An electrical inspection refers to examining and testing an electrical installation’s condition, adequacy, or functioning. Those who schedule in regular electrical maintenance in Calgary have identified unsafe installations or equipment failures that could lead to damage, injury, and fire risks and prevent unnecessary power outages.

In which case, what things does a professional electrician look out for during an electrical inspection? What is all included in one?

Read on to see what you need to include on your checklist!

Reasons for an Electrical Inspection

When it comes to electrical maintenance, an inspection is instrumental in ensuring safety by preventing and addressing any apparent issues. Yet, what circumstances would you need to get an electrical inspection? You would be surprised that there are various situations where you might need one!

Here are a few reasons why you may need an electrical inspection:

If you noticed any electrical issues
Before buying a home
After major renovations
In the aftermath of a brutal storm

In these circumstances, it’s warranted since you want to ensure that all electrical wiring is in working order and meets safety standards.

Electrical Inspection Checklist

During an electrical inspection, there are various things that an electrician will be on the lookout for that are important. The listed checklist below is what’s included within a routine electrical inspection:

Identifying any electrical hazards – such as uncovered, exposed, or outdated wiring
Ensure GFCI outlets are wired correctly
Testing and checking safety switches, and electrical meter
Examining the electrical panel by checking the circuit breaker capacity
Assessing and maintaining past repairs
Locating and testing fire alarms
Making sure everything is up to code

Frequency of Inspection for Electrical Maintenance

Maintenance can seem like a chore. Yet, ensuring electrical maintenance through an inspection is rather low maintenance! It’s generally recommended every three to five years. Yet, other factors can affect how soon you should get an electrical inspection. As a rule of thumb, it’s in your best interest to get one if a place is over 25 years old since they can be riddled with older wiring, which can be prone to faulty use and even pose a safety hazard. In addition, if you notice any DIY work done with your electrical wiring, call in a professional for an electrical inspection to remedy any issues the DIY work could potentially create.

Colz Electric is the master electrician that you can trust. Our team of highly trained Calgary electricians has all the hands-on skills and experience required to handle all types of residential and commercial jobs. With 24-hour service, we are ready to come out to your home or business for Calgary electrical services or urgent after-hours electrical needs. Our professional results, client trust, and superb value showcase our commitment to providing our customers with 100% satisfaction. Speak to one of our Calgary electricians at 403-770-3030.

As we continue to make advancements in the field of electrical science, we’re exposed to the ways in which our previous codes and standards are no longer suitable. This means that older homes may have been built properly, but their electrical wiring no longer meets the standards that we hold today.

For those looking for peace of mind and a safer electrical system, opting to call a Calgary electrician for an aluminum wiring replacement may be worth exploring. But how much will such a project cost? And why should aluminum wiring be replaced in the first place? Let’s take a closer look.

How Much Do Aluminum Wiring Replacements Cost?

Aluminum wiring replacements can be a rather costly home improvement project to take on, ranging anywhere from $300 to $500 per outlet. This can add to up to between $8,000 and $15,000 for replacing the wiring in an entire house.

Therefore, some homeowners may opt to simply repair the aluminum wiring instead, which can cut the price tag in half. However, it’s important to note that this is not a permanent solution and does not remove the fire hazard altogether.

Why Should Aluminum Wiring Be Replaced?

In terms of functionality, aluminum wiring works exactly like copper, which is what you will find in more modern homes and builds. However, its main issue lies in its connections and conductivity.

When the electrical current passes through the cables and connectors, the wires begin to expand and eventually heat up. While thermal expansion is normal and to be expected, regardless of the type of wire, aluminum wiring expands three times as much as copper wiring.

When the electricity is turned off and wires cool down, the wiring contracts and the connectors, in theory, follow suit. However, the aluminum wiring places so much pressure on the connectors that, over time, they begin to lose their shape and fail to seal completely to the wiring. These small gaps expose the wires to oxygen, which then oxidizes and allows the connection point to heat up even more.

As the gap widens, the oxidation continues, and the connections loosen, you increase the risk for fire hazards.

While aluminum wiring replacements are undoubtedly a large undertaking, they are worth your consideration. Don’t hesitate to contact a Calgary electrician when approaching the project, as they will be able to offer you a number of options and solutions.

