4 Projects A Miami Electrician Tackles

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While we never recommend that anyone does their own electrical, we understand why you would like to tackle a few things on your own.  However, there are a few electrical jobs that you should always hire an electrician for.  There are many reasons as to why, but it is mainly for your own safety. 

4 Projects A Miami Electrician Handles

  1. Upgrading Your Circuit Breaker

Your circuit breaker is within your electrical panel and it is what is used to power everything in your home.  Most of the time, homeowners like yourself upgrade them, because they need more power for all the tech items in their home.  However, other people do the upgrade, because they are constantly dealing with blown fuses and flickering lights. 

  • Adding Any Type of Outlets

You may think that it is super easy to add any type of outlet to your home, especially if you are simply replacing one outlet with a newer one that has additional features like a USB port.  While it can be fairly simple, there is a chance that you will ground the wires the wrong way and that is a disaster waiting to happen. 

  • Adding Outdoor Lighting

We all know how important outdoor lighting is, but that doesn’t mean that you should attempt adding it all on your own.  It is imperative that you call an electrician, because they can make sure the wires are grounded for the outdoors.  Failure to do this can result in major issues, especially when it comes to water. 

  • Replacing Light Fixtures

Most of the time, replacing a light fixture can be fairly straightforward, but there are times when it is not as easy as it appears.  The amps needed for the new fixture, or the wattage, may be different than the old light fixture and that can cause a host of problems when you are trying to hook things back up. 

These are four projects a Miami electrician handles and that you should always call an electrician for, because not doing so can cause too many safety issues to count!  If you are ready to tackle some electrical projects mentioned above, or any others, give us a call today.  And, if you are unsure of whether or not you can do a different type of electrical project on your own, call and ask away.  Miami Electric Company will let you know if you can do it safely, or if it is better to have a professional work on it for you. 

Miami Electric Company is based out of Miami, FL and provides Miami electrician services throughout the city of Miami, FL.

3 Smart Home Features A Miami Electrician Installs

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There are so many different smart home features available today, and while you can easily set some of them up on your own, others will require you hiring an electrician.  While you may think that it is not worth the hassle of hiring a professional just to make your home smart, remember that these smart home features will make your house safer, while saving you a bunch of time too. 

 3 Smart Home Features A Miami Electrician Installs

  1. Smart Thermostat

There are a couple different smart thermostats on the market, and they are all designed to help you save money on your heating and cooling bill.  These thermostats will know when you are away from home, so they can adjust the temperature inside accordingly. 

  • Doorbells

There are many different doorbells out on the market, and you can choose from a wired option or a battery-operated one.  We recommend the wired option, because then you never need to worry about the battery dying when you need it the most.  Your doorbell will not only alert you to when someone is pushing the button, but also when they are simply walking on your property. 

  • Security Lights and Cameras

There are quite a few options of security lights that have cameras built into them.  Again, you can choose wired or battery-operated for this smart home item.  We love the wired ones, because the batteries can die quickly if the motion light goes on quite often. 

These are three of the many smart home features you may need an electrician for.  However, one of the main reasons you will call an electrician is for upgrading your electrical panel.  After all, with all this new technology, you will be using more electricity than ever before!

If you do not upgrade your electric panel, you may find that your lights flicker and your circuits trip often.  Therefore, if you are seriously thinking about upgrading to many different smart home features, you should call an electrician immediately.  They can give you exactly what you need to keep your home hub going. Also, those new appliances, small appliances, and even those lightbulbs that also act like a speaker. 

We have upgraded many electrical panels for smart home features and installed the three items listed above.  Therefore, we can get things up and running for you in no time at all!

Miami Electric Company is based out of Miami, FL and provides Miami electrician services throughout the city of Miami, FL.

Repair or Replace Your Electrical Panel in Miami?

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Your electrical panel is not something you want to mess with, because it is one of the leading causes of fires and other property damage.  Therefore, we do not recommend attempting to fix any part of your electrical panel on your own.  With that being said, you should at least know when you may need to have your electrical panel in Miami repaired or replaced. 

