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What are the Signs My Home Needs Electrical Services?

A home often shows various signs indicating the need for electrical services, which should never be ignored to ensure safety and efficiency. Frequent circuit breaker trips or blown fuses suggest an overloaded or faulty electrical system. Flickering or dimming lights, especially when using multiple appliances, can indicate wiring issues. Outlets or switches that are warm to the touch, emit burning smells, or produce buzzing or crackling sounds are serious red flags for potential fire hazards. 

Discolored or scorched outlets, outdated or damaged wiring, and the presence of sparking when plugging in devices also necessitate immediate attention from a licensed electrician. Additionally, experiencing shocks when touching appliances or noticing unusually high electricity bills could signify underlying electrical problems that require professional inspection and repair.

Can I Perform My Own Electrical Services?

Performing your own electrical services can be risky and is generally not recommended unless you have proper training and knowledge. While homeowners may handle minor tasks like replacing light bulbs, installing simple fixtures, or resetting circuit breakers, more complex tasks should be left to licensed electricians. 

Major electrical work, such as rewiring, installing new circuits, upgrading electrical panels, or fixing faulty wiring, requires a thorough understanding of electrical systems, adherence to local codes, and proper safety precautions. Attempting these tasks without the necessary expertise can lead to serious hazards, including electrical shocks, fires, and code violations, which can have significant safety and financial implications. Therefore, for any substantial electrical work, it is best to hire a professional to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.

How Often Should I Have My Electrical System Inspected?

It is generally recommended to have your electrical system inspected every 3 to 5 years as a part of your electrical services. However, the frequency can depend on several factors, including the age of your home, the condition of the electrical system, and whether you have experienced any electrical issues. Homes with older wiring or frequent electrical problems may require more frequent inspections. Additionally, it is advisable to schedule an inspection if you have recently purchased a home, after major renovations or additions, or if you notice signs of potential electrical issues such as flickering lights, frequent circuit breaker trips, or burning smells. Regular inspections help ensure the safety and efficiency of your electrical system, identify potential hazards, and ensure compliance with current electrical codes.

How are the Costs of Typical Electrical Services?

The costs of home electrical services can vary significantly based on the nature and complexity of the work, the materials needed, the electrician’s expertise, and the geographic location. Typically, electricians charge a service call fee of $50 to $100 for an initial visit. Hourly rates range from $50 to $150, depending on experience and region. Simple tasks like installing a new outlet or light fixture can cost between $100 to $250 and $150 to $500, respectively. 

More extensive work, such as upgrading an electrical panel, can range from $1,000 to $3,000, while rewiring an entire home may cost between $2,000 to $10,000 or more. Installing specialized outlets like GFCIs typically costs $100 to $200 per unit. Electrical inspections usually range from $100 to $200, and smart home system installations can vary widely, from $500 to $2,500 or more. To ensure quality and manage expenses, it is always ideal to reach out to an experienced electrician to learn more about the electrical services they can provide and to get a good idea of their typical rates. They will often be able to provide you with a free quote of their services before they begin any work in your home. 

Can I Get Electrical Services in an Emergency?

Yes, you can get electrical services in an emergency. Many electrical service providers offer 24/7 emergency services to address urgent issues that pose immediate safety risks or significant inconvenience. These emergency services cover situations such as power outages, electrical fires, sparking or smoking outlets, electrical shocks, and malfunctioning circuit breakers. Emergency electricians are trained to quickly diagnose and resolve critical problems, ensuring your home is safe and minimizing potential damage.

Regardless of the problems you are dealing with, the team at Cajun Comfort can be there to provide electrical services in Norco and New Orleans, LA. Reach out at 985-764-8191 today if you would like to learn more about our services.

What are metal fabrication services?

A simplified definition of metal fabrication services is the creation of a product or structure by bending or cutting, and then assembling metal material. It is considered a value-added process as it involves putting raw metal materials together to create something. Metal fabrication services play a critical role that many manufacturing businesses rely on.

Are there different types of metal fabrication services? 

