Man and woman sitting on a gray couch watching TV in their living room.

What’s a Whole-House Surge Protector & Do You Need One?

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Even brief flickers or blips in your power can affect your home’s electrical system and appliances. In areas with frequent storms or inconsistent power these small surges can add up, sometimes damaging electronics or costly appliances. 

A whole-house surge protector acts like a shield, helping keep your home’s electrical system safe and preventing unexpected repair bills. It’s a simple, smart way to protect your home and everything in it.

In this guide, we’ll explore how whole-house surge protectors work, why they’re worth the investment, and why professional installation is the smartest way to safeguard your home. 

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Homes in a residential neighborhood with grey road and storm clouds overhead.

This is How Moisture Can Cause Electrical Problems in Your Home

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If you live in the Pacific Northwest, you know rain is basically part of the scenery. But all that moisture in the air doesn’t just make for soggy shoes; it can affect your home’s electrical system too. Can damp conditions actually cause electrical problems inside your house? The short answer is yes.

In this post, we’ll break down how heavy rain and high humidity can lead to issues like tripped circuit breakers, power outages, and other moisture-related electrical problems. More importantly, we’ll share practical tips to protect your home and keep your electrical system safe, no matter how wet it gets outside.  

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Home electrical panel with switches and circuit breakers.

Is Your Home’s Circuit Breaker Tripping Randomly?

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A tripping circuit breaker can be more than just an annoyance. It can leave you wondering what’s going on behind the walls. While it’s usually not an emergency, repeated trips can signal underlying electrical issues that deserve attention. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the common causes, what you can safely check yourself, and when it’s time to bring in a professional.

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Two-story gray shingled house with large windows, surrounded by green grass, bushes, and trees with vibrant fall foliage.

Fall & Winter Energy-Saving Tips for Pacific Northwest Homeowners

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As the long, sunny days of summer fade and crisp autumn air settles across the Pacific Northwest, it’s time to start preparing your home for fall and winter. Colder months often mean turning up the thermostat or enjoying the warmth of a fireplace. While cozy, these habits can increase your energy costs depending on the type of heating you use.

Many homeowners wonder how to stay comfortable without inflating their energy bills. In this guide, we’ll share six practical energy-saving tips for fall and winter, from simple everyday habits to easy home improvements. With these strategies, you can stay cozy and comfortable all season long while keeping your electricity costs under control.
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Residential electrician with clipboard tests a home electrical panel.

5 Benefits of Upgrading Your Home’s Electrical Panel

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Your home’s electrical panel is the heart of your electrical system, powering everything from kitchen appliances to home offices. When the panel is outdated or overloaded, it can create safety risks, increase energy bills, and limit your ability to run multiple devices at once.

Upgrading your electrical panel is a smart way to improve safety, efficiency, and convenience in your home. But how do you know when it’s time for an upgrade, and what benefits can you expect? In this guide, we’ll cover the top five benefits of upgrading your electrical panel and answer common questions homeowners have about this essential home improvement.

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LED bulb on top of electrical bill.

Here Are 6 Ways to Save On Your Electric Bills Right Now

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In today’s economy, every penny counts. Homeowners are often looking for simple ways to save on their electric bills each month. Luckily, there are a handful of easy changes homeowners can make to save a few dollars. 

If you want to stop spending so much on electricity, you’ve come to the right place. From cleaning your refrigerator’s coils to upgrading your home’s wiring, these tips will help you save money in the long run. 

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Man with beard wearing an orange t-shirt adjusts his smart thermostat to 74 degrees.

Programmable vs. Smart Thermostats: Which Is Better?

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Rising electricity costs are outpacing inflation, making energy efficiency more important than ever for homeowners looking to cut bills. One surprising factor? The thermostat controlling your heating and cooling. But with so many options, how do you choose the most cost-effective one?

Get the details on the key differences between programmable and smart thermostats and learn how each can impact your energy savings. Plus, find out why thermostat installation isn’t a DIY task and how professionals help can make a real difference. Stay informed to discover which thermostat could save you money and boost your home’s efficiency.

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Craigslist web page.

Can You Trust a Craigslist Electrician? Read This First

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Thinking about tackling electrical work on your own or hiring someone from sites like Craigslist, Nextdoor, or TaskRabbit to save a few bucks? While those platforms are great for many tasks, electrical jobs are a different story. Electrical work requires expertise and proper licensing to keep your home safe and running smoothly. Learn why choosing a licensed electrician is the smartest move for any homeowner needing electrical repairs or upgrades.

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Electrician wears safety gloves while fixing a home electrical socket.

Find the Best Residential Electricians in Oregon & Washington

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Wondering if it’s time to call a residential electrician? Even small issues like flickering lights or tripped breakers can be signs that your home’s electrical system needs attention. A licensed electrician brings the expertise to keep everything running safely and smoothly.

If you’re in Oregon or Washington, Powering Pacific Northwest makes it easy to find trusted professionals in your area. Keep reading to discover the benefits of working with a residential electrician and how to choose the right one for your home.

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Thermometer showing a temperature of 100 degrees.

Beat the Heat: 6 AC Electrical Problems Every Homeowner Should Know

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As summer heatwaves intensify across the U.S., particularly in the Pacific Northwest, homeowners are relying more than ever on their air conditioning to stay cool. In 2024, Oregon recorded its sixth-warmest year on record, with some cities sweltering through five consecutive days over 100°F. But with the rise in AC use comes an increase in electrical problems—issues that can quickly escalate if not addressed. Here’s what you need to know to keep your AC running smoothly during the hottest months.

Discover six common AC electrical problems to watch for this summer and know when it’s time to call in a professional. Learn how to identify these issues and avoid discomfort during the heat.

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