Category: Electrical

Electricity is to your commercial building what oxygen is to the body. Without a system to properly deliver it, you cannot perform any necessary functions. That is why we at MaintenX consider electrical repair to be one of our most important duties within the preventative maintenance strategy. Proper electrical maintenance will ensure a safe building and help you save on energy costs long-term.

 

At MaintenX we are honored to work with so many great clients who take their facility maintenance seriously. Below are some of the most common questions we receive about our electrical services to help you know what to expect when you give us a call:

 

Will this be expensive?

This is the most common question we receive, and the answer varies depending on a number of factors. Of course, quality repairs from a reputable contractor will cost more than service from a less reputable handyman. However, what you receive is the peace of mind that you won’t have to pay for the same repairs twice. You can, however, reduce the likelihood of costly emergency repairs by performing regular routine maintenance on your electrical system.

 

Can you be here now?

MaintenX employs one of the nation’s largest subcontractor networks spanning 13 states and thousands of cities. While we do our best to provide immediate service for emergency repairs, we cannot always reach your facility immediately depending on the time of day and our current schedule. Typically our contractors can reach a job site within a few hours, so the sooner you call the sooner we can begin the dispatch and consultation process.

 

How can I protect my electrical system?

Preventative care is the best option for reducing safety hazards and unexpected downtime. We recommend routinely inspecting your electrical system to look for wearing parts or insulation that need replacing. We also recommend investing in surge protectors and a backup generator or UPS system to ensure your facility is never without power. As the hurricane season fast approaches this summer, we encourage all commercial facilities to invest in these systems to keep their facility functioning in the event of a natural emergency.

 

Knowing what to expect from your electrical team is half the battle in running an effective facility maintenance team. To learn more about your options and preventative maintenance services, contact the local MaintenX team today!

Your electrical system is the heartbeat of your facility. Without the electrical system, your building would be rendered uninhabitable, let alone practical for your business functions. A highly functioning and sustainable electrical system, on the other hand, can help your building save money and run more efficiently. It is for this reason that we recommend you invest in sustainability in your electrical system design. 

 

What Are Sustainable Systems?

A sustainable electrical system requires several elements. First, it must effectively reduce energy consumption below current commercial building standards. It must do so in a way that is tenable long-term and does not require additional maintenance or costs above a traditional electrical system. Sustainable designs must also be recyclable once they become outdated for the building. 

 

With these requirements in mind, there are many ways you can retool your electrical system to become more sustainable. Many facility managers start small by replacing appliances and lighting with energy-efficient alternatives. However, this is often not enough to make a real impact on your facility long-term. You need to incorporate the whole system — from the maintenance you plan to the manufacturers you choose — into a sustainable design for the system to provide lasting benefit. 

 

Sustainability in Maintenance

Manufacturers in sustainable design often plan for serviceability in their electrical systems. If an electrical system is designed with maintenance in mind, it is likely to outperform ones that are not. It is also important to invest in electrical maintenance as part of our sustainability plan. AN electrical system that is well-maintained will last longer and require fewer replacement parts and expensive repairs than those that are not. 

 

Improving Sustainability Over Time

One of the best ways to improve your electrical systems’ efficiency is to install sensors to track their output and performance over time. An electrical system that is overworking will cost you in the long run. This also makes your maintenance plan more efficient. A reliability-centered maintenance plan that adjusts for energy usage over time can create real savings over the years. The sooner you start, the sooner you’ll see the benefits of a sustainable electrical system. 

 

MaintenX believes that sustainability is necessary for the next generation of commercial facilities. Without these goals in mind, business performance is guaranteed to slow and costs are guaranteed to rise. Now is the time to act and make your electrical system efficient for the future. 

 

To learn more about electrical safety and sustainability, contact your local MaintenX team today!

The work of an electrician often goes unnoticed in modern media and culture. While this job may not be as glamorous as others, it is one of the most important in the trade fields. Electricians keep the light on during inconvenient, frustrating, and even dangerous situations. It is a highly rewarding career where you can make a difference in the lives of families and businesses in your community. 

 

Job Duties and Salary of an Electrician

Electricians are responsible for a building’s entire electrical system. From the wiring inside the walls to the electrical appliances, they handle repairs and installations for the entire system. Some of the common job duties for electricians include: 

 

• Use blueprints to install electrical systems
• Inspect electrical circuits and breakers 
• Test for and diagnose electrical issues
• Understand and adhere to building regulations
• Test computer or other electrical systems for performance issues

 

Electrical work is often considered to be hazardous, but a trained electrician can avoid almost all dangers. Plus, they are compensated heavily for the risk. With a two-year degree, electricians can make upwards of $50K – $60K per year, especially if they work for an emergency maintenance service where overtime is available. 