Yes, there are 3 different types of metal fabrication services. Those three different types have different functions in the process of fabrication: 

• Industrial Metal Fabrication Services: These metal fabrication services are the creation of parts of equipment and tools that are used in the creation of consumer goods in other industries. One instance of industrial metal fabrication is the manufacturing of steel bandsaws that, in turn, are used in other industries.
• Structural Metal Fabrication Services: These metal fabrication services are the creation of metal structures,  like in the structural steel industries where building steel frames. 
• Commercial Metal Fabrication Services: These metal fabrication services are the process of fabricating metals to create machinery and tools that are used in the consumer goods industries, like vehicles. 

What are six examples of metal fabrication services?

Metal fabrication services are distinct from other types of manufacturing processes. Metal fabrication, for example, either produces end products or can produce parts that are used to complete products. The other type of manufacturing is the process of assembling ready-made components or parts. Some common methods of metal fabrication services include: 

• Cutting/Notching

A common technique in metal workpiece fabrication is cutting metal material into smaller sections, often the first step in a larger fabrication process. Before the modern way of cutting metal, it was done by hand sawing. Today, state-of-the-art machinery is used, including computer numerical cutters and power tools with methods of laser cutting, plasma arc cutting, power scissor cutting, and waterjet cutting.

• Folding/Forming

The fabrication process of forming is bending or distorting metal in order to produce different components and parts. This includes forming sheets and strips of metal by rolling them using CNC press braking of up to 400 tons of pressure without losing their mass. 

• Punching

One of the most common metal fabrication services includes creating or punching holes with the use of mechanical devices or machines in different metals with a two-fold purpose. The punch press houses turrets that punch metal into or through a die to create uniquely designed holes. The finished product of uniquely designed holes for design or for fastening purposes. 

• Shearing

The shearing process in metal fabrication services is used to remove or trim unwanted material by mounting two blades above and under the metal that procures a single long and straight cut, generally in smaller lengths of different shapes. 

• Stamping

This is an example of metal fabrication services that are similar to the above-described punching. The difference is this creates an indentation instead of a hole.  It is done with either hydraulic or mechanical means to metal sheets that measure up to 1/4 inch thickness and are formed into exact shapes and sizes. 

• Welding

Welding is considered an art in the arena of metal fabrication services. This process joins two or more metal pieces together by combining heat and pressure into various shapes or sizes. 

Are there different machinery and technologies used in metal fabrication services? 

Metal fabrication services aren’t anything new, the industry has been around since ancient times. What is new is how it is done. The days of a blacksmith using a hammer are done today by complex machinery, technologies, and scientific achievements. The following are some of the machinery and technologies that are used: 

• Lathe
• Tube and Pipe Benders
• Drilling Machines
• Milling Machines
• Hobbing Machines
• CNC Technology
• Grinders
• Honing Machines

In Closing

There are a variety of metals that are used in metal fabrication services, based on the intended end purpose, and results desired which include aluminum, magnesium, sheet metal, steel, and welding wire. There are three steps involved metal fabrication process, with each step having multiple components. The general steps are: 

Step 1. The designing is done either by computer-aided design software or on rare occasions on paper. 

Step 2. The fabricating is done by working with the raw materials with the different processes we mentioned above.  

Step 3. The finishing and assembling of the small parts from the step 2 process, and then adding any finishing touches needed. 

The next time you take your children the park, or you use a grocery cart, and even get in your car to go to the park or store, know that metal fabrication services were a part of it all. We provide premier metal fabrication services in Norco and New Orleans, LA. Call today at 985-764-8191 to schedule an appointment!

Local HVAC Technicians in Norco and New Orleans, LA

Consulting with a local HVAC professional who can assess your home’s specific needs and recommend the most suitable system for you is essential. If you need help choosing the right HVAC system in Norco and New Orleans, LA, give Cajun Comfort a call at 985-764-8191. We use industry-leading equipment and can help you make a choice that fits your budget and lifestyle. Connect with us online or by calling us at 985-764-8191. By carefully considering these factors, you can choose an HVAC system that meets your comfort requirements, energy efficiency goals, and budget constraints.

What is considered an emergency ac repair service?

You may be right if you think your non-functional AC isn’t an emergency. But some air conditioner issues do quality as an emergency ac repair service call. Three of the most common ones are: 

• Extremely Hot Day: We depend on our air conditioning services to stay comfortable and relaxed during Georgia’s hot summer days and nights. So, when temperatures rise and the air conditioning unit blows warm air or does not blow at all, that constitutes an emergency AC repair service. This is especially true when the occupants are at high risk, such as the elderly, young children, and anyone with a compromised immune system.

