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Electrical Safety Inspections Make for a Better New Year

Digital multimeter displaying 235 voltage while inspecting an electrical outlet with red and black wires.

Why Homeowners Should Get Electrical Safety Checks?

Electricity is a necessity for daily life. However, it can be just as dangerous as it is helpful. This danger is one of the main reasons to get a home’s wiring, outlets, and the rest of the electrical system evaluated regularly. Continue reading for an explanation of the importance of electrical safety inspections, when they are needed, and what they entail.

What Does an Electrician Do During an Electrical Inspection?

A homeowner must get their electrical safety inspection done by a qualified professional who is up-to-date on the electrical codes and regulations. When an electrician does a safety inspection, they will examine all parts of the electrical system, including the wiring, outlets, light switches, and electrical panel, to ensure everything works correctly and safely. If there is a problem, they can repair it to keep the household safe and protected from electrical hazards like fires. Some of the things that they do specifically include checking:

  • Electrical boxes and breaker panels
  • GFCI and AFCI outlets
  • Circuits
  • Wire connections and cables 
  • Light switches 

What Necessitates an Electrical Safety Inspection?

Hands holding house keys and a small model house, symbolizing home ownership and the importance of electrical safety inspections for new homeowners.A homeowner should get their home electrical setup inspected every three to five years in a newer home. A home that is over 25 years old should be checked more often, every two to three years. Older homes have a greater likelihood of electrical problems, necessitating a more frequent electrical safety check. However, there are more instances where a safety inspection is needed, such as when:

  • Renovating or remodeling
  • Building a home addition
  • Selling the home
  • Buying a new home
  • The electricity bill has gone up unexpectedly
  • Lights are flickering
  • Noticing burning smells
  • Noticing other signs of electrical problems

What Are the Benefits of Electrical Safety Checks?

Hand inserting a coin into a transparent piggy bank, symbolizing savings and financial management, relevant to energy efficiency and cost savings from electrical safety checks.Getting an electrical safety inspection done on a property has several benefits. One of the main benefits is increased safety. Faulty wiring, old electrical panels, and other issues can pose a serious risk of fire or electrocution. Identifying and fixing these issues through an inspection can prevent potential hazards and keep the home and loved ones safe.

Additionally, an electrical safety check also helps to improve energy efficiency. During the inspection, any outdated or inefficient electrical components can be identified and replaced, leading to lower energy bills. This is because faulty wiring or outdated appliances can consume more electricity, resulting in higher electric bills. Doing an electrical safety inspection can save money on electric bills in the long run.

Regular electrical safety checks also help to prolong the lifespan of electrical systems. With proper inspection and timely repairs, homeowners can help avoid the need for costly replacements in the future. This saves money and ensures that electrical systems are functioning efficiently. 

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is a local family-owned company serving Lansing, MI, and the surrounding areas. They offer fast response, highly trained technicians, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for electrical services in Lansing, MI.  

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Start the New Year Right With These Relaxing Bathroom Remodeling Ideas

Modern bathroom featuring a white bathtub and glass shower enclosure by The Meridian Company for home improvement.

Ideas for Upgrading a Bathroom 

The new year is a time for new beginnings, and what better way to commit to a better lifestyle with more relaxation than by giving the home bathroom a luxurious upgrade? After all, the bathroom is the one place at home where people wash their troubles and stresses away and emerge clean and refreshed, ready to start anew. So, if homeowners want to improve the bathroom experience, here are ideas to help achieve the soothing vibe that’ll help jump-start the new year. 

Get a New Showerhead

Person installing a modern chrome showerhead in a bathroom, highlighting home improvement and bathroom upgrade ideas.One of the best ways to give a bathroom an affordable upgrade is to swap out that old showerhead for a new one. There are a range of options to choose from, so there will be one that will address both a homeowner’s wants and needs in the shower. Some types of showerheads include: 

  • Handheld showerhead: This showerhead can be removed from its mounting and gives homeowners flexibility in bathing and cleaning, which is especially helpful for families with kids or pets.
  • Low-flow showerhead: These showerheads are best for water conservation and saving money. They don’t use as much water, but since the showerhead mixes air in with the water, it can still deliver good water pressure.
  • Rain showerhead: This showerhead can be mounted on the ceiling, but some models fit into existing wall mounts. They are typically wider than most showerheads and mimic the relaxing sensation of rain from above. 

Choose the Perfect Bathtub

Bathtub with modern faucet and soft towel, showcasing a relaxing bathing space ideal for home improvement and bathroom remodeling.Bathtubs may not be as essential a bathroom fixture as a shower, but adding a bathtub to the bathroom is an effective way to create a more relaxing bathing experience at home. Not only are baths soothing, but they also have many health benefits. They are known to ease certain types of chronic pain, boost heart health, promote restful sleep, improve mood, and soothe irritated skin. 

