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Electrical

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Electrical must-dos before you sell your home

By | Electrical, Maintenance

When it comes time to sell your home, renovations and major improvements are not always in the budget. However, there are many electrical improvements you can make which won’t break the bank.


If you want to make the maximum dollar, have a look at these handy electrical tips before you sell you home.

 

Install smoke alarms properly

A great way to improve the value of your home is to make sure that home fire safety regulations are strictly followed, and this can be achieved through your smoke alarms. Smoke alarms should be located in the centre of the ceilings. Remember that placing alarms in kitchens ad bathrooms can create false alarms, which can be a significant nuisance. Also, be aware not to install smoke alarms 300mm of a corner of a ceiling or wall; 300mm of a light fitting, 400mm of an air-conditioning vent; or 400mm of the blades of a ceiling fan.

Avoid DIY electrical work

When preparing to sell your home, there is the temptation to watch a few DIY electrical instructional videos or to try and have a go at wiring yourself. This can not only lead to poorly completed electrical jobs but also increase hazards and safety risks. If any electrical work needs carrying out, it is almost always worth hiring a qualified electrician. They can carry out this work safely, efficiently and to a high-quality standard that DIY attempts will not achieve.

Replace old switchgear

A low-cost option for increasing your homes look and feel, is to replace all old, cracked, and discoloured light switches and power points. While it sounds simple, this small change can make a huge difference to the overall aesthetics of your home, potentially making or breaking a sale.

New lighting and light fittings

In areas where people spend a lot of time such as the kitchen, bathroom and living rooms, updating lighting and light fittings can give your home a fresh new look, and never has to cost the earth. For outdoor areas and garages and workshops, it may be worth replacing old Fluro lights for LEDs, and indoors you have a number of appealing, budget-friendly options.

Get a professional electrical inspection

Electrical safety inspections are designed to detect and amend all safety hazards regarding the wiring and electrical appliances in your home. Electrical inspections are a great way to give potential buyers peace of mind about the safety of your home. You can learn more about them here.

If you would like some more tips about electrical safety or would like to know more about installation or maintenance of electrical items, please do not hesitate to give us a call. With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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Electrical safety in your backyard pool

By | Electrical

While Summer has come to an end, our backyard pools still have plenty of use still left in them before Winter comes around. As such, it is essential to practice electrical safety around our pool at all times.


Electrical dangers in and around the pool can result in electric shock, injury and even death. Check out our simple tips to help avoid electrical danger and enjoy your pool.

 

Keep electrical equipment away from the pool

While it might seem obvious, water and electricity can be a recipe for disaster. As such, pool owners must take extreme care when electrical equipment is set up in close proximity to the pool area. Equipment that is not designed to operate in water such as televisions or radios can fall into the pool. As a result, these appliances place a current of electricity into the pool. If you touch a metal pool ladder or metal net handle in the energised water, it can cause a person to be electrocuted. It is a good idea to have at least two metres between the electrical equipment and the edge of the pool, to avoid it falling in and creating extreme safety hazards.

Be cautious of pool lights

Underwater lights in the pool are a great aesthetic and functional addition to your pool. However, should they crack or are defectively sealed, the voltage from the light bulb comes into direct contact with the water, putting electrical energy throughout the body of the water. To minimise the potential danger of the pool lights, conduct regular checks for defects. If there seems to be an issue with the lights or wiring, call a licensed electrician to solve the danger straight away.

Avoid extension cords

Never use extension leads, electrical appliances and cords near the pool. It would only take a splash from inside the pool or someone dripping onto the cord to possibly present an electrical danger. It is always a good idea to opt for battery-operated appliances and equipment instead of objects that require a cord to be plugged in. Minimising and even eliminating the use of cords around the pool area will reduce the risk of accidents occurring that could damage the electrical cord with serious consequences.

Be safe during storms

You should never use the pool during a storm. If lightning were to strike in the water, it produces an electric current which is potentially deadly. Furthermore, if the lightning struck the equipment that keeps the pool wired and running, the risk would be just the same. The safest option is to get out of the water if there is a storm, eliminating the danger of electrocution.

If you have any questions about electrical safety in your home and around your pool or would like to know more about installation or maintenance of electrical items, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.

With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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carbon monoxide

The importance of carbon monoxide detectors

By | Electrical

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a byproduct of burning carbon fuel like the gas on your stove and the petrol in your car. Even small doses of carbon monoxide can cause permanent damage or even in some cases, death.

carbon monoxideAs such, carbon monoxide detectors are important devices which work to detect the presence of CO gas and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep reading to find out more about CO detectors and why you should install them in your home.

