Deciphering Specialty Wiring: What You Need To Know

Many homeowners find themselves wondering what kind of wiring their home needs. For some, the concept of “specialty wiring” is out of their normal wheelhouse.

Specialty wiring encompasses installations tailored to unique features not found in every home. From hot tubs and swimming pools to marinas, docks, fountains and even aluminum wiring, these specialized systems require meticulous attention to detail. This precision ensures safety and functionality.

In Florida, Gulf Coast Electric stands as a beacon of expertise in handling specialty wiring services. Our skilled professionals possess the knowledge and experience to tackle any project, prioritizing safety every step of the way.

Pool And Hot Tub Wiring: Ensuring Safe Summer Escapes

Pools and hot tubs are great additions to a house, especially in the summer. Whether it’s to keep the kids busy or to relax in the evening sun — the water is the perfect place to unwind.

No matter if you have a new or old pool, it’s important to have safely configured wiring and to get it inspected periodically. Electricity and water do not mix — making the pairing very dangerous. If the wiring isn’t installed properly, it could put you and your family at risk of injuries or death.

You can trust electrical contractors like Gulf Coast Electric to safely install and monitor your pool’s wiring to make sure everything is working. From your pool’s pump to your hot tub’s electrical hookup, we’ve got the expertise you need.

Plug-In Fountain Wiring: Balancing Beauty With Safety

An outdoor fountain can add elegance and style to any landscape. Enhance your home with an outdoor fountain, but don’t overlook the importance of safe wiring. Given that a plug-in fountain operates with water, it necessitates the use of a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) for safe electrical connection.

Gulf Coast Electric can expertly handle the installation of GFCI and wiring. Trust our capabilities to seamlessly blend aesthetics with functionality.

Aluminum Wiring Services: Mitigating Fire Risks

Many homes that were built between the mid-60s to the mid-70s have aluminum wiring. That wiring might have been installed incorrectly, suffered a lack of maintenance over the years or uses improper materials.

These issues can be dangerous and can cause a house fire. If your home uses aluminum wires, it’s important to have them inspected regularly and maintained properly to lower your risk of costly repairs later on. We offer comprehensive inspection and maintenance services to safeguard your home and loved ones.

Docks And Marinas: Navigating Electrical Hazards

For many, swimming and boating are key Florida activities in the summer season. But, there are electrical hazards that can go with that enjoyment. If your dock has electrical lighting or an automated lift for your boat, chances are that this wiring is experiencing additional wear and tear from the weather surrounding it.

Before hitting the water this season, make sure to have your wiring professionally inspected to reduce the chances of something going wrong during your summer fun. Our electricians provide thorough inspections and repairs to keep your aquatic playground free from electrical hazards.

Bucket Truck Services: Reaching New Heights

Need electrical services that are too high to reach? When electrical services require reaching new heights, Gulf Coast Electric’s bucket truck services have you covered. From parking lot lights to outdoor signs, our team can tackle any elevated project with precision and efficiency.

Ensuring Code Compliance: Gulf Coast Electric’s Commitment To Safety

As experts in specialty wiring, Gulf Coast Electric is dedicated to upholding the highest safety standards outlined by the National Electrical Code (NEC). This code mandates essential safety measures for electrical installations, particularly in areas like pools, spas and hot tubs.

The NEC now requires stringent GFCI protection for all electrical equipment near water sources, including pumps, lighting fixtures and receptacle outlets. Our company ensures full compliance with these regulations, safeguarding your home against electrical hazards.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters And Safety

GFCI technology plays a pivotal role in protecting homeowners from potential electrocution risks. By monitoring the flow of currents and swiftly interrupting any deviations, GFCI devices prevent lethal levels of electricity from reaching consumers.

Gulf Coast Electric prioritizes the installation and maintenance of GFCI systems, providing peace of mind for homeowners.

Trust our team to navigate the complexities of code compliance and keep your home’s specialty wiring systems safe and reliable. With our expertise and dedication to safety, you can enjoy your outdoor amenities with confidence.

Trust Gulf Coast Electric With Your Specialty Wiring

At Gulf Coast Electric, we specialize in delivering worry-free electrical services, allowing you to enjoy summer fun without the stress of electrical challenges. Schedule your appointment today and embark on a journey to safe and reliable electricity with our team by your side. Contact us to book your next service!