 

How To Become an Electrician

Like most maintenance and mechanic jobs, you’ll need to attend a technical school to receive proper training for electrical work. Sometimes you can skip this step if you have been working in the electrical field with a family business, but it is best to invest in a proper education before beginning on-the-job training. 

 

Electricians must also complete an apprenticeship before they can begin practicing under a license. Typically, your technical school will set you up with an apprenticeship in the last leg of your school training. If not, you can find apprenticeships through the union or through local companies. This important step will help you gain the hands-on experience and skills needed to excel. 

 

MaintenX is proud to be a top workplace for electricians throughout the country. We would be happy to jumpstart your career in this field! To learn more about our job opportunities for new and experienced electricians, visit our careers page. 

Most any modern commercial facility is entirely reliant on electricity to operate. We rely on electrical power for every computer, appliance, factory equipment, and facility essential such as a running HVAC system. Despite our overwhelming reliance on the electrical system, very few facility managers take the time to invest in electrical preventative maintenance. 

 

Your electrical system is a superpower, but it isn’t infallible. Wiring gets old, outlets get overworked, and circuits become overloaded more easily than you might imagine. To prevent inconvenient emergency repairs or more serious threats like electrical fires, invest in preventative care from your MaintenX electrician team. You’ll be investing in these benefits, as well as improving the overall efficiency and quality of your workplace: 

 

Prevent corrosion of electrical wiring and parts. 

The electrical components of your facility will accumulate dust and dirt just like the rest of the facility. Even if you can’t see it, you may be able to tell when electrical wiring is in need of a tune-up by the smell or unusual noises coming from electrical components. Ask your MaintenX electrician to inspect both internal and external electrical components to ensure corrosion does not occur.

 

Replace overheating parts early. 

Typically, electrical components will start to overheat before they fail altogether or cause an electrical fire. This is a crucial step, because you can replace these parts early if you catch overheating in time. By replacing old or overworked parts early, you can save on costly emergency repairs and damage caused from a circuit that is overworked. 

 

Increase energy-efficiency. 

Overloading an outdated electrical system is one of the easiest ways to waste energy in a commercial facility. With an electrical preventative maintenance plan in place, however, you can work to reduce your electrical system’s workload and increase energy efficiency overall. This may include replacing old or outdated equipment to more modern technologies which will also increase energy efficiency at your facility. 

 

Prevent electrical shorts. 

One of the most important benefits of electrical maintenance is preventing electrical shorts and potential fire hazards. If an electrical system is overworked and not maintained by a professional electrician, it can become overloaded and short circuit during your normal working hours. THis not only puts productivity to a halt, but can put tenants at risk of electrical fires. A sound electrical maintenance plan will prevent these issues from happening in the first place. 

 

Electrical maintenance is a critical component of any facility maintenance plan, and can be easy with MaintenX. We offer comprehensive preventative care for electrical, HVAC, plumbing, roofing, and more. To learn more about our electrical maintenance services and costs, contact your local MaintenX today!

Do you have a preventative maintenance plan in place for your facility’s electrical components? For most facility managers, the answer is no. Unfortunately, a lack of preventative maintenance is what often leads to unsafe electrical issues and costly repairs down the line. There is no room for error when it comes to keeping your facility safe for employees by improving your electrical maintenance program, you can ensure their safety against electrical fires and workflow headaches like outages or electrical shorts. 

 

Below are our four tips to improve your electrical maintenance schedule and create a safer, more efficient workplace: 

 

Reduce electrical system workload. 

Overloading your circuits with computers, lamps, chargers, portable fans, and other electrical appliances can spell disaster in a commercial facility. By overloading your outlets, you are putting your facility at risk for electrical fires and shortages that can cost you tremendously. Before you overload your outlets, consider upgrading your electrical system to fit a more modern capacity. 

 

Upgrade your panels

This is an important step for older buildings, especially if you suspect you may be overloading your system. The best move is to upgrade your panels so you can continue necessary business functions without risking safety or efficiency. Your MaintenX electrician can help you accomplish this during business hours with minimal disruptions in work activity. 

 

Replace old wiring

Wiring that has reached the end of its lifespan will not only cause electrical issues but can also be a serious fire hazard inside your facility. If you have an older building or have never had your wiring checked, schedule a consultation with a MaintenX electrician. They can inspect for issues and help you replace the wiring without disruption to your workplace. 

