The soft chirp of a smoke detector is more than just a background noise; it’s a life-saving tool. Smoke detectors are indispensable in safeguarding our homes from potential fire hazards. The number of smoke detectors one needs primarily depends on the size and layout of the residence.

The Basics of Smoke Detectors:

At its core, a smoke detector is a device that senses smoke, typically an indicator of fire. There are primarily two types of smoke detectors:

• Photoelectric: These respond more quickly to smoldering fires by detecting the larger particles released by such fires.
• Ionization: These are faster at detecting flaming fires as they identify smaller particles.

Despite their differences, both types detect the presence of smoke. When smoke enters the detector chamber, it interrupts a path of light or electrical current, triggering the alarm.

Reasons for Having the Right Number of Smoke Detectors:

Ensuring that your home has adequate smoke detectors isn’t merely adhering to safety protocols—it’s a proactive approach to safeguarding what matters most.

• Increased Safety and Protection: More detectors mean a higher chance of early detection, which can be the difference between a minor incident and a major disaster.
• Faster Response Time in Emergencies: With detectors installed throughout a home, fires can be detected quicker, allowing for a swift evacuation.
• Minimize Property Damage: Early detection gives the occupants a better chance to extinguish the fire before it can cause significant damage.
• Peace of Mind for Occupants: Knowing that every corner of your home is under the vigilant watch of a smoke detector brings a profound sense of security.

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Guidelines:

The NFPA, a recognized authority on fire safety, has set forth guidelines that every homeowner should be acquainted with. Their recommendations, grounded in thorough research and expertise, provide a robust framework for smoke detector placement.

• Detectors in Every Sleeping Room: Since fires can occur at night when everyone is asleep, having a smoke detector in every bedroom is paramount for early detection.
• Detectors Outside Each Sleeping Area: Install detectors in the hallways or common areas outside bedrooms to maximize protection. This ensures that smoke is detected even before it reaches someone sleeping.
• One Detector on Every Level: From the basement to the attic, every level of a home should be equipped with at least one smoke detector. This ensures holistic protection against fires that might start on any floor.
• Larger Homes Need More: If your home has vast square footage, you might need more detectors than the average-sized home to cover every nook and cranny.

Factors to Consider When Determining Quantity:

Determining your home’s exact number of smoke detectors requires a more granular approach.

• Size Matters: A larger home naturally requires more detectors to cover its expanse effectively.
• Multiple Floors: Homes with numerous stories or levels warrant a detector on each floor.
• Room Count and Layout: An open-concept living area might need fewer detectors than a home segmented into many rooms.
• High-Risk Areas: Kitchens, garages, and basements, being prone to fires, should always have detectors. In kitchens, it’s best to install them away from cooking appliances to avoid false alarms.
• Architectural Features: Homes with vaulted ceilings, atriums, or unique architectural elements may require additional considerations to ensure effective smoke detection.

Proper Placement of Smoke Detectors:

Placing them correctly is crucial once you’ve determined how many detectors you need.

• Ceiling vs. Wall: Smoke rises. Thus, ceilings are the best spot for your detectors. If placing on a wall, ensure it’s close to the ceiling but not in the “dead air” space where walls and ceilings meet.
• Close to Fire Sources: Areas with potential fire hazards, like fireplaces or stoves (though not too close to avoid false alarms), should have a nearby detector.
• Avoiding False Alarms: Ensure detectors are away from windows, vents, or cooking areas that might trigger them unnecessarily.
• Interconnected Alarms: Modern homes often come with interconnected smoke alarms. When one detector is triggered, all alarms in the house sound off, ensuring quick evacuation.

Special Considerations:

When contemplating the number and type of smoke detectors, special considerations should be considered.

• Smoke Detectors for the Hearing Impaired: Traditional smoke detectors rely on auditory alarms, which may not be effective for people who are hard of hearing. However, specialized detectors equipped with strobe lights and bed shakers are available. These devices offer a tactile or visual alert, ensuring that those with hearing difficulties are alerted promptly in case of smoke detection.
• Integration with Home Security Systems: Modern homes often feature integrated security systems encompassing intrusion detection, fire alarms, and more. When a smoke detector is integrated into such a system, the central unit can alert the homeowner via phone or app and even notify the fire department automatically, enhancing response times.
• Smart Smoke Detectors: Smart home devices now include smoke detectors that offer various benefits. They can send alerts to your phone, be silenced from your device, and even inform you which room the smoke is coming from. Some models can differentiate between types of fires, offering a more nuanced response.
• Lifespan of a Smoke Detector: Like all electronic devices, smoke detectors have a finite lifespan. On average, they should be replaced every ten years. Moreover, if your detector frequently gives false alarms or doesn’t respond to tests, it may be a sign to replace it sooner.

