Whole House Surge Protection Type 2: Panel Based Surge Protector

November 13, 2021 by Opal Isaac Posted in Electrician Talk

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Whole House Surge Protection Type 2: Panel Based Surge Protector

Three years ago we blogged about the type 1 SPD (surge protector device) called a meter base surge protector. Today we are going to talk about the whole house surge protection type 2 which is called a panel based surge protector. It is important for your home to have at least one type of whole home surge protection. It is also now required by the 2020 NEC (National Electrical Code) that all residential service upgrades, replacements, and new service installations (new construction of homes) have type 1 or type 2 surge protection installed. With that said, let’s get right into what whole house surge protection type 2 is, why it’s important for your home to have this surge protector installed, and who to call to get one installed.

What Is Whole House Surge Protection Type 2?

Whole house surge protection type 2 refers to a SPD that mounts right next to your main electrical panel. Type 2 devices that are installed on your main electrical panel help with absorbing some of the surge from the outside that may leak in from a type 1 SPD (meter based). To recap from one of one of our previous blogs about electrical surges, a surge is an increase of electrical voltage. Extra voltage can damage the wiring that is connected to our appliances inside of your home, and can even fry the appliance itself.

Why Do I Need A Panel Based Surge Protector?

Panel based surge protectors protect the breakers/circuits in your main electrical panel from lightning surges, utility line surges, etc. These circuits as you know are connected to certain appliances, and these appliances/devices can cycle on and off. 80% of surges occur within the home. A panel based surge protector serves as an extra line of protection next to the meter based surge protectors, protecting everything in your home from damage.

KB Electric LLC For Whole House Surge Protector Installation

It’s very important to have a form of defense for your electronics, appliances, devices, etc. in your home. It costs a lot of money to replace these household items. There is an easy solution for surge protection for your home appliances and devices, and it starts with a professional for a type 1 or type 2 surge protector installation. Whether you are in need of type 1 surge protection or type 2 surge protection installation, the master electricians at KB Electric LLC can hook you up! Call us today for exceptional service, quality workmanship, and friendly faces! (267) 467-3178

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4-Prong OutletsAbout KB Electric LLCAttic FansBallast ReplacementBathroom LightingCable Outlet InstallationCarbon Monoxide DetectorsCeiling Fan InstallationChandelier InstallationChristmas Light SafetyCircuit BreakersCommercial Electrical Safety InspectionsCommercial ElectricianCommercial LightingCurrent Events with ElectricityCurrent Events: EnergyDeck LightingDeck Receptacles/OutletsDedicated CircuitsDeicing CablesDimmer SwitchesDisposing Light BulbsDoorbellsDryer Booster FansElectricity and Energy InnovationsElectric Baseboard Heater InstallationElectric Car Charging InstallationElectric Radiant Floor HeatingElectrical InformationElectrical InnovationsElectrical Panel UpgradeElectrical Remodeling ServicesElectrical Safety InspectionsElectrician vs. Electrical InspectorElectricity BillElectromagnetic FieldsEmergency DisconnectsEmergency Lighting and Exit Sign LightingEnergy Saving TipsEthernet Wall JacksEV Charging SafetyExhaust FansFestoon LightingGarage WiringGeneratorsGFCIsHigh Bay LightingHire a Licensed ElectricianHistory of Ceiling FansHistory of the Dimmer SwitchHistory of Electric CarsHome Electric Car Charging InstallationHot Tub WiringHouse RewireIn The NewsIntercom SystemsKitchen LightingKnob & Tube WiringLED Ballast BypassLED Christmas LightsLED Retrofit LightingLEDsLi-Fi TechnologyLight Color TemperatureLightingLightning FactsLow Voltage Landscape LightingMotion SensorsMoonlightingOutlet SafetyOutdoor Ceiling FansOutdoor Home Security Lighting TipsOutdoor Lamp PostsOutdoor LightingOutdoor Outlet CoversOutdoor Receptacles/OutletsOutdoor Shed WiringParking Lot LightingPendant LightingPhotocell SensorsPool WiringPower and Communication PolesProperty Management ElectricianRange HoodsRecessed LightsRecessed OutletsRenewable EnergyRomex WiringRV Home Electrical HookupSafety & PreventionShed WiringSingle Phase to Three PhaseSmall BusinessesSmart Light SwitchesSmart OutletsSmart ThermostatsSmoke DetectorsSolar Powered ElectricitySpace HeatersStorefront LightingSurge ProtectionSwimming Pool Electrical SafetySwimming Pool Area LightingSwimming Pool LightingThanksgiving FunTools of the TradeTrack Lighting InstallationTransformersTunable White LEDsTV Wall Mount InstallationTwist Lock ReceptaclesUnder Cabinet LightingUSB OutletsVideo Doorbells

