A burnout, in electrical terms, is a drop in voltage across an electricity supply system. It can be spontaneous (unintentional) caused by disturbances in the grid, or intentionally caused during emergencies when the load needs to be reduced in order to prevent blackouts. The lower voltage causes lights to dim, leading to the name “burn out”.

Spontaneous burnouts usually cause voltage to drop for only a short period, while the intentional ones can have effects lasting anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours.

A burnout can prevent some electrical devices from getting harmed by power loads, but others can actually get damaged severely. Here are some facts that you should be aware of:

We’ve certainly been on an electrical safety kick lately here at Kolb Electric. But hey, it’s for good reason! With summer weather on the rise, activity levels are at an all time high. This means more use of electrical appliances, more parties, and more traffic. Is your home safe from common causes for electrical fire? Let’s find out!

The certified electricians at Kolb have handled their fair share of dangerous situations with regards to electrical fire. When it comes to safety, there’s no better teacher!

Maryland boasts a rich, diverse population with loads of historic value and modern innovation. But some of these combinations can result in some pretty dangerous situations:

So let’s turn this list of five into a single statement. Keep your home updated! With adequate, modern, and grounded outlets you shouldn’t need excessive cords, or to use outdated tools. Looking for the upgrades and updates you need for your Maryland home? Contact Kolb today!

Showing some love to your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day is a beautiful thing. Are you also showing that love to the electronics that keep things running smoothly in your home year-round? Much like your honey, ignoring those electronics for any length of time without giving them a little much-needed TLC could leave you in the doghouse.

Or your 2-year-old… Or your morning coffee… Or your dog. Your electronic devices need to be protected. Are they properly cased and safely stored?

Cleaning your electronics immediately is essential after unwanted exposures to items of all sorts, from your daily cola, food crumbs, dirt and grime, to a hosing from an over-friendly pet, and more. Don’t just grab a wet paper towel. Make certain to use compatible cleaning solutions and rags by making a worthwhile investment in specialized cleaning sets available for each of your sensitive devices. Here are some tips for properly cleaning and maintaining your electronic devices:

Recycle unnecessary or extraneous cords and chargers. Properly organize wires leading to electronics like televisions and DVD players, which are dust bunny magnets courtesy of static electricity. Untangle wires and straighten them together with zip ties to allow for easier cleaning and vacuuming without dislodging connections.

Opt for additional insurance or available protection plans that cover the parts and labor necessary to resurrect expensive devices.

Remove batteries from items you don’t use often to prevent damage from corrosion. Keep batteries on hand for items like remotes (which should also be cleaned) and store chargers carefully. Consider the addition of a professionally designed and installed charging station for the safety of sensitive portable electronics and to drastically cut the clutter.

Today’s expensive electronics and appliances are more sensitive to power spikes and surges than their predecessors. Keep them protected with whole house and point-of-use surge protection. The cost of replacing a single item destroyed by a surge will often cover your investment. Losing a single large home appliance will cost you double the investment of professionally installed surge protection from Mr. Electric®.

Ready to show the love? Contact Mr. Electric today.