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5 Tips to Guard Your Garage Against Burglars

We invest in security systems to protect our homes from burglars and vandals. This has allowed us to view our homes at any given time. However, property owners often overlook the need to have their garage installed with security systems, which is as important as our home’s main building.

Our garage is where we store vehicles, gym equipment, bikes, maintenance tools, and other valuable items. Not having a security system installed in this area would make these valuable items vulnerable to burglars who won’t hesitate to break in whenever they can.

Considering these five tips will help you keep opportunists from breaking into your garage and stealing your things.

Equip your garage with high-quality CCTV cameras

Before authorities, the CCTV camera is your property’s first line of protection against burglary. It can protect your garage the same way it protects your home. Seeing a CCTV camera on your garage would make the thieves back out from entering, knowing that they can be captured and get arrested eventually.

Add a burglar alarm to your CCTVs

It would be unrealistic to think that no one would dare to break into your garage in the middle of the night or while you are away. In addition to CCTV cameras, installing a burglar alarm is a great help in informing you that someone is trying to intrude your garage, and even scaring these thieves off before they could even get their hands on your possessions.

Keep a regular security system maintenance schedule

Keeping burglars away means you have to keep your security systems in excellent condition all the time. Regardless of the quality of the systems when they are initially installed, time, weather, and other factors can decrease its life expectancy. If burglars see that your security systems are not well-maintained, that will make you their easy target. On the other hand, if they observe that your garage security is in excellent condition, the less chance for them to try on breaking in.

Invest in motion-sensing lights

As much as they can, burglars would keep themselves away from the light while they are trying to get a hold of your possessions. Installing motion-sensing lights that can shine directly upon them can make your property less appealing to these thieves.

Fasten your garage windows

Aside from your garage doors, the windows also provide burglars access to break-in. So it is crucial to check and fasten your garage windows all the time. However, not all garages have windows, so this tip won’t apply to everyone. If you have one, applying a frosted or one-way window glasses can discourage burglars from breaking into your home.

If you need help in securing your property, feel free to contact SMD Electrical. Our expert team has been on the trade for many years. We can guarantee to provide you excellent security system installation and services at budget-friendly prices.

Electrical Problems Homeowners Should Be Aware Of

Electrical troubles are among the most common causes of fires and other accidents at home. A lot of families have lost their properties, and in most cases, lost the lives of their loved ones because of electrical fires.

To protect your family and property, it is vital to know the signs of electrical problems at home. On this list, we have gathered 10 of the most common signs of residential electrical problems that you should be aware of to prevent accidents and larger issues from happening.

1. Malfunctioning Light Switches

A switch should work properly whenever you turn it on and off, especially if it is newly installed.

If you just had your light switches installed or you just moved into a new house, only to find that the switches don’t work correctly, there is a possibility that they are poorly installed, or there could be problems with the wiring or outlet.

Any issues related to this should be taken care of by skilled electricians to avoid further problems.

2. Lights Fluctuating

There a possibility of a huge problem going on with your home’s electrical system if the lights are fluctuating between dim and bright.

There might be a bad connection in the panel, or different types of light wattages were used. To ensure your safety, you should call an electrician to address the situation right away.

3. Frequent Burning of Light Bulbs

Several reasons are associated with a burning light bulb. This might be due to bad wiring on the mains and the circuit, the bulb’s wattage is too high, there are too many bulbs attached in one switch or a poor connection.

Resolving this issue needs a professional who can check and identify the real cause of the problem. It isn’t safe for someone who doesn’t have the proper training and skills to try solving the problem. It might only lead to catastrophic results.

4. Recessed Light Goes On and Off

Most recessed lighting fixtures are fitted with safety devices that enable them to cut the power when it gets too hot.

If the recessed lighting at your home goes on and off, there is a possibility that the wattage used in the bulb is too high, or the bulb is too close on the insulation. Regardless of the reason, you must have professionals to check it right away.

5. Electrical Surges Very Often

Due to particular events, such as a power line damage or lightning, we get to experience electrical surges that normally last a microsecond. However, frequent electrical surges can damage your home appliances and other electrical components at home.