Maintenance and Testing:

Owning a smoke detector isn’t a ‘set it and forget it’ scenario. Regular maintenance ensures they function correctly when you need them the most.

• Regularly Testing Your Smoke Detector: Every smoke detector has a test button. Testing your device at least once a month is recommended to ensure it’s operational.
• Replacing Batteries: Even if you don’t hear the low-battery chirp, replacing smoke detector batteries at least once a year is a good practice. For those with 10-year lithium batteries, replace the entire unit when the battery runs out.
• Cleaning and Dusting: Dust and debris can interfere with a detector’s operation. Gently vacuum around or over the detector regularly. Some models may also benefit from a light dusting.
• Replacing Outdated or Malfunctioning Detectors: Don’t compromise on safety. If a smoke detector is not working optimally, replace it. Keep in mind the 10-year lifespan and use it as a guide.

Conclusion:

There’s no overstating the significance of having the correct number of functional smoke detectors in your home. These unassuming devices guard our homes, offering an early warning system that can save lives and minimize property damage.

But simply having them isn’t enough. Like any tool, they require maintenance to perform optimally. Set reminders for regular testing, battery replacement, and device cleaning. Stay updated about the latest smoke detection technology; when the time comes, replace outdated units without hesitation.

Your home is not just bricks and beams; it’s memories, moments, and the people you love. So, take a moment to assess your home’s needs, ensuring a vigilant smoke detector shields every corner. Safety is more than just a precaution; it’s a commitment to the well-being of those we cherish.

There are two main reasons homeowners choose to upgrade their electrical panel. Typically, we get calls when a customer needs electrical work, like adding a new circuit for an electrical appliance like a new range, hot tub, or electric car charging station. A panel upgrade is often required when the existing circuits cannot handle the additional loads safely.

Another common reason is the age of the electrical panel. Electric panels typically need replacing every 25-40 years. Even if the panel has not reached this age yet, there may be warning signs that it needs replacement. These signs include:

• Lights flicker

• Circuit breakers that keep tripping

• Small electric shocks when touching appliances

• A burning smell

• Scorch marks or sparks coming from power outlets

• Warmth around the electric panel

If you notice any of these problems, call Streb Electric. We can inspect your electrical system, track down the source of the problem, and recommend solutions to ensure the system works correctly.

Even if the panel is in good working order and not very old, it may not meet the demands of today’s tech-filled home. With Smart devices, continual phone and laptop charging, screens in every room, and new electrical gadgets being added regularly, there’s more electricity demand than when the panel was installed twenty years ago. And electrical codes have changed over the past 40 years.

Do you find yourself using power strips or extension cords around your home? A lack of outlets is a common symptom of a home with an undersized electrical capacity. 

Fuse Box versus Circuit Breaker Panel

The significant difference between circuit breakers and fuses is that fuses are single-use. They work by melting when the current is too high. Replacing fuses is more costly and time-consuming than resetting a circuit breaker. Fuses can also present a fire hazard if not correctly matched to the circuit. 

While electricians no longer install fuse boxes, they are still found in some older homes and are a genuine safety concern. Sometimes insurance companies may refuse to cover your home or payout if you get coverage in the event of an electrical malfunction and fire. Having a fuse box in your home is one of the main reasons you should consider upgrading to a modern electrical panel.

Time to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel

1. Remodeling

When different parts of your electrical system are updated while remodeling your home, you must replace your breaker.

Replacing junction boxes and any old wiring can be a blessing in disguise. You’ll have a safer, more efficient electrical system that boosts your resale value.

2. Adding Appliances

In older homes, historically, there have been modest appliances installed. Your breaker will need to be updated as you remodel certain areas.

If you install an additional large freezer in the basement, your current panel may be unable to handle it.

An electrician can determine if your new home demands match your panel’s amps.

When a Larger Electrical Panel is Needed

Home size determines what size your electrical panel needs to be. Usually, the decision comes down to a 200-amp electrical panel versus a 100-amp panel. 

You may be able to use the 100-amp panel for a small home. Particularly if you do not have an HVAC system. 

The best fit for large homes, especially those with AC systems, is generally a 200-amp panel.

An electrician will help you install the correct panel, and whether or not to go with the 200 amp panel.

What You Need to Know about Upgrading Your Electrical Panel

Is Upgrading my Electrical Panel Worth it?

Having a safe home is priceless, and if you upgrade your electrical panel, it is always worth the associated cost. Preventing electrical fires and other electrical hazards are a couple of benefits when upgrading your electrical panel.

