Category: Electrical

We know that, to many, a fuse box sounds like something from the stone age…even if you still have one. But you know the old saying: “Don’t fix what ain’t broken.”  It’s a rule of thumb at best and, like any other, there are lots of exceptions…fuse box replacement being one of them. Fuse boxes were first installed when circuit breaker panels weren’t available and, at the time, they performed their intended task quite well. Over time, however, the average American home required more and more power as a greater variety of electronics emerged on the scene. That led to [...]

There are times when something is fine as is yet enhanced with a little something extra. Like that little black dress. Perfect on its own, but better with a great pair of shoes and a complementary purse. How about a basket of chips? Not too shabby alone, but often better with a tasty dip. Well, the same holds true for certain areas of your home, like your kitchen. Whether you’re planning to take on a full kitchen remodel or just looking for inexpensive ways to improve its look and functionality, consider adding under cabinet lighting. Hard-wired or battery-powered, under cabinet [...]

Every home needs some TLC to help keep it in tip top shape, especially older homes. In fact, unless you keep up with the big and small upgrades and repairs, the task can become downright daunting. While many home improvements are purely cosmetic, many more are not. That’s especially true of home electrical fixtures and wiring, which forever has an impact on family safety and home security. Outlets and switches are easily the most noticeable of home electrical fixtures. Why is that important? Because if something goes wrong, you have an immediate opportunity to make the necessary repair. Right now, [...]

The spark from an electrical outlet, the sudden hush of electronics and appliances, or the dim of a bathroom light as you turn on the blow dryer all provide clues that you may have an electrical wiring issue. But not all clues are that obvious. Hot Outlets – It’s common for appliances to generate heat during normal operation, but the outlets they’re plugged into should not. If you notice an outlet that’s warm to the touch, unplug cords connected to it, and don’t use the outlet again until the situation has been investigated and repaired as needed. Flickering Lights – [...]

If you’re looking to beef up home security, one of the most practical, relatively inexpensive, and most stylish methods is lighting. The right outdoor lighting not only will provide a flash of ambiance but can help prevent accidents and deter crime. To help you get the most from security lighting, here are 5 important things to consider. Consider all areas. The more blind spots there are on your property, the more vulnerable you are to intruders. While smaller, softer lights may seem purely decorative, they can be equally effective as flood lights. High, low, or both? Some lighting options, like [...]

One way to achieve greater home security is with landscape lighting.  It’s available in many forms, including front yard lamp posts, miniature can lights embedded in shrubbery and flower beds, or even solar or LED pathway lights. The point of landscape lighting is to help illuminate your yard and home so you can monitor the exterior without the need for large, unattractive security lights. Landscape lighting has other uses, too. Use to illuminate evening get-togethers, make it easier for others to locate your home, and for added curb appeal. Here are a few quick tips for employing landscape lighting to [...]

The warm weather months are a time to let loose and have fun. After all, who can resist a hot sunny day lounging by the pool, listening to music on the patio, or maybe even trimming your hedges with an electric trimmer. (Hey, some people really do like yard work!) Whatever it is that floats your boat, it’s important to pay extra attention to electrical safety now that it’s being used indoors and out.  Here are several electrical safety tips we hope you find useful: Keep all electrical toys and appliances away from water, and don’t touch them with wet [...]

How are you at pop quizzes? Ready to try one now? Great! Open a Word Doc on your computer or grab a pad of paper and pen and, in 60 seconds, jot down every service you can think of that an electrician routinely performs. We’ll sit back and wait while you complete your assignment… Okay, time’s up. And now, let’s see how close you come to the scope of electrical services we provide here at Burton: Air conditioning wiring Alarms Carbon monoxide testers Ceiling fan wiring Code compliance & corrections Electric service upgrades Meter wiring Outdoor decorative & security lighting [...]

Winter is that time of year when home fires are the most likely. It makes sense, too, when you consider how much more time we spend indoors. We also light more candles, use our fireplaces more, and consume more electricity, too. All of which means an added degree of caution is needed to help protect your home and family. Here are several ways to accomplish that dual goal: • Read the manufacturer’s instructions before using a space heater. Also, ensure that the heater has been approved by a certified testing organization like UL (Underwriters Laboratory). • Keep space heaters at [...]

When the term “home theater” first came into vogue, it pretty much meant just that: a small-scale version of a commercial cinema with its own separate room for the rich and well-to-do. Well, a lot of home theaters have been built since then.  Some are still awe inspiring in concept and construction.  But most others don’t require a separate room and not a great deal of equipment either. A home theater experience can be as simple and basic as a wide-screen TV combined with a DVD player, sound bar and stereo – or, a home theater receiver – and some [...]

As cold weather approaches and we spend more time indoors, it’s always a good idea to ensure that a home's electrical system is working efficiently and safely. Burton is an Omaha electrician that offers a complete range of services, and we’d be happy to assist you with making electrical improvements to your home. Here are ten ideas well worth considering: Check outlets for loose plugs, which can overheat and cause a fire. Test GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets to ensure they reset properly after you’ve pressed the test button. If you have young children, install safety covers over unused [...]