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Opal Isaac

countryelectric.biz

Tools of the Trade: Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp For The KB Electric Men

November 13, 2021 by Opal Isaac Posted in Electrician News

Tools of the Trade: Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp For The KB Electric Men

This week, I’ve decided to ask the technicians at KB Electric LLC what brand of tools they use on the job and why. And hey, if the company we use reaches out to us and gives us some free products for giving them a shout-out, we are all for it!

But the main reason I’m blogging about them is to keep our customers and potential customers informed about the brand we trust most to get our jobs done right the first time. To my surprise, all of our guys use the Milwaukee brand. So I also decided to do a little bit of research about the Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation to get to know the company behind the brand we use in the field. Let’s get right to it!

bout Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp.

First and foremost, the Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp. is an American-based company since 1924. It all started at the close of World War I when Henry Ford needed a fabricator to create a light-weight power drill. He went to a man by the name of A.H. Petersen who invented the Hole-Shooter. It was the first drill that was light enough to use with one hand, weighing in at only 5 pounds. After a tragic fire destroyed Petersen’s facility, his business partner Albert F. Siebert re-opened it as Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp. after buying the remaining assets at auction. During Milwaukee’s beginning years, they applied Navy standards to all of their portable tools and began manufacturing tools for military and Navy personnel. Milwaukee began producing tools for World War II as well when demand was high.

By 1951, Milwaukee introduced their infamous Sawzall® Reciprocating Saw. This was the first portable hacksaw to have a reciprocating mechanism. Since the unveiling of the Sawzall®, they’ve been revolutionizing the tool industry. In 2008, Milwaukee created Ice Hardened™ technology, a cryogenic hardening process enabling their accessories to last up to 50% longer than the competitors.

Milwaukee has many facilities throughout Wisconsin and Mississippi that manufacture their corded SawZall and blades, LED lights, drills, and a slew of other things

The tool industry as a whole likes to lean more towards cheaper labor out of America, as with many other industries. That said, most of Milwaukee’s other tools like their cordless power drills and saws are not made here in the US.

That being said, what I’ve read so far is that Milwaukee is also planning to expand into Cookeville, TN, as well as opening a new facility in West Bend, WI. The West Bend location will be for tools for electricians, plumbing and mechanical trades, and utility linemen. In 2020 alone, they’ve invested over $100 million and created 350 new jobs right here in the US! Hopefully we will see more of this in the years to come.

M12 and M18 Power Tools

Milwaukee is known for their M12 and M18 cordless power tools. In our field of work, the techs at KB use both. Our big drills and saw/cutting tools are the M18s. The M12s work well for our hand drills.

The main difference between the M12 and M18 tools: power. M12 power tools use 12v, and the M18 use 18v. The M12 power tools are lighter and more portable. M18s are well known for their higher operating power, long run time, and durability. There are over 100 tools in the M12 system, and over 200 tools in the M18 system.

KB Electric LLC’s Favorite Milwaukee Tool

All of our technicians say the best Milwaukee tool on the job is the M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool pictured below. Our newest man on our team, Mason Kent says it’s because it’s a beast. Our technician Darren says you can cut literally everything with it: cut outs for boxes, making cuts to install recessed lights, etc.

The “Ozzy” as the guys call it, uses an M18 REDLITHIUM battery with a 40% more run time. Milwaukee claims this tool is 50% faster and does twice as many cuts per charge than the competitors. It’s got a built-in LED light, and it’s motor delivers 11,000 OPM to 18,000 OPM. This tool can cut through different types of material from metal to large cuts of hardwoods. It also comes equipped with a 12-setting dial for varying speeds dependent on your specific job.