• Safety Issues: A non-working or malfunctioning air conditioning system is always inconvenient and can be expensive to repair. But it can also be a matter of safety. When you notice sparks or smoke coming from the air conditioning system, turn it off and call for an emergency AC repair service immediately! 

What isn’t an emergency AC repair service? That includes leaking refrigerant, a strong gas odor, a breaker that constantly trips, or a dim light when the air conditioning system turns on. A professional AC repair tech must check these things, but it doesn’t require an emergency AC repair service call. 

• Excessive Noises: An air conditioning system will make some noise as it runs, and the older it gets, the more noise it will make. But, if it starts making sounds when it hasn’t, like a screeching or shrieking noise, the fan belt is loose or coming off, or the compressor, the fan, or the motor could be malfunctioning. Turn the unit off and call for an emergency AC repair service. 

Why would your air conditioning not blow cold air?

There can be many reasons, but you can do some things yourself before you call for an emergency AC repair service. These things include: 

• Change or clean the air filter
• Clean any debris and dirt from the outside unit
• Check for any ice buildup inside the system. If there is ice, turn the system off for one hour to allow it to melt. 
• Reset the air conditioner system. 

Suppose you’ve done all this and turned the unit back on. If it still isn’t blowing cool air, call for emergency AC repair service if you meet the other suggested criteria.

How do you reset an air conditioning system? 

There are four simple steps to take to reset an air conditioning system:

• Turn the power off to the air conditioner, starting with the thermostat and then the circuit breaker.
• Central air conditioning systems have a reset button. 
• Once you have located the reset button, press and hold it for 5 seconds and release.
• Turn the circuit breaker on and then the thermostat. 
• Turn the unit on “auto” and “cool.”

If your home doesn’t cool down to the thermostat setting, it’s time to call for an emergency AC repair service. 

How do you stay cool when the air conditioning is broken?

After you have turned the system off, open all the windows in the house and close any curtains where the sun is coming through. Turn on all ceiling fans so they are turning counterclockwise. This will create a downdraft and a cool breeze. Place stand fans in front of windows and place a bowl or pan of ice in front of them. This way, the wind coming from the fan blowing over ice is cool. 

Do not cook indoors if possible; now is the time to grill! If you have to cook indoors, use the microwave. Dress in light-colored, lightweight clothing. 

Prevention Is The Saver! 

Practice and follow through with all maintenance steps recommended by the service technician and the manufacturer. This includes changing or cleaning the air filter every 30 days, checking and cleaning the drain line and drain pan every 30 days, and keeping the outside component clear of debris, dirt, and grass. 

It is also recommended that you take a service contract with the company that installs and services your unit. This will allow the technician to find any minor issues and fix them before they become more significant problems and result in an emergency AC repair service call. 

If you need emergency AC repair service in Norco and New Orleans, LA, our team can help. Call us at 985-764-8191 to schedule your service today.

What are metal fabrication services?

A simplified definition of metal fabrication services involves creating a product or structure by bending, cutting, and assembling metal material. This process is value-added because it combines raw metal materials to create something. Metal fabrication services play a critical role that many manufacturing businesses rely on.

Are there different types of metal fabrication services? 

Yes, there are three different types of metal fabrication services. Those three different types have distinct functions in the process of fabrication: 

• Industrial Metal Fabrication Services: These metal fabrication services create parts of equipment and tools used in crafting consumer goods in other industries. One instance of industrial metal fabrication is the manufacturing of steel bandsaws, which are, in turn, used in different industries.
• Structural Metal Fabrication Services: These metal fabrication services create metal structures, like in the structural steel industries where steel frames are built. 
• Commercial Metal Fabrication Services: These metal fabrication services involve fabricating metals to create machinery and tools used in the consumer goods industries, such as vehicles. 

What are six examples of metal fabrication services?