Besides safety, energy efficiency, and increased peace of mind, this upgrade guarantees a continuous flow of electricity to all areas of your home. That way, you can constantly say goodbye to flickering lights and flipping breakers. 

Can I upgrade my electrical panel myself?

 Upgrading an electrical panel yourself without being familiar with electrical wiring can be extremely dangerous. 

Panel upgrades are a job that should only be undertaken by a licensed electrician. If your home requires electrical upgrades, be safe and call Streb Electric.

It’s essential for homeowners to understand the differences between a bad breaker and a device malfunction.

What Happens When a Circiuit Breaker Stops Working?

When a circuit breaker stops working, it cannot do its job of being the line of defense between your home and your electrical appliances. What this means is that the it does not trip when there is a surge in electricity. This impairs the electrical safety of your home until it is fixed.

Fortunately if it is going bad, if detected early then repairs should not be too costly.

When a circuit breaker stops working, it means that it fails to perform its intended function of protecting an electrical circuit from overload or short circuit conditions.

Here are some possible outcomes when it fails:

1. Failure to Trip: It may not trip when an excessive current flows through the circuit. This can lead to overloading the circuit, causing overheating and potential damage to the electrical devices connected to it. It increases the risk of electrical fires and can pose a safety hazard.

2. Inability to Reset: If a circuit breaker fails to reset after it has tripped, it may indicate internal damage or a malfunction. This can leave the circuit permanently disconnected, leaving the affected area without power until the issue is resolved.

3. False Tripping: A malfunctioning circuit breaker may trip frequently even when the electrical load is within the breaker’s rated capacity. This can be due to internal faults, loose connections, or other issues. False tripping can be inconvenient and disruptive, as it cuts off power unexpectedly and requires manual resetting.

4. Physical Damage: A circuit breaker may exhibit physical signs of damage or wear, such as a melted or discolored casing, loose connections, or a burnt smell. These signs often indicate that the breaker has experienced a severe overload or short circuit and may no longer function properly.

5. Electrical Hazards: A malfunctioning circuit breaker can lead to electrical hazards, including the risk of electric shock, electrocution, or electrical fires. Without the protection of a functioning circuit breaker, excessive currents can flow through the circuit, potentially damaging equipment and endangering individuals in the vicinity.

In any case, when a circuit breaker stops working, it is crucial to have it inspected and replaced or repaired by a qualified electrician to ensure the safety and reliability of the electrical system. It is important to know how to tell if a circuit breaker is bad.

Common Warning Signs and How to Tell if a Circuit Breaker is bad

Won’t Stay in Reset Mode

If your circuit breaker will not stay in “reset” mode, then might be short-circuiting. If you cannot reset the circuit breaker, you should call an electrician to inspect and examine the inside of the unit closely, as well as the walls. You want to make sure no dangerous issues are arising.

Notice a Burning Smell

If you notice a burning smell that appears to be coming from the electrical box, something is faulty. You should immediately shut off the main power to the home and then call a professional straight away for emergency service. Not doing so has the potential to set your house on fire.

It Feels Hot to the Touch

If the circuit breaker feels hot it may be a fire hazard. Turn off the power to your home and call a professional immediately for emergency service.

Visible Damage To the Outlets or Box

Are you noticing burn marks by appliances, the circuit box, or outlets? Scorch marks mean a wire has melted and your house could soon catch on fire. Shut off the power right away and call that professional.

Frequent Tripping

It could be a bad breaker, or an additional one is needed (as in an overloaded circuit), if it turns off every time you turn on a switch in a specific location. It’s a good idea to call a professional at Streb Electric for a home electrical panel upgrade.

It’s Old

Engineers design breakers to work for many years, but that isn’t always the case. The circuit breaker in your home could, quite simply, be old. Call a professional to come out and diagnose the issue because the breaker may need to be upgraded and replaced. If you need to replace the circuit breaker, contact Streb Electric today.

The circuit breaker is a protective device and must be working properly; otherwise, anything in your house that runs on electricity won’t function correctly. Be sure to know these warning signs of a bad circuit breaker to prevent fires and other damages to your home.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s advisable to consult a qualified electrician to inspect and diagnose the issue with the circuit breaker. They will be able to provide a professional assessment and determine whether the breaker needs to be replaced or if there is another underlying problem with the electrical system. Remember, working with electricity can be dangerous, so it’s crucial to prioritize safety and seek professional assistance when needed. It is very important to know how to tell if a circuit breaker is bad.