 

What are they and how do they work?

Carbon monoxide detectors are the quickest and easiest way to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. They function similarly to a fire or smoke alarm by sounding an alarm when they detect carbon monoxide. Once the alarm sounds, the CO detector must be in a carbon monoxide-free environment to reset itself. Different sensors set off different types of alerts which include:

Biomimetic sensor: a gel changes colour when it absorbs carbon monoxide, which then triggers the alarm.

Metal oxide semiconductor: When the silica chip’s circuitry detects carbon monoxide, it lowers the electrical resistance, and this change triggers the alarm.

Electrochemical sensor: Electrodes immersed in a chemical solution sense changes in electrical currents when they come into contact with carbon monoxide, and this change triggers the alarm.

Where to place carbon monoxide detectors

It essential to have enough carbon monoxide detectors to cover all the levels in your home, including the basement and attic. Place a CO sensor near each bedroom and anywhere required by local laws.

When your detector alarm goes off

If the detector’s alarm is triggered, get outside immediately for fresh air. Check for any flu-like symptoms that could suggest poisoning and if any are observed, call emergency services straight away. If possible, open all doors and windows to air out your home before heading outside and do not reenter your home until the alarm stops sounding or your home has been deemed safe by the authorities. Contact a professional to evaluate all of your fuel-burning appliances and any other possible sources of carbon monoxide to prevent a future incident. Furthermore, it is a good idea to survey your home and prevent safety hazards with regular maintenance and inspections.

If you have any questions about carbon monoxide detectors and electrical safety in your home or would like to know more about installation or maintenance of electrical items, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.

With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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electrical safety in the workplace

Electrical safety in the workplace

By | Electrical

Although electrical safety is important at any given time and at any given place, it should be treated as an utmost priority in the workplace or office.

electrical safety in the workplaceThere are several different aspects of electrical safety that you need to consider in the workplace. Check out our handy guide below.

 

Electrical appliances

Any workplace is a host to all kinds of electrical appliances, such as computers, AC systems and kitchen devices. There are a few things to keep in mind when using electrical appliances:

  • Checking appliances regularly for faults
  • Using electrical instruments how they were designed to be used 
  • Ensuring portable equipment has built-in safety switches
  • Buying electrical equipment with approved markings and in accordance to your workplace type. Any item to be used in a high-risk environment should be tested and labelled as safe in accordance with relevant safety standards before it is used.

Powerpoints

Powerpoints can easily present a number of risks and as such, are an important consideration. Remember that:

  • Powerpoints should never be overcrowded 
  • Appliances should be unplugged rather than yanked out of the powerpoint
  • When plugging in and unplugging appliances, make sure the plug switch is off
  • Report damaged sockets, and label them as unsafe.
  • All sockets should have safety switches and be adequately labelled.

Powerboards and leads

In order to manage risks associated with power boards and extension leads:

  • All power boards should have overload protection and integrated on/off switches
  • Powerboards must be kept well ventilated, clean and above floor level where possible
  • Extension leads should not be a permanent solution for power distribution and should always be laid safely
  • Cords and leads should be in good condition, heavy-duty and checked for faults before use.

Lighting and heating

There is a number of safety precautions which are relevant to heating and lighting in the workplace. They are:

  • Avoiding the use of unsafe halogen lamps
  • Ventilating fluorescent lights to avoid overheating
  • Switching off lights with any damaged wires
  • Never leaving a workplace unattended when lights or heating are in use. 

If you have any questions about electrical safety in your workplace or would like to know more about installation or maintenance of electrical items, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.

With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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keeping your pets safe

Keeping your pets safe from electrical appliances

By | Electrical

In our busy lives, sometimes it is hard to remember to be cautious with the electrical appliances in our home. But if you have pets, it is even more important to be careful.

keeping your pets safeIt goes without saying that electricals can be hazardous to our pets if left unchecked. So what are some measures that responsible pet owners can take to keep them safe from electrical hazards?

 

Be careful with cords

Electrical cords are one of the most obvious hazards to pets and its easy for your cat or dog to confuse dangerous electrical cords for harmless toys. There are a few measures you can take to make sure risk is minimised:
• In cable-dense areas, such as behind a computer, use a cable tie to bunch cords together making them harder to chew.
• Invest in pet-proofing, which comes in the form of long plastic piping that is difficult for pets to chew through.
• Consider choosing higher-quality cables with thicker more durable insulation.
• Some cables come with a non-toxic bitter agent that makes them unpleasant to taste and pet stores sell this formula as a spray that can be applied to discourage pets.