Metal fabrication services are distinct from other types of manufacturing processes. Metal fabrication, for example, either produces end products or parts used to complete products. The different types of manufacturing are assembling ready-made components or parts. Some standard methods of metal fabrication services include: 

• Cutting/Notching: A common technique in metal workpiece fabrication is cutting metal material into smaller sections, often the first step in a more extensive fabrication process. Before the modern way of cutting metal, it was done by hand sawing. Today, state-of-the-art machinery is used, including computer numerical cutters and power tools with laser cutting, plasma arc cutting, power scissor cutting, and waterjet cutting.
• Folding/Forming: Fabrication involves bending or distorting metal to produce different components and parts. This includes forming sheets and strips of metal by rolling them using CNC press braking of up to 400 tons of pressure without losing their mass. 
• Punching: One of the most common metal fabrication services includes creating or punching holes using mechanical devices or machines in different metals for two purposes. The punch press houses turrets that punch metal into or through a die to create uniquely designed holes—the finished product of uniquely designed holes for design or fastening purposes. 
• Shearing: The shearing process in metal fabrication services removes or trims unwanted material by mounting two blades above and under the metal that procures a single long and straight cut, generally in smaller lengths of different shapes. 
• Stamping: This is an example of a metal fabrication service similar to punching described above. The difference is that stamping creates an indentation instead of a hole. It is done through either hydraulic or mechanical means on metal sheets measuring up to 1/4 inch thick and formed into exact shapes and sizes. 
• Welding: Welding is considered an art in metal fabrication services. This process combines two or more metal pieces by combining heat and pressure into various shapes or sizes. 

Are there different machinery and technologies used in metal fabrication services? 

Metal fabrication services are nothing new; the industry has existed since ancient times. What is new is how it is done. The days of a blacksmith using a hammer are done today using complex machinery, technologies, and scientific achievements. The following are some of the machinery and technologies that are used: 

• Lathe
• Tube and Pipe Benders
• Drilling Machines
• Milling Machines
• Hobbing Machines
• CNC Technology
• Grinders
• Honing Machines

In Closing

Various metals are used in metal fabrication services based on the intended end purpose and desired results, including aluminum, magnesium, sheet metal, steel, and welding wire. Three steps are involved in the metal fabrication process, each with multiple components. The general steps are: 

• Step 1. The design is done either by computer-aided design software or, on rare occasions, on paper. 
• Step 2. Fabrication is done by working with the raw materials using the abovementioned processes. 
• Step 3. Finish and assemble the small parts from step 2 and add any needed finishing touches. 

The next time you take your children to the park, use a grocery cart or even get in your car to go to the park or store, know that metal fabrication services were involved. And if you’re interested in metal fabrication services in Norco and New Orleans, LA, the team at Cajun Comfort  is available to help you learn more. Call us at 985-764-8191 today.

How are LED Christmas lights wired up?

LED holiday lighting is more complicated than traditional incandescent lighting. A short version of how they are wired starts with a diode with two semiconductor materials side by side. One material has a positive charge and one has a negative charge. 

When current is applied to the Christmas lighting system, the electrons on the negative side move to the positive side. Particles on the positive side are referred to as “electron holes” and when they collide with an electron, it releases a bit of energy is released, becoming a photon. And then you see the bright colors of Christmas lights! 

What are the differences between the incandescent lighting and LED Christmas lights?

Still today, we have two choices in Christmas lighting, the standard incandescent string lights, and the newer LED lights. There are pros and cons to both, read on to find out what those are: 

• Energy-Efficiency: The newer LED bulbs use less energy, so where energy efficiency is a concern, these are what you need for next year’s holiday lighting installation project. Little heat is created by LED lights because are made with light-emitting diodes versus filaments of incandescent lighting. In time, the incandescent lighting will be gone, much like R44 freon. 
• Durability: When it comes to which type of lighting will last from one-holiday lighting installation to the next, LED lighting is the one to choose. The old-school type of lighting lasts maybe 1,00 hours versus the 50,000 hours you’ll get from your LED lighting. 
• Installation: The same cord is used on both types of light, so your holiday lighting installation will be similar to LED lighting. Some LED lights come on a copper strand which can make your holiday lighting installation a little challenging because it will easily tangle. Another note, the strand is shorter on LED lighting, which may require a longer extension cord. 
• Costs: When it comes to dollar-for-dollar value, you will get less number of lights with LED compared to incandescent lights, meaning they’ll cost you more at the start, but since they don’t burn as hot and take less electricity, you’ll re-coop that money. 