It may surprise you how vast and extensive the role of an electrician is. Thanks in part to home renovation shows, they may be best known for installing new electrical systems in a house, but they hold many more responsibilities than that.

Conducting electrical repairs in Calgary is also an integral part of their job, as wiring and electrical systems can be damaged post-installation. But what might these electrical repairs entail? Let’s take a look!

6 Types of Electrical Repairs

Panel Box Repairs

Your panel box is your main source of electricity. However, if you begin to notice consistent issues with power around your home, your panel box may no longer be operating properly. Electricians will be able to come in and offer any repairs, as well as suggest when a new panel box is required altogether.

Outlet Repairs

Loose and damaged outlets are incredibly dangerous to your property, as the exposed and faulty wires can become a fire hazard as soon as the outlet is utilized. Electricians will be able to repair or even replace your outlets, depending on the severity of the situation.

Generator Repair

For businesses that require constant power, such as hospitals, or homes located in the countryside, having a reliable generator can be the difference between a slight delay and a major headache. Electricians are able to tackle any issue related to your generator, as well as conduct check-ups to ensure it’s still functioning properly.

Wiring Repairs

Older homes tend to have aluminum wiring running through the structure, which, we have since learned, tends to heat up while in use. This can become a major fire hazard. Electricians can be called to replace any old and faulty wiring, ensuring your home is completely safe.

Smoke Detector and Fire Alarm Repairs

When it comes to fire safety, never put off repairs to systems that keep you safe. By conducting a regular test on your safety systems, such as your smoke detectors or fire alarms, you can be alerted when there is an issue. You can then ask an electrician to come in and ensure everything is restored to peak condition.

Lighting Repairs

Similar to that of old wiring, some lighting fixtures are outdated, thus causing more harm than good to your home. By contacting an electrician, you can ensure all wiring and electrical surrounding your lighting is collecting the correct amperage while also taking measures to be more energy efficient, thus saving you money on your monthly bills.

Like anything in your house, electrical panels have a lifespan of their own. In due time, it needs to be upgraded or replaced to ensure that your home still runs as expected while guaranteeing that your house is safe against electrical fires.

What does it cost to replace or upgrade your electrical panel in Calgary? We break down the factors that impact the cost while offering insight into the final figures.

What Affects The Cost of Replacing Electrical Panels in Calgary?

Multiple factors can impact the final cost of your electrical panels, including:

The Type of Circuit Breaker – There are two distinct types of circuit breakers: Single and Double Pole. Each has its own volts system, which can determine how much energy it can produce to support your home. Depending on your electrical output, you will have to decide on which breaker works for you.
The Brand of the Electrical Panel – The better the brand, the more you’ll have to pay for it. Manufacturers such as Square D, General Electric, Siemens and Leviton might be more on the costly side but will guarantee you years of quality and protection.
Upgrading to Higher Amps – Upgrading an electrical panel to support more power might be required to ensure your home system works as expected. Like the circuit breaker, you have to consider the number of amps needed to support your household.
Moving the Electrical Panel – If you plan to move the electrical panel, it will cost you more in labour costs and wiring, as it means you’ll have to shift the focus of your power source. You can choose between indoor and outdoor panel boxes.
The Labour Costs – The type of system you install, coupled with your current model’s outlay, will impact the amount of work the Calgary electrician has to do. The more work they have to do, the more it will cost you.

Residential Circuit Breaker Panel with Service Writing

What Are The Advantages to Electrical Panel Upgrades?

Opting for replacing or upgrading your electrical panels in Calgary means more power in your home with the ability to run all appliances and electronics safely while increasing the safety and value of your property. You will also be able to reduce the number of electrical repairs you need for your home, saving you money and time.

If you are looking to upgrade your electrical panel, you should understand the reasons and costs associated with this activity. Of course, it is equally likely that if you are currently searching for this service, it is because you know why you should seek an upgrade, but what about those who don’t know whether or not they need an electrical panel upgrade?

For people who don’t know why they need an upgrade, there are many reasons for you to seek one. For instance, Calgary electrical services are continually changing, and older homes may have outdated or potentially dangerous fuse boxes. However, this is not the only reason that an electrical panel upgrade is necessary.