In some cases, homeowners experience excessive electrical surges due to problems with their home’s electrical wirings or grid, and sometimes due to low-quality devices and powerboards connected to their outlets. Make sure to seek advice from professional electricians to resolve these types of problems.

6. Circuit Breaker Constantly Tripping

Circuit breakers are installed in your home to prevent electrical problems from escalating into a fire. When many electrical items are used at the same time that it would be too much for the circuit breaker to handle the current load, it will heat up and trip.

You can avoid this problem by limiting your use of power-consuming items at the same time.

7. Voltage Sags and Dips

Among the primary reasons for voltage sags and dips are a faulty power grid and substandard electrical materials. To avoid this from happening, make sure that the electricians you hire are professionals, and that they use high-quality electrical materials.

8. Circuit Overload

With so many new electric devices going out in the market, most homes don’t have enough power points to accommodate all appliances altogether. A lot of homeowners fail to realise the fact that all these new addition to their homes can cause overloading to the power boards. To prevent circuit overload, it is recommended to remove any device on the outlet if they are unused, avoid overloading a single circuit, and avoid plugging a power strip to another power strip. Most importantly, be always mindful of how you use and connect your devices at home.

9. Electrical Shocks

Electricity is safe if we use it correctly and cautiously. But in some cases, we experience electric shock even in justing turning on or off our device, and this might a sign of a problem. Electric shocks might occur when there is a problem with the appliance or with the wiring. Some electric shocks are pretty mild and might not pose a threat. But to ensure safety, you can have your electrical wiring checked by electricians.

10. High Electrical Bill

Many homeowners suffer from extremely high electrical bills. If it is something unusual for your household, you can check with an electrician to see what’s wrong with your electrical system and fix any damage they discover.

There are also some practical steps to lower your electrical bills. These include using electricity wisely, such as unplugging appliances and other devices when not in use, fixing leaks on your home’s hot water system, and looking for a more budget-friendly provider.

You should always prioritise the safety of your home and family. That is why any problem you notice with your electricity, consider getting an electrician to diagnose and fix the problem.

What are the different types of Access Control?

Your Security Needs and Access Control

When it comes to protecting your home or business, as well as the building’s occupants, access control is one of the best ways for you to achieve peace of mind. But, access control is much more than just allowing people to access your building, access control also helps you effectively protect your data from various types of intruders and it is up to your organization’s access control policy to address which method works best for your needs. There are a number of  access control systems you have to choose from to use in your residence or business facility; some outperform others. Outlined below are overviews of the three basic types of access control systems that are available to your company so you can see which are best suited for your day-to-day operations.

Access control Staffordshire

The Types of Access Control Systems

Access Control

An access control system can consist of a number of “access points” which can either grant or deny access to your staff or visitors. An access point is usually a door with an electro-mechanical door lock, but can be a turnstile or a car park barrier and is controlled via an electronic keypad or card.

Simple solutions like electronic keypads can be programmed to allow entry on the input of a valid code and are usually the most simple of access systems. The next level of security is the card based system where each person is issued with a unique coded card which must be presented to a card reader to allow access through the door.

Biometric

Biometric Security utilises a unique part of the body to interface with access control systems such as fingerprint, retina scan or facial recognition.

This solves the problem and all the associated issues with lost cards, forged cards and worn or damaged cards and ensures the correct user can access the appropriate doors. For users the system also has the advantage of removing the need to carry cards or remember pin numbers.

PC Based

Networked or PC based systems are controlled from one central computer or by logging onto networked access control software. Users then have the capability to control all access points with a control system fitted from anywhere in the building, creating individual or group user access pathways and issuing or barring access cards, fobs and tokens as needed.

Choosing the Best Access Control System for Your Organization

As you can see, when it comes to choosing the type of access control system that is most suitable for your organization, there are a number of factors involved. Some of those factors include the nature of your business, security procedures within the organisation, and the number of users on the system.

Why Should Your Business Use Access Control?

Installing Access Control systems at your premises or site is a positive step towards combating and preventing burglary, vandalism and unauthorised access to car parks. It allows you to control who enters your premises and at what times, plus what parts of the building or complex they can access.