What is the overall lifespan of LED lighting?

There is a good chance you have been getting maybe years of holiday lighting installation from your current incandescent lighting. LED lighting gets up to 100,000 hours before you have to replace them. In general, by burning them 10 hours a day, you will get approximately 14 years of holiday lighting installation projects! 

Will holiday lighting installation with LED lights cost more than incandescent? 

Many homeowners are going with professional holiday lighting installation today. Maybe because they do not have time or they’re trying to be the next “McCallister” from the movie “Home Alone”. In either case, the cost of using LED lights will cost more than incandescent lighting. And of course, the more extravagant your lighting plans, the more expensive, no matter which type of lighting you use. Some examples of estimated costs in the Norco, Louisiana area: 

• Incandescent holiday lighting installation: This type of lighting can cost up to $30 per strand. In addition, the longer they are on, the more they are costing you on your electric usage. 
• LED holiday lighting installation: This type of lighting can cost up to $20 per strand. These cost more upfront, but at the end of the month, your electric bill will be less than if you had used incandescent lighting.
• Dome holiday lighting installation: These are highly popular for exterior use because of the soft light they emit. They can cost you up to $15 per strand. 

Who do you call for holiday lighting installation? 

In the years past, most homeowners did their holiday lighting installation themselves, because that is just the way it was done. The holidays couldn’t start until Dad climbed the ladder, stretching out across the roof line to get the lights evenly distributed, and then went further up the roof to place the inflatable Santa, Rudolf, and their sleigh next to the chimney.

Today, with medical insurance rates increasing as well as healthcare in general, more homeowners are choosing to hire a professional for holiday lighting installation. In this area of Norco, like other cities in America, you’ll find signs on corners advertising an individual or a company that provides holiday lighting installation services.  Many are roofers or firefighters who are used to climbing on rooftops. 

Choose an individual or company that offers a guarantee and continuous service. This means they will return and replace any bulbs that burn out and rehang anything that falls after a hard rain or wind. 

In the years past, most homeowners did their holiday lighting installation themselves, because that is just the way it was done. The holidays couldn’t start until Dad climbed the ladder, stretching out across the roof line to get the lights evenly distributed, and then went further up the roof to place the inflatable Santa, Rudolf, and their sleigh next to the chimney. If you would like to set up your personalized holiday lighting installation in Norco and New Orleans, LA, please give us a call at 985-764-8191 to get started today!

What are some indications that your air conditioning isn’t working right? 

During the summertime, we all have things we want to do, places to go, and things to see. So, spending money on replacing an air conditioning system isn’t something we want to do, but we don’t want to wake up in the middle of the night soaked in sweat either. If you’re experiencing any of these 5 things, it is time to have professional air conditioning services come to inspect your system: 

• Airflow that is warm or weak
• Banging, clanging, squealing, and/or whistling sounds
• Unpleasant and unusual Odors
• Moisture or water puddles around the air conditioning equipment
• Higher than normal electricity bills

Some of these problems aren’t a serious matter like the thermostat going out. But most of these can be an indication of a serious problem that should be inspected by a professional company offering air conditioning services. 

Even if it ends up being the thermostat, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that a professional service inspected it and fixed the problem.

What are the pros of having a maintenance contract on an air conditioning system? 

When you’re buying your air conditioning system, it may seem like an upsell attempt when they ask you if you’d like to take a maintenance contract. And yes, for the professional air conditioning services company, it is an upsell, but for you, it could save you money later down the road. 

Still not sure about taking this contract? Take a look at these benefits: 

• Early Detection

Just like having your roof inspected every year to find possible issues, a maintenance contract with a professional air conditioning services company will find if any components are wearing out as well as other mechanical issues that could be causing you problems and unnecessary expenses soon. 

• Energy Efficiency Improved

A maintenance contract for air conditioning services with a consistent schedule of tune-ups will help keep the air conditioner and furnace running more efficiently, which will ease your utility bills. The money you’ll save on those energy bills will help pay for the maintenance contract.

• Priority Service Calls

When you have a maintenance contract with a professional air conditioning services company, your phone calls for service will be taken as a priority. Air conditioning services are typically 24/7/365 for maintenance contract customers, with no service call, and any parts that are needed are discounted. 

