-date and secure.

5. Convenient Scheduling

The post-holiday period is often less hectic, making it a convenient time to schedule an inspection without disrupting your daily routine. This ease of scheduling means there's one less thing to worry about as you dive into the new year.

At Bowman Electric, your safety is our utmost concern. We encourage homeowners to take this opportunity to ensure their homes are safe, efficient, and compliant. Our team of experienced, licensed and insured electricians is ready to provide comprehensive electrical safety inspections tailored to your home's unique needs.

Contact us today to schedule your New Year electrical safety inspection and start the year with confidence and peace of mind.