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Structured Cabling in Industries – Integral or A Waste of Time

Sat, 27 Feb 2021 07:37:58 GMT

Should you focus on haste when setting up cables for a service at your workplace or is it better to take your time to get things down to the T. Structured cabling might actually be a lot more important than you might imagine and the time you save doing a messy job could cost you in the long run. Here are some things that can go wrong:

Random Faults

Not having structured cables can result in your data lines going down every now and then. Cables can fall out of their end-points, causing one or multiple people or services to go down. For workplaces, this is extremely detrimental to the workflow and can lead to some significant downtime.

In the worst-case scenario, the cables could be hidden away in such a manner that might require a licensed electrical contractor to come in and do the job, only increasing the duration of the downtime.

Incompatible Connections

Another major downside of not taking your time to sort out your cables is connecting them at the wrong end-points. It requires you to unplug everything in order to restart or establish the connection again. In some cases, it might work even in an incompatible port but you may not get the full performance for the connection that you paid for.

Harder to Troubleshoot

The first headache comes in the form of service disconnection and figuring out whether it’s a problem with the service provider, the machine you’re working or the cables. These are usually the last bit you look at as they are least considered.

Once you do figure out it’s a problem with the cabling, you then have to find out the root of the problem. If it’s an unstructured jumble mess, the delay only increases as you have to slowly separate them all without damaging any of the wires to find the culprit.

With White Horse Electric Inc., you can ensure that you get your cabling done right the first time around. We follow instructions to the letter and cut no corners, setting a connection that’s tidy, easy to manage and not a problem to maintain for the long run. We have been working in San Diego for the last 50 years, providing residential , commercial , and industrial electric services.

Get in touch with us to learn how we can be of help to your home or business.

Restaurant Appliances and Fixtures That Consume Electricity

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 07:31:17 GMT

Restaurant owners are always looking to save a buck without compromising on the quality of their establishment. It may seem like a myth but there are actual ways you can achieve this goal. Here are a few appliances that are bringing up your electricity bill and how you can deal with them without losing out on much (or anything at all):

Refrigerators

The refrigerators used in restaurants are different from the typical fridge within homes as they run at lower temperatures to maintain an insulated environment, keeping stock fresh for longer spans. Naturally, these consume a lot of electricity but you can bring down that power consumption to some extent by calibrating the temperatures and turning it up a few degrees.

It’ll make a big difference on a longer timeline without spoiling the goods within your refrigerator. Look into techniques to better storing your goods in the refrigerator for extra effect.

Heating Equipment

Similar to freezers and fridges, the equipment used to heat up and cook food also takes quite a hit on your electricity bill. The first thing you can do is cook for longer at lower temperatures rather than the other way around for the most cost-effective solutions. Using ovens rather than rotisseries and griddles over broilers is also highly recommended as both of the alternatives consume a lot less energy.

One trick that chefs often use is to leave out food to thaw on its own rather than microwave it. Using pots that keep in heat well is also recommended to not have to reheat food in case it cools down.

Lighting

While directly not related to food, restaurant owners will admit that keeping the lights on (literally) is often a major contributor to their expenses. An easy way to get around this is to use dimmers for lights. You can get away with this by setting up an ambiance that allows you to turn down the lights and create a mood.

A practical solution would be to use energy-efficient bulbs as they consume less power while providing the same or better luminance, just ask a licensed electrical contractor to hook you up with those. Turning the lights off whenever feasible is always a good idea.

Restaurant owners in San Diego can avail the services of White Horse Electric Inc. for all their electrical problems. We’ll look into your freezers, stoves and lights to help you keep them running optimally and efficiently. We also cater to residential , commercial , and industrial electric jobs.

Get in touch with us today.

Difference Between Residential and Commercial LED Retrofitting

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 07:25:04 GMT

Retrofitting is the process of adding new technology to older installations, such as adding a new piece of electronic to a vintage outlet. By using the right kind of mounts and connections, older pieces of machinery and electronics can be utilized and repurposed. LEDs fall into this category as well. But should you consider it for your business?

Why Retrofitting Is Popular

Older LEDs and lighting solutions consume significantly more electricity while newer solutions take up less power while providing a lot more light. It can save up on excessive cabling and rerouting in some cases by jacketing in the solutions to existing ports with a mount that works.

Residential Retrofitting

Residential retrofitting is a brilliant way of saving up power and electricity in the long run. Due to the smaller scale of the average home, it is significantly cheaper than commercial LED retrofitting. The bulbs used for residential properties and their energy-efficient counterparts are cheaper in general, allowing for a cost-effective method of increasing the luminance within your home while still being able to save up on money.

The retrofit process can be difficult as the wiring inside homes is often very old and rarely changed, hence the installation procedure of newer installations might be tedious.

Commercial Retrofitting

Commercial retrofitting involves a higher upfront cost. But it pays off for itself in the long run by saving up on a lot of power without any compromise on the luminance the bulbs provide for your premises. Because of their larger sizes and higher wattages, commercial installations are different from residential LED solutions.

They also have features like variable brightness, color temperature changing features which have to be accounted for. These require a licensed electrician to replace when retrofitting to get the best possible results.

If you’re looking for retrofitting for your home or business and happen to be in San Diego, White Horse Electric Inc. has just the services you require. With over 50 years of experience in the field, we have a large number of clients with our residential , commercial , and industrial electric services. Fixtures new and old, we can deal with them all.

Our licensed electrical contractors are determined to solve any problem you face, with our number one priority being customer satisfaction. Get in touch with us today so we can get to work on your property.

Setting Up Optimal Lighting in Commercial Buildings

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 07:19:11 GMT

Proper lighting is crucial to ensure that your workplace is positive for the productivity of your employees. Working in poor lighting is actually detrimental and can cause health problems in the long run. While setting up lights may not seem like rocket science, there are several considerations that you have to make to get the most out of it:

Using LEDs

Fluorescent bulbs, commonly known as tungsten filament bulbs, are usually cheaper. But their biggest problem is that they take up more power and end up becoming dimmer with time as they degrade in quality.

The best solution is to use LEDs instead. They’re cost-effective, consume less power while providing equal if not more luminance than any tungsten alternative. The materials used in these are also safer for the environment, so you’re doing good in more than one way.

