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Practicing Electrical Safety This Holiday Season with Little Sparkie Electric

As the holiday season approaches, homes and businesses alike light up with festive cheer. From twinkling string lights to powerful outdoor displays, November is the perfect time to bring warmth and sparkle to your space. But before you start untangling those cords, let Little Sparkie Electric, your trusted local electrician, remind you to keep electrical safety at the forefront of your mind and guide you with essential tips and services to keep your electrical systems safe and efficient.

Why Electrical Safety Matters This Season

The increased use of electrical decorations and heaters during the colder months can strain your home’s electrical system. Faulty wiring or overworked outlets are common culprits for accidents, which makes proactive care essential. With Little Sparkie Electric, you can ensure your home is not only merry but also safe for the holidays. To help you stay safe while creating a festive atmosphere, the Little Sparkie Electric team has put together a detailed guide to holiday electrical safety:

1. Inspect Decorations Before Use

Before you deck the halls, take a moment to examine all your lights and cords. Look for:

Frayed Wires: These can spark and ignite, creating a fire hazard.
Loose Connections: Damaged plugs or sockets can lead to electrical shocks.
Burnt-Out Bulbs: Replace any burnt-out bulbs promptly to avoid uneven electrical loads.
Pro Tip: Replace any damaged decorations immediately. It’s better to invest in new, safer options than risk an accident.

2. Use Outdoor-Rated Extension Cords

When setting up outdoor displays, always ensure you’re using extension cords designed specifically for exterior use. These cords are:

Weather-Resistant: Built to withstand moisture and temperature changes.
Durable: Equipped with heavy-duty insulation to handle outdoor conditions.
Never use indoor extension cords outside, as they lack the necessary protection from the elements.

3. Avoid Overloading Circuits

Holiday lights and decorations can draw significant power, and overloading a single circuit increases the risk of overheating or tripping breakers. To prevent this:

Plug decorations into different outlets to spread the load.
Use surge protectors to safeguard your decorations and devices from power surges.
Limit the number of strings connected together. Most manufacturers recommend no more than three light strings per outlet.
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure whether your system can handle the extra load, call Little Sparkie Electric for an inspection or panel upgrade.

4. Unplug Decorations Before Bed or When Leaving Home

Leaving lights or decorations plugged in unattended increases the risk of electrical fires. Get into the habit of:

Turning off all decorations before going to bed.
Using timers to automatically shut off lights at a designated time.
Ensuring any candles or flame-based decorations are extinguished.
Pro Tip: Timers not only enhance safety but can also save energy during the holiday season.

5. Upgrade to LED Lights

If you’re still using traditional incandescent holiday lights, consider upgrading to LEDs. Here’s why:

Energy-Efficient: LEDs use up to 90% less electricity than incandescent bulbs.
Cool to the Touch: Unlike traditional lights, LEDs don’t heat up, reducing the risk of fire.
Long-Lasting: LED lights can last up to 10 times longer, making them a cost-effective choice.
Pro Tip: Look for LED lights with the ENERGY STAR® label for the highest efficiency and safety standards.

Bonus Tip: Secure Cords and Lights Properly

Keep cords and lights away from high-traffic areas to prevent tripping hazards. Use insulated hooks or clips to hang lights instead of nails or staples, which can damage the wires and create a shock risk.

By following these tips, you’ll not only enjoy a beautiful and festive home but also ensure the safety of your family and property. Little Sparkie Electric is here to help with any of your holiday electrical needs, from inspections to installations.

How We Can Help This Holiday Season:

Electrical Inspections
Schedule a comprehensive inspection to identify potential issues before they become hazards. This is especially important if you’re hosting holiday gatherings or using extra appliances.

Troubleshooting and Repairs
Noticed flickering lights or tripped breakers? Don’t wait until the season is in full swing—call Little Sparkie Electric to address the problem right away.

Contact us at 301-606-5181 or visit our website at LittleSparkie.com.
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The Importance of a Reliable Electrician in Repairing Your Valuable Tiffany Lamp

Tiffany lamps are more than just beautiful light fixtures; they are works of art. With their intricate stained-glass designs and timeless appeal, these lamps are often passed down through generations, making them treasured heirlooms. Many Tiffany lamps are highly valuable, both sentimentally and monetarily, so when one requires repair, you want to ensure it’s handled with expert care.

Whether it’s a loose connection, a broken socket, or faulty wiring, trusting a professional electrician for these delicate repairs is essential. Here’s why choosing a reliable electrician is so important when it comes to fixing your prized Tiffany lamp.

The Delicate Nature of Tiffany Lamps
Tiffany lamps are known for their intricate leaded glass shades, which are often hand-assembled with hundreds of small pieces of colored glass. These delicate materials require special care during repairs. The wiring and internal components must be serviced without disturbing the glass, making the job more complex than a standard lamp repair.

An electrician with experience in handling antique or valuable lighting will understand the precision required to fix a Tiffany lamp without damaging its fragile components.