Be conscious of hot appliances

Cats love nothing more than a nap in a warm place, whether that be a sunny window sill or a laptop. It is essential to keep hot electronics away from pets to avoid burns or even electrocution. Make sure that pets don’t rest on top or to close to hot appliances such as oil burners, stoves, computers and hair straighteners.

Be aware of water

 If your pet likes to get up on the kitchen bench or the bathroom sink, it can be easy for them to knock electrical appliances into the water. Make sure you never leave any appliances such as hair driers or electric hand beaters where your pet might knock them into the water. If you must leave them in those places, then ensure that they are unplugged.

Pets and outdoor wires

Ensure outside areas are free from underground wires or cables that your pets might unintentionally dig up. If your dog enjoys digging, then make sure you know what’s in the ground that he might unintentionally dig up. All underground wiring and cabling should be at a depth that your pet won’t find it with his paws.

Check your sockets

Make sure that appliances are fully plugged into sockets, any exposed wiring or faulty cable could cause a shock if nudged by a wet nose. Make sure that all your sockets are in proper working order, with no loose parts so you can be sure that your pet can’t get anywhere near the insides of the socket.

If you have any questions about electrical hazards, or if you’d like ideas to help keep your pets safe please don’t hesitate to give us a call. With over 9 years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing fast and efficient service of the highest quality. If you have any questions regarding electricity in your house or are looking for a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with HunterCON about Power Boards today.

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A guide to smoke detectors

By | Electrical

It is always important to maintain a safe home and protect your family against fire. As such, smoke detectors are a must-have.

Do you know what’s available in smoke detector technology, and have you taken the time to defend your home against fire? Check out our guide to fire detectors below.

 

Types of smoke detectors

When it comes to protecting your home against fir, there are a number of options. Discover how they work to protect you.

Heat detectors: The oldest form of fire-detection device is a heat detector. It functions with a detection element that activates when it reaches a fixed temperature or an extreme increase in temperature occurs. Aside from heat detectors, you have three options when it comes to smoke detectors: ionization, photoelectric, or a combination of the two.

Ionization smoke alarms: These smoke detectors are much more responsive to fast, raging fires and flames. They contain a small amount of radioactive material that passes between two electrically charged plates, which create an ionisation chamber. This configuration ionises the air and creates a current that flows between the plates. If smoke enters that space, it absorbs alpha particles and disturbs the ionisation process, which reduces the current and activates the alarm.

Photoelectric smoke alarms: These types of detectors typically respond better to smouldering fires. Photoelectric alarms work using a photoelectric sensor and a light source. As smoke enters the chamber and crosses the path of the light beam, light is scattered by the smoke particles, aiming it toward the sensor, which in turn triggers the alarm.

Smoke detector placement

Once you know what you need in terms of smoke detector technology, how do you determine how many detectors you need and where to place them? It is recommended that a combination of different sensors are used, and they should be installed:

  • inside every bedroom,
  • outside each sleeping area, and
  • on each level of the home.

Through combining various types of detectors and ensuring they are plenty installed in your home, you can rest easy knowing your home is as safe and protected as can be.

If you need advice or have any questions regarding smoke detector types and installation, or are looking for a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with HunterCON today.

With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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4 Tips Good Electrician

The importance of electrical safety inspections

By | Electrical

While most of us know that an electrical safety inspection is required before purchasing a property, many homeowners are unaware of the importance of regular and ongoing inspections.
4 Tips Good Electrician

So, what does an electrical safety inspection involve, who can perform them, and when should you get one done in your home? Read on to find out.

 

What is an electrical safety inspection?

Electrical safety inspections are designed to detect and amend all safety hazards regarding the wiring and electrical appliances in your home. Because of various electrical-related injuries, 300 Australians go to the hospital on average annually, and approximately 15 people die. As such, it is essential that electrical safety is regularly ensured.

The inspection involves a licensed A-Grade electrician assessing the condition of the electrical systems installed in a home or on business premises. Through this process, the electrician can identify hazards and any electrical safety problems, as per the laid-down regulations, that may pose a danger to the occupants. All the findings will be recorded by the electrician on a checklist, form or report. The checklist or safety report will list down all inspected appliances, outlets and circuits and outline any actions required.