Positioning the Lights Properly

Now that you’ve got your LEDs all ready to be installed, don’t just install them overhead. Overhead illumination can actually be detrimental at times as it can cast a shade over the people below it as well as an unnecessary glare over screens, which is bad for the eyes .

Go with ambient lighting and position it in such a way that it does not directly reflect on screens or is obstructed by people being in the way. Consider getting lamps to place near your employees and their desks, as those can easily be adjusted as per requirement.

Using Natural Light

The best source of light costs nothing, as the sun provides ample illumination to keep your place bright enough. It won’t be bright outside all the time, but you can make the most of it by keeping those blinds down during the day.

Once it gets dark, turn on those beautiful LEDs that you just set up for your workplace to light things up. It’s a great way of saving up on electricity bills with little to no effort on your end.

Looking to install lights for your office or replace those old ones with energy-efficient technology? If you’re in San Diego, we’ve got licensed electrical contractors that will come down to have things sorted out. White Horse Electric Inc. offers residential , commercial , and industrial electric services.

Our number one priority is customer satisfaction, with a heavy focus on producing top-notch services at competitive prices in the area. Contact us today so that we can get started!

Is It Okay to Ignore Ungrounded Outlets?

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 07:15:46 GMT

Grounded outlets have a three-prong construction , which sends unwanted charge towards the neutral wire rather than appliances connected to the outlet. It ensures that whatever is connected to the outlet remains safe in case something goes wrong. Unfortunately, ungrounded outlets are more common than you might imagine and can lead to several risks.

If you have one in your home, you’re preparing yourself up for the following:

Health hazards

The first and biggest risk that an ungrounded outlet can cause is to your health. These can cause shocks upon coming into contact, whether by touching the outlet or by plugging any appliance into the socket.

Any outlets that are in your bathroom, kitchen or any other place with water in the vicinity should be grounded to make sure no one gets hurt. The shock generated by these can be extremely dangerous to the point of being lethal .

Electrical fires

Arcing is the phenomenon of electricity making its way away from its circuit or channel. It is very dangerous due to the anomalous behavior of electricity, which runs the risk of coming into contact with items that are outside the outlet. Arcing is very common in ungrounded outlets, which can cause anything nearby to catch fire.

Carpets or flammables nearby an ungrounded outlet is simply a recipe for disaster. Call in a licensed electrical contractor right away if there’s one in a place where you keep valuables.

Property loss

Even if you’re extremely careful about the ungrounded outlets within your home or office, there’s energy loss that can still occur. The electronics and appliances that you plug into these sockets can be short-circuited. Whatever is connected to the appliance may die if it is unable to withstand the power the circuit pushes towards it.

Not spending the small price to fix the outlet could lead to a bigger loss than you might imagine.

Don’t let a bit of negligence lead to a big loss that you regret for ages. Call in licensed electrical contractors to come in and fix any electrical problems within your home or office. White Horse Electric Inc. has been providing electric services in San Diego for 50 years, offering residential , commercial , and industrial clients.

Our licensed electricians are committed to quality, excellence and guaranteeing customer satisfaction at reasonable prices. Cont act us today, so we can get started on making your home or business safer.

House Rewiring: When is it Necessary?

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 02:46:47 GMT

Rewiring doesn't just refer to replacing an old set of wires with a new one. During the process, the electrical contractor will also replace other essential elements, such as electrical panels , to safely accommodate your appliances.

Do you need to get your home rewired? Here are a few signs that indicate that you do.

Burning Smell

If you haven’t burnt the cupcakes in the oven and can still smell something burning, it could be the wiring. The smell of an electrical burn is usually identifiable and very distinctive. Typically, the small is faint and results from an electrical short. If the fire has occurred near the switches, you'll be able to identify it quickly. If you're unable to do so, likely, the wiring (behind the walls or under the floor) is shorting. In this case, turn off the power source, disconnect the appliances, and call a qualified electrician to take a look.

Your Property Is Old

If you've been living in the same house for 25–30 years and haven't gotten it rewired, now is the time to do so. If you've just moved in, we recommend asking the previous owners about the last time the property was rewired. If they're not sure, get it rewired just in case. This will upgrade the electrical system up to the current standards and the latest building codes.

A rewired property will be able to handle the demand of your modern appliances better. Outdated wiring and new appliances could be a potentially dangerous combination. You might also need to get your home rewired.

Similarly, if you've recently extended your home or made some significant renovations/additions, you need to make sure the new wiring conforms to the safety standards. In this case, it's better to get the entire house rewired to ensure satisfactory cross-bonding.

Power Fluctuations

Power fluctuations become more frequent when your wiring becomes loose, the sockets are overloaded, or the conductor transmitting power to your appliances is too small. If none of these applies, something might be wrong with the wiring. As a result, you may notice flickering lights, an increasing reliance on extension cords, discolored switches and outlets, frequently blown fuses, burning light bulbs, and regularly tripping circuit breakers.

White Horse Electric Inc. has made home rewiring easy for the residents of San Diego. Get in touch , and we will cater to your residential electrician needs. We are electrical contractors and have over fifty years of collective experience dealing with all sorts of electrical repair jobs.

8 Tips for Lowering Your Energy Bills

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 17:38:38 GMT

With new and improved technology making our life easy every day, we’re getting more and more dependent on electrical appliances. While it has significantly increased our standard of living, it has doubly increased our electricity bills.

According to the US Energy Information Administratio n , an average American household spends $117.65 on electricity every month. Given the rise in utility prices, this number is bound to increase in the future. Check out these 8 tips to cut down on your energy bills.

1. Audit Your Energy Consumption

It’s an essential part to begin the cutting process. An energy audit will help you analyze where you can save power. If your local electrical contractor doesn’t provide you with an energy audit service, you can do your own energy audit .

2. Get Dimmer Switches

Dimmer switches can allow you to control the amount of light you want in a room. If you’re entertaining the guests, you may want bright light, but when you’re taking a nap, a dim light will suffice.

