It’s been a long, dark, cold winter. Time to brighten things up a little bit, wouldn’t you agree? Spring is an excellent time to get electrical lighting upgrades and prep your home for the summer.  Consider the following home improvement ideas to make your home shine during the spring season. 

Add Additional Lighting to Your Patio Area

Have some outdoor lighting installed around your patio and/or garden. The days may be getting longer but that doesn’t mean you’ll be ready to head back inside when the sun does go down, so add a few lights and stay out as late as you’d like. You can opt for subtle, softer lights to illuminate your walking path or go for more eye-popping, party lights. The styles, designs and functionality options are endless!

Consider Additional Outlets

Have outdoor outlets installed. Outdoor outlets are some of the best and handiest electrical upgrades available. Imagine how convenient it would be if you had a weatherproof outlet in reach every time you wanted to plug in an appliance, radio, etc. And outdoor outlets aren’t just handy for spring, you’ll also be happy to have them when the holiday season rolls around and you don’t have to run ugly, heavy extension cords all over the place.

Install an Electronic Fire Pit

Install an electrical fire pit. Electrical fire pits provide you with all of the benefits of a traditional fire pit, without the headache of having to chop the wood yourself.

Hire a Local Electrician

With these suggestions in mind, it would not hurt to consider hiring an electrician to assist with some of these ideas. Both police along with insurance issuers agree that having good outdoor lighting can deter potential theft or home invasion. 

Various Upgrades to Your Exterior

Line your walkway with hanging electric lanterns. Just imagine your lush garden lined with beautiful lanterns, all lit up on a lovely spring night. There are thousands of designs and style outdoor lanterns you can choose from. Plus, once you have lanterns professionally installed, they are fairly easy to maintain and if you choose the right type of long lasting light bulbs you won’t have to worry about constantly changing burnt bulbs.

If hanging lanterns aren’t the kind of outdoor electrical upgrades you’re looking for, try lining your walkway with accent lights. Accent lights can either be embedded in the ground or above ground with lights that almost look like little lamps, stuck in the ground. Both options offer unlimited possibilities for style and design so you can choose the best option to fit your personal style. Many people like to opt for the in-ground lighting option because this option makes lawn maintenance easier.

When you hear string lights, you probably think Christmas lights, but string lights offer so much more possibilities than that! Just imagine relaxing on your porch or garden at night, with a beautiful display of string lights hanging overhead.

Call Integra Electrical Today for the best electrical remodel service in Des Moines and beyond!

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By zach@admachines.com

Unless you’re an electrician, you don’t hear an awful lot about your subpanels. They’re something of an unsung hero of your electrical system; diligently working in the background to make sure you can keep the lights on throughout your home. Typically speaking, your subpanel/s is basically used to extend wiring from the main panel to various other parts of your home. Subpanels are massively valuable for homeowners that own properties that have been or will be expanded upon as they are often one of the only ways to power these newer areas.

We recently ran a subpanel replacement job for a homeowner in Windsor Heights. They needed a premium 60 amp subpanel to expand an existing breaker into another part of the house. They also asked us for the installation of circuit extensions and a premium Arc Fault Circuit Interrupting Breaker for safety protocol. 

Upon arrival, our first order of business was to install the new subpanel, which needed to be mounted on the wall near the main service panel. Next, our technician routed the wires through the subpanel and essentially made the panel ready-to-function. Afterward, the subpanel is attached to the main panel and it is activated, allowing power to flow freely between the two and toward the intended area of the home.

Afterward, our team focused their attention on the installation and subsequent testing of a brand new, premium-grade Arc Fault Circuit Interrupting Breaker. What this tool does is essentially sends test signals throughout the existing wiring in your home looking for the start of an electrical fire. When it detects any potentially dangerous anomalies, the device shuts down before a fire can break out, allowing the homeowner to rectify the issue before it becomes one. This will prevent 98% of electrical fires on protected circuits and is a major factor in why these devices have been required in homes since the 1999 National Electrical Code came down.

Call Integra Electrical Today for the best electrical remodel service in Des Moines and beyond!

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By zach@admachines.com

The right ceiling fan can do a lot for you and your home. Equal parts form and function, a good ceiling fan can provide a nice, relaxing breeze while also tying the room together aesthetically. But, like any home improvement project, there are more than a few things to consider before you pull the trigger on a new fan. To make sure that your fan is the right one for you, be sure to consult with your Integra representative.

