Circuit breakers in switchboard.

How to reset a safety switch?

Posted Posted in Electrical Safety

From time to time, it is common for your safety switch to trip to prevent any shocks occuring. When this occurs, especially for the first time, it may be daunting, but don't worry, this page is designed to help with a step-by-step process.

Circuit breakers in switchboard.

First of all, take down a note on what you may have been using, time and weather conditions, as this information can help resolve any further issues that may arise.

Where do I start?

Most safety switches are positioned alongside their circuit breaker or fuse counterparts and can easily be identified by looking for the "Test" button. Some safety switches may even be incorporated with a circuit breaker to make the most use of a switchboard and can almost look identical to a standard circuit breaker, so again keep an eye out for the "Test" button.

When looking for the safety switch that has been affected, you should find it in the off position also known as the "O" position. If you cannot find any devices in the "O" position, you may have a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker. If you still have fuses in your switchboard, it is best to turn off the power to the whole premesis and one-by-one as to not forget which fuse goes where, remove the fuses to check the wire and place back in firmly.

Remember your safety and that of your family is paramount and if in any doubt, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Once identifying the safety switch...

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Contact us if you wish to discuss any of the above strategies or any issues you may find. This is produced as a guide only and any advise given is to be taken with your own personal circumstances in mind.

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Tax Time Saver 2018 {expired}

Posted Posted in Expired Promotions
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    We thank you for choosing Gimpel Electrics as your preferred electrical contractor.

    Money Jar

    Winter Money Saving Tips!

    Posted Posted in Electrical Safety

    As we make our way into the winter months, the price of our power bills tend to rise. We bring out the heaters and electric blankets, just to keep ourselves warm for the season. For this reason, we have created a quick guide to keeping you warm without your power bills having to go up. Here are some tips to help you save money this winter.

    Money Jar
    Step 1. Close the curtains

    This may be an easy one, but it is often overlooked. Closing curtains in the rooms where you are heating helps by retaining a constant temperature and reducing outside influence. Glass is not a good insulator so thicker curtains will be more effective. Alternatively, take advantage of nature's heating element and allow the sun to hit the windows to naturally heat the room.

    Step 2. Set your thermostat lower

    Setting your temperature 1 degree lower may save approximately 10% of your heating charge. Having a temperature of around 20 degrees celsius is comfortable and won't burn your back pocket. The same applies in regards to your hot water system. We suggest setting the temperature to 60 degrees celsius where possible, as higher temperatures may result in more expensive running costs.

    Step 3. Add thermal insulation into the ceiling

    The most cost effective way to save money this winter and in the future, is to install thermal insulation. Insulation comes in many forms and acts like a big blanket to keep the heat in during the winter times. With many options available including wool, fibreglass and polyester keeping your home warmer this winter, your energy bills will love the attention. Please contact a licensed installer to ensure the installation is safe and meets Australian standards. If you are concerned about the safety of existing insulation in relation to downlights or electrical fittings, we encourage you to contact us as soon as possible.

    Step 4. Stop draughts from entering

    One of the simplest methods to reduce heat loss in your home is by stopping draughts. Sealing off gaps around doors and windows can prevent around 25% of heat loss during the winter time. By using some self-adhesive weather stripping around these small gaps you will be able to prevent cold seaping in and you can relax peacefully knowing that you are achieving the most efficient use of your heating where possible.

    Step 5. Install energy efficient lighting

    Installing energy efficient lighting like LED, can drastically reduce your overall power bill all year round. Halogen and incandescent lights and globes can consume as much as 10 times the amount of electricity to produce a similar light output. Some LED's can simply be replaced by a home owner, however, it is important that they are compatible with existing fixtures. This includes dimmer switches, as many older dimmers are not compatible with newer technologies and can damage both the new light source and dimmer iteslf. If you are unsure about what is available, or do not feel comfortable replacing these lamps please do not hesitate to call us to arrange a quote.

    Remember your safety and that of your family is paramount and if in any doubt, please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss any of the above strategies or any issues you may have. This is produced as a guide only and any advise given is to be taken with your own personal circumstances in mind.

    Stormy Farmhouse

    Are you storm ready?

    Posted Posted in Electrical Safety

    During the Queensland Storm Season, our electricians are called to homes and offices which have experienced a nearby lightning strike to find many appliances affected by the surge. With almost every home and office these days having computers, entertainment systems, televisions, pools and the ever growing complex technology available, now is the time to prepare.

    Stormy Farmhouse

    Being storm prepared is vital this day and age and installing a surge diverter into your switchboard may help by delivering the lighting strike down to earth. These devices sit within with your circuit breakers in your switchboard and are easily identifiable when ready to change.

    Is a surge diverter required for everyday use?

    A common misconception around surge diverters, is that they are only used during a storm. While surge diverters are used effectively during storms, there are also smaller surges that happen during your day to day life that you may not be aware of. These smaller surges can affect your home appliances, powerpoints and light fittings and can deteriorate these over time.

    How does a surge diverter differ from my surge powerboard

    Having a plug-n-play surge powerboard is great as a start, this helps by giving your selected appliances added protection from finer electrical surges and work in conjunction with your switchboard surge diverter.

    A surge diverter found in your switchboard, helps by delivering the damaging voltages down to earth via your home earthing system and helps prevent larger spikes from occurring. This style of surge protection also helps by protecting anything plugged into your home, even if you do not have a plug-n-play option available.

    Remember your safety and that of your family is paramount and if in any doubt, please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss any of the above strategies or any issues you may have. This is produced as a guide only and any advise given is to be taken with your own personal circumstances in mind.