M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool

Why The Men At KB Electric LLC Prefer Milwaukee Over The Other Guys

KB Electric LLC has been in business since 2004. The technicians in the field didn’t always use the Milwaukee brand though. In fact, our technician/installer, Brian Hughes informed me that all of our guys have been using Milwaukee since probably around 2017. Before then, the guys used a variety of brands, mainly Craftsman, Dewalt, and Bosch. When I asked Brian why he preferred Milwaukee, he said:

“Oh man, we started with Craftsman & Dewalt. Batteries died too quick and would literally fall out over time. Bosch impact drill wasn’t too bad. Batteries last longer, drills are more powerful (Milwaukee). And they replace products no questions asked. They are a Godsend!”

Sources:

Are Milwaukee Tools Made in the USA?

https://www.milwaukeetool.com/Company/Milwaukee-Story

https://www.cableorganizer.com/learning-center/articles/history-of-milwaukee-tools.php

https://www.acmetools.com/blog/milwaukee-m12-and-m18-battery-buying-guide/

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Opal Isaac

countryelectric.biz

Dryer Booster Fan: What Is It And How Does It Work?

November 12, 2021 by Opal Isaac Posted in Electrician Services

Dryer Booster Fan: What Is It And How Does It Work?

We recently got a call from a customer this week who was in need of a dryer booster fan replacement. We realized we haven’t done a blog about one of these bad boys yet, so of course it was a no-brainer that we write one today! Let’s get right into what a dryer vent booster fan is, how it works, why you may need one, and who to call for installation.

What Is A Dryer Booster Fan?

A dryer vent booster fan is a fan that connects to your dryer duct to help increase airflow. The boost in airflow with a fan like this allows for the successful removal of built-up dryer lint in your ductwork, as well as efficient drying time of your clothing.

How Do Dryer Booster Fans Work?

Dryer booster fans utilize backward inclined blades to effectively pull air out of the duct while allowing for other debris like dryer lint to pass through.

Do I Need A Dryer Vent Fan?

You may need a booster fan for your dryer if you are experiencing long drying times, if your duct run for your dryer is over 25 feet long, or if your duct run for your dryer has multiple bends. If you are noticing that you need continual duct cleanouts from dryer lint and debris, you may also benefit from a booster fan for your dryer.

Benefits of Dryer Booster Fans

Extended ventilation.Reduced drying time for your clothing.Reduced energy consumption since your dryer won’t be running as long. (50% or more!)Reduce fire hazard of lint build-up.You won’t need continuous duct cleanouts from a professional. (saves you cash!)

Who Can Install My Dryer Booster Fan?

Hire a professional who is licensed and insured to install your new dryer vent fan. The master electricians at KB Electric LLC can help install any and all types of booster fans for any ductwork. We are licensed and insured, versed in the NEC (National Electric Code), and our techs have the proper tools and equipment for safe installation. Call us today! (267)-467-3178.

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Opal Isaac

countryelectric.biz

Hardwired vs Plug-In EV Charging Installation: Which Is Better?

November 12, 2021 by Opal Isaac Posted in Electrician Services

Hardwired vs Plug-In EV Charging Installation: Which Is Better?

If you are on the market for a new electric vehicle (EV), you’re probably doing a lot of research on the best options for charging one. KB Electric LLC has been doing EV charger installations for quite some time, and the calls keep coming in to get them done. Many EV owners purchase a level 2 charger and have one of our master electricians install it for them. There are two options when installing your level 2 EV charger: a hardwired vs plug-in EV charging installation. So, which is better? Let’s take a look at what a level 2 EV charger is, the two options for installing one, and which option KB Electric LLC recommends for installation.

Before we dabble with the details, no matter the hardwired type or plug-in, EV chargers should be installed by a professional. KB Electric LLCalways recommends that a licensed and insured electrician installs your EV home charger, especially if it is hardwired.

Hardwired EV Charging Installation – Tesla Charger

What Is a Level 2 EV Charger?