Size:

Before you make any final decisions about any ceiling fans, you need to ensure that the fan you’re interested in is the right fit for your space . Literally. It may seem like an obvious thing, but you would be amazed to know how many inexperienced homeowners select a ceiling fan based only on visual appeal without thinking about how small or large they need it to be for their needs. For example In a room up to 50 square feet, choose a 29″ fan. Medium size rooms up to 100 square feet can fit fans from 36″ to 42″. Standard bedrooms and family rooms up to 400 square feet work best with fans that are 50″ or 52″.

Visuals:

As a semi-permanent fixture, you want your newly installed ceiling fan to look good in your home. Just as an ugly couch can ruin the appeal of an otherwise beautiful room, an out of place ceiling fan can detract from the overall aesthetic of your home. And since most fans come with lighting fixtures, you also can consider which lighting will best compliment your room. There are options like  spotlights and multiple glass shades that can be added to a fitter to enhance the design. A friend or family member with a keen eye for interior design will jump at the chance to help find you the perfect fan, but failing that, our resident expert representatives are ready, willing, and able to assist you in deciding on a fan that accentuates your home’s existing features.

Cooling Power:

Power, in the sense of how much cooling ability the fan brings to the table. A fan’s primary function is first and foremost to supply a refreshing cool breeze to your living space. Depending entirely on your preferences, a fan can provide a barely-there breeze or a noticeable gust of air. The air intensity, or lack thereof, is a huge part of picking a ceiling fan that you shouldn’t take lightly. 

Energy Efficiency

With everyone trying to be ecologically friendly these days, having a fan that is good on electricity may be something that’s important to you. Thankfully, ceiling fans are some of the best cooling products for conserving energy. Most fans only consume about 90 or so watts of electricity, leaving even the greenest A/C systems in the dust. That said, many people install an extra ceiling fan in a room to act as an energy-efficient cooling alternative to air conditioning. 

Special Fans for Special Rooms: 

Are you thinking of putting a fan in the bathroom? What about an outdoor fan to accentuate your covered patio? For more unorthodox installations, you need an especially designed fan. Bathroom fans need to be about 90 or so watts of electricity, leaving even the greenest A/C systems in the dust. That said, many people install an extra ceiling fan in a room to act as an energy-efficient cooling alternative to air conditioning.

Special Fans for Special Rooms: 

Are you thinking of putting a fan in the bathroom? What about an outdoor fan to accentuate your covered patio? For more unorthodox installations, you need an especially designed fan. Bathroom fans need to be designed with small spaces in mind, and outdoor fans need specialized casings to protect them from the elements. Placing improper fans in these types of locations could mean serious damage to designed with small spaces in mind, and outdoor fans need specialized casings to protect them from the elements. Placing improper fans in these types of locations could mean serious damage to your fan and/or home. 

Call Integra Electrical Today for the best electrical remodel service in Des Moines and beyond!

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By zach@admachines.com

Every year storms cause power surges that can damage your electronics and potentially cause damage to your central A/C unit. Damage to big appliances, like your HVAC, causes greater expense.  If the damage occurs in the middle of summer, it also increases discomfort for your whole family. If that’s not enough, surges can come from inside the home such as from older equipment. If you’re interested in protecting your home and gaining a greater peace of mind this year, you might want to consider whole-home surge protection.

Risks of not Having Whole-House Surge Protection

You may experience damage to electronic equipment or big appliances like your HVAC without surge protection. The risk goes up during an electrical storm. Even if you have your sensitive equipment, such as your computer,  plugged into power strips they can still become damaged during a power surge or if lightning strikes your home. In fact, the risk of electrical fire goes up during storm season because of electrical damage. A solid lightning strike can not only fry the wiring in your home but cause the surrounding structures to ignite. 

Benefits of Whole-House Surge Protection

Surge protection helps homeowners protect electronics from electrical surges. This can give your electronics a longer life with less wear and tear. Whole-house surge protection helps reduce the expense of replacing big appliances, big screen TVs, and computers. As an added benefit and because not all electronic equipment is created the same, you can layer whole house surge protection to give extra coverage to special electronics such as your home theater system. A whole-house surge protection unit even helps decrease the risks caused by electrical storms. You can rest easier knowing that your house and its electronics are protected. 

Here Are 5 Considerations When Installing Surge Protection:

1. We are an electronic society

Most of what we add to our household is electronic. We buy and use green tools like smart thermostats that help to regulate our home. We buy amazing electronic entertainment systems with surround sound and theater-like lighting. Our computers, tablets, and smart devices are central to our daily activities. Even our appliances are more than just plugged into the wall. Our coffee pot, washer and dryer, fridge, and range are all smart devices. The more we add electronics to our homes, the more we need surge protection. How much would it cost to replace even a portion of our electronics due to a power surge? 

