Anderson Electric Corp.

5 Warning Signs Your Electrical Panel Needs an Upgrade

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 10:22:38 GMT

5 Warning Signs Your Electrical Panel Needs an Upgrade

You might have missed some of the signs that it’s time for an electrical panel upgrade in Montclair, NJ . If you’re unfamiliar with the common symptoms of a failing panel, you may not act in time to save your home from a hazardous situation. Discover how to identify the right time to make this essential home maintenance update.

1. Higher Energy Demand

Even though your electrical panel might regulate electricity properly, changes to the technology in your home will affect that process. As you increase your energy demand, the panel will have to regulate higher amounts of electricity.

Even if your home has a 200-amp panel, you should ask your electrician to evaluate how your new dishwasher, computer, or air purifier will affect the system.

2. Compliance Issues

If you have an older home, you might be overdue for an electrical panel upgrade in Montclair, NJ. That’s because a panel that’s more than a few years old won't meet modern building code standards. If you’re unsure about the age or compliance of your panel, schedule an electrical inspection.

3. Frequent Tripped Breakers

An obvious sign that you need a panel upgrade is a high frequency of power outages. If your breakers trip every time your HVAC system runs a cycle or you use your laundry machines, you're probably overloading the system. A panel upgrade will solve this problem and restore safe energy usage.

4. Signs of Electrical Fires

It’s possible to have small electrical fires caused by overheating. You might smell a burning odor or notice scorch marks on the walls near outlets. If you suspect this type of problem, turn off the breakers that correspond to the affected circuits and schedule immediate electrical repair services .

5. Lights Flicker or Dim

Your home’s lighting will flicker or dim when there's a loose connection. Alternatively, you might see these lighting issues when the panel is handling too much energy at one time. After inspecting the panel, your electrician can recommend upgrades that increase the system’s capacity.

Schedule Your Professional Electrical Panel Upgrade in Montclair, NJ

When you partner with Anderson Electric, our technicians will provide comprehensive electrical inspections and services. We’ll upgrade your electrical panel to ensure your home remains safe and legally compliant. Contact us to request an estimate today!

Electrician Near Me? Look No Further!

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 08:01:51 GMT

Electrician Near Me? Look No Further!

When homeowners face new electrical issues, the first thing most of them do is type in the phrase “ electrician near me. ”

However, there’s more to finding an electrician than just clicking a link. You should carefully consider your options to ensure that you get professional service and lasting results. Here are some key criteria to look for.

A Full Range of Electrical Services

The best electricians will offer a full range of services. Over the years, your home could require anything from new lighting to electrical panel replacement , and each type of job calls for specific knowledge and skills. Your electrician should be able to handle all of your needs, whether they involve installation, repairs, or maintenance.

Alongside fundamentals like wiring, outlets, switches, lighting, and panels, your electrician should stay up to date on the services they offer. Homeowners are increasingly looking for things like standby generators, EV chargers, and smart home technology, so choose an electrician who provides these services.

An Experienced Team

Judging an electrician based on their experience is a great way to narrow down your options. A team with decades of experience has likely handled a situation just like yours before and can deliver a rapid and reliable solution.

Check to see that your electrician holds the appropriate licenses as well. Electrical work is about more than just your convenience and comfort. The most important factor is safety.

Affordable Rates and Special Promos

Cost is another factor that can affect your decision. While it’s not always the best to go with the lowest price, you want to know that you’re getting real value for what you’re paying. A reliable electrician will provide free estimates so you can judge for yourself.

You should also check for any special promotions. Some electricians provide deals on EV chargers, panel replacements, and other services. New customer offers and senior citizen discounts are also worth looking for, if applicable.

The Perfect Electrician Near Me

If you’re here because you searched for “ electrician near me ,” you’ve found the right place. At Anderson Electric, we offer a full range of services, over 20 years of experience, and affordable pricing to take care of all your electrical needs.

Reach out today to schedule service for any electrical installation, repairs, or maintenance.

What Is Knob and Tube Wiring?

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:47:51 GMT

What Is Knob and Tube Wiring?

Depending on the age of your home and its maintenance history, you might still have knob and tube wiring .

What is knob and tube wiring? If you’re unfamiliar with this type of system, you can use this guide to determine whether your home uses it. The following information will also help you decide when to upgrade your house’s electrical wiring .

Residential Electrical Systems: What Is Knob and Tube Wiring?

This type of wiring is copper wiring that runs through ceramic tubes. In addition, ceramic knobs serve as supports for the wiring throughout the home. The ceramic material acts as insulation and can last for decades.

The wires that connect to light switches or electrical outlets have additional insulation. This cloth insulation is commonly known as the loom. In this system, hot and neutral wires stay separated by a space of four to six inches. Maintaining this gap eliminates the need for grounding.

Is Knob and Tube Wiring Dangerous?

Knob and tube wiring is generally safe for use, but the system does deteriorate over time. The wires stretch and become loose, increasing the likelihood of an electrical short. The fabric loom insulation compounds this problem since it is a flammable material.

The long-term deterioration and lack of grounding wires usually prompt homeowners to upgrade their electrical systems. An electrical inspection will uncover deterioration and other issues affecting the safe use of your knob and tube wiring .

How Will an Electrician Update Your Home’s Wiring?

You may wonder, “What is knob and tube wiring usually replaced with when the system deteriorates?” Your electrician will replace the entire setup with NM (non-metallic) cables. This system consists of a large plastic sheath containing insulated hot, neutral, and ground wires. The electrician will also replace your old outlets with GFCI and AFCI outlets. The updated outlets will guard against shocks and overheating.

Start With a Professional Electrical Inspection

When you partner with Anderson Electric, we’ll provide a thorough inspection. Our comprehensive report will allow you to determine when it’s time to upgrade your electrical system . We provide repairs and installation services to ensure you’ll continue using energy safely and efficiently. Contact us to schedule service today.

What Are the Signs You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade?

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 05:25:00 GMT

What Are the Signs You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade?

Keeping your electrical panel up to date is one of the most important things you can do for the safety and security of your home or business. It’s not always easy to know when it’s time for an electrical panel replacement in Cedar Grove, though.

In New Jersey, an electrical panel can last anywhere from 25 to 40 years, but factors like your energy usage, the outdoor environment, and maintenance can impact that lifespan greatly. Fortunately, there are other key signs that it’s time to upgrade your electrical panel.

Frequently Tripped Breakers

It’s normal to get a tripped breaker occasionally, but this isn’t something that should happen regularly. Tripped breakers work as a safety feature to keep your electrical panel from overheating.

When you have to reset the breakers on a consistent basis, there’s a problem with your electrical system. An electrical inspection can uncover the cause of the tripped breakers.

Corrosion on the Panel

Rust on the panel can lead to serious hidden issues. The presence of rust can suggest you have moisture or a water leak that’s affecting the panel. This rust might spread deeper, causing overheating at the connection points. As a result, a rusty or corroded panel can overheat without tripping the breakers.

Heat or Odors Coming From the Panel

If the panel feels warm or hot to the touch, you likely need an immediate electrical panel replacement in Cedar Grove. Look for scorch marks on the wall surrounding the panel, and you might also notice an odor that smells like burning wires. A professional can determine the cause of overheating before you experience an emergency.

New Appliances or Equipment

When you add any new appliance or large electrical device to your home, schedule an electrical inspection. Your electrician can make sure you connect the equipment properly and evaluate whether you need a panel upgrade. This will ensure you can use the new equipment without compromising the safety of your home.

Get an Estimate for Your Electrical Panel Replacement in Cedar Grove

At Anderson Electric, our certified team has over 20 years of experience handling the electrical needs of both homes and businesses in Cedar Grove and the surrounding areas. Whether you need a panel upgrade or emergency repairs , we can tackle the job with expert care you can trust. Contact us to request a free estimate today.

Top 3 Reasons You Should Replace Your Knob and Tube Wiring

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 22:53:52 GMT

Top 3 Reasons You Should Replace Your Knob and Tube Wiring

Before the mid-20th century, builders and electricians used ceramic knobs and tubes to insulate and guide the electrical wiring in residential homes. The ceramic tubes run through the studs and joints in your home’s frame, providing a layer of protection between hot wires and flammable wood.

While every older home doesn't necessarily need knob and tube wire replacement , here are a few reasons to consider it.

1. You Don’t Have a Ground Wire

In the past, building codes didn’t require electrical systems to use ground wires. While today’s regulations are different, older homes aren't obligated to undergo upgrades to comply with newer building codes. What does this mean for you? It means you can’t use any device that has a third prong.

More importantly, it means you don’t have any protection against electrical shorts or ground faults. The ground wire works as a backup for the neutral (black) wire in your electrical outlets. If the neutral wire becomes compromised, a ground wire takes over to regulate electrical flow. This can save you from suffering an electrical shock.

2. You Probably Have Wear and Tear Deterioration

The condition of your electrical system might increase the need for a knob and tube wire replacement . While this system is durable, it will break down over time. The wires will become brittle, and the risk of a short will increase.

If you frequently blow fuses or trip your breakers, updating to a system that can handle today’s energy requirements might solve your problem.

3. Your Wiring Lacks Moisture Protection

Older wiring faces a greater risk of moisture exposure. Even a small amount of moisture can cause a short in an exposed circuit. This can lead to electrocution, house fires, and power outages.

Modern wiring has better insulation, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and other high-moisture areas. Upgrade your home’s entire system for the best protection.

Trust the Experts With Your Knob and Tube Wire Replacement

When you partner with Anderson Electric, we can provide a full electrical inspection . We’ll help you determine whether it’s time to upgrade your home’s electrical system for safe and efficient use. We also provide electrical repairs in addition to our comprehensive electrical installation services. Contact us to schedule service today!

The Many Benefits of Installing a Tankless Hot Water Heater

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 06:29:03 GMT

The Many Benefits of Installing a Tankless Hot Water Heater

Have you ever considered upgrading your home with a tankless hot water heater ? Triumph Heating and Air Conditioning, your trusted local HVAC partner, can help! This innovative technology is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. Read on to discover the many benefits of tankless hot water heater installation.

Energy Efficiency

Start enjoying lower utility bills when you contact Triumph Heating and Air Conditioning for your new tankless hot water heater installation. Traditional water heaters consume considerably more energy to continuously fill a tank with hot water. Tankless models only heat water as it's needed, cutting your utility bills as a result.

Does your home use 41 gallons of hot water or less daily? If so, you could easily see 24%–34% more energy efficiency from a tankless water heater . Simply have our experienced technicians install additional units for homes with higher hot water usage. Not only will you have a reduced carbon footprint for your home, but you also might qualify for federal tax credits or utility rebates for installing a high-efficiency tankless water heater!

Hot Showers on Demand

Who doesn't love a nice, hot shower? One of the most significant advantages of making the change to a tankless water heater is the convenience of enjoying hot showers on demand. If you have a big family and a traditional unit, you have more than likely experienced the frustration of having to take a cold shower occasionally. With a tankless water heater, this inconvenience becomes a thing of the past, bringing you comfort and relief.

Standard tanks hold between 40 and 80 gallons of water. Washing dishes, doing laundry, taking baths and showers, and anything else you need hot water for factor into this limited supply of hot water. Contact Triumph Heating and Air Conditioning and say goodbye to the needless stress and frustration of a limited hot water supply.

Space-Saving Technology

Did you know that most tankless hot water heaters are around the size of a small carry-on suitcase and can be mounted on a wall? This innovative technology is perfect for homes with limited space, helping you stay organized and efficient. Plus, they are more aesthetically pleasing than the bulky and cumbersome traditional versions, adding a touch of modernity to your home.

Typically, a traditional, cylindrical 40 to 50-gallon tank-style heater is 54 to 60 inches tall with a 20-inch diameter. A modern rectangular tankless unit is approximately 27 inches tall, 18 inches wide, and 10 inches deep. You can find tankless models installed everywhere, from a tiny area such as a closet, inside a basement, or outdoors with appropriate weather protection.

Safety and Reliability

You will love how safe and reliable tankless hot water heaters are for your home. Say goodbye to the risk of overheating and water pressure buildup. Sealed combustion means your family will have lower risks of carbon monoxide poisoning. Many of today's models include safety features such as built-in sensors to detect overheating. They also typically come with leak detection and an auto-shutoff feature for enhanced safety and protection.

Easy Maintenance

Tankless water heaters generally require less maintenance than standard models. Rust, scale, and sediment buildup are not commonly encountered when upgrading to this innovative technology. You will enjoy cleaner water as a result! With annual servicing, your tankless hot water heater will continue to perform efficiently for several years, protecting your investment.

Get Started Now

Why wait to start enjoying all the many benefits of tankless hot water heater installation ? Call or text the experts at Triumph Heating and Air Conditioning today at 250-870-6567 . Our valued customers like you enjoy exclusive promotions and convenient financing options to make it even easier to get the HVAC products and services you want when you need them the most. Get started now and take advantage of everything tankless water heaters offer!

What’s Included in a Summer Electrical Safety Inspection?

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 04:22:49 GMT

What’s Included in a Summer Electrical Safety Inspection?

Summer in New Jersey means rising temperatures — and rising electrical usage. Between air conditioners, fans, dehumidifiers, EV chargers, and outdoor appliances, your home’s electrical system will be working overtime.

That’s why now is the perfect time for a comprehensive electrical safety inspection .

At Anderson Electric, we help homeowners prepare for the heat by identifying potential risks, fixing hidden issues, and making sure their system is up to code before the busy season begins. Here’s what’s included — and why it matters.

Why Get an Electrical Inspection Before Summer?

Even if your lights seem fine and your panel isn’t tripping, your system could be under silent strain. Summer adds demand and environmental exposure (like humidity or storms) that can stress aging wires and overloaded circuits.

Benefits of a seasonal inspection include:

Preventing outages during peak usage
Protecting your family from fire hazards
Avoiding costly emergency repairs
Ensuring your HVAC and appliances run efficiently

What We Check During a Summer Electrical Safety Inspection

1. Electrical Panel Evaluation

We open your main service panel to:

Check breaker condition and labeling
Look for signs of overheating, rust, or loose wires
Evaluate if your panel is properly sized for your summer load (especially important if you’ve added AC units or EV chargers)

If your panel is outdated or underpowered, we’ll recommend options for a safe 200-amp panel upgrade .

�� Read: 5 Signs You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade in NJ →

2. GFCI and Outdoor Outlet Testing

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets are essential outdoors and near water — and they should be tested monthly.

We’ll:

Test GFCIs for fast, reliable shutoff
Inspect weatherproof covers and boxes
Look for corrosion or loose connections

Faulty GFCIs are one of the most common summer hazards near pools and patios.

�� See our blog: Outdoor Electrical Safety Tips for Summer →

3. HVAC and Cooling Circuit Review

Your air conditioner is likely the biggest electrical draw during summer. We’ll inspect:

HVAC circuit wiring
Disconnect box
Breaker capacity
Voltage drops when the system powers on

We also look for warning signs like dimming lights or buzzing sounds that could indicate overloaded circuits or failing connections.

4. Surge Protection Assessment

We check whether your system has adequate protection from lightning or utility surges — which are common during NJ storms.

If not, we may recommend a whole-home surge protector , which is installed directly at your panel to shield your entire system.

⚡ Learn more: Why Surge Protection Is Essential in NJ →

5. Grounding and Bonding Verification

Proper grounding is key to protecting people and equipment during faults or surges. We verify:

Ground rod connections
Neutral and ground separation in subpanels
Proper bonding of water/gas lines

Missing or faulty grounding is a major safety issue — and often goes unnoticed until there’s a serious problem.

6. Smoke Detector and CO Alarm Checks

We test hardwired smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure:

Power supply is stable
Batteries are functional
Units are still within their service life

For families spending more time indoors with windows closed and AC running, reliable CO detection is essential.

Where We Offer Inspections in New Jersey

Anderson Electric proudly serves:

Montclair
West Orange
Livingston
Caldwell
Verona
Bloomfield
And surrounding areas

Our licensed electricians know local codes, township regulations, and the unique needs of NJ homes.

FAQs: Summer Electrical Inspections in NJ

How long does an electrical safety inspection take?
Most inspections take 60–90 minutes, depending on the size of your home and system complexity.

Do I need one every year?
We recommend seasonal inspections — especially before summer and winter, when electrical demand peaks.

Is an inspection required by law?
Not typically, but if you're selling your home or making upgrades (like a new HVAC system), a current inspection may be required for permitting.

What if something fails the inspection?
We'll provide a clear report with recommendations. You’re not obligated to make upgrades, but we can complete repairs as needed — often the same day.

Will this inspection help with insurance?
Yes. Many insurers appreciate proof of proactive maintenance and may lower premiums for updated panels or smoke detectors.

Keep Cool and Safe This Summer

Your family’s comfort and safety shouldn’t be left to chance. Get ahead of potential issues and enjoy a stress-free season with a professional summer electrical inspection from Anderson Electric.

�� Book Your Electrical Safety Inspection Today →

Do You Really Need a Generator in Summer? Here’s What NJ Homeowners Should Know

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 04:21:02 GMT

Do You Really Need a Generator in Summer? Here’s What NJ Homeowners Should Know

When most people think about power outages, they picture winter snowstorms. But in New Jersey, summer blackouts are just as common — and often more disruptive.

From sudden thunderstorms to an overloaded grid, losing power in the summer can turn your home into an oven fast. Without cooling, refrigeration, or communication, an outage in July can be more than an inconvenience — it can be a serious safety risk .

At Anderson Electric, we’ve seen the impact of summer outages firsthand. Here’s why now is the right time to consider a whole-home generator — and how to choose the right one for your NJ home.

Why Are Summer Outages So Common in NJ?

Between June and August, New Jersey homeowners face:

Severe thunderstorms with lightning and high winds
Fallen trees on above-ground power lines
Heavy AC demand that strains the electrical grid
Transformer failures in high heat

All of these can leave entire neighborhoods in the dark — sometimes for hours or days.

What Happens When You Lose Power in the Summer?

Even a short blackout can cause:

Food spoilage in your fridge and freezer
Overheating in homes with no airflow
Loss of communication (no Wi-Fi or phone charging)
Medical equipment failure
Security system disruption

For families with young children , elderly relatives , or work-from-home professionals , these effects are more than just inconvenient — they’re dangerous.

Benefits of a Whole-Home Generator

A standby generator isn’t the same as a portable gas unit you roll out in an emergency. These systems:

Automatically turn on when power goes out
Run on natural gas or propane
Can power your entire home — or just key circuits

Top benefits include:

✅ Uninterrupted comfort (keep your AC running!)
✅ Food safety
✅ Work-from-home reliability
✅ Peace of mind during every storm

And because they’re installed by professionals and hardwired into your home, there’s no scrambling with extension cords or fuel tanks.

Signs You May Need a Generator This Summer

You may want to consider a generator if:

You experience frequent outages in your NJ neighborhood
You rely on medical devices or critical equipment at home
You’ve lost food or electronics during past surges or storms
You have a finished basement prone to sump pump failure
You simply want peace of mind this storm season

�� Need surge protection too? See our Whole-Home Surge Protection Blog →

Generator Installation: What to Expect

At Anderson Electric, we make the process simple:

Consultation — We assess your power needs and recommend the right size and model.
Permits & Prep — We handle all township permits and gas line coordination.
Installation — Our licensed electricians install your generator and automatic transfer switch.
Testing & Walkthrough — We test the system and show you how everything works.

We offer top brands like Generac and Kohler , with units sized for everything from basic backup to full-home coverage.

Service Areas We Cover in New Jersey

We provide backup generator installation throughout:

Montclair
Caldwell
West Orange
Livingston
Verona
Bloomfield
And nearby communities

Our team is local, licensed, and experienced in NJ-specific code and permitting requirements.

FAQ: Generators for Summer Power Outages in NJ

How long does a standby generator run?
With a steady fuel supply (natural gas or a full propane tank), most can run indefinitely. We recommend regular maintenance for long-term use.

How much does installation cost?
It depends on the size and coverage. Most homes in NJ spend between $6,000 and $12,000 for a turnkey system — Anderson Electric provides free estimates.

Is it noisy?
Most modern generators are quieter than a lawn mower. We choose models and install locations to minimize noise and comply with local codes.

Will my insurance premiums change?
Sometimes. A generator can reduce risk and may lead to lower rates. Check with your provider.

Can I use a portable generator instead?
You can, but they have limitations — manual startup, limited runtime, safety concerns, and they don’t support whole-home power. Standby systems are safer, faster, and more reliable.

Stay Powered — No Matter the Weather

Summer should be about enjoying the season — not worrying about outages. With a professionally installed backup generator from Anderson Electric, your home will stay cool, safe, and connected all season long.

�� Schedule a Generator Consultation with Anderson Electric Today →

How to Safely Use Outdoor Electrical Outlets and Lighting This Summer

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 06:54:46 GMT

How to Safely Use Outdoor Electrical Outlets and Lighting This Summer

As New Jersey homes gear up for BBQs, pool parties, and patio nights, outdoor electricity use spikes — and so does the risk of electrical hazards.

At Anderson Electric, we receive a sharp increase in summer service calls related to damaged outdoor outlets , tripped GFCIs , or even electrical shocks near pools and patios. Most of these issues can be avoided with a few safety upgrades and a quick inspection.

Whether you're plugging in string lights, running a sound system, or charging your EV, here’s how to keep things safe, code-compliant, and summer-ready .

1. Use GFCI-Protected Outlets for All Outdoor Power

Outdoor outlets in New Jersey homes are legally required to have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) — a safety device that shuts off power instantly if it detects a ground fault.

⚠️ If your outdoor outlets don’t have a “test” and “reset” button, they’re likely outdated and unsafe.

��️ We recommend testing GFCI outlets monthly , especially before heavy summer use. If they fail to reset or trip easily, it’s time to replace them.

2. Check for Weatherproof Covers

Even outdoor-rated outlets need protection from rain, sprinklers, and debris.

�� Use “in-use” weatherproof covers that allow cords to stay plugged in while shielding the outlet from moisture.

Old or cracked covers? Replace them now to avoid shorts or corrosion — especially if you use your outlets near:

Pools
Outdoor kitchens
Sprinkler zones

�� Learn more about prepping your whole system in: Is Your Home’s Electrical System Ready for Summer in NJ? →

3. Use the Right Extension Cords

Not all cords are made for the outdoors. Using indoor extension cords outside is a major fire risk.

✅ Look for labels like “W” or “Outdoor Rated.”

�� Avoid daisy-chaining multiple cords or overloading a single line.

If you’re running power more than 50 feet or powering multiple items (e.g., fans, lights, speakers), consider a dedicated outdoor circuit instead.

4. Upgrade to LED Landscape Lighting

Outdoor lighting adds ambiance and security, but it can also strain your panel if not installed properly.

�� LED lights are energy-efficient and last longer, reducing load and heat.

For high-end designs (pathway lights, step lighting, deck lighting), we recommend low-voltage systems professionally installed to avoid overload and wiring mistakes.

5. Keep Outdoor Electrical Boxes Elevated and Dry

Basement-level outlets or junction boxes near the ground are more susceptible to water damage during heavy NJ summer storms.

All outdoor wiring and boxes should be:

Properly sealed
Elevated off the ground
Connected with underground-rated conduit , if buried

⚠️ Never use electrical equipment with visible rust, cracks, or frayed wires.

6. Know When It’s Time to Call a Pro

If you’ve just added a:

Pool or hot tub
Outdoor kitchen or grill station
EV charging station
Pergola with lights and outlets

…you’re probably due for an electrical panel evaluation or a dedicated circuit installation. These upgrades help avoid overloading your system and keep your outdoor spaces safe.

�� Check out our blog on Electrical Panel Upgrades in NJ →

Serving New Jersey Homeowners All Summer Long

Anderson Electric installs and inspects safe, code-compliant outdoor wiring and outlets throughout:

West Orange
Montclair
Verona
Caldwell
Livingston
Bloomfield
And surrounding towns

From patio outlets to motion-sensor lighting, we make your outdoor spaces work — safely.

FAQs: Outdoor Electrical Safety in Summer

Are outdoor outlets different from indoor ones?
Yes. Outdoor outlets must be GFCI-protected and weather-resistant. They’re designed to prevent shocks and corrosion when exposed to moisture.

Do I need a permit to add an outdoor outlet in NJ?
In most cases, yes — especially for new wiring. Anderson Electric handles all permits and inspections for you.

What’s the best type of outdoor lighting for safety?
LED motion-sensor lights are great for walkways and backyards. Low-voltage LED systems are safe, efficient, and ideal for landscaping.

How often should I test GFCI outlets?
Monthly is ideal, especially before heavy summer use. Press the “test” button — power should cut off. Then press “reset” to restore power.

Can I install outdoor outlets myself?
It’s not recommended. Outdoor wiring must meet strict code requirements and be weather-sealed. A licensed electrician ensures safe, legal installation.

Light Up Your Summer — Safely

Your backyard should be a place of fun, not risk. Make sure your outdoor outlets, lights, and wiring are ready for a season of safe summer enjoyment.

�� Schedule an Outdoor Electrical Safety Check with Anderson Electric →

Why Whole-Home Surge Protection Is a Smart Move for NJ Homeowners

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 06:30:58 GMT

Why Whole-Home Surge Protection Is a Smart Move for NJ Homeowners

Summer in New Jersey brings sunny days, backyard fun — and powerful thunderstorms. But while most homeowners worry about power outages, the real hidden danger is what happens when the power comes back on.

That sudden spike in voltage, known as a power surge , can damage or destroy everything from your HVAC system to your laptop in the blink of an eye.

At Anderson Electric, we believe whole-home surge protection isn’t a luxury — it’s a smart investment in your home’s safety and long-term savings.

What Is a Power Surge?

A power surge is a brief spike in electrical voltage that flows through your home’s wiring. While it usually lasts less than a second, it can do long-lasting damage.

Common causes include:

Lightning strikes near power lines
Utility company grid switching
Downed trees or power lines
Malfunctioning appliances

Even minor surges can degrade electronics over time. A single powerful surge can destroy them instantly.

Why Plug-in Surge Protectors Aren’t Enough

You’ve probably used surge protector power strips for your TV or computer — and while they help, they only protect the devices plugged into them.

They don’t shield:

Major appliances (washer, dryer, refrigerator)
HVAC systems
Smart thermostats
Garage door openers
Built-in lighting systems

Whole-home surge protectors, on the other hand, are installed at your electrical panel , where they stop surges before they spread throughout your home.

