At State Electrical Contractors, we understand that your home is your most important investment. That’s why we are committed to providing you with the highest quality of electrical services. Our team of experienced electricians is licensed and insured, and we are fully equipped to handle any electrical project, big or small.

Why Upgrade Your Electrical System?

There are many reasons why you may want to upgrade your electrical system. Some of the most common reasons include:

• To improve safety: Older electrical systems may not meet current safety standards. Upgrading your system can help to reduce the risk of electrical fires and other hazards.
• To increase your home’s value: A home with an updated electrical system is more likely to sell for a higher price.
• To make your home more energy-efficient: Newer electrical systems are often more energy-efficient than older systems. This can save you money on your energy bills.
• To add new features: New electrical systems can be used to add new features to your home, such as smart home technology or a home theater system.

• Electrical panel upgrades: We can upgrade your old electrical panel to a newer, more efficient model.
• Circuit breaker upgrades: We can upgrade your old circuit breakers to newer, more advanced models.
• Outlet and switch upgrades: We can upgrade your old outlets and switches to newer, more stylish models.
• Wiring upgrades: We can upgrade your old wiring to newer, more reliable wiring.
• Light fixture installation: We can install new light fixtures in your home.
• Generator installation: We can install a generator in your home to provide backup power in the event of a power outage.
• Smart home technology installation: We can install smart home technology in your home to give you more control over your home’s systems.

Outlet and Switch Upgrades for Your Home

Upgrading your home’s outlets and switches enhances both safety and functionality. Modern outlets offer improved safety features such as ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) which reduce the risk of electrical shock, and tamper-resistant outlets, ideal for homes with children. Updating your switches can introduce dimmers, timers, and smart switches, providing better control over lighting and energy usage. These upgrades not only improve daily convenience but also contribute to your home’s overall value and energy efficiency. Contact State Electrical Contractors for professional installation and reliable service.

Types of Electrical Outlets in Phoenix, Arizona Homes

GFCI vs. AFCI in Phoenix, Arizona

When it comes to protecting your home in Phoenix and Maricopa County, AZ, understanding the difference between Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) and Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) is essential for electrical safety.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

GFCIs are crucial for areas exposed to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces. They protect against electrical shock by detecting ground faults and cutting off the power. This makes them a vital safety feature for preventing accidents in areas where water and electricity might mix.

Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI)

AFCIs are designed to prevent electrical fires by detecting dangerous arcs in the wiring caused by damaged or deteriorating wires. They are essential in living spaces like bedrooms and family rooms, where such faults can occur unnoticed, posing a significant fire risk.

Local Importance

Given Phoenix’s unique climate, with intense heat and occasional monsoons, having both GFCI and AFCI outlets installed ensures comprehensive protection. GFCIs are particularly beneficial in outdoor and wet areas, while AFCIs provide critical fire prevention in dry, interior spaces.

Replacing Aluminum Wiring in Your Phoenix, AZ Home

Why Aluminum Wiring is in Older Homes

During the 1960s and 1970s, aluminum wiring was a popular choice for electrical installations due to its lower cost compared to copper. This cost-effective solution made it a common feature in many homes built during this era, particularly in older neighborhoods such as Encanto, Arcadia, and Alhambra in Phoenix.

Why Aluminum Wiring Should Be Replaced

1. Safety Concerns: Aluminum wiring is prone to oxidation and corrosion, which can lead to overheating and increased fire risks. These issues are exacerbated by the high temperatures and electrical load demands typical in Phoenix homes.
2. Connection Problems: Aluminum expands and contracts more than copper when exposed to heat, leading to loose connections over time. This can result in arcing, sparks, and potential fire hazards at outlets and switches.
3. Compatibility Issues: Modern electrical devices and fixtures are often designed to work with copper wiring, meaning that aluminum wiring can cause compatibility issues and reduced efficiency.
4. Insurance and Code Compliance: Homes with aluminum wiring may face higher insurance premiums and may not comply with current electrical codes, affecting both safety and resale value.

Benefits of Replacing Aluminum Wiring

1. Enhanced Safety: Replacing aluminum wiring with copper wiring significantly reduces the risk of electrical fires and improves overall home safety.
2. Increased Reliability: Copper wiring provides stable and durable connections, ensuring efficient and trouble-free electrical system performance.
3. Improved Compatibility: Copper wiring is compatible with modern electrical devices and fixtures, ensuring better performance and longevity.
4. Code Compliance and Lower Insurance Premiums: Upgrading to copper wiring ensures your home meets current electrical codes, which can lower your insurance premiums and increase your home’s market value.

How to Tell If Your Home Has Aluminum Wiring

1. Year of Construction: Homes built between the mid-1960s and late-1970s are more likely to have aluminum wiring.
2. Inspection: Check your electrical panel, outlets, and switches for aluminum wiring. Aluminum wiring is often labeled with “Al” or “Aluminum.”
3. Professional Assessment: For a definitive answer, have a licensed electrician from State Electrical Contractors inspect your wiring. Our experts can identify aluminum wiring and recommend the best course of action.

Additional Considerations

• Retrofitting Options: If full replacement isn’t feasible, consider retrofitting with approved connectors like COPALUM or AlumiConn, which can make aluminum wiring safer by improving connections.
• Local Expertise: Given Phoenix’s climate and specific building styles, local electricians understand the unique challenges of dealing with aluminum wiring in this area. State Electrical Contractors have extensive experience ensuring homes in Phoenix are safe and up to code.

Does finding a reliable local electrician feel like navigating this desert? State Electrical Contractors is an oasis in the hot Arizona terrain, offering trusted and dependable services in Phoenix, AZ. With skilled, licensed electricians, we bring quality and safety to every project. Don’t get lost in a sea of options—choose the best. Contact State Electrical Contractors today for top-notch service and the peace of mind you deserve.

When you choose State Electrical Contractors, you can be confident that you are getting the best possible service. We offer a variety of benefits, including:

• Licensed and insured: Our team of electricians is licensed and insured, so you can be sure that you are getting the highest quality of service.
• Experienced: Our team of electricians has years of experience, so you can be sure that your project will be completed correctly and efficiently.
• Reliable: We are committed to providing our customers with reliable service. We will always arrive on time and complete your project to your satisfaction.
• Affordable: We offer competitive pricing on all of our services. We understand that you have a budget, and we will work with you to find a solution that fits your needs.

If you are in need of residential electrical upgrades, please contact State Electrical Contractors today. We would be happy to discuss your needs and provide you with a free estimate.