2. Interior Power Surges

Around 80 percent of power surges come from inside the home. When your HVAC or A/C turns off it can cause a power surge inside of your home. The reason is that the residual power in the line that would normally feed the HVAC needs some place to go. It races through your home’s wiring looking for an exit route. When it hits your laptop or big-screen TV it can cause damage. Electricity always looks for the path of least resistance. If that is to your appliances or electronics damage can occur. Internal power surges are caused when a large appliance shuts off. This can include your HVAC, A/C, washer, dryer, or refrigerator. 

3. Protecting Your Home’s Infrastructure

One of the most powerful protections you gain from a whole house surge protector is that it protects the home’s internal wiring and outlets. The massive increase in electricity being channeled through your home’s wiring during a power surge is much hotter than the regular electrical load. It can melt wiring or damage outlets. It is a big expense to have to test and replace your home’s electric wires. It means pulling wire through walls to reach outlets. It may also mean digging up and threading wiring through conduits. A surge protector helps eliminate the risk of physical damage to the wiring in your home. 

4. Layer surge protection

Electronics, such as your home theater system should have an additional set of protection. Layering the protection to specific groups of gadgets helps add additional protection to those electronics that are more sensitive than others. Home theaters, computers, and big appliances are prime candidates for layered protection. A good way to determine what should have layered surge protection is to look at electronics that are not covered by your homeowner’s insurance, that might cost more than $200 to replace, or that might hold information that cannot be recovered or replaced. A good example would be a home office where your electronic equipment is necessary and where data is difficult to replace. 

5. Quality Is Important

Not all surge protectors are created equally. Some brands and models of whole house power surge protectors offer reduced coverage during a power surge. Others may charge more for the same coverage. A good tip is to consult with a professional to ensure you’re properly protected. 

These five considerations help you determine if a whole house power surge unit is beneficial to your home. Much of this revolves around adding unexpected expenses such as deductibles for homeowners insurance policies, recovering data, and replacing essential electronics. Because everyone’s budget is different, it becomes necessary that we evaluate these considerations based on our own circumstances. Now that autumn is here, winter storm season is fast approaching.  There is still time to install a whole house surge protection system if needed. 

Call Integra Electrical Today for the best electrical remodel service in Des Moines and beyond!

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Please check with lender for up-to-date terms, conditions and eligibility requirements. Information on this page is subject to change. Integra Electrical is not responsible for the terms and conditions of third party lenders, or the accuracy of this page. electrical remodel

By zach@admachines.com

A safe home is everyone’s dream haven. Ideally, your dwelling is a place where danger isn’t allowed to enter.  However, as a responsible homeowner it is imperative that you safeguard every inch of your abode to the best of your ability. If not harnessed correctly, electricity can be a foe instead of the illuminating friend we rely on. Toward that end, we’ve included a list of what to look for in terms of protecting your home and more importantly your loved ones from a potentially dangerous force we use every day.

1. Home is equipped with two-prong outlets

A quick scan of your outlets will answer this question. The National Electrical Code or NEC, made grounded three-prong outlets a requirement in 1965.  NEC though not the federal law is a part of the National Fire Codes series under the National Fire Protection Association, NFPA. The aim of NEC is to ensure a standard of safe electrical practices. Grounding an outlet refers to having a direct circuit path back to the actual earth or ground for extra current. This is what makes the third prong necessary. Two pronged outlets are known as being polarized. If there is a short in the wire, or excessive current due to a faulty appliance or for any reason, the chances of an electrical fire are greater in a two pronged circuit system since the excess or misdirected current has no way to travel to a neutralizing port – the ground.

It is critical to check for two pronged outlets quickly and if any are found schedule an electrician visit immediately to have the outlets updated.   

2. Outlets have significant wear and tear

 This is a point that many people overlook or put at the bottom of their to-do list. Signs of significant wear and tear include worn outlets. If inserted cords do not fit snugly in the receptacle. If the cords slip out easily or are hanging out of the outlet, there is a chance that excess or even the proper voltage current may not have the proper channel in which to flow due to ill-fitted prongs.

Other signs of wear and tear include broken plate covers that expose the electrical outlet mechanism. Paint or other decorative substances inside the outlet pose another risk. To ensure safety, outlets that are exhausted from years of use need to be replaced as soon as possible.  