• Repair Discounts

What repairs aren’t covered under the maintenance contract are discounted as well as the parts. It is recommended to review the contract and see what is covered so that you know what to expect, or not expect when you make that phone call for air conditioning services. 

• Maintain Equipment Warranty

When your air conditioner suffers a major failure of any component, the air conditioning services company that holds your maintenance contract will be responsible for any warranty repair or replacement needed because it is typically stipulated the homeowner must have the annual maintenance tune-up performed. If they didn’t catch any issues that have left you without air conditioning, it is on them to repair or replace them as needed.

How much does an air conditioning services maintenance contract cost?

The cost of this service will depend on the brand and model of the air conditioning system. Air conditioning systems come in a variety of BTUs and other factors that will dictate the cost, as well, every air conditioning services company has its rates. Shop around, get quotes on three or four, and compare the details before signing any contract. 

How often should air conditioning units be serviced?

Most companies that provide air conditioning services recommend annual inspections and tune-ups during the spring. During the spring, the weather is at its best, not too cold, not too hot, and most companies offering air condition services aren’t booked up with urgent calls. 

What do air conditioning services tune-ups include?

The air conditioning services technician assigned to your job will do an overall inspection that includes: 

• Looking for loose electrical connections.
• Checking the refrigerant levels.
• Check the condensate drain line and pan.
• Lubricating all moving parts.
• Clean the interior areas like the furnace burners and heat exchangers.
• Clean the condenser and evaporator coils. 

Keeping It Cool 

The key to having professional air conditioning services is to keep your home cool and your family comfortable, as well as safe. A malfunctioning air conditioning system can be dangerous if you keep using it, and could even catch on fire in the worst-case scenario. If you suspect your air conditioning isn’t working as it should be, contact us for air conditioning services in Norco and New Orleans, LA. Call 985-764-8191 today.

What is the most common problem with heating systems? 

Heating repair technicians find the following to be the most common cause of heating problems: 

• Maintenance:  No matter how your heating system is powered, electric or gas, routine maintenance is a must to give your heater the longest lifespan. That maintenance is easy: Simply change or clean the air filter every 30 days and check the drain pan if it needs cleaning. 
• Ignition or Pilot Light: A heating system will either have an ignition or pilot light and most heating repair service calls will find that the ignitor has gone out or the pilot light isn’t getting gas. 
• Airflow and Circulation: The airflow and circulation can be compromised by bearings, belts, or fan motors that are aged or failing. Air ducts that are torn or disconnected can keep the air from circulating and flowing throughout your home. 
• The Thermostat: Many heating repair service calls find that even a digital, programmable thermostat is causing problems with the heating system. As a homeowner, you can check the batteries and while replacing the batteries, use a hairdryer on cool setting or canned air and blow out the inside of the thermostat. 
• Mildew and Mold:  Heating repair technicians find that complaints of unpleasant odors are caused by a buildup of mildew or mold. This happens when there is poor insulation or inadequate attic ventilation. 

All of these issues that have resulted in heating repair service calls can cause an increase in energy bills. They each can impact the heating system’s operation by making it work harder. In the long run, without proper, routine heating repair and inspections, it can shorten the lifespan of the heating system.

What are some indicators that heating repairs are needed?

In addition to an increase in your energy bills, if you’re noticing any of the following, it is time to call a professional heating repair service: 

• Weird Noises and Sounds: 

The following noises and sounds could be happening for many reasons and could indicate a minor issue or a big problem.  Things like a deteriorating belt or loose bearing need professional heating repair service, or a rattling sound, which is usually from a loose or missing screw.

• Banging
• Rattling
• Rumbling
• Squeaking
• Thumping
• Whistling

• Excessive Dust: 

If you’ve noticed your home has become dusty more often or heavier it could be a problem with the air ducts or a problem with the blower motor. This happens when dust has accumulated in the air ducts or on the grates and vents. You need to schedule a professional heating repair service soon to get the problem fixed before it causes the heating system to crash. 

