Why Older Homes Are at Risk: The Importance of Arc-Fault Protection

Arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) are essential devices that can prevent electrical fires in your home, yet many older homes don’t have them installed. AFCIs are designed to detect dangerous electrical arcs, which are one of the most common causes of fires resulting from faulty wiring or damaged electrical systems. If your home was built before the early 2000s, there’s a good chance you don’t have the level of protection that modern homes are required to have today.

Why Arc-Fault Protection is Important

An electrical arc is a high-power discharge that occurs when electricity jumps between two conductors. This can happen when wires are frayed, loose, or damaged. These arcs generate a lot of heat, which can ignite nearby materials such as wood, insulation, or carpeting, leading to a fire. In fact, electrical malfunctions are a leading cause of house fires in the U.S.

AFCIs are specifically designed to detect these dangerous arcs and automatically shut off power to the affected circuit before it can cause a fire. They are now required in most areas of the home by modern building codes, including bedrooms, living areas, and kitchens.

Older Homes and the Risk of Fire

If your home was built more than 20 years ago, it’s unlikely to have AFCIs installed. Traditional circuit breakers can protect against overloads and short circuits, but they won’t detect dangerous arcs. This means that older homes are at greater risk for electrical fires, especially if the wiring has deteriorated over time.

How Can You Upgrade Your Home?

At Bowman Electric, we recommend retrofitting older homes with AFCIs as a critical safety measure. This upgrade involves installing AFCIs in your electrical panel to replace standard breakers, offering enhanced protection without extensive rewiring. Our team of licensed electricians can inspect your home’s electrical system, evaluate your wiring, and suggest the best way to integrate arc-fault protection.

Benefits of AFCI Installation

• Fire Prevention: AFCIs offer superior protection against electrical fires, giving homeowners peace of mind.

• Code Compliance: Installing AFCIs helps bring your home up to modern safety standards.

• Increased Home Value: Upgrading your electrical system can increase your home's resale value, as potential buyers will appreciate the added safety features.

Schedule Your AFCI Upgrade Today!

If you live in an older home, don’t wait for a sign of trouble to address electrical safety. Contact Bowman Electric today to schedule an electrical inspection and discuss arc-fault protection options for your home. Keep your family safe by taking proactive steps to prevent electrical fires before they start!

Bowman Electric – Your Home, Your Safety, Our Priority.

Fall Storms and Power Outages: How to Prepare Your Home’s Electrical System

As fall settles in, so do the unpredictable storms that can bring strong winds, rain, and even early snowfall. These weather changes often lead to power outages, leaving homes without electricity when it’s needed most. But with a few proactive steps, you can protect your home’s electrical system and ensure you're ready to handle the fall weather. Here’s how you can prepare.

1. Install Surge Protection

Fall storms can cause power surges, which are sudden increases in voltage that can damage sensitive electronics and appliances. Whole-house surge protectors safeguard your home’s electrical system by absorbing excess energy and preventing it from reaching your valuable devices. This simple upgrade can save you from costly repairs or replacements after a storm.

2. Consider a Backup Generator

A generator is one of the best investments for homeowners in areas prone to power outages. Whether you opt for a portable or standby generator, it ensures that your home has a reliable source of power when the grid goes down. A standby generator, professionally installed and connected to your home’s electrical system, will automatically kick in when the power fails, providing uninterrupted electricity.

3. Inspect and Update Your Electrical Panel

Your home’s electrical panel is the heart of your power system, distributing electricity to every outlet and appliance. An outdated or overloaded panel can become a safety hazard during storms, leading to tripped circuits or even fire risks. Fall is the perfect time to have your panel inspected by a licensed electrician. If your home has expanded or your energy use has increased, consider upgrading to a modern panel that can handle the extra load.

4. Check GFCI Outlets for Safety

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets are designed to protect against electrical shocks, especially in areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces. Fall brings increased moisture from rain and dew, making it essential to ensure that your GFCI outlets are functioning properly. Test them by pressing the “test” button, and if they don’t respond, it’s time for a replacement.