Expertise in Electrical Repairs
While Tiffany lamps are prized for their aesthetic appeal, they are also electrical fixtures that require proper maintenance and care. Over time, the wiring in a Tiffany lamp can become worn or outdated, increasing the risk of electrical hazards like short circuits or electrical fires.

A licensed electrician has the expertise to identify and replace old wiring, ensuring your Tiffany lamp operates safely. They can also repair or replace any faulty sockets, switches, or other internal components while preserving the lamp’s original design.

Value Preservation
Tiffany lamps are often collector’s items with considerable value. When a repair is needed, it’s critical to hire someone who understands the importance of maintaining the lamp’s integrity. Attempting to fix it yourself or hiring an unqualified technician could lead to further damage, devaluing the lamp.

A professional electrician will not only ensure that the lamp functions correctly but will also take care to preserve its value by using appropriate materials and methods during the repair process.

Custom Solutions for Antique Lamps
Many antique Tiffany lamps may not have parts that are readily available at local stores. A skilled electrician can create custom solutions, sourcing or fabricating the necessary parts to ensure the lamp remains true to its original form.

By hiring a reliable professional, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your Tiffany lamp is being repaired using the best possible materials and techniques.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance
Beyond repairs, having your Tiffany lamp inspected by an electrician periodically is a smart way to ensure it remains in excellent condition. Regular maintenance can help prevent common electrical issues and preserve the lamp’s value over time.

From cleaning dust off the fixture to inspecting the wiring, a professional can help keep your Tiffany lamp shining brightly for years to come.

The Importance of Well-Placed Outdoor Security Lighting for Your Home

When it comes to protecting your family and property, well-placed outdoor security lighting serves as one of the first lines of defense. By deterring potential intruders and providing visibility in critical areas, modern security lighting plays a crucial role in home safety.

Why Outdoor Security Lighting Matters
Properly installed outdoor lighting can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins and vandalism. Criminals prefer dark, unlit areas where they can move unnoticed. By illuminating your home’s exterior, you make it less attractive to potential intruders. Additionally, outdoor lighting can prevent accidents by lighting up pathways, stairs, and other hazards.

Features of Modern Security Lighting
Today’s security lighting goes beyond simple floodlights. Here are some features that make modern security lighting both effective and energy-efficient:

1. LED Lights
LED lights are the preferred choice for outdoor security lighting due to their long lifespan and low energy consumption. They provide bright, clear illumination, ensuring that all areas around your home are well-lit without significantly increasing your electricity bill.

2. Smart Lighting
Smart lighting systems allow you to control your security lights remotely via smartphone apps. You can schedule lights to turn on and off at specific times, adjust brightness levels, and receive alerts if motion is detected. This flexibility means you can manage your home’s security lighting even when you’re away.

3. Dusk-to-Dawn Automation
Dusk-to-dawn lights automatically turn on at sunset and off at sunrise. This automation ensures your home is always protected without you having to remember to switch the lights on or off. It’s a convenient way to maintain security lighting and save energy.

4. Motion Sensors
Motion sensor lights activate when movement is detected within a certain range. This sudden illumination can startle potential intruders and draw attention to suspicious activity. Motion sensors also conserve energy by only lighting up when needed, rather than staying on all night.

Strategic Placement of Security Lighting
For maximum effectiveness, security lighting should be strategically placed around your property. Here are some key areas to focus on:

Entry Points: Install lights around doors, windows, and garage entrances to deter intruders.
Pathways and Driveways: Illuminate walkways and driveways to ensure safe passage and visibility.
Backyard and Sides of the House: Don’t neglect the back and sides of your home, as these areas can be vulnerable to intruders.
Outdoor Structures: Shed, garages, and other outdoor buildings should also have security lighting.

Well-placed outdoor security lighting is a critical component of home security. By utilizing modern features like LEDs, smart lighting, dusk-to-dawn automation, and motion sensors, you can ensure your property is well-lit and protected. Investing in effective security lighting not only deters potential intruders but also provides peace of mind for you and your family. Illuminate your home’s exterior and enhance your security measures today.

Seeking a generator maintenance technician

Seeking a generator maintenance technician for flexible work hours. Immediate need.

Mechanical ability is a must. Generators are as much of a machine (like a car) as they are electrical and/or electronic appliances. Mechanical and electrical experience are a plus, but work ethic and personality are more important. Willingness to learn is paramount. Will train the right person.

Maturity and the ability to relate to customers are a must. Competitive wages commensurate with experience and competence. Non-stuffy work environment – we have fun on the job.

Military veterans, auto mechanics, and semi- or totally-retired people who would enjoy a challenge and an opportunity to earn additional income are also encouraged to apply.

Please email your resume to [email protected].

Don’t forget lighting when selling your home!

Hiring an electrician may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re planning to sell your home. But as Redfin’s Ryan Smith notes in this article, you don’t want rooms that are poorly lit or lights that don’t work!

Trying to sell a poorly lit home

“You want to show your home in the best light, so take the time to really gauge the quality of your lighting by closing your curtains/blinds and looking at each room as though you’re a potential homebuyer. Make a note of any rooms that are poorly lit or just seem dark and then call an electrician so that you can have some additional lighting installed.