3. Electrical outlets are not tamper resistant

If you look around your home and find that the outlets are not tamper resistant then it is a good chance you need to replace them.  For over twenty years the NEC mandates require tamper resistant electrical outlets for the pediatric floors of hospital settings. Since 2008 NEC has required tamper resistant outlets on newly constructed residential dwellings.  The tamper resistant outlets are manufactured with a shutter that only allows a two pronged plug into the receptacle to properly create a circuit. If a child attempts to put a foreign object into one of the receptacles the shutter will not open allowing for proper contact to connect the flow of electricity. Since many people do not live in a new construction it is important to speak with your landlord about the outlets in your abode.   

4. Home is equipped with builder’s grade outlets

Builder’s grade or homeowner’s grade outlets are the least expensive outlets that can be purchased. It is a very good chance that if your home has been built by a contractor and you did not specifically request a higher grade outlet you have builder’s grade outlets installed in your home. If you are a renter again you should speak with your landlord regarding the outlets in use in your rented dwelling. Builder’s grade outlets are of an overall poorer quality and are designed to last for 5 to 10 years at most.

Not significantly more expensive are the better choice for residences which is commercial grade outlets. These outlets are built to last for one hundred years. Replace builder’s grade outlets with commercial grade. The third general type of outlet on the market is the hospital grade outlet. These outlets are very expensive and not typically recommended for residential use.

5. Outlets have ungrounded receptacles 

Ungrounded receptacles are receptacles which are two pronged and have no way to channel electrical current to a ground or earth source. Replacing two pronged outlets with three pronged outlets will remedy the problem and provide safe outlets for your home.  In addition to replacing the two-pronged receptacles it is necessary to have an electrician check your panel’s grounding source.

Keeping your home safe can start with a visual sweep and inspection of your electrical outlets. With a little thought and savvy you can quickly ascertain whether or not you need to replace your electrical outlets.   

Call Integra Electrical Today for the best electrical remodel service in Des Moines and beyond!

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Please check with lender for up-to-date terms, conditions and eligibility requirements. Information on this page is subject to change. Integra Electrical is not responsible for the terms and conditions of third party lenders, or the accuracy of this page. electrical remodel

By zach@admachines.com

An electrical fire is among one of the most insidious and dangerous threats homeowners have to contend with. They start quickly, without much warning, and the warning signs that you’re at risk are easy to miss for the untrained eye. You don’t need us to tell you how bad of a situation a fire can be, but we are here to help you recognize the early warning signs so that the fire department isn’t making it’s way to your house any time in the foreseeable future. 

Old Wiring

Most homes were built decades ago in a time where electricity was nowhere near as ubiquitous as it is now. Whereas in the fifties, the average home had lights, several appliances, and maybe a TV, the average home in 2021 has a host of electrical devices far too numerous to even begin listing in an article like this. From computers to phone chargers and everything in between, suffice to say there’s a lot more stress on your electrical system these days. Any home that hasn’t had wires updated in 40 years (1981 as of the date of writing)  is long overdue for an upgrade. 

If you experience any of the following call a professional right away:

• Frequently overloaded circuit breaker
• Flickering lights or intermittent power outages
• Appliances or electrical devices that feel excessively hot
• Shocks or sparks from appliances or outlets
• Unexplained burning smells

Unsure if your home qualifies for a new wiring? Any home that has had a new fixture installed like a pool or a water heater is probably ready for new wiring. Also, any homeowner that finds themselves using an abundance of extension cords should probably call the professionals, as that’s an indication of a lack of outlets. 

Faulty Outlets 

Speaking of outlets, old, broken down outlets are one of the leading causes of electrical fires nationwide. After years of wear and tear, they can malfunction and cause a spark with devastating effects. The best way to see if your outlets are functioning properly?  Regular and sustained watchfulness. Faulty outlets can often be identified by loose framing and sparks when you plug something into it. If you see any such outlets in your home, call an electrician, and fast.

Overload

Extension cords are great. They let you power more devices off a single outlet. As great as they are, they also pose a significant threat if improperly implemented. Placing too many appliances and/or devices into the cord can and will cause a fire if done carelessly. To best prevent such accidents, consider unplugging devices as they are not needed.

Appliances

Some devices are prone to overheating and causing fires, with the chief offenders being space heaters. These devices, while providing valuable warmth during the winter months, are known to cause fires when left on overnight or while the homeowner leaves for the day. Often, these fires erupt due to careless placement of flammable household items such as curtains, rugs, papers, and the like. The most obvious solution to this danger is keeping such flammable items away from the heater, but they can be perfectly safe with close attention and remembering to turn the device off after a while. 

