Why did my garbage disposal stop working?

Garbage disposals are extremely helpful in today’s kitchens and are used to chop almost all food scraps in the sink drain, which makes cleaning the kitchen a lot easier.  The garbage disposal’s job is to chop, dice, and cut food into small enough pieces for the food scraps to fit through the plumbing.  If your garbage disposal stops working and you don’t know where to start, below are some common reasons that garbage disposals stop working and how to fix the problem.   

Jammed Garbage Disposal

A jammed garbage disposal may occur when something has been put in the disposal that is unable to be chopped up and flushed away.  If this happens, the motor of the garbage disposal will hum but the blades will not continue to spin.  First, make sure that the power is turned off to prevent any damage to the disposal motor.  Once you are sure that the main power source is also disconnected from the garbage disposal, you can use a tool or utensil, such as a wrench, in order to remove the foreign object that caused the disposal to jam. 

Reset Button

Sometimes the garbage disposal may become overloaded from food scraps and simply stop working.  Look beneath the sink at the disposal unit and press the small red reset button.  Most of the time pressing the reset button will make your garbage disposal start work again, but if your disposal does not begin to work after pressing this button, this may indicate a much greater problem with your disposal’s motor. 

Clogged Pipes

Certain hard or coarse food scraps are not meant for the disposal and may get lodged in the disposal if they enter, causing the pipes to become clogged.  The pipes can also become clogged if you do not use enough water to flush the food down when operating the disposal.  If you experience a clog in your garbage disposal, the clog would most likely be in the p-trap under your sink.  After putting a bucket beneath the trap, to fix the disposal you can separate the pipes in order to remove the waste using an auger or other unclogging device. 

Power

If you cannot get your garbage disposal to function at all, then it is possible that there is a lack of power.  First, check that your disposal is connected to an outlet and that the circuit breaker is in the “on” position.  If after completing these actions your disposal still will not work and a tripped breaker switch is not causing the problem, it will be necessary to hire an electrician in order to access the situation since there is most likely a motor or wiring issue with your garbage disposal.  

Adding a Chandelier

Adding a Chandelier 

Does your home need a little extra elegance or an added touch to make a room pop or additional lighting?  A great way to enhance any room is to add a chandelier. 

Focal point

Take your room from dull and drab to bright and fabulous just by adding a chandelier.  Choosing a chandelier that fits your tastes and style will create a beautiful focal point in any room.  With so many choices, you will have no problem picking the one that is best for you. 

Added Light

If you are looking to add some light to an existing room or if you need light over a table but you don’t want direct light, then a chandelier would be a beautiful addition.  Chandeliers come in many size options from as little as 3 lights to numerous points of light. 

Ambiance

Chandeliers can create dramatic lighting options.  A multi faceted chandelier can create beautiful light patterns and shadows.  When you have a chandelier installed you will also have a dimmer switch.  You will be able to set any mood you desire by being able to adjust the brightness of your light.  If you are hosting a dinner party, maybe turn the lights up a bit.  For that romantic dinner, bring the lights down to create ambiance for the occasion. 

Hire an electrician

Once you have decided to add a chandelier, do not attempt install on your own.  This is a larger job and should be done by a professional.  Your local, licensed electrician will be able to put the chandelier in the spot you want, with a dimmer switch added without any effort on your part.  The job will be done quickly and expertly and you will be enjoying your new chandelier in no time. On Time Electric of Tampa can help with any electrical need from installs to troubleshooting. Call today 813-545-9333

Electricians Make Your Home Safer

How Can Your Electrician Make Your Home Safer?

When you need an electrician it's usually to hang a new light fixture or relocate an outlet but did you know electricians can also make your home safer? A good electrician can advise you on the best solutions for your basic electrical needs and also how to keep your home safe and secure. 