Whether you want to restrict and control entrance onto your property, or protect assets in your office, reduce theft in your retail outlet or increase security measures in your factory, SMD Electrical offer multiple Access Control System solutions to choose from.

Have you chosen an access control system for your business? If not, here are SMD Electrical Contractors Ltd reasons why you should choose one right away!

Have you chosen an access control system for your business? If not, here are 8 reasons why you should choose one right away!

No more hassle of duplicating the keys

Every single time you duplicate the key to your building, you are taking a risk, that way an individual other than you can access your property. Sure, you can make them “non-reproducible”, but there are always ways of getting around that. All it takes is one disgruntled employee to create a situation that can have devastating results, like theft, vandalism, and even more serious criminal activity. You might have to change the locks every single time an employee leaves the organization, this option could prove to be highly expensive and it still won’t stop the current employees from sharing the keys if they wanted to.

With an access control system installed, you can avoid all of the above mentioned hassles. With that you can delegate control to one or a handful of individuals who control who enters and exits the facility. Immediate deactivation of an ID badge or other security credential is quick and easy to do.

2. Employee protection

In present times threats are endless, you never know what kind of people walk through your door. To avoid breakthroughs you need get an access control system for your premises. This way you will be able to successfully prevent the unauthorized individuals from entering the premises and you will be able to protect the people who are supposed to be in there working for you. You will have a peace of mind that will increase your job satisfaction and productivity. When your staff feels they are safe from harm during their work hours, they will be able to give in their best every day when they come in to work and that will boost the overall productivity of your business.

Activity monitoring and reporting

An access control system will take note of every person who walks in and out of your door throughout the day. If in an unfortunate circumstance a criminal or intruder were to trespass your premises, this log will prove invaluable in resolving the cases. It can also monitor areas like the card clocks to resolve any timekeeping issues that you might be experiencing. Furthermore, the reports can be generated to determine employee tardiness and other issues that decrease productivity.

It can keep tabs on staff and control their access

If you are a business owner who has employees or contractors, like janitorial staffs who tend to work more than the normal working hours, you can restrict their access to hours and days when they absolutely need to be there.

Additionally, every office might have employees that can have access to only particular areas that are important for their work, and not others. This is crucial in restricting access to sensitive areas or data to only those with the need and clearance to know. An access control system has the power to program ID credentials to limit access to certain areas only.

Remote access control

When an outside contractor or other non-staff member needs access to your secure facility, the authorized individual can secretly open the door for that individual to enter the door. This provides flexibility while also ensuring continued security measures are in place. If you were to combine this with security cameras where you can see an individual, it would add to the already existing security measures of your facility.

We hope that these reasons are enough for you to choose an access control system for your business right away. Remember that you can never be too safe when it comes to your corporate premises. Be a smart business owner and invest in a state-of-the-art control system that provides easy integration. Stay in charge and enjoy peace of mind!

Automated Access

If you’re looking to restrict unauthorised access to your business premises, car parks and grounds, automated entry is a great solution. An Automated Access System solution from SMD Electrical with gates, barriers and vehicle entry systems can be highly effective in the fight against theft, criminal damage and vandalism, and the unauthorised movement of goods.

Control access of vehicles into distribution warehouses, factories, flats and property developments, domestic driveways, offices and car parks with barriers, bollards, doors, shutters and sliding and hinged automated gates.

Automated Access Electronic Control System solutions include Digital coded keypads, proximity readers, radio control, intercom and RFID technology.

5 Factors To Consider When Hiring Electric Company

Electrical services on commercial sector should only be offered by professional electricians. Wiring and other installations are not services that can just be undertaken by inexperienced individual or company hoping that installation will turn out just okay. Planning and the implementation of the whole project require the expertise of electrical contractors that have been doing these types of jobs for several years. In this article, we will explore the main factors that you should consider when choosing an electric company.

Below are the 6 critical factors that you should consider before choosing an electric company.

1. Experience and expertise.

It is critical you check for how long the company has been operating. The best electric company commercial need to have several years of experience and proven expertise.

2. Ask for their license and ask them about their insurance documents.

This is a critical factor that you need to consider it shows the firm is recognized and insured thus in case there were damages they would be covered by insurance company.