 

Fix facility leaks

We all know that water and electrical components are a dangerous combination. However, many facility managers do not see a small leak as an emergency. These sorts of issues cannot be put off until tomorrow or next week. If you notice a leak in your plumbing, especially if it is leaking near an electrical outlet or electrical component, you need to contact MaintenX immediately. 

 

Electrical maintenance can be tricky. But when you have MaintenX by your side you can rest easy knowing your facility is taken care of. To learn more about our preventative maintenance services, contact us today!

At MaintenX, most of our service calls for backup generators happen in the summertime. Smart business owners are preparing for the summer stormy season, which includes preventative care on their backup power supply. In the event of an emergency, your backup generator can keep the doors of your business open to provide shelter and essential services in emergencies.  We like to do our part by offering backup generator maintenance services and advice in the spring before the bulk of hurricanes and nasty weather arrive. 

 

Below are our technicians’ top tips to ensure your backup generator is at peak performance this summer. While each generator model, size, and design is different, these tips should help you across the board along with a professional consultation from your MaintenX team: 

 

Check oil levels.

Just like the oil in your car needs to be replenished, your generator’s motor oil should be checked and replaced periodically. Because it does not run on a daily basis, this step is critical to ensure it is ready in emergencies. Be sure to also store some oil in case of emergencies. 

 

Test the battery. 

Dead or faulty batteries are one of the top reasons we receive emergency service calls on generators. Once a month you should test the battery to ensure it is fully charged and free of corrosion. A MaintenX technician can do this during your preventative maintenance checks to save time and ensure your facility’s safety in emergencies. 

 

Check fuel levels. 

Backup generators can run on gas, diesel, or propane. No matter what fuel type, you’ll want to check the piping for leaks as these can be dangerous. Check fuel levels and refuel as necessary so you always have a full tank. 

 

Change out used parts.

Backup generators have air filters, fuel filters, and spark plugs that all must be changed regularly for optimal performance. These minor parts can cause issues if they are not clean and changed regularly. Ask your MaintenX technician to check these at each visit. 

 

Schedule a test run each month. 

Most importantly, you should always check your backup generator unit for proper function. Some generator models will perform this test on their own, but others will need to be tested manually. By running your generator once a month, you can prevent generator emergencies when the power goes out. 

 

By following these five tips, you will be better prepared for the summer storms and any power emergency at your facility. To learn more about our backup generator maintenance services, call our offices today!

Electrical fires are one of a facility manager’s worst nightmares, and they’re not as uncommon as you think. Electrical equipment and lighting equipment are the second leading cause of office building fires and cause 15% of property damage in commercial building fire incidents. This means that many of the office fire experiences in commercial facilities are fully preventable by the facility staff, if only they know what to look for. 

 

Top Causes of Electrical Fires

Electrical fires can be caused by a variety of electrical issues, including overuse, lack of maintenance, and age. Below are the top four causes of electrical fires in both homes and commercial properties in the U.S.

 

Faulty Electrical Outlets

Electrical outlets that are damaged or out of date are one of the leading causes of electrical fires. They can cause great danger because most people are not able to identify when an outlet is no longer suitable for use. You should have your electrician inspect all outlets during their preventative maintenance visits to avoid this fire hazard. 

 

Circuit Overloads 

If a circuit is overused or overpowered, it can cause an electrical fire without anyone realizing it. While this problem is serious, it is also easy to prevent. If your electrician believes you may be risking a circuit overload due to the demand at your facility, have them install additional circuits or outlets to compensate. 

 

Outdated Electrical Wiring

Electrical wiring can fry and cause electrical fires if it is outdated or damaged. This can happen due to aging, or to damage from pests or building stress. If your electrician notices signs of electrical wiring age or damage, they should replace it immediately. 

 

Improper Lighting

Even your light bulbs can cause electrical fires if they are not fitted properly for the fixture. If the wattage does not match the recommended wattage for the fixture, you should replace it immediately. Ask your electrician or check the manufacturer’s recommendation for any fixture that starts to flicker without explanation.

 

You can often identify electrical problems easily by flickering lights, sizzling or buzzing sounds, or circuit breakers that trip unusually often. If you notice any of these signs, you should call your electrician immediately. Your MaintenX electrician should also schedule regular preventative maintenance services to ensure none of these signs are missed before it’s too late. 

 

To learn more about MaintenX’s preventative electrical services, contact us today! We go above and beyond to ensure your facility is always safe, productive, and a great place to work.

Old damaged electrical wiring is one of the leading sources of commercial building fires we see at MaintenX. And yet, so many facility managers don’t give their wiring a second thought until it causes problems. It stays hidden within the walls, and facility managers forget about its maintenance. However, if you’re in an older building, this could lead to disaster. 