While space is a consideration for adding or updating an existing tub, it shouldn’t stop homeowners from getting a bathtub when doing a bathroom remodel. Tight spaces can opt for a shower and tub combination with an alcove bathtub or another bathtub style. Those with more ample room have many options, such as a freestanding bathtub, which includes classic clawfoot bathtubs, a corner bathtub, a jetted bathtub, and a soaking bathtub. 

Elevate the Bathroom Aesthetic

When updating a bathroom, it’s important to keep in mind the desired style and make design choices based on that. Many things can be done to change the look of a bathroom, including upgrading fixtures like the bathroom faucet, bathroom sink, and even the toilet. 

Homeowners can also choose to change the bathroom tile, bathroom vanity, and paint color to change the look and feel of a bathroom significantly. Adding accessories and decor to the bathroom, including towel racks, mirrors, lighting, rugs, artwork, and plants, can also make a big difference in completing the desired look and aesthetic. 

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is a local family-owned business serving Lansing, MI, and the surrounding areas. They provide fast response, superior customer service, and financing. Call them today for bathroom remodeling services in Lansing, MI. 

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Tips for Troubleshooting a Malfunctioning Heater

Close-up of hands repairing electrical components, showcasing maintenance in home services by The Meridian Company.

Things for Homeowners to Check Before They Call an Expert

With temperatures turning cold, homeowners everywhere are firing up their heaters. Given the task that heaters have to perform, they are remarkably reliable. However, some people may fire up the heater only to find that the heater doesn’t come on or isn’t working correctly. When that happens, the first impulse is to call for heating repair from an expert. But, there are a few things homeowners can check before they do that may fix the problem. 

Verify the Thermostat 

Hand adjusting a digital thermostat displaying temperatures, relevant to checking heating settings before calling for repair services.The first thing to check when the heater is unresponsive is to verify that the thermostat has power. Many thermostats are powered by batteries that can lose charge. The system may not turn on or work right when the battery is weak. Replace the batteries and see if that restores service. 

Another common problem involving the thermostat is an easy one to check. Every year, heater repair experts are called to troubleshoot a faulty heater, only to find the owner hasn’t switched the unit to heating mode. It sounds silly, but homeowners should always take a few seconds to verify that the system is set to heat before calling a technician. 

Install Clean Air Filters 

Person replacing a dirty air filter in a ceiling vent, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance for heating systems to ensure proper airflow and prevent overheating.Once the thermostat is determined not to be the source of the problem, homeowners should turn their attention to the air filters. If the heater has been running but has poor airflow or is having trouble heating, it could have dirty air filters that need replacement. A dirty air filter can also contribute to a heater overheating, which also affects its performance. 

When air filters are clogged, they prevent proper airflow, which may cause heat to build up in the heat exchanger to the point that the system can overheat. Safety devices will trip when this situation occurs to prevent the system from running. The safety device may need to be reset and the air filters replaced to restore service. To avoid this problem, ensure air filters are replaced on a schedule. Experts recommend that air filter replacement occurs around every three months. 

Make Sure the Heater Has Power 

Another problem homeowners may encounter during the heating season is not having power running to their heater. This can happen in two different places. First, breakers can trip, or a fuse can blow, rendering the heater without power. If this is the case, it may not be the heater that needs repair.

Second, every heater has a safety shutoff near the unit. These switches can get accidentally turned off during the cooling season, leaving the homeowners scrambling to figure out the problem with their heaters. So check the unit to make sure the heater is on before calling a professional to look for underlying issues. 

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is a family-owned business serving Lansing and the surrounding areas. They offer fast response, tailored solutions, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for heater and furnace repair in Lansing, MI. 

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How to Fix a Backed-Up Sewer Line

Water puddle surrounded by stones and debris, showing drainage issues relevant to home improvement by Meridian Company.

All About Sewer Line Backups 

Backed-up sewer lines get gross in a hurry. Sewer line backups mean water and sewage don’t move out of the house as they should but come back into the home through the toilets and drains. Plumbers can use multiple tools to diagnose the cause of a sewer line backup and fix sewer lines to get water and waste flowing again. Here is a quick guide to dealing with this irritating plumbing problem. 

What Causes Sewage Backups? 

Clogged sewer pipe with tree roots and debris, illustrating common cause of sewer line backups.A sewer line backup involves a clogged, damaged, or collapsed sewer line stopping water and waste from flowing like it usually does. The result can be wastewater and sewage returning to the home via drains and toilets. A backed-up sewer line occurs for two main reasons, but those reasons can have multiple causes:

  • Blockage or clog: A clog and blockage is a common cause of backups. Blockages can form from many things that shouldn’t go down drains and toilets, like hair, grease, food scraps, and non-flushable materials. Additionally, tree roots can grow into and clog underground lines and cause a backup.
  • Broken or damaged line: A broken or crushed pipe can also deter the water flow and force the water to have nowhere to go but back into the home. Pipes can suffer this damage due to factors like shifting soil, corrosion, age, and wear and tear.