Keep Your Household Safe From Electrical Hazards

Here in Destin, electrical fires pose a significant threat to our homes. Whether due to faulty wiring, overloaded circuits or aging appliances, these incidents are more common than we’d like. Extinguishing an electrical fire can be as simple as using baking soda, but how do you know when that’s the best course of action?

At Gulf Coast Electric, our mission is to ensure the safety of our community. In the unfortunate event of an electrical fire, knowing how to respond is crucial. Read on for valuable insights on handling an electrical fire in your Destin home.

Can A Short Circuit Cause A Fire?

Yes, a short circuit can potentially cause a fire. When an electrical circuit experiences a short circuit, an unintended path with low resistance is created, allowing a large current to flow. This increased current can lead to overheating and the ignition of surrounding materials — such as insulation or combustible components in electrical devices.

The intense heat generated during a short circuit can trigger fires, posing significant safety risks. Proper electrical installations, regular maintenance and the use of appropriate safety measures help protect against short circuits and reduce the associated fire hazards.

Emergency Response: Disconnecting Power Safely

If an electrical fire breaks out in your home, find the source of power and immediately shut it off — if doing so does not put you in harm’s way. Otherwise, shut off the electricity in your home to prevent the fire from spreading. Once again, only try to shut off power if it’s safe to do so.

Finding the source of the fire and stopping it will protect you from electrocution and further damage.

Fire Size Matters: Small Fire Extinguishing Tips

If the fire is small, you can use baking soda to extinguish it. The sodium bicarbonate in the baking soda — which is a chemical also found in Class C fire extinguishers — will put out the fire. You can also put a fire blanket or a heavy piece of clothing over the flames to deprive it of oxygen. Smothering the flames is one of the best ways to put out an electrical fire.

In the heat of the moment, you may wonder if you can use water on an electrical fire. In these situations, never reach for water! This could electrocute and shock you, as well as make the fire spread more quickly. If you can, use a fire extinguisher that is labeled Class C, which is specific to electrical fires.

Safety First: Evacuation Procedures

If you’re still unable to extinguish the fire, get out of the house and call 911. Help all residents and pets exit the home as you leave if you’re able to safely reach them. Make sure you have two or more pathways to ensure a safe exit and remain a distance away from the fire in case of an explosion.

Once outside, close the door behind you to contain the fire and prevent further spread and damage beyond the house. Do not attempt to go back into the house until the fire department has stated it’s safe to do so.

Prioritize Safety With Gulf Coast Electric

Safeguarding your home from electrical fires requires proactive measures and awareness. By following the safety tips outlined above and being cautious in emergency situations, you can minimize risks.

For comprehensive electrical services and peace of mind, consider reaching out to Gulf Coast Electric. Our experts can provide inspections and maintenance for your electrical system. Don’t compromise on safety — make the call today to prioritize the well-being of your home and family.

Understand Why Your Outlet Is Sparking

Electricity keeps our homes safe and comfortable, but it isn’t without its dangers. You’ve likely seen occasional plug sparks when something gets plugged into an outlet. A sparking outlet isn’t always a sign of serious problems, but with home electrical fires accounting for nearly 500 deaths each year, it’s better to err on the side of caution.

Gulf Coast Electric places safety first when it comes to our emergency electrical repair services. We want our customers to remember that no spark is worth overlooking, no matter how small. Check out these three reasons your electrical outlets may be sparking so you can make sure your home and family are safe.

1. Short Circuits Can Lead To Sparks

A short circuit is an abnormal circuit that a current flows through with little resistance. It results from the contact of components, or nodes, where the resistance is normally much greater. Some potential causes of short circuits are damaged wiring and faulty electrical parts. In addition to sparks, these might produce a burning smell, cause flickering lights or trip your circuit breaker.

Short circuits are dangerous because a circuit with low resistance can easily overheat and melt the insulation covering the wires. This can damage your appliances, but that’s far from the worst possibility.

When an electrical connection is made with the outlet, exposed wires can cause a spark which might result in a fire. Being so hazardous, a short circuit needs to be handled by a professional electric company like Gulf Coast Electric to ensure it’s properly taken care of.

2. Water Creates Electrical Problems

Not a lot of good can come from mixing water and electricity. If your outlet comes in contact with water, you may encounter a number of electrical problems — including sparks. Even something as small as a spill or water leak can trigger it.

To prevent your outlet from sparking if it comes in contact with water, you can have a ground fault circuit interrupter installed. This device monitors circuits and will detect any imbalance caused by an unintended current path.