“Even worse than a poorly lit room, however, is when the lights don’t work at all. Sometimes the light bulb is just burnt out, while other times the socket itself is in need of repair. Consider calling an electrician before you begin showing your home to make sure it’s shining its brightest like the one above. Potential buyers (and your bank account) will thank you for the investment.”

Read Ryan’s full article here.

Best wishes for a safe and happy 2020!

As we march into a new decade, we want to thank our many customers for making the past year another successful business year for Little Sparkie Electric!

This month we celebrate our 13th year in business! We defied the odds when we started our business in January of 2007, in the early days of what would come to be known as “the Great Recession.”

Our first paying job came just two days after we opened our doors, and our business has been growing steadily ever since!

Keeping business busy by servicing generators

One of the ways we’ve grown our business is by expanding our Generac Generator sales and services for commercial businesses and residences.

If you haven’t already done so, it’s good to get your generator professionally serviced before the ice storms hit! Many people don’t realize that a generator is like an engine, and servicing it is no project for a DIYer!

After servicing generators for 13 years, and training novice technicians, we know what to look for as well as what to listen for.

Although we have all of the sophisticated testing equipment, experience plays a major role in tracking down problems and coming up with solutions!

Read about our 10th anniversary post here!

Get ALL of your Technology Working Together!

Homes and businesses today rely on integrating technology, including phones, TVs, data cabling, and electrical wiring. In spite of what you may read online, a certified electrician is the best person to design and install a comprehensive system that will meet all of your needs.

We can step in upfront to assist with the initial design for your business, a tenant build-out, or your home. We can also fit a wiring system into an existing home or business.

An interesting recent project we did for a telescope observatory in Mt. Airy included running a 30-amp feeder out to a subpanel that we installed in the observatory and installing receptacle circuits in the dome according to the builder’s requirements. We also installed a second conduit for a Cat5e data communications wiring and installed jacks in the dome for the computer hookup.

“When I managed the Regus Business Center in Frederick I had a customer that needed a remote TV set-up with special electrical connections in his office.

“I immediately recommended Little Sparkie Electric because I needed someone I could trust. It was a complex job that also required making connections to electrical boxes in other parts of the building and coordinating with the building manager.

“Catherine knew what she was doing – I didn’t have to worry about anything – she did a wonderful job for my client.”

— Jean Wright, former General Manager, Regus Business Centers

Our services include:

New construction, tenant fit-outs, remodeling, additions, basement finishing, bathrooms, kitchens – you name it!
Troubleshooting and repairs
Air conditioning/appliance circuits
Additional receptacles
Backup generators – installation, maintenance, and repair
Baseboard heaters
Basement wiring
Bathroom exhaust fans
Boiler circuits
Breaker replacements
Ceiling fans
Home theater systems
Move existing telephone jacks
Install new telephone or data jacks
Assist with television cabling services, such as cable TV or satellite service
Electric vehicle chargers
GFCI outlet replacement
Indoor residential and commercial lighting
Occupancy and motion sensors/lighting controls
Outdoor residential, commercial and parking lot lighting
See more

Let us know if we can assist you with any of your home or commercial electrical projects! [email protected] or 301-606-5181.

Avoiding Rodents and Electrical Arcs!

Nobody likes mice or rats on their property, but beyond the obvious reasons for keeping rodents out, here’s another one: they can chew your electrical wires and potentially cause a fire.

Damaged, worn, cracked or corroded electrical wires can increase the chance of electrical accidents. Have a qualified electrician check your wiring on a regular basis to make sure your home and workplace wiring is safe. If you need to, upgrade and replace old and faulty wires.

Some common home and workplace hazards include:

Loose or improper connections, such as electrical outlets or switches
Frayed appliance or extension cords
Pinched or pierced wire insulation, which could occur from, for example, a chair leg sitting on an extension cord
Cracked wire insulation caused by heat, age, corrosion or bending
Overheated wires or cords
Damaged electrical appliances
And, of course, electrical wire that has been chewed by rodents

Dust can also be dangerous!

Too much dust is also dangerous, whether from coal, silica, cement, asbestos, grain, fabrics, flour, wood, metals or materials like leather and rubber. A cloud of concentrated dust is potentially combustible, in addition to causing physical problems.

Use an exhaust ventilation system, a dilution ventilation system, or a vacuum that’s approved for collecting dust. The presence of dusts in ignitable quantities means that the area where they are present is considered a “hazardous location”, which means many new safety rules come into play.

For home, office, and workplace, make sure your portable fire extinguishers are inspected and tagged as often as needed, and that your family and staff know how to operate them.

And finally, always hire a licensed electrical contractor. This is not the area to be a DIYer or to rely on an all-around handy person. Even a “small job” done carelessly or incorrectly can pose serious life-threatening fire hazards. A break in a hot wire or a loose connection won’t trip a circuit breaker (except for the newer arc-fault breakers) or blow a fuse, and the resulting electrical arc is literally the hottest natural phenomenon on earth.

Safety pays off in many ways!

Little Sparkie Electric, LLC