 

Below are some of the most common risk factors for electrical fires. If your electrician alerts you to any of these in your facility, take steps to fix the problem immediately. Your building will be much safer with the proper electrical maintenance service from MaintenX: 

 

Older insulation

Insulation keeps the wiring safe from everything inside the building. Over the years, it can become brittle, damaged, or chewed by animals. When this happens, it needs to be replaced by your electrician. If your wiring is not insulated, it can be chewed or exposed and cause sparks to fly. However, your MaintenX electrician can easily replace it with modern insulation throughout the facility. 

 

Low amp wiring

Older buildings may be fitted with wiring that is rated for a lower amp than modern equipment needs. If the wiring is used for too long, it can overload the circuit and cause an electrical fire. Typically, we recommend replacing the breakers with an arc fault circuit interrupter to eliminate the danger. However, your MaintenX electrician can give you a more specific diagnosis and solution when they visit for a consultation. 

 

Poorly maintained or modified wiring

Buildings that are over 50 years old have likely undergone electrical repairs by many electricians over the years. Electrical maintenance has changed drastically in that time, which means the repairs done earlier may not be up to the standards of today. In fact, electrical work from the past may have damaged the wiring more than it helped. If you have an older building, it’s important to schedule a consultation to ensure your wiring has not been damaged by repairs from the past. 

 

Improper pest control

Not only are rats and mice health hazards, but they will chew through your facility’s electrical wiring if they are able. This can lead to issues within the circuit or an electrical fire in more severe cases. While MaintenX does not offer pest control services, we can recommend you to a local provider to ensure that your electrical problems are not caused by pests in the wall. 

 

Poor electrical design

Your building likely has electrical wiring that met the codes of the age in which it was built. If your building is older, this could mean your electrical design is out of date. While this doesn’t often cause issues, if the wiring has a subpar design, it could lead to dangerous consequences when running modern equipment. Ask your MaintenX electrician about rewiring your building to meet modern codes and safety precautions. 

 

MaintenX is here to help you meet the modern needs of commercial facilities. To learn more about our electrical repair services, contact us today!

Electrical repair work is something most commercial property owners steer clear from, and for good reason. It is one of the most dangerous lines of maintenance work out there and requires a depth of knowledge and skill to master. However, at MaintenX we want you to be prepared for all types of electrical issues. The more you know about the different causes of electrical shorts and power outages, the better you can handle these dangerous events. 

 

Below are three different types of electrical anomalies that you should understand and prepare for at your facility: 

 

Static shock

Most of us don’t think of static electricity as a danger on commercial property. Sure, it can do harmless things like making your hair stand on end or sting you when you touch a metal door, but usually, we don’t think of it as dangerous. However, commercial facilities are often much more risky areas than our homes. 

 

It isn’t just our car doors or balloons rubbed on our heads that create static electricity. It is created by an imbalance of electrical charges and can happen in commercial applications on a much larger scale. In rare instances, static shocks can cause injuries or put people with pacemakers at risk. If gasoline is present onsite, static electricity can even cause fires. However, the most common danger is the potential damage to your electronics. For this reason, it’s important to reduce potential triggers of static shock at your facility.

 

Power surge

Most of us have experienced a power surge at some point in our home or business. They can be caused by anything from a fallen power line to a lightning strike, or even an overworked outlet. However, like a static shock, this seemingly small danger can pose serious risks to your electronic system. 

 

Depending on the size of your facility, a power surge can compromise data storage, essential equipment, or essential workstations. It is rarely physically dangerous, but can quickly lead to a shutdown of areas of your facility if you’re not careful. To prevent power surges, be sure to schedule preventive electrical maintenance. The better care you take of your wiring and electrical systems, the less likely you are to face one of these debilitating events. 

Power outage

Power outages are less likely to cause immediate damage to your electrical system, but they can equally wreak havoc on your business operations. For some businesses, such as medical facilities and nursing homes, a power outage can be life-threatening. That is why MaintenX recommends investing in top-of-the-line backup power for all commercial spaces. 

 

For facilities that provide essential services, we recommend a UPS system to provide continual power in the event of an outage. However, smaller businesses should invest in a backup generator to provide the needed power for primary business functions. Even a small generator can help maintain a portion of your office space during an outage. Investing in these systems and planning preventative maintenance with us can help you keep your business afloat in uncertain times. 

 

MaintenX offers 24/7 electrical maintenance services for businesses across the country. Our team of electricians is there to help you in emergencies, as well as in preventative services to keep the emergencies at bay. To learn more about our electrician staff, contact your local MaintenX team today!