4 Things to Keep in Mind when There’s a Chance You Might Need to Repair or Replace Your Electrical Panel in Miami

  1. Flickering Lights

Do your lights flicker on occasion or do they get really dim before brightening back up?  If this is happening in your home, you probably need to have your electrical panel looked at.  Sometimes this can be fixed with minimal repairs, but more often than not a replacement is in order. 

  • Tripping Circuit Breakers

If your circuit breakers keep tripping, it means that your electrical panel does not have the capacity for the number of items you have plugged into that one spot.  An upgrade of your electrical panel will solve this problem for the future. 

  • Malfunctioning Circuit Breakers

If one of your circuit breakers should have tripped, or switched off, and didn’t, then it could be malfunctioning.  This can be very dangerous, because it can start a fire or other serious issue. 

  • Your Electrical Panel Feels Warm

Your electrical panel should never feel warm or even smell hot, so if it does at any time, you must call an electrician immediately.  Any time your electrical panel feels warm means that a fire could start in an instant.  It is best to have someone come out right away, so you and your family are safe.  These are four things to keep in mind when there is a chance your electrical panel needs to be repaired or replaced in Miami.  While some of these issues are minor, a couple are major and can have devastating results if you leave them alone.  If you have any concerns about your electrical panel, or simply want to have it looked at to ensure it is okay for your needs, just give us a call.  We are more than happy to inspect your electrical panel and make recommendations according to what we discover.  Hopefully, we won’t find anything, but if we do, we can fix it immediately, so you and your loved ones are safe inside your own home.

6 Miami Electrical Company Safety Tips You Must Know

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Electricity may seem harmless, but it is actually quite harmful if you are not careful when using it.  While you are probably already aware that you need to stay away from downed electrical wires, there are a few other safety issues you might not be aware of. 

6 Miami Electrical Company Safety Tips You Must Know

  1. Always Have an Annual Safety Inspection

You may think that annual safety inspections are not worth the money they cost, but in reality, they are very important and worth every penny.  A simple inspection will alert you to electrical issues before they become major. 

  • Know How Your Electrical Panel Works

Everyone should know how to turn the breakers on and off in their electrical panel and it is much easier nowadays than it was decades ago.  If your breakers keep getting tripped, then it is time to call a professional to see what the problem is. 

  • Check Your Outlets

Your electrical outlets should never feel warm, so if they do, you may have some faulty wiring or an electrical overload. 

  • Keep an Eye on Your Lights

If your lights keep getting dim and then brightening back up, or they flicker constantly, it may be time to repair your electrical panel.  While a simple repair might help, it may also end up being time to replace your entire electrical panel. 

  • Limit Extension Cord Usage

Extension cords can be helpful on occasion, but you do not want to use them all the time.  It is difficult for a circuit to determine when to shut off, because it won’t always know when it is overloaded. 

  • Always Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby

Electrical fires can be put out by fire extinguishers, but you must have one nearby if you want to catch the fire in time.  We recommend keeping at least one fire extinguisher on each floor of your home and maybe more if you have a larger home.  Everyone in your home should know how to use the fire extinguisher, but it goes without saying that if the fire is really bad, or you are unsure of what to do, that you simply get out instead and call the fire department.  These are six electrical safety tips that everyone should know in Miami.  Hopefully you were aware of them, but if you weren’t, you can now consider yourself more aware when it comes to the subject of electricity and safety.  If you have any other electrical safety concerns, please give us a call, so we can help you out.

Amps vs Watts vs Volts FYI Electric Company in Miami

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So you want to learn about current? Awesome. There are some basics you should know.

So really, what is the difference between amps, volts and watts? Well, quite a bit actually.

There are some fairly complicated answers to this question but we are going to try answer this question the best we can.

Let’s talk about it in terms of water to make it easier…

If we think of electricity as water flowing through a pipe it can help us understand amps, volts and watts.