3. Fill Up Your Fridge

You must’ve heard people telling you to close your fridge. But did you know that you can save energy by keeping your fridge full? A full fridge reduces the space the cold air needs to fill. Therefore, the refrigerator doesn’t have to work all the time, filling the warm gaps with cold air.

4. Dry Your Laundry in Open Air

Have a clothesline in your backyard and let your clothes air-dry. If you live in an apartment and don’t have a backyard, you can hang your clothes on the shower road or a drying rack on your balcony.

5. Avoid Phantom Loads

Did you know that a staggering 75% of energy is consumed by home electronic items when they’re turned off? Phantom loads come from DVD players, TV, a stereo system, microwave ovens, dishwashers, and more. To avoid this, unplug all these appliances after use.

6. Shield Your Home

Reduce the use of air-con by closing the blinds and curtains on your property’s sunny side. You can also install tinted windows for added protection. To take it a notch further, you can strategically landscape your yard to provide shade to areas that face the sun during the day.

7. Regular HVAC Maintenance

It's essential to schedule maintenance for your HVAC system once a year to ensure that it's working in optimum conditions. You must also change its filters every month to ensure efficient working and clean HVAC systems. Set reminders on your phone for this.

8. Make a Switch to LED Lighting

Did you know that LED bulbs consume 90% less energy and perform 75% better than incandescent lighting? If your budget allows, switch your home’s lighting to LED. You’ll save immensely in the long run and reduce energy bills from the get-go.

Get in Touch with Leading Electrical Contractors

Are you looking for residential and commercial electrical contractors in San Diego? Contact White Horse Electric. Their team has a collective experience of five decades and can perform any task with precision and utmost professionalism.

3 Impacts of Solar Energy on the Environment

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 17:29:51 GMT

Solar power generation is one of the technological laurels that we must cherish. Solar energy has been gaining a lot of attention in recent years. To encourage more households and businesses to install solar systems, the US government has decreased its prices to 50% since 2014, giving a 35-fold rise to its installation.

While we know that we can save vast sums of money by going solar, did you know that solar energy can positively impact the environment? This blog focuses on 3 positive impacts of solar energy on our environment.

1. Reduction in Water Scarcity

Water scarcity is an active threat to millions around the world. Did you know that power generation uses vast amounts of water — hundreds and thousands of liters? It’s used in the process of refining fuels and cool power generators. Nuclear energy and hydropower rely on immense volumes of water from dams. These can adversely affect the ecosystem.

Solar panels take their energy from the sun to generate electricity reducing the burden on scarce water resources. According to statistics , if the US makes a switch to solar energy, it can save enough water for 1.3 million homes!

2. Less Usage of Finite Resources

People rely on natural gas, coal, and oil for electricity generation. Earth only contains a finite pool of these fossil fuels. Solar panel power generation reduces the stress on limited resources like these and lessens their adverse effects on the environment.

Drilling, mining, transportation, and burning of fossil fuels release various harmful gases into the atmosphere, leading to significant calamities like global warming and acid rain. These gases are a public health concern, and reducing the use of fossil fuels can save up to 25,000 lives . Shifting to solar power will lessen the dependence on finite fossil fuels and significantly increase the air quality leading to a healthy life.

3. Less Air Pollution

Complete and incomplete combustion of fossil fuels releases various pollutants into the atmosphere. With time, air pollution can increase and make the air unfit to breathe. It can also lead to myriad health issues like cancer, bronchitis, allergies, asthma, pneumonia, anxiety, headaches, and heart attacks.

Shifting to solar energy doesn’t affect our environment, and we can quickly reduce the level the air pollution by installing solar panels.

Get Solar Panels Installed

Switching to solar energy can reap a range of benefits for your health and the environment. Are you ready to make this shift? Contact White Horse Electric. Our experts can install solar panels in your home or your commercial building in San Diego. Start on your journey of environment-friendly power production and sustainable energy, and save on thousands of dollars starting today!

Tips for Choosing the Best Electrical Contractor

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 16:41:40 GMT

Whether you want to get the entire business facility rewired or a minor area retrofitted, choosing the right electrical contractor could be challenging! It's always a good idea to get references from the neighbors, read reviews, and do your research.

Here are a few tips to make the process easy for you.

Look At Their Experience

The greater the number of years serving an area, the more well-versed an electrician is. It's always a risk to hand over your complicated electrical jobs to an untrained and inexperienced electrician. An experienced electrician is also aware of the local building codes and laws that your electrical system must comply with.

It's always a good idea to ask the company what size jobs they usually cater to and what types of projects they've done in the past. If the electrician is requesting a sizeable down payment to buy some of the materials, it's a warning sign that they're a new company and might lack financial stability. Make sure you're not a small electrician service's first 'big job.'

Ask If They Are Licensed

Most businesses often fall for low bids to save money. This is a very myopic approach and only results in short-term cost-saving. Don't get carried away by low prices. We recommend checking whether the electrical contractor has the right licensing and insurance needed for your job. If an electrician is licensed, they would also carry workers' liability and compensation to pay for any accidents that might occur at your premises. Licensed electricians also follow the safety guidelines laid down by The National Electrical Code (NCE) . Similarly, an electrical contractor with additional certifications will naturally be more credible and know what they're doing.

Do They Offer A Holistic Suite Of Services?

An electrician contractor's service portfolio speaks volumes about their skill and expertise. If you're a commercial client, prioritize a contractor that can install commercial electrical fixtures , facilitate power distribution and troubleshooting, and can also carry out routine upgrades and maintenance.

Similarly, as a residential client , you need someone who can install home security lighting and outdoor lights, electrical fixtures (light and fans), home theatre systems, phone and data cabling, and electrical pool work. A good residential electrician can cater to minor electrical fixes, and complete home rewires. No job is too small or too big for them.

It's an added bonus if the electrical contractor can install solar panels and help your business/household become more energy-efficient.

If you’re based in San Diego, you’re in luck! White Horse Electric Inc. is an electrical contractor that provides electrical services in San Diego. We have over 50 years of collective experience in catering to your residential and commercial industrial needs. Get in touch for a quote !

How to Hire a Qualified Electrician for Your Home

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 16:30:04 GMT

Imagine that you’re watching a movie with your family on a Saturday night, and all of a sudden, your home theatre system stops working. Sounds infuriating, doesn’t it? It could be due to faulty wiring.

