Blog Archives

Water and Electricity Don’t Mix

7/23/2019

Have you ever been shocked by your appliance when you touch it with wet hands? Or, when you use electronic items too close to water? Having an outlet by the bathroom or kitchen sink increases this risk.

To prevent accidental electrocution, the Canadian Electrical Code requires ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets installed in all wet or damp locations such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, basements, garages and outdoor receptacles.

GFCIs are so sensitive that they will trip at 5-milliamperes which is sensitive enough to protect an infant's heart from electrocution!

How does GFCI work?
When an appliance or device is plugged in, electricity moves from the hot to neutral poles in the circuit and everything runs smoothly. But if a toaster, for example, is dropped in water, it creates a ground fault with the electricity escaping and anything or anyone that happens to be in the way.

A GFCI outlet has a built-in circuit breaker that interrupts the flow of electricity the instant it senses a ground fault or current escaping from the circuit. But a GFCI must be connected properly to protect other outlets on the same circuit.

If you need a GFCI checked or installed OR If your electrical system has not been upgraded for 20 years or more, contact First Aid Electric's licensed electricians to install them for you to keep you and your family out of harms way.

Call 403-250-9301 or submit your request online.

IMPORTANT TIP: Test your GFCIs monthly to ensure they are providing protection. Press the TEST button, then RESET button. If the indicator light does not go out and come back on, or if the GFCI cannot be reset, it must be replaced.

We’re available 24/7
403.250.9301

First Aid Electric Calgary electricians are ready for any emergency electrical repairs, as well as, electrical outlet/switch repair, tamper-resistant receptacles (TRR) installation, dimmer installation, ceiling fan installation, recessed pot lights pendant lighting installation, outdoor landscape lighting installation, wiring repair, and home electrical inspections. Call us today at 403-250-9301.

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Protect Your Home from Power Spikes

7/15/2019

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Have you noticed the incredible lighting shows we've had this summer?

Your home is full of electronics such as your refrigerator, oven, microwave, televisions, computers, chargers for smartphones, and on and on. These devices contain delicate circuit boards that can be easily damaged by a surge or a spike in the electrical grid.

In Calgary, most homeowners think that lighting or snow storms are rare so there is no need for a whole house surge protector. However, a power surge can occur when a high-power electrical device such as an air conditioner, space heater or power tool kicks on. It sends a spark along the electrical current which then transfers to the rest of the plugged-in devices in your home and damages them. Other more common causes include utility grid switching or other users on the power line.

You may think that an APC or power strip that plugs into a wall outlet is sufficient but these devices are not enough to stop large voltage spikes.

That’s why you need whole house surge protectors!

Take a minute to add up the cost of replacing ALL of the electrical devices in your home. Now consider installing affordable whole house surge protectors.

Contact First Aid Electric Calgary electricians to install whole house surge protectors. They are the cheapest insurance!

We’re available 24/7
403.250.9301

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July 15 is National Pet Fire Safety Day

7/1/2019

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Pet alert window cling

Every member of your household, including the furry ones, should be part of your fire emergency plan.

Decide who is responsible for evacuating each pet.
Pick up a pet alert window cling for first responders to know who's inside.
Keep collars on your pets.
Secure your pets away from possible fire hazards when you're out.
Keep leashes near entrances so firefighters can easily access them.

First Aid Electric Calgary electricians are ready for any electrical emergency repairs, as well as, electrical outlet/switch repair, tamper-resistant receptacles (TRR) installation, dimmer installation, ceiling fan installation, recessed pot lights pendant lighting installation, outdoor landscape lighting installation, wiring repair, and home electrical inspections. Call us today at 403-250-9301.

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Electrical Help

Water and Electricity Don’t Mix

Protect Your Home from Power Spikes

July 15 is National Pet Fire Safety Day

HOW MAY WE HELP YOU?

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