Call Integra Electrical Today for the best electrical service in Des Moines and beyond!

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Please check with lender for up-to-date terms, conditions and eligibility requirements. Information on this page is subject to change. Integra Electrical is not responsible for the terms and conditions of third party lenders, or the accuracy of this page.

By zach@admachines.com

Updating your home’s electrical system can bring multiple benefits, including reduced power bills, greater convenience and a safer, more efficient use of power. However, there are a number of mistakes that homeowners commonly make when planning large-scale electrical work. Avoiding these mistakes will help ensure that the project is on time, on budget and a perfect match for your family’s needs. The following tips can help homeowners make the most of their electrical overhaul.

1. Hiring the wrong person for the job

A home’s electrical system has many different components, and each part of the system must be properly installed in order to ensure safety and proper function. If mistakes are made, there is a serious risk of malfunction or fire. Unlike having custom cabinetry or top-of-the-line carpeting installed, shoddy electrical work is hidden behind the walls, and may not be immediately detected. Hiring a qualified and skilled electrician is critical to both safety and proper function

2. Remodeling on Your Own

There are many areas of home improvement in which a handy homeowner can save a great deal of money by doing the job themselves. However, your home’s electrical system is not an area where a DIY approach is wise. There are a multitude of things that can go wrong, and having to call in an electrician to address those issues will only drive up the cost of the project.  

3. Failing to Plan for Budget Overages

Every homeowner knows that home improvement projects rarely stay on budget. A number of different circumstances can require more money than anticipated, and building those unexpected costs into one’s budget is essential. Home remodeling professionals suggest including a budget overage amount of between 10 and 25 percent. Having that flexibility can make it easier to absorb any unexpected costs, and hopefully provide a much-appreciated overage at the end of the project.

4. Overlooking Building Codes and Regulations

Government regulation of electrical work is there to protect the public from harm. Even though adhering to various building codes and regulations can be a pain, the end result is a safer building and a reduced risk of harm to the occupants. Failing to plan for these requirements can mean a project that is both longer and more expensive than necessary.

5. Not Considering the Existing Electrical Layout

Each and every electrical remodel is unique, and some projects are far more complex than others. However, in order to get the most out of your new system, it is necessary to consider how the existing system is laid out. For example, in some cases it is possible to make use of part of the existing system, while adding certain updated components or making changes where needed. Even when the entire system will be replaced, understanding how the current system is routed can help avoid costly changes necessary to work around other utilities or construction features.

6. Choosing Cost Over Quality

Everyone wants to save money, especially during home improvement projects where savings can be put to use in other areas of the home. That said, when it comes to electrical services, the old adage applies: you truly do get what you pay for. The skills and experience of a professional electrician may cost more at the onset of a project, but the value will last for many years to come, in the form of an electrical system that is safe, effective and does not require multiple repairs.

7. Not Factoring Your Lifestyle Into the Plans

The primary purpose of an electrical remodel is to gain a system that is safe, dependable and in line with the family’s needs. In order to attain that goal, it is necessary to take the time to consider how each room within the home will be used. A kitchen has very different electrical needs than a bedroom, and some families have unique power needs that should be factored into the project plans.

8. Not Getting Service Estimates in Writing

Electrical overhauls are an investment in the safety and value of your home. While in the planning stage, it is critical to get a written estimate of the cost of the project. This gives both the homeowner and the electrician a clear idea of the scope of the project, as well as the expected costs. Having a written estimate makes it easier to discuss and plan for any changes to the project that may occur once the remodel is in process.

9. Using Cheap Materials

Most people don’t give much thought to the materials used in their home’s electrical system. After all, the vast majority of these materials are out of sight. It is important to understand that there is a range of quality in electrical components, just as there is with any other type of construction materials. Choosing quality materials will improve the efficiency, function and safety of the new electrical system.

10. Not Conducting a Home Inspection

A professional home inspection provides the homeowner with a wealth of information about the overall condition of the construction and systems within the property. This is a critical step, both at the time a home is purchased and after significant repairs or remodeling. When it comes to an electrical overhaul, a quality home inspection can provide homeowners with the information needed to plan the project, as well as the peace of mind that comes with knowing that the end result was properly completed.

Call Integra Electrical Today for the best electrical remodel service in Des Moines and beyond!

