Seattle Commercial & Industrial Electrical Contractor
4826 B Street NW Suite 101 Auburn, WA 98001
Mon-Fri: 7AM- 4PM
16 Aug 2018
office outlets

Is it Time to Replace your Office Outlets?

Office electricity is dependent on electrical outlets. With time, electrical outlets may start to loosen or become discolored. If you avoid or are unaware of the signs to replace old outlets, there can be safety hazard such as burns or shocks. Therefore, make sure to have properly functioning outlets in the workplace and to always have a plan for worst-case scenarios. Discover 4 signs that indicate it is time to replace your office outlets.

  1. Damaged Exterior

Typically, the cover or exterior part of an outlet does not have much correlation to the functionality of an outlet. However, damage to the outer cover can indicate possible damage inside the outlet. To be proactive, we suggest replacing outlets that have a cracked or damaged cover to avoid future electrical issues that can arise in an office.

  1. Discoloration

Discoloration may be a cautionary flag that the outlet has been damaged, burned, or even poorly installed. Therefore, avoid using a discolored outlet at all costs. For one, scorch marks or melted elements are a result of a short circuit. Damage to the receptacle can lead to an unfortunate office fire. Call a professional electrician to inspect your outlets as soon as possible to avoid any hazards.

  1. Moisture

Outlets that are exposed to moisture can become damp and can start to function improperly. Inspect outlets located in the office kitchen, bathrooms, and other areas where water is present. This is why ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets are legally required, especially for receptacles may experience moisture. They protect an office and residences from fire, electrical shocks and electrocution.

  1. Loose

If plugs do not fit or are falling out of an outlet, your office needs new outlets. Also, if a plug can only partially stay inside of an outlet, this can be a fire hazard. Loose outlets can be an indication of possible internal fatigue. Thankfully, replacing loose outlets is a simple fix. Making sure that plugs can fit securely in an outlet is another proactive step to establish a safe office!

Contact Kirby Electric for Expert Electrical Help

As Seattle’s premier electric company, Kirby Electric specializes in commercial and industrial electrical solutions. We provide top electrical services such as, lighting retrofitsemergency service repairspreventative maintenance, and electrical inspections that best fit your building’s needs. Contact us today and request a quote at (253) 859-2000 or online here to learn more about our services.

27 Apr 2018
energy saving

Energy Saving Tips for Spring

Have you started your annual spring cleaning? While focusing on enhancing or tidying up your office or home, expand maintenance by also focusing improving how electricity is utilized. There is nothing better than to save money! Discover Kirby Electric’s quick and easy energy saving tips for spring to cut down on monthly electric bills.

Regulate the Thermostat

How often do you pay attention to a thermostat Even a simple change of two degrees can have some significance on reducing energy costs. Turn up the thermometer during the warmer seasons, and turn them down during the winter. By doing this, a consumer can potentially save approximately $180 in overall energy costs throughout the year.

Dusting

Dusting may be one of those office/home chores that are often overlooked, but make time to do so this spring! Electronics run less efficiently the more dust collects in a residence. Vents and computers happen to be one of the top items that are affected by dust, as it can cause overheating. Try to dust on a regular basis to ward off electrical issues and computer fires.

Unplug

Another energy saving tip is to utilize standby power settings. Also, turning off electronics that require electricity can help save an average of $5 each month in a home. Try unplugging electronic items that display lights or a clock to help reduce energy costs.

Reverse the Direction of Your Ceiling Fan

Are you aware that most fans include a switch that lets the fan spin in the opposite direction? Spring and summer are the best seasons to reverse the direction of the ceiling fan to reduce bills by 10%. Also, the wind-chill effect that the fan creates cools a residence in addition to preserving electricity.

Landscaping

A top energy saving seasonal tip for spring is focusing on strategical landscaping. Use your plants for shade! Placing trees and shrubs in vital areas around your home or office has the potential to save approximately 25% on heating and cooling usage. We advise placing desired plants to shade the west and east-facing windows. It is important to note to not plant anything by power lines.

Kirby Electric is a Premier Electrical Contractor Serving the Greater Seattle Area

As Seattle’s premier electric company, Kirby Electric specializes in commercial and industrial lighting. We provide top electrical services that best fit your building’s needs and present energy management solutions. Such solutions provide economically and environmentally beneficial services. Contact us today and request a quote at (253) 859-2000 or online here to learn more about our services.