Reasons and Cost of Electrical Panel Replacement in Calgary

Fuse-to-Breaker

One of the more common reasons that people seek an upgrade for their electrical panels is to transition from fuses to breakers. Many people prefer the breaker system because it doesn’t require replacement parts, as opposed to fuses that will break when overloaded and must be replaced, and therefore kept in stock around your home. A licensed electrician can complete this change with the appropriate permits.

This type of upgrade will be more expensive than the others listed here. Typically, the cost will range between $1,500-$2,000, but it will depend on the number of circuits requiring the change and a variety of other factors.

Increased Amperage

Another popular reason for electrical panel upgrades is due to a desire for an increase in the amperage. For instance, if you are residing at an older home and the amperage is designated to 100 amps, you may have trouble running modern appliances such as central vacuums, computers, or others. Plus, some appliances require unique voltage outlets and additional electrical draw to function correctly, and if there is not enough amperage for them to work, you could face serious inconvenience. Usually, these outlets are installed during the building of your home, but if you want to renovate or move those locations, it may be necessary to upgrade your electrical panel at the same time.

In general, this type of upgrade will have a varied cost. Depending on the increase to your amperage, the price can rise from $1,300 for 200 amps up to $4,000 for 400 amps.

Moving the Panel

Some people may wish to move their electrical panel from its current position. For instance, if they are going through basement renovations and want to put a new room in the current location of the panel, or if they are worried about potential flooding and wish to raise the panel out of the danger zone.

This type of panel upgrade will typically range in cost from $1,500 to $2,000, but it will depend on the distance the panel moves and the amount of rewiring that is required.

Contact our Calgary electricians to ensure that you get a hard figure on the cost of electrical panel upgrades in Calgary.

Notice that your lights are flickering, your panel is struggling, or your electricity isn’t operating as it should be? Don’t know why it’s happening? Let’s drop a little spoiler for you: it might be the cold weather…

Can the cold weather cause electrical problems?

In the short answer, yes, extremely cold weather can instigate plenty of electrical problems for homeowners and businesses. From frozen wiring to overworked panels due to increased indoor heating and lighting use, winter can place unexpected stress on your electrical systems. These issues can also interfere with more advanced technologies, such as smart home installation, where consistent power and connectivity are essential for optimal performance.

There is no need to panic. In fact, during the winter months, such is the commonality of electrical problems, most people assume that it’s the cold weather.

However, in many situations, these problems are not due to the cold but other issues. They are merely exacerbated during the cold, as it triggers them.

Let’s take a look at the common electrical problems that can happen during winter and how you prepare your home for it.

Electrical Repairs For Your Cold-Infused Problems

Tripping Circuit Breakers & Power Outages

The cold weather can wreak havoc on your electrical panel, particularly with the overuse of energy through heaters and general electrical use. Therefore, the large emphasis on these kinds of devices will put your system on edge. In turn, this results in breaker trips and flickering lights.

How to get around this problem? Electric panel upgrades or installing a home generator can prove beneficial, safeguarding your home against any tripped breakers. You should also schedule electrical maintenance to ensure your system is ready for the winter.

Out of Date Equipment

Old and heavily used equipment can be problematic for your electrical system. Everything from space heaters to electric blankets can put too much pressure on your system, resulting in it crashing later on. This is due to most of these older items being incompatible with modern homes.

As a precaution, you should remove all old, used equipment from your home (anything more than five years) and get your system checked regularly to avoid an electrical fire.

Static Electricity

A charge imbalance in dry materials (such as wires) can result in static electricity, ultimately making it dangerous in certain conditions.

If you suspect a damaged or unmonitored electrical current or flammable substance near your system, either buy a humidifier to prevent it or get professional electric repairs in Calgary to prevent fires.

(Want to know “How to Prevent Snow & Ice Buildup on Your Home”? Read this!)

Frayed Wires

Frayed wires can be problematic any time of year but become noticeable during the wintertime. Harsh elements such as snow and ice can do major damage to wiring if it isn’t properly maintained.

If they are left too long unnoticed, they risk catching fire, putting your home and lives at risk. Therefore, it is important to ensure that all wires are clean with no opening, and most importantly, are in perfect working condition.