A ground fault circuit interrupter will cut the power to an electrical outlet if water is detected, which can help prevent a disaster. These interrupters can make moisture-heavy areas much safer from electric sparks and the problems they cause.

3. Power Can Cause Outlets To Spark

Sometimes you don’t have to worry about sparks. A home’s electricity works by running through all available circuits and then back out to the main electrical grid, all without any interruptions. When we plug something in or turn something on, the electricity rapidly diverts to the outlet in use and causes a quick spark.

This kind of spark is comparable to a spark from static electricity and shouldn’t be worried about. If you’re concerned that the spark is caused by a bigger issue, call Gulf Coast Electric so our team can take care of it for you.

Know Your Sparks

With how many ways electrical sparks can appear around your home, how can you tell the safe ones from the dangerous? The wisest approach is to treat every spark with caution and turn to the professionals when necessary.

Even so, with a good amount of knowledge, you can be more prepared to identify these diverse sparks.

Small Sparks

The least dangerous sparks coming from wall outlets are usually blue-colored, small and very quick. You might see these when plugging something in.

Though individual sparks of this kind aren’t always concerning, if repetitive, they could suggest a larger, more dangerous problem. Call Gulf Coast Electric to assess the problem and ensure your safety.

Hazardous Sparks

An orange spark when you’re plugging something in can be life-threatening. In fact, yellow, orange and red sparks are all more dangerous and are suggestive of bigger issues. Water damage, dying circuits and broken outlets are just some of the possible causes.

These kinds of sparks can quickly cause electrical fires, so they should be treated with appropriate caution. Tampering with electrical systems yourself can be fatal, so once again, bring in the professionals to get the job done safely and efficiently.

Protect Yourself From Electrical Sparks

Because they can appear for various reasons, giving sudden outlet sparks proper attention is how you can best ensure your safety. It’s imperative that homeowners take proper steps to protect themselves and their homes from electrical hazards.

An important step to take is contacting a professional when you notice a problem. However, you can also use the following proactive strategies to maximize safety and reduce the risk of problems with your plugs:

• Avoid overloading your outlets and try to distribute your devices, as overloading can cause overheating and eventually sparks.

• Routinely check your outlets, wires and cords for signs of wear and tear.

• Turn off electronic appliances when not in use, which will also help to conserve energy.

• Try to keep flammable materials away from outlets — this can include curtains, furniture, paper and any flammable liquid.

• If you have children at home, tamper-resistant (TR) outlets can prevent them from inserting things they aren’t supposed to into the outlets.

The most effective way to safeguard your home if you’re experiencing electrical sparks is to reach out to Gulf Coast Electric. Our expert electricians will help ensure your home is protected from electrical hazards.

Plug Into Superior Service

Electricity is a helpful asset we tend to rely upon, but it can also be a hazard. While sparking might be the byproduct of regular power changes, it can also be a sign of something more serious. If your outlets are coming into contact with water or are short-circuiting, you may be at risk for an electrical fire.

To keep your home safe, make sure only a trained professional works on your home’s electricity. Gulf Coast Electric is always here to help, so don’t hesitate to call today!

Commercial Electrical Needs

When it comes to electrical work, the distinction between residential and commercial needs is often blurred. Many assume that an electrician skilled in residential services can seamlessly transition to these business tasks.

However, the demands of a building are different and more complex than those of a home. This is where the expertise of a qualified electrician becomes crucial. Gulf Coast Electric, based in Destin, FL, emphasizes the importance of hiring a commercial electrician for your business needs.

The Complexity Of Commercial Electrical Systems

Commercial electrical systems are not just larger versions of residential systems. They are fundamentally different in design, capacity and complexity.

Understanding these differences is essential. The intricacies involved in this work demand a high level of expertise and precision. These are factors that only a trained commercial electrician can provide.

Specialized Knowledge And Equipment

Buildings typically have more complex electrical systems than residential properties. These systems require specialized knowledge and equipment that only a commercial electrician possesses. The wiring systems, circuitry and materials used in these buildings are different and more robust, designed to handle higher electricity loads.

Adherence To Codes And Standards

Commercial electricians are well-versed in the legal codes and standards that apply to these buildings. These regulations are often more demanding than those for residential properties.

Hiring these electricians ensures that all electrical work in your building is up to code. This prevents potential legal issues and ensures the safety of its occupants.