�� Read: “Is Your Electrical System Ready for Summer in NJ?” →

5 Reasons to Install a Whole-Home Surge Protector

1. Protect Expensive Electronics and Appliances

From your refrigerator to your EV charger, modern homes rely on sensitive electronics. One big surge could cost you thousands in replacements.

2. Prevent Data Loss

Many homeowners forget that power surges can wipe hard drives and corrupt data — including family photos, work files, and security footage.

3. Guard Against Summer Storms

New Jersey’s summer thunderstorms are unpredictable. One lightning strike nearby could travel through utility lines into your home.

4. Lower the Risk of Fire

In rare cases, surges can cause wires to overheat and ignite. A surge protector helps shut down the surge path before damage can occur.

5. Peace of Mind

With a professionally installed unit, you don’t have to worry about “Did I plug that into a surge protector?” It’s built in — for your whole house.

Do Surge Protectors Really Work?

Yes — especially when installed by a licensed electrician. A whole-home surge protector typically:

Diverts excess voltage to your home’s grounding system
Activates automatically during a surge
Protects against both external and internal surges (like from a faulty appliance)

At Anderson Electric, we use top-rated models with fast clamping response times and multi-year warranties.

What Does Installation Involve?

Installing a whole-home surge protector is usually:

Quick (typically 1–2 hours)
Non-invasive (mounted near or inside your panel)
Code-compliant

We’ll evaluate your current panel, install the unit, and test it — all in one visit. If needed, we’ll also recommend an electrical panel upgrade to support your home’s growing power demands.

Thinking about a panel upgrade too? Here are 5 signs you might need one →

Service Areas We Cover in New Jersey

Anderson Electric proudly installs whole-home surge protection in:

Montclair
Caldwell
West Orange
Livingston
Verona
Bloomfield
And surrounding areas

FAQ: Surge Protection for NJ Homes

Does homeowner’s insurance cover surge damage?
Some policies cover it — but only after the damage occurs. A surge protector helps you avoid the claim (and deductible) altogether.

Can I install a whole-home surge protector myself?
No. This device connects directly to your electrical panel and requires a licensed electrician for safe, code-compliant installation.

Do I still need plug-in surge protectors?
Yes — for layered protection. A whole-home protector shields large surges, while plug-in strips guard sensitive devices like computers and routers.

How long do whole-home surge protectors last?
Typically 5–10 years, depending on the model and the number of surges they absorb. We offer models with indicator lights that show when replacement is needed.

Is surge protection required by code in New Jersey?
As of the 2020 NEC update, many new homes are required to have surge protection. For older homes, it's not mandatory — but highly recommended.

Protect Your Home the Smart Way

Storms and surges are unpredictable — but your protection doesn’t have to be.

If you're in New Jersey and ready to shield your home from summer hazards, trust Anderson Electric to install reliable whole-home surge protection that gives you peace of mind year-round.

�� Schedule Your Installation Today →

5 Signs You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade in New Jersey

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 02:34:02 GMT

5 Signs You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade in New Jersey

As New Jersey homeowners gear up for summer, one hidden issue could cause major headaches: an outdated electrical panel.

Your panel is the central hub of your home’s electrical system. It distributes power to every room and appliance. But older panels — especially those installed before the 1990s — often weren’t built to handle today’s power-hungry lifestyles.

At Anderson Electric, we specialize in modern electrical panel upgrades for homes across Northern and Central NJ. If you’ve experienced any of the signs below, it might be time to take a closer look at your panel before summer puts your system to the test.

1. You Constantly Trip Breakers

Does your power go out when you run the microwave and AC at the same time? Do you regularly have to reset breakers?

This is often a red flag that your panel is overloaded . Modern homes use far more electricity than they did decades ago — think smart TVs, EV chargers, central AC units, and more. A panel upgrade helps distribute power safely without risking fire or failure.

2. Your Home Still Uses a 100-Amp Panel

Many older New Jersey homes have 100-amp service , which may have been sufficient in the 70s or 80s — but not anymore. The standard for modern homes is 200 amps.

If you’ve recently added:

Central air conditioning
An electric vehicle charger
A hot tub
A finished basement with new outlets or lighting

…your current panel likely isn’t keeping up.

�� Learn what makes a summer-ready electrical system in NJ →

3. You Notice Flickering or Dimming Lights

Lights that flicker or dim when appliances turn on — especially large ones like an HVAC system or refrigerator — often point to voltage fluctuations caused by an overworked panel.

This isn’t just annoying — it can actually shorten the lifespan of your electronics and create unsafe wiring conditions behind the scenes.

4. You Still Have a Fuse Box (or Federal Pacific Panel)

If your home still uses a fuse box , or if your panel is labeled Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) or Zinsco , it's past time for an upgrade.

These older brands have been linked to serious safety issues, including an increased risk of electrical fires. They’re no longer considered safe or compliant by today’s standards.

We can help you safely transition to a modern, code-compliant panel with built-in breakers, surge protection, and capacity for future upgrades.

5. You Smell Burning or Feel Warmth Near the Panel

A burning smell , humming , or noticeable heat around your panel is a major warning sign of failing components. These symptoms should never be ignored and often indicate faulty breakers or overloaded circuits — both of which can spark fires.

Don’t wait. If you notice these signs, shut off power to the area and call a licensed electrician immediately.

Contact Anderson Electric for an emergency inspection →

Why Electrical Panel Upgrades Matter in NJ

New Jersey summers put serious strain on home electrical systems. AC units, dehumidifiers, EV chargers, and outdoor lighting all require more power — and outdated panels simply weren’t built for today’s demands.

Upgrading your panel means:

Greater home safety
Improved energy efficiency
Room to expand or renovate
Better resale value

Panel Upgrades Done Right — The Anderson Electric Way

We’ve helped hundreds of NJ homeowners upgrade their panels with expert service, full permitting, and peace of mind.

Serving Montclair, West Orange, Caldwell, Livingston, Verona, and surrounding towns
Licensed & insured electricians
We handle inspection, install, and cleanup — start to finish

FAQ: Electrical Panel Upgrades in New Jersey

How do I know if I have a 100-amp panel?
Check your panel’s label — it’s usually listed near the main breaker. If it says 100 amps, you likely need an upgrade for modern electrical loads.

How long does a panel upgrade take?
Most residential upgrades take 1–2 days, depending on access and complexity. We handle permits, inspections, and scheduling.

Will my power be off during the upgrade?
Yes, typically for several hours while we switch over your system. We’ll coordinate with you to minimize disruption.

Do I need a permit to upgrade my panel in NJ?
Yes. Anderson Electric takes care of all the permitting and inspection requirements, so you don’t have to.

Can I add more circuits without upgrading the panel?
Sometimes, but not always. If your panel is already at capacity, adding circuits without upgrading may not be safe or allowed under code.

Ready to Upgrade? Let’s Talk

Your home deserves a safe, efficient electrical system — especially before summer arrives. If you’ve seen the signs, don’t wait.

�� Schedule a Panel Upgrade Consultation with Anderson Electric Today →

Is Your Home’s Electrical System Ready for Summer in New Jersey? Here’s What to Check

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 02:29:04 GMT

Is Your Home’s Electrical System Ready for Summer in New Jersey? Here’s What to Check

As temperatures rise and New Jersey homes prepare for summer, your electrical system will soon be under a lot more stress. Air conditioning units, ceiling fans, pool pumps, outdoor lighting, and EV chargers all demand more power — and if your system isn’t up to the task, you could be looking at blown fuses, tripped breakers, or worse.

At Anderson Electric, we provide trusted home electrical services in Montclair, NJ , and throughout the region. We’ve seen it all — from overloaded panels on the hottest day of the year to homes completely unprepared for summer storms. Before the heatwave hits, here’s what our licensed electricians recommend every homeowner in New Jersey check (and upgrade, if needed) to stay safe, efficient, and powered all summer long.

1. Check for Circuit Overloads Before You Power Up

One of the most common summer service calls we get is due to tripped breakers and fuse blowouts when ACs, fridges, and other appliances run simultaneously. This is often a sign your electrical panel is outdated or under-capacity.

Pro Tip: If your home still uses a 100-amp panel, it may be time to upgrade to a 200-amp service, especially if you’ve added central AC, a hot tub, or plan to install an EV charger.

�� Read: 5 Signs You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade in NJ

2. Inspect Outdoor Outlets and Landscape Lighting

From string lights on the patio to backyard speakers, summer means more time outdoors — and more demand on outdoor outlets . But moisture, pests, and corrosion can cause these outlets to become unsafe.

Before plugging in, test your GFCI outlets (they protect you from shock) and look for cracked covers or exposed wiring.

Anderson Tip : We can install weather-rated outdoor receptacles with in-use covers to keep your setup both festive and safe as part of our broader home electrical services .

�� Read: Outdoor Electrical Safety Tips for Summer

3. Prepare for Increased Cooling Loads

Your air conditioner is likely the biggest power draw in your home during summer. If your wiring is old or your circuit is undersized, it can cause your AC to run inefficiently — or fail completely.

Consider an electrical inspection if:

Your AC struggles to cool rooms evenly
Lights dim when the AC kicks on
You hear buzzing or smell burning near outlets

�� Read: What’s Included in a Summer Electrical Safety Inspection?

4. Add Surge Protection for Summer Storms

New Jersey summer storms can knock out power in an instant. But even a brief power surge can damage sensitive electronics like computers, TVs, and HVAC equipment.

A whole-home surge protector installed at your main panel can prevent thousands in damage — and give you peace of mind when thunder rolls in.

�� Read: Why Whole-Home Surge Protection Is a Smart Move for NJ Homeowners

5. Think About Backup Power Before It’s Too Late

When the power goes out in July, it’s not just inconvenient — it’s unsafe, especially for homes with young kids, elderly residents, or medical equipment.

We recommend installing a standby generator that automatically kicks on when the grid fails. It’ll keep your fridge running, AC on, and life moving — even during the worst summer blackouts.

�� Read: Do You Really Need a Generator in Summer? Here’s What NJ Homeowners Should Know

Why Summer Brings More Electrical Hazards

Summer is a double-whammy for your electrical system:

Higher usage : Cooling systems, more people at home, and backyard entertainment all spike energy use.
Weather threats : Lightning strikes, downed trees, and floods increase outage risk.

If your system isn’t prepared, you’re more vulnerable to fires, outages, and damaged electronics — which is why proactive home electrical services are critical this time of year.

How Anderson Electric Helps New Jersey Homes Stay Safe

We’re more than just electricians — we’re your neighbors. Anderson Electric has served North and Central New Jersey for over 20 years, with trusted home electrical services in:

Montclair
West Orange
Livingston
Verona
Caldwell
And beyond

Every summer, we help homeowners get ahead of the heat by inspecting, upgrading, and safeguarding their electrical systems. Whether you need a quick outlet fix or a full panel replacement, we’ve got your back.

FAQs: Summer Electrical Prep for NJ Homes

What’s the most common electrical problem in summer?
Overloaded circuits from AC units running nonstop, especially in older homes with outdated panels.

Should I upgrade my electrical panel before summer?
If you’re adding high-draw appliances like central AC or an EV charger — yes. A 200-amp upgrade helps prevent overloads and supports modern living.

Is surge protection really necessary?
Absolutely. Summer storms in NJ often cause surges that can fry electronics. Whole-home surge protectors are a smart investment.

Can outdoor outlets go bad?
Yes — weather, corrosion, and pests can all damage outdoor receptacles. GFCI outlets should be tested monthly and replaced if faulty.

Do I need a permit for a generator in NJ?
Usually, yes. We handle all permitting and inspections as part of our turnkey generator installation service.

Final Thoughts

Don’t wait for the first blackout or blown fuse of the summer. Get your electrical system ready now with expert home electrical services from Anderson Electric — the trusted name for safe, reliable work in Montclair, NJ and beyond.

Why Summer Brings More Electrical Hazards

Summer is a double-whammy for your electrical system:

Higher usage : Cooling systems, more people at home, and backyard entertainment all spike energy use.
Weather threats : Lightning strikes, downed trees, and floods increase outage risk.

If your system isn’t prepared, you’re more vulnerable to fires, outages, and damaged electronics.

How Anderson Electric Helps New Jersey Homes Stay Safe

We’re more than just electricians — we’re your neighbors. Anderson Electric has served North and Central New Jersey for over 20 years, with trusted residential electrical services in:

Montclair
West Orange
Livingston
Verona
Caldwell
And beyond

FAQs: Summer Electrical Prep for NJ Homes

What’s the most common electrical problem in summer?
Overloaded circuits from AC units running nonstop, especially in older homes with outdated panels.

Is surge protection really necessary?
Absolutely. Summer storms in NJ often cause surges that can fry electronics. Whole-home surge protectors are a smart investment.

Can outdoor outlets go bad?
Yes — weather, corrosion, and pests can all damage outdoor receptacles. GFCI outlets should be tested monthly and replaced if faulty.

Do I need a permit for a generator in NJ?
Usually, yes. We handle all permitting and inspections as part of our turnkey generator installation service.

Our Conclusions

Don’t wait for the first blackout or blown fuse of the summer. Get your home’s electrical system ready now with help from Anderson Electric — the trusted name for safe, reliable service in New Jersey.

�� Schedule Your Summer Electrical Check-Up Today

Summer Power Outages and Whole-House Generators

Thu, 22 May 2025 23:13:15 GMT

Summer Power Outages and Whole-House Generators

When summer windstorms or hurricanes cut off the electricity in your New Jersey home, it can take days to regain power. Northern Jersey’s ever-growing population, too, can strain the region’s electric grid.

With an increase in storm activity, modern homeowners have to address a more frequent need for emergency power. A whole-house generator provides the following advantages.

Avoid a Power Interruption

Once your Glen Ridge electrician finishes installing a whole-house generator, you’ll be prepared for any power outage. One of the most impressive advantages of your new system is that your home will automatically switch to the generator’s power. The system detects a loss of electricity and immediately supplies backup power within a few seconds.

Keep Essential Equipment Operational

Depending on the system your Glen Ridge electrician installs, you might use a smart mobile app to control the generator. The continuous operation and customizable control mean you’ll never worry about the essentials. Your major appliances, medical equipment, and other vital devices will stay operational.

Give Your Home’s Value a Boost

When you decide to list your home, you need selling points that will attract buyers. The whole-house generator will be a big hit. As summer power outages become more frequent, many buyers will pay a premium for a home that offers a supplemental source of energy.

Enjoy Safe Comfort After Your Glen Ridge Electrician Installs a Whole-House Generator

Before installing your whole-home generator , your electrician will determine your home’s energy needs. You can install a generator that powers the essentials, or a system that temporarily powers everything in your home.

No matter how much energy you want from your emergency generator, you can endure an outage without sacrificing your comfort.

Be Fully Prepared for the Next Power Outage

Anderson Electric offers electrical inspections, repairs, and installation services, including whole-house generators in Glen Ridge. If you want to make it through summer power outages in comfort, we can evaluate your home's emergency energy needs and install a system that fits those needs. To get started, contact us to request an estimate today!

Tips for Saving Energy This Summer

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 02:54:28 GMT

Tips for Saving Energy This Summer

Summer heat is on its way, so it’s time to make a game plan to save energy and avoid costly electricity bills! Fortunately, a few simple changes around your home can make a big difference. Follow these tips and you can crank your AC to remain cool without sacrificing your hard-earned money.

Factors That Cause Higher Summer Energy Bills

The higher the temperature, the harder your AC works to maintain your comfort. Along with high outdoor temperatures, though, other factors can cause your energy bill to rise:

Lower thermostat settings
Inadequate home insulation
An older roof
A backyard pool

Finally, if your kids are home for the summer, your family may use more electricity to keep appliances powered throughout the day. If you have older appliances, talk to the best electrician in Northern Jersey to learn about upgrading to more energy-efficient models.

How to Conserve Electricity in the Thick of Summer

Conserve electricity and lower your bills by following these tips.

Install a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats have changed the game for climate control. You can set up these devices to change your home’s temperature on a regular schedule. You can also access them through your phone to adjust the temperature from anywhere and maximize your energy savings.

Use Fans

Whether you call on the best electrician in Northern Jersey to install a ceiling fan or you use a standalone fan, you can circulate more cooled air and lower the demand on your AC system. Circulating air helps you feel cooler and allows you to increase the thermostat a few degrees without noticing a difference in comfort.

Close Curtains or Blinds

Sunlight shining through a window can be beautiful, but it also quickly raises the indoor temperature. Closing curtains or blinds during peak sunlight hours will block the direct heat and help your AC run more efficiently.

Cook Outdoors

Using an oven or stove instantly heats your home. Instead, fire up the grill or use smaller appliances, like a slow cooker, to keep your kitchen cooler.

Unplug and Relax

Some devices still draw energy even when turned off or in standby mode. This is known as “vampire power.” While it involves a relatively low amount of energy per device, the amount can add up. Unplug devices, such as phone chargers and countertop appliances, when they are not in use.

Work With the Best Electrician in Northern Jersey to Reduce Energy

Talk to an expert about upgrading your appliances to more energy-efficient models. Contact Anderson Electric to schedule your consultation !

Can Your Wiring Handle Your AC This Summer?

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 08:18:02 GMT

Can Your Wiring Handle Your AC This Summer?

Your AC is arguably your home’s biggest consumer of electricity during the summer months. But if your home’s wiring isn’t sufficient to handle it, you can face issues such as unit failures or even electrical fires. With that in mind, it may be best to schedule a wiring repair in New Jersey or any other similar services to ensure safe, reliable AC all summer long.

Why Your AC Puts a Heavy Load on Wiring

Air conditioners are highly efficient, but they still sap a lot of electricity during times of peak usage. Central AC units, for instance, require dedicated circuits that typically range from 15 to 45 amps, depending on size.

An undersized or damaged circuit won’t be able to meet your AC’s electrical demand. In the case of a properly installed electrical system, that will lead to frequent breaker trips when your AC runs, which themselves can lead to potential electrical fires.

Signs That Your Home May Have Wiring Issues

Some of the most apparent signs that your AC circuit has wiring issues include frequent breaker trips or the unit failing to work at all. In general, poor wiring around your home can lead to flickering lights, burning smells, or your outlets or electrical panel feeling warm. You shouldn’t ignore these signs, as they can indicate serious underlying issues.

How to Deal With Electrical Issues

If your home’s electrical system is damaged, a proper wiring repair in New Jersey may be the most pragmatic solution. Identifying problem areas and replacing the wiring and components within can get your home’s electrical system back up and running as good as new.

The underlying issue could be that your home’s electrical system doesn’t have the capacity for your AC unit, which can happen when modern units are installed in older homes. You may also require a new circuit or an electrical panel upgrade to ensure safe, reliable performance.

Expert Electrical Services and Wiring Repair in New Jersey

If you’re concerned that your home’s electrical system may not be sufficient for your cooling needs this summer, the team at Anderson Electric can help. We can evaluate your home’s wiring and electrical panel to ensure that they are sufficient for your AC. Contact us today to schedule service.

When to Consider Installing a New Electrical Panel

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 00:32:18 GMT

When to Consider Installing a New Electrical Panel

Your home’s electrical panel is what supplies energy to every appliance and device in your home. While the panel doesn’t need much maintenance, it does require an inspection from time to time. And at some point, your electrician might recommend a new electrical panel installation . Here’s what you need to know.

Update an Electrical Panel in an Older Home

You might need a new electrical panel installation if your home is a particularly older structure. Electricians use durable equipment to ensure residential electrical systems last, but most panels need replacing every 25 years. If your home is more than 30 years old and has never received an updated panel, it’s probably time to have an Anderson Electric technician inspect your system.

Schedule a New Electrical Panel Installation for Tripping Breakers

Your electrical panel’s breakers will trip to prevent overheating, but when the same breaker trips repeatedly, that’s a problem. You might have a wiring short or you could be drawing more energy than that circuit can handle. When multiple circuit breakers trip frequently, the problem is more widespread. Installing a panel that can handle greater electrical flow can help you use your home’s energy more safely.

Replace Your Panel When Installing New Equipment

Anytime you buy a new device or appliance for your home, it’s important to realize that the addition will increase your home's energy consumption, potentially exceeding the amount of electricity your panel can handle at one time. Installing a new panel with a larger capacity ensures you can efficiently use your new hot tub, dishwasher, or computer.

Replace Your Electrical Panel if You See Signs of Electrical Problems

Lights that flicker can also indicate energy flow issues in your home. Pay attention to burning odors and scorch marks around outlet and light switch plates. A common sign that many homeowners overlook is rust on the panel itself. Since that indicates moisture exposure, you’ll have to find and repair the source of the leak before replacing the panel.

Start With an Electrical Inspection

Anderson Electric provides comprehensive inspections to evaluate the condition of your home’s wiring and electrical panel . If you have an outdated electrical panel, we can replace it for you. We’ll provide a new panel that can handle your household’s current energy usage. Contact us to schedule service today.

How Installing a Heat Pump Can Save On Your Energy Bill

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 20:45:03 GMT

How Installing a Heat Pump Can Save On Your Energy Bill

Food, rent, vacations, and office supplies are just a few of the everyday expenditures that have increased in recent years. But thankfully, there are still ways to lower a few of your costs without sacrificing your standard of living — especially when it comes to your utility bills.

One of the most effective ways to drop your bills is to install a heat pump, which can help reduce your energy usage by anywhere from 30% to 60%, all without sacrificing your comfort.

Increasing Efficiency With Heat Pumps

Before you call the best electrician in Verona and demand a new heat pump installation, it’s helpful to understand how heat pumps use less energy. While a traditional AC unit or furnace will cool or heat air before circulating it through your home, heat pumps affect air temperature in a slightly different way.

Heat pumps essentially split the function of an air conditioner into two parts, one indoor and one outdoor.

The only connections between the units are refrigerant lines and electrical wiring. If you want to heat your home, the refrigerant absorbs warmth from the outdoor unit and sends it to the indoor unit. If you want to cool your home, the process runs in reverse.

Since heat pumps don’t produce heat but move it from one location to the other, they don’t require as much energy to control temperature. The result is less overall energy usage — in some cases, you might see as much as a 60% reduction.

How Much Money (and Energy) Can You Save?

There’s no single figure to indicate what your specific savings might be. However, reports show that the average homeowner sees annual savings of more than $500 by switching to a heat pump system.

If you were to multiply the 15-year average lifespan of a heat pump by $500 in energy savings, it would come out to $7,500 saved over the system’s lifespan.

This doesn’t even take into account the lower maintenance requirements characteristic of heat pumps, nor does it factor in other benefits, such as their minimally invasive installation process, quiet operation, and continuous temperature control.

Contact the Best Electrician in Verona for Your New Heat Pump

If you’re ready to reap the many benefits of a heat pump system, turn to the expert installers at Anderson Electric. Not only will you get the services of the best electrician in Verona, but you’ll also get ongoing maintenance to keep your system running like new throughout its life.

Lower your energy costs and stay comfortable in any season. Contact Anderson Electric today!

Could Your Holiday Lights Be Threatening Your Electrical System?

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 07:24:23 GMT

Could Your Holiday Lights Be Threatening Your Electrical System?

One of the hallmarks of the holiday season is the multitude of Christmas lights you can see in New Jersey. However, these lights can come with certain risks to your electrical system , which could result in accidents like house fires and electrocution.

For residents of West Orange, it’s important to learn safe practices when it comes to holiday lights so that you can enjoy them without worry.

Use the Correct Holiday Lights for the Situation

Most holiday lights look similar, but there are differences between outdoor and indoor lights. Using the wrong lights for the environment can lead to fire hazards and more safety risks. This is because indoor holiday lights are specifically designed to light trees without burning the branches, while outdoor lights have protection against rain and snow.

If you have an old strand of lights, your West Orange electrician can determine whether they are indoor or outdoor lights.

Ask a West Orange Electrician to Evaluate Your Electrical System

Holiday lights can demand a significantly higher amount of energy from your electrical system than usual. It’s a good idea to consult a West Orange electrician anytime you increase your household’s energy usage. They can determine whether your system can handle the extra flow of energy required to power your holiday lights or electronic decorations.

If your holiday lights trip a circuit breaker, make sure to call the pros right away. This could signal that your current electrical system is not equipped to support the additional demand, which could pose a safety risk.

Inspect the Condition of Your Holiday Lights

You should inspect every string of lights you use to decorate your home for the holidays. This is especially important if you have been using the same holiday lights for several years.

If you do see exposed wiring, missing bulbs, or black scorch marks, throw that strand of lights away. In addition, avoid connecting more than three strands together in one line. Connecting too many strands can lead to overheating and increase the risks of a fire, no matter the condition of your electrical system.

Update Your Electrical System Today

If you’re not sure whether your home’s electrical system is prepared to handle the increased energy demands of holiday lights, turn to Anderson Electric.

Our experienced technicians provide a wide range of electrical services — from installations to repairs — and we can also conduct a thorough evaluation of your electrical system to determine whether an update is necessary. Contact us to schedule your electrical system inspection today.

Upgrading Your Electrical System is Essential for Today’s Modern Living

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 07:31:50 GMT

Upgrading Your Electrical System is Essential for Today’s Modern Living

Upgrading your home’s electrical system is crucial, especially as power demands continue to rise. According to George R. Anderson, owner of Anderson Electric Corp., there are three primary reasons why homeowners should consider this upgrade.

First, with the increasing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), many homes need a 200-amp service to handle the significant power required to charge these vehicles. Older systems, typically 60-100 amps, may not provide the necessary capacity, leading to insufficient power supply for EV chargers.

Second, older electrical services, particularly those installed in homes built several decades ago, often have exterior wiring that has deteriorated over time. This deterioration can lead to significant safety hazards. For example, cracked insulation or exposed wires can allow moisture to seep in, leading to corrosion or even fire risks. Therefore, upgrading ensures both the exterior wiring and the meter are modern and weatherproof.

Finally, upgrading your electrical system allows for the addition of new branch circuits, which are essential for powering modern appliances and home additions. With today’s homes requiring more power than ever before for appliances like saunas, HVAC systems, and exercise equipment, upgrading to a 200-amp service ensures your home can safely handle these demands.

The good news is that an electrical system upgrade can be done quickly. “Most service upgrades are completed in just one day. Power is usually restored by the afternoon, minimizing any disruption,” explains Anderson. This efficiency makes it a convenient option for homeowners.

