Flickering lights during a storm in the DC area are common. During severe weather events, the electrical grid takes a proactive approach to preventing long-duration outages. Throughout the grid, protective devices known as reclosures perform quick “trip and reclose” operations to clear minor faults. Read on to find out when power fluctuations are a problem.…
Older homes across Northern Virginia and the Washington, DC, suburbs often have electrical systems built for a different era. Decades ago, household members did not rely on high-powered appliances, constant device usage, or advanced HVAC systems. Today, your home likely uses far more electricity than the original panel can handle. If your system struggles to…
Lighting plays a bigger role in your energy use than you might realize. From interior lights that stay on throughout the evening to exterior lights that provide security overnight, your lighting system runs daily and adds up over time. Choosing energy-efficient lighting can reduce energy consumption, lower utility bills, and improve comfort without sacrificing the…
A backup generator gives you peace of mind when the power goes out. Although generators work well in emergencies, they require proper care to prevent failure. If you have not tested or maintained your generator recently, it may not be as ready as you think. Our electricians at Kolb Electric in Elkridge, MD, want to…
Knowing what a GFCI outlet is, how it works, and why it’s a necessary safety measure for your home is important. Designed to provide a fast response time when an electrical imbalance is detected, GFCI outlets are an inexpensive and worthwhile home investment. Our experts at Kolb Electric cover what this device is, how it…
At best, power outages are highly inconvenient, but at worst, they can be a serious issue. To make sure their homes stay powered during a grid failure, many homeowners turn to home generators. But how do these systems work to provide power during an outage? In this blog, our professional electricians at Kolb Electric walk…
Tripped circuit breakers are not only frustrating, but they can also be a cause for concern in your home. If you find yourself repeatedly having to reset your circuit breaker, it’s time to look for the underlying cause. Our experts at Kolb Electric will cover five common causes of a frequently tripping circuit breaker. If…