The Role Of A Commercial Electrician In Maintenance And Repairs

The role of this type of electrician extends beyond installations and repairs. They are pivotal in ensuring that buildings remain safe, functional and efficient. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can reduce the risk of electrical failures. They will also enhance the longevity of the system.

When it comes to electricity repair in a building, the stakes are high. Faulty work can lead to significant downtime, impacting business operations. A commercial electrician has the expertise to diagnose and repair complex issues swiftly. This capability reduces any disruption to your establishment.

Your Trusted Commercial Electrician In Destin, FL

Gulf Coast Electric has a team of skilled electricians who understand the unique needs of businesses in Destin, FL. Our professionals are equipped to handle a wide range of electrical services, from routine maintenance to complex installations and repairs. Here’s why you should choose Gulf Coast Electric for your business:

• Experienced Professionals — Our team comprises experienced commercial electricians familiar with the latest technologies and industry standards.

• Customized Solutions — We understand that every building is unique. Our electricians provide customized solutions tailored to your specific needs.

• Safety and Compliance — We prioritize safety and ensure that all our work complies with local and national codes.

When you entrust our team with your establishment, you can expect these advantages during every single service.

The Importance Of Hiring A Commercial Electrician

The electrical needs of a building are distinct. Hiring the correct electrician is not just a matter of convenience. It’s also a necessity for the safety and compliance of your establishment!

Gulf Coast Electric in Destin, FL, strives to provide top-notch commercial electrical services. Whether it’s routine maintenance, repair or thorough installations, our team of expert electricians is here to ensure that your building’s electrical system is in the best hands. Contact us today to schedule your next service!

Electrical Upgrades That Boost Your Home’s Efficiency

When it comes to technology, there is always a new product model to replace the old one. However, an electrical upgrade for your home is one of the best long-term investments. Updating your appliances can make your life easier, safer and more specialized to your needs!

At Gulf Coast Electric, our team of Destin electricians provides residential electrical services that cater to your home. Read on to learn which of your devices you should upgrade for maximum efficiency!

1. Electrical Panels

While it may look like a simple box, your electrical panel connects the wiring inside your house to outdoor wires and provides electricity to your home. Though it often sits forgotten within your home, you may find yourself visiting your panel more as it ages.

Many older houses have fuse boxes or other outdated devices that weren’t built for the electricity required for modern life. When they are unable to handle the electricity load, these panels can damage your appliances or even start a fire.

Investing in a new appliance is a great way to make sure your house has the power you need without hazards. Buying a more efficient panel can brighten up your entire home!

2. Inefficient Outlets

The rise of modern technology has increased the need for more outlets in many households. Unfortunately, availability isn’t the only problem with older electrical receptacles. Worn-out outlets can stop working with time and may even cause a house fire. Some signs you need an upgrade include:

• Your plugs start to slip out.

• The wall covering is discolored.

• The covering is hot to the touch.

Investing in new outlets can solve a variety of problems. Four outlet systems allow you to power more devices at once, and some even have USB ports that can charge your phone when other devices are plugged in. A new model provides a power-up for each of your electronics!

3. Outdated Wiring

Another component that may need your attention is your house’s wiring. Old wiring is often made of aluminum, a metal that can easily compress and create a safety hazard. Even if you can’t see these wires, they can still generate power surges, electrical shocks and fires.

Luckily, new wires are made of copper, a much safer material. Switching to copper wiring will give your house the same conduction strength without the added worry!

4. Surge Protectors

With newer, faster electronics, your house requires more energy than ever. When you plug in a large appliance, your system may receive more power than it can handle. Power surges can fry any electronic that you have plugged in.

Surge protection systems moderate the amount of energy that each of your devices receives, ensuring that none of them get more than they can handle. Even if you have many different appliances, upgrading this singular electronic can make sure all of them are taken care of!

5. Light Switches

Light switches serve an obvious purpose: turning the lights off and on. However, newer models can do much more! Dimmer switches can regulate the amount of light each room receives, helping you create a unique ambiance. If you want to make your next get-together warm and cozy without touching the fireplace, investing in a dimmer is the way to go.

When you’ve lived in your house for years, it can be nerve-wracking to make big changes. By upgrading your appliances, you can keep your home just how you like it without compromising its electrical reliability.

Plug-In To Superior Service With Our Destin Electricians

Gulf Coast Electric can keep your home as bright as the Destin sun. Our top-rated residential electrical services ensure expert advice and quality results. Contact us today for an unforgettable home upgrade!