The US Fire Administration reported 24,000 residential electrical fires from 2014 to 2016, the leading cause of which is faulty wiring by an inexperienced electrician. Therefore, hiring a qualified electrician for your home is extremely important.

Here’s how you can vet if your electrical contractor is qualified.

What Qualification Should They Have?

Extensive training and education are required for electrical work. Electricians should work as interns before they can receive a license to practice independently. Securing an electrician’s license requires 3 steps:

Finish a 4-year apprenticeship

Complete a year-long formal training

Pass 2 location-specific exams to earn their license and certificate.

After these three steps, an apprentice can begin their practice without being supervised by a journeyman electrician. While different states have different licensing requirements, California-based electricians must get their license from the Contractors State License Board .

What Safety Precautions Must They Take?

Statistics show that electricians suffer more injuries as compared to other contractors. While injuries are rarely fatal, they include getting shocked, burned, or falling. The electrician must wear safety gear like goggles, gloves, and rubber boots while working to prevent damage.

Some Questions That You Should Ask an Electrician Before Hiring

What licenses, certificates, and credentials do you possess?

Will there be any drilling done? If so, how much?

Will you work indoor or outdoor?

How many people will accompany you?

Do I need to be present while you’re doing the job?

Will bad weather impact your job?

What additional accessories or parts do you need to complete the job?

How long will the work take?

How Much Should You Pay?

Electrician fee varies according to region, work, and the time required to complete the task. Some electricians charge on an hourly basis, while others charge per project. Usually, an average electrician would cost between $50 to $100 per hour. But don’t take the risk of opting for a cheap service and compromising on the quality of the workmanship.

Trusted Residential Electrical Contractors in San Diego

If you’re looking for a trusted residential electrician, contact White Horse Electric. We have a collective experience of five decades working in this industry, and our expert residential electricians and electrical contractors in San Diego can offer you impeccable service at a moment’s notice.

Importance of Maintaining Commercial Stoves and Freezers

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 16:03:10 GMT

Managing a commercial kitchen is more than taking food orders and overseeing waiters. It requires you to ensure that the kitchen's equipment, like stoves and freezers, are routinely maintained to avoid lags in operation.

According to the Food Code by the US Public Health Service, you must clean your commercial kitchen equipment after every 24 hours. However, maintaining your restaurant's freezers and stoves isn't limited to a deep clean. It requires you to lubricate their motors, glides, and hinges and get the appliances regularly inspected by experts to ensure that things are in working order.

Here are 3 reasons why it's essential to maintain your commercial freezers and stoves.

1. Fewer Equipment Failures

Stoves and fridges are the heart of your commercial kitchen. Unexpected equipment failures can spoil the meat and produce. To prevent this, get your kitchen equipment regularly inspected by a certified restaurant appliance inspection service. It's smart to carry warranties on your appliances. This way, you can replace or repair the equipment quickly.

Pro tip: Budget for equipment failures to replace the equipment right away, if it's out of warranty.

2. Good Quality Food and Service

Dysfunctional fridges and stoves will impact your food's taste and your service's speed. It'll lose you your customer base and your restaurant's reputation. If you prepare food on second-rate equipment, your customers will notice the decline in the quality of food, and that'll cause a decline in your restaurant's income potential.

Let your food shine and satisfy customers with well-maintained stoves and freezers.

3. Longer Life for Equipment

It's a fact that restaurant kitchen equipment is an expensive investment. You'll have to spend thousands of dollars on replacing a single kitchen appliance that has stopped functioning due to lack of maintenance. Timely maintenance — cleaning, oiling, servicing — can significantly increase your equipment's lifespan. Get the most out of your commercial fridge and stove by regular maintenance and save money in the long run!

Get Expert Restaurant Electrical Services in San Diego, CA

You can't afford to let go of your valued diners! Contact White Horse Electric for a top of the line restaurant electrical service . Our licensed commercial electricians can take care of your expensive kitchen equipment and ensure that you're up and running in no time. Our electrical contractors also handle residential and industrial projects.

Top 4 Reasons You Need Custom Lighting in Your Restaurant

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 15:57:57 GMT

Your customers should experience the juxtaposition of the bustling crowd, eclectic dishes, and calming visuals within your restaurant. While many people may think that food sets the tone of a restaurant’s space, we disagree. We believe that your restaurant’s lighting sets the mood right when the customer enters the space.

Here are 4 reasons why your restaurant needs custom lighting.

1. They Set the Mood

What type of restaurant do you have? Is it a fine-dining space that people visit for date nights and official dinners, or is it a casual space that sells tacos and burritos? You can set the mood of the space by using custom lighting. The right kind of fixtures and the appropriate color and intensity of the light can help you achieve the ambiance you’re striving for. Focus the lighting on places of interest. You can use a combination of a variety of lightings like task lighting, ambiance lighting, and accent lighting. Layering these lights can give you the ideal visual effect you’re going for.

2. They’re Flexible

Custom lighting gives you the liberty to change its intensity during different times of the day. Like your home, the restaurant also needs different kinds and intensities of lighting throughout the day. A brightly lit up space during breakfast wakes people up, and dim and soft lighting during dinner makes for a relaxed ambiance. During the installation process, ensure that you install a dimming panel to adjust the light’s brightness and colors flexibly.

3. You Can Stick to Your Theme

While different overlapping fixtures and light designs can create an attractive visual appeal, you mustn’t break away from your restaurant’s theme. It doesn’t mean that you go for boring uniform lights, but it also doesn’t mean that you pair Tiffany lamps with neon signs and drum lights either. Work with a blend of styles that work for the space.

4. You Can Be Creative

From diffused lighting to letting natural light illuminate the space, restaurant lighting lets you be creative. Your space’s illumination doesn’t solely depend on the lighting itself; your furniture and décor play a vital role in it too. We advise that you go for light-colored, non-glossy tabletops and floors instead of dark-colored ones. They will allow the light to reflect without forming a glare, making it easy for diners to enjoy their meal and not get annoyed by reflections. You can also add up-lights on the art pieces, backlights on the bar, and LEDs on the shelves.

Time to Light up Your Restaurant!