Call today to schedule an upgrade to your electrical system.

Anderson Electric Corp.

395 Little Falls Road, Cedar Grove

973-857-4333

Electrical Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 04:15:10 GMT

Electrical Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Some electrical issues are severe. Others aren’t as big of a deal — at least not immediately. But how is the average homeowner supposed to know the severity of a potential issue? Here are a few symptoms that warrant a call to an electrician in Montclair as soon as possible.

Burning Smells and Strange Odors

A strange smell from your outlets, especially when it smells like something is burning, is an enormous red flag. A more plastic-like smell could mean damaged wiring or insulation melting from exposure to heat from your electrical system. The burning smell could be overheating wires.

Both scenarios are dangerous, so call an electrician immediately to identify the cause and determine a solution. Turn off the power, and if it’s safe, investigate the area to learn more about the root of the issue.

Circuit Breakers Tripping Frequently

Circuit breaker trips may just seem like an inconvenience. However, they’re an important design feature that protects your home by automatically shutting off all the power when it’s overloaded. If trips are happening constantly, there’s likely something wrong with your system.

It’s not always something problematic — it could even be due to a malfunctioning electrical device. That doesn’t mean you should overlook calling an electrician in Montclair if you’re struggling with frequent breaker trips, as the issue could be due to faulty wiring, which could lead to an electrical fire.

Buzzing or Crackling Sounds

Buzzing and crackling from your outlets or appliances could be caused by a few different issues. You may be hearing a loose connection or faulty wiring. It’s equally likely there are damaged components if you’re hearing the sound from an appliance rather than the outlet.

It’s hard to tell where the problem lies just by listening. Additionally, since leaving it alone could spell appliance failure or something even more dangerous, it’s best to err on the side of caution. Turn off the power and contact an electrician.

Call Anderson Electric for a Professional Electrician in Montclair

Electrical issues are never something to gamble with. If you’re worried about your wiring, call Anderson Electric today to schedule an inspection and get the peace of mind you need.

Ceiling Fans Are Not Just for the Summer!

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 20:11:34 GMT

Ceiling Fans Are Not Just for the Summer!

When you think of using a ceiling fan, you likely imagine a hot summer night, but can ceiling fans also elevate your comfort in the winter? With help from the best electrician in Montclair, NJ, you can install a ceiling fan that will enhance your home.

How Ceiling Fans Help in the Colder Months

Most ceiling fans have a switch to control the direction the blades rotate. In the summer, you want your fan to help cool your home, so the blades should rotate counterclockwise. Most fans are automatically set to spin in this direction.

During winter, however, you want your ceiling fan to assist in heating your home. If you change the switch so that your fan moves clockwise, the blades will push air upward, which helps distribute the heat in your room.

As the blades rotate, they pull in air and force it toward the ceiling. This movement causes the air near the top of the room to move toward the walls near the outer edges. Eventually, the air moves back to the floor. Because this air is warmer, the entire room begins to feel warm.

Benefits of a Year-Round Ceiling Fan

Using your ceiling fan all year creates a more comfortable home but also helps you save money. Running a ceiling fan helps keep a comfortable temperature, so you might be able to set your thermostat a little higher or lower than you typically do.

Changing the settings will save some energy because your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard to warm your home. Lightening the load for your heater can prolong the lifespan of your system.

Maximize Winter Ceiling Fan Performance

To ensure proper ceiling fan installation , you need the best electrician in Montclair, NJ. They know the rules and regulations for local electrical codes . After your fan is installed, routine maintenance and cleaning will extend its lifespan and keep it working at its best.

The Best Electrician in Montclair, NJ

When you work with Anderson Electric, you’ll get knowledgeable technicians, quality products, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Contact us today for help selecting or installing your ceiling fan.

Here’s Why Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping!

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 00:15:11 GMT

Here’s Why Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping!

If you always have to deal with your circuit breaker tripping, you’re probably fed up. It’s even more frustrating when you aren’t sure why it’s happening. Don’t stay in the dark about your electrical issues any longer. Here’s what might be going on and why you might want to start searching for “ electrician near me in Caldwell, NJ” for solutions.

Your Circuit Is Overloaded

Most homeowners run several electronics at once. If your circuit can’t handle that, it will get overloaded and trip the breaker. This is mostly a good thing; overloaded circuits can be dangerous, so it’s a sign that your system is working as intended.

Even though it’s frustrating, there are ways to keep this from happening. For example, you can try to space out your power usage throughout the day so you aren’t running high-demand appliances all at the same time.

Your System Short Circuits

A sudden surge of electricity causes short-circuiting. This can happen with faulty wiring or even when pests chew on wiring.

If you notice a burning smell, scorch marks, or a buzzing noise near outlets, you’re likely experiencing a short circuit. You should search for “ electrician near me in Caldwell, NJ” the moment you notice any of these issues — don’t leave a short circuit alone for too long!

You’ve Experienced a Ground Fault

Finally, consider the possibility of a ground fault. This happens when a hot wire comes into contact with a grounded surface, such as metal or water. Ground faults are hazardous in areas with high moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens.

Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are designed to detect these faults and cut off power to prevent electric shock. If yours keeps tripping, it might be a sign of a ground fault. Check your appliances and outlets for moisture or damage. If you’re unsure of how to proceed, call a pro for help.

Searching for an Electrician Near Me in Caldwell, NJ? Anderson Electric Is Here for You

Regardless of what the issue might be with your circuit breaker, you need a professional, prompt team to handle it for you. Contact Anderson Electric today and we’ll help get you out of the loop of your circuit breaker tripping all the time.

What’s the Deal With GFCI and AFCI Outlets?

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 06:24:01 GMT

What’s the Deal With GFCI and AFCI Outlets?

As a reliable electrician in Totowa, NJ, Anderson Electric fields a lot of calls about ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) and arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) outlets. Both are good for minimizing electrical hazards in the home, but each one focuses on a different kind of electrical issue . Join us below as we take a quick dive into the specifics of each outlet.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters

A GFCI outlet addresses the risks of electrical shocks by monitoring how electrical currents travel through the circuit. When it detects a divergence between incoming and outgoing electrical flows, it immediately shuts down to stop the flow and prevent the immediate possibility of shock.

Usually, having that situation occur is evidence that damp areas in your home may be causing leaks to the ground beneath it. As such, a GFCI outlet is best suited for high-moisture regions of your home, like the kitchen, the bathroom, an unfinished basement, or the laundry room.

The protection a GFCI outlet delivers can limit severe injuries and electrocution from coming in contact with a live wire and appliance malfunctions. However, it does not cover issues like hot wires and sparks. It’s best to speak to an electrician in Totowa, NJ, to get a more thorough understanding of how they operate.

Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters

The objective of an AFCI outlet is to safeguard your home from electrical fires. It looks for unusual electrical patterns, known as “arc faults,” throughout your home, which can be caused by circuit overloads, damaged wiring, and loose connections. They can create high heat that sets their surroundings on fire.

The main advantage of an AFCI outlet is that it prevents such fires, especially in rooms that are most at risk of fire damage, like bedrooms, living rooms, and places where electronics are stored. Unlike GFCI outlets, though, AFCI outlets don’t address the potential of electric shock.

How GFCI and AFCI Outlets Work Together

Both kinds of outlets can co-exist in one home. In fact, building codes in some areas may require installing each type for newly built homes. Older homes may benefit from installing both outlets in key areas to prevent hazards.

Learn About GFCI and AFCI Outlets From a Professional Electrician in Totowa, NJ

To get a better understanding of how GFCI and AFCI outlets can protect your home from electrical disasters, call Anderson Electric or schedule an appointment online.

Electrical Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 00:26:40 GMT

Electrical Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

It’s easy to disregard electrical glitches in your home. A little flickering light won’t hurt, right? Unfortunately, it can be a real problem. Unaddressed electrical issues can cause electrical shocks or house fires that destroy all your belongings in minutes.

Electrical problems should not be taken lightly. It’s crucial to contact a qualified electrician in Montclair, NJ, who can accurately diagnose the issue and propose a safe solution. Recognizing the warning signs is key to taking action.

Signs You Need to Hire an Electrician in Montclair, NJ

Electrical problems come in various forms, but they all necessitate the expertise of a trained professional. While an experienced electrician can handle any issue, it’s beneficial for homeowners to be aware of the most prevalent warning signs that could indicate a more severe problem.

Lights That Flicker or Unexpectedly Turn Off

A flickering light may be caused by a loose bulb. However, it could also signal a loose wiring connection or a worn-out light fixture. Turn off the fixture and examine the bulb, fixture, and wiring supply for signs of damage. An experienced electrician in Montclair, NJ, should inspect the wiring and test the circuit breaker to verify it’s operating safely.

Circuit Breakers That Constantly Trip

Circuit breakers are designed to protect your home from a power surge. If they trip regularly, it could indicate an electrical overload. If this happens a few times, it might not be concerning. However, if this is a persistent issue, it may be time to contact your local electrician for professional repairs .

Outlets That Are Warm to the Touch

If your outlets feel warm, there is a breach in the system. It could be caused by improperly sized wiring or a loose electrical connection. Pay attention to this issue because it will only get worse. An electrical technician can repair the problem efficiently and promptly.

Buzzing or Sizzling Sounds

A properly working electrical system shouldn’t make much noise. If you notice any humming, sizzling, or buzzing coming from your fixtures, it could indicate a loose connection or problematic wiring. These are early warning signs of a fire hazard and should be addressed by a professional immediately.

Do You Need a Qualified Electrical Company?

The electrical hazards in your home aren’t always immediately apparent. Scheduling routine electrical inspections can detect potential issues early and prevent costly damage. Contact Anderson Electric to schedule service with a qualified electrician.

Electrical Upgrades to Consider for Your Home

Wed, 22 May 2024 08:14:10 GMT

Electrical Upgrades to Consider for Your Home

There’s no denying that technology has changed considerably in recent years, leading to differences in how we use energy. Updating your home’s electrical system to accommodate those changes is essential. These modifications will help you use energy more safely and efficiently.

Update Your Electrical Panel

There’s a good chance you need an electrician in Essex Fells, NJ, to update your home’s electrical panel . Even compared to the energy usage of households a couple of decades ago, today’s homes consume considerably more energy. You may need an upgrade to continue using energy safely in your home.

If you have noticed that you frequently trip your circuit breakers or that the lights tend to flicker in your home, schedule an electrical panel inspection. It’s also a good idea to consult an electrician anytime you introduce a new appliance or other electrical device to your home.

An Electrician in Essex Fells, NJ, Can Install Charging Stations

Don’t get frustrated by the lack of electrical outlets in your home. When you have phones, tablets, and laptop computers taking up outlet space, an electrician can install charging stations throughout your home.

In addition to freeing up more outlet space, charging stations that provide USB ports will improve energy efficiency.

Get Proactive With an EV Charging Station

Government policies, auto manufacturers, and changing philosophies are leading many to switch to electric vehicles. In spite of growing interest, commercial EV charging stations are still few and far between. An electrician in Essex Fells, NJ, can add a personal EV charging station to your home’s electrical system.

Make this an essential update in anticipation of buying an electric vehicle. You’ll save money when compared to commercial charging rates. You’ll also enjoy the convenience of charging your electric vehicle on your own time rather than waiting in line at a service station.

Trust the Pros to Update Your Home’s Electrical System

Anderson Electric provides electrical inspections, upgrades, and repairs. We can install new equipment or help you boost energy efficiency in your home. To learn more about the best upgrades for your home, contact us today .

These Signs Indicate You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade

Sat, 04 May 2024 19:49:39 GMT

These Signs Indicate You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade

It’s not every day that you wonder about your electrical panel, but is it time you started? Here’s how to know if you need electrical panel replacement in North Caldwell, NJ.

There Are Frequent Breaker Trips

No electrical panel will last its entire lifespan without tripping a few times. But if it’s starting to happen a little too often, it’s probably time you had an electrical technician look at it. New appliances may be causing your panel to work overtime and damaging the circuit boards.

You Have Higher-Than-Average Utility Bills

If your eyebrows are getting higher and higher every time you see your electric bill, it may not be because of your usage. Rusted or weak wiring could affect the electricity distributed throughout your home. The result can cost you quite a bit, so much so that it’s worth looking into electrical panel replacement in North Caldwell, NJ, if you notice it.

You Notice Strange Smells or Sounds From the Panel

Electrical panels shouldn’t be making noise. If yours is, there’s little chance it’s behaving normally. Any crackling or sizzling could mean your home is at risk of an electrical fire. Contact an electrician immediately if you notice these noises. You might just need a repair and not a full replacement, but you should still seek assistance right away.

Similarly, electrical panels giving off a burning odor are equally in dire need of attention. Don’t ignore this to prevent potential fire hazards.

You Live in an Older Home

Older homes come default with older electrical panels. And while they were enough to fulfill the energy requirements of the past, they’re often incredibly inefficient by today’s standards.

Anyone with a home built before 1995 would benefit from an electrical inspection to determine the health of their panel. A professional can help guide you in the right direction, whether that be a maintenance plan or a replacement.

Call for Professional Electrical Panel Replacement in North Caldwell, NJ

You can rely on Anderson Electric to deliver consistent, quality electrical services for our New Jersey residents. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule your replacement appointment.

Electrical Repairs for a Safer Home

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 04:51:44 GMT

Electrical Repairs for a Safer Home

It’s never ideal when something in your home needs repairs. But it’s a much more concerning issue if what needs to be repaired is the electrical system. Here’s what you should do when you need an electrician near Montclair, NJ.

Not a DIY Job

Electrical repairs aren’t something anyone should attempt without the proper experience and training. Even if it seems like a simple fix, calling a professional is always the safest bet.

If you attempt to fix it yourself, you could potentially make matters worse. Then you will still have to call an electrician and probably shell out a lot more money for what would have otherwise been a straightforward repair.

The Right Stuff

Along with bringing in someone with the proper training and experience, calling an electrician near Montclair, NJ, also ensures your repair is completed with quality equipment. They’ll already have every tool necessary to finish the task correctly, lowering the chances of something going wrong.

A Real Time Saver

Electricians’ training also means they can make short work of many home repairs. This efficiency is essential if you’re in an emergency or the repair is complex, but it’s also beneficial in virtually every scenario. Attempting to do the work yourself is guaranteed to waste time in comparison, and it’s generally not worth your hassle.

Avoid Legal Issues

You need a permit before you can work on electrical repairs . The person with the permit has demonstrated they know how to handle electrical work safely. There’s a chance that if you attempt electrical repairs without one, you could be held liable for damages if someone is injured.

Avoid Insurance Issues

This is a similar issue to legality problems. If something goes wrong with your electricity and it’s not addressed by a professional, the insurance company might not cover the damages. Having a certified electrician address your electrical maintenance and repairs prevents this from ever being a problem.

Hire a Professional Electrician Near Montclair, NJ

Your home should be the place where you feel the safest. Contact Anderson Electric today for professional services and get that sense of security back.

Exploring the Many Options for Recessed Lighting

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 05:56:39 GMT

Exploring the Many Options for Recessed Lighting

When you’re looking for a sleek, unobtrusive, and versatile way to light your home, recessed lighting may be the best option available. But while this style of lighting is intentionally minimalist, that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of variations to choose from.

When you start looking into recessed lighting installation in Montclair, NJ, you’ll find that there are some choices to make regarding the recessed lighting you prefer. To get a better idea of what your options are, take a look at this quick guide.

Trim Options

There are several styles of trim to choose from with your recessed lighting. The differences between them can be style-based, but they tend to center around the sort of lighting they provide. Here are just a few options as an example.

Open

Open trim provides plenty of bright light that can cover large spaces.

Baffle

Baffle trim is designed to reduce glare so the lighting is softer and more relaxing on the eye.

Adjustable

Adjustable trim allows you to position your lighting in various ways so you can highlight certain areas of your room or simply personalize its mood.

Features

After choosing the trim best suited for you, you’ll want to make sure your recessed lighting has the features it needs to operate properly, as well as any convenient details you might prefer. Here’s what to look for:

Dimming Options

If you want to adjust the level of light on a gradient, you can go for dimmable lighting. Not every room necessarily needs this, but it can be fantastic in a bedroom or living room.

Sloped Ceiling Housing

If you’re looking to light a room with sloped ceilings, there are recessed lights specifically designed to fit such a ceiling.

Adjusting for the Elements

When you need to light outdoor areas or rooms that are frequently wet, such as bathrooms, make sure to choose the type of recessed lighting that’s designed specifically for these areas.

Recessed Lighting Installation in Montclair, NJ

If you need recessed lighting installation in Montclair, NJ, Anderson Electric can help. Contact us today to learn more.

Holiday Lights and Your Home's Electrical System

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 16:43:11 GMT

Holiday Lights and Your Home's Electrical System

Many homeowners get excited about the thought of putting up their holiday lights. While they are often beautiful displays, ensuring your electrical system can handle the load is crucial. If your electrical system can’t take it, you could be putting your home and family at risk.

You don’t want to miss out on this time-honored tradition because of an overwhelmed system. Fortunately, there are several holiday lights electrical safety tips in Montclair, NJ, that every homeowner can follow to ensure their family remains safe.

Holiday Lights Electrical Safety Tips in Montclair, NJ

Keep your yard merry and bright by following these holiday lighting tips.

Use the Correct Type of Extension Cords

When setting up your outdoor holiday lights, you’ll want to know the extension cord (and lights) can withstand the elements. Use an extension cord rated for outdoor use. These cords have thicker protective coatings to block the wind, cold, and precipitation. Indoor cables are thinner, fray more easily, and pose a risk of electrical shock if used outside. MAKE SURE YOUR OUTDOOR HOLIDAY LIGHTING CORDS AND EXTENSION CORDS ARE PLUGGED INTO GFCI PROTECTED RECEPTACLES.

Thoroughly Inspect Your Lights

You may think you put away your lights in an organized manner after taking them down. However, the lights always get tangled in storage. Inspect each strand of lights to check for loose or frayed wires and broken bulbs. If you find damaged areas, investing in a new set of lights is best.

Damaged Christmas lights are a fire hazard. Purchasing new lights could prevent you from experiencing an electrical fire that damages your property.

Don’t Overload the Circuits

Some homes keep their decorations to a minimum, while others like to light up the night sky with their displays. If you fall into the latter camp, you could be drawing a significant amount of current, causing the electric panel to struggle to keep up and become overloaded.

Overloading the circuits means they have more electricity running through them than they can handle. When this happens, the electrical circuit breaker shuts off power to prevent the circuit's wire from overheating. Consider a panel upgrade to continue having a large holiday light display.

Learn What’s Best for Your Home

The experts from Anderson Electric can provide holiday lights electrical safety tips in Montclair, NJ, and help you understand what your home can handle. Contact us today to ensure your home’s electrical system is equipped to handle your holiday lighting display!

When to Update Your Electrical Panel

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 16:24:49 GMT

When to Update Your Electrical Panel

It isn’t always easy to tell when to replace an electrical panel in northern NJ. However, this knowledge is critical to the safety and reliability of your home. Watch for these signs that you might need a new electrical panel, and don’t hesitate to reach out for a professional opinion.

Updating Outdated Electrical Panels

One of the first things to consider is the age of your electrical panel. Unfortunately, many panels are still in use long after they should be. Realistically, you might expect 25 to 40 years from most panels. However, past that, you’re running a serious safety risk.

If your home has the same panel now that it did when you moved in, you should have a trusted electrician take a look. It could be older than you think. Some older homes may even still have fuse boxes, which are dangerously outdated and require an immediate upgrade.

Renovations and Other Household Upgrades

Your home’s electrical panel has a certain capacity that it can handle. Ideally, it will have been installed with a bit extra at the time of your home’s construction to account for future expansion. However, many homeowners find themselves dealing with limited capacity.

If you’re renovating or installing high-power consumption fixtures such as a new HVAC system or an electric vehicle charger, your electrical panel may not be up to the task. Upgrading can allow for additional capacity, along with more circuits throughout your home.

This prevents the issue of having to pick and choose which appliances you can use at one time without the risk of tripping circuit breakers. You can also take advantage of the new safety features that are standard in modern electrical panels to keep your home even safer.

Find Out When to Replace Electrical Panel in Northern NJ

If your home could use a new electrical panel, then putting off that upgrade could impact both safety and reliability. If you’re unsure when to replace an electrical panel in northern NJ, let the team at Anderson Electric inspect your home’s electrical system. We can provide a variety of options to upgrade or replace your panel. Contact our team today to get started .

3 Things to Love About Whole-House Generators

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 01:04:50 GMT

3 Things to Love About Whole-House Generators

When your home experiences a power outage due to a storm or other external factors, you'll need a temporary supply of power. This can help you meet basic needs and protect perishable food from going bad. While a portable generator might seem handy, there are a few worthwhile advantages to installing a whole-house generator.

1. You'll Have a Reliable Source of Power

A portable generator can only hold so much gasoline or propane. Once you run out of fuel, your generator will stop functioning. This can become a major inconvenience if a power outage lasts for more than a few days.

Conversely, northern NJ whole-house generators use natural gas. Once connected to your gas line, the generator will have a virtually unlimited supply of fuel. You'll have the supplemental power you need for as long as you need it.

2. You Can Use More Power with Northern NJ Whole-House Generators

Imagine you have an unlimited amount of gas or propane. Even in that case, a portable generator can only supply a limited amount of power. This means you won't be able to use large items that draw significant amounts of energy, such as your HVAC system or kitchen appliances.

A whole-house generator can handle most or all of your home's energy needs. This ensures you can still continue to live conveniently while you wait for the restoration of your traditional power supply.

3. You Can Take Better Care of Your Family

As soon as there’s an interruption of power, northern NJ whole-house generators will kick on. This means your family won't get left in the dark as you start up a portable generator. The whole-house unit ensures everyone will remain safe by keeping the lights and other essential services on.

Especially if there are children, disabled individuals, or elderly loved ones in your home, keeping the power on with a whole-house generator can ensure everyone's safety during a power loss.

Back Up Your Energy Needs for Peace of Mind

Anderson Electric Corp. provides the electrical services you need to use energy safely and efficiently. In addition to electrical maintenance, repairs, and upgrades, we can also install a whole-house generator for you. To get started, contact us today.

Do You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade?

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 14:54:09 GMT

Do You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade?

In the modern era, almost everything we do requires electricity. As technology evolves, it's common to introduce more gadgets, devices, and appliances into your home. If you're not upgrading your home's electrical system as well, it won't be long before you encounter problems.

The Wiring in Your Home Is Old

A sure sign that it's time for an electrical panel upgrade in Montclair, NJ, is the presence of fuses. Often, a home that still uses fuses will also have old wiring that's degraded and frayed. In addition to the safety hazards this raises, old fuses and worn wiring can lead to higher energy bills.

Upgrading your system will help your family use energy more safely. Since the upgrade will improve energy efficiency, you'll also see a drop in your monthly bills.

Frequent Power Failures? Get an Electrical Panel Upgrade in Montclair, NJ

Does turning on your hair dryer or dishwasher lead to a tripped circuit? If this repeatedly happens with the same appliance or device, you may have a faulty product. If multiple devices cause power failures at different times, this suggests that you're trying to draw more power than your electrical panel can handle.

Asking your electrician for an upgrade will eliminate these inconveniences. The upgrade will give you the extra power your household needs to operate effectively.

You Notice Unusual Odors or Scorch Marks

You should immediately schedule an electrical panel upgrade in Montclair, NJ, when you notice a burning odor. The smell is often accompanied by black scorch marks around lighting fixtures and outlets.

If you notice these issues, the safe thing to do is turn off your home's power. Burning odors and scorch marks can indicate that there may already be a short in your wiring. Feel the walls for heat. You should also plan to evacuate the property until an electrician performs a thorough inspection.

Get an Electrical Inspection Today

Anderson Electric Corp. provides maintenance, repairs, and electrical upgrades. If you think you need an upgrade, we can inspect your system to determine your home's energy needs. Contact us today to request a free estimate .

Why You Should Consider Installing a Surge Protector

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 15:24:51 GMT

Why You Should Consider Installing a Surge Protector

Are you still going back and forth about investing in a surge protector for your home? Here’s why a surge protector in Montclair, NJ, is not just a good idea but a worthwhile investment for any homeowner.

Protection for Appliances

Large appliances like your dishwasher are necessary for a certain quality of life. Other ones, like your fridge, are mandatory to keep food in your home safely. Both are worth protecting, and that’s what a surge protector does.

Extreme voltages from power surges can easily damage your appliances. Whether you’re protecting expensive gaming equipment or your work computer, it’s all essential to your comfort. A surge protector in Montclair, NJ, can ensure that your convenience goes uninterrupted.

Peace Is Protection

An excellent argument for surge protection is how much it lowers your stress as a homeowner. Worrying about your expensive electronics and appliances whenever you get a weather alert on your phone isn’t fun. Having that extra layer of protection means you'll always be covered, so there are no more “what ifs” to interrupt your day.

Whole-home surge protection is even better in this regard, as you won’t have to pick and choose which electronics you wish to protect.

It’s About More than Just Things

Surge protection is vital to keeping your belongings safe, but it’s also instrumental in your overall electrical safety. Power surges can permanently damage your wiring or outlets , rendering any electrical equipment in your home unusable until it’s fixed. Worse than that, strong power surges can cause electrical fires.

While these problems are relatively rare with the fail-safes in more modern appliances, it’s still not a risk many would be willing to take. The investment you pay up front to install a surge protector is worth what you would pay if the unthinkable occurs.

Safety First: Have a Professional Install a Surge Protector in Montclair, NJ

Have a professional install your new system if you’re ready to commit to surge protection. Anderson Electric Corp. is a safe, fast, and efficient team of electricians with years of experience helping homeowners get the peace of mind they need. Contact us today to learn more about our services .

Is Your Generator in Good Shape?

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 19:15:56 GMT

Is Your Generator in Good Shape?

A generator is a great emergency power supply when you lose other energy sources. To ensure your generator will be there when you need it, occasionally check the indicator light to make sure it is in Green and ready to run as opposed to a Red indicator which means there is a fault or problem which will keep it from running when you need it.

Make sure you do the following if you suspect any issues.

Make Sure It Can Consistently Start

There are some simple reasons your generator might fail to start, such as low fuel or oil. A poor battery might also be a simple cause of the problem. If you suspect any of these issues there may be electrical or mechanical problem. You’ll need a qualified electrician / Generator technician to check the Generator and diagnose the underlying problem before you lose power and to ensure your Generator runs when you need it most.