Hire A Calgary Electrician To Prepare Yourself

The best way to prepare your electrical systems for winter is simple: hire a qualified Calgary electrician. Only with an expert pair of eyes to evaluate your systems can you determine whether or not you need extensive repairs or minor adjustments. They’ll also prevent potential problems occurring in the winter if these safeguards are put in place.

Maintain and enjoy a comfortable home throughout the winter season by taking proactive measures with a professional.

Colz Electric is the master electrician that you can trust. Our team of highly trained Calgary electricians has all the hands-on skills and experience required to handle all types of residential and commercial jobs. With 24-hour service, we are ready to come out to your home or business for Calgary electrical services or urgent after-hours electrical needs. Our professional results, client trust and superb value showcase our commitment to providing our customers with 100% satisfaction. Speak to one of our Calgary electricians at 403-770-3030.

The process of becoming a master of anything is long and difficult, and this is just as true for master electricians. The well-known saying that “it takes 1,000 hours to become a master” is popular for a reason. Devoting yourself to a skill or trade is a full-time commitment that should be undertaken with full knowledge of the required dedication and commitment.

For master electricians, the process begins with an apprenticeship. Whether it’s troubleshooting complex systems or performing electrical installation in Calgary homes and businesses, each task helps build the skills required to succeed. We look at the full process for becoming a master in this trade, for Alberta, down below:

Start to Finish: Becoming a Master Electrician

Apprenticeship

The electrician apprenticeship program is four years in length and must include a minimum of 1,560 hours of on-the-job training for the first three years. Additionally, there are technical training requirements, which consist of eight weeks of training for the first three years. Each of the four years is divided into a 12-month period, and special rules apply to the final (fourth) period.

These additional rules state that a minimum of 1,440 hours and 12 weeks of training must be completed in the fourth year. Further, individuals may challenge the interprovincial exam during this period and be granted their red seal.

Journeymanship

You must complete at least three years of work experience as a journeyman electrician before you can obtain a master electrician certification. There may be breaks in your work experience during this time, but only for the last five years.

Examination

After meeting the prerequisite work experience requirements, potential masters can challenge the Master Electrician Exam, which is administered by the Safety Codes Council. To succeed at this exam, applicants must score at least a 75% average and no less than 60% on either part of the exam.

Work with a Master Electrician Today

Whether you are looking for information about the rigours of being a master electrician or looking for the services of one, contact us today. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can answer your questions and provide helpful information. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Colz Electric is the master electrician that you can trust. Our team of highly trained Calgary electricians has all the hands-on skills and experience required to handle all types of residential and commercial jobs. With 24-hour service, we are ready to come out to your home or business for Calgary electrical services or urgent after-hours electrical needs. Our professional results, client trust and superb value showcase our commitment to providing our customers with 100% satisfaction. Speak to one of our Calgary electricians at 403-770-3030.

Electricity is one of the most beneficial innovations we have the luxury to benefit from in the 21st century. However, it also comes with a fair amount of knowledge, and professionals must devote a significant portion of their lives to understanding this remarkably versatile and dangerous resource, including learning about electrical panel upgrade in Calgary.

Still, for the casual electricity user, this relationship may not exist. For many of us, it is enough to simply flick the switch on and off before calling it a day. But then, how do we improve our electrical systems when it is time to upgrade or install a new piece of equipment? What must we do to ensure there is sufficient electrical power and guards to prevent short circuits?

How Many Breakers Do You Need in your Calgary Electrical Panel?

The breakers in your home are essentially just a hardwired safety device. The main power generated by the power plant exists on one side of the breaker. On the other side are the electrical circuits, outlet and connected device. Only when the breaker is connected do they receive power and function correctly.

So, when looking for electrical panel upgrades in Calgary, the amperage is not actually terribly relevant. Instead, it is the number of spaces for breakers that you should consider. Why is this?

All of the information you hear about calculating electrical load for a building is correct and relevant to master electricians, architects and builders. Still, for the consumer, it is often not a relevant consideration. Unless you are planning to add larger load sizes for extra appliances, the amount of small-amp breakers is already predetermined.

