A “Sweet 16” Electric New Year’s Resolutions
Have you made your New Year’s resolutions for 2026? Most likely they will include some of the following: saving money, eating better, exercising, losing weight, learning new skills, reading more, and improving mental well-being. You probably haven’t made any resolutions related to your home’s electric system. So, we have taken the opportunity to give you our […]
Signs You Need a New Electric Control Panel
“Out of sight; out of mind” certainly can be used to describe your electric control panel. Hidden in your basement or furnace room, it is the nerve center of your home, controlling everything from your heating and AC units to your appliances to your lighting and electronics. It’s all good, until it isn’t. A control […]
Buying a New Electric Control Panel
Buying a new electric control panel is a once in a generation purchase. And depending on how old your home is or how long you are planning to stay in it, you may never need to buy one. But if you are experiencing frequent power outages, or higher energy costs, or your current control panel […]
How to Become a Journeyman Electrician in Illinois
Last month, we discussed the many financial and non-financial benefits of becoming an electrician. But how do you become a journeyman electrician in Illinois? Here we provide guidance. Step 1 – Apprenticeship Before you can become a journeyman electrician, you must serve an apprenticeship, which is usually sponsored by a company or union. To serve […]
Common Electrical Terms
Electrical systems have their own lingo. And to better understand how electricity works in your home, it is helpful to understand some of the terms. So here are a few common electrical terms. Current. Current is the flow of electricity through a conductor. There are two types of current. AC (alternating current) is the standard […]
13 Signs You Need a New Electric Circuit Breaker Panel
Your electric circuit breaker panel is basically the brain of your house. It is the source that powers all your electrical items, from your lights to your AC unit to your appliances and technology. The panel can last for decades, but eventually you may need to replace it. Here are some signs you’re due for […]
Home EV Charging Stations – Tips to Consider
If you are considering buying an electric vehicle (EV), it makes sense to buy a home EV charger as opposed to relying on public chargers for a few reasons: Despite the initial outlay for the home charger, over time the cost savings of “filling up” at home as opposed to public stations will outweigh that […]
Buying a Standby Generator
It’s not uncommon for there to be power outages in Chicago’s North Shore and Northwest suburbs. Intense heat, high winds, and violent thunderstorms all could lead to power outages. When that occurs, you are at risk for: Spoiled food Flooding (especially if you do not have a battery backup to your sump pump) Loss of […]
Electrical System Resolutions for 2024
We know you’re “charged” for the holiday season and 2024. You’ve probably been coming up with a list of New Year’s resolutions. But while you are making that list, here are some thoughts on resolutions to improve your home’s electrical system. Make sure your extension cords are not damaged; replace them if they are. Clean […]
How Long Do Things Last?
As the new year approaches, you may be contemplating some major purchases for next year, while understanding that “things happen” and you should be prepared. Given that, here are some guidelines on estimated life for various items in your home, from plumbing and electrical components to HVAC equipment and more. Note, of course, that actual […]