3. Inquire regarding the training and seminars that the electricians have undergone.

It is imperative that the employees of the firms have the right technical skills to offer professional services. Electric company commercial need to have experts who have proven track record.

Certain contractors will get laborers from other companies if they lack workers. It is best to ask them for the license of all of the electricians and their line of expertise.

4. The companies reputation

The reputation of the company will help you in making the right decision, the company offering the best services will have a good reputation and this will give you a good indication of the service quality.

5. The company’s safety and precaution policy

The most vital thing when considering contractors is checking their safety program. Check if they have excellent safety programs for their clients and even with their electricians. A reliable and professional electrical service company would never allow their personnel to work without any safety gear.

6. The fee charged

Before reaching the final decision of hiring commercial electric company, it would be best to get a quotation and do bidding, especially for large-scale projects. Provide the scope of work that needs to be done, interview the contractors separately and then use the information to draft the final scope of the work. Make sure that at least 3 electrical companies will bid on the project for better results and for possible discounts.

7. Timeframe

Many electrical projects are time sensitive. You can’t wait for days on end for someone to bring power back to your house, in case of a fuse is blown up. It’s an emergency which needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. So you need to find an electrical contractor who would make your job a priority and give it all its due attention.

Other than the above, some of your electrical projects might be long-term ones such as when you are renovating your house or revamping the whole property. It is really important that the electrical contractors that you work with are reliable and honest. People who give correct project estimates and stick to it. People who give importance to project and don’t cut it short when they get other work or don’t keep elongating your project because they have no work.

Will Security Lighting Help to Protect my Home?

Motion Activated Security Lighting

Motion activated lights are a common form of exterior security lighting. When movement is detected, the lights will then turn on which can alert you to an unwanted guest on your property.

When installing scurity lighting our team of specialists like to advise our clients on the best position to situate the lighting for optimum performance.

It is important to consider where the lights leave unwanted guests exposed to passing traffic and vigilant neighbours, as well as you and your family.

Experienced Security Installers Staffordshire

No matter what your industry or requirements, if you need a local security specialist, Stoke-on-Trent based SMD Electrical Contractors are on hand to provide the solution. Contact us today on 01782 216911.

Burglary Advice for Businesses

How to Prevent a Burglary at your Premises Businesses are at greater risk of being targeted by criminals than private households, so it is vital as a business owner that you take all the necessary precautions to help protect your business and ensure that the people who work for you feel safe in the workplace.

Slow The Burglar Down


Make it as difficult as possible for the burglars to locate the goods and escape – doing so could encourage them to give up trying. To store money or important paperwork, the purchase of a safe is recommended.

Train the Staff

It is important to train your staff on crime prevention – they must understand the importance of looking for suspicious activity and to report it. Inform all staff of the preventative measures in place and how it works.

Lighting

Lighting plays an important part in security. Use internal and external lighting on your premises. It may help to deter a thief and increase the chances of them being seen.

Locking Up

Use top quality locks and bolts on all doors and windows. For extra security, use bars on particularly vulnerable windows and ensure you use the maximum strength glass, or glass film, to help prevent glass from being broken. External shutters are also a great deterrent.

Look After The Inside


Remove high value items from all window displays overnight and leave the till visible, empty and open. Hide the stock in the stock room by keeping windows blackened or boarded up – remember, the less stock you hold on your premises, the less can be taken. Invest in a strong, high quality safe for overnight storage BUT the best policy is to bank your cash at the end of every day.

Intruder Alarm Systems


A vital addition to any business. A burglar setting off a loud alarm whilst trying to enter your premises is not going to stick around for long! Burglar alarms not only act as a visual deterrent, they can also be connected to the Police who will immediately be informed of a potential break-in. CCTV security systems are also a great investment to help protect your business.

Should You Change Your Access Control System?

The technologies behind physical access control are constantly updating and improving. Smart card technology is still the most common as it meets the needs of many organisations. However the steady stream of technological advances in access control means there are many new options available.

With technologies eolving organisations can choose technology that fits their needs in the foreseeable future and plan upgrades as part of a coordinated strategy.