Amps would be the volume of water flowing through the pipe. The water pressure would be the voltage.

Watts would be the power (volts x amps) the water could provide (think back to the old days when water was used to power mills).

Now here is the exact definition for each one…

Amps vs Watts vs Volts FYI Electric Company in Miami

Amp is an ampere is the unit for measuring electricity. The accepted standard unit used for measuring how fast an electric current flows is an example of an ampere.

Watt is the basic unit of electric, mechanical, or thermal power in the SI and MKS systems, equal to one joule per second or 10 ergs per second (of a horsepower): for electric power it is equal to one volt-ampere.

Volt is the basic unit of electromotive force in the SI and MKS systems, equal to the electromotive force, or difference in potential, that causes a current of one ampere to flow through a conductor having a resistance of one ohm.

Electricity is the flow of electrons through a conductor like a wire. The rate at which electricity flows is measured as an electric current. The electric current is measured in amps.

So, What makes the current flow? A battery is the source that makes the current flow. This is called voltage.

The watt is a measure of how much power is released each second.

Now, do you understanding of the difference between amps, volts and watts? We hope you do.

If you would like to learn more, let us know.  We would love to help you. We are your one stop electric company in Miami.

Miami Electric Company is located in Miami, FL We specialize in general electricians in Miami.

Grounded vs. Grounding Wire Electric Company in Miami FYI

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Have you ever wondered what the difference between grounded and grounding wire when it comes to electrical wiring?

As your expert electric company in Miami, we are going to tell you.

Believe it or not, the terms grounded and grounding are very similar, but their meanings are quite different.

Let us explain and then you will understand.

Grounded vs. Grounding Wire Electric Company in Miami FYI

First off, in any electrical circuit, there are two wires needed to complete any circuit. One is called the “hot wire” and the other is called “neutral” or “grounded”.  In some cases,  the neutral wire is referred to as a grounded wire.

To be honest, the correct term for this to be referred to is a “grounded neutral conductor,” but most times referred to as “the neutral” or the more popular term “the ground wire”.

Since the neutral or grounded wire is a mandatory part of the electrical path, grounded wires carry electrical current under normal operating conditions.

A grounded wire is required by the National Electrical Code to be white or gray in color on the customer side of the meter.

However, grounded wires on the utility side of the system do not generally have insulation.

Easy? Let’s learn more.

A “grounding” wire on the other hand is a safety wire that has intentionally been connected to earth. This is simple to figure out, because the grounding wire does not carry electricity under normal circuit operations.

It’s purpose is to carry electrical current only under short circuit or other conditions that would be potentially dangerous. For example, lighting storms in Miami.

Grounding wires serve as an alternate path for the current to flow back to the source, rather than go through anyone touching a dangerous appliance or electrical box. That  is because this can cause serious injury if electricity flows through your body.

Now because of that, this is where people get confused. Grounding wires are commonly referred to as a ground wire even though it is more correctly called a “grounding” wire.  

Loosely, some people will refer to this wire as the “case ground” since this wire is typically connected to the cases or outer parts of electrical boxes and appliances and tools.

The grounding wire is required by the National Electrical Code to be a bare wire, or if insulated, a green or green with yellow colored insulation.

See? Now hard. Good info, right? If you would like to learn more about electric wiring, read our blogs. If you need an electrician in Miami, just contact us.

Let us know.

Miami Electric Company is located in Miami, FL. We specialize in electricity and we are  your expert electric company in Miami. We are your go to for all of your general electrician in Miami needs.

LED Motion Sensor Floodlight In Miami FYI

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Are you looking for an LED motion sensor floodlight for your commercial or residential property in Miami? Great! We are here to help you.

There are several different types of LED lights available on the market with a range of features.

One of the most widely used types that are widely used in both commercial and residential settings are LED motion sensor flood lights often referred to as LED Security wall lights.  

Now that you know that, there are multiple options and choices of these lights. So let’s get to it..

What are LED Motion Sensor Flood Lights in Miami?