A Level 2 EV Charger utilizes a 240v outlet, also known as a NEMA 50r receptacle (when not hardwired). This outlet is the same as the one your clothing dryer uses (if you don’t have a hardwired dryer). Level 2 EV chargers can take up to 6.5 hours to fully charge the battery using a brand like the ClipperCreek LEVEL 2 HCS-40PR. For most brands of EVs, level 2 chargers are typically 3 to 5 times faster to fully charge the battery than a level 1 EV charger (utilizes a 120v outlet).

There are so many brands of level 2 EV chargers on the market. Most of these EV chargers can be installed inside or outside of your garage. Most of the level 2 EV chargers can also be hardwired instead of plugged in using the 240v outlet. What does hardwiring your EV charger entail? Let’s go over it.

Hardwired vs Plug-In EV Charging Installation

Hardwired

With a hardwired EV charging installation, an electrician installs a dedicated 60AMP line from your main electrical panel to the desired EV charger location. At KB Electric LLC, we install a fire-rated backboard, as well as the NEC code required sub-panel to terminate power to the unit if needed. For this installation, the EV charging unit does not utilize a 240v outlet since it is hardwired into your main panel.

Hardwired EV Charger Installation

Plug-In

With a plug-in EV charging installation, an electrician installs a 240v outlet also known as a NEMA 50r receptacle, at the desired EV charger location to plug into.

Plug-In EV Charger Installation – NEMA 50r (240v) Receptacle

Should I Get A Hardwired or Plug-In EV Charger Installation?

At all comes down to preference. Personally for the owner at KB Electric LLC, the hardwired option looks the cleanest. So you can say it all comes down to aesthetic appeal. Just take a look at the two pictures above in the hardwired section of this blog . The cord on the EV charger rolls up nicely, and you don’t have any wires hanging down. It also poses less of a trip hazard from the cord being left out. Either way, the hardwired or the plug-in EV charger install can be executed by the master electricians at KB Electric LLC. Call us today for your EV charging installation! (267) 467-3178

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Opal Isaac

countryelectric.biz

Bedside Bearer: First Ever Wall Mounted, Motion-Activated Night-light Cup Holder

November 12, 2021 by Opal Isaac Posted in Electrician Talk

Bedside Bearer: First Ever Wall Mounted, Motion-Activated Night-light Cup Holder

Meet the Bedside Bearer: the first ever wall mounted, motion-activated night-light cup holder equipped with a fiber optic LED light. This LED light wraps around the ring of the cup holder and is gentle on the eyes so as to not disturb your circadian rhythm. Fitting all types of drinkware, the Bedside Bearer is patent-pending, made in America, and installs to virtually all types of wall surfaces.

But why a wall mounted cup holder you may ask? Isn’t that what my nightstand is for? Let’s give you a little background of how the Bedside Bearer came to fruition, describe how it works, the goal of the product, and the vision of the company behind this patent-pending invention.

How The Bedside Bearer All Began

First of all, let’s explain why KB Electric LLC is blogging about the Bedside Bearer to begin with. Not only is it an electrical innovation that deals with LED fiber optics and is a first of its kind, but the owner of KB Electric LLC created it. That’s right! Owner and operator, Keith Busby of KB Electric LLC came up with this invention while laying in bed one night. If you know Keith like I do (because I’m his wife), you know that he constantly spills his glass of water onto his nightstand and floor in the middle of the night. He can’t see in the pitch black of the night, and constantly fumbles around looking for his cup of water to quench his dry mouth.

The dropped glasses of water was so bad that while moving our old furniture into our new home, Keith noticed mold on the back of his nightstand. This is no joke.

So, we laid there and after the thousandth time of spilling his water onto the floor, the lightbulb clicked on. “I need a cup holder with a light on it!”

After the idea came to him, Keith called up his buddy, Kevin and they decided to create the one-of-a-kind invention. After three years of development and research and three prototypes later, the Bedside Bearer is patent-pending and almost ready for production.

Why The Bedside Bearer?

Made in America!Declutters your nightstand, giving you more space for books, reading glasses, tissues, iPad, mouth guard, smart phone, alarm clock, etc. (LESS CHANCE FOR SPILLS!)Perfect for quenching the thirst in the morning and in the middle of the night.Your drink can hang on your wall in smaller spaces without a nightstand.The illumination from the Bedside Bearer won’t wake your spouse, and you won’t need to turn on any bedroom lights.Gentle LED fiber optic light won’t disrupt circadian rhythm. Versatile: The Bedside Bearer isn’t justfor bedrooms. It can accommodate any space with minimal furniture like your garage/shed, RV camper, small living room, etc.Perfect gift ideas for anyone!Fits a wide variety of drinkware.Sleek design complements any home decor.

