At A-Star Electric we want to help make your home or business run as smoothly as it can. Our skilled journeymen electricians in can help you choose the ultimate finishing touches so that your electrical service is out of sight, out of mind, but provides you with every convenience possible.
Why Should I Update My Outlets?
You may need to update your outlets if you are often experiencing power surges resulting in a blown circuit. This is an obvious sign that your circuit is overloaded. When we install your new outlets we will also add the additional circuits your electrical panel needs to properly handle the load, or even completely upgrade your electrical panel to more efficiently distribute electricity throughout your home or business.
Another sign that you should upgrade your outlets is if you find yourself constantly using extension cords and power bars. Both of these options should never be thought of as a permanent solution to a lack of places to plug in your appliances. Extension cords and power bars are not made for constant use. They will degrade over time, and eventually either simply stop working or, more dangerously, fail to stop a surge, then spark and potentially start a fire.
Newer outlets come with advanced surge protection, which protects your sensitive electronics and appliances from degrading. They are also equipped with superior arc-fault circuit interrupters that will detect when wiring is overheating, and shut down the outlets before any damage occurs. Outlets with additional innovative ground fault circuit interrupters will also sense when there is an interruption or power outage, shutting down so that when the power comes back on your electronics are protected from a surge.
For those with small children, tamper-resistant outlets are a must. These come with obstructions that will not allow for the insertion of any foreign objects, which will help keep the little ones safe.
Placement of Outlets
Of course, the most obvious place for electrical outlets are your walls. But where on your walls? Since televisions are often being hung up high these days, we have been putting in more and more outlets in the optimal position to watch your favourite shows but still have your TV out of the way.
And given today’s home’s open-floor plans, it is becoming more and more common to place outlets in the floor. We can install attractive floor boxes in convenient locations so you never have to run a potentially unsafe extension cord again. Floor boxes come in a number of different colours to match your décor – brass, nickel-plated, black, even faux wood – and are sleek and unobtrusive. Plug in lamps, fans, electric blankets, laptops, and game consoles without having to drag messy cords across a room.
Another option might be recessed outlets, which are designed to sit further back in your wall so that your plugs aren’t sticking out awkwardly. Recessed outlets make it easier for when you want to place furniture directly against a wall. They are also ideal for home entertainment systems, as different varieties can be installed with cable hookups to make the areas behind your tvs as neat and clean as possible. We highly recommend these for businesses as well!
USB and Smart Outlets
Considering how many devices use a USB port these days, there are now a number of outlets available that also have USB chargers built in. Imagine never having to search for the plug-in part of your cellphone charger again!
Smart outlets are also relatively new. They work just like a regular outlet, but can be controlled remotely by your cellphone. These can be ideal for when you’re away and want to turn on a lamp or lighting fixture to make it look like you’re home.
Choose A-Star for you Calgary Electrician Needs
Update your outlets to streamline your home or business and make it function as best as possible. As well as this service, we also specialize in electrical panel replacements, electrical wire replacement, overhead line service, and lighting design for Calgary homes and businesses.
Our certified journeymen electricians have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, and we strive to be known as the best residential or business electrical contractor in Calgary. Contact A-Star Electric for excellent service in Calgary.