Are you looking for custom restaurant lighting in San Diego? Contact White Horse Electric. Their experienced commercial electrical contractors can give recommendations and install lights and lighting fixtures coherent with your restaurant’s theme. They also offer residential and industrial lighting services.

The Importance of Lighting in a Restaurant- Infographic

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 15:50:48 GMT

"3 Signs You Should Be Upgrading Your Panels"

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 15:49:00 GMT

The electric panel is the backbone of your home's electrical system. Within it, you can find a switch for nearly every room. It’s tasked with the duty of carrying electricity to every appliance and outlet you use, making its functionality vital.

When you start to notice problems with the electric appliances in your home, more often than not, it's due to a faulty panel! Here are some quick tips for identifying whether your home’s electric panel needs upgrading.

Breakers Constantly Tripping

Electric panels usually have circuit breakers installed to help monitor the flow of electricity. A trip in the circuit breaker usually occurs to stop electricity from flowing when the panel is overheating, or when there is a power surge or loose wiring.

While tripping once in a while is normal, constant circuit breaker trips are a cause for concern. Exposed wiring or overheating can cause problems with electrocution or even fires.

Old Electric Panels

Sometimes, the easiest way to figure out if your panel needs to be upgraded is to count back to when you got it installed. If it's been more than 20 years, you should get it changed as soon as possible!

Electric panels back in the 90s were designed to only bear the load of basic household appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines and will most probably range from 70 to 100 amps. However, newer homes have panels with at least 200 amps. It’s best to upgrade your panel to suit your home’s requirements and higher power demands.

Burning Smell

The smell of electric fires is familiar and incredibly unpleasant. If you find yourself smelling burning from your panel or notice heavy discoloration around the panel box, you need to contact an electrician immediately.

A licensed electrician can assess the problem and prevent further complications with electric appliances throughout your house. Frequent panel tripping and flickering lights can damage your appliances and leave you with hefty repair bills.

You can reach out to us at White Horse Electric Inc. to get in touch with an electrical contractor in San Diego. Our licensed electricians can inspect your home’s panel and replace it for you as soon as possible.

We also provide maintenance services, so you don't have to worry about a malfunctioning panel damaging your home's appliances. Contact us today for more information on our services.

Installing New Lights- Infographic

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 15:42:04 GMT

In this infographic we will explain why it is important that you hire a professional electrician when installing new lights in your facility.

Performing an Electrical Safety Check Before Moving

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 15:37:07 GMT

Reports by the US National Fire Protection Association show that 44,880 homes experience electrical fires causing 1370 injuries and 500 deaths every year.

According to a recommendation by the Electrical Safety Foundation International , you must conduct an electrical inspection of a home before moving into a previously-owned property, as it can help you detect the cause of these fires before they wreak havoc.

Here are 3 things you should look for.

1. Switches and Outlets

Firstly, ensure that all the outlets have three-pronged plugs and that all switches and outlets contain plate covers. If you have toddlers or babies, you'll have to cover all the outlets with outlet plugs. So, count all of the empty outlets.

Secondly, take note of any sign of damage or looseness. Cracked plates and loose switches can put you at risk of fire and electrocution. If there's discoloration or warmth on or around the outlet, don't use it. Call an electrician to check for faulty wiring.

Similarly, if you hear a crackling or buzzing sound coming from an outlet or switch, it could be because of faulty wiring and must be inspected by an electrician immediately.

2. Light Fixtures

Ensure that all wall-mounted or ceiling fixtures are tightly screwed and secure. Don't forget to note the wattage of the fixtures and bulbs . In case the previous owner used a bulb with wattage higher than the fixture could handle, it can overheat and start a fire near any combustible material like paper lamps or wallpaper.

3. Electrical Panel

The circuit breaker and fuses in your home's electrical panel can save you from fires as they prevent your home's electrical system from voltage overload. Ensure that all the fuses are the correct size for the circuit as the wrong size can overheat the wiring.

Make sure that your electrical panel has AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters) installed. They’re a unique kind of circuit breaker that checks for unsafe electrical fluctuations that can lead to fires and tripped circuits. According to the National Electrical Code , depending on different areas in the US, some home requires mandatory AFCI installation.

Get Expert Residential Electrical Services in San Diego, CA

Contact White Horse Electric for a top of the line residential electrical service . Our licensed residential electricians can take care of your home’s electrical equipment and ensure that you don’t face any unfortunate, unforeseen events because of faulty wiring or fluctuating voltages. Our electrical contractors also handle commercial and industrial projects.

Using Thermal Scanning for Commercial Electrical Work

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 15:27:47 GMT

One of the essential components of executing effective preventative maintenance for commercial electrical systems is completing its thermal imaging tests , also categorically known as Predictive Maintenance Fault Finding .

Licensed electricians use thermal imaging technology to determine the thermal differences between various electrical components and surfaces to determine the faults or breakdowns in numerous systems. In other words, thermal imaging tests help electricians investigate electrical systems to indicate early signs of shortcomings. In fact, thermal imaging’s real value in electrical work lies in its ability to foresee damage efficiently.

Thermography in thermal imaging involves a built-in infrared camera that detects over heated electrical switchboards to report loose connections that would put the system at risk of overloaded circuits, unbalanced electric loads, and potential fire hazards.

Following are some of the common benefits of thermal imaging for commercial and industrial electrical work.

Early Detection of Electrical Faults

The most apparent benefit of employing a thermal imaging system is early detection during a preventative maintenance check. It monitors temperatures and thermal patterns to alarm the electrician of any possible faults.

While it’s critical for commercial electricians to create a preventative maintenance schedule for their clients, they must also include thermal imaging. These tests are highly safe, efficient, save time and long-term expenses by detecting damage long before it occurs.

Low Risk of Fire Hazards

Hot electrical components usually indicate a loose connection in a switchboard. When loose connections are left untreated, they lead to an unbalanced electric supply or an overloaded electrical consumption that can start fire hazards and breakdowns at your commercial building.

Fortunately, thermal imaging tests are incredibly helpful in identifying such risks earlier. They help electricians prevent other risks of melting cables, sparking, and arcing that can cause fire incidents.