How Does The Bedside Bearer Work?

Once you attach your Bedside Bearer to any flat wall surface, you are all set for the Bedside Bearer to hold any type of drinkware. This motion-activated LED fiber optic cup holder operates with 2 AAA batteries. Just wave your hand in the vicinity of the cup holder, and the gentle LED light turns on via a motion sensor. The LED fiber optic light featured on the ring has a soft glow and is gentle on the eyes. It will give enough light to see your cup without disturbing or waking up your partner.

Giving Back

The Bedside Bearer simplifies needing a drink at night, but there are many around the world who do not have access to any water at all, day or night. That is why 5% of the profits will go towards World Vision. This non-profit creates wells for people who need clean drinking water.

Where Can I Buy a Bedside Bearer?

The kickstarter page to help with funding for the production of the Bedside Bearer is coming soon! Check out the website for more info: bedsidebearer.com

Please send the company an email if you are interested in buying a Bedside Bearer and for up-to-date information about the process of its development. Email: [email protected]

We will update this section of the blog with the Bedside Beater kickstarter page when it goes live!

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Opal Isaac

countryelectric.biz

Private Utility Poles | What They Are, & Who To Call For Installation & Repair

November 12, 2021 by Opal Isaac Posted in Electrician Talk

Residential>Troubleshooting & Repair ServicesGFCI OutletsAFCI BreakersWhole House Surge ProtectionElectrical Safety InspectionsSmoke & CO DetectorsGenerator InstallationElectrical Panel UpgradesDedicated CircuitsIndoor LightingLandscape LightingFan InstallationPool & Hot Tub WiringEV Charger InstallationWhole House RewiringHome Theater InstallationCommercial>Troubleshooting & Repair ServicesDedicated Computer CircuitsElectrical Safety InspectionsSurge ProtectionGenerator InstallationElectrical Panel UpgradesBucket Truck ServicesEquipment HookupsIndoor & Outdoor LightingReviewsService Areas>Montgomery County, PABucks County, PAChester County, PADelaware County, PABerks County, PAPhiladelphia County, PAPhotosTeamBlogDealsCommunityAchievementsComicsCareersCompanies

Private Utility Poles: What They Are, And Who To Call For Installation And Repair

KB Electric LLC recently got a call from a man who needed help repairing a utility pole. Normally, our electricians wouldn’t even touch a job like this because the main utility poles seen on the side of the road are serviced, repaired, replaced, and installed by the utility company, like PECO or MET-ED. But private utility poles, like for this customer, are the homeowner’s responsibility for installation, repair, and replacement. Let’s take a look at this job that had the master electricians at KB Electric LLC repairing a down private power pole for this homeowner.

Leaning Private Utility Pole Needing Repair – KB Electric LLC

What Are Private Utility Poles?

A private utility pole, also known as a private power pole, is a pole located on a homeowner or business owner’s property. It is connected to the main utility pole owned by the utility company.

Why Would I Have A Private Power Pole On My Property?

The reason homeowners or business owners may have private utility poles on their property is because the main utility pole owned by the utility company cannot reach the house or business. The additional private utility pole on the property helps get power to the home or business if the lines won’t reach the service head on the house or business.

Private Utility Pole Repair – KB Electric LLC

Who Is Responsible For Repairing My Private Utility Pole?

Because the private utility pole is on the homeowner’s property, the homeowner is responsible for taking care of repairing or replacing the pole. Your utility company is NOT responsible for private utility poles, and will tell you that you need to hire someone to repair or replace it. The utility company in your area (PECO or MET-ED are the common companies in the Montgomery County or Berks County, PA area) are ONLY responsible for the utility lines and poles they own (which are the ones not on our property, and that are on the roadsides).

Who Can I Call To Repair My Private Utility Pole?