System Compromised

If you’ve recently experienced a security breach, you already know the headache that comes with taking inventory of stock, filing insurance claims, and identifying how the breach happened. On top of all of that, your reputation may also suffer if sensitive data was compromised.

Consider following through on some data breach best practices in these situations. Identify the failures of your current system, and consider bringing in an access control expert to help you assess what happened and what must change to prevent recurrence in the future.

The most foolproof way to do this is to upgrade your system and keep it updated. Technology is always evolving, but so are exploits—so take advantage of upgrades now before it’s too late.

Staff Changes

As new employees join, organisations may manage costs by purchasing additional cards that work with their old technology. Some organizations may also need to change cards due to a new logo or brand, which could be another reason to update the access control system.

You want to add another level of security

Protecting your company and employees is an ongoing job. There’s no such thing as a solution that you can simply install and leave. If you or your neighbouring properties have recently experienced a break-in, it’s especially important to step up the level of security. With the right access control system, you can ensure that only authorised people can gain access to your property.

Is it time?

Well, if you experience any one of the signs above then maybe it’s time to consider switching from your old access control system. After all, it’s the 21st Century and it’s time to embark on a 21st century access control system that would adapt intuitively to your modern needs.

Common Electrical Faults In Your Home

Light switches don’t work

If you move into a new property and a switch doesn’t do anything at all, it may have been disconnected. Alternatively, it could be down to a problem with the outlet, circuit or wiring. This will need the attention of an electrician. Dimmer switches that don’t work properly may be victims of poor workmanship or simply substandard.

Lights are too bright or too dim

There are two likely explanations. You may be inadvertently using different types of lights, with different wattages. Check to make sure they all match. Alternatively, it may be down to a bad main neutral connection. This latter problem needs the attention of a professional.

Repeated electrical surges

These can be caused by damaged power lines, faulty appliances, bad wiring or even lightning strikes. The surge may be short-lived but repeated surges can damage electrical components. Recurring surges are most likely down to an electrical device in your home, or the domestic wiring. If disconnecting cheap appliances or power boards doesn’t end the problem, it’s time to call in an electrician.

Dips in power

These can also be caused by faulty or substandard devices. This time, using too much power when activated.

The circuit breaker keeps tripping

Circuit breakers can be tripped by high-demand items such as hair-dryers and microwaves, especially if other items are used on the same source. Take note of what appliances you had on when the circuit tripped. In future, try putting them on a lower setting. Alternatively, don’t connect multiple high-power devices to one circuit.

Electrical shocks

Thankfully, most electric shocks are relatively mild but, even then, they are a warning sign. They mostly happen when a device is being switched on or off and may be down to either the appliance or the wiring. If you receive any kind of electric shock, no matter how mild, you should definitely call in an expert.

Light bulbs burning out repeatedly

There are various possible causes for this. Your wattage may be too high. Insulation may be too near to the light. There may be bad wiring in the circuit or mains. A dimmer switch may have too much wattage on one switch. Flickering could suggest a poor connection. Again, this may require the attention of an electrician.

Recessed lights turn off then come back on again

Recessed lighting is designed to cut out when it gets too hot. This is likely to be caused by either too much wattage on the bulb or the insulation in the ceiling being too near the bulb. If cut-outs do happen, check for excessive heat, as this can be a fire hazard.

Common Fusebox Problems To Look Out For

A fuse box (sometimes referred to as a breaker panel) represents the electrical “central nervous system” of your home. While these are highly reliable pieces of equipment, there can still be times when problems will occur. These must be addressed by a trained professional for safety reasons. It is nonetheless a good idea to take a look at some common signals that expert help is required. Let’s examine a handful of symptoms that should be diagnosed by a licensed electrician.

Fuses that Frequently Trip for no Apparent Reason

Fuses are meant to protect a home and all associated equipment from electrical overloads. There can be times when a fuse trips or “blows” frequently and subsequently needs to be reset. This is often a symptom of bad wiring or a short circuit contained within the box. An electrician will be able to discover the exact root of this problem.