How to Fix a Backed-Up Sewer Line

Plumber using sewer camera inspection equipment to diagnose a backed-up sewer line, with display showing pipe interior.Thankfully, backed-up sewer lines can be fixed by a plumber. Plumbers can use sewer camera inspection to look into the line and determine the cause of the backup, which will influence how it should be fixed. Here are a few methods that may be used when fixing backed-up sewer lines, depending on what caused it:

  • Hydro jet drain cleaning: Water is a powerful tool in the fight against clogs. With hydrojetting, water is sprayed into the pipe at high volume and pressure to clean out the inside of the lines and remove any clogs or buildups.
  • Drain snaking: A drain snake or plumber’s snake is another tool used for clogs. It’s a long cable that goes into the pipe with an end that can break apart blockages. 
  • Trenchless sewer repair: When pipes are damaged or otherwise broken, it can cause sewer backups. Trenchless pipe repair can be used to repair or replace broken pipes by adding an interior epoxy pipe liner or using another trenchless repair method, which is done without major excavation. However, not all pipe damage can be solved this way.

Preventing Backups in Sewer Lines 

Homeowners can also help prevent sewage backups and their messy effects. They should avoid disposing of food in the drains, not pour grease down drains, and avoid flushing anything down a toilet besides waste and toilet paper. These tips will help prevent a major cause of backups: a clogged sewer line.

Homeowners should also have their plumbing and piping inspected regularly as a part of plumbing maintenance. Much of the reason for regular inspections is to catch problems before they get worse and lead to worse issues like backed-up sewer lines. Routine inspections and maintenance give a better chance of finding problems early.

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is a local family-owned business serving Lansing and the surrounding areas. They are always ready and offer fast response and financing. Call them today for sewer line repair services in Lansing, MI.

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Signs of Electrical Wiring Problems

Electrical wiring and outlet installation showcasing exposed wires for safety inspections by The Meridian Company.

How to Spot the Signs of Faulty Electrical Wiring 

The modern home thrives on electricity, from its lights to its appliances. However, with convenience comes certain risks that homeowners should be mindful of. For instance, if one doesn’t recognize the signs of an electrical problem, they risk their health, peace of mind, and safety. Here, one can learn about some signs of electrical wiring problems so they can immediately consult a professional. 

Tripped Circuit Breakers and Blown Fuses 

If a homeowner loses power in some parts of the home, this could indicate a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse. Both of these devices intend to manage the flow of electricity throughout a house, preventing power surges and other events. When these components get tripped or blown, it generally means: 

  • Too much electricity surged through the grid, and the components shut off to prevent damage to electrical devices. 
  • They sensed an issue that could cause an electrical fire, such as faulty wiring, and turned off power to certain devices to help protect the household. 
  • It’s worth noting that newer homes generally rely on circuit breakers, while many homes built before 1960 exclusively rely on fuses. 

While inconvenient, tripped circuit breakers and blown fuses benefit homeowners. They prevent adverse events, promote electrical safety, and signal underlying electrical problems with the home or the power supply. If they happen more frequently, faulty wiring may be to blame, and an electrician should be called.

Scorched Outlets or Outlets That Are Hot to the Touch

Scorched electrical outlet with burn marks, indicating potential wiring issues and electrical hazards, relevant to home safety concerns discussed by The Meridian Company.An outlet that is hot to the touch or one with scorch or burn marks is bad news and can also indicate wiring problems. A scorched outlet is when the area around the socket is black or looks burned. Reasons for an outlet with burn marks or one that feels hot could include: 

  • The socket’s overloaded: An outlet can only handle so many devices at one time. A homeowner who relies on extension cords or power strips could accidentally overload the circuit. 
  • Loose or damaged wiring: Damaged wiring behind the socket can generate excess heat, cause burn marks, and pose an electrical hazard. 
  • A short circuit: This can occur when an electrical current going through the wiring doesn’t travel through the correct path, choosing a shorter route. 

Replacing the outlet’s faceplate will not address the underlying electrical problem with the wiring. Continuing to use the outlet in the face of such a severe issue could threaten homeowners’ safety. 

Buzzing Sounds or Burning Smells Near Outlets 

Person covering nose with hand, reacting to unpleasant smell, indicating potential electrical issues or hazards related to burning smells near outlets.Buzzing sounds or burning smells near an outlet also indicate problems with the electrical wiring and are alarming as their causes could lead to an electrical fire. These signs could mean that: 

  • The circuit is overloaded, meaning too many things are plugged in at a time. 
  • The outlet itself needs replacing, either its wires or the sockets. 
  • There are loose or damaged wires requiring repair or replacement. 

Odd sounds and smells could also point to voltage fluctuations. Electronic devices rely on a steady stream of power to stay on. If there are voltage fluctuations, devices may turn on and off or fail to maintain a steady charge. Voltage fluctuation can also put excessive wear and tear on the system itself. If homeowners notice any faulty wiring symptoms, they should call an electrician immediately to keep their homes and families safe. 

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical 

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is a local family-owned business serving Lansing and the surrounding areas. They offer fast response, the best brands, and tailored solutions. Call them today for electrical services in Lansing, MI. 

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