One of the main reasons for this is that amperage is not a consistent measure. If your blender is on, but your garburator isn’t, the amperage is less than if both devices were being used simultaneously. Because the load isn’t consistent, you can add more circuits to the system without issue. Just don’t go putting in energy-sucking equipment after the fact.

Start Your Electrical Upgrades Today!

Your electrical upgrade goals can become a reality with our help! Contact us to get information, quotes and advice about all your electrical questions and needs!

Colz Electric is the master electrician that you can trust. Our team of highly trained Calgary electricians has all the hands-on skills and experience required to handle all types of residential and commercial jobs. With 24-hour service, we are ready to come out to your home or business for Calgary electrical services or urgent after-hours electrical needs. Our professional results, client trust and superb value showcase our commitment to providing our customers with 100% satisfaction. Speak to one of our Calgary electricians at 403-770-3030.

In an increasingly difficult period, investing in home security is seen as a worthwhile investment. The biggest drawback for many people is that security cameras can be quite expensive and a deterrent for many homeowners.

However, having pricing information, and what affects pricing, can go a long way to alienating fears. So before we discuss the cost of security camera installation in Calgary, it is essential to see what can affect the price.

Factors That Impact The Cost of Security Camera Installation

Unmonitored vs Monitored Security Systems

There are two distinct types of security cameras – monitored and unmonitored.

Monitored systems mean that you pay a particular amount every month to an alarm company that offers 24/7 protection. Unmonitored systems are ones that you keep track of on your own.

Choosing the former over the latter will see a rise in costs in terms of security cameras themselves and the installation systems. Still, you do get the added security of having a guard watch your home.

Wired, Wireless, or Wire-Free Cameras

There are three recognized security camera options available:

Wired, which means that the cameras are connected to your internet and power system.
Wireless, which means your cameras are connected wirelessly to your internet system but still require a power cord.
Wire-Free refers to cameras that run off a battery pack and don’t need any wires at all.

Depending on which one you choose will have a significant impact on your installation costs. For example, with wired installation, you’re a little limited in terms of placement, so you will need additional power sockets, which will require extra work.

You also have to consider if you wish to link it to your home automation system. Home automation is now widely-accessible and can link to your security systems. However, connecting the two might see rise installation costs.

Close-up of surveillance camera installation, male hand holds cctv camera

The Location of the Security Cameras

Where you install your security cameras will impact the cost, as you might require additional power sources or data cabling and wires to aid installation.

The Number of Security Cameras

Basic maths here – the more security cameras you need, the more it will cost to install them.

If you are looking to provide coverage for all sectors of your home, it will raise the costs in terms of connectivity and sustainability. You might require additional power sources, and even electrical repairs, if there are issues in the future.

The Cost of Security Camera Installation Cost In Calgary

While it can be hard to find an exact price, having some idea can help invest in security cameras in Calgary.

According to HomeGuide, on average, the cost of installing cameras in Calgary is between $125 to $450 per camera, which includes setup and installation labor. CCTV systems for commercial properties cost more (between $500 to $1,600 for 4-cameras and labor) than residential home surveillance cameras, which cost between $50 to $250 each.

Home Advisor backs this price up, saying that “each camera will range between $100 to $200 for professional installation”. They also mention that “installation can vary drastically depending on system type and number of cameras.”

Regardless of what model or kind of security camera you have purchased or planning to buy, it is wise to consider all the factors that impact the installation costs.

Colz Electric is the master electrician that you can trust. Our team of highly trained Calgary electricians has all the hands-on skills and experience required to handle all types of residential and commercial jobs. With 24-hour service, we are ready to come out to your home, or business for Calgary electrical services, or urgent after-hours electrical needs. Our professional results, as well as trust and value, is how we can provide our customers with 100% satisfaction. Speak to one of our Calgary electricians at 403-770-3030.

When it comes to electrical wires, nothing lasts forever. Eventually, you will need to rewire your home to maintain the quality of your electrical systems. Whether you are remodelling your home, require electrical renovations, or want to improve your property’s safety, it is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your wiring.

Understanding the costs of the rewiring project then is essential. People are shocked to see the price when the work starts and are unwilling to undergo the changes. But if they were provided with the right information – and the reasons for it – they could see why it is a worthwhile investment.