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The downside of buying an older house is that sometimes you may need to spend more money on maintenance or updates. This is especially true regarding safety issues like an old electrical system

Many home buyers prefer a house with a bit of history instead of a newer-built one. An old home can be full of charm and wonder. Original wood floorboards, detailed molding, period-specific touches that can ignite a conversation, the list goes on and on.

Understanding how to update electrical wiring in an old house will help you assess, fix, and maintain this critical part of your older home.

Before we get into how to update the electrical wiring in your old house, let’s look at whether you need to. If you are a homeowner with a historic home, you may need to replace your outdated wiring system. If everything is working and up to code, you may not.

The second reason has to do with selling or renting your property. When you find a potential buyer or renter, an inspection must be done before you can seal the deal. This involves a licensed electrician reviewing all the wiring in your home to make sure everything is up to code.

Suppose the electrician finds outdated wiring (often in older homes). In that case, you might fail an inspection and can only sell or rent the house once the new wiring is installed.

• Is your wiring outdated or not up to code? For two key reasons, having up-to-date wiring that meets current wiring codes is critical. The first is safety. U.S. electrical codes created by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) are intended to prevent fires.
• Do your systems use aluminum wiring? Aluminum wiring presents several dangers, such as loosening over time, overheating, and causing fires. If the electrical system in your older home has aluminum wiring, it might be time for rewiring.
• Are your amps able to provide your home with enough power? Most older houses use a standard 60 amps or 100 amps, but modern homes require 200 amps. If your home doesn’t have 200 amps, it might be time to call an electrician.
• Do you frequently experience electrical problems? Many signs of the need for new wiring in an old home can be observed daily. Burning smells, discoloration of outlets and switches, flickering lights, and frequent circuit breaker trips are some signs homeowners can look out for.

4 Steps To Update Wiring In An Old House

Now that you know the signs, let’s dive into the process of rewiring an old house. This consists of reviewing all your electrical systems, understanding your local codes, making a list of your desired electrical projects, contacting a reputable electrician, planning for demolition and reconstruction, and finding hardware that matches your home.

1. Review All Of Your Electrical Systems

List all your electrical systems and where and how you use them. Why? You can’t tackle a project like rewiring an old house without knowing exactly what you are getting into. Here are some things you should be sure to cover.

• Inspect your circuit breakers: Look for rust or signs of pest activity. Ensure all circuit breakers flip on and off easily and don’t get stuck.
• Test your GFCI outlets: All outlets near a water source should be protected by ground fault circuit interrupt (GFCI). Press the test button to make sure all GFCI outlets are safe.
• Test all other outlets: Buy a cube tester and plug it into each outlet in your home. A light will display that corresponds with specific wiring issues. Also, check for outlet tightness. If it wiggles, that isn’t good. Be sure to do these tests on your outdoor outlets as well.
• Look at all the wiring you can see: Look over any wiring you can see, like in the basement or attic. Make sure there are no cracks or splits.
• Test your voltage: If certain appliances are acting weird, short circuit, or lights are flickering, it might be a voltage issue. Check the power at each outlet with a voltmeter. For standard 120-volt outlets, you might see it indicate between 110 and 130 volts. That’s normal. If the volt readings are outside this range, you have a problem to address.
• Look at your extension cords: Ensure they are free of cracks or splits. Also, ensure the extension cords you use for power tools have the correct amperage rating.

2. Understand Your Local Codes

It’s essential to understand your local codes for electrical work, such as how many outlets you can have in each room and what type of wire you need to use. This ensures a safe rewiring of your old house and passing necessary inspections.

3. Make A List Of Desired Electrical Projects

Make a list of any projects you need completed before finding an electrician, such as:

• Upgrading the main service electrical panel

• Running wires directly from a circuit breaker to an outlet

• Spacing outlets at 6 – 8 feet apart to avoid extensions

• Installing grounding wires and three-prong outlets

• Adding ground-fault circuit interrupters in the kitchen, bathrooms, and outdoors

Electricians that you call for a quote need to know the scope of work before telling you how much it will cost. They also need this to determine when they can get the job done and how long it will take.

4. Contact A Reputable Electrician

Going the DIY route is an excellent way to save money. Still, it’s best to hire a reputable electrician to complete your electrical rewiring. Electricians are highly trained to get work done safely and effectively.

They are also trained to make sure that they protect your existing infrastructure.

At Streb Electric we are electricians that understand older homes.

Streb Electric is an electrical services company based in Eastlake, Ohio, servicing Eastern Cuyahoga, Lake and Geauga Counties. We offer the personal service of a small, family-owned business, with the professionalism and wide range of services of a large company, making us the perfect choice for electrical projects of all sizes. Contact us today to get your older home safe and up to code.