Have an Electrician Check for the Cause of Poor Power Flow

You’ll need professional generator maintenance in Montclair, NJ, if you notice your generator is providing insufficient power. Some causes of poor power include a Generator which has not been maintained or an insufficient fuel supply. These issues relate to the unit’s smooth operation, so you will need a qualified Technician to correct the problem.

Get a Leak Diagnosed Right Away

A generator motor runs similar to any type of motor in that it relies on lubricant, coolant, and fuel. Over time, a cracked hose or a faulty gasket can lead to a leak. Look for fluids collecting around the generator, and if you see one, contact Anderson Electric Corp. for a checkup.Our Certified technicians will know how to check the hoses and gaskets for leaks.

Watch for Signs of Physical Damage

Good generator maintenance in Montclair, NJ, includes watching for physical signs of damage. If something hits your generator or falls on top of it, the unit might suffer damage. In some cases, the damage might be superficial. However, a technician can determine whether any interior components suffered harm in the incident.

We Provide Full Generator Care and Maintenance

We provide electrical services that include maintenance and repairs for your home’s

Tips to Avoid Overloading Circuits | Anderson Electric Corp.

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 15:00:00 GMT

Thankfully, there ways to prevent overloading circuits. You may have to do a bit of detective work in your house. You may also need the service of an electrician in Caldwell, NJ to upgrade part of the electrical system of your house. We’ll go through what you can do to prevent this problem.

The Cause of Overloads

An overload is what happens when the electrical demand placed on the circuit is more than its “load,” i.e. what it can handle. The overload triggers the circuit breaker to cut off this excess electrical demand and prevent damage. This can happen because an appliance that was too powerful was plugged into a circuit not rated for it. More often, an overload happens because too many items were plugged into a single circuit. (The circuit doesn’t mean a single outlet. Multiple outlets are often on the same circuit, along with hardwired appliances and lights.)

Replace Damaged Appliances

If you have an appliance that has a frayed cable or has lost insulation on its power cable, replace it immediately. The malfunction is probably what triggered the circuit overload.

Avoid Using Extension Cords

At best, an extension cord is a temporary solution done during a project. We don’t recommend using extension cords for extended periods because they can allow too many items to be plugged into a single circuit and overload it. (Plus, they’re tripping hazards.) If you need more outlets, please call our electricians and we can safely install new ones.

Space Out Kitchen Outlet Use

The kitchen is a prime spot for overloading circuits because of the number of different appliances that can plugged in here—and the potential for an electrical appliance falling into water. Try to space out the appliances in the kitchen so they make the best use of the available outlets and don’t crowd onto one. And there’s always the option to put in more outlets.

Label the Circuit Breaker Panel

It’s helpful to know which circuit breakers control which circuits in the home. If you don’t have labels next to each circuit, we recommend you doing this. Have someone else in the house watch for what lights and appliances shut off as you test each breaker so you can label them. You can learn where you shouldn’t be plugging in too many appliances.

Upgrade the Fuse Box or Old Circuit Breaker

If you live in an older house, the trouble may be with an old circuit breaker panel that can’t handle the current electrical demands. Or the home still uses a fuse box. You should arrange to have a fuse box replaced. If you’re unsure about your breaker panel, call one of our electricians to inspect it.

SAFETY – DEPENDABILITY – SERVICE. Call Anderson Electric Corp. when you need rewiring, new panel installation, or other electrical services.

Are Three-Prong Adapters Safe?

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 16:00:00 GMT

What can you do when you have a three-pronged plug you need to connect to power, but the outlet doesn’t have the third slot? This is where most people turn to a three-prong adapter, which fits into the outlet and allows the three-pronged plug to then fit into it. These adapted are sometimes called “cheaters.” They aren’t making the outlet grounded, they’re just rerouting the power to allow the plug to work in the older outlet.

Is this safe to do?

Three-prong adapters present several problems

First, if you’re asking the question because the two-prong outlets are in your house, what you need to do is put away those adapters and call our electricians for an upgrade on your electrical system. Your house probably has antiquated wiring and an older fuse box along with an ungrounded electrical system. We can replace the old outlets with grounded ones as well as GFCI and AFCI outlets that improve household safety. Start with an electrical inspection: our electricians will find out what needs to be replaced for a home that is safe and makes the best use of electricity.

As for using that adapter right now… the issue of safety has more to do with the appliance you want to plug into that adapter than the adapter itself. An old two-slot outlet may have cloth-insulated wiring connected to it, and these wires are not rated for the amperage needed to power modern appliances. When you plug in an appliance with a greater amperage than this, the three-prong adapter creates a risk. In general, we don’t recommend you plug any large appliance (refrigerator, window AC, monitor) into a three-pronged adapter.

If the electrical panel in the house is grounded, the outlets may be grounded through the center screw. In this case, you can use a three-prong adapter with the outlet, provided the adapter also a has a screw tab on it that contacts the screw on the outlet. An adapter used on grounded outlets is usually safe, but it’s not a long-term solution—and you shouldn’t plug in power strips to the adapter to attempt to expand electrical use. If the outlet isn’t grounded, or you aren’t sure if it is, don’t use the adapter at all.

Your homeowner’s insurance may not cover electrical fires caused by a three-pronged adapter, so that’s something else to look into. But on the whole, you’re just better off with calling us to upgrade the system.

Call us when you need a great electrician in West Orange, NJ or elsewhere in Northern Jersey. We handle all types of electrical upgrades: panel replacements, knob and tube elimination, AFCI and GFCI outlet installation, and much more.

Anderson Electric Corp. is you Montclair, NJ electrician. Call us today to schedule electrical upgrade services. We offer free estimates.

Lights Went Out But Circuit Breaker Didn't Trip? | Electric Repair

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 16:00:00 GMT

“Wait, how is that a problem?” you ask. It’s a problem if you have a sudden loss of power in the house—such as the lights going out—and the circuit breaker for those appliances and outlets hasn’t tripped. The most common solution for losing the lights is a tripped breaker, and in most cases resetting the breaker is all you need to do. (And if they keep tripping, see the post linked above.)

We’re going to look at what might cause your lights to go out (or start to flicker) that isn’t a tripped circuit breaker or a single burnt-out light bulb.

A different type of breaker tripped

The circuit breakers in your electrical panel are not the only breakers in your house. There may be local ones that can affect your lights. Two in particular:

Bad wiring

This covers a wide amount of ground, and can include loose wiring connections or frayed wiring. It’s more common for older electrical systems. The wiring in the outlets can have fallen from loose screws—this is a common problem, and we recommend you allow an electrician to handle the repairs so you won’t have electric shock dangers. Frayed wiring and other loose wires elsewhere will also need the repair assistance of a professional electrician since they are a frequent cause of house fires. Please shut off the circuit breaker for these lights and call for assistance.

House voltage needs to be upgraded

Failed lights or flickering lights can be a warning that your home needs to have its voltage upgraded to current standards. This is a job our electricians can handle—they’ll assess your home’s current system and find the best way to upgrade it.

For the electrical repair in Montclair, NJ and throughout Northern Jersey that will fix any lighting, wiring, or electrical panel issues, you can trust our electricians. Remember that attempting DIY work on your electrical system can be extremely dangerous. Don’t take chances. Go to the trusted professionals.

Anderson Electric Corp. has been your local electrician for over 25 years. Call us for any electrical repairs you need.

How a Generator Is Sized for a Home

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 16:00:00 GMT

But once you decide about installing a generator, what’s the next step? Generators come in different “sizes,” meaning how much voltage they supply to a home. You need a generator large enough to meet your needs, but not so large it causes damage or electrical shorts.

A Generator Must Be Sized Professionally

The first step is the easiest step. You call our electricians and ask about a new whole-house generator. We’re experienced with the task of matching generators to homes and working with customers to find out exactly what needs power in case of a blackout.

We’ll go through the standard steps of sizing a generator to give you an idea of the process.

First, how big is your house?

Although the square footage of a house isn’t an absolute when it comes to electrical power, it’s the best starting place for finding out how much power a generator must supply. After all, the bigger the home, the more appliances, and lights it will have, and our electricians will have a basic minimum size starting point. House size helps most with determining how to keep the lights on.

Now, how powerful is the HVAC system?

Maintaining comfort during heat waves and the deepest winter cold is a primary reason to have a generator in the first place, and you’ll almost certainly want enough power to run the air conditioner and to power the electrical components of a gas furnace. (Yes, a gas furnace does need electrical power to operate.) The AC’s size is usually the most important factor: the cooling tonnage (from 2 to 5 tons in most homes) is an essential part of accurately sizing a generator.

What else do you want powered?

Now we get to the part where you’ll most appreciate having professionals on the job. You’ll need to make choices about what appliances and systems in your house are most important to keep powered during an outage. You’ll start with thinking about essentials: medical equipment, the water heater (gas and electric have different requirements), the refrigerator, the sump pump.

Next, are the appliances. How much of your kitchen do you need in service during a blackout? Gas stoves usually have no need for electricity. Do you need to use the microwave? What about the dishwasher? In other parts of the house, you’ll have to consider the laundry machines and the garage door opener.

Finally, you have what might be considered “non-essentials,” but which may be important to you. This includes the Wi-Fi, computers, the security system, television monitors, even a pool heater.

Once our technicians have this data, they can calculate out how much voltage your future generator needs to supply to keep your family safe and happy in the event of a loss of electricity.

SAFETY · DEPENDABILITY · SERVICE: Call Anderson Electric Corp. for generator installation and other generator services in Northern Jersey.

Major Home Electrical Hazards to Watch For

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 15:00:00 GMT

Below is a list of common electrical hazards in your house and how you can avoid them:

Wiring and cords in bad shape

This applies both to wires you can and cannot see. We recommend checking on all exposed wiring and cords in your home to see if any are brittle, fraying, or worn. Loss of insulation around wiring and cords is a quick way to create fire hazards. For older wiring, you’ll need an electrician on the job. Watch for signs of discoloration on walls, outlets, and switches that can warn of bad wiring.

Hiding cords and wiring

You probably understand that leaving cords and wires out on the floor is a tripping hazard. But the answer isn’t to run these wires and cords under rugs and furniture. When these wires heat up, they may create fires. Ask for an electrician to handle the wiring to keep it hidden and safe.

Unsafe outlets in the bathroom and kitchen

Water is a huge danger with electricity, and you probably already know this. This makes electrical appliances in the bathroom and kitchen potential hazards. To increase safety in these rooms, have electricians replaced older outlets with GFCI outlets (they have dual buttons between the two outlets). These outlets are designed to cut off power to anything plugged into them if electricity begins to flow into the ground—i.e. through a person.

Water on an electrical fire

When an electrical fire starts, your first instinct may be to throw water on it. This may not work and might even make the fire larger as the electricity uses the water as a conduit. Make sure you know where the fire extinguisher is and how to use it. The foam from the extinguisher will safely put out the fire.

Extension cords

Thankfully, extension cords aren’t used as much as they once were because new homes have a larger number of outlets. They are major contributors to house fires and can easily overload outlets. (Plus there’s that tripping hazard again.) If you’re still trapped using extension cords in your house, arrange with our electricians to put in extra outlets.

Wet hands

It’s easy to forget that you should never handle electrical appliances or plug anything into a wall socket when you have wet hands. Wet hands are one of the top causes for high voltage shocks in a home.

We can’t stress this enough: when you need assistance with your home’s electrical system, don’t attempt to do the work yourself. This is the biggest electrical hazard of all. Please call our electricians and let them do the work safely and correctly.

Anderson Electric Corp is your trusted electrician service in Northern Jersey. Reach out to us for electrical repairs for your home.

Are Fuse Boxes Dangerous?

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 15:00:00 GMT

They can also be safety hazards.

If you know you have a fuse box in your house, you may have asked yourself if it’s creating a dangerous situation. We won’t be alarmist, but fuse boxes are certainly less safe than an updated electrical panel. We recommend all homes with fuse boxes arrange for electric panel services in Montclair, NJ to have updated breaker panels installed to replace the fuse boxes. It’s better for electrical power in the house—and safer as well.

The Troubles With Fuse Boxes

The purpose of fuse boxes and breaker panels is to divide incoming current into different circuits. Both contain safeguards to shut off voltage in case of excess electricity—the breaker panel by tripping a breaker, the fuse box by burning through a fuse.

Unfortunately, fuse boxes do not have the reliability of performance breaker panel do. (And they’re not the only type of older, potentially unsafe electrical panels. We advise having your panel checked by professionals if your home was built before 1990.)

Again, we don’t want this to sound panicky, because a fuse box isn’t automatically unsafe. The trouble is that most fuse boxes have been modified to adapt to large electrical demands—and this often makes them dangerous. In cases of unlicensed modifications, a fuse box can be a major hazard. ( Never attempt repairs or modification to parts of the electrical system yourself!)

The big problem for modified fuse boxes is larger fuses put in to handle the electrical load. Small fuses may blow, but putting in a much bigger fuse is a fire hazard. The circuit itself isn’t rated for more power, so if there’s a 20-amp fuse on a 15-amp rate circuit, it can be dangerous.

Then there are the terrible patchwork fixes. We’ve seen plenty of these, and you may have them in your fuse box and not know it because the previous owner put them in. Adding metal objects to replace fuses and handle more electricity circumvents the safety precautions. One of the worst “fixes” you may have in your fuse box is the copper penny. A frustrated homeowner who encountered too many outages may have run out of fuses and put a penny in the box because the copper coin won’t burn out. But now the wiring is in danger of burning out, because the point of the fuse box—stopping excess voltage flow—is defeated.

You probably feel tempted now to run to the fuse box to see if anybody jammed a penny in there. That’s a good thought, but the best route is to call our electricians to arrange to replace the entire fuse box as soon as possible. We’ll not only eliminate this safety hazard, we’ll update your household’s electrical system for the twenty-first century.

SAFETY, DEPENDABILITY, SERVICE: Anderson Electric Corp. serves Northern Jersey. Call for electrical panel replacement.

Does Your Home Need Rewiring? | Anderson Electric in NJ

Mon, 02 Sep 2019 15:00:00 GMT

You may need to call an electrician in Nutley, NJ to extensively rewire your house to improve its safety. Below we’ve listed some of the ways to tell that you may need rewiring. Pay close attention, since a proper rewiring reduces significantly the chance of a house fire.

Have an electrician inspect the house

We’ll start with the shortcut to finding out if you need the house rewired. When you call a licensed electrician for an inspection, you’ll receive an expert answer about the condition of the wiring in your house and if it needs to be upgraded. Even if the wiring is still in good shape and not a significant danger, an inspection may still locate smaller problem areas in the wiring, outlets, etc. We recommend home wiring inspections every few years.

The age of the house

The simplest gauge of the condition of a house’s wiring is how long the house has been around. In general, a home that’s older than 50 years that’s never had any rewiring done is due for it. There are many homes of this vintage—and far older—in Northern Jersey. In fact, many homes still have antiquated knob-and-tube wiring. We’re a specialist in replacing this hazardous type of wiring.

The circuit breaker trips often

You shouldn’t have to make regular trips to the home’s electrical panel to reset tripped breakers. When this is a frequent problem, it warns that the wiring is struggling with the current electrical load. Even if your house doesn’t need to be rewired, have an electrician investigate the continually tripping breaker to find out if there is another repair need somewhere in the house.

The house has knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring

We’ve already mentioned knob-and-tube wiring, which is easy to visually identify because of the distinctive porcelain knobs use to hold up the wires. Aluminum wires were installed between 1965 and 1973, and because their connections can fail and start fires, they are considered hazards. If your home was constructed between those years, check to see if there is an “AL” on the wiring insulation—this means the wiring is aluminum.

Burning smells around the house

An acrid odor you can’t trace? Don’t ignore it! This electrical burning smell is warning that there are shorts in the electrical system. Check the outlets and light switches in the house to see if there is any discoloration along them, indicating an electrical fire behind the plate. If you don’t see anything, then the shorts may be happening in the walls. Either way, have an electrician into your house to examine the problem and see if you need rewiring.

You can trust us with this big, important job: we have more than 20 years of experience upgrading local homes to the highest safety levels.

Anderson Electric Corp. serves Northern Jersey. Call us for a free estimate. Safety–Dependability–Service.

Electrical Repair for Broken Outlets | Anderson Electric

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 15:00:00 GMT

How Can I Tell I Have Broken Outlets?

The obvious answer would seem to be: “when the outlet doesn’t provide electrical power.” But there are other warnings signs you can watch for that are not as obvious, and catching them early helps with safety.

In all these situations, we advise you to go to the electrical panel for the house and flip the breaker for the suspect outlet. This cuts off electricity to the outlet so it won’t have a chance to create hazards. Then get on the phone with our electrician to schedule repair work. Never attempt to fix the outlet on your own by unscrewing the cover and poking around with tools! Even with the power cut off, you may accidentally create a fire hazard with an amateur repair attempt.

Anderson Electric Corp. is your local electrician for over 25 years. Schedule service to repair or replace outlets.

How Automatic Standby Generators Work - Anderson Electric

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 15:00:00 GMT

We recommend all homeowners consider having a generator installation—they can be literal lifesavers! And the type of generator we recommend the highest are automatic standby generators. These units take away almost all the work involved in running them and provide extra peace of mind. As soon as there’s a power loss to a home, an automatic standby generator turns itself on to supply the lost electrical voltage. There’s no need to go out in a storm or a freezing night to fumble with getting the generator started.

How This Works

If you’re considering an installation of a whole-house generator, you might be interested to know how a generator can automatically activate when there’s a blackout.

The key component in an automatic generator is the automatic transfer switch . Although the generator is connected into the household electrical system, it is kept entirely isolated from it and from the utility lines by the transfer switch—at least, until the generator is needed. There’s a good reason for this isolation: if the generator turns on accidentally, it can send extra voltage into the house or utility lines and cause electrical hazards.

The transfer switch selects whether the house uses utility power (i.e. standard electrical power from the grid) or power from the generator. When the switch is set to utility power, it monitors the electricity entering the house. Should this power go out because of a blackout, the switch automatically activates to cut off the house’s electrical system from the grid, although it doesn’t immediately make the switch to generator power. First, the switch activates the generator controller, which is the hub of the generator that manages powering the system up and down and monitoring its functions. (In some units, the controller also monitors the voltage from the grid and detects when power goes down, rather than leaving this job to the transfer switch.) The controller activates the combustion engine of the generator. It takes a few seconds for the controller to stabilize the speed of the engine and the output of electricity. Once this occurs, the controller signals the automatic transfer switch to shift over to generator mode and allow electricity into the house. The switchover process takes about a minute.

Keep Your Generator Working Automatically!

Like any mechanical device, a generator can suffer from malfunctions. To ensure that the automatic standby generator serving your home is prepared to turn on when you need it, always schedule routine maintenance service for it from our professionals. These regular inspections will help us catch when you need generator repair in Wayne, NJ . You don’t want to learn you need repairs when you actually need that transfer switch to disconnect your house from the grid and switch to generator power!

Anderson Electric Corp. serves Northern Jersey. Request a free estimate today.

Should You Be Worried About Flickering Lights? Find Out Here

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 15:00:00 GMT

On the other hand, flickering lights can warn that there are bigger electrical faults in the house, some potentially dangerous. These problems absolutely require a professional electrician to repair. Never attempt to do any wiring or panel repair on your own, since it can create larger fire hazards and a high danger of electrical shocks.

The “No Sweat” Flickering Light Problems

We’ll start with some of the basic troubles that may cause flickering lights. You may or may not need to call for repairs for these, but you also don’t need to worry about your safety. (If you aren’t sure, call an electrician to check on what’s happening.)

The “Time to Worry” Flickering Light Problems

We don’t want you to worry for too long, however! If you think there may be a serious electrical issue behind the flickering lights, shut off the power at the electrical box and call for an electrician in Livingston, NJ . You can count on our licensed electricians to provide the best service.

Anderson Electric Corp. serves Northern Jersey. Call us today for a free estimate!

Difference Between Fuse Box & Breaker Panel | Anderson Electric

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 15:00:00 GMT

This brings us to the central hub of a home’s electrical system. The fuse box. Or the breaker panel. We see both in homes and we want to go into more detail about the differences—and why we recommend upgrading to a breaker panel if you have a fuse box.

The Fuse Box

The fuse box and breaker panel do the same job: to divide the incoming electricity into the different circuits of house, and to cut off electricity in case of excess voltage.

In a fuse box, each circuit runs through a metal filament—the fuse itself. The filament melts if it overheats, which cuts off electrical flow. This is the famous “blown fuse.” To restore the circuit, a new fuse must be put in.

Although an effective way to prevent electric fires, fuse boxes have some major drawbacks that have caused them to be replaced with breaker panels. First, they aren’t convenient, since a homeowner has to put in new fuses each time one burns out. Second, they don’t work with modern outlets like GFCIs. Third, in order to handle the higher electrical demands of modern homes, larger and larger fuses are necessary—and this can lead to creating its own fire hazard.

The Breaker Panel

A breaker panel has a different way of cutting off electricity in case of overheating. It uses either a bimetal strip or solenoid to trip a switch and cut off the circuit. All it takes to restore electricity is to flip the switch back.

Breaker panels are much more convenient—no need to buy new fuses and keep replacing them. This feature is especially useful if a circuit trips at night since it means no fumbling with fuses in the dark. They allow for GFCI outlets and more electrical devices in a home than a fuse box (or at least a fuse box that isn’t overloaded with fuses that are too large). Aside from being generally safer, breaker panels allow for a home to fully upgrade to modern electrical demands.

Upgrading Your Home Electrical System

If you have a fuse box for your house, we recommend calling our electricians to have it replaced. This may also require making other changes (such as some rewiring) to the house. We advise replacing two-pronged outlets as well—we can ground your house with the new circuit breaker panel—and have GFCI and AFCI outlets installed in specific rooms where they increase safety. You can also have a whole-house surge protector installed along with the breaker panel, providing a higher level of protection to your home’s electrical system.

Anderson Electric Corp. serves Northern Jersey—your local electrician for 25 years. Call today for a free estimate.

Why Light Bulbs Burn Out Fast? | Anderson Electric Corp.

Mon, 20 May 2019 15:00:00 GMT

You can expect to change the standard incandescent light bulbs in your house every 2–3 years depending on how often they’re used. Most of these bulbs can burn for around 900 hours. LED light bulbs can last for much longer, sometimes only needing to be changed every 8–11 years. But no light bulb will last forever.

But what if the light bulbs in your house are burning out far sooner than they should? Such as maybe less than a year, or lasting only a few months. You might have problems with the bulbs, the fixtures, or even your home’s electrical system. We’ll go over some of the reasons for short-living light bulbs below and what you can do about them.

The wrong bulbs

One of the first things you should check on if you’re noticing bulbs burning out before their time is that you’re putting improper bulbs into the sockets. Check the socket for the wattage. And yes, a bulb with a larger wattage capacity than the socket is as bad as one that’s lower wattage, because it creates additional heat that will make the filaments wear down faster.

Excessive voltage in the house

If the problem with bulbs burning out rapidly is happening all around your house at many different types of fixtures, then you may have a supply voltage in your home that’s too high. We recommend calling for an electrician to measure the voltage in your house. If an electrician discovers that the voltage is more than 125 volts, then it’s too high. This isn’t just bad for your bulbs, it’s bad for appliances all around the house. You can ask your electrical pro for recommendations on what to do about this.

Problems with a recessed socket

Recessed light sockets are good choices for many homes, since they help save space and create a smooth and clean look to a room. But recessed sockets that extend into the attic can be in danger of overheating because of the insulation in the attic. When the socket overheats, it will often lead to a flickering light and an early light bulb burnout. This is a serious issue because an overheating recessed socket is a fire hazard. Call a professional electrician to examine the socket and find if it needs repairs or needs to be removed.

Shaking fixtures

This is a problem that occurs most often in the lights in ceiling fans. A ceiling fan needs to be installed securely in place, or else it will vibrate when it operates. This can damage the ceiling (even causing the fan to fall from place) but it can also shake the filament in the light bulb and cause it to fail early. The fixture will need to be repaired or replaced to solve this.

Along with lights burning out early, also watch out for tripped circuit breakers, which warns of wiring problems that are leading to short circuits.

You’ll need experienced and licensed electricians in Wayne, NJ to handle any jobs requiring work on wiring or light sockets. Amateur work creates a risk of a high voltage shock and electrical fires—only trust a professional electrician to solve problems.

Anderson Electric Corp. is your trusted electrician. Call us for electrical solutions of any kind.

Child-Proof Outlets for Home Safety | Anderson Electric

Mon, 06 May 2019 15:00:00 GMT

Today, we’re looking at a specific reason for improving the outlets in your house—to make your house safer for young children. Standard open outlets can present serious hazards to children who may attempt to place objects or their fingers into the slots, and they can also create fire dangers. Most outlets are at ground level, making them easy for children to access. If you have infants and toddlers in your home, or you have a child on the way, we recommend you work with electricians in Livingston, NJ to have the safest types of outlets installed.

Below are some of safety options available.

Outlet Covers

This is the simplest method to child-proof outlets: plastic covers that insert into the outlet to block them. These covers aren’t the best solution, especially if there are other benefits to upgrading your outlets. These covers are inconvenient, easy to lose, and toddler can often learn how to pry them off.

Tamper-Resistant Receptacles (TRR)

This is one of the easier upgrades to make to your current outlets. A tamper-resistant receptacles outlet resembles a standard three-prong outlet. However, the outlet opening have shutters over them that prevent anything from being inserted in them, unless equal pressure is applied to all three outlets at the same time. I.e. with a plug. TRR outlets can be combined with AFCI and GFCI technology for extra protection.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

We looked at these outlets in the last post. They’re highly recommended for installation in the bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms of all homes, not just ones with infants and children. GFCI outlets monitor the flow of electricity from the hot side of the outlet to the neutral side. If there is an imbalance—meaning the electricity is flowing into the ground, probably through a person—the outlet immediately trips a fuse and stop the voltage flow to prevent electrocution.

Rotating Outlets

You may have already seen these types of outlets on power strips. The fronts of these outlets automatically rotate by 45° when there’s no plug in them, blocking the actual slots. To put in a plug, the prongs must first be inserted and then used to rotate the outside cover until it aligns with the slots. As with tamper-resistant receptacles, the cover prevents children from putting their fingers or small objects into the slots.