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Please check with lender for up-to-date terms, conditions and eligibility requirements. Information on this page is subject to change. Integra Electrical is not responsible for the terms and conditions of third party lenders, or the accuracy of this page. electrical remodel

By zach@admachines.com

Replacing a circuit breaker can be an economical investment in protecting your home while avoiding damage to your appliances and fixtures and protecting your family.  They are a valuable first line of defense in home safety, but are often overlooked as a solution to real problems.  Your electrical panel is likely hidden in the basement or in a utility closet, well out of sight and thought. However, if you continue to ignore the warning signs and resist checking and replacing a circuit breaker as needed you can experience:

• Flickering Lights: How annoying is it when you’re eating dinner with the family and the lights keep raising and lowering like in a haunted house? While distracting, you figure you can live with it.  That could be a big mistake.
• Poor Performance from Appliances: Your stove may bake unevenly or never seem to reach proper temperature.  The dryer might shut off in mid-cycle. You may be convinced that all your kitchen appliances need to be replaced due to strange and inconsistent performance. What a waste of cash if it is simply a circuit breaker that needs to be replaced.
• Damage to Essential Lights and Appliances:   When circuit breakers fail to control the flow of electricity properly you may experience bulbs that constantly burn out or a microwave that barely lasted past its one year warranty. Overheating can occur, causing lasting damage to coils and computer boards.
• Potential of Smoke, Fire and Water Damage: When too much power is drawn through a power cord, an electrical fire can result from overheating. Your home could be severely damaged by smoke, water and flame. The cost of failing to check your electrical panel for problems continues to skyrocket.
• Lower Property Value: When you experience a fire, no matter how small, the integrity and value of the property is lowered. Failing to upgrade electrical service to your home can result in a potential buyer hesitating to put in an offer. They want to purchase a home that is safe and has been maintained.

5 Warning Signs of a Failing Circuit Breaker

1. Burning Smell In The Electrical Panel: If you smell a burning odor coming from the panel that means wires and insulation have become overheated and are failing to protect your home from an electrical short elsewhere. Don’t wait! Shut off the main power to the house and call an electrician immediately for emergency service.
2. Breakers Tripping Frequently: A circuit breaker is designed to trip when too much power is being drawn through it to protect your entire home. If a breaker is tripping every time you turn on a particular appliance like the microwave or vacuum cleaner, the breaker may be worn out and ready to fail. An electrician will be able to determine if it’s simply a bad breaker or if you need to add a circuit to your home
3. Physical Damage: If you notice scorch marks around the breaker, at an outlet or appliances are failing due to melted wires, it’s a good bet that your electrical panel and breakers require immediate service. A melted wire is one step away from your entire house going up in flames. Place that emergency call to the electrician and unplug all fixtures from that circuit.
4. Breaker Will Not Stay Reset: Probably after several months of resetting a breaker, it simply won’t stay on for any period of time.  The breaker has probably failed. However, your electrician will check the entire circuit to make sure further damage wasn’t done to the wiring.
5. Old Age: Circuit breakers are designed to last for decades of use. However, if you have a home where the electrical panel has not been serviced in ten years or more, there’s a good chance that there are several breakers ready to fail. Having an electrician inspect your panel is a wise investment.

It doesn’t take a lot of time or money to have a failing circuit breaker replaced. When you invest in preventative maintenance on your electrical panel you will enjoy the following benefits:

• Peace of Mind: Your home is now a safe environment for your family. You will sleep better when you don’t worry about the house catching fire.
• Extended Life of Appliances and Fixtures: You can now expect your new refrigerator and cooktop to last for years, until you are ready to renovate again.
• Improved Convenience: You never realized how much easier life is when lights, appliances and electrical devices work each and every time–simply because you invested in a precautionary repair.
• Maintains Value of Your Home: Updated service to your electrical panel gives a buyer confidence they are making a good investment.

Call Integra Electrical Today for the best electrical service in Des Moines and beyond!

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Please check with lender for up-to-date terms, conditions and eligibility requirements. Information on this page is subject to change. Integra Electrical is not responsible for the terms and conditions of third party lenders, or the accuracy of this page.

By zach@admachines.com

New houses are generally outfitted to accommodate the use of all our modern technologies, appliances and conveniences. Many homes have large tech-savvy televisions, microwave ovens, computers and devices throughout. Today’s electrical construction accounts for them. But many older structures were built with the electrical needs of those times in mind and that may put you on the outside looking in when it comes to enjoying technology. Older construction may also be below current safety codes and you can’t put a price on peace of mind when it comes to the safety of your family. If you’re considering rewiring in your Des Moines home, here are 10 things to consider.

