As a rule, the bottom of any hanging light should be at least 6’8″ off the ground – unless it’s over a table or island. When you have an 8′ ceiling, this doesn’t give you a whole lot of room to play. If you long for the grand impact of a decorative

A room with a single light fixture is depressing. Kick the shadows by adding multiple light sources. A few stylish flush-mount ceiling lights. Some table lamps. An accent light here or there. When you have multiple lights shining in different directions, the space will feel lighter and more open. Make sure to place ceiling lights at least 3′ from the wall, any closer and harsh shadows will make your ceiling seem lower. 

The average household in Virginia pays $125 per month for electricity, according to the U.S. Energy Information Association. In Maryland, that number is $136 per month and in DC, it’s around $90. For commercial properties, the figure is even higher. But at Kolb Electric, we know that there are simple steps you can take to lower your electric bill—and we’re going to share a few key tips.

1. Check for gaps in windows and doors. Perhaps the easiest thing you can do to reduce your energy usage, and thus your electric bill, is to check your home at the beginning of each season for gaps around the windows and doors. It’s important to do this every six months or so, since your home can settle and shift slightly over time. It only takes a small gap for energy to escape.

2. Turn down your water heater. The standard setting on most electric water heaters is 140 degrees. Turning the heat down to 120 degrees can save you $60 or more each year in water heating costs. Save more by replacing your water tank with a tankless system.

3. Repair leaky ducts. If your ducts have holes in them or if they have come partially unattached, then you’re paying to cool and heat air that is never getting to your living spaces.

4. Have your HVAC and electrical systems serviced annually. Keeping all electrical systems, as well as HVAC products, well-maintained can not only extend their lifespans and help ensure your safety, but can save you money on your electric (and gas) bill too. Your system has to work harder and use more energy to push through an accumulation of dirt and debris. Regular electrical maintenance can also prevent the need for costly repairs.

5. Check your electric meter against your monthly statement. It’s a good idea to get in the habit of checking your electric usage on the meter and comparing it to your statement. This allows you to easily determine whether your monthly energy bill is accurate and provides you with the information you need to monitor your usage so you can use electricity smarter in the future. Click here to learn how to read an electric meter.

At Kolb Electric, we don’t want you to pay any more than necessary for your electric usage. For more tips on how to reduce your electric bill and/or to schedule you annual service appointment today, call us at 877 287-1179. Our licensed electricians have been helping Mid-Atlantic homeowners with their electrical needs since 1925.

With the unseasonably cool temperatures gripping the entire country right now, you are probably considering the purchase of a space heater to help ward off the chill. There are several different kinds of heaters on the market today. As you can imagine, some are better than others. An electrician in Los Angeles is here to explain the most common types of space heaters available. You can call The Electric Connection for more information.

Oil-filled radiators are one of the safer types of space heaters. Oil is heated and rotated through the radiator releasing heat into the room. They are silent due to the lack of a fan. They can heat a small room. Fortunately, they do not get overly hot and will not cause scalding burns if you happen to touch them. However, they produce enough heat that you will want to follow the standard guidelines of keeping the heater at least 3 feet away from walls or furniture.

Ceramic-element heaters are rather small, but produce a great deal of heat. They are typically safer than their counterpart, the coil-based convection heaters. Different fan settings will help control the amount of heat produced. One of these heaters could heat a small room or used at a desk.

Infrared space heaters are new to the market and do cost more, but they are much more energy efficient. They can heat a large room and in some cases an entire home if it is relatively small and well-insulated.

As far as the cost to your Los Angeles electrical bill, space heaters are not as bad as many assume. It will depend on the type of heater you use and how many kilowatts the heater uses. If you are looking to make a long-term investment, the infrared heaters are a good option and will ultimately save you money in the long run with a lower heating bill. If you have more questions about space heaters, give The Electric Connection a call today.