• Beeping Carbon Monoxide Detector: 

The carbon monoxide detector is as important to your home as the smoke detector. If it is beeping, you need to call for a professional heating repair system now. This can be caused by a cracked heat exchanger inside the furnace releasing the colorless, odorless gas called carbon monoxide. This is an extremely dangerous situation and should be corrected immediately. 

• Foul Odors: 

You should not smell anything when your heating system is running. If you smell any distinct, strange odor, it can be something malfunctioning and should be checked by a professional heating repair service company. 

How much does it cost to fix a heating problem?

The cost of heating repairs can depend on the year, make, and model of the heating system as well as the problem and the power source. Each heating repair company has its rates, some are by the hour and some may charge by the job. An electric heating repair can cost around $300 to $500 and a gas heater repair cost can start around $400 and go upward to $1,500 or more. 

How often do heating units need to be replaced?

A quality heating unit that has been professionally installed and well-maintained can last up to 30 years. The maintenance includes changing or cleaning the filter every 30 days and having it professionally inspected, cleaned, and tuned by a heating repair service company once a year.

At The End of the Day

It’s all about taking care of your heating system. You’ll need less heating repair services by keeping your maintenance up as we’ve discussed. And taking a maintenance contract out with the company that installed the system is important. They’ll be familiar with the system and will keep common parts on hand should it need heating repairs. Call us now at 985-764-8191 to get started on your heating repair in Norco and New Orleans, LA today!

How is it different? 

The residential electrical service we’ll be talking about is the wiring in your New Orleans, Louisiana home. It will include the many components within the home that require electricity, which only works when the power company has your electrical service turned on. 

What are the three wires coming from the poles into the house?

The three wires that run between the poles outside the home and into the home work together to provide the residential electric service needed. Those wires are; 

• Hot
• Neutral
• Ground

What is included in a residential electrical system?

A residential electrical system includes the power lines coming into the home from poles outside, typically along the streets and alleyways. Other components of a residential electric system that could be subject to needing residential electric service include: 

• Electric meter
• Service panel
• Subpanels
• Household wiring
• Electrical boxes
• Electrical outlets
• Electrical switches

And connected or plugged into those components are the appliances and lights that you use every day. But beyond the home are components that get the electrical power to your home and that the power company is responsible for: 

• Electric generation
• High voltage transmission grid
• A distribution system

What is the common electrical service to a residence?

Many decades ago, 100-amp was the most power for any residential electric service. Today though, the most common residential electric service is single phase 3-wiring that supplies 200-amp service. Why the increase in amps? Because of the many amenities we have in our homes today like refrigerators, televisions, air conditioning and heating system, lights, and more. 

A 200-amp is enough electrical power to provide residential electric service to the average family home. For homes where the heating system requires more power, a 300 amp may be used instead, or even larger like commercial properties require. 

What are “amps” in regard to residential electric service?

“Amp” is the abbreviated word for “ampere”, the standard unit of measurement for electricity. One ‘amp’ is one unit of constant electrical current and “amperage” is the strength of a single unit.   

How do I know if I have 100 or 200-amp service?

A home that is up to code should have a label inside the electrical panel that indicates the amperage rating. It will be on a label that is affixed inside the door of the panel, usually by the manufacturer or a professional residential electric service technician. 

The total amperage is printed on that label and this panel is referred to as a circuit breaker box (older homes will be referred to as a fuse box). This box controls all the circuits and up-to-code boxes have amps measuring 100, 150, or 200 amps. A total of all the amperages will tell you how much power you have coming into your home. 

How many things can you run on a 200 amp service?

A 200 amp panel shouldn’t be maxed out over 160 amps, or 32,000 watts. This cap on electrical power should prevent any circuit breakers (or fuses) from ‘blowing’. A home that is experiencing routine circuit breakers flipping off should be inspected by a professional residential electric service technician. It is possible the existing amperages are outdated, or the breakers may be old and should be replaced. 

Why upgrade from 100 to 200 amp service?

To keep from throwing breakers! The more electric power required in a home, the more amperage is needed and the difference between a 100-amp panel and a 200-amp panel is the more space available for more breakers and circuits. 

What are the most breakers you can put in a 200 amp panel?

Most 200 AMP main electrical panels can hold up to 40 circuit breakers. If your home is exceeding the limit of those circuit breakers, you need to call a professional residential electric service technician to install an additional electric panel downstream. However, for most homes, 40 circuit breakers are sufficient. 