1. Do You Need New Wiring?

Older homes often have outdated electrical wiring in terms of safety and the ability to adequately provide the necessary current of modern electronics. Some simply are not in compliance with basic electrical codes either. Here is a short list of things that would lend strong consideration to a complete electrical overhaul:

• Knob and Tube: This type of wiring can be found in homes built before 1940. If untouched, these systems may be running okay in small residential homes. However, you run a greater risk of fire by keeping K&T because the systems may not be grounded and are designed to let heat resonate outward toward potentially combustible materials.
• Aluminum Wiring: About two million U.S. homes have aluminum electrical wiring and many experts view this as a significant hazard. Aluminum wiring requires a specialized level of safety installation at each outlet, switch and junction box. Without this, or if it has been damaged or tampered with over the years, aluminum wiring could just be a fire waiting to happen. Get rid of it.
• Scorch Marks: Outlets and light switches should remain cool. If you see charred areas or if they feel hot, you have a serious electrical problem. It may be limited to a particular switch or the entire system may be faulty. Either way, get it looked at by a licensed professional ASAP.
• Circuit Breakers: When circuit breakers become overloaded, they shut off as a safety mechanism. If yours are tripping regularly, there is an issue that needs to be addressed by an electrician.

• Other Warning Signs: If you find that your lights dim, electrical connections are loose, or you see frayed wires, sparks, or have been shocked, these are all signs that you have a problem. Have your system looked at by a licensed electrician. 

2. Reasons To Want New Wiring

Electrical systems installed in homes that were built during the 1980s or earlier have difficulty keeping up with the demands our modern electronics place on them. Some still have 60 amp limits in contrast to 100-200 amps of new homes. Think about the technological progress for a minute. In the ’80s, homes had smaller televisions, limited video games, virtually no computers, few devices to recharge and only 25 percent of homes had a microwave oven. And, we’re not even thinking about the future of the electric car. You probably find yourself using surge protectors with multiple plugs-ins when you really need more outlets in your home. The bottom line is that enjoying modern conveniences means more convenient electricity stations.

3. How To Choose An Electrician

It’s a very bad idea to try to rewire your own home. Unless you happen to be an electrician, you may put you and your family in harm’s way. If something goes wrong or there’s a fire, your insurance may not cover the loss. Hire a professional. Selecting the right electrician for you is a bit of a process. It’s important that homeowners treat this as a business deal and not a personal arrangement. It’s advisable to take the follow steps and do your due diligence:

• Create a detailed scope of work document
• Field multiple, free, no obligation quotes
• Check with your State to ensure the electrician is licensed
• Read their business reviews online
• Check Better Business Bureau ratings
• Check into litigation history. Have they been sued or filed bankruptcy?
• Ask questions about start to finish time
• Avoid the use of subcontractors.

Sign a contract that includes the cost, payment installments, scope of work in detail, labor hours, job time frame, and a method to agree upon potential overages

4. Should I Get An Electrical Permit?

The simple answer is: Yes. It’s in your best interest to have the electrician pull a permit under his or her license. Most states require permits to alter or install new wiring although a drawn electrical plan may not be required on an existing residential home. For you, as a homeowner, a permit means that your home will be inspected and that ensures electrical codes are met and the property is safe for you and your family to occupy.

5. Should Electrical Contractor Be Bonded?

Again, the simple answer is: Yes. A contract or construction bond as they are referred to ensures that everything in your contract is fulfilled by the electrical contractor. For the purposes of having your home rewired, there are two types that are of particular importance to you.

• Payment Bond: If your contractor does subcontract work to others and does not pay them properly or goes bankrupt, these unpaid or underpaid parties could put a lien on your property. With a bond in place, industry people can recoup losses without dragging you into a legal quagmire.
• Performance Bond: These are generally tied to the agreement you reach and protect you from shoddy work, failure to meet job specifications, and provide money to complete the project if the contractor doesn’t. Basically, a performance bond is your contingency plan.

6. What Will It Cost?

Rewiring an average home can entail about 40 hours of work and electricians generally charge between $40 and $100 per hour, depending on their certification and experience. Standard materials that meet current codes average approximately $1,500, although costs vary from region to region. Expect the average-sized home to cost somewhere between $4,000 and $5,500 for basic work only. Items that can increase this cost include fixtures, luxury items, difficulty of installation and an additional big ticket item can be the need to upgrade to a 100-200 amp electrical panel. It’s a good idea to have the contractor provide line item costs in your agreement. Also, budget for potential cost overruns. Once walls are opened up, you never know what problems you’ll find.