With many people working remotely, our electricity use at home has gone up, potentially straining our outlets. It’s essential to know the dangers of overloading an outlet and how to prevent or correct them. Gulf Coast Electric is the trusted electrical company in Destin that cares about your safety and satisfaction.

As we rely more on our home’s electrical systems, being aware of proper safety practices is paramount. Overloading an outlet can have severe consequences, including the risk of a house fire. To prevent these dangers, it’s crucial to recognize the signs of an overloaded circuit and take appropriate action.

Signs Of Overloading An Electrical Outlet

It’s crucial to practice electrical safety precautions in your home. Making sure to watch for signs of overloading can prevent hazardous accidents and keep your house safe!

Flickering Lights

If you notice your lights frequently flickering, dimming or blinking, this is a clear indicator that the outlet may be overloaded. Flickering lights can feel annoying, but they are also a warning sign that something is amiss with your system.

Breaker Malfunction

When multiple appliances in a specific area simultaneously lose power, your breaker may have tripped. You can reset it by turning it off and then on again. If this happens frequently, your circuit is likely overloaded. Breakers are designed to protect your system from overheating, but they can only handle a specific electrical load.

If your outlet appears damaged or deformed, it may indicate a more significant issue. In such cases, refrain from resetting the breaker and reach out to an expert for assistance.

Unusual Sounds

A quiet clicking or buzzing sound from your lights or appliances while in use can signal an overloaded circuit. If you hear these sounds, it’s a reminder to call a professional for an electrical inspection. Strange sounds are often an early warning sign of impending electricity issues.

Electric Shock

Feeling a slight shock when plugging something into an outlet is a significant sign of an overloaded circuit. You should never experience a shocking feeling when using an outlet. This is a serious safety hazard and should be addressed immediately.

Burning Odor

A faint burning odor emanating from an outlet is a warning sign of an overloaded circuit. If the smell persists after moving appliances or unplugging them, a professional electrician should assess the problem. A burning smell is a sign that something is overheating, and it’s essential to find the source quickly.

Prevent Overloads By Scheduling Electrical Services

To keep your home’s system safe and working properly, it’s important to hire professionals to prevent overloads. Electricians can inspect and discover hazards and offer solutions to safeguard your home. We can also upgrade electrical panels for modern appliances.

In Destin, Gulf Coast Electric is the most trusted electrical company. We offer many services to keep your home safe, including emergency repairs. This helps prevent risks from overloads. When you hire our professionals for your electricity needs, you can feel confident that your system is safe and efficient.

The Best Electrical Company In Destin

For electrical safety and overloaded circuits, Gulf Coast Electric in Destin is here to help. Our team of experts is here to handle your electricity problems, guarding your space from electricity hazards. Contact our professionals to keep your home safe and your system running well.

Ever asked yourself whether you need a backup generator? For homeowners living near Florida’s Gulf Coast, they are the perfect way to equip your home for anything that may happen during hurricanes, tornadoes and even thunderstorms.

Helping Destin residents “Plug In To Superior Service” since 1980, our team at Gulf Coast Electric knows that it’s always a great idea to have a backup generator installed on your property in case you lose power. If you’re still debating on getting one, or weighing your options to see if it’s worth it, here are a few benefits of investing in your very own power unit.

Comfort and Safety

Living by the Gulf Coast and surrounding areas can be very risky as you can never be too sure when a strong storm will develop on the horizon. It’s always great to be prepared before disaster strikes. Having a backup generator ready to go ensures that you and your family won’t be left in the dark during the next storm!

Quick Electrical Power, 24/7

As soon as the lights go out, whether it’s due to a thunderstorm or some sort of blackout, most people’s first instinct is to panic.

With a backup generator by your side, you won’t even get the chance to have “panic” cross your mind. As soon as your unit realizes your home’s power has been shut off the generator automatically powers on! Who wouldn’t want something as efficient as that?

Food Safety

Another big green flag when it comes to backup generators is that they ensure no food goes to waste. How? Well, once the power goes out in your house, everything powered by electricity is affected — this also includes the fridge.

It would be a shame to see so much food go to waste when the power shuts down. Although we rarely know when electricity will turn back on during an outage, which could last minutes or even days, you wouldn’t need to worry with a backup generator on hand to keep your refrigerator running in no time.

How Are Generators Powered?

With these generators, a common question people ask is about what fuels they use. For the most part, they are powered by two fuel types.