Combination Switch Outlet

Some outlets can have the electricity shut off to them by a nearby light switch. Essentially, the switch is the circuit breaker for the outlet. There are outlets that have the switch already built into them, which is convenient for shutting off power to specific outlets when they are not in use.

Whatever type of outlet you’re looking for, make sure you only work with a licensed electrician. Our electricians will see you have the best and safest possible upgrades.

Anderson Electric Corp. is your trusted electrician in Northern New Jersey. Call for a free estimate.

Replace Two-Prong Outlets for Safety | Anderson Electric

Mon, 22 Apr 2019 15:00:00 GMT

One of the upgrades we recommend is replacing standard three-prong outlets with GFCI and AFCI outlets, which improve safety. But let’s go one step lower and take a look at two-prong outlets, which many homes in the area still have. (Two-prong is standard for homes built before 1960.) You can stick adaptors onto them so they work for three-prong plugs, but we don’t recommend this. We’ll explain why it’s best to change out those old two-prongers.

Two-Prong Outlets Are Not Grounded

This is the big difference between two-prong and three-prong. A three-prong outlet adds a third wire to the “hot” and “neutral” wires that grounds the outlet.

What does it mean to be “grounded?” It means that if there is too much electricity send to the outlet, the excess electricity has somewhere to go. The third wire is there to take any excess electricity and drive it down into the ground outside your house. This is why adaptors plugged into two-prong outlets are not recommend: they do nothing to ground the old outlet.

You can probably already guess why it’s important to have grounding. Excess electricity that doesn’t have a quick exit route into the ground will seek somewhere else to go. This might be through a person, causing a high voltage shock. It might be through building material, potentially causing an electrical fire. Or it may try to move through the electrical system or the appliance attached to it, causing severe damage to either.

Experts Can Change Your Home to a Grounded One

If all the outlets in your home are two-prong, then it probably means your whole house is ungrounded and doesn’t have a wire to drive excess voltage into the ground. You can’t upgrade your two-prong outlets on your own by purchasing three-prong fixtures and then screwing them into place. There needs to be bigger changes to the electrical system to support the new outlets, and only a professional electrician is qualified and licensed to do this job. You don’t want bigger dangers of electrical fires or a code violation!

To ground a house and install three-prong outlets, the electrician will attach a ground wire to your main electrical panel (and you may also need the panel upgraded) and then run a ground wire to each of the outlets. Depending on your house size, the electrician may need to install more than one ground wire.

When you schedule this job, your electrician will also offer to put in GFCI and AFCI outlets in the appropriate rooms. By all means, let the electrician do this. Going to a grounded house with three-prong outlets is a great step, but the extra protection from high voltage shocks these newer outlets offer is tremendously valuable.

You can rely on our licensed experts for electrical upgrades and electrical repair in West Orange, NJ . We have extensive experience with working on older homes.

Anderson Electric Corp. serves Northern New Jersey. Find out more about upgrading your home’s electrical system from our licensed professionals.

Upgrade to LED Lights and Save on Your Utility Bills

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 15:00:00 GMT

LED (light-emitting diode) lights do cost more to have installed than standard incandescent lights, however. This causes some people to balk at making the upgrade. Are LED lights actually worth the initial cost of the upgrade?

The simple answer is “Yes!” Although LED lights may not be the ultimate solution for lowering your energy bills, they have many benefits to offer and will pay back their increased costs many times over. Below we’ve listed some of the reasons why working with an electrician in Nutley, NJ to switch to LED lights is worthwhile.

They last much longer than standard lights

How often do you have to change the lightbulbs in your lamps? Probably every few years, sometimes every year. An LED light can last for 50,000 operating hours, which is around 2 to 4 times longer than standard incandescent lights. The average lifespan for an LED light is around 11 years—your initial investment in the light goes a long way.

They consume less energy

This is the big reason people are interested in LED lights—they simply are more efficient at turning electrical power into illumination than incandescent bulbs. On average, if our electricians provide a complete retrofit of your house with LED lights, the drop in electrical consumption from lighting can be as much as 75%. There are even situations (such as where you have lights that are on 24 hours a day, like outdoor footlights) when the savings can be up to 90%.

They produce no heat

You know when you put your hand near a standard incandescent bulb that you feel heat from it. This heat radiating into a home can be unpleasant during warmer weather and puts more stress on the HVAC system, and it can cause the house to overheat during cold weather. LED lights don’t give off heat, removing this hassle and source of energy waste. Another benefit of this is safety, which is often overlooked in the list of LED light benefits.

They are flexible for retrofits

LED lights are small and come in almost any design you might imagine. If you want to arrange for an extensive retrofit for your house that redesigns much of the indoor and outdoor lighting, LED lights give you more options than other types of lights.

They are beneficial for the environment

Switching to LED lights will make the environment much happier. LED lights don’t contain any mercury that will get into landfills when the lights are thrown out. They also won’t clog up the landfills as fast because the average light is equivalent to 3 to 4 standard bulbs that get tossed into the trash. The general energy savings of LED lights also helps the environment by reducing the demand on power plants.

Schedule an appointment with our electricians to learn how we can upgrade your household lighting for energy savings and more.

Anderson Electric Corp is your trusted electrician in Northern New Jersey. Ask about making lighting upgrades for your home.

Lower Your Electric Bills - Anderson Electric Corp.

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 15:00:00 GMT

Almost any homeowner wants to cut down on how much they pay for electricity each month. All the simple methods, like remembering to turn off lights in unused rooms and unplugging appliances that aren’t in use, can help. But they can only help so far. Our electricians can help you take larger steps toward saving electricity in your home.

Replace old lights with LED lights

This is one of the easiest ways to significantly drop household electrical use. Compared to standard incandescent lights, LED (light emitting diode) lights use only a fraction of the electrical power. They have other advantages, such as extended life (the average LED light can last for 11 years ) and no heat generation (which helps cut down on AC bills). Our technicians can perform an LED upgrade for both your indoor and outdoor lighting.

Replace old energy-wasting appliances

Homeowners try to keep appliances working for as long as possible so they can get the best return on investment in them. We understand—who wants to pay to replace a dishwasher, refrigerator, or laundry machine when the current one is still doing the job? But old appliances can be huge drains on electrical power. If you have major appliances in your home that don’t have the ENERGY STAR label from the Department of Power, we recommend you have new ones installed. There may even be government incentives available for replacing them.

Installing dimmer switches

Here’s another way you can change your home lighting and cut down on electric use. A dimmer switch lets you lower illumination when you don’t need as much light. Even without the electrical savings, dimmer switches are good ideas because they create a more pleasant indoor environment.

Set up a smart home

What’s a “smart home”? It’s a big step in home automation that can completely change how your house uses energy as well as how you live—and all for the better. With smart home controls, your house will have a central panel that monitors and controls lights, the HVAC system, security system, etc. You can provide the settings, but the smart controls can develop their own programs to maximize energy use and take care of tasks when you’re away from home.

Our electricians can set up a smart home system customized for your needs and budget. You don’t need all electrical systems connected to the controls, only the ones you think are important. Our electricians will help you make choices, and they install the finest brands in climate and home automation: the Samsung Smart Things Hub, Leviton Controls, Alexa, and Nest products.

And more…

There are other ways we can help make your home an electric saver. Feel free to call us to discuss the options!

Anderson Electric Corp. is the trusted electrician for Northern New Jersey. Call for a free estimate.

Reasons to Consider a Whole House Generator - Anderson Electric

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 15:00:00 GMT

Okay, easy enough to say—but what about the specifics? What are the best reasons to have an automatic standby generator installed?

Protect family members who depend on powered medical equipment

First thing to ask yourself: “Are there any people in my house whose livelihood depends on an electrically-powered medical device?” If so, then a generator is an absolute must. Even a smaller generator designed to handle only a few devices will be a life-saver, since you can arrange to ensure power goes to the medical equipment.

Power outages are happening more often

It’s an unfortunate fact of life, but the states on the Eastern Seaboard have been running into more blackouts than before, often during extreme weather, which is one of the common causes for outages. Aging electrical grids are leading to more power outages as well. There’s never been as high a need for generator backups than now.

A generator can protect your house in ways you haven’t thought of

Loss of power can cause extensive damage to a house, particularly during periods of high rain or freezing temperatures. A sump pump can’t work without electricity, and this can allow large amounts of water damage. Freezing pipes will burst, and general low temperature indoors when the heater goes out can cause damage in many other parts of the house. A generator can keep away numerous expensive repairs.

And although it may not be as urgent a problem, a loss of power to your house means the food in your refrigerator and freezer will rapidly spoil.

Keeping your family comfortable

Whether in a heat wave or a deep freeze, you’ll need electrical power to your house to keep the heater or AC running. (Yes, this includes gas-powered heaters. They still need vital components powered with electricity in order to run.) If your HVAC system gives out on you during extreme heat or cold, you may have to pay money for a hotel room to keep your family safe until the local power is restored.

You can keep your normal life going

A power loss can bring everything in your life to an abrupt halt. You can’t use computers, the television, cook, and many other basic parts of day-to-day life. If you work from home, losing your electronic devices can be devastating and may even cause data loss.

To get started with finding the ideal generator to serve you, make an appointment with our technicians. We not only install new automatic standby generators, we also offer the generator repair in Wayne, NJ that will ensure the generator is there for you when you need it.

Anderson Electric Corp. serves Northern New Jersey. Find out more about our generator services.

Surge Protector vs Power Strip: What's the Difference?

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 16:00:00 GMT

The Power Strip

Power strips are a basic part of homes and offices today. With more electronic devices needing power than ever before, the basic outlets that only allow two appliances to be plugged in aren’t enough. A power strip extends how many appliances you can plug into one outlet, and does it without the potential danger of the old “octopus” outlet extenders. Those simple devices could create fire hazards when overwhelmed. A power strip is designed to send power to more appliances but takes away the fire hazard with its own circuit breaker. If the power demand becomes too much, the circuit will switch off to prevent sparking or an electrical fire.

We recommend most outlets that must power a computer station, an entertainment center, or multiple lamps use power strips. But, these strips are not defending these appliances from a power surge—they’re protecting the outlet from fire hazards.

The Surge Protector

The standard surge protector you can purchase commercially can handle a large number of outlets and has a defense to prevent a voltage surge from passing through the outlets. This is valuable for precision electronics which can be damaged by surges. However, these store-bought commercial surge protectors have limited use, and many are really only a power strip with an extra feature.

The best surge protection isn’t the kind you plug into the wall. It’s the kind an electrician installs into the electrical panel. This is whole-house surge protection , and we strongly advise homeowners look into having one installed.

As the name indicates, this device protects every single outlet. It also protects the electrical system in general. A whole-house surge protector routes any voltage surge into the ground, safely away from the household electrical system. Unlike individual outlet surge protectors, a whole-house surge protector can handle much higher amounts of voltage. For example, a lightning strike, a downed power line, or a failure at a power station. These are the most common example of sources for massive voltage strikes. These can overcome smaller surge protectors and damage electronics.

Whole-house surge protectors are also effective at stopping the tinier surges that often go unnoticed, such as when a powerful appliance like an AC comes on. Over time, these mini-surges can damage sensitive equipment—unless whole-house surge protection is in place.

To find out more about what sort of electrical protection your home and appliances need, speak to one of our licensed electricians.

Improve your home’s electrical system with our help. Anderson Electric Corp. is your trusted electrician in Clifton, NJ for over 25 years.

Knob-and-Tube Wiring: Why It Must Be Replaced

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 16:00:00 GMT

The Basics of Knob-and-Tube Wiring

As electricity started entering homes in the 1880s, knob-and-tube wiring was an easy way to set up wires. The wires pass through a series of ceramic tubes in the joists and other wooden parts of the house, and the tubes are held up by ceramic knobs. The wires string together from tube to tube, and the wires usually have rubber insulation.

This seems like a strange way to wire up a house, so why was it still being put in homes up to the 1940s? It was a less expensive installation, for one, cheaper than other options available at the time, such as conduits, armored cables, and metal junction boxes. These cost two to three times more than using knob-and-tube wiring. This was before more standardized wiring regulations came into existence and the danger of knob-and-tube wiring started to emerge. As soon as plastic insulated wiring and other options became inexpensive enough (as well as faster to install), there was no reason to continue to use knob-and-tube setups.

Why Knob-and-Tube Wiring Should Be Replaced

You might already be able to guess why this sort of wiring setup can be a problem—a dangerous problem. It starts with the basic insulation: rubber is inferior to modern plastic insulation because rubber decays. (You may have noticed this in the toilets in your house, where the flapper needs to be replaced because it’s decaying.)

Another reason knob-and-tube wiring is dangerous is because it isn’t grounded, which can create a dangerous situation in the event of a power surge, possibly leading to electrical fires The situation becomes more serious if a home has had modern wiring put in alongside the rubber wires of knob-and-tube setups. This is against the electrical code—one of many reasons you never want to have amateurs work on your home’s wiring—because the combination of different materials that heat and expand at different rates is dangerous.

Even if this wiring was safe—and to be clear, it’s not—we still recommend replacing it entirely because of amperage. The demand of the many modern appliances in homes is simply too much for this wiring to handle, making it vital to have the wiring up to code. And while we’re here, we’ll mention that upgrading from old two-prong outlets to grounded three-prong outlets is also advised when you have rewiring done.

For help with knob-and-tube wiring replacement in Clifton, NJ or elsewhere in Northern New Jersey, schedule an appointment with us.

Anderson Electric Corp. has over 25 years of experience with electrical services in Northern New Jersey. Call us for a free estimate today.

Understanding the Electrical Code: Keep Your Home Safe

Mon, 28 Jan 2019 16:00:00 GMT

Meet the NEC: The National Electric Code

The “code” starts with The National Electric Code , a.k.a. the NFPA 70. It is part of the National Fire Codes series published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and it contains government recommended standards for electrical wiring and electrical appliances in the US. For example, it sets standards for high and low voltage rules, insulation for wiring, requirements for outlet types and placements, temperature ratings for wires and cables, and much more.

The NEC isn’t the law of the land or the specific code your house must live up to. It is instead a regionally adoptable system that local jurisdictions can use as the basis for their code requirements. Think of it like a handbook for municipal governments: the NEC is a template that helps municipal boards create their own set of code standards.

Many jurisdictions adopt the NEC wholesale, with only a few adjustments. Other jurisdictions will make extensive changes, and still others will not use the NEC at all and instead build their own electrical code from the ground up. It’s up to the local governing bodies to make the decision.

The NEC is always changing, with updates made to it every three years. The bound book is around a thousand pages long, but it’s also available in an electronic format which makes it easy to see recent changes made in the code.

Electricians and the NEC

Any licensed electrician must understand both the NEC and the local adoption of the NEC. It’s one of the most basic requirements of being a professional electrician. Most jurisdictions follow the NEC requirements closely, and a qualified electrician will understand the local variations and why they are in place.

A building is “up to code” if it meets the local code requirements as inspected by “the authority having jurisdiction,” which changes based on location. The State of New Jersey has adopted the 2014 National Electrical Code.

A Licensed Electrician Will Keep You Up to Code

This may sound like too much information for you to deal with, a few too many jurisdictions and codes, but this is why you have a licensed electrician, like the ones on our staff, to handle your services. It’s our job to ensure every work assignment is done to meet not only the safety requirements of the code, but also to meet your own high standards—which are often higher than the code!

For an electrician in Wayne, NJ who will always ensure your home is up to code and you receive the best possible service, you only have to reach out to our team.

Schedule any electrical job you need done in Northern New Jersey with Anderson Electric Corp. Our Slogan is “Safety – Dependability – Service.”

Get Professional Electrical Help for Outdoor Lighting Problems

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 16:00:00 GMT

Unfortunately, this means that outdoor lighting needs often go ignored. Proper outdoor lighting is one of the most cost-effective ways to beautify a house. It’s also beneficial for home security and to improve safety for walking around the house during the evening. A poorly illuminated path can end up being dangerous.

We provide outdoor lighting installation work, but we also can help with repairs for current lighting setups. There are some simple fixes to outdoor lighting you can do on your own, like changing a light bulb. But it’s important to know when you need to call a licensed electrician familiar with exterior lights for the repairs.

Are you comfortable tampering with your exterior lights?

This is what you should ask yourself before you open a toolkit and tamper with a failed outdoor light. Outdoor lights often use more power than indoor ones and may use buried lines. If you have large failed fixtures, such as lights on posts, do you feel okay trying to replace them on your own? If you have doubts about the safety of any of these jobs, please don’t take chances of suffering an injury, an electric shock, or possibly damage to your house or property that will increase the repair costs. A professional electrician can handle the job quickly and accurately. (Make sure the electrician is fully licensed and insured!)

An example of a major outdoor lighting problem

We’ll demonstrate how professional electricians can solve problems for you that you shouldn’t deal with yourself. Landscape lighting is a great way to liven up a front or back yard. If one or two of the lights in your landscape lighting go out, it’s usually a basic task to replace them. Simply make sure you put in a new bulb of the correct wattage, voltage, and size. But if all the landscape lights go out, something more serious is at work.

Always check the circuit breaker panel indoors to see if the circuit for the outdoor lights has tripped. If you reset it and it trips again, then the overload on the circuit is something for a professional to check on.

If the circuit breaker isn’t the issue, there are a couple of possibilities. The main cable or source could be bad, or the connection between the electric source bad. Fixing this—or even determining which is the problem—takes extra work and often involves digging to reach the cable. If you don’t feel comfortable doing this yourself—well, good for you, because you shouldn’t. Digging around to find electrical cables is a job for a licensed electrician only.

Get the electrical help you need

When you believe you need professional electricians in Caldwell, NJ for outdoor and indoor lighting repairs, call us. We have more than 20 years of history handling all types of lighting installations and repairs. We can help with everything from chandelier lighting to outdoor security flood lighting.

Reach out to Anderson Electric Corp. for all your lighting needs. We offer service to Northern New Jersey.

Ceiling Fans for Summer and Winter - Save on Energy Bills

Mon, 31 Dec 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Ceiling Fans in Hot Weather

Of course, you have already experienced the effects of a fan and how it makes you feel cooler when the weather is hot. Why is that? The fan isn’t actually lowering the temperature of the air. What it’s doing is removing the heat envelope from around your body. This causes your body to release more heat and cool down.

A good ceiling fan in a room, correctly placed for maximum effect, can make people in the space feel around 8°F cooler. This often means the difference in whether the air conditioner is turned on or off. With the right ceiling fans, you can cut down on your air conditioning use during summer and start racking up savings. The fans do use electricity, of course, but much less than the amount of electricity that goes to powering an air conditioning system’s compressor.

Ceiling Fans in Cold Weather

Yes, you can get use out of those fans during a New Jersey winter. On the base of each fan you’ll find a switch. This can reverse the direction the fan rotates. If you look at the fan from below and it’s turning counterclockwise, then it’s in standard mode for cooling people down. After flipping the switch, the blades should be turning clockwise, and this is the mode for colder weather.

When the fans blades are going in reverse, the fan pushes air from the ceiling downward. Because heat rises, this motion by the fan improves heat distribution and creates for a more even spread of comfort. The heating system won’t need to run as long to spread heat.

Please remember: no matter what mode the fan is running in, it isn’t actually altering the temperature of the room. People must be in the room to feel the effect. To maximize energy savings, make sure to turn off the ceiling fans in rooms that aren’t being used.

Can’t I Buy and Install a Ceiling Fan Myself?

We don’t recommend it. The installation process requires both construction and electrical knowledge to do correctly. If the fan is not put in securely, it will start to loosen as it operates, and eventually can tear loose. You don’t want to take those chances. Call professional electricians to have the job done right from start to finish.

You can arrange for electrical services in West Orange, NJ or elsewhere in Northern New Jersey with our licensed electricians. We have 20 years of history delivering the best in electrical work to homes and businesses in the area. Whether you’d like to have ceiling fans installed or an old electrical panel replaced, you can trust the work to us.

Schedule service today or request a free estimate. Anderson Electric Corp.: Safety—Dependability—Service.

Holiday Lighting Safety - Tips for Safe and Festive Lighting

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Unfortunately, these holiday lights have been known to overwhelm the electrical systems of homes—and can even lead to dangerous electrical fires. We’d like to address these concerns in this post. We work with both indoor and outdoor lighting in Montclair, NJ and the surrounding areas, so we have plenty of experience when it comes to festive holiday lighting and how to keep safe through the season.

Does Your Home Have an Upgraded Electrical Panel?

Before you consider putting up a massive set of lights, either indoors or outdoors, ask yourself how old the home’s electrical panel is. This panel is where the incoming current from the grid is split into different circuits (and yes, this includes outdoor power). A panel more than 15 or 20 years old may not be capable of handling the higher demands of modern electrical systems, let alone the addition of holiday lighting. We recommend arranging for a new panel installation with our electricians. If you still have an old fuse box rather than circuit breakers, have the upgrade done ASAP!

Understand the Circuit Capacity Before You Plug in Those Lights

Even with the newest electrical panel, too much electrical demand from adding light strings can lead to tripped breakers or even fires. To avoid trouble, find out the safe wattage for the circuits you are going to use for the lights and make sure the lights don’t exceed this.

Each circuit has a total wattage capacity. The safe wattage is about 80% of this. To determine safe wattage, look at the numbers beside the circuit breakers on the panel, which list an amperage. Multiply this number by 120 volts, and then multiply that number by 0.8 (i.e. 80%). This will give you the safe capacity of the circuit. For example, if you find the indoor circuit for where you plan to plug in the tree lights is 20, then the wattage capacity is 2,400 (12 x 120) and the safe wattage is 1,920 (2,400 x 0.8).

Now add up the watts of the lights you want to put onto this circuit. You don’t want to exceed the safe wattage amount. However, if other lights or appliances are using this same circuit, such as lamps or a television or other outdoor lights, you must subtract their wattage from the safe wattage first. Remember to count each string of lights—if you keep adding on more light strings, you’ll eventually trip a circuit breaker and be in the dark.

Rely on Professionals for Electrical Repairs

If anything does go wrong with your electrical panel or other parts of the electrical system due to holiday festive lighting mishaps, please don’t try to make any fixes on your own. This is a fast way to create bigger hazards or give yourself a dangerous high voltage shock. Reach out to our licensed electricians to handle the task.

Safety – Dependability – Service: Call Anderson Electric Corp. for your electrical needs in Essex, Morris, Passiac Counties, and Northern New Jersey.

Upgrade Your Electrical Panel for Efficiency and Safety

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 16:00:00 GMT

The Basics of the Electrical Panel

The electrical panel or fuse box (sometimes called a load center) is something like a train switching station for your house or other building. As electrical power enters the home, it’s the job of the electrical panel to divide the current into different circuits for distribution throughout the building.

The panel also protects the electrical system with fuses or breakers for each of the circuits. If there’s a voltage overload in a circuit, the panel will either trip a breaker or burn out a fuse. In either case, it stops the flow of electricity to the circuit until the breaker is reset or a new fuse is put in.

Some homes (and most commercial buildings) may have sub-panels to service individual areas with multiple circuits. Your kitchen may have one.

Outdated Panels

These load centers are not meant to last forever. The amount of electricity used in homes has risen over the last two decades. In 2017, the average annual electricity consumption in a US home was 10,400 kilowatthours (kWh), an average of 867 kWh per month. This is an increase from only four years earlier , when annual electricity consumption for a house was 9,090 kWh. The rise is even steeper when you look back ten or twenty years. With more electrical devices and charging stations, homes consume more electricity than ever before.

Can your current load center handle the rise in electrical use? If it’s more than a decade old, it might require upgrades to allow for it to work its best. If you have noticed more tripped circuit breakers than before, we recommend calling our team to arrange for a consultation. For older panels or ones that have suffered electrical fires in them, we’ll advise a full panel replacement.

Replace Fuse Boxes

If you still have a fuse box rather than a panel with circuit breakers, you definitely need an upgrade. To deal with the rise in electrical usage, increasingly larger fuses must be put into the panel, and this creates a major safety hazard! Electrical panels are much more convenient anyway, since you don’t have to replace fuses, only reset tripped switches.

Surge Protection

This is a good idea for a panel upgrade: adding surge protection. A whole-house surge protector reroutes excess voltage (such as from a lighting strike or a surge from the power plant) down into the ground. This can prevent serious damage to appliances and sensitive equipment in your home—basic power strips aren’t enough!

If you think you need service for an electrical panel in Clifton, NJ , please contact us. With over 25 years of experience and a trained staff of technicians, we’re expert troubleshooters and can diagnose and repair all electrical problems you may have in your home or business.

Arrange for an appointment with Anderson Electric Corp.: Safety – Dependability – Service!

Simple Electrical Upgrades to Make Your Home Safer.

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Yes, you must have professional electricians for these jobs. Home electrical work is not something you can do on your own, since it risks creating worse safety issues. Professionals are trained to keep homes up to the local electrical code and ensure that any work is done to the highest safety standards.

Below are some of the electrical jobs you can have a professional electrician do to make your house a safer one:

Replace old outlets with GFCI and AFCI ones

If you have standard three-pronged outlets in your home (or even two-pronged outlets!), we strongly recommend you have some of them upgraded to GFCI and AFCI outlets, which are now the standard for new home construction. You can recognize these outlets by the two buttons between the sockets, marked TEST and RESET. These outlets are designed to protect from electrical shocks. They detect when there is an imbalance between the “hot” and “neutral” slots of the socket. If there is an imbalance, it means electricity is flowing to the ground, possibly through a person, and the outlet immediately trips a breaker and shuts off the flow of electricity. GFCI and AFCI outlets should be in the kitchen, bathrooms, and any room where people sleep.

Upgrade worn or old electrical panels

The electrical panel is where electricity into the house divides into different circuits. Circuit breakers on the panel will trip to protect the electrical system in case of a power overload. If you have a panel more than ten years old—or it uses fuses rather than breakers—we strongly urge you to have a new panel put in. An upgraded panel will help deal with the larger amount of electricity homes use today and help prevent electrical fires. (And we can’t stress this enough: old fuse boxes can be dangerous!)

Tamper resistant outlets

If you have a home with small children, it’s important to take safety precautions with the outlets to prevent a child from jamming small objects into them. Plastic outlet covers are a common solution, but a much better option—safer and more convenient—is to have tamper-resistant outlets installed. These outlets have shutters on them that close when not in use. If you’re going to upgrade to GFCI/AFCI outlets anyway, ask to have them made tamper-resistant as well.