A homeowner or business owner can call a licensed and insured electrician, like the ones from KB Electric LLC to repair, replace, or install private utility poles. An electrician with the right equipment will be able to:

Repair/Replace a leaning/falling or damaged pole due to storm damage or unforeseen circumstance.Install a new private utility pole. Repair/Replace private utility pole.

Unsure About Your Circumstance?

It’s okay to be unsure of who to call for your particular circumstance in regards to your private power pole. You can call your main utility company before calling an electrician to be on the safe side. If you do need an electrician because of your private power pole, call KB Electric LLC today! (267) 467-3178

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4-Prong OutletsAbout KB Electric LLCAttic FansBallast ReplacementBathroom LightingBollard LightsCable Outlet InstallationCarbon Monoxide DetectorsCeiling Fan InstallationChandelier InstallationChristmas Light SafetyCircuit BreakersCommercial Electrical Safety InspectionsCommercial ElectricianCommercial LightingCurrent Events with ElectricityCurrent Events: EnergyDeck LightingDeck Receptacles/OutletsDedicated CircuitsDeicing CablesDimmer SwitchesDisposing Light BulbsDoorbellsDryer Booster FansElectricity and Energy InnovationsElectric Baseboard Heater InstallationElectric Car Charging InstallationElectric Radiant Floor HeatingElectrical InformationElectrical InnovationsElectrical Panel UpgradeElectrical Remodeling ServicesElectrical Safety InspectionsElectrician vs. Electrical InspectorElectricity BillElectromagnetic FieldsEmergency DisconnectsEmergency Lighting and Exit Sign LightingEnergy Saving TipsEthernet Wall JacksEV Charging SafetyExhaust FansFestoon LightingGarage WiringGeneratorsGFCIsHigh Bay LightingHire a Licensed ElectricianHistory of Ceiling FansHistory of the Dimmer SwitchHistory of Electric CarsHome Electric Car Charging InstallationHot Tub WiringHouse RewireIn The NewsIntercom SystemsKitchen LightingKnob & Tube WiringLED Ballast BypassLED Christmas LightsLED Retrofit LightingLEDsLi-Fi TechnologyLight Color TemperatureLightingLightning FactsLow Voltage Landscape LightingMotion SensorsMoonlightingOutlet SafetyOutdoor Ceiling FansOutdoor Home Security Lighting TipsOutdoor Lamp PostsOutdoor LightingOutdoor Outlet CoversOutdoor Receptacles/OutletsOutdoor Shed WiringParking Lot LightingPendant LightingPhotocell SensorsPool WiringPower and Communication PolesPrivate Utility PolesProperty Management ElectricianRange HoodsRecessed LightsRecessed OutletsRenewable EnergyRomex WiringRV Home Electrical HookupSafety & PreventionShed WiringSingle Phase to Three PhaseSmall BusinessesSmart Light SwitchesSmart OutletsSmart ThermostatsSmoke DetectorsSolar Powered ElectricitySpace HeatersStorefront LightingSurge ProtectionSwimming Pool Electrical SafetySwimming Pool Area LightingSwimming Pool LightingThanksgiving FunTools of the TradeTrack Lighting InstallationTransformersTunable White LEDsTV Wall Mount InstallationTwist Lock ReceptaclesUnder Cabinet LightingUSB OutletsVideo Doorbells

The post Private Utility Poles | What They Are, & Who To Call For Installation & Repair appeared first on KB Electric LLC.

Opal Isaac

countryelectric.biz

How Does A Transfer Switch Work For A Home Generator?

November 11, 2021 by Opal Isaac Posted in Electrician Talk

How Does A Transfer Switch Work For A Home Generator?

KB Electric LLC installs many portable generators and whole home generators for our customers. There are two options when powering up your generator from your main electrical panel: an interlock kit or a transfer switch. Today, our electrician Darren Souder will explain in a video how the transfer switch option works.

What Is A Generator Transfer Switch?

A generator transfer switch is a device that enables you to connect your generator to your home’s wiring, and is installed near your electrical panel into a dedicated outlet with just one cord. The device allows you to power your most needed circuits in the event of a power outage.

Examples of different things to power up with your transfer switch would be your heating system, water heater, refrigerator, a few important lights and outlets in different rooms, well pump, septic pump, etc. You can choose which circuits you would want in the device with the generator, but not all the circuits that are in your main electrical panel.