Fuses that are Loose or Fall Out

Fuses are meant to sit within their terminals snugly. However, there are times when one or more becomes loose. This might signal that the terminals have become corroded or otherwise mechanically impaired. Once again, always seek the advice of an expert as opposed to trying to sort the problem out yourself.

Melted Fuses and/or Burnt Terminals

This is a definite signal that something is awry. Burnt fuses or melted terminals are the result of overheating; a sign that there is a serious problem with the fuse box. If you happen to notice this symptom, call Pulse Electrix as soon as possible. Our electricians in Manchester are more than happy to be of assistance.

Strange Smells or Sounds Emitting from the Fuse Box

Have you recently noticed strange hissing or popping noises coming from the fuse box? Does it emit a strong or acrid odour? These are concrete signs that there is a serious internal issue. Once again, do not wait to speak with a professional. Such problems will not disappear on their own and in severe cases, a fire could occur.

A fuse box is one of the most important electrical components within your home, so it only makes sense that regular maintenance and safety checks are critical. Please do not hesitate to use this article as a quick checklist if you suspect that an issue may be present. Finally, always employ the services of a fully licensed and insured electrician.

How Secure is Your Home – 5 Home Security Tips

1. All locked up

Police suggest many opportunistic thieves take advantage of unlocked homes. Even if you are going out for a short time, lock-up your house and windows. Locksmiths can provide advice on appropriate door and window locks, and key all the windows to a single key.

2. Don’t provide cover

Deter thieves from targeting your house by ensuring a clear line of sight from the street. Cut back trees and bushes that block your front door, look into installing movement sensor lights and report broken street lights straight away.

3. Security doesn’t take a holiday

Ask friends to collect your mail and to stop junk mail from building up in your letterbox while you’re away from home. A neighbour parking in your driveway can also help signal the house is not unoccupied. Other measures could include internal lights or a radio set on timers and organising for someone to mow your lawn.

4. Don’t advertise valuables

Break up packaging for expensive new gear before tucking it into the bin or recycling. Also, take a look at your house from the outside. With most thieves looking for cash, even a wallet or iPod left on your hall table can make your home a target. Speaking of valuables, police advise making an inventory of your belongings to have at hand in case of a break-in. Mark your property using an engraver or ultra-violet markers and take photos of precious, one-of-a-kind possessions.

5. Install an alarm or deter thieves with a dog

Add another layer of defence to your home with an alarm system. A barking dog can also provide effective security for your home. Even installing a “Beware of the dog” sign can make thieves hesitate targeting your home.

6. Make friends with your neighbours

In tight knit communities, people look out for each other. Neighbours can report suspicious activity at your home and help when you’re away – and you can return the favour. Check with your neighbours to see if a neighbourhood watch is currently in place.

Can I Install CCTV at my Property?

Before getting a CCTV system for your home, there are a couple of quick considerations you should think about first.
  • • Why do I need CCTV?
  • • And what do I want the security camera(s) to record?
  • • How will the recording be stored?
You have the right to protect your property, and CCTV is just one of the possible security measures you can take. If you rent a home then you will firstly need to see written permission from your landlord before installing CCTV as part of the installation will require drilling holes into the wall.

What Are The Benefits of Installing CCTV in Your Home?

Live CCTV - SMD Electrical Contractors We’ve gathered together some of the key benefits of using a CCTV system can have at your place of work and residency.
  • • Deter Criminal Activity
  • • Reduce Home Insurance Rates
  • • Increased security
  • • Monitors activities

Deter Criminal Activity

Just like seeing a mounted alarm system a potential intruder will see cameras and deter any intrusion.

Reduce Home Insurance Costs

By taking steps to make your property more secure and reduce the likelihood of your property being damaged or vandalised you are more likely to reduce your policy cost.

Increased security

A camera system provides people with an increased sense of security and reassurance, particularly in areas with a high rate of criminal activity.