We have the electricians in Nutley, NJ to help you with electrical upgrades. We have more than 25 years of experience, and our staff of licensed and trained electricians are expert troubleshooters. They can handle small safety upgrades, and they can also do major rewiring work for older homes, such as knob and tube remediation—something few electricians in the area can handle.

SAFETY – DEPENDABILITY – SERVICE: Anderson Electric Corp. Call us today for electrical upgrades.

Common Commercial Electrical Problems to Watch Out For

Mon, 22 Oct 2018 15:00:00 GMT

Flickering Lights

One very common sign that there is some sort of problem with the electrical system is flickering lights. No, we’re not talking about that one fluorescent bulb in the break room. We’re talking about entire sections of the building that seem to have the same lighting problem. When that happens, it’s usually a sign that there’s a short circuit somewhere in the system. It may seem like just a mildly annoying issue, but short circuits can cause quite a lot of damage depending on where they’re located. Make sure that you call a professional electrician if you notice this problem.

Unusually High Electric Bills

Sometimes, an electrical problem like a short circuit can waste so much power that it actually causes your monthly bills to spike. If your utility bill goes up for no apparent reason, it might be because you’ve got a problem with your electrical system wasting a lot of power. You’re going to need a technician to check out your system in order to confirm that something is wrong with it, though.

Circuit Breaker Issues

The circuit breaker exists to protect your building from various electrical issues that can spark fires or cause other damage. The breaker itself is not immune to problems, though. If you ever have the circuit breaker trip, and then refuse to reset, then you might have a bigger issue that needs addressing than a simple power surge. You also should call for repairs if you notice that the same circuit keeps tripping shortly after being reset, as that can indicate some sort of problem in that specific circuit.

These are just a few of the many different electrical issues that can affect a commercial building. We don’t have the space to cover all of them here, though, so we’re going to end this post by reminding you that if anything arouses your suspicion about your electrical system you should have it checked out by a professional. Better to be overly cautious than to ignore a potentially serious problem.

Anderson Electric Corp. offers a full range of commercial electrical repair services. If you are looking for the best commercial electrician in Bloomfield, NJ , we can help you out. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our professional technicians. We can make sure that your electrical system is as healthy as possible.

Why You Need a Professional for Smart Home Setup

Mon, 08 Oct 2018 15:00:00 GMT

A Professional Knows How Everything Interacts

A smart home is usually not one or two smart appliances, but a network of different systems all communicating and working with each other. Maybe your door lock is connected to your phone, along with your water heater and your lights. Maybe your air conditioner is set to a certain temperature every time you open the front door, so you can come home and enjoy a more comfortable climate at certain times of year. Installing one of these appliances may or may not be something you can do on your own (we don’t recommend messing with your climate control or water heater wiring yourself, for myriad reasons). Installing all of these appliances so they can work together properly, though, is something that only a professional has enough expertise to do consistently.

A Professional Can Do Everything Safely

Some smart appliances carry virtually no risk of doing anything unsafe, even when not operated properly. Plenty of others can make you vulnerable in ways you haven’t thought of, though. For example, setting up your lights with some form of automation might only carry a risk of turning them on accidentally at weird times. A bit of extra cost on the electric bill, but no big deal beyond that, right? What about your doors and locks, though? What happens if your door unlocks while you’re out, or on vacation, and you don’t realize it? You can see how some of these things can be very disconcerting indeed.

A professional technician, though, knows how to install and set up everything so that there’s minimal chance of that kind of thing happening. They also know how to show you how to operate each and every element of your smart home, so you are less likely to accidentally open yourself up to those kinds of things.

A Professional Can Set Everything Up Faster

Anyone who has ever had to assemble or install an appliance knows that it can be an absolute nightmare the first time around. Some smart home appliances and systems are “plug and play” but most of them aren’t. You’re going to need some level of installation and configuration time before you can start making use of them. If you hire a professional to take care of it for you, though, you can be sure that they’ve already done this a number of times before. They’ll be able to get everything up and running faster, which means you won’t have to struggle through hours of instruction manuals yourself.

Anderson Electric Corp. offers full smart home setup services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with an electrician in Bloomfield, NJ.

How to Avoid Nasty Generator Problems - Anderson Electric

Mon, 24 Sep 2018 15:00:00 GMT

Schedule Preventive Maintenance at Least Once a Year

Most of the issues that you are likely to run into with generators are very subtle. You’re not likely to randomly notice that your generator is dealing with some sort of issue before it manages to cause catastrophic problems for you. If a problem develops in your system, and you only use the system when you really need it, then there’s a lot of potential to put you in a precarious position.

The best way to mitigate the chances of something like this happening is to have preventive maintenance conducted on your system on a regular basis. Consistent maintenance appointments provide your technician with the opportunity to locate and resolve issues with your generator before they progress far enough to threaten the operation of the system. If you schedule preventive maintenance at least once a year, typically right before the season when you expect to need it on a regular basis, you can expect your generator to fare much better in the long run with fewer problems.

Make Sure You Do Your Part

Most automatic standby generators operate more or less without any work required on the homeowner’s part. When the power goes out, they activate on their own until they are no longer needed. Such generators also tend to have their own dedicated fuel line, in order to obviate the need for refueling by the homeowner. If you do have a generator that you need to manually turn on, though, you should make sure that you take a couple minor steps to keep it in good shape.

If the system runs on gasoline, make sure that you flush it out and refuel it every few months. Gasoline can and does go stale, in which case your generator won’t start even if it’s full. You should also make sure you store your generator in a place with plenty of ventilation, for safety’s sake. Proper storage and operation will help your generator do its job without causing any issues.

Anderson Electric Corp offers a full range of generator repair in Clifton, NJ. If you need to schedule generator repair or maintenance services, contact us today for an appointment. We’ll make sure that your generator is there for you when you need it.

Expert Recessed Lighting Repairs in Wayne, NJ

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 15:00:00 GMT

They do present a bit of a problem when it comes to making repairs. Replacing a burnt-out incandescent bulb or LED bulb is a simple task. The difficulty is when recessed lights have electrical issues or have come loose. Because the lights are set into the construction material, accessing and fixing the wiring and other components of the fixture are tricky. You only want to entrust the job of fixing a faulty recessed light to a professional electrician in Wayne, NJ . This ensures the job is done accurately and without creating the danger of an electrical fire.

Crooked, loose, or hanging lights

Recessed lights have mounting clips holding them in place. The clips are mounted against the drywall and attached to the light’s base. These clips can slip and come loose, leading to crooked recessed lights or lights that have slipped and are hanging down from the housing. Neither is ideal! But you can’t just shove the light fixture back into its hole in the ceiling to fix it. One of the big concerns with tampering with recessed lights if you don’t have professional training and tools is you can weaken the drywall and cause damage that will make it necessary to replace the entire fixture and start over. A professional can take care of the job of re-stapling the clips and mounting the lights without weakening the drywall.

Bad wiring

If you’re noticing a blinking recessed light fixture, the trouble may be with the wiring rather than with the bulb. An electrician can test to locate the problem, then find the best way to access the wiring. An electrician will ensure the proper thermal protection is in place—the parts of the recessed light insulating the drywall and other building material from the heat of the light and prevent fires—so the repair is done safely.

Replacing recessed lights

Sometimes, the best way forward is to have a new light put in. This involves replacing the housing and probably doing some changes to the wiring. If your electrician believes it is best to have the light replaced, you can look into some improvements, such as changing over to energy-saving LED lighting. Or maybe it’s time for a bit of a lighting redesign for the area? You can have the other recessed lights replaced as part of redoing the lighting for the room. Talk to your electrician about the best and most affordable options for your situation.

Our electricians can handle any of your lighting needs. We work with recessed lighting and all other kinds of indoor lighting—LED lighting, track lighting, accent lighting, etc. Call us when you need recessed lighting repairs or if you want to schedule a free consultation for improvements to your home’s indoor lighting.

Trust us with your indoor and outdoor lighting needs. Anderson Electric Corp. serves Southern New Jersey. SAFETY – DEPENDABILITY – SERVICE.

Circuit Breaker Replacement in Montclair, NJ - Anderson Electric

Mon, 27 Aug 2018 15:00:00 GMT

A circuit breaker is a key part of an electrical system. The breaker is the part of your system that gives a barrier between your home and an electrical disaster. It’s important to know when you need a new circuit breaker so you can replace any faulty parts and avoid electrical issues. If you need an amazing electrician in Montclair, NJ to upgrade or replace your circuit breaker, our team here at Anderson Electric Corp. is the right fit for you.

Signs It’s Time to Replace

Get a Professional’s Help

Although fixing something like a breaker may seem simple, always contact an electrician for these services to ensure that your home remains intact and that your loved ones are safe. Electric work is not a viable candidate for a DIY project. Our crew at Anderson Electric Corp has extensive experience with circuit breaker replacements — we can fortify your home against electrical problems.

Anderson Electric Corp employs many hardworking, professional, and reliable electricians. Schedule an appointment today for superior service. We can find the perfect circuit breaker to meet your home’s electrical needs.

Electrical Rewiring: When It's a Good Idea | Anderson Electric

Mon, 13 Aug 2018 15:00:00 GMT

It doesn’t even necessarily need to be done every decade or so, the way HVAC systems should be. However, there are some times when it’s a very good idea to have part or all of your home rewired. Let’s go over when it’s a good idea to schedule electrical rewiring for your home below.

Knob and Tube Wiring

Believe it or not, there are homes in this country that still use wiring from the turn of the last century. Knob and tube wiring predates the invention of insulated wires. Since the wires themselves were “naked” they were suspended away from the walls using ceramic knobs and tubes. Putting aside for a moment the fact that any wiring like this still in use is likely over a hundred years old, and therefore well-past the point of safe operation, the whole idea of knob and tube wiring isn’t that safe. Suspending live wires a scant few inches away from flammable drywall and other parts of your home that should not be subjected to an electrical current is a recipe for disaster. At the time this type of wiring was popular, it was really the only option for those who wanted electricity in their homes. Now, thankfully, we have much better options. We recommend that you get any knob and tube wiring in your home replaced as soon as possible.

Faulty Wiring

Sometimes, there’s mistake in manufacturing and you end up with wiring that will never work as well as it should. This isn’t too common, assuming you have an electrician worth their salt checking all of it before it’s installed. Still, sometimes the defect doesn’t become apparent until months or years after the wiring is installed. Depending on what exactly is wrong with the wiring, you may end up with a short circuit or another issue. As soon as the wiring is discovered to be faulty, though, even if it hasn’t caused any serious problems yet, we highly recommend that you replace it as soon as possible. You won’t want to wait until it sparks a fire or something before taking steps to deal with it.

These are, of course, just a couple of different times when it’s a good idea to have your electrical wiring redone. Each home is different, though, and it’s ultimately best to pay attention to whatever your electrician recommends when it comes to your own situation. They’ll be able to recommend the best option for your home.

Anderson Electric Corp employs the best electricians in Clifton, NJ. If you’re looking for an electrician for your home, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our professional technicians. We’ll make sure that your electrical system serves you well.

Automate Your Home for the Better - Anderson Electric

Mon, 30 Jul 2018 15:00:00 GMT

Smart Thermostats

People actually waste a lot of money on climate control every year due to thermostat issues. Maybe you forget to turn the air conditioner off when you leave for work in the morning, or when you go to bed at night. Those little overruns add up, and eventually start to cost you real money from month to month. The best way around that is to install a smart thermostat in your home.

Smart thermostats learn from your climate control habits over the first couple of weeks that you use them. Eventually, they will know your habits well enough to adjust themselves entirely autonomously without your input. No more waking up to a freezing cold house because the AC was running all night. You can even set the thermostat to turn on your climate control systems a few minutes before you normally get home every day, so the temperature can be just right when you walk in the door.

Samsung Hub

If you want to really see what the internet of things can do for you, have a look at the Samsung Hub. This simple setup system can link all of your smart locks, lights, outlets, and pretty much every other smart appliance in your home together, so you can control all of them from a single point. Using an app on your phone, you can do everything from turn the lights off from the couch to locking your front door when you leave. The Hub is compatible with a variety of other devices from different manufacturers, so you don’t have to worry about it not playing well with others.

Alexa

The Amazon Alexa has been incredibly popular for its multitude of different functions since its release. If you’re looking for a home assistant that offers you easy access to the internet, Amazon store, your contacts and calendars, and a multitude of other functions, Alexa is a great choice. We can help you get Alexa all set up, so you can take full advantage of its functionality.

These are just a few of the many different ways that you can automate your home for the better. Talk to a qualified professional to find out more ways that you can easily take advantage of the Internet of Things.

Anderson Electric Corp offers a full range of home automation installation services in Wayne, NJ. If you want help automating your home, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our professional electricians.

How Often Do You Need an Electrician to Check Your Wiring?

Mon, 02 Jul 2018 15:00:00 GMT

Electrical problems can absolutely happen in your home, they can happen without you realizing it at first, and they can cause an immense amount of damage if they aren’t dealt with in time. That’s why you need to have an electrician check out your wiring every once in a while, on the off chance that it’s malfunctioning in some way. Have a look below at some of the tips for when to have an electrician check out your electrical system for you.

At Least Once a Year

As we mentioned above, it’s pretty unlikely that you’ll notice a problem with your electrical system as soon as it happens. This is because most electrical problems aren’t going to immediately start showing symptoms. You’ll only start to notice obvious symptoms once the problems have had plenty of time to cause damage, and that’s not a good situation to be in. The best way to ensure that your electrical system stays in good condition for as long as possible is to have a professional electrician check it out for you at least once a year. Your electrician will be able to identify any developing problems in your electrical system, and resolve them before they get any worse. This will keep your home safer, save you money on repair costs, and generally give you peace of mind when it comes to keeping your electrical system functioning properly.

Flickering Lights

Even if you do have a professional electrician check out your system on a regular basis, there is still a chance for problems to occur. One of the more obvious signs that your electrical system is in trouble is if the lights start flickering on a regular basis. This could mean that there is a problem with the light itself, if it’s limited to one light. If multiple lights are flickering at once, though, then you definitely have a deeper electrical issue. Call for repairs as soon as you notice this.

The Electrical Panel Keeps Tripping

Your electrical panel may trip every once in a while when a power surge occurs, or if you overload that circuit. No big deal. You just need to reset the circuit to resolve the issue most of the time. If the panel keeps tripping, though, or if it refuses to reset at all, then you have a more serious issue. You should definitely call for repairs if you suspect that your panel is malfunctioning, or if there’s something that is affecting your system in such a way that it’s causing the panel to trip, you should have a professional electrician check it out as soon as possible.

Anderson Electric Corp provides comprehensive electrical services of all kinds. If you’re looking for the best Summit, NJ electricians , we can help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our professionals.

How Smart Home Appliances Benefit Your Home - Anderson Electric

Mon, 18 Jun 2018 15:00:00 GMT

Maybe you already have some smart home appliances in your home, or maybe you’re just now looking into getting your first one. Whether you’re a smart home veteran or a newcomer, though, we’ve assembled a list of beneficial applications below that could improve any household.

Smart Thermostats

A lot of people waste an appalling amount of money on climate control without even realizing it. They leave their air conditioner on when they’re out of the house running errands, or their heater on overnight when they aren’t awake to appreciate it. Sometimes, people just forget to turn the system off when they don’t need it anymore. For all of those reasons, it’s a great idea to install a smart thermostat.

Smart thermostats learn from your climate control habits, and after the first few weeks they will know them well enough to adjust themselves. This is convenient, of course, since you don’t really have to touch the thermostat to get your home temperature the way you like it anymore. However, it also saves you money by ensuring that your system is not running when it shouldn’t be. You’ll be more comfortable, less likely to lose money to climate control issues, and all-around happier with your HVAC systems throughout the year.

Camera Installation

When going on a long trip, or even off to work for the day, many people worry about whether or not their home is going to be safe while they’re gone. If you want the peace of mind that comes with being able to check up on your home whenever you want, consider installing some cameras around the house. Modern security cameras come with a whole range of features, including the ability to be controlled from an app on your phone.

Door Locks

Always losing your house keys? Want to make sure that you didn’t forget to lock your house door before you left? Smart door locks allow you to monitor the status of your home’s locks, and even lock them or unlock them remotely through an app! Now, you will always be able to get into your home when you need to, and make sure that it’s locked up tight while you’re gone.

The above are just a few of the many different smart home appliances that can benefit your home this year. If you’d like to delve deeper into specifics about how these appliances work, and which one would be best for you, contact a professional you trust to walk you through the process.

Anderson Electric Corp. provides smart home setup services in Clifton, NJ. If you need a new smart home appliance installed in your home, we can take care of it for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our professional electricians.

3 Signs Your Home is Experiencing Electrical Trouble

Mon, 04 Jun 2018 15:00:00 GMT

The best way to make sure that your electrical system experiences as few problems as possible is to schedule preventive maintenance for it on a regular basis, probably at least once every year or two. Even then, though, you still need to keep an eye out for warning signs between appointments. The following are three common signs that your home is experiencing some sort of electrical issue that requires repair.

Flickering Lights

The short circuit is perhaps the single most common electrical issue a home can have, the equivalent of a leak in a plumbing system. When a short circuit develops, it shunts part or all of the current into places it shouldn’t be flowing. This often manifests by causing lights to flicker when plugged into the circuit that has a short in it. One flickering light might be a problem with the light itself. Flickering lights throughout the home, or across multiple outlets, can indicate a deeper electrical issue. Make sure that you call a professional electrician if you notice lights throughout your home flickering.

Hot Spots

When the current from a short circuit escapes the electrical system, it often meets resistance in the insulation and other materials in the wall or floor. This resistance causes the current to discharge much of its energy as heat, creating a hot spot in roughly the same location as the short circuit. If you find an inexplicably hot area on one of your walls, floors, or ceilings, it might indicate that you have an electrical problem that needs to be repaired.

Continual Circuit Breaker Tripping

The circuit breaker is designed to keep your electrical system safe by monitoring the current flowing through the system, and shutting down any circuits that are not acting as they should. If you have a circuit that seems to continually trip, no matter how many times you reset it or how much you lighten the load on it, then you should definitely call an electrician and have them examine your system. It’s possible that there’s a serious issue with the circuit, or even with the circuit breaker itself.

As far as electrical issues go, the potential for serious injury or property damage is pretty high. So, these are issues that you want to have dealt with as quickly as possible. If you have any suspicion that your electrical system is dealing with some kind of issue, you should call an electrician as soon as you can. It may end up being nothing, or it might be a serious problem that you caught just in time.

Anderson Electric Corp provides comprehensive electrical services. If you’re looking for a reliable electrician in Wayne, NJ , we can help you out. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

If Your Generator Is Doing These Things, It Needs Repairs

Mon, 21 May 2018 15:00:00 GMT

The best way to prevent your generator from completely breaking down on you when you need it the most is to schedule preventive maintenance for it at least once a year. This will give your technician the opportunity to make sure that any issues are dealt with before they can get worse. You should make sure to keep watch for any signs that your generator is developing problems between appointments, though. The faster you can recognize an issue and have it fixed, the better off your generator will be. Have a look at the following signs that your generator is in need of repairs.

Spotty Power Generation

A whole-house backup generator should be more than powerful enough to keep everything in your home running until the main power comes back on. At least, it should be if it was sized and installed properly. If your generator suddenly starts to experience stuttering or any other kind of lapse in power generation, you should have a professional check it out sooner rather than later. That kind of issue could be due to a short circuit, or some sort of problem with the natural gas line. You’ll need to have a technician check out the system to make sure.

Difficulty Starting

If your generator doesn’t start when it’s supposed to, it might be for a number of different reasons. It’s possible that the system isn’t getting the fuel it needs from the natural gas line. If you’re using a generator that runs off of gasoline or some other refillable fuel, you should check to make sure that it’s properly supplied. Gasoline, in particular, can actually go stale and lose its ability to combust, so if you’ve had the same gasoline in your generator for a while you might want to switch it out and see if that solves the problem.

Sudden Shutdowns

If your generator suddenly shuts off in the middle of powering your home, there could be a number of different things wrong with it. The battery might be dead, or it may have overheated due to low coolant. It’s also possible that the system needs one of a number of different parts replaced due to wear and tear, like the belts or the block heater. You’re going to need to have a technician check out the generator for you to tell for certain. The faster you call for repair in situations like these, the better.

Anderson Electric Corp provides comprehensive generator repair services in Clifton, NJ. If you need help getting your generator back to proper working order, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert electricians. We can make sure that your generator is in top condition.

Frequent Power Surges: Are You Concerned? - Anderson Electric

Mon, 07 May 2018 15:00:00 GMT

Frequent Power Surges

There are two kinds of power surges that we should talk about before we dig into anything else. The first is internal power surges. These happen multiple times a day, and are usually too minor to notice. Sometimes, if you turn on a massive power hog that happens to be plugged into an already-overloaded circuit, you might trip the circuit breaker and have to reset. We recommend that you unplug the appliances already in the system one at a time, just so it’s easier to identify what is causing the problem and needs to be moved to a different circuit.

The other kind of power surge is the external surge. This is when something like lightning strikes your house. As far as the potential for catastrophic damage goes, you’re far more likely to have it as a result of an external surge than an internal one. What if the source of the surges appears to be inside the home, though? What if your circuit breaker is constantly tripping for no apparent reason? Well, in that case, you have a number of possible explanations.

Issues with Internal Surges

If you know you’re having frequent, strong internal power surges in your home then it’s possible that something is wrong with your circuit breaker. Either the breaker panel is tripping when it shouldn’t be, in which case you actually aren’t having a power surge problem and the issue is located in the panel, or the panel isn’t tripping when it should and constantly overloading. Either one of these is not a good sign, and regardless of the cause, you should definitely consult with a professional about resolving the problem as quickly as possible. The service panel is a key part of keeping your electrical system safe. If there is a problem with it, then you should make sure that it’s repaired as soon as you can. It’s also possible that there is some sort of appliance in your home that’s causing the power surges. If that’s the case, you may just need to have whatever the appliance is moved to a different circuit or unplugged entirely.

Anderson Electric Corp. provides a full range of electrical services. If you are in need of any kind of assistance with your electrical system, our Nutley, NJ electricians can help you out. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Commercial Electrical Repair | Anderson Electric Corp.

Mon, 23 Apr 2018 15:00:00 GMT

Regardless of what commercial property you’re talking about, though, electrical issues are not to be underestimated. At best, an electrical issue can disable part of your building for however long it takes to get it fixed. At worst, it can start a fire or pose an electrocution risk. You really don’t want an electrical issue to go unchecked any longer than it has to. That’s why we’ve noted some easy ways to tell if your commercial electrical system is in need of repairs.

Unusual Circuit Breaker Activity

Commercial circuits are designed to handle a much greater electrical load than residential circuits, which makes commercial circuit breakers a lot less likely to trip during daily operations. This, of course, depends entirely on the building and what it does. Still, no matter what kind of work is going on in your commercial building, you should have your circuit breaker tripping on a regular basis. If one of the circuits on your system won’t reset, or it does and it just keeps tripping again, it could be because of a serious electrical issue. Make sure that you call an electrician if your circuit breaker isn’t behaving normally.

Warm Spots

One of the most dangerous electrical issues is short-circuiting in the wiring. This often occurs with old wires, where the insulation wears away and wires become exposed. If a wire is touching a beam or some drywall, it can start heating up the area by venting a current into it. This is a serious fire risk. If there are any unusually warm or hot spots on the walls in your building, it might be a good idea to have a professional electrician check the system. This sign especially applies to light switches, although it should be noted that dimmer switches are typically warmer than normal regardless.

Flickering Lights

One flickering light is probably indicative of a short in the light itself, or even that the light bulb just isn’t screwed in all the way. Multiple flickering lights tends to mean that there’s an issue with the electrical system. You’ll need to have a professional check out the system for you to determine how serious the issue is, but it’s better to have it done sooner rather than later.

Burning or Acrid Smells

If an electrical issue does cause something to start burning in your building’s walls, the first sign you’re likely going to notice is the smell. Any kind of burning or acrid smell that could indicate a fire should be checked out immediately and thoroughly. Electrical fires can spread quite quickly, and the faster they’re dealt with the safer the building will be.

Anderson Electric Corp. services industrial electrical systems in Wayne, NJ. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our electricians.

When is it Necessary to Rewire Your Home? Find Out Here

Mon, 09 Apr 2018 15:00:00 GMT

The Wiring is Old

Now, technically speaking you can continue to use electrical wiring that’s many decades old. There are systems in use today that use wires that are over a century old. Just because you can do that, though, that doesn’t mean you should. The problem with using older wiring is that the older it gets, the more worn out it gets. That makes it more prone to things like short circuits, electrical fires, and a whole host of other problems that you will want to avoid if at all possible. If you want to keep your home safe from the threats posed by old wiring, the best thing that you can do is have it replaced with modern wires.

You Have a Knob and Tube System

When we said above that there are some electrical wiring systems still in use that are over a century old, we were talking about knob and tube wiring. This is a method of wiring from way back when residential electricity was first coming into vogue, at the turn of the twentieth century. The problem is that while these wires work, they predate the invention of insulation. So, what you have in this system is a bunch of uninsulated, live wires suspended a few inches away from the walls to prevent them from catching fire. If this sounds incredibly dangerous, that’s because it is. Due to the nature and age of these systems, we highly recommend that you have them replaced as soon as you possibly can.

There is Something Wrong with the Wires

Electrical wires develop problems over time, just like any other home system. The difference between electrical systems and many others is that once you have a short circuit or something similar, it’s a lot more difficult to patch in some cases than it is to simply replace the whole affected area. If your electrician is dealing with a problem in your electrical system, they may decide that it is safer, more cost-efficient, or both to replace the problem wiring than to try and repair it.

Anderson Electric Corp. provides comprehensive electrical wiring services throughout Wayne, NJ and the surrounding areas. If you need electrical services, we are here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our professional electricians. We’ll make sure that your electrical system serves you well for many years.

Tips for Electrical Panel Maintenance | Anderson Electric

Mon, 26 Mar 2018 15:00:00 GMT

While the electrical panel can last for many, many years without developing serious problems, it has been known to happen. In the interest of keeping you safe during the year, we’ve compiled some good tips on how to keep your electrical panel in good condition.

