If your house is more than twenty five years old, there's a good chance that your existing electrical system is in need of some upgrades. Older homes were often built with 100 amps of electrical service or less, which was sufficient before most homes had microwave ovens, hair dyers and flat screen televisions. An upgrade will replace equipment that is obsolete or not up to code and bring enough power into your home to safely, efficiently power your appliances. An outdated electrical system poses a serious risk of fire or electrocution. Wiring that isn't properly grounded can also cause damage to your electronic devices during a lightning storm. If you experience any of the following warning signs, you should contact an Electric Service in Charlottesville, Virginia to inquire about an upgrade. Brownouts: A brownout is a partial blackout. It occurs when there is a drop in voltage in an electrical system. If you turn on an appliance and your lights dim, you're experiencing a brownout caused by a power shortage or mechanical failure. No GFCIs: Current building codes require ground-fault circuit interrupters within four feet of all sinks, as well as on any garage, basement or outdoor outlets. A GFCI cuts off the power supply to that outlet when it detects an imbalanced current. This is a fairly simple upgrade that can be done by an Electric Service in Palmyra, Virginia or nearby Charlottesville. Frequent Tripped Breakers: Circuit breakers are designed to trip when a circuit is overloaded. If yours trip frequently, it's a sign that your electrical supply is insufficient for your electrical needs. If you're experiencing other signs of a faulty or out-dated system and your breakers aren't tripping, that's also a problem. Breakers are an important safety mechanism. If they're not doing their job, it creates a serious fire hazard. Two-Prong Outlets Throughout Your Home: Two-prong outlets don't have ground wires to protect you and your appliances in the event of a ground fault. Not only are they a safety hazard, they're inconvenient. Most appliances today have three-prong plugs. If you're using adapters to plug three-prong appliances into two-prong receptacles, you should consider upgrading your system. An up-to-date system protects you and your family from the risks associated with electricity. It also protects your appliances and electronic equipment from harmful surges. If you're experiencing any signs of an inadequate system, call an Electric Service in Charlottesville, Virginia for a consultation. If you are in need of Electric Service in Charlottesville, Virginia then get in touch with Fitch services or visit: http://www.cooling-and-heating.net/
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