These issues can then be promptly fixed, and you can rest easy knowing your home is safe. On top of identifying urgent fixes, the electrician may also pinpoint items that may need an upgrade in the near future or even recommend how you can improve energy efficiency in your home.

When should you get an electrical safety inspection?

Only the smallest of changes can have a significant impact on the electrical safety of your home or business premises. As such, it is ideal that a yearly inspection is undertaken. However, an urgent inspection may be required if the home was constructed over 25 years ago before it is bought or sold, if wiring is outdated or if the owner is experiencing issues with the wiring or equipment.

At HunterCON, we pride ourselves on our ability to provide reliable, hands-on service that you can count on, no matter the size of the job. From consultation to installation to maintenance, attention to detail and customer satisfaction is at the core of the HunterCON ethos.

With over nine years of experience under our belt, we can ensure your home is as safe as it can possibly be. If you require an electrical safety inspection or have any questions, get in touch with us today.

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Five essential home security devices

By | Electrical

It is always important that you and your family feel safe and secure in your own home, and home security systems can play an essential role in achieving this. When it comes to security, HunterCON offers a number of comprehensive solutions to set your mind at ease.

So what measures can you take to make your home a safer place? Read on to find out. 

 

Alarms

An electronic alarm system involves a low-voltage electrical circuit with sensors on entry doors and windows. When a door or window is opened, its sensor detects the interruption in the flow of electricity and triggers a warning signal such as a siren or light. While most systems will just use lights or sirens to deter and intruder, you may choose a monitored system which also notifies the police of the intrusion.

CCTV

CCTV, (closed-circuit television), is a system that allows you to keep an eye on what is going on, both in and around a building. Cameras and monitors enable you to view events live, and recorders can archive footage for later reference. CCTV has proven to be great in improving the safety of your home, through preventing break-ins, theft and vandalism. There is a huge number of options surrounding CCTV and how it can be installed in your home to suit your goals and needs.

Intercom

An intercom, also known as a talkback or door phone, is a device which can be used to enhance your home’s security with a front-door speaker that allows you to talk with a visitor before opening the door. There are a number of options available, including video intercoms which allow you to also see who is at the door. Intercom systems will not only increase security can be a helpful device for communicating with family members within your home.

Security Lighting

Security lighting is intended to deter or detect intrusions or other criminal activity that may occur on your property. It works with the use of motion sensors which cause the light to turn on. This not only will scare intruders but also notify you that there is activity outside your home so that you can make the necessary safety measures to remain safe.

Access Control Systems

Access control is a security technique that regulates who or what can view or use resources in and around your home. Physical access control can work to limit access to campuses, buildings, rooms and physical assets. In order to access certain spaces or areas, people are required to give identification authorisation, usually in the form of a pin code or password. There are a number of options regarding access control systems, which are becoming more advanced as technology further improves. 

Security systems are essential in improving the safety of your home. At HunterCON, we pride ourselves in our deliverance of high quality and affordable security solutions that are installed with care. 

With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing electrical services of the highest quality. If you want to improve the safety and security of your home, get in touch with us today.

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How is Electricity Created?

How to save on your electricity bill

By | Electrical

We all love using electricity – but when the time rolls around when we have to pay our electricity bill, sometimes we wish we hadn’t used so much.
How is Electricity Created?

If your electricity bill is too high, or you would like to save some extra money, have a look at these tips to help you save on electricity. Here are nine ways to save electricity and reduce your bill.

 

Energy-efficient lighting

Believe it or not, light bulbs can contribute a surprising amount to your power bill, especially if you have old incandescent or halogen light bulbs. Consider installing energy-efficient light globes. Not only do they use less electricity, but they can also last longer too, which means you don’t need to buy new ones as often.

Adjust the thermostat

While it is extremely important to stay nice and cool in the summer and warm and snug in the winter, heating and cooling can be expensive. When heating, set your thermostat to between 18 and 20 degrees – each degree above 20 can add up to 10% to its running costs. In the hotter seasons set the temperature to 25 or 26 degrees. Once again, every degree below 25 can add around 10% to its running costs.

Wash clothes with cold water

It is no secret that hot water uses a lot more power than cold water. Where you can, try to stick to the cold wash setting for day to day laundry. Furthermore, take advantage of washing machines with good quality, eco-friendly settings and make sure to set your washing machine to the correct load size.

Switch off appliances at the wall

Standby appliances can cost a typical household up to or over $100 per year in wasted electricity. As many people don’t know, appliances like televisions, microwaves, dishwashers and even phone chargers can consume electricity when they’re not being used, which can end up costing you bucket loads if you’re not careful. If you keep forgetting to switch off at the wall, consider buying a smart power board to stop standby electricity for you.