Hard Wired Fire Alarms

It is the law to have a fire alarm on every floor of your home.  But the law doesn’t specify which type; however you can be assured that a hard wired alarm is the best choice. This means that they are not battery operated but are directly connected to your homes electric system. A licensed electrician can advise the most effective location for the alarms and the best system for your needs. 

Carbon Monoxide Detector

Every home should have a carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide, CO², is a colorless and odorless exhaust gas that is deadly.  If any of your appliances or your furnace uses natural gas or propane then you need a carbon monoxide detector because this is the only way to detect CO² leaks. Alarms should be hard wired in your home close to the ground because carbon monoxide is heavier than the air we breathe so it lays close to the floor. Detectors should also be placed near every furnace and on every floor of your home.

Surge Protection and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupt Outlets

A surge protector protects electronic devices from voltage spikes often caused by lighting, power outages or surges. They can be added to the electrical panel and are particularly useful for expensive electronic devices such as computers, televisions and all appliances. 

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupt outlets (GFCI) should be installed close to water, moisture and outside.   They are more sensitive than regular outlets and trip within 5 milliseconds due to detection of moisture. Water + electric = shocks.  They are required in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, patios, etc. A professional electrician will know all of your local code requirements and will be able to install the proper GCFI for your home safety needs.

Security Lighting

Outdoor and security lighting not only improves the after-dark curb appeal of your home but also keeps it safe. When we think of security lighting we usually think of a bright spotlight that comes on automatically if someone walks up to the property. This is important and can be very effective but there are many ways to add lighting that is decorative and functional. Dark and poorly lit homes are more appealing to would-be burglars. Carefully placed outdoor lights can not only deter intruders but also highlight and enhance the appearance of your home.

Hard Wired Baby Monitors

Baby monitors, both audio and visual, keep infants safe and give parents peace of mind. Many parents use the plug-in kind. These can be helpful but are also far more susceptible to interference especially from cell and cordless phones. Hard wired baby monitors are more reliable and can easily be installed by a competent electrician.  You should have them professionally installed in any room you need to keep an eye and ear on your little one at all times. 

When thinking of home safety an electrician can be your best friend.  He will have the latest fire alarms and CO² detectors and know exactly where to place them, he will keep you and your entire family safe inside and out.  

Call today for a free consult on how we can help you make your home as safe as it can be. Visit our facebook page for other great day to day tips!

https://www.facebook.com/ontimeelectricoftampabay 

Adding a Ceiling Fan

Ceiling Fan Installation

Spring is a great time to add a new ceiling fan to any room of your home, even outside.  Ceiling fans can add to the décor and function of any room in your home.  There are several benefits to having ceiling fans indoors and out. It is always important to hire a licensed electrician to properly install your new ceiling fan. Take a look at the benefits:

Climate Control

Sure, you have a well functioning a/c unit but having a ceiling fan will increase air circulation and keep your home at a more constant temperature.  With a ceiling fan running you won’t feel bursts of cold air or stints of stagnant air.  Also, by helping the air circulate more effectively, your HVAC unit will take less of a burden, therefore cutting down on your electric bill. 

Lighting

If you are looking to add lighting to any room, a ceiling fan with lights is a great idea.  There are typically 3-4 directional lights on a ceiling fan.  When you have one installed you will see an immediate difference in the brightness of your room.  Ceiling fans are also made to be energy efficient and if you use them for lighting you will likely be cutting down on using additional table and floor lamps thus cutting your energy costs. 

Outside

If you have a covered lanai or patio area, you should have a ceiling fan installed outside. The air tends to get stagnant under cover and the ceiling fan will circulate the air creating a more comfortable space.  Also, bugs don’t tend to hover when the air is moving. 

Décor

Ceiling fans come in a wide variety of colors and styles.  You can enhance your décor by choosing a decorative ceiling fan that goes with the style of your room.

There are many great reasons to have a new ceiling fan installed.  Call On Time Electrician today to schedule an appointment. 813-545-9333

Why Is My Light Switch Not Working ?!?