5. Secure Outdoor Electrical Components

Fall winds can wreak havoc on outdoor electrical systems. Ensure all outdoor outlets are weatherproofed and equipped with proper covers. If you have outdoor lighting or electrical equipment, check for frayed cords or exposed wires that could lead to dangerous electrical faults during wet conditions. Hiring a professional to inspect and secure these systems can help prevent accidents when storms roll in.

6. Unplug Electronics During Storms

While surge protectors offer protection against power surges, it’s still a good idea to unplug non-essential electronics during a storm. Devices like computers, televisions, and gaming consoles are particularly vulnerable to surges. Unplugging these items when a storm is approaching can add an extra layer of protection.

7. Schedule a Professional Electrical Inspection

If you’re unsure about the state of your home’s electrical system, it’s always best to call in a professional. Bowman Electric offers thorough inspections to help identify any potential issues before they become a problem during a storm. Whether it’s checking the panel, outlets, or overall wiring, a professional inspection can give you peace of mind as fall storms approach.

Prepare Now for Fall Storms

Don’t wait until the power goes out to think about your home’s electrical system. With a few simple upgrades and a proactive approach, you can protect your home from the impacts of fall storms and ensure that your family stays safe and comfortable.

For more information or to schedule an inspection or generator installation, contact Bowman Electric today. We’re here to help you weather the storm.

Why Do My Lights Flicker When I Turn On a Large Appliance?

Have you ever noticed your lights flicker briefly when you start up a heater, air conditioner, or another large appliance? It's a common experience in many homes, and while it might catch your attention, it's usually not something to be concerned about. Understanding why this happens can provide peace of mind and help you make informed decisions about your home’s electrical system.

The Power of Big Appliances

Large appliances, especially those with motors like heaters, refrigerators, or air conditioners, require a significant amount of power to start. When you turn them on, they draw a surge of electricity from your home's electrical system to get up and running. This brief surge can cause a slight dip in the voltage available to other devices, like your lights, resulting in a momentary flicker.

A Common Occurrence

This flickering is a normal part of how electrical systems operate, particularly in homes with several high-demand devices. It’s similar to when you start a car and the headlights dim for a split second before the engine fully turns over. In most cases, this flicker is simply a sign that your appliances are doing their job and your electrical system is responding as it should.

Understanding the Flicker

Here are a few reasons why you might notice this flickering:

1. Initial Power Surge: When large appliances start, they draw more power than they do when running steadily. This extra demand causes a brief dip in the available voltage, which might make your lights dim or flicker for a moment.

2. Shared Circuits: In many homes, lights and appliances may share the same electrical circuit. When the appliance turns on, it briefly uses more of the circuit's capacity, leading to a momentary reduction in the power available to your lights.

3. Balanced Power Use: Modern electrical systems are designed to handle these power surges efficiently. However, if several high-demand devices are running simultaneously, the flickering might be more noticeable.

When to Consider Upgrades

While occasional flickering is typically no cause for alarm, there are scenarios where you might want to consider small upgrades or adjustments to optimize your home's electrical performance:

• Dedicated Circuits: For those who use large appliances frequently, installing dedicated circuits for these devices can help distribute power more evenly and reduce the chances of flickering.

• Energy-Efficient Appliances: Modern appliances are designed to be more energy-efficient, reducing the power surge needed to start up. Upgrading older appliances can minimize flickering and improve overall energy usage.

• Smart Home Solutions: Investing in smart home technology that monitors and manages power distribution can help balance the load on your electrical system, reducing flicker and enhancing overall efficiency.

A brief flicker when you turn on a heater or large appliance is usually a normal part of your electrical system's operation. It’s simply a sign that your appliances are drawing the power they need to function properly. However, if you have any concerns or if the flickering seems unusual or persistent, the team at Bowman Electric is here to help. We can assess your system and suggest simple upgrades or solutions to ensure your home’s electrical system continues to run smoothly.

Whether you're considering new appliances, need advice on energy efficiency, or want to optimize your electrical setup, Bowman Electric is your go-to partner for all things electrical. Reach out to us anytime for expert guidance and support.