How Does A Transfer Switch Work?

Let’s have Darren explain to us how a transfer switch works for a home generator:

Hire KB Electric LLC For Your Generator Hookup

Our master electricians at KB Electric LLC can install any hookup for your home generator. Whether it’s a portable generator or a whole home generator, you can trust us to supply you with power! Whether it’s an interlock kit for your main electrical panel, or a transfer switch connected to your main electrical panel, we can help you get power to your home when you need it most.

KB Electric LLC is licensed and insured, and we serve all of Southeastern, PA counties including Montgomery County, Berks County, Bucks County, Chester County, and Delaware County, PA. Give us a ring! (267) 467-3178

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Opal Isaac

countryelectric.biz

LED Strobe Light Smoke Alarm Installation For Hearing Impaired: KB Electric LLC

November 11, 2021 by Opal Isaac Posted in Electrician Services

LED Strobe Light Smoke Alarm Installation For Hearing Impaired: KB Electric LLC

Many people don’t realize that there are different types of smoke alarms for the hearing impaired that can be installed. If you are in need of a LED strobe light smoke alarm installation, the electricians at KB Electric LLC can hook you up! We provide any and all smoke alarm installations for anyone residing in the Montgomery County, PA area, as well as Berks, Bucks, Chester, and Delaware, PA counties.

LED Strobe Light Smoke Alarm

What Is A LED Strobe Light Smoke Alarm?

A LED strobe light smoke alarm is a type of smoke detector for the hearing impaired. Just like a common smoke detector, the LED strobe light smoke detector can detect smoke, heat, and CO. The LED strobe light smoke alarm works by using a photoelectric sensor that alerts the homeowner of the danger, emitting a flashing light via a smart strobe. There are usually two types of different flashing patterns to distinguish between smoke and carbon monoxide.

A common brand for this would the First Alert Hardwired LED Strobe Light Smoke Alarm with 10-Year Sealed Battery – 7020BSL (just a smoke detector), and the First Alert Hardwired Smoke & CO Alarm with LED Strobe Light and 10-Year Sealed Battery – 7030BSL (smoke and CO combination detector).

Most LED strobe light smoke/CO alarms can be hardwired and interconnected.

What Is a LED Strobe Light Device?

There are also LED strobe light devices that aren’t smoke detectors, but are just devices that signal a light pattern. These devices interconnect with your existing smoke/CO alarms, but don’t necessarily “detect” the smoke, heat and CO. When your other regular smoke and CO detectors around your home sound, the device with the LED strobe light will go off with your other detectors, emitting a flashing light. A common brand for this would be the First Alert Hardwired Hearing Impaired LED Strobe Light – SLED177.

The LED strobe lights can be interconnected and hardwired with your existing smoke and CO detectors.

Hire KB Electric LLC For LED Strobe Light Smoke Alarm Installation

Need an electrician to help you install a LED strobe light smoke detector? One of our licensed and insured electricians at KB Electric LLC can perform any LED strobe light smoke alarm installation for you. Our electricians are versed in the NEC (National Electric Code) for compliance, and know the ins and outs of wiring your new smoke/CO detector. Whether you need a LED strobe light smoke alarm or a regular smoke alarm installed, call the team of highly skilled electricians to help you out. (267) 467-3178

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Opal Isaac

countryelectric.biz

2020 NEC Code Change: Surge Protection Now Required

November 10, 2021 by Opal Isaac Posted in Electrician News

2020 NEC Code Change: Surge Protection Now Required

The 2020 NEC (National Electric Code) has made surge protection required for service replacements and upgrades. With a new service, service upgrade, or service replacement, there must now be a type 1 or type 2 surge protector installed. What does this mean for you as a homeowner? Before we discuss this new 2020 NEC code change, let’s first explain what the NEC is, why it’s important for frequent changes, and why surge protection now required in the 2020 NEC is crucial for new service installations.

What is the NEC?

The NEC is the safety standard for electrical equipment and wiring installations for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. The purpose of the NEC is to protect people from electrical hazards, as well as to keep the property safe from things like electrical fires. The NEC is adopted by the NFPA (National Fire Protection Agency), and is revised every three years.