 There are a few reason a light switch may not be working. The first thing I would check is the obvious, the light bulb. It may be the bulb and not the actual switch. So it may be a broken light switch, this job requires the replacement of the switch. This can be a DIY project if you know what you are doing and have knowledge of electricity and how it works. If not you can find a local Tampa Electrician. What might seem like a simple fix could become a disaster.
 When I replace a light switch whether it is embossed or not I shut off the switch to the main power supply in my circuit breaker panel box. I unscrew the two screws holding on the switch plate and remove it, then the actual switch from the box. This is where it can get tricky, maybe time to call that Tampa electrician. I like to remove one wire at a time and reattach them as I go to avoid any mix ups. Again if this is something new to you call a local Tampa electrician for advice. After the wires are right I replace all items, return power and check the switch.
 Sometimes the issue is caused by a tripped circuit breaker or a burnt out fuse, depending on the set up. Before purchasing a new switch I always check the circuit breaker or fuse box. The fix may be as simple as turning the fuse back on. Keep in mind that the fused popped for a reason. When it comes to any repairs on a breaker box I call my local Tampa electrician. This job is for the pros and the Tampa electrician comes with training and expertise. A mistake with electricity can be deadly so be safe and smart.

 If you are in Florida and are in need of a local Tampa electrician to help you with a problem check out On Time Electric in the Tampa area @ http://www.mytampabayelectrician.com I know I always feel safer checking with the pros before I start a new Do-It-Yourself project. It is better to be safe than sorry. They do not only serve the Tampa Bay are but surrounding areas as well.  If the repair can't be made by me I know I am in good hands when it can be done by them. Check out the local Tampa Electrician today for more information.

Federal Pacific Panels and the Dangers they Pose

Federal Pacific panels

were designed with the intention of ensuring your home's electrical safety. From time to time, there are reported cases of these panels breaking down and malfunctioning, leading to the danger of houses catching fires, with the destruction of property and in dire cases resulting in loss of lives.

Homeowners are constantly faced with the dangers and risks associated with Federal Pacific panels. There are some reasons why these panels might be a danger to homes and the lives of people. This feature aims at highlighting the reasons behind the dangers associated with federal pacific electric panels.

Old panels

The Federal Pacific panels have been in existence for decades now since they became operational in the 1950's through to 1980's. There have been many changes and modifications in features of the panels through time. Many homes are fitted with these old panels, and homeowners of such homes stand the risk of having them malfunction. In the event of these old models of panels malfunctioning, they pose a great danger to the house and lives of people.

The old versions of the Federal Pacific Electric panels have crowded wires; spring mounted bus bars and active breakers that are not fitted with the current safety features. This is the reason such panels malfunction on many occasions.

Design flaws

Some of the Federal Pacific panels might have faults that originate from their design. An example of such design-related defects includes Breakers tripping in cases where the dead front cover is removed, failure of reconnection of the Breakers with bus bars, jamming Breakers that result in the panels being overcrowded and the Breakers splitting when they are placed into sockets. Such flaws almost always guarantee a malfunction of the panels resulting in the danger of electric fires.

Manufacturing flaws

Defective Federal Pacific panels might have resulted from flaws created by the manufacturers. The Breakers designs and their materials may not be strong enough to serve their function. Such manufacturing flaws are the reasons behind the many cases of malfunctioning panels resulting in their associated risks.

When a Pacific panel trips, there is a surge of extreme amounts of electric power from the power supply to your homes resulting in many cases, electric fires.

Tests carried out on Federal Pacific panels installed within the 1980's indicate that a third of such panels are defective and may not trip off properly in the events of danger. Many of these panels have been found to be unfit to be placed in homes but still many homeowners are not aware of this.

Hire a licensed electrician

It is important to homeowners whose Federal Pacific panels are between 25 and 65 years old to have them reassessed with the necessary upgrades being fitted or have them completely removed from their homes and installing the latest versions of electric panels. A proper assessment of the panels by a licensed electrician or home inspector will tell whether the panel is in good functioning condition or whether they are obsolete and should be replaced.