Schedule Electrical Maintenance

It’s pretty much an all-around good idea to have a professional electrician go over your system for you at least once a year. Electrical systems are a vital part of the average home, and they can develop some very serious issues that have ripple effects across the whole house. During a preventive maintenance appointment, your electrician will be sure to check your circuit breaker and make sure that everything is functioning the way it should be. Trust us when we say that you don’t want to have a problem with your electrical panel go unnoticed for any length of time, when you can avoid it. The panel is one of the biggest safeguards for your electrical system, and if it malfunctions it can cause some serious problems.

Check it Yourself

You may not be an expert electrician, but you are qualified to at least take a look at the panel every now and again to make sure that everything is in the right position. It’s a good idea to check inside your electrical panel every once in a while, making sure that all the switches are properly set to the “on” position and that nothing else looks out of the ordinary. If a circuit has tripped, try resetting it to see if it stays on. If a circuit won’t reset or seems stuck somewhere in-between the off/on position, it’s a good idea to call a professional electrician to have a look at it for you. Please do not approach your electrical panel if it’s giving off a burning smell or smoking! In those cases, you should call for emergency electrical services as soon as possible.

Upgrade to a New One

If your electrical panel looks like it might be older than you are, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional about upgrading it. This is a safety issue, of course, but it’s also an efficiency issue. Older electrical panels can create bottlenecks for the current running through them. Switching to a more modern panel might be just what the system needs to start running in a much more efficient manner. If it’s been a while since your electrical panel has been upgraded, let us take care of it for you.

Anderson Electric Corp. offers all kinds of panel upgrades in Clifton, NJ. If you need any kind of help with your electrical panel, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our professional electricians.

Before You Call Your Electrician: Check These Electrical Issues

Mon, 12 Mar 2018 15:00:00 GMT

Your Breaker Panel

If you have any issues with inconsistent current, lack of electrical flow, or other indications that the system isn’t providing enough electricity, you should have a look at your breaker panel before you do anything else. Make sure that all of the switches are flipped to the “on” position, and that nothing else looks out of the ordinary. If a switch has flipped on the circuit that’s giving you trouble, try flipping it back to the on position and see if that fixes the problem.

Note that if the circuit keeps tripping even after you reset it, then there may be something more seriously wrong with either the circuit or the panel itself. In those cases, it would be best to call an electrician to come take a look at the system as soon as possible.

Your Appliances

You’ve probably already ruled this one out, but if you haven’t it’s a good thing to check. Oftentimes, what appears to be an electrical issue is located in the appliance itself rather than the system. If you’re having issues with a flickering light, for example, you should try unplugging it first and plugging a different light into the same outlet to see what happens. If that solves the problem, then you probably don’t have anything else to worry about. If it doesn’t, you may have to have a professional take a look at the system for you.

Your Walls

If electrical current meets resistance, it vents some of its energy as heat. One way to check and see if there might be an electrical problem in your walls is to carefully feel around the area that’s experiencing the issue. If your lights don’t seem to be working, for example, feel the wall around the light switch and see if it feels unusually warm. If so, you might have an electrical issue that needs to be dealt with right away. Please note that in the specific case of dimmer switches, this is a bit different. Those switches are designed to run a bit hotter than normal on/off switches, so you shouldn’t panic unless they’re running really hot.

These steps can help you identify whether or not your electrical system is in need of professional services. There’s a pretty good chance that if your electrical system is experiencing some kind of issue, you’re going to need to have a professional electrician take care of it for you.

Anderson Electric Corp provides employs expert electricians in Summit, NJ. If you need any help with your electrical system, contact us today to schedule an appointment. We’ll make sure that your electrical system is kept in top condition.

Importance of Safety Outlets: GFCI & AFCI | Anderson Electric

Mon, 26 Feb 2018 16:00:00 GMT

What are These Outlets?

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters and Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters, or GFCI and AFCI respectively, are outlets designed to provide an extra layer of protection between your electrical system and the rest of your home. Each is designed to guard against a specific kind of electrical issue.

Ground fault circuit interrupters are a type of outlet designed to protect against electrocution. This is one of the two biggest risks associated with home electrical systems, and it happens more often than you would think, so it’s a good idea to have at least a few of these around just in case. The outlet monitors the flow of electrical current through it at all times. Then, if the current starts behaving in a way it shouldn’t (like maybe someone stuck a fork in the socket) the outlet will immediately cut off all flow through it. This happens so quickly that it can actually prevent any serious harm to whoever is conducting the electrical current.

GFCI outlets aren’t needed everywhere in the home, but they are a good idea in certain areas where it might be more likely for electrocution incidents to occur. The two most common areas for GFCI outlets to be installed are the bathroom and the kitchen, as they contain a lot of water appliances. Touching an outlet with wet hands is inviting disaster, but with a GFCI outlet, you are at least better protected.

AFCI outlets, by contrast, are meant to defend against electrical fires caused by short circuits. Your electrical panel already serves as the first line of defense against issues with the circuit itself, but it does not guarantee that a short won’t ignite something in your walls and start a fire. That’s what AFCI outlets are for. If an AFCI outlet detects an abnormality in the circuit itself, it will shut down to prevent any damage.

If you don’t have any of these outlet types in your home, we highly recommend that you give them a try. They may not be very flashy, but they can seriously save you some trouble in the right circumstances.

Anderson Electric Corp. installs GFCI and AFCI outlets in Clifton, NJ. If you need some new outlets installed in your home, contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Watch Out for Lighting Issues | Anderson Electric

Mon, 12 Feb 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Flickering

All jokes aside, this is not a sign that your house is haunted. It usually means that there’s a short in the circuit somewhere. If it’s just happening with one light, then you have a couple different things you can try. First, and you’ve probably already guessed this one, you can try replacing the lightbulb. If that fixes the issue, then the rest of the light is probably fine. If the flickering continues, then the issue is likely elsewhere.

Try unplugging the light and plugging a different light in to see if the issue continues. If that fixes the problem, then the short is probably in the wiring for the light itself. You can try having the light repaired, but it would probably be easier just to replace it. If the new light that you just plugged in starts to flicker as well, then the issue is probably located in the outlet. That’s a bigger issue, and one that you should have looked at by a professional electrician as soon as possible. A short circuit in the electrical system in the walls can pose a serious risk of fire or electrocution. That’s obviously not something you want to risk. You should also call an electrician if the flickering issue extends to multiple lights throughout the house, as that almost always indicates a problem with the circuit itself.

Heat

All lights give off some level of heat, depending on their wattage and the type of bulb being used. You should start to be a little concerned if one or more of your lights start to give off a significant amount of heat, though. Electrical current will throw off heat as it meets resistance in whatever medium it’s moving through. More current moving through a wire means the wire is going to expel more of it as heat. If your light is giving off a lot more heat than normal, you should turn it off and call for an electrician. That could mean that the circuit is overloaded, or that some other issue is shunting off more current to that light than it should be getting. Waiting to have it dealt with could result in having the light burn out, or worse.

Anderson Electric Corp. provides comprehensive electrical services in Wayne, NJ. If you need a light fixed, or any other kind of electrical service, we can help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert electricians.

Electrical System Upgrades for a Safer Home | Anderson Electric

Mon, 29 Jan 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Knob and Tube Elimination

Knob and tube wiring has been out of vogue for close to a century, and for good reason. This method of wiring was invented before the development and use of wiring insulation, which makes it a significantly riskier option. If you’re using knob and tube wiring in your household, you have a much higher chance of issues like house fires developing. Make sure you have your knob and tube wiring purged from your home and replaced with modern wiring if you want your system to be as safe and efficient as possible.

GFCI and AFCI Outlets

The two most dangerous problems you can run into with electrical issues are fires and electrocution. Both are caused by electrical current traveling in ways that it’s not supposed to. One way that you can actually stop this from happening is by upgrading your outlets.

GFCI outlets (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) are designed to monitor the current running through them at all times. As soon as the current flowing through the outlet starts to behave in a way it shouldn’t be, though (like flowing into a person) the outlet will cut off all electricity. It does this so quickly that there is not enough time for the person to absorb a harmful amount of electricity.

AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets provide the same level of protection as GFCI outlets. The only difference is that AFCI outlets are used to monitor the state of the electrical system inside the walls. This is to detect any instances of short-circuiting, and shut down the flow before it can cause further damage.

New Electrical Panels

The whole purpose of an electrical panel is to make sure that any overloaded circuits are shut down before any damage is done. This is a vital part of keeping your electrical system safe and functioning properly. However, you should know that electrical panels are no more immune to problems than any other part of your home. It’s important that you have a professional take a look at your electrical panel every year or two, and upgrade it as necessary. Otherwise, you might not notice a malfunction with your panel until it causes a more serious issue. If it’s been a while since you’ve had your electrical panel examined, contact a professional as soon as possible and have them take a look at your system.

Anderson Electric Corp offers a full range of electrical services. If you need an electrician in Nutley, NJ , contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experts. We’ll make sure that you get whatever electrical upgrades you need.

Keep Your Electrical System in Good Condition | Anderson Electric

Mon, 15 Jan 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Maintenance

It is not ideal to wait for a problem to present symptoms before calling for a professional electrician to fix them. Sometimes, you really don’t have a choice in the matter. The longer you live in your home, the greater the chance that you will eventually be surprised by one electrical issue or another. However, you can make sure that those issues are mitigated as much as possible by scheduling preventive maintenance at least once every couple of years.

Preventive maintenance for your electrical system typically involves checking the various circuits to make sure that everything is flowing properly. It may also involve physically inspecting any visible parts of your system, like your circuit breaker, to make sure that it’s in good condition. Preventive maintenance can go a very long way towards ensuring that your electrical system stays in ideal condition for as long as possible. We highly recommend doing it, both for your safety and your own peace of mind.

Call for Repairs If You Have to

Please keep in mind that when we say “have to” we mean “if you suspect that you have a problem.” It is very dangerous to ignore an electrical issue and let it get worse, so don’t wait for your next maintenance appointment to have any suspected electrical problems dealt with.

There are a number of different signs that your electrical system is having issues that require professional repair. Flickering lights are a common indicator, especially if they are spread across multiple lights. If your circuit breaker keeps tripping, or trips and won’t reset, then you should definitely have a professional electrician look at it. Hot spots on the walls, especially around light switches, might mean that electrical current is being shunted off into areas that it isn’t supposed to flow. Please note that this is not necessarily a point of concern for dimmer switches, as they will naturally feel warmer than other light switches. Regardless, it is much better to err on the side of caution when it comes to these things. If you have any reason to be concerned about the state of your electrical system, make sure that you call a professional to deal with it as soon as possible.

Anderson Electric Corp. offers a full range of electrical services. If you need an electrician in Clifton, NJ , contact us today.

What You Need to Know About Commercial Lighting

Mon, 01 Jan 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Options for Commercial Lighting

There are a wide variety of different lighting options available for commercial applications, each of which is best suited for a different set of circumstances. Have a look at a few of the most popular:

Why You Want Your Commercial Lights Professionally Installed

So, it should go without saying that you should always have electrical work done by a professional electrician. Electrocution isn’t fun, and it’s much more likely to happen if you have someone other than a trained professional interacting with the electrical system. A professional electrician will also be able to recommend the best commercial lighting solution for your needs. If you’re not sure which commercial lighting application you should go with, you should contact a professional for a consultation.

Maintaining Your Commercial Lights

Commercial lights don’t really need a lot of professional maintenance: just change the bulbs when necessary and you should be fine. Of course, you should still call for professional electrical maintenance at least once every year. This ensures that any developing issues are identified and dealt with as soon as possible. Checking out the wiring for the commercial lights would be part of that maintenance appointment, so there are no other specialized steps that you need to take. If you have any questions or concerns about your commercial lighting systems, though, don’t hesitate to call a professional.

Anderson Electric Corp. provides comprehensive commercial lighting services throughout Wayne, NJ. If you need commercial lighting services of any kind, contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Improve Your Home's Climate Control with an Attic Fan

Mon, 18 Dec 2017 16:00:00 GMT

Why Do You Need an Attic Fan?

Under normal circumstances, the attic of a home tends to retain a lot of heat. Since most people don’t have climate control systems that service their attics, they tend to be pretty heavily insulated. This is great during the winter, but during the summer it actually makes it quite a bit harder to cool the home. Heat moves into the home from outside, rises up into the attic, and sits there. This makes it difficult to cool the home, but it also makes the attic itself unbearably hot during the summer. Installing an attic fan is meant to change that.

What an Attic Fan Does

An attic fan is just a basic ventilation fan that is installed in the attic, typically in the roof. During extremely hot weather, the fan can be turned on to help maintain a comfortable temperature in the attic. This helps to eliminate the problem of having the attic become a massive heat sink on hot days. It won’t keep your entire home cool on its own, but it will at least make it easier to spend time in your attic without feeling like you are standing in an oven.

Will An Attic Fan Cause Problems for Heating?

Some people worry that installing an attic fan in their home will actually make it harder to keep their home’s warm during the winter season. While this may intuitively make sense (cutting a large hole in your roof can’t be good for insulation) it’s actually nothing to worry about. When the fan isn’t running, the loss of insulation is minimal. It’s the air movement that is largely responsible for cooling the area, and with the fan off and your heater running that should not be a problem.

So, if you are looking for a way to make your attic more comfortable and energy efficient, an attic fan might be just the thing for you. Make sure you have a professional install and service it for you, though. Construction and electrical work can be quite dangerous if not conducted properly, so it’s best to have a contractor take care of it for you.

Anderson Electric Corp. provides comprehensive attic fan installation services in Nutley, NJ. If you need a new attic fan installed in your home, contact us today to schedule an appointment. We’ll make sure that you get the perfect attic fan for your home’s needs.

Brighten Your Home with Indoor Lighting Options.

Mon, 04 Dec 2017 16:00:00 GMT

Indoor lighting is super important for both aesthetics and your own convenience/safety. The kinds of lighting that you use in your home can have widespread effects, so it’s important to give them due consideration. Have a look at some of the indoor lighting options you should consider installing.

Track Lighting

Track lights are a series of smaller lights that are strung along a metal “track” suspended from the ceiling. They’re commonly used in office spaces, but they’re also quite popular in homes for a variety of areas. Libraries, dens, living rooms, and the like can benefit from track lighting in a number of ways. The reason that most people install track lights in a room is that each light can typically be tweaked to point in any direction desired. One track lighting installation can provide widespread illumination, to highlight any part of the room that you think needs more of it.

Recessed Lighting

If you’re looking for an unobtrusive way to keep a room lit, try recessed lighting. Recessed lights are installed in the ceiling, providing diffuse light without the need for bulky fixtures of any kind. Occasionally, these lights may have shades like eyelids over them, allowing the light to be directed to an extent. Recessed lighting is very popular for homeowners who want to provide a clean, warm look to the room. They require a bit more electrical work, being installed directly into the ceiling and all. Still, they look very nice one finished.

LED Lighting

Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting has become increasingly popular over the last decade, for a number of reasons. Chief among these reasons is that LED can provide a much higher light level, while consuming much less energy than other light bulbs. This has made them quite popular among the environmentally conscious, as well as those that want to cut down on home operating costs.

There is a perception among some homeowners that the higher lumen levels put out by LED lights make them harsher than other lights. This can certainly be true, but it’s not universally applicable to all LED lights. If you want to find a warmer look, an LED lighting solution can certainly be found to give you that. All you need to do is search around a bit, and possibly consult with a professional to help you find the perfect solution for your needs.

Anderson Electric Corp. offers comprehensive indoor lighting installation services in Wayne, NJ. If you need indoor lighting installed in your home, contact us today to schedule an appointment. We’ll make sure that you get the most out of your lighting.

How to Properly Test & Reset GFCI Outlet | Anderson Electric

Mon, 20 Nov 2017 16:00:00 GMT

What is a GFCI Outlet?

GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. The outlet monitors the amount of electricity flowing through it at any given time, as when there are appliances plugged into it. If the balance of the current flowing through the outlet is thrown off at any time, as when a short circuit occurs, the outlet will cut off the flow of electricity through it as quickly as possible. The outlet is designed to do this as quickly as within 1/30 ^th of a second after the imbalance occurs, in order to cut off the flow of electricity before any serious electrical shock can be delivered.

GFCI outlets are mostly used in areas where they are near water, like the kitchen and bathroom. These are the places where those kinds of electrocution risks are more likely to occur. Nothing is wrong with installing GFCI outlets in other areas of the house as well, though.

Testing the GFCI

Ideally, you should be testing your GFCI outlets at least once a month. You don’t want to have the outlet develop a problem and stop offering its protection without you knowing. Fortunately, it’s quick and easy to actually test the outlet. First, hit the “reset” button on the outlet. Then, plug in an appliance. Anything that you can turn on and off easily will work just fine. You should be able to turn the appliance on and off. While the appliance is on, hit the “test” button on the outlet. The appliance should instantly turn off, as the electrical flow to it is blocked by the outlet. If that happens, your outlet is working properly. Hit the reset button again, and check it again next month. If hitting the test button does not shut off the appliance, though, then you might have a problem. It’s best to have a professional examine the outlet at that point, and repair or replace it as necessary. It’s not worth keeping a GFCI outlet that doesn’t actually protect you against anything, after all.

Anderson Electric Corp. installs and services GFCI outlets throughout Wayne, NJ. If you need electrical services of any kind, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert electricians. We’ll make sure that your home’s electrical system is as safe as possible.

Dangers of Knob and Tube Wiring - Anderson Electric Corp.

Mon, 06 Nov 2017 16:00:00 GMT

Knob and Tube Wiring

The invention of electrical wiring actually predates the invention of insulation for electrical wiring. As you can imagine, this meant that early attempts to wire homes to make use of electricity were quite a bit more dangerous. Uninsulated wires are liable to transmit the current that flows through them into whatever they touch, whether that be the walls or a person. In order to prevent serious injury or property damage, these early wires were precariously suspended away from the walls using a knob and tube system. The knobs are made of ceramic, and keep the wires from touching the walls in which they are installed. At points where the wiring is required to pass through the wall, a ceramic tube is used to insulate it. While this worked relatively well for preventing issues with the wiring, it was far from being as effective as modern insulation.

Problems with Knob and Tube Wiring

There are a great many issues that knob and tube wiring present that modern wiring does not. For one thing, knob and tube wiring still has a much higher chance of sparking house fires or causing electrocution than other wiring does. The wires may be suspended inside the walls, but they’re still uninsulated. If one of the knobs fails, or something falls on the wires, significant damage could still occur.

Aside from the obvious issues with keeping uninsulated wiring in your home, there’s the added problem of very few professional contractors being able to service it. Knob and tube wiring went out of vogue in the early 20 ^th century, after the invention and widespread application of wiring insulation. Those few contractors that do service knob and tube wiring are not all of the same quality. If you trust the wrong contractor to handle your wiring for you, you may end up in an even worse position.

Finally, there’s the issue with the age of the wiring. Since knob and tube wiring hasn’t been used for decades, chances are good that any knob and tube wiring that you have is quite old. The older the wiring is, the more likely it will be to have issues develop with it. For all of these reasons, you should have any knob and tube wiring in your home replaced immediately.

Anderson Electric Corp offers knob and tube wiring services in Caldwell, NJ. If you need your knob and tube wiring replaced, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert electricians.

Electrical Panel in Trouble? Get It Fixed by Anderson Electric

Mon, 23 Oct 2017 15:00:00 GMT

Constant Tripping

Typically, the most interaction a homeowner has with their electrical panel is to reset it after it breaks a circuit. This could involve replacing a fuse, or just resetting a switch to complete the circuit again. Typically, a circuit breaker activates because the circuit is overloaded. Unplugging a few things before resetting the circuit should solve the problem. However, if the panel keeps tripping the same circuit after being reset, you might have a bigger problem. That could mean that there is an issue with the circuit breaker, or with the circuit itself. Either way, you need to make sure that you have an electrician examine it as quickly as possible.

Smoking or Burning Smell

This should be an obvious one, but there are a few things that you should still know. If smoke is coming out of your electrical panel, or you smell something burning, DO NOT TOUCH THE PANEL! Call an electrician as soon as possible, so that they can take care of it for you. This could signify an extremely dangerous problem, one that you should have taken care of as quickly as possible.

Failure to Reset

Similar to the constant tripping issue, you should call an electrician if your panel doesn’t seem to want to reset at all. There could be a number of different causes for this kind of failure, none of which should go unaddressed. Make sure that you have a professional check it out as soon as you can.

Not Tripping at All

The entire purpose of an electrical panel is to break an electrical circuit when the current moving through it is too strong. A circuit that has too much power moving though it is more likely to have serious issues, like wires melting, that might start fires or cause injuries. Listen for a buzzing sound coming from your electrical panel, as that can indicate that there is too much power flowing through the circuit. A panel that can’t actually break a circuit when necessary is more of a hindrance than a help, so have it checked out as soon as you suspect that it’s having this problem.

Anderson Electric Corp. provides electrical services of all kinds in Caldwell, NJ. If you need help with your electrical panel, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert electricians. We’ll make sure that your panel is able to continue protecting your home.

Electrical Panel Troubleshooting | Anderson Electric Corp.

Mon, 09 Oct 2017 15:00:00 GMT

Constant Tripping

When a circuit breaker trips, it’s typically because the circuit is overloaded. Someone plugged in too many appliances, or there was a minor power surge for some reason, and the panel shut the circuit down to prevent any serious harm. In cases like these, the solution is typically to just unplug some appliances and reset the circuit. That is often enough to fix the issue. If your circuit breaker is constantly tripping, though, that’s a more serious issue.

There could be a number of different reasons why your circuit breaker won’t reset properly. It’s possible that the circuit is simply still overloaded. It’s also possible that there’s a short circuit or other issue in the wiring itself, which the breaker is detecting. However, it’s also possible that the issue is located in the breaker box itself. You’ll need to have an electrician look at it, which we recommend you schedule as soon as you notice this happening.

Burning Smells

As a rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to vacate the area if you ever smell something burning in the vicinity of electrical equipment. The same holds true for your electrical panel. If you smell a strong burning stench coming from the panel, do not open it . There could be a short circuit or other issue causing the panel to malfunction. Just back away, and call an electrician immediately. If you see any actual flames, you should obviously call emergency services first to make sure it doesn’t spread to the rest of the house.

Failure to Trip

When a circuit breaker begins to malfunction, it may fail to trip even when it’s supposed to. Listen for a buzzing noise coming from your electrical panel. This can happen when there’s an increased electrical current flowing through the panel, high enough that it should trip to cut it off. An electrical panel that won’t trip is very dangerous, and should be repaired as quickly as possible to continue protecting the rest of the home. Make sure you call an electrician right away if this happens.

Anderson Electric Corp. offers comprehensive electrical services in West Orange, NJ. If you need help with your electrical panel, one of our expert technicians can take care of it for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment . We’ll make sure your electrical system is safe and efficient.

Limit Risk of Electrical Problems - Anderson Electric

Mon, 25 Sep 2017 15:00:00 GMT

Have an Electrician Check the System

Because we rely on our home’s electrical power most of the day, every day, we tend to take it for granted that it will work. It’s this kind of complacency that makes it possible for severe electrical problems to occur in the system. Most kinds of electrical issues start small, then quickly develop into more severe problems. You aren’t likely to notice when your system first starts having trouble, which isn’t good. You don’t want your first warning of an electrical issue to be when it starts a house fire. So, that’s why you need to make sure that you have an electrician examine it at least once every year or two.

Regular examinations allow your electrician to pinpoint any developing problems, and solve them before they have the chance to get any worse. Not only can you save potentially thousands of dollars in repair costs by catching these problems early, but you can help protect your home and yourself at the same time.

Install GFCI or AFCI Outlets

One of the two biggest risks that electrical issues pose is that of electrocution. This can happen due to touching frayed wires, or coming into contact with a damaged appliance. However, it most often happens at the outlet. Installing a GFCI outlet is the best way to protect yourself and your family against electrocution in this manner.

A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet monitors the flow of electricity through itself. If the electrical current suddenly starts to behave erratically (like it might be flowing into a person instead of an electrical appliance) the GFCI outlet will instantly shut down the current. This is an excellent way to protect against accidental exposure to the home’s electrical power.

The other major risk that electrical issues pose is that of fires. This often happens when a short circuit diverts the electrical current into something flammable, which could be anything from carpet to the drywall. This can also occur inside the wall, which is especially dangerous, since it can go unnoticed until it has spread. An AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet works just like a GFCI, but focused on the current in the wall. If a short circuit occurs, the AFCI detects it and shuts down the current.

Anderson Electric Corp. offers comprehensive electrical services in Montclair, NJ. If you need electrical services of any kind, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert electricians.

Generator Maintenance: Keep Your System Running Smoothly

Mon, 11 Sep 2017 15:00:00 GMT

Catching Problems as Early as Possible

Plenty of systems don’t display obvious signs of a problem until they’ve had plenty of time to develop. With a heater or air conditioner, that’s not that big of an issue. You might have to pay a bit more to repair a more advanced problem, but generally you’ll realize that the system has an issue in time to prevent the worst of it. With a generator, though, allowing a problem to go undetected can make things quite a bit worse. A generator is an emergency system. It has to work when the time comes. You don’t want to find out that your generator has an issue when a power outage occurs and the system doesn’t work. Stumbling around in the dark because your generator has a problem and didn’t warn you is not a fun place to be.

Preventive maintenance gives your technician the chance to find any potential problem areas in your system, and resolve them before they get any worse. Having this done on a regular basis not only prevents your generator from having more issues develop, but helps it to run better, as well. You can potentially save thousands of dollars on repair costs over the life of your generator by scheduling preventive maintenance on a regular basis.

When to Schedule Generator Maintenance

You probably don’t have to use your generator more than a few times a year, but those times are probably concentrated in storm season. Any amount of preventive maintenance on an annual basis is better than not scheduling it at all. However, it’s a good idea to schedule your maintenance appointments right before you expect to have to use the generator every year. This ensures that your generator is in the best possible condition to cope with possibly having to run for an extended period of time.

Anderson Electric Corp. provides comprehensive generator maintenance services throughout Clifton, NJ. If you need generator services of any kind, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experts. We’ll make sure that your generator is in the best possible shape this season.