Our team of licensed commercial electricians in San Diego can identify any hot components for the early identification of electrical risks so that we can prevent circuits from becoming unbalanced or overloaded. At White Horse Electric Inc., we are a group of high-reach electricians that can perform every electric task, from unexpected maintenance to complex installations, to ensure satisfactory performance for years. Contact us today!

Problems Factories Face Due to Uneven Power Distribution

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 15:12:10 GMT

A successful factory relies on its machines as well as its employees to ensure seamless production. The slightest problem in either can create a ripple effect that will cause multiple problems across the factory.

To better understand the importance of an adequate power supply, we've highlighted some common problems faced by factory employees that are linked to poor electricity distribution.

Sags

Sags happen when voltage decreases to less than nominal for a number of cycles. The nominal voltage is the ideal voltage for the equipment in the factory. So, when the voltage decreases for multiple cycles, it can cause sensitive equipment to short circuit and lose all data or hang, which halts progress.

Surges

A surge is the opposite of a sag. Instead of lower voltage than the nominal amount, the equipment is supplied with voltage that is too high. When high voltage is supplied for multiple cycles, components within the equipment can degrade. Additionally, the constant surge of voltage can damage the voltage regulators, making it hard to keep track of the power surge and sags.

Blackouts

Main failures are a widespread uneven power distribution related problem. Even a second-long break in the main power supply can cause all systems to shut down, which can ruin days or even months’ worth of work. Once power is restored, employees will have to restart and regulate all equipment to get back to work.

Spikes

Similar to power surges, a spike (or transient) is one of the most damaging after-effects of poor power distribution. Spikes occur when a high voltage of power is rapidly supplied to a piece of equipment. This usually lasts for a few seconds, but can disrupt equipment performance significantly. It could also cause computers to crash, which leads to a loss of data or system failure.

Hire An Electric Company For Even Power Distribution

A seamless power supply that distributes nominal voltage is essential for a factory. If you are looking for commercial electrical contractors in San Diego who could help with power distribution problems in your factory, contact us, at White Horse Electrical Inc .

Our licensed industrial electricians have years of experience and can provide you with the innovative solution you need to help make your factory run seamlessly.

The Impact Lighting Has on A Restaurant's Dining Experience

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 14:55:08 GMT

Are you an aspiring restauranteur? While working on your restaurant design, you must not consider the often-overlooked design element — lighting. Did you know that 91% of diners consider ambiance an essential factor in picking a restaurant? Make sure that they choose to eat at your restaurant by keeping these 3 tips in mind.

1. Pay Attention to Contrast, and Not Brightness

The trick to ideal restaurant lighting is maintaining a balance in light with the surfaces it reflects on. When our eyes are forced to adjust to dramatic lighting, our eyes have to move from one surface to another. It can result in exertion and headaches.

Restaurant lighting shouldn’t be more than thrice as bright as the surfaces that surround the customers. Many restaurants make the mistake of installing dim lights over the table. This reflects the light off the table and directly into the customer’s eyes.

Bright lights in a dark room create a very stark contrast of light and dark and make it uncomfortable for the guests to look around the room. This discomfort comes with an improper imbalance of contrast and the inability of our eyes to adjust quickly. If your diner’s experience this, they’re not going to dine in your restaurant again.

2. Choose LEDs Wisely

LED lighting has changed the face of affordable lighting. According to statistics , 60% of the world’s lighting will be LED by the end of 2020. Making a switch from incandescent and fluorescent lighting to LED is a smart choice if you want to save on your electricity bills.

3. Avoid Stray Lighting

There’s a range of unavoidable light sources that can put your time and energy that you’ve put into your restaurant’s lighting to waste. Light pollution sources like bright kitchen, reading lights, sunny days, and landscape lights can interfere in your restaurant’s lighting and adversely impact your guest’s experience.

Every time your guests look in different directions, they’ll be faced with varying intensities of light. It takes time for the eye to adjust to these rapid changes. This discomfort and undue strain on the eyes can make your valued customers leave your restaurant.

Keep Your Restaurant Lit!

Are you looking to get ideal restaurant lighting in San Diego? Contact White Horse Electric. Their expert commercial electrical contractors can install lights and lighting fixtures that are in line with your restaurant’s interior. They also offer residential and industrial lighting services.

Do You Need a Dedicated Electrical Circuit?

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 14:48:08 GMT

Do you have expensive electrical appliances in your home that you want to ensure work safely? Does your circuit breaker often trip if you run many appliances at the same time? It’s a sign that you need to install dedicated circuits for your appliances .

What is a Dedicated Circuit?

Your home’s electrical system contains an amalgam of circuits that are used to distribute electricity around. Circuit breakers are switches designed specifically to break the circuit if there’s a power overload or if there’s a lot of electricity drawn.

If there’s a circuit that solely supports a single appliance, it means that it’s a dedicated circuit with its own electrical box and a circuit breaker. It ensures that all appliances that demand high power get an ample amount of amperage so that they can safely operate without tripping.

While Home Appliances Need a Dedicated Circuit?

According to the National Electrical Code , all major appliances in the house should have dedicated circuits. They include dishwashers, refrigerators, microwave ovens, washers and dryers, heat pumps, furnaces, and AC system.

If you use the same outlets for small appliances and your circuit breaker frequently trips, its best that you install a dedicated circuit for them. Small appliances that usually draw a lot of electricity include electric heaters, hairdryers, window AC, toaster, and sump pumps.

How Can You Tell if an Appliance Has a Dedicated Circuit?

Pay attention to things that make your breakers trip.

You’ll see that you can operate your microwave oven and blender, but as soon as you turn on the toaster, your circuit breaker trips. It shows that non the three outlets for these appliances are working on a dedicated circuit. It the issue persists every time you turn on the appliances, you should consider installing a dedicated circuit.

Read the Electrical Box

If you had an experienced electrical contractor installing the wiring in your home, they must’ve labeled the circuits on the electrical box. Check your electrical box for labels, and you’ll find if there are any appliances in your home with a dedicated circuit.