Close doors, windows and curtains

This tip is nice and simple. The harder an air conditioner has to work, the more power it uses and the higher your bill. When running your air conditioner, be sure to close your windows, doors and curtains.

Create a well-insulated home

Insulation is a cost-effective way to improve your home’s energy efficiency, helping reduce your heating and cooling costs. Insulation helps your home maintain a comfortable natural temperature. It acts like an esky to keep the cool in during summer, while acting like a thermo in winter to retain heat. In fact, adequate insulation can save homes up to 45% per year on their electricity costs.

Monitor energy

Tracking your electricity usage with an energy monitor means you can see exactly how and when you are using electricity. This helps you to identify opportunities to save electricity and reduce your power bill. Electricity monitoring is available to most smart meter customers, other meter types will require a meter attachment to access energy monitoring.

Check appliance settings

Adjusting the settings of certain appliances can have a huge impact on your power bill. For example, check the fridge isn’t running too cold and that your TV isn’t too bright. Also make sure you take advantage of any eco settings on appliances such as dishwashers, clothes dryers, washing machines and air conditioners.

Compare electricity providers

Last but certainly not least, compare electricity retailers. If you have been with the same electricity provider for years, then there’s a good chance there is a better provider out there for you. You can save a significant amount by shopping around for a better deal. 

By following these basic tips, you can ensure that your power bill is cheaper, leaving you more money for the things that matter more.

If you have any questions about prolonging the life of your AC, or are looking for a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with HunterCON today.

With over 9 years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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Reading your electricity and gas meters

Reading your electricity and gas meters

By | Electrical

Meters are used to measure how much gas or electricity is being used at your property. There are many different types of meters that can be used to record and display your usage. 
Reading your electricity and gas meters

Meters record and display the information differently, and it is essential to understand how to read your meter correctly. Read on to find out how to read your electricity meter.

Accessing your meter

If you want to reach your meter to either check the meter number or to take your own meter reading, please be aware of the potential for danger. Although meters are designed to be very safe pieces of equipment, they can deteriorate over time. Look for any damage which may have been done. If you see anything that’s potentially hazardous, please don’t touch it or attempt to fix it but contact a professional instead. 

Meter Numbers

All electricity meters have a unique meter number. Your meter number is unique to the electricity meter at your premises. Every electricity meter also has an NMI (National Meter Identifier, which is used by the meter service provider to identify the meter).

Types of meters

There are many types of meters which all have various components. Use this guide to identify what kind of meter you have and how to read it properly. 

Clock face electricity meters

A clock face meter has several small clock faces. To conduct a reading, note the numbers from each clock, from left to right. If a pointer is between 2 numbers, note the lower number. When the pointer is between 0 and 9, read 9. The additional dial labelled 1/10 is not used to calculate your meter reading, so you can ignore this. Your usage for the period is calculated by subtracting the meter reading from your last bill from the reading you obtained from the meter.

Electronic electricity meters

To read your meter press the ‘display’ button which will display the reading options – the meter may scroll through a series of displays. As the meter scrolls, note each of the readings.

Smart meters

Smart meters (also known as interval meters) record usage in 15 or 30-minute intervals. These meters cannot be read manually; only the meter service provider can download the data. Most smart meters are read remotely, and the data is sent to the meter service provider daily.

Gas meters

The type of gas meter you have will depend on the gas pressure available in your area and the type of regulator located on your gas meter. All gas meters have a meter number, which matches the meter number on your bill. Each meter also has a MIRN (Meter Installation Registration Number) or a DPI (Delivery Point Identifier). These numbers are assigned to each address and are used by the meter service provider to identify your property. These numbers vary from State to State.

Metric gas meters

Metric gas meters measure usage in cubic metres. “Cubic metres” or “M³” will be displayed. A reading is done from left to right. The black and white digits should be read. If you see red numbers on your meter, ignore them as they are for testing.

Imperial gas meters

Imperial gas meters measure usage in “cubic feet” which will appear on the meter’s clock face, this is then converted to cubic meters.

A reading is done by noting the numbers from each clock, from left to right. If the pointer is between 2 numbers, note the lower number. When the pointer is between 0 and 9, read 9. The additional dials labelled ½, and two are not used to calculate your meter reading, so you can ignore these.

If you have any questions about electricity meters or are looking for a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with HunterCON today.

With over 9 years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.