Don't Do Your Own Electrical Work - Hire Professional Electrician

Mon, 28 Aug 2017 15:00:00 GMT

Risks of Poor Electrical Work

Let’s face it: without professional training and equipment, there is a not-insubstantial chance that you’ll wire something incorrectly. Bad electrical work creates a number of risks for problems to occur. House fires, for example. Incorrect wiring can result in the electrical current traveling in directions that it’s not supposed to, like into the dry wall. This can cause house fires very easily.

The other issue with improper electrical wiring is that it can present great personal risk to your person. The average home has more than enough electrical current running through it to cause serious injury or death. Professional electricians are incredibly careful to avoid accidental exposure to the current for this reason. If you attempt it yourself, the chances of your exposure to the current are much higher. It’s much safer for both yourself and your home to rely on a professional electrician to handle your electrical work for you.

When to Call for Electrical Work

Okay, so what qualifies as electrical work that you should trust an electrician with? Well, does the project require messing around with electrical wires that are connected to the home’s power grid? If so, you need a professional electrician to handle it for you. Some common situations include:

Anderson Electric Corp. provides a full range of electrical repair services throughout Wayne, NJ . If you need electrical services of any kind, we can help you out. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert electricians. We’ll make sure that your electrical system is in the best possible shape.

Generator Repair Services - Anderson Electric Corp.

Mon, 14 Aug 2017 15:00:00 GMT

Low Power Flow

It’s always a good idea to test your generator a few times a year, just to make sure that it’s operating properly. If you have a whole-house generator, this might mean scheduling professional preventive maintenance for it. If you have a portable generator, it’s something that you can do yourself. Turn the generator on, and run it for a little while to make sure that everything is running smoothly. If the system seems to be having trouble supplying as much power as it normally does, then it’s a sign that you should probably have a professional take a look at it as quickly as possible.

Failure to Start

Again, this is one of those things that you really don’t want to be blindsided with when the power goes out. Failure to start could mean any number of things. If you have a portable generator, and you haven’t been cycling out the fuel in it, it’s possible that the gas inside has just gone bad (yes, that can actually happen!) Bad fuel is more than just useless for starting the generator, it also gums up the inner mechanism of the machine.

This can make the generator difficult to start, even if you replace the old fuel. If you have an automatic whole-house generator, it could mean that you have a problem with the gas line or the electrical system. It could also mean that you have a dead battery, which will need to be replaced. If your generator fails to start after multiple attempts, you should call for repairs as soon as possible.

Constant Starting and Stopping

If your generator does successfully start, but can’t seem to stay operating for more than a couple of minutes. Again, this could be caused by any number of things, including some factors we’ve already discussed. Low fuel, bad fuel, blocked lines, a failing battery, electrical issues, and the like can all cause inconsistent generator performance.

It’s also possible that your generator is actually overheating, and shutting down as a safety measure once the temperature surpasses the established safety threshold. This might mean that your system has a coolant problem, caused by a leak or some other issue. You’ll need to have a professional examine your system to know for certain.

Anderson Electric Corp. provides a full range of generator repair services in Caldwell, NJ . If you need generator repair or maintenance services of any kind, we can help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert electricians. We’ll make sure that your generator is there for you when you need it.

Improve Efficiency with Commercial Electrical Renovations

Mon, 31 Jul 2017 15:00:00 GMT

Commercial Lighting

Commercial properties are more dependent on specific lighting configurations than residences are. Not only are there codes to meet in terms of safety and the like, but the kind of lighting you have on your commercial property can have a big effect on the success of your business. Commercial lighting can bring more people in, highlight the products that you want to sell, and even just establish a welcoming atmosphere. If you’re not pleased with the current state of your commercial lighting, you should have a look at the various options we offer.

Breaker Panels

As we mentioned above, commercial buildings have a lot more strain put on their electrical systems than residential ones. It’s very important that you have the systems in place to keep your electrical system running properly, both for safety and efficiency. Upgrading to a better breaker panel is a very good idea if you know that your current one has been in use for a while. Electrical panel upgrades can add more safety features, and help your system to operate more cost-effectively.

Generators

Power outages are an unfortunate part of operating in an area with a deteriorating electrical grid. If you happen to have an issue with power outages in your area, it’s a good idea to have an electrical generator installed in your building. That way, if the power decides to go out during peak business hours, you don’t have to lose money waiting for the lights to come back on. There are a wide variety of different commercial generators on the market today, so you can find the perfect one to meet your commercial business needs.

Smoke Detectors

When it comes to building fires, early detection goes a long way towards saving property and lives. If you don’t have enough smoke detectors installed in your business, or the ones you have are pretty old, don’t risk keeping things as they are. Have more modern smoke detectors installed, so you can rest assured that your building is as protected as possible when it comes to fires. This is one area where you really don’t want to cut corners, as it can cost you far more than your building.

Anderson Electric Corp. offers comprehensive commercial electrical services in West Orange, NJ . If you have a need for commercial electrical services of any kind, from repair to maintenance, upgrades, or replacement, we can help you out. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert technicians. We’ll make sure you get the commercial electrical solution you need.

Upgrade to a 200 Amp Service Panel - Anderson Electric

Mon, 17 Jul 2017 15:00:00 GMT

The kind of meter panel that your home uses can actually have a pretty big impact on the efficiency of your various systems, especially if most of them are electrical. If you’re using a 100 amp electrical panel right now, you might want to consider upgrading to a 200 amp panel. Let’s have a look at some of the advantages you can garner from upgrading your panel.

Greater Electrical Flow

Capacity is one of the biggest differences between 100 and 200 amp panels. The larger the panel, the more electrical current your home can receive from the city’s power grid. This is important if you have a lot of electrical appliances in your home, like furnaces and stoves.

Even if you don’t have quite as many large electrical systems, it might be a good idea to upgrade if you use a lot of electrical appliances. Your TV, refrigerator, and the like need electricity to function, too. Upgrading to a 200 amp panel will make more electrical power available to appliances that need it, boosting their efficiency and effectiveness.

More Circuits

200 amp service panels are also physically larger than their older, 100 amp counterparts. This is because they have more circuits, which is a big advantage in a home that uses a lot of electricity. You don’t want to cram a bunch of systems and appliances on to a small number of circuits if you don’t have to, as it increases the chance of overloading them. A lower overload chance means a safer electrical system overall, one less prone to fires and short circuits. For this reason alone, it is probably a good idea to upgrade to a larger amp service panel.

Home Age

If you are living in an older home, chances are you have a lower amp panel. 200 has been the standard for most homes since the ‘80s. If you live in a home constructed in prior decades, though, you should definitely have a professional examine your panel to see if it’s worth replacing. Even if you do live in a more modern home, it’s possible that you don’t have a 200 amp service panel installed. If you don’t know how to identify the size of the panel, have a professional evaluate it for you and see if they recommend an upgrade. No harm in making sure, after all.

Anderson Electric Corp. provides a full range of electrical service panel upgrades in Montclair, NJ . Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert electricians. We’ll make sure that your home gets the best electric service panel for your needs.

Keep Your Generator in Top Condition with Preventive Maintenance

Mon, 03 Jul 2017 15:00:00 GMT

Generators can develop issues just as often as any other system, and have their own unique issues to consider. If you want to keep your generator in top condition year-round, there is one major step you need to take: schedule preventive maintenance.

The Importance of Preventive Maintenance

The vast majority of issues with HVAC and plumbing systems don’t display any kind of warning symptoms when they first develop. For air conditioners and heaters, this often means not noticing a problem until it starts to threaten the operation of the system. In the case of climate control systems, that might mean that you go without heating or cooling for a bit until you can get it fixed. With generators, though, a problem has the potential to be quite a bit worse.

Generators are emergency systems. They need to work when called upon. Since you probably don’t use your generator all the time, though, you have even less chance of noticing a problem before it starts to threaten the system. If the generator develops a serious issue during the course of the year, you may not realize it until a power outage occurs and your system refuses to function. That’s obviously not what you want to happen.

Preventive maintenance allows your technician to closely examine the generator’s system for any signs of an issue. Problem areas can be resolved quickly, before they have the chance to develop far enough to threaten the system. If you’re consistent about scheduling preventive maintenance at least once a year, you can both lower repair costs and dramatically increase the efficiency of your generator.

When to Schedule Generator Maintenance

Scheduling generator maintenance any time during the year is better than not scheduling it at all. However, there are certain times when preventive maintenance is more effective than at other times. Typically, the best time to schedule preventive maintenance for your generator is right before the time of year when power outages are most likely to occur. If you make sure that your generator receives professional maintenance services shortly before it’s expected to see some use, there is less opportunity for problems to develop in the interim.

As we mentioned above, though, it’s far better to have preventive maintenance done later than not to have it done at all. Even if you’ve already had a power outage or two this year, and your system has worked fine, you should have a professional examine it anyway. You’ll be glad you did.

Anderson Electric Corp. provides a full range of generator services throughout Clifton, NJ. If you need help keeping your generator in good condition, contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Should You Install Generator at Home? Pros & Cons Explained

Mon, 19 Jun 2017 15:00:00 GMT

You Live in an Area With a Spotty Power Grid

Unfortunately, infrastructure of all kinds throughout the country is not in the best shape. This includes the power grid, which is in dire need of upgrading and will often fail in some locations. If you happen to live in an area that experiences frequent power outages due to an unreliable power grid, it might be a good idea to consider installing a generator on your property. It won’t prevent all of the inconvenience caused by a power outage, but at least you won’t have to sit in the dark and wait for the lights to come back on.

You Need Constant Power

For most people, the occasional loss of power is never anything more than an inconvenience. Not everyone is in that position, though. For some, like those with electrical servers or sensitive medical equipment, a power loss of even a few minutes can spell disaster. If you’re in that kind of position, it’s definitely a good idea to invest in a generator for those times when the power cuts out. You can even get a generator powerful enough to keep everything operating for hours or days at a time, ensuring that none but the most severe outages will be able to cause a meaningful interruption in power.

You’re Concerned About Safety

Power outages present a number of safety concerns, both minor and not so minor. The most common issue with power outages is that it can be dangerous to walk around in the dark in your home. You don’t want to fall and hurt yourself after all. The second issue is that a power outage presents temptations and opportunities for others of a less scrupulous nature. Most crimes are crimes of opportunity, which means that by keeping your lights on you might be able to dissuade someone who might otherwise think it a good idea to try something illegal.

You Just Want to Avoid Obnoxious Power Outages!

Even if you don’t have concerns like those listed above, it’s perfectly okay to want to avoid the terrible inconvenience of power outages. Some areas can experience power outages for hours every year, which is more than enough justification to install a generator if you have the money and space for one. Consult with a professional about whether or not a generator would be right for your home.

Anderson Electric Corp. offers a full range of generator services throughout Wayne, NJ . If you need a generator installed, repaired, maintained, or replaced, we can help you out. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Upgrade Your Kitchen with Electrical Renovations

Mon, 05 Jun 2017 15:00:00 GMT

Lighting

You probably spend a good deal of time in your kitchen and bathroom. Part of the reason those areas are renovated so often is because they see a lot of traffic. Seeing as how you spend so much time in these places, it’s probably a good idea to invest in some proper lighting for them. Good lighting is vital for both ensuring the safety of those using the space, and increasing aesthetic appeal at the same time.

Recessed lights are very popular for both kitchens and bathrooms. They provide more than enough light to keep the space bright and cozy, without taking up that much space. This is especially advantageous for bathrooms, which for most people are anything but cavernous. Undercabinet lighting is another popular addition for both spaces, as the kitchen and bathroom tend to feature a lot of storage space. Nobody likes to pull everything out from under their sink just to find the one item they were looking for. A light installed in the proper place can make times like that quite a bit easier for you.

Appliance Receptacles

It can be difficult enough to find enough open counter space for appliances in your kitchen or bathroom without crisscrossing wires all over the place. Since you probably don’t have as much space available to you as you would in other parts of your home, it’s a good idea to install some upgrades that will make organizing your various appliances easier. This might include installing additional outlets, receptacles, and other electrical terminals. Which terminals you choose should depend on the layout of the room, and the appliances that you use in it on a regular basis. Consult with a professional to help determine the ideal upgrade for you.

As with any electrical work, it’s important to find the best electrical contractor you can to handle it for you. Never attempt to do your own electrical work, as it can be quite dangerous to deal with the electrical system without professional training and equipment. If you need electrical work of any kind done on your bathroom or kitchen, consult with a professional before having anything installed. Your contractor might be able to suggest additional upgrades that would further benefit your home.

Anderson Electric Corp. provides a full range of electrical services for kitchens and bathrooms in Caldwell, NJ . If you need electrical services of any kind, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experts. We’ll make sure that your kitchen and bathroom have the perfect electrical solutions.

Reset Circuit Breaker in Your Home - Anderson Electric

Mon, 22 May 2017 15:00:00 GMT

The circuit breaker is designed to automatically cut off the electrical current running through part of your home in case it becomes overloaded. Once whatever is causing the overload is resolved, resetting the circuit breaker allows you to get back to your routine quickly. You need to know how to properly reset things, though, or you may end up making the problem worse.

Unplug Everything

The majority of the time, when a circuit breaker trips it’s because there are simply too many appliances placing demands on that particular circuit. So, before you actually go to reset the circuit breaker, you should unplug everything that’s on that circuit. If the reason the breaker tripped is simple overload, doing this will prevent it from immediately tripping again as soon as you reset it. Then, you can slowly add appliances back onto the circuit to make sure it doesn’t overload.

Open Your Circuit Breaker and Reset the Circuit

Locate your circuit breaker and open it. Look for a switch that has moved from the on position to the off position. It’s also possible for the switch to get stuck between the positions. If that’s the case, move the switch fully into the off position. Then, move it fully over to the on position. This should immediately restore power to the circuit.

Monitor the Circuit

As we mentioned above, once power is restored to the circuit you should slowly add appliances until everything is back to normal. If the circuit continues to trip, especially if it’s happening without that many appliances putting a load on it, it could very well mean that you have a more significant issue with your electrical system that needs to be addressed. You might also have an issue with the circuit breaker itself, which can be significantly worse. Circuit breaker issues are especially dangerous because the system is a safety device. Most issues with the electrical system can at least be prevented from causing serious harm by the circuit breaker. If the circuit breaker malfunctions, though, there will be very little to protect your home’s electrical system.

If you suspect that your circuit breaker keeps tripping because of a deeper issue than simple power surges or overloads, you need to have a professional examine the system as soon as possible. You don’t want to risk electrocution or house fire, after all.

Anderson Electric Corp. provides comprehensive electrical repair services throughout West Orange , NJ . If you need electrical services of any kind, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experts. We’ll make sure that your electrical system stays in good condition.

Exterior Lighting Solution for Your Home | Anderson Electric

Mon, 08 May 2017 15:00:00 GMT

LED Lighting

Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) have gained immense popularity throughout the world, for a number of reasons. They’re versatile, bright, and energy efficient. In fact, they can consume up to 90% less power than the typical incandescent bulb. LEDs can be adapted to all kinds of lighting uses, from safety, to atmospheric, to entertainment. Regardless of what you want to do with your exterior lighting, LEDs can almost certainly work for you. As you read through the options below, keep in mind that you can find LED variants for them to further increase your savings.

Landscape Lighting

The main reason that people want to implement exterior lighting is to highlight the surrounding landscape. This is both for aesthetic and practical reasons, especially if you want to entertain guests in the evening. It’s hard to host a barbeque after sunset if no one can see where they’re going. Options for landscape lighting are varied, from spotlights to more low-key in-ground variants used for walkways. Whether you want to light up your entire property at night, or just want to make sure that you can traverse your property safely, there are many ways to implement landscape lighting for your home.

Security Lighting

Studies have shown a clear correlation between home invasions and burglaries and low-light conditions. People are more likely to commit a crime if they know there’s a lower chance of being seen. So, it’s a pretty good idea to make sure that your home’s exterior is as well-lit as possible in certain areas. Security lighting can be implemented in a number of different ways, from motion-capture lights in the back yard to solar powered lamps above every door. If the exterior of your home is brightly lit, there is a much lower chance that someone will think it’s a good idea to commit some sort of illegal activity in the area. So, make sure that you have a good array of security lighting installed as soon as possible. You get to have peace of mind about your property, and you’ll even be able to find your house key without fumbling around in the dark.

Anderson Electric Corp offers comprehensive exterior lighting installation services in Montclair, NJ . If you need to have some exterior lighting installed on your property, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert electricians. No matter what your exterior lighting needs are, we can make sure that they are properly met.

Signs Your Electrical System Needs Repairs - Call Us Now!

Mon, 24 Apr 2017 15:00:00 GMT

Flickering Lights/Appliance Stuttering

Everyone has probably experienced the whole flickering lights phenomenon, maybe during a storm or brown out. Perhaps you’ve also had to deal with appliances seeming to lose power sporadically. When it’s just one light or appliance, this might be explained by an electrical issue inside the unit itself. If the problem seems to affect a large area of your home, however, you should be more concerned.

Widespread power fluctuations are often the result of an electrical short somewhere in the system. This is causing the current to flow in directions that it isn’t supposed to, leading to uneven power distribution. Electrical short circuits, especially in walls, are known as a leading cause of house fire. So, if you notice this happening you should call for professional repair services right away.

Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping

The circuit breaker is a very important safety mechanism for your electrical system. It’s designed to break any circuit that is carrying too much power, protecting the system from becoming damaged in the process. It’s not a big deal if your circuit breaker trips every once in a while. Typically, it just means that you’ve overloaded that particular circuit. Unplugging a few appliances and resetting the circuit is usually enough to fix the problem. However, if your circuit breaker keeps tripping after you’ve reset it, there’s probably a deeper issue that needs to be dealt with. It could be that your circuit breaker itself is having issues, or that there’s something specifically wrong with that circuit that is causing it to go off. Either way, it’s not something that you should ignore.

Hot Spots

One of the fundamental characteristics of an electrical current is that if it meets resistance, it throws off some energy as heat. This is the core concept behind an electrical stove, where the current is run through a material designed to divert as much of it as heat as possible. This can also be a warning sign that you have an electrical problem. Hot spots on the walls, especially around light switches, can indicate that a wire is meeting resistance where there shouldn’t be any. The current is being diverted into the walls, which can spark a fire. Definitely have an electrician examine your system as soon as possible if you notice this. Please note that, in the case of dimmer switches a bit more heat is part of normal operation. Only call for repairs then if they become uncomfortably warm, or you notice them beginning to melt.

Anderson Electric Corp. offers comprehensive electrical repair services throughout Clifton, NJ . If your electrical system is acting up, contact us today for an appointment.

Generator Options - Find the Best Generator for Your Needs

Mon, 10 Apr 2017 15:00:00 GMT

Portable Generators

In a perfect world, everyone would have the space and resources to run an automatic standby generator. Of course, in a perfect world there would be no power outages. If you don’t have the space for a large automatic standby generator, or you just don’t have power needs great enough to justify it, a portable generator may be a good choice. Portable generators are commonly stored in the garage when not in use, as they’re much smaller than a standby generator. They’re most commonly powered by gasoline, and are activated manually. In the event of a power outage, you just have to plug the generator into your home’s electrical system and start it up. Keep in mind that the generator should not be left to run indoors, as carbon monoxide emissions are dangerous in enclosed spaces.

Portable generators typically do not generate enough power for every appliance in the home, but that isn’t what they’re used for. If you just need to keep the lights on, a portable generator is a good option. If you want more power, though, you’re going to need to install a bigger generator.

Automatic Standby Generators

Automatic standby generators are larger systems, designed to provide enough power to run the entire house for many hours at a time. They’re permanent fixtures, and are installed outside the home. Rather than being powered by gasoline, the system typically has its own natural gas supply. An automatic standby generator monitors the flow of electrical current through the home’s system. In the event of a power outage, the generator automatically activates and begins to power the home. This is a big improvement over a portable generator, since you don’t have to stumble around in the dark to manually activate the system. Having an automatic standby generator also means you don’t have to worry about the fuel source going bad. Gasoline actually gets stale as it ages, but with natural gas the system is much more reliable.

Of course, you have to have the space to accommodate a large system like that. If you don’t have the need for that much power, it’s also kind of a waste to install a standby generator. Otherwise, a standby generator might be the perfect system for your needs.

Anderson Electric Corp offers comprehensive generator installation services in Wayne, NJ . If you need generator services of any kind, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experts. We’ll make sure that you get the best generator for your needs.

Upgrade Your Electrical System for Safety and Efficiency

Mon, 27 Mar 2017 15:00:00 GMT

Circuit Breaker

Your home very likely has either a circuit breaker or a fuse box installed in it, in order to protect against power surges that might damage appliances. If you have a fuse box, you should ask your electrician about whether or not you would be better served by a circuit breaker. There are pros and cons to each, but circuit breakers are often preferred for a number of reasons. For one, there are no disposable parts of a circuit breaker. When a switch in the breaker box trips, it’s relatively simple to reset it. With a fuse box, you need to replace the burnt out fuse entirely. For another, circuit breakers can be used with GFCI’s, while fuse boxes cannot.

GFCI/AFCI Outlets

GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. AFCI stands for Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter. These two outlet types are designed to improve the safety of your electrical system. A GFCI outlet monitors the flow of electrical current between it and any appliances plugged into it. Under normal circumstances, the electrical current is balanced. If there is a sudden imbalance in the current, it usually means that the electricity is flowing in a direction that it is not supposed to be (like into a person). When the outlet senses this, it shuts off the current. This helps to prevent electrocution, but can also prevent fires from breaking out due to a short circuit in an appliance.

AFCI outlets, by contrast, are designed to prevent electrical issues from causing damage inside the walls. When there is a melted wire or short circuit in the walls, the current can flow in the wrong direction and ignite a fire. This is perhaps one of the most dangerous problems that can afflict an electrical system. AFCI outlets monitor the circuit, and shut it down if they detect behavior indicating a short circuit somewhere.

Generators

The infrastructure in our country is in deep trouble in a lot of areas. The power grid, especially, is not what it once was. This is especially problematic during storm season, when blackouts are more common. If your home experiences a few blackouts a year, it might be a good idea to have a generator installed. A standby generator will be able to keep the lights on until the power comes back. Consult with a professional to determine which generator might fit your needs best.

Anderson Electric Corp. provides electrical services of all kinds throughout Caldwell, NJ . If you need electrical services of any kind, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experts.

Replace Knob and Tube Wiring - Keep Your Home Safe

Mon, 27 Feb 2017 16:00:00 GMT

What is Knob and Tube Wiring?

Invented in the late 19 ^th century, and phased out in the mid-20 ^th , knob and tube wiring was one of the first methods for outfitting a private residence with electricity. It consisted of suspending uninsulated wires inside the walls using porcelain knobs. These knobs ensured that the wires did not come into contact with the walls, which could cause a fire. In those areas where the wire had to pass through a wall, it would be surrounded by a tube with a type of cloth sleeve in it. Hence the name “knob and tube” wiring.

This was quite the innovative technology in the late 1800’s, but by the mid-1900’s the growing installation of insulated wiring caused knob and tube wiring to be phased out. However, there are still plenty of older homes in use today that use knob and tube wiring.

The Dangers of Knob and Tube Wiring

Aside from the fact that some of this stuff is likely over a century old , knob and tube wiring is still pretty unsafe. Uninsulated wiring is not something that you ever want to use if you have another option. The odds of something accidentally contacting the wire, causing a short and possibly sparking a fire, are very high. This risk climbs even higher when you consider that the wires used in this system are not rated to handle the standard electrical load being placed on systems in the 21 ^st century. In the first part of the 20 ^th century, the average home obviously used quite a bit less power than what we do today. That extra load takes its toll over time, and putting that much voltage through an old wire that was never designed for it is a great way to cause serious problems.

Replacing Knob and Tube Wiring

Knob and tube wiring can be time consuming to replace, and can require a big investment if a large part of your home uses it. However, the cost to replace the system is always worth it compared to the damage that old knob and tube wiring can cause. If you know that part of your home uses knob and tube wiring, don’t wait to have it replaced. Do it now so you don’t have to worry about it later.

Anderson Electric Corp. offers knob and tube replacement services throughout Montclair, NJ . If you need electrical services of any kind, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experts.

Anderson Electric - Your Suburban Essex Power Broker

Mon, 30 Jan 2017 20:22:00 GMT

By Cynthia Rositano, photos by Dan Epstein

https://issuu.com/vicinity/docs/essex_0416se (page #23)

Hiring an experience electrician entails more than flipping a switch. The licensed, insured and filled training electrician of Anderson electric company bring over 20 years of experience to every project, ensuring quality work every time.

Anderson electric is a full service residential and commercial contractor. “Whether you require the installation of ceiling fans for back-up generators, upgrades to electrical services or landscape light that accentuates your home’s architectural uniqueness, we are there every step of the way to ensure your satisfaction,” says owner George Anderson, who is involved with all projects.

The company specializes in know and tube wires upgrade. Anderson explain that many homes built between the 1880’s through the 1940’s have this wiring system, now obsolete and a fire hazard. “Upgrading us a worthwhile investment for homeowners, especially those considering selling their homes.” In fact, most insurance companies require the upgrade before issuing a policy on a home with this type of wiring.

Anderson Electric also excels in green energy solutions. Asked for a green tip, Anderson recommences switch to LED blubs, which have lengthy lifespans, are virtually maintenance free and are a more environmentally friendly option than traditional incandescent and compact florescent light bulbs (CFLs). Making the switch can reduce energy consumption by almost 70 percent.

In addition, the company is a certified Generac generator dealer and service provider. Anderson encourages homeowners to install a back-up generator, saying, “Power loss is a year-round concern.” A generator can prevent a water damage nightmare caused by non-working sump pumps and pipes that freeze then burst due to lack of heat.

As the winner of the 2015 Best Electrician Award, Anderson Electric stands behind its reputation as the Suburban Essex Magazine readers #1 choice for Electrical Contractors by providing the best service and installation for all of their customers. For Expert Electrical Service and installation contact Anderson Electric at 973-857-4333 or visit them at www.AndersonElectric.com to learn more about their full range of services.

Latest HVAC Technology Updates | Anderson Electric Corp Blog

Mon, 23 Jan 2017 13:00:00 GMT

Be sure to bookmark the Anderson Electric Corp. blog for updates on the latest advances in electrical, generator, and commercial electrical technology.

We’ll feature money saving promotions here as well.

Call Anderson Electric Corp. for all your electrical, generator, and commercial electrical technology needs.

Welcome to Our New Website

Mon, 23 Jan 2017 12:50:00 GMT