7. How Invasive Is Rewiring in Des Moines?

The simple answer is: Very. Keep in mind that most wires are not easily accessible. They are inside the walls or under floors. There will likely be areas where the electrician will need to do demolition and these will require repair, plastering and paint later. The good news is that because you have a detailed contract that identifies the work areas, you’ll have a good idea what to expect during the process.

8. How Long Will You Be Without Power?

Once you start the project, it’s likely that you will be without power for a period of time. Generally, rewiring a home takes anywhere from 3 to 10 days. More complicated jobs can take longer. It’s important that you outline the start and finish times in your signed agreement. Plenty of contractors are juggling multiple jobs at the same time. A driving factor for some contractors is where the next pay installment is coming. The may shift their resources for financial reasons and balance getting a next check with your patience.

9. How To Manage Life Under Construction?

It’s a good idea to not be around while workers are dismantling your home. Seeing holes being knocked into walls can be very stressful, even though it will all be put back together in the end. Beyond that, there will likely be time without or with limited power. Hot water may not be available, stoves may not work among other inconveniences. Here are a few tips on managing the process.

• Unplug all electronics before work begins
• Have construction end at a certain time daily and retake your home after that
• Have a gym or YMCA membership in place in order to shower
• Wash all your laundry before the start date
• Stay at a hotel for a few key days and make a mini vacation out of it
• Be sure you emptied all the frozen and perishable goods from refrigerators
• Prepare for well pumps to lose prime
• Plan to grill meals outdoors or get lots of take-out

10. What are the benefits?

By rewiring in your De Moines home, several personal and financial goals can be achieved that may include:

• Ability to upgrade electronics and appliances
• Convenience and efficiency
• Lower insurance rates
• Increased property value
• Tax deductions
• Safety and peace of mind

To say that electrical wiring ages like fine wine wouldn’t be correct, unless you mean it turns into vinegar. Time, changing needs and technological advancements will mean updating a home’s electricity at some point. Maybe electrical wiring is more like a trendy craft beer. It’s great for a while, until something better comes along or it just gets old.

Call Integra Electrical Today for the best rewiring service in Des Moines and beyond!

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Please check with lender for up-to-date terms, conditions and eligibility requirements. Information on this page is subject to change. Integra Electrical is not responsible for the terms and conditions of third party lenders, or the accuracy of this page.

By zach@admachines.com

As the months grow colder and the days grow shorter, we’re going to be needing a way to keep ourselves warm. Space heaters have enjoyed a boom in popularity in recent years and it’s not hard to see why. They’re small, easily moveable, fairly cheap to operate, and do a good enough job of spot-heating a given room. That said, space heaters can prove extremely dangerous if you’re not careful with their implementation. Here’s how to stay warm and safe with space heaters in your Indianola home. 

Limit Usage 

While this may seem counterintuitive to keeping your space as warm as possible, overuse of heaters can prove disastrous. When left on and unattended for long periods, space heaters are more likely to start a fire than any other home appliance. The heat generated by the device can warm up surrounding items to the point of combustion. By limiting usage, you can keep eyes on the device at all times when operating and ensure that nothing goes awry.

Plug the Heater into the Wall On its Own

A space heater should only ever be plugged into a wall outlet that isn’t shared by another device. The reason being that these devices take up a lot of power, and should not be encumbered by other devices or plugged into extension cords or the like. Always plug your space heaters into the wall of your Indianola home, or face an electrical nightmare. 

Regularly Check the Heater and Wire for Heat

Obviously, there should be some heat coming from the heater when plugged in and on. But you should be checking exactly how hot it is every so often. This is especially true of the plug and the outlet. If either of these is hot in the slightest, discontinue use of the heater immediately. These are surefire signs of an impending electrical fire.

Store Space Heaters Responsibly

Once you’ve determined which room you want to place your heater in, you need to make sure that you put it in a safe, but effective location. Placing the heater on a self, cupboard, near a water source, or near heavily-trafficked areas of the room. Heaters represent a sizable fire hazard when they are in contact with flammable surfaces like wood countertops and curtains, and it goes without saying that water and electrical appliances never mix.

Call Integra Electrical Today!

Check out our stellar Google reviews!

Please check with lender for up-to-date terms, conditions and eligibility requirements. Information on this page is subject to change. Integra Electrical is not responsible for the terms and conditions of third party lenders, or the accuracy of this page.

By zach@admachines.com