Data Protection Act 1998 when installing home CCTV

Most home security cameras capture footage from beyond your property boundary; it’s often unavoidable. So it is important that you follow these guidelines: • Put up clear signs for transparency that CCTV is in operation • Only use the footage for security purposes • Secure storage of the data and for as long as you need it • Don’t release the footage to third parties Where a camera has been installed to prevent crime, you can keep the footage for as long as you need to detect and prosecute the crime. The footage captured can also be passed on to the police and other local authorities. SMD Electrical have a team of friendly installation engineers available to meet demand across Staffordshire & Cheshire Contact 01782 216911 for information or for a quotation.

What Are The Benefits of Outdoor Lighting

As the days grow longer and the nights get warmer, more people will be spending time outside. But no one wants to be outside in the dark. So why should you have exterior lighting for your home?

The main reason to have exterior lighting is to extend your living space. Are you someone who likes to entertain? Whether you have a simple patio or a backyard, adding exterior lighting will allow you to use those spaces more and for a longer period of time. That way you will be able to extend your backyard barbecues and have more outside social events.

Another reason to add exterior lighting to your outside space is for safety and security. Adding exterior lighting to your home helps to deter burglars and vandals, keeping your house, its members and your valuables safe. You can also use exterior lighting to illuminate walkways or other paths around your house, allowing you to use those things safely.

Exterior lighting is also a great way to add curb appeal to your home. Adding exterior lighting will enhance your home’s appearance and make it stand out from surrounding houses. You can also use exterior lighting to highlight certain architectural features, adding prominence to a sculpture or water feature.

Just like interior lighting, exterior lighting has changed over the years. With the advent of LED technology, exterior lighting has become more cost effective and worthwhile. Regardless of your reason, adding exterior lighting to your living space is a great thing to do, especially during the spring and summer months.

Should I Call a Domestic Electrician for a Tripping Fuse Box?

9 times out of 10, a tripping fuse board is doing its job correctly – protecting you from potentially dangerous electrical faults in your home. Our fully insured expert electricians can inspect your electrics and advise you on what’s causing the fuse board to trip, whether it’s inadequate wiring or a faulty appliance.

What to do when RCDs trips?

First thing to do reset it by turning RCD back on, you may find it trips straight back off again. In this case turn all MCBs (fuses) off, then try to reset RCD by turning it on. If the RCD stays on then one by one turn MCBs on. If there is a fault on one of the circuits, RCD will trips out by one of the MCBs (fuses). In that case leave faulty fuse off then contact an Electrician.

If RCD won’t switch on even when all MCBs (fuses) are off, then go around the house and unplug all plugs from sockets and turn off all switches (light and …) Don’t worry about things you can’t get to them or no access to unplug. Then go back to RCD and turn it on, if it stays on then turn MCBs (fuses) on one by one then go back and plug in, all plugs one by one till one of them trips RCD off. Then you know what is the fault. If you find fault is in lighting circuit by turning light switch on and that trips RCD of then contact electrician.

Faulty Electrical Appliance

Do you find that the problem is triggered every time you plug in or switch on a particular appliance? If so, this is the likely cause. Replacing a kettle or iron may be the solution.

If you are unsure about the cause, head back to the fuse box and see which other switches are off. Go to the room affected and switch off all electrical items at the socket. Put the fuse box switches back to the on position. Now work around the room, switching on the items that you wish to use. Do any cut the electricity supply?

Overloaded Plug Sockets

Can you see that one plug socket is powering too many items? An extension lead charging multiple active devices from one socket could cause a surge of electricity. Spreading the load could resolve the issue.

If you are short on plug sockets, a domestic electrician can install additional ones at convenient points around your home.

Faulty Wiring

If you have a reoccurring issue and the main circuit breaker is the only switch that goes off, it usually suggests an earth fault in the fuse box wiring. This is the point when you need to call out a domestic electrician.

Ask your local electrician to undertake an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). This will cover a test of the circuits to diagnose the issue. They will check that the fuse box is safe to use, look at the general wear and tear and ensure that your circuits meet the IET wiring regulations. Minor issues can usually be resolved during that visit and they will provide you with a copy of the report.

If it no longer complies with current standards, your domestic electrician will need to replace the fuse box. This is non-negotiable, as the priority is your safety.

Call on your local Domestic Electrician in Staffordshire

Does your property have fire protection? GET PROTECTED!!!! Contact 01782 216911 for information or for a quotation.

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