What Affects the Cost of Rewiring?

The Square Footage of the Home

This shouldn’t be a surprise: the larger the home is, the more the rewiring job will cost. As the remodelling will require more materials and work to be completed, the price to the labour will raise the overall cost.

Methods Used to Access Wiring

Depending on the process in which you rewire your home, it will impact the cost of the project. One option, such as removing the drywall to access the wires, can be expensive and time-consuming. Making strategic cuts and fishing for the cables is a cost-effective alternative. You will have to speak to a Calgary electrician to determine what method is best for your home.

The Quality of the New Materials

Wiring is also a factor that can enhance the cost of the project. As with all electrical repairs in Calgary, the quality you choose does affect the price. For wiring, it is advisable to use high-quality materials that can support a wide range of appliances.

electrician at work with tools, puts the bulbs on a lamp at home, electric circuits, electrical wiring

The Calgary Electrician

The labour costs and the rates of Calgary electricians will affect the rewiring price in your home. The more experienced and better the professional, the more likely they will charge for their work, as they will guarantee results and value. Make sure that you do your research and that the electrician you bring in has experience doing rewiring and electric renovations. It can save you money in the long-term.

How Much Does it Cost to Rewire A House?

On average, the cost to rewire a 1,200 square feet house is at least $10,000 for a new home and as much as $30,000 for an old house. It, once again, depends on the factors above and how they impact the process and project. You should conduct research and speak to different Calgary electricians to find a price that suits your budget.

Colz Electric is the master electrician that you can trust. Our team of highly trained Calgary electricians has all the hands-on skills and experience required to handle all types of residential and commercial jobs. With 24-hour service, we are ready to come out to your home, or business for Calgary electrical services, or urgent after-hours electrical needs. Our professional results, as well as trust and value, is how we can provide our customers with 100% satisfaction. Please speak to one of our Calgary electricians at 403-770-3030

An electrician performs many functions related to ordinary household electricity. However, they also perform similar tasks for businesses and corporations. Furthermore, the functions that a journeyman electrician performs will also differ from those of a master electrician. Understanding these differences is an integral part of the career of an electrician, and you can find out more about them just down below.

Core Functions of Calgary Electricians

One of the main functions of an electrician is performing maintenance. Whether you’re dealing with a malfunctioning electrical panel or looking to install additional outlets, a qualified electrician ensures the work is done safely and efficiently. In today’s evolving energy landscape, this also includes modern upgrades like EV charger installation in Calgary, which is becoming increasingly common as more homeowners make the switch to electric vehicles.

Additionally, master electricians play a crucial role in new construction projects. Since they are the only professionals authorized to request electrical permits, their presence is essential on job sites for any new installations—whether it’s wiring a brand-new home, adding a detached garage, or integrating advanced solutions like EV charging infrastructure.

Portrait of smiling young technician woman in factory

A third function of electricians is the upgrading of electrical systems in older homes or buildings. Naturally, as our societies advance, our regulations and standards change, and electrical components are a significant part of these innovations. As well, electrical systems can degrade over time. They may pose a hazard if not addressed in a reasonable amount of time. As a result, you may wish for an electrician to come and upgrade your electrical box, replace wiring, or install new outlets, among other things.

Finally, there are many niche services that electricians may perform. These services range quite a bit, from solar panel installation to home automation services. Or, from data cabling to security system installation. Each of these requires specialized training and dedication to making the project turn out well.

Ultimately, you can consider anything electrical as a part of the duties of an electrician or master electrician.

Where to Find Your Calgary Electrician

Finding a certified and capable electrician in Calgary is not overly complicated. Of course, Colz Electric will perform any of the functions described above, and with friendly and hospitable service. It is as simple as picking up the phone and dialling the number.

Colz Electric is the master electrician that you can trust. Our team of highly trained Calgary electricians has all the hands-on skills and experience required to handle all types of residential and commercial jobs. With 24-hour service, we are ready to come out to your home, or business for Calgary electrical services, or urgent after-hours electrical needs. Our professional results, as well as trust and value, is how we can provide our customers with 100% satisfaction. Please speak to one of our Calgary electricians at 403-770-3030.