Dan House Electric Blog

We’re Famous! :) Check out the article about us featured in Solar Pro Magazine

admin — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:40:19 +0000

Around this time last year, we completed solar photovoltaic work on a project for one of our wonderful customers, Chris Morrison – Planet Green Solutions.

Click on the link below to view our featured article in SolarPro Magazine!

CLICK HERE: 2012 Dan House Electric – Featured Article in Solar Pro Magazine

Why you should service your generator at least twice a year.

admin — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 15:55:38 +0000

Hurricane, Earthquakes and Generators?

Why you should service your generator at least twice a year.

It’s that time of year again and I really don’t know what to expect. Is it possible we will esape yet again the fierce forces of mother nature ore will we get blasted. Whatever the case if you have a generator I thought I would share a few tips to be ready for the weekend thunder boomer or the big one.

One of the biggest reasons that generators fail to start when you need them is neglect. The easiest parallel that i can draw is your car. Who would think of leaving their car untouched for six months and expect to sit down and go on a trip. As drastic as that sounds most of us do just that to our generators. Here are a couple simple steps that could save you a lot of hassle and maybe even a repair.

1.) Exercise your generator at least every other week. This is automatic on larger units and only takes about 15 minutes in smaller manual ones. The benefits are numerous here are just a few.

- The carburetor will stay clean and lubricated
- Problems will be evident before you need the unit for use
- Gas will be used allowing fresh to be added (Very important even if you use preservative)
- Drives the moisture, bugs and dust out of the windings and keep everything moving freely
- Keeps the commutator (if it has one) clean and free from oxidation

2.) Change your oil. This should go without saying but many people think that if the oil is not dirty it is still good.
- While this is principally true changing the oil allows you to remove any condensation or water buildup from the inside of the crankcase
- Ensures that you are ready for an extended run when the time comes.

Note: Always run the generator to warm the oil before you change it.

3.) Run it under load occasionally. You wouldn’t believe the number of generators we receive to repair that run great but just don’t make power. Make sure you are not stuck when you needs it. Testing with a simple household appliance like a shop vac or floor heater is a great way to make sure you are ready.

A couple final Notes:
- If you have a LP or Natural Gas unit keep up with your fueling program. No gas means no Power:(
- NEVER!!!!!NEVER!!!!!NEVER!!!!! run your generator while it is inside your garage or carport. Carbon monoxide is deadly and has claimed lives in the most innocent situations.
- G.F.C.I. devices on portables must be tested before each use and as instructed on the label afterward.

If any of this doesn’t seem to make sense or just does not sound like something you want to do, give us a call. We would be glad to help!

Now when the power goes out you can “relax you have it covered.”

Hidden Dangers in Your Home: Your Electrical Panel

admin — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 19:30:21 +0000

What’s that smell? My pulse races as I detect a faint hint of an electrical burning smell! It may just be the toaster or heater or… it may be something far worse. Your electric panel, like any other mechanical device, has an expected life. Since we rarely have problems with our panel, seldom do we think about it or the necessary maintenance that should be done to maximize the life and efficiency of this unit. Over time the natural humidity and corrosive agents abounding in the very air we breathe can affect the equipment we depend upon to provide us with reliable and safe power. The result can be costly and potentially disastrous. What few people realize is that regular maintenance and inspection can identify problems and extend the useable life of your panel. A qualified electrician can quickly assesses the condition of your electrical system and put your mind at ease about your safety.

I hope that you enjoyed this quick tip to protect your property and the ones you love. This service and many more are available from our unmatched lineup of qualified technicians. Please feel free to contact us today, by calling (352) 465-1244.

Hidden Dangers in Your Home: Test Your Smoke Detectors!

admin — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 15:07:28 +0000

Ever noticed that little red or green light up close to the ceiling in your bedroom? If not you may be on the track of discovering danger number two. Failed or missing smoke detectors! That’s right. The NFPA has suggested time and time again the importance of proper placement of smoke detectors in a residential setting as well as proper maintenance. Just like the GFCI listed above there are maintenance and testing requirements for smoke detectors as well. One of the most important things you can do is test and replace your batteries at least twice a year. Many agencies suggest doing this each time you adjust your clocks for daylight saving time. No matter when you do it make sure to test the units per the manufacturer instructions to ensure reliable operation.

Hidden Dangers in Your Home: Ground Fault Protectors

admin — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 18:23:51 +0000

Have you ever wondered about those little buttons that are on the outlets in your bathroom kitchen or garage? These little wonders, called Ground Fault Protectors, are your first line of defense against electric shock or electrocution. Unknown to many the older models often fail in a dangerous condition. Whitepapers suggest failure rates exceeding 80% in some cases. This places you and those you love in danger on a daily basis. A quick and thorough inspection of your home by a qualified professional can easily identify the location, number, and function of these gems and provide you with peace of mind. Beyond that remember that every electronic safety device has some type of testing requirement, usually monthly, that must be performed. A few quick tests once a month could significantly reduce the likelihood of an accident.