Electrical: Benefits of Whole-House Surge Protection

April 19, 2024

Electrical surges are an inevitable part of homeownership regardless of where you live in the Fox Valley area, but you can have one of the electricians from Black-Haak install whole-home protection. Incidents ranging from storms to random fluctuations in the municipal electrical system can overload and damage appliances and wiring. However, a whole-home system is a robust solution that reduces numerous risks. If you’re wondering whether the investment is necessary, here are twelve reasons to consider adding whole-house surge protection. 1. Reducing Fire Risks People sometimes favor using surge protector strips that plug into their homes’

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10 Things You Can Control With Home Automation

March 30, 2024

Technology for automating homes has advanced in recent times. It gives homeowners more control over their living spaces than ever before. You can monitor and manage your home’s security, entertainment, energy use, and more from your phone or via voice commands. If you want to upgrade your home with the newest automation gadgets and devices, here are 10 things you can control. 1. Lights and Motion Sensors One popular home automation is controlling lights. You can have motion sensors or occupancy detectors that turn lights on automatically when you walk into a room and off when

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4 Things to Consider When Installing an EV Charger

February 23, 2024

Having an EV charging station at your home is extremely convenient and will save you lots of money compared to having to constantly use public charging stations. Real estate statistics also show that homes with a Level 2 EV charging station tend to sell for more money than similar homes in the same area without one. If you’re looking to install an EV charging station at your home, here are some of the most important things you should consider beforehand. 1. Electric Code Requirements and Warranty Considerations If you just want to use Level 1

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Reasons You Need an Electrician To Install a Ceiling Fan

January 20, 2024

There was a time when ceiling fans were considered a luxury, but today, they are a staple in most modern homes, following a standard installation process. If you have a home that has enough space to install them, we strongly recommend installing ceiling fans. This is because they are not only attractive in your home but also help you save energy and increase your general comfort. A professional electrician must handle this project, even when you are tempted to do it yourself. Imagine the satisfaction and comfort of knowing that the ceiling fan was installed by a

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Understanding How the Winter Season Can Affect Your Household’s Electrical System

December 4, 2023

The winter season brings holidays, festivities, unique outdoor activities, and picturesque scenery. However, wintertime can also bring cold temperatures and precipitation that can have a negative impact on your home’s electrical system. For example, winter storms can cause power outages, and increased use of appliances can result in tripping breakers. Even the type of lighting and decor used during the winter can raise the risk of electrical fires. Since electrical systems play an integral role in the daily operation of your home, it is important to understand seasonal challenges and take precautionary steps to handle dangers or risks. A look

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Will It Damage My Electric Vehicle If I Charge It Nightly?

November 1, 2023

Installing an electric vehicle (EV) charger in your Fox Valley, WI home is guaranteed to make life a bit easier. At-home charging stations eliminate the need to wait in long lines for the chance to power up. If used correctly, an at-home charger can even extend your auto’s battery life, promote enhanced battery safety, and save you money. But what if you use it nightly or overnight? Read on to find out how lengthy plug-ins and overcharging can impact your EV battery’s health. Installing and Using an at-Home Charging Station According to a U.S. charging study

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Help! Why Can’t I Reset My GFCI?

October 24, 2023

Added to the National Electric Code (NEC) in 1971, GFCI outlets have helped prevent countless injuries since their inception. Typically found in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor areas, these fast-acting circuit breakers terminate electric power during ground fault events in less than a second. Faulty wiring, high levels of moisture, and build-ups of dust and other debris are just a few of the many triggers that could cause your GFCIs to trip. In most cases, resetting a GFCI in your Fox Valley, WI home should be both quick and easy. If it isn’t, the following are several possible reasons why.

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A Deep Dive Into Short Circuits

September 13, 2023

Short circuits are not just a spark or a glitch. They involve a complex interaction of currents that can lead to unexpected consequences. Join us as we navigate the details of short circuits, uncovering their causes and effects and the valuable insights they provide into the fascinating realm of electrical connections. What Is a Short Circuit? A short circuit occurs when an unintended low-resistance pathway is formed in an electrical circuit, allowing current to flow outside its intended route. This phenomenon results from a breach in isolation between conductive elements. It often leads to unintended consequences,

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How to Tell if Your Electrical System Needs to Be Upgraded

August 14, 2023

Modern households rely on electricity more now than ever before. The need for reliable and safe electricity in every home is only going to increase, meaning that your electrical system needs to keep up. However, many people neglect to upgrade the electrical systems in their homes for much longer than they should. This isn’t usually due to a lack of caring. Many people don’t know how to tell when their electrical system is due for an upgrade. Luckily, there are many symptoms of an outdated or damaged electrical system that any homeowner can learn to

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A Practical Guide to Understanding the Difference Between Watts and Amps

July 26, 2023

Electricity plays a vital role in modern life. Nevertheless, many people do not know the difference between 50-watt and 75-watt light bulbs or understand the importance of amps in the prevention of power outages. While we often take this natural phenomenon for granted, understanding the basics of electricity can provide insight into when to seek a professional for electrical maintenance and care. A look at the differences between watts and amps can create a wonderful foundation for ensuring that your home’s electrical system remains in excellent condition. What Are Watts? A watt is a unit of

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