Why is the NEC revised every three years?

Due to the never-ending technological advancements we experience in our world, it’s important for the NEC to undergo reviews and revisions to keep everyone safe. Certain things may come up that weren’t previously thought of before, requiring the NFPA to improve and change the NEC for the utmost safety of people and their property.

2020 NEC Code Change: Surge Protection

What is Surge Protection?

We blogged awhile back about what whole house surge protection is, and you can revisit that blog here. To recap, this is protection for your devices, appliances, computers etc. throughout your entire home from surges (an increase of electrical voltage) that can occur outside the home from things like a lightning strike on a utility line, work being done on the utility line, a storm that destroys the power lines, falling trees, etc.

There are two types of surge protectors that keep your house safe from electrical surges. Type 1 refers to a meter base surge protector, and type 2 refers to a panel base surge protector. Either one is required for a new service replacement or upgrade as one of the 2020 NEC code changes.

Type 1 – Meter Base Surge Protector

We also blogged about type 1 surge protectors, also known as meter base surge protectors. Take a look here. To recap, whole house surge protection type 1 refers to a SPD (surge protective device) that mounts onto the outside meter of your home. This is the first line of defense against surges. It’s a meter-based surge protector that reduces extra voltage (surge) from the power grid, before it reaches your main electrical panel.

Surge Protection: Type 1 Meter Base Surge Protector

Type 2 – Panel Base Surge Protector

A panel base surge protector is a device that is installed on your main electrical panel. This type of device helps protect the surges that can occur within the home, like appliances cycling on and off. 80% of surges occur within the home, while the other 20% occur outside the home (type 1 – meter base device helps with these surges).

Surge Protection: Type 2 Panel Base Surge Protector

To get complete surge protection coverage, KB Electric LLC recommends getting both type 1 and type 2 installed for your home.

Surge Protection Now Required For Residential Service Upgrades and Replacements

For the new 2020 NEC code changes, it is required that all residential service upgrades, replacements, and new service installations (new construction of homes) have type 1 or type 2 surge protection installed.

Why Are SPDs (Surge Protective Devices) Required Under 2020 NEC Code?

The main reason for the 2020 NEC code change requiring surge protection for service upgrades and replacements is to protect your home’s appliances and devices. This means that the NEC goes beyond protecting people by also protecting your property. A blown TV, stereo system, computer, etc is very costly, even if it is covered through insurance. Someone is still paying for it!

This also protects the people as well. Here’s how:

If you have temporary power for your home (i.e., a generator), this causes power fluctuation. A home has AFCIs (arc fault circuit interupptors) and GFCIs (ground fault circuit interruptors) to protect people from shock, electrocution, and electrical fires. Homes also have smoke alarms. All three of these are the most commonly blown electronics due to their sensitivity of control boards. You would want these devices protected by a whole house surge protection device, like type 1 and type 2 SPDs to protect you from electrical fires and hazards.

What Does This Mean For Me As A Homeowner?

With a service that doesn’t need to be changed, you don’t have to do anything right now. If you need a service panel replacement or upgrade, then you may need to have a surge protector installed. But…

It all depends on what NEC code your state/municipality has adopted.Since the 2020 NEC JUST came out, it could take a few years or so for an area to use it. For example, according to the NFPA’s website, “As of July 1, 2020, the 2020 NEC is in effect in four states, the 2017 NEC is in effect in 31 states, the 2014 NEC is in effect in 9 states and the 2008 NEC is in effect in three states.”

So, as of now, the state of PA uses the 2014 NEC for home and commercial electrical installations. BUT, this will obviously change in the future, and if you were to sell your home or buy another home, its best to stay up to the current code for safety and compliance.

At KB Electric LLC, our team of qualified electricians would be happy to install surge protection for your home. Don’t let a power surge fry your appliances and devices! Call our family-owned and manager-operated company today! We are your number one electrician serving all of Montgomery County, PA and Southeastern, PA.

Sources:

https://www.nfpa.org/NEC/NEC-adoption-and-use/NEC-adoption-maps

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Early and Amped

November 10, 2021 by Opal Isaac Posted in Electrician Talk

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Silly Sparks and Sockets Issue #2 (Early and Amped)

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