Are you building a new home? Maybe you’re thinking about adding an extra room to your existing home.

Something many homeowners don’t consider is the electrical component in these kinds of projects. Given the types of options out there it can be overwhelming to decide what options best fit your electrical needs. From smart home systems to power surge protection and electrical panel upgrades there are a lot of choices today.

In the US 50,900 fires are attributed to electrical failure or malfunction each year. These fires, in turn, accounted for 490 deaths and 1,440 injuries. These numbers show that electrical issues are a very serious matter and are not something that should be thought of lightly.

Any device hooked up to your home’s electrical circuit can produce the necessary amps to shock you fatally. From 1992 to 2002, electrocution was the 6th leading cause of workplace fatalities.

This danger is why you should call an electrician to ensure your safety and to make sure there is no damage to whatever it is you are working on.

In today’s society electricity is all around us. You are using electricity right now to read this article; our homes use electricity, our cars, phones, computer, electricity is everywhere. Because electricity is so commonplace today, we forget there is real danger involved.

Even though an electrical problem might seem simple on the surface, it could be a very complicated. When you try to fix an electrical issue even a seemingly minor mistake can damage your appliance, start a fire, or electrocute you.

An additional reason as to why you should call an electrician is because depending on what electrical work is being done you will need to get a permit and have inspectors look at the work. Hiring a professional electrician greatly enhances your chances of obtaining the necessary permits.

Electrical problems you’ll want to watch for in your home:

1. Faulty wiring can lead to an overload in energy use, which could cause frequent tripping in circuit breakers and blown fuses.
2. Overloading outlets often lead to short-circuiting plugs. The best way to avoid this is by using extension cords sparingly when necessary.
3. Corroded wires can lead to overheating and fires. This means you must take care of any frayed or loose wiring.
4. Frequent electrical shocks can be a major problem if you’re working around wires that aren’t properly grounded. For example, you might get an electric shock when using certain appliances or even get your hair wet in the shower. Grounding these power sources is crucial to avoid this issue in the future.

The bottom line: Always call in professional help when dealing with electricity issues in your home.

Top 8 Electrical Upgrades 

1. Smart Home Systems

Smart home systems allow homeowners complete control of their devices while they’re home or away. They add a layer of protection that lets you manipulate your house. Essentially, so people think you are home, even when you’re not. And it’s all from your smartphone.

From switches, outlets, and smoke detectors you can control from your phone, full home automation is no longer a thing of the future, it’s here now.

2. Remote-Controlled Devices

In our busy world, if we can automate a device to save time, we have that ability nowadays. From ceiling fans and window treatments (and even lowering the chandelier from your vaulted ceiling to changing light bulbs or cleaning!), remote-controlled devices are on the rise.

3. Hidden Outlets

No one likes unsightly cords from their devices to the outlet! Hidden outlets behind your televisions, projectors, or museum-lighted art displays can remedy that issue.

4. In-Home Chargers

From electric cars to all your electrical handheld devices, dedicated charging stations can help your electrical system work for you.

5. Whole House Surge Protection

All it takes is one powerful electrical surge or lightning strike to severely damage your home’s electrical system and any connected devices, even if you’re using power strips or an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS). A whole house surge protection system provides extra protection for your electrical system.

6. Electrical Panel Upgrade

If you’re adding a new room or upgrading your electrical system, an electrical panel upgrade may be necessary. This will ensure that your electrical system is up to code and can handle the new load.

THE MAIN ELECTRICAL PANEL IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT PARTS OF ANY HOME’S ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, AS IT SERVES AS THE HEART OF THE ENTIRE SYSTEM.

At Streb Electric, we specialize in repairing and replacing electrical panels to help improve the safety and efficiency of homes.

7. LED Lighting

LED lighting is a great way to save money on your energy bills. It also produces less heat than traditional lighting and can help reduce cooling costs in the summer.

8. Electrical Wiring

Old or faulty wiring can be a fire hazard. If you’re renovating or adding a new room, make sure to have your electrical wiring inspected and updated as needed.

Now that you have some ideas, what’s next?

Call Streb Electric to Make It Happen!

Whether we’re partnered directly with you or your chosen contractor, we always put you, the customer, first by:

• Providing quick quotes for service

• Showing up when scheduled

• Working effectively and efficiently

• Being courteous of your home and belongings

• Cleaning up when we’re done

With our ironclad warranty on all our work, we promise 100% satisfaction. For over 40 years, Streb Electric has been serving the needs of Lake County, Geauga County, and Western and Eastern Cuyahoga County.

Don’t just take our word for it! Check out these reviews from our customers!

Ready to get started? Contact us today.