White Horse Electric’s Expert Residential Services in San Diego, CA

Contact White Horse Electric for the best residential electrical services . Our residential electricians in San Diego can take care of your electrical appliances and help you avoid any unforeseen, unfortunate events because of fluctuating voltages or faulty wiring. Our licensed electrical contractors also manage industrial and commercial projects.

What’s the Right LED Upgrade?

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 13:05:15 GMT

Replacing an incandescent lighting system with LEDs is a great way to cut costs and improve the quality of lighting .

There are two ways that it can happen: by replacing everything with LEDs or retrofitting the luminaires with LED . You can choose between the two based on the application and budget. Here are 4 common scenarios.

1. Decorative Luminaires

Acorn or globe style pedestrian and street lighting is a common sight in historic communities and downtown areas. Places with these decorative lighting are usually reluctant to take down the historic fixtures and upgrading them with LEDs. It’s because these decorative luminaires hold cultural and historical value. If the fixtures are in good condition, it’s best to retrofit them.

2. Parking Lot Lighting

When the fixtures are more utilitarian and don’t hold historical or cultural significance, replacing the entire fixture is better. If the wall mounts or poles in ideal shape, they can stay as they are or can be replaced—it’s not an issue.

3. Recessed Wall and Step Lighting

Recessed wall or step lighting is usually mounted inside masonry or concrete. Replacing the entire fixture and installing a new backbox would destroy the concrete work and will have to be restored accordingly. The best way to go about it would be by installing an LED retrofit that can gel in with the existing backbox.

4. Linear Lighting

LEDs are an unrivaled champion when it comes to energy efficiency and light quality for linear lighting. You can upgrade your linear lighting in two ways: replace the entire fixture or replace the incandescent bulb with LEDs (tubular LEDs).

LEDs are a cost-effective way to illuminate the space. However, with this option, you’ll get less efficient and poor quality lighting. Moreover, if you have a dimming system installed in your home, it won’t work with LEDs. LEDs are also a fire hazard.

Therefore, it's best to install new lighting specifically made for LEDs. As they are manufactured keeping LEDs in mind, they’ll offer better energy saving, light quality, and thermal management.

White Horse Electric’s Expert Residential Services in San Diego, CA

Contact White Horse Electric for the best commercial electrical services . Our commercial electricians in San Diego can take care of your electrical appliances and help you avoid any unforeseen, unfortunate events because of fluctuating voltages or faulty wiring. Our licensed electrical contractors also manage industrial and residential projects.

Electrical Fires: How to Prevent Them?

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 13:01:34 GMT

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that every year approximately 5,300 fires are a result of electrical malfunction. This number is staggering, and we can drop it by learning different ways of prevention and keeping safe.

Step # 1: Install Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors are excellent preventative measures as they can go out and alert you before it’s too late. Statistics show that three out of five fire-related deaths are caused in homes and offices without smoke detectors.

Step # 2: Check Your Wiring

Did you know that electrical wiring can only last for around 30 years? If you know that your building is older than 30 years, it's wise to check its wiring. An indication of this is regularly tripping circuit breaker, a blown fuse, and the use of a lot of extension cords. If you're noticing these signs, it's time to call a professional and get your wiring fixed before it catches fire.

Step # 3: Arc Fault

One of the leading causes of house fires in the US is an arc fault . It takes place when two or more conductors discharge a high power, which results in excessive heat production leading to a fire. Arc faults are usually a result of loose connections in outlets. Therefore, you should get all your building's outlets inspected once a year. You can also install an ACFI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) as a preventative measure.

Other Preventative Measures

Here are 5 more preventative steps that you can take to ensure that your home or office safe from electrical fires.

Plug small or major appliances into the wall outlet instead of plugging them in an extension cord.

Replace any damaged, loose, or cracked electrical cords.

Ensure that you keep flammable materials far from the outlets so that they don't cause a fire.

Only use surge protectors and power strips if a recognized testing organization has approved them.

Replace outlets if they don't fit into the wall.

White Horse Electric’s Expert Residential Services in San Diego, CA

All About LED Retrofit Kits

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 12:53:31 GMT

To retrofit is to add something new—like a component, technology, or an accessory—to your electrical system that wasn’t initially a part of it. It’s synonymous with the word ‘conversion.’ When it comes to lighting, most of the retrofits are LED retrofits.

What is an LED Retrofit Kit?

In large lighting systems, like that of a commercial office, a single lighting fixture is repeatedly used throughout the grid. On industrial sites, high-pressure bulbs or halide fixtures are commonly used. Like all fixtures, they too have dimensions allowing regular bulbs to fit, heat to emanate, wiring to sit, and anchors to allow attaching.

Since LED bulbs are more integrated, thinner, lighter, and brighter than regular incandescent bulbs, they need a kit to accurately fit the old fixture. An LED retrofit kit enables an LED light to easily integrate into an old fixture.

Why Should You Use LED Retrofit Kits?

LEDs are rapidly replacing incandescent lights across a range of lighting applications. They save 75% more electricity and last 25% longer , ensuring energy-efficient and eco-friendly functioning. They’re versatile and can be used to light interiors, exteriors, and have a range of mechanical applications as well.

Types of LED Fixtures

LED retrofit fixtures include the hardware casing and the lamp. They’re composed of three parts:

The casing (commonly known as housing)

The bulb (also called a Luminaire or the lamp)

The drive

Unlike regular fixtures, LED fixtures are integrated. It means that they come as a single piece with the casing, bulb, and driver combined. It’s possible because the LED is lightweight, small, and reduce heat. The only issue with integrated fixtures is that you can’t change the bulb without replacing the entire LED fixture. But the upside to this is the fact that LEDs last for years.

When you want to replace a regular lighting fixture with a retrofit kit, you’ll have to replace all of the components of the fixture. For a free range of LED fixture options, you’ll have to replace the entire fixture. While there are some retrofit options where you don’t need to replace the entire fixture, not all fixtures can be retrofit.

Styles of LED Retrofit Kits

High Bay

Troffer

LED UFO

Panel

Low Bay

Canopy

Linear

Wall Pack

White Horse Electric’s Expert Residential Services in San Diego, CA

Electrical Panel Upgrade: A Guide

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 12:36:49 GMT

The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors recommends that you regularly check your electrical panel, even if it doesn’t need any fixes. It’s because the electrical panels can get signs of scorching or rust, which is evidence of underlying damage.