Good question. LED motion sensor floodlights, are lights that detect motion then turn on for a set period of time.

When an LED motion sensor light detects motion, it automatically switches on. After there is no motion for a particular period of time, it turns off or dims by itself.   Some people will call these security floodlights, because the motion is known to scare off potential burglars or thieves.

What else? The term flood used in the LED motion sensor floodlights indicates the area that will be ”flooded” with the light.

Basically, these lights use a wide beam angle for covering a larger area. This is good, because it will cover more than what is expected.

Why LED Motion Sensor Flood Lights in Miami Important?

There are numerous reasons why you need to rely on these extremely functional lighting products. Have a look at some of them:

Safety

The basic reason why these lights are installed is safety. This can prove to be helpful in preventing the cases of burglary and theft.

Coverage – An LED motion sensor floodlight can cover a wide area due to the wide beam angle they have. The greater area is covered by them, the more protection and safety they provide.

Long Life

As compared to other lighting products available on the market, LED motion sensor floodlights tend to have a longer lifespan.

Low Maintenance

LED lighting products are known as low maintenance lights as, unlike other types of lights, they do not require routine upkeep such as replacement bulbs or ballasts.

Brighter

These lights tend to produce a brighter light as compared to other lighting products type. This makes them perfect for both outdoor and indoor use.

No Mercury

Most of the lighting products available i.e. high-intensity discharge (HID) bulbs, fluorescent bulbs etc. have mercury in them.

It is a toxic substance that is dangerous towards humans and animals. LED motion sensor floodlights do not contain even the tiniest amount of mercury. Hence, they are safe to people and the environment.

No UV

LED motion sensor floodlights do not emit ultraviolet radiations that can prove to be quite harmful. This particular feature of these lights also makes them suitable to be installed in different settings. Now that you are in the know about LED Motion Sensor Floodlights in Miami, let us help you install them. Just send us a message and connect with us.

Miami Electric Company is based out of Miami, FL and specializes in LED motion sensor floodlight installation in Miami.

4 Reasons to Upgrade Your Electrical System in Miami

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4 Reasons to Upgrade Your Electrical System when Renovating Your Home in Miami

If your home is older, or you are always searching for an empty outlet, you really must consider upgrading your electrical.  While you can do this at any time, it is best to complete it when you are already working on a home renovation.  There are many reasons for this, but we are listing the best ones so you can see why we recommend it at this time. 

4 Reasons to Upgrade Your Electrical System when Renovating Your Home in Miami

  1. Keep Your Home Safe

As with everything else over the years, our need for electricity has increased dramatically.  New appliances, extra tablets, and multiple smartphones require additional outlets, while new lighting may require more switches.  If you do not upgrade your electrical as you are adding these things, then you may find yourself living in a home that is not as safe as it could be.  Electrical fires can start when an electrical panel becomes overloaded and that can cause major issues that will cost more than a simple upgrade. 

  • Saves Time

As you are having your renovation completed, you are going to have wires exposed and your entire home is going to be dusty as well.  You will save a lot of time if you have an electrician come in to replace the wires when the old ones are already exposed.  Plus, instead of cleaning up two messes, you will only need to deal with one. 

  • Save Money

You are going to be spending plenty of money on your house renovation and that might be why you are slightly resistant when it comes to upgrading your electrical.  However, if you are already moving walls and opening things up, there is no point in paying someone else to open them up again when you are finally ready for an upgrade.  Save some cash by tackling both these jobs at once!

  • Meet Current Building Codes

There is an excellent chance that your current electrical panel is not meeting the building codes and that can cause a problem when you go to sell in the future.  Instead of waiting for problems to surface later, when you are ready to move on, nip them in the bud now and upgrade your electrical so you know it is up to code. 

These are four of the best reasons to upgrade your electrical when you are renovating your home in Miami.  We can help you determine if your electrical needs to be upgraded or if it is ready to tackle the extra energy you and your family require. 