It is wise to have the Federal Pacific electric panel in your home checked and assessed with a professional, licensed electrician to avert any future dangers and risks associated with old, obsolete and out of function or malfunctioning federal pacific electric panel. A good, functional Pacific electric panel should be able to offer proper protection to families and homes against dangers related to electric faults.

Ensure your house is fitted with the correct electric panel that has all the latest safety updates to prevent the risks associated with fires as a result of malfunction, out of date federal pacific panels.

On Time Electric has many years of experience dealing with federal pacific panels. They are a licensed electrician in Tampa, FL and can provide electric panel changes safely and efficiently for your home. Do not hesitate to call and ask for a free inspection to determine the safety of your electric panel. 813-545-9333

Bright Ideas! Saving Money with Light Bulbs

As a homeowner, there are always suggestions or ad campaigns targeted to help you save money. I know whenever I am installing recessed lighting or rewiring a new kitchen I am always asked about efficiency and cost savings regarding the updated electrical. There are many corners you can cut to help you save money or use energy more efficiently in order to cut costs. One of the easiest ways, that you have most control over is in the lighting of your home.
There has been much debate over light bulbs, their cost and the amount of money they potentially save you. A couple of decades ago, light bulbs were just that. There were not many choices, and we didn't really think twice about how much energy they used or whether there was an alternative choice. Head to your local box store or hardware store today and your choices seem endless.
So here we will discuss the differences between the newest choice and seemingly best choice between incandescent and LED. Years ago, costs for LED would have put this comparison out of reach for many, but with the growing market and manufacturing options it is now a serious contender.
Let's discuss the main differences. Incandescent bulbs (probably what you have in your lamp right now) runs an electric current through a wire filament and provides a warm glow. LED's (light-emitting diodes) were most commonly found in your electronics like your alarm clocks years ago. When this technology was first introduced, the light strength was fairly weak. The biggest difference between the two light bulbs is the duration of which they last. Incandescent bulbs can last the average user 3-6 months depending on the usage, but typically 1,000-2,000 hours. On the contrary, LED bulbs can last 30,000-50,000 hours. Amazing right? but durability and efficiency comes at a price. We discussed how high prices and new technology go hand in hand, but discovered and refined technology now equals affordable and reasonable prices. Some might say, it pays to wait. An incandescent GE light bulb at your neighborhood hardware store will probably run you $1.99, while with today's technology an LED bulb will only set you back $8.
So 2,000 hours of use for $2 will cost you .001 cent per hour with your incandescent bulb, 50,000 hour of use for $8 will cost you .00016 cents per hour with your LED bulb. Great! so we know we get more bang for our buck with LED in terms of use and length... but what about energy consumption?
Lighting can be as much as 25% of your household's energy consumption.
Here is an excellent example of energy savings for the differences in these light bulbs (the bulb costs and cost of electricity obviously vary, but an excellent illustration):

	LED	CFL	Incandescent
Light bulb projected lifespan	50,000 hours	10,000 hours	1,200 hours
Watts per bulb (equiv. 60 watts)	10	14	60
Cost per bulb	$35.95	$3.95	$1.25
KWh of electricity used over 50,000 hours	500	700	3000
Cost of electricity (@ 0.10per KWh)	$50	$70	$300
Bulbs needed for 50k hours of use	1	5	42
Equivalent 50k hours bulb expense	$35.95	$19.75	$52.50
Total cost for 50k hours	$85.75	$89.75	$352.50

sourced: http://eartheasy.com/live_led_bulbs_comparison.html#a

So, while you may be considering cost savings for your home- the best place to start might be the quickest yet most efficient option... your light bulbs! 

For more tips and information regarding electrical work, panel changes, home improvements, visit our site at www.mytampabayelectrician.com