Therefore, it’s crucial that you routinely maintain your electrical panel. But in some conditions, it becomes necessary for you to upgrade your panel. Here’s a guide for that.

Why Do I Need an Upgrade?

You must upgrade your electrical panel after every 25 years. So, if your home is this old, you’ll have to upgrade the panel. There’s also a range of other signs that you must look for that’ll tell you when an existing electrical panel is getting outdated.

Faulty Wiring

When it comes to wiring, your safety should be of utmost importance. Faulty wiring is a leading cause of electrical fires in the US . Usually, it’s the older wiring that’s likely to develop faults, but a regular inspection can identify the issue at an early stage.

Getting New Appliances

If your electrical panel can’t handle modern and heavy electrical appliances, it’s a sign that you need a panel upgrade. For instance, if you decide you install a hot tub or an air conditioner at your home and your electrical panel can’t manage the capacity, its circuit breakers will keep on tripping.

Use of Extension Cords

Many electrical panels aren’t made for modern-day electricity use. With the increased use of gadgets and other electrical appliances filling our homes, there’s more power demand as there was a decade ago. Evidence of it can be seen through the lack of wall sockets.

If you see that you’re excessively using extension cords and power strips in your home, it’s a sign that you’re using more power than you’re supposed to, and your electrical panel needs an upgrade.

How Much Will It Cost?

The best time to get a panel upgrade is when you’re remodeling the house. It’s when you’ll be hiring a residential electrical contractor, so you can ask them to upgrade your panel as well. It would cost you between $600 to $2,000.

White Horse Electric’s Expert Residential Services in San Diego, CA

How to Ensure that Your Electrical Appliances Last Longer?

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 12:18:59 GMT

People spend a lot of money on purchasing new electrical appliances because their old ones die. But with regular cleaning, maintenance, and intelligent use, you can ensure the longevity of your appliance’s functionality.

Whether you’ve just purchased a new dishwasher or worrying about your washing machine, here are a few tips that’ll ensure that your appliances last long.

Washing Machines

Ill-maintained washing machines can break your bank. That’s because there’s a lot of water churning and swishing around in them. To ensure that a washing machine lasts long:

Change the water hose (where the water enters the machine) every four years. The older those pipes get, the more worn out they’ll become. As a result, they can burst and cause your house to flood, resulting in thousands of dollars of damages.

Go through the pockets of clothing before putting them into the machine to ensure that there aren’t any loose items like pens, coins, gum, etc., as it can shorten your drum’s life. While they don’t break the drum, with time, they increase the wear and tear on your clothes.

Don’t overload the machine.

Refrigerato rs

Fridge maintenance can save your food from spoiling and helps your appliance last longer. Here are some easy ways to do that:

Clean the condenser coils with a vacuum cleaner. To do that, follow the instructions in the user manual.

Clean the refrigerator’s door seal every week. Spills from milk, ice cream, jam, sauces, etc., make a mess, and their residue can impact how well the door seals.

Don’t allow a buildup of ice that’s more than a quarter of an inch thick. New models of refrigerators can defrost defrost themselves, but if you have an old model, you’ll have to do it yourself .

Follow the instructions in the user manual on how to clean drip openings, pans, and replace filters.

Dishwashers

Ensure that you regularly clean your dishwasher around the seal so that the water stays inside the appliance and doesn’t spill out while working. You should clean the spray arm of your dishwasher because hard water scale and food bits can build up inside it. The best signal to do is observing that your dishwasher is not cleaning the dishes properly.

General Instructions

For all other appliances in your home, we recommend that you read the instruction manuals for safety and maintenance guidelines.

If the appliances (toaster, TV, hairdryer) aren’t in use, don’t keep them plugged in. It's best to unplug them and store them safe from dust and water.

Don’t plug too many appliances in a single extension cord as it can overload the circuit and damage the appliance while also putting you at risk of an electrical fire.

White Horse Electric’s Expert Residential Services In San Diego, CA

Avoid An Overloaded Electrical System This Christmas- Infographic

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 12:04:19 GMT

How To Improve Energy Efficiency In Your Commercial Building

Sat, 28 Nov 2020 10:55:22 GMT

One of the most daunting tasks of running a business is understanding where and how to allocate tasks. It's a delicate balance of finding the right cost-saving tactics, which will not hinder any business practices.

One way to cut down on operation costs is to be more mindful of energy consumption. Without knowing it, workplaces are burning through an unnecessary amount of electricity. Here are some ways you can make your workplace more energy-efficient and sustainable.

Solar Panels

There are currently 1.47 million solar panels in use in both residential and commercial properties throughout the U.S. The surge in solar panels as the main energy source is incredibly helpful in the long term, especially in lowering costs.

While business owners may have to pay a larger price upfront for installation, solar panels help lower utility bill costs and use less energy. Once installed correctly, solar panels also have incredibly low maintenance costs and can be used for heat and electricity!

Light Sensors

An illuminated workspace is essential to boost employee productivity . However, what do you do when the constantly bright rooms are usually left unoccupied and wasting energy?

While you should prioritize installing lights in all of your office spaces, it's also important to keep track of turning lights off when not in use. These small practices can save you hundreds of dollars at the end of the month. While it’s impossible to reprimand every employee who forgets to switch the light off, you can place these expectations on light sensors!

Motion light sensors are triggered when they detect motion in the room and automatically turn the lights on. They can also sense when there is no one in the room and would keep the lights off to preserve electricity.

Upgrade Technology

Take a look at the equipment being used in your office. How old is it? If the answer is over 15 years, then you most likely would benefit from a replacement.

There have been multiple technological advancements in the past decades which have changed the efficiency and power consumption in equipment. Your old electrical equipment might end up taking more energy than needed and cause hefty bills at the end of the month. Updating your workplace's current technology will help you save energy and increase productivity and speed.

If you would like to install solar panels or simply get guidance from licensed commercial technicians on your new and improved installments, you can always reach out to White Horse Electric Inc. We will help inspect which equipment is causing the most energy waste and replace it for you accordingly. Contact us today to get in touch with our team of electrical contractors in San Diego .