In Closing: Saving Money – Is It Worthwhile? 

Can you upgrade to a 200 amp service yourself? Doing the work, yes, a handy DIY homeowner could do their own residential electric service and install the upgrade. However, it isn’t recommended simply for the safety factor. If you miss one step in the process, the entire electrical wiring in the home can be burnt and need replacing. 

By hiring a professional electrician that provides residential electric service, they are experienced, equipped, and insured. The work will be guaranteed, and if you live in the city or any area with building codes, they will be knowledgeable of those building codes, keeping your home “legal”. 

To schedule your electrical service in Norco and New Orleans, LA, please reach out to us at 985-764-8191 today!

When do you need professional residential electrical services? 

Unfortunately, there are some things that the everyday homeowner can’t do, and it is nice to have a company on your speed dial that does offer residential electrical services. This can be adding another breaker to the circuit breaker box, replacing an existing breaker (they do wear out after a while), or installing appliances, like a new electric stove or water heater, especially when upgrading to a tankless water heater. 

And of course, hiring a residential electrical service to install new lighting fixtures is a common service call. Another service offered by a residential electrical service company is discussing energy-saving solutions to help homeowners reduce their energy costs. They can also inspect your home if you’re having random electrical problems and make recommendations of what needs to be done. 

When you search for a company that provides residential electrical services, there are some questions you need to ask to be certain you’re signing on with a company that can answer your needs. Among those questions to ask are: 

• How long have you been in business? 

You don’t want a company that just started up in somebody’s garage. However, that doesn’t mean you don’t want to help the ‘little guy’ get off the ground either. If they haven’t been established as a business for very long, typically less than 5 years, ask the owner how long they have been in the industry. 

• How many electricians do you have on staff? Are they fully certified and licensed? 

While a one-man band can do an immediate job you have a need for right now, what about in the future? If they are a successful business providing residential electrical services, they won’t be able to get you as quickly. Making sure they have a team of certified and licensed that can handle your needs just as well them.

• What safety measures are taken on each job?

This is important in case of any damage to your home or if you or anyone in your home is hurt. Or a staff member of the residential electrical services company can be filed against your homeowner’s insurance.  Things you would like to hear them tell you to include: 

• Insurance – ask for proof of comprehensive insurance, worker’s compensation, etc. 
• Company and industry training of each technician, including safety policy and continued education,  including electrical safety training.
• Dispatch the technician that is right and trained for the job they are going to service.
• Plan the equipment and supplies needed for each job prior to the job.
• Ensure the technicians have and use all proper equipment, supplies, and tools.
• Ensure each technician wears proper PPE (personal protective equipment).
• Review with technicians to use all safety precautions.

• What is your warranty policy for services performed? 

This is important! You don’t want to pay for residential electrical services to be performed only to have the work insufficient. Accept nothing less than a 30-day warranty, preferably a 90-day warranty or even for the lifetime you own the house. This should be stated on their contract or receipt. 

• Do you offer emergency repair services? 

It is great to have residential electrical services come one time for that new light fixture, but what if that light fixture starts to smell like it is burning at 8 pm on a Saturday night? You want to be able to count on the same company, preferably if the same technician, can come out to inspect the problem and make any corrections or repairs needed. 

• What is your rate for residential electrical services? 

Some electricians will have flat rates for some jobs, but for bigger jobs that are time-consuming and require more technical work, they may charge by the hour plus materials. It is important to get this information upfront and in writing before they do the work.

• Do you have references from past clients?

You should be given a written list of past clients of their residential electrical services, similar to what you’re asking them to do for your home. Once you have the list, before you hire the company, call at least 3 or 4 and follow up with the job they did. Things you want to ask these customers should include: 

• Was the job done satisfactorily?
• Was it done on time? 
• Did they stay on budget?  If not, was it due to changes on your part?
• Did they leave the area clean once the job was complete? 

Exemplary Electrical Assistance is Available

This is your home, the most expensive investment you’ll have, so it makes sense to have the best possible residential electrical services. Asking these companies these questions we have outlined is one way to protect that investment. If you are in need of residential electrical services in Norco and New Orleans, LA, please get in touch with us at 985-764-8191 today!