3 Reasons to Replace those Two-Prong Outlets in Miami

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Do You Still Have Two-Prong Outlets in Miami?  3 Reasons to Replace them Now!

When homes were constructed back in the 1920s, contractors only had two-prong outlets available to them.  There was nothing wrong with those outlets at the time, because we weren’t as dependent on electricity as we are now. 

However, fast forward a century and we rely on electricity to charge too many devices to count.  While you may not think you need too many three-prong outlets in your home, there are a couple reasons why you should replace those old two-prong outlets immediately. 

3 Reasons to Replace those Two-Prong Outlets in Miami Now

  1. Two-Prong Outlets are Not Grounded

Since a two-prong outlet is not grounded, you are going to be risking electrocution and even power surges if you keep them around.  The ground wire in the newer outlets prevent surges from occurring and keep you and your home safe, because it will trip the circuit breaker or blow the fuse before the surge can do any damage. 

  • Two-Prong Outlets are Not Up to Code

Did you know that two-prong outlets are not up to code?  According to the newest building codes, all new construction must have grounded outlets installed.  The code has even been recently updated to include the fact that the grounded outlets also must be GFCI if they are near water.  The GFCI will prevent electrical shock if water is anywhere near when a circuit is shorted. 

  • Two-Prong Outlets Do Not Meet the Electrical Needs of a Home

Many homes with two-prong outlets simply do not have the requirements that are needed for the electricity you use on a daily basis.  While those outlets will still allow you to plug something in, the massive amount of electricity running through will heat up the wires.  Those hot wires can cause a fire if you are not careful. 

It is not too difficult to replace two-prong outlets in your home.  Your easiest option is to simply replace the outlets with a three-prong outlet.  However, that will not solve all your safety concerns.  If you truly want your electrical needs met with safety in mind, you must hire an electrician and have them rewire your outlets and upgrade your electrical panel.  This is the only way you are ensured you can plug everything in your home in and have no problems at all. 

If you are finally ready to get rid of those two-prong outlets for good, give us a call and we will help you determine exactly what you need to keep your home safe and providing energy long into the future. 

Installing a Smart Thermostat in Miami

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So you want to make your home more modern. There are so many ways to go about it, but you’re once of the best ways would be to install a smart thermostat.

Before we talk about how to install a smart thermostat in Miami, let’s learn about what it can and cannot do. So, let’s get into it.

Are you ready? Here we go…

What is a smart thermostat? 

A smart thermostat is a Wi-Fi enabled device that automatically adjusts heating and cooling temperature settings in your home for optimal performance.

Smart thermostats that earn the ENERGY STAR label have been independently certified, based on actual field data, to deliver energy savings. Isn’t that wonderful?

Most smart thermostat features include the following features…

Convenience

  • When you install a smart thermostat in Miami, it features learn your temperature preferences and establish a schedule that automatically adjusts to energy-saving temperatures when you are asleep or away.
  • Geofencing allows your smart thermostat to know when you’re on the way home and automatically adjusts your home’s temperature to your liking.

Control

  • Wi-Fi enabled thermostats allow you to control your home’s heating and cooling remotely through your smartphone. Super high-tech, right? It is so cool!
  • ENERGY STAR certified smart thermostats quickly enter a low-power standby mode when inactive.

Insight

  • Smart thermostats provide equipment use and temperature data you can track and manage.
  • Periodic software updates ensure your smart thermostat is using the latest algorithms and energy-saving features available.

More Benefits when you install a Smart Thermostat in Miami

There are a lot more benefits, than what a smart thermostat features. ENERGY STAR certified smart thermostats are also designed to be compatible with the programs that some local utilities offer, providing home owners in their service territory with incentives to help them manage reliability.

For the average American household, almost half the annual energy bill goes to heating and cooling – more than $900 a year. Being smart about how you control your temperature settings will help you save money and stay comfortable in your home.

Want to know more? Great. Let us know. We would love to help you!

Miami Electrician Co is based out of Miami, FL and specializes in installing smart thermostats in Miami and other cities throughout Miami Dade county.