Natural Gas And Propane

Choosing which fuel you prefer your unit to use is up to you. Most people choose systems powered by natural gas and propane as they are safer. It is not only colorless, but it’s also non-toxic and has a distinctive smell added to it for easy detection.

If for some reason you suspect natural gas is seeping into your home, you can easily notice it and should schedule an appointment to have the leak inspected ASAP.

Gasoline And Diesel

Generators powered by gasoline and diesel are also great options, but they do have some downsides. Since they’re powered with gasoline, you would need a separate fuel tank installed as well. And while gas prices can be unpredictable, when their demand skyrockets, it can be difficult for you to acquire.

Award-Winning Destin Electrical Services

Gulf Coast Electric may be located closer to Destin, but our Destin electricians are more than happy to help those in the surrounding areas as well. If you want to know if you’re included in our service areas, don’t hesitate to give us a call today! Schedule an appointment and experience our award-winning electrical services firsthand.

If you’re looking for ways to increase your home’s safety, GFCI outlets are great additions to your list of improvements. GFCI outlets, or ground fault circuit interrupter outlets, reduce the risk of electrocution and other electrical damage in your home. They can easily be added to any part of your home. But they are also required in specific areas of your home.

Our specialists at Gulf Coast Electric want to share some electrical safety tips for our clients interested in any GFCI outlet installations.

How Do They Work?

A GFCI outlet dramatically reduces the chances of getting electrocuted in your home. These kinds of outlets have sensors that monitor the electrical flow in your outlet’s wires. Specifically, it will sense for ground faults — when an electrical current escapes a damaged cord and goes through the insulated wires.

Ground faults can cause a dangerous electric shock to homeowners. With the help of a GFCI outlet, it will shut off the electricity with an internal switch before serious harm can be done.

These kinds of outlets will look different compared to your standard electrical outlet. Along with the prong plug-in slots, GFCI outlets come with a “TEST” and a “RESET” button. This is so you can turn the power back on to a tripped outlet. GFCI outlets help reduce severe electrical injuries to homeowners and their families.

Where Should They Be Installed?

By law, there are specific places in your home where you need a GFCI outlet installation. These places are:

• Home exteriors
• Crawl spaces
• Wet bars
• Bathrooms
• Garages
• Every kitchen outlet next to a countertop
• Basements
• Electrically-heated floors

The main reason these areas need extra protection is that they have water sources nearby. Outlets near sinks, showers and other plumbing are more likely to trigger electrical surges because water is an excellent conductor of electricity. You may still find standard outlets in your bedroom, but you should always have GFCI outlets in high-risk areas.

How Should I Care For Them?

Luckily, you won’t need a lot of maintenance for GFCI outlets. You can check once a month to make sure they are functioning properly by pressing the test button on the outlet. Your outlet can trip accidentally from nearby lightning or static electricity.

If your outlet trips too frequently or doesn’t turn back on, it may need to be replaced.

Can I Do My Own GFCI Installation?

Homeowners with electrical experience can replace a worn-out GFCI outlet with the right equipment. But for a full installation or additional help with a replacement, you should leave it to the professionals. Each outlet has its own kind of wiring and it can be complicated to rewire your outlets. A licensed electrician has an easier time navigating these outlets and can complete your installation without those complications.

Our team at Gulf Coast Electric would love to be part of your home improvement process. We can send out a Destin professional electrician to let you know where would be the best places for GFCI outlets. Practice electrical safety in your home and contact us for a consultation today!

If your electric meter breaks, it is most commonly up to the utility company that installed it to fix it immediately. This has very few exceptions, and utility companies will quickly send a technician out to diagnose and repair any electric meter issue you may have. Here at Gulf Coast Electric in Destin, Florida, we believe in education about your most essential home services.

Responsibility for Electrical Meter Repair

Utility companies are largely responsible for your electric meter for many good reasons. Because these companies often install the meters, they will be responsible for how they function after the fact. The company is also responsible for performing regular readings to ensure that electricity is appropriately measured. They will perform any necessary repairs.

The Big Exception: Tampering

While the utility company is responsible for your meter’s well-being, there is a big exception. Sometimes, individuals will try to tamper with their meter to attain a better reading before billing takes place. Not only is this not recommended as you can severely damage the meter, but utility companies aren’t responsible for the damage you cause if you try to tamper with the meter. 

The most apparent sign of tampering is cut wires and outside physical damage to the meter. It will ensure the meter is stuck at a particular reading, meaning you won’t be charged fully during the next billing cycle. This is highly illegal and noticeable.

Common Problems With Your Electric Meter

If you think that your electric meter is broken, four types of damage may be to blame:

Mechanical 

Mechanical issues are one of the most common problems that electrical meters face and are easily one of the most noticeable. It can be caused by any external interference, which can include:

• – Weather
• – Tree branches
• – Blunt force
• – Damage to the surrounding area

Easy ways to tell if there’s mechanical damage is to look for broken dials, broken gears or damage around the area. Tell your technician if mechanical damage was done directly to your unit and has affected your billing process. 

Electrical

Electrical damage is less common than mechanical, but it can cause long-term issues with your electric meter. These can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• – Electrical surges
• – Faults
• – Overloading
• – Corrosion

Electrical repairs tend to be more intensive and complicated, meaning it can take longer. However, electrical damage has ginormous implications on measuring your electricity, which can lead to false highs and lows. 

Wear And Tear

Wear and tear can be defined as damage caused by time instead of external factors. This is common in all home services, and your electrical meter is no exception. Noticing signs of wear and tear can be hard to see from the outside, with its most significant indicator being inaccuracy in reading electrical output. The types of damage that you may see with wear and tear are:

• – Corrosion
• – Debris accumulation
• – Physical wear
• – Electrical wear

All of which can contribute to the inaccuracy that you will face. Wear and tear can be solved by installing a new meter, or at the very least implementing new parts. There are plenty of ways to perform maintenance to slow down wear and tear, but the only way to eliminate it is with a new unit.

Call Today For An Amazing Destin Electrician!

In addition to problems with your electric meter, there are a variety of other electrical issues that you may notice in your Destin residence. Here at Gulf Coast Electric, we know how urgent electrical repairs can be! That’s why you can count on us to provide reliable work.

Servicing the Destin and Panama City areas, we even offer 24/7 emergency services so no one is left behind. Call today to schedule a consultation that will ensure accuracy and quality.

Your electronics distribute out a lot of energy while you’re using them which is why they heat up so fast. Did you know that your electronics can overheat, causing them to break down completely? A surge protector has your back, though, and it can help you avoid the expense of replacing the products that you enjoy using.

Are you a homeowner who needs surge protection or breaker installation? If so, Gulf Coast Electric is here for you! We have professional Destin electricians that know how to help keep your electronics from overheating. We’ll also be happy to provide you with knowledge on power outlet safety and electric safety tips! Most importantly, we want to help keep you and your home safe from electrical damage and fires!

Why Are My Electronics Overheating?

There can be more than one reason why your electronics are producing too much heat. Many electronics, such as gaming systems, computers and DVD players rely on fans that help regulate heat. If the fans aren’t working properly, it can lead the product to overheat easily.

And another cause could be if the air vents are blocked, heat will fill up the unit and cause the temperature to soar. With this being said, you should always pay attention to the noise of your electronics and see if they sound different than usual. If your electronics continue to overheat and trip your breakers, call us out to your home. Our technicians can provide you with the professional help you need!

The Importance Of Using A Surge Protector

Surge protectors are important to have inside your home in order to keep your power outlets from overheating and causing a fire. These protectors also help prevent you from having to replace your electronics if they do end up getting hot while plugged into an outlet. At Gulf Coast Electric, we have well-trained electricians that can install a surge protector inside your home to keep your home’s electrical system running safely and efficiently.

Dangers Of A Hot Power Outlet

If you notice a hot outlet inside your home it must get immediate attention. Hot outlets can be caused by the following:

• Damaged wiring
• Corrosion
• Loose connections
• Moisture
• Faulty electrical installation
• Overloaded outlet

The first thing you need to do if you experience a hot outlet is to unplug the electronics right away and reset your breaker if it’s tripped. Tripping breakers are essential because they help prevent your wiring from overheating and causing a fire inside your home. If your breaker continues to trip, stop resetting your panel and call the professionals on our team. At Gulf Coast Electric, we want you to avoid fire hazards that could occur in your home. Making sure your power outlets aren’t overheating is important!

Rely On Gulf Coast Electric Services Today!

If you’re a homeowner and you need help protecting your electronics and electrical system, call us today! We offer 24-hour emergency services for our Destin customers. Our professional, certified electricians are here to prevent your electronics from overheating by checking on your power outlets and so much more! And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our specialists over the phone. We are here for you and we put our customers first!