Introduction Have you ever thought about what keeps your lights twinkling and your coffee brewing each morning? Yes, it's the silent, invisible hero of your home: the wiring. But not all wiring is created equal, and its lifespan can be as varied as the music genres on your playlist. So in this article, I'm about to send you on an electrifying journey into the world of home wiring. I'll share tales from the trenches, tips to keep you safe, and tricks to ensure your home's electric vibes keep flowing harmoniously. The Champions of Conductivity: Copper vs. Aluminium Copper Wiring: The Rock Star Copper wiring is the Mick Jagger of the electrical world: it's been around forever, and it just gets better with age. Its superior conductivity, durability, and resistance to corrosion make it a top choice for electricians and homeowners alike. But it's not just about being strong and flexible; copper wiring has a certain quality that allows it to carry more current without getting too hot under the collar. Remember back in some of the older buildings and theatres and so on, where the lights were dim and flickering? The charm was there, but the lights? Not so much. Flickering like a candle in the wind. Looking within its walls revealed copper wiring that, despite its age, was still in tip-top shape. A bit of tweaking, some modern touches, and it was singing like it was her debut all over again. Aluminium Wiring: The One-Hit Wonder Now, let's look at aluminium wiring. It had its moment in the limelight. It was affordable and plentiful, it seemed like a good idea at the time. But as we've learned, aluminium tends to expand and contract more than what copper does, leading to loose connections and, in some cases, a fire hazard. Typically the homeowners will notice their lights flickering like a strobe at a disco. With a bit of detective work, it would be traced it back to those aluminium connections. The ultimate solution? A full copper upgrade. It's like replacing the backup singers with a full orchestra—suddenly, everything was in harmony. Environmental Impacts on Wiring Longevity You might not think it, but the environment your house sits in can play lead guitar or villain in the ballad of your wiring's life. Just like a band on a world tour, different climates and venues can either be a smooth gig or a tough battle for longevity. The Coastal Encore Take, for example, homes by the seaside. Romantic? Absolutely. Harsh on wiring? You bet. Salt air can be like an uninvited backstage guest to metal, causing corrosion and reducing the lifespan of your wiring. The solution involves not just updating the wiring but also incorporating materials and methods to shield it from the harsh environment. It's like giving the wiring its own cozy, corrosion-resistant green room. The Damp Basement Gig And then there's moisture - One we all know and love in the older house wiring in Sheffield. It's your wiring's silent critic! Basements, especially damp ones, can be a challenging venue for wiring to perform its best. Moisture can lead to corrosion, and in some cases, dangerous short circuits. I see a lot of basements locally where the wiring was suffering from the damp conditions. I had to reroute some of the circuits, add better insulation, and introduce dehumidifiers to dry out the air. The result? A standing ovation from the homeowner and a safer, drier basement. The Heavy Metal Tour: Understanding Load and Usage Every appliance in your home, from the headlining dishwasher to the supporting act of your LED lights, adds to the electrical load, just like adding more dates to a tour! But overload the circuit, and you're setting the stage for a showstopper nobody wants: an electrical fault! Balancing the Band Balancing the load is like arranging a setlist for a concert. You don't want all your heavy hitters playing at once, overwhelming the system. Spreading out the energy consumption can keep the harmony and prevent your system from tripping. I once helped a family whose home was constantly tripping breakers during their dinner time, where all appliances on full blast. We rearranged their "setlist," adding some dedicated circuits for the heavy users (Such as Oven and Hob), and suddenly, every meal was like an encore performance with no interruptions. Maintenance: The Unsung Hero of Wiring Longevity In the world of rock 'n' roll, behind every great performance is a crew tirelessly checking every cable, tuning every instrument. The same goes for your home's wiring. Regular check-ups by a qualified electrician can spot a damaged, worn or corroded cable, as well as a loose or tired outlet before it becomes a headline act for the wrong reasons. A Close Call Behind the Walls There's a story I like to share about a routine maintenance check that turned into a lifesaving gig. A home, seemingly serene and in perfect harmony, was hiding a sinister secret behind its walls: an overheating connection, worn down by years of unnoticed overloading and vibration (through day to day use) in the house too. It was a disaster waiting for its cue. But, thanks to a scheduled maintenance check, I caught it just in time, replacing the worn sections and averting what could have been a tragic finale. This can happen with several things around the home such as switches, sockets, shower pullcords and also other places where there is a connection made (or a damaged section or weakness in a cable). Even worse are those buried Junction Boxes, because those aren't visible under the floors or above the ceilings if they start to overheat!! Modern wiring removes the need for any buried connections that can come loose, overheat and catch fire. Upgrades: Keeping Your Home's Wiring in the Limelight Just as bands evolve, adding new sounds and instruments to stay relevant, your home's wiring needs upgrades to keep up with modern demands. With the advent of high-tech appliances and smart home devices, yesterday's wiring may not hold the tune for today's technological symphony. From Vintage to Virtuoso Many homes have older wiring and minimal protection that is not capable of acting quickly with faults today. Even some of the more recent updates are not as fast acting as the latest and does not have the individual control, where half of the circuits tripping is an inconvenience! Add to that New Devices with LED and DC Circuits (Such as washing machines) can actually PREVENT even some of the more recent devices from tripping when they should! I recently embarked on an upgrade tour, modernizing of such an older home, updating their wiring while preserving the home's vintage charm. The result was a perfect blend of classic and contemporary, ensuring their home stayed safe and sound, ready for the next generation's playlist. DIY vs. Professional: Knowing Your Limits In the DIY era, it's tempting to take on the role of roadie, electrician, and sound tech for your home's electrical system. But just as tuning a guitar requires a certain skill, so does tinkering with your wiring. A Shocking Attempt at DIY A memorable encore in my career was helping a homeowner (An Engineer in this case!) who thought replacing an outlet was as easy as playing air guitar. A simple task turned into a shocking experience, literally, leading to a nasty shock and a call for help. It was a stark reminder that some gigs are best left to the professionals, ensuring the safety of the audience—your family. You would not believe the amount of calls from wives that I get, telling me to come and fix their husband's errors! Best to let me do those jobs quickly, rather than you taking a long time and still getting it wrong. Let's both do what we're best at ;-) Future-Proofing Your Home's Electrical System As we look to the horizon, the future of home electrification is bright, with smart homes, electric vehicles, and renewable energy sources becoming the headlining acts. Future-proofing your home's electrical system is like securing VIP tickets to the greatest show on Earth. The Smart Home Encore Imagine a home where every device communicates in harmony, optimizing energy use and providing unparalleled comfort and convenience. That's the smart home, and it requires an electrical system that's not just a backup band but a full-fledged orchestra. Upgrading to accommodate smart devices, from thermostats to refrigerators, is like rehearsing for the biggest gig of your life, ensuring your home is ready to rock into the future. Conclusion So there you have it, a backstage pass to the world of home wiring. From the materials that make up the backbone of your electrical system to the environmental factors that test its limits, understanding the intricacies of your home's wiring is key to ensuring a safe and harmonious living space. Whether it's time for a routine check-up, an upgrade to accommodate the latest tech, or a call to a professional for those high-voltage tasks, taking care of your home's wiring is like fine-tuning your favourite instrument, ensuring it's always ready for the next big performance. Remember, your home's wiring is the unsung hero, working behind the scenes to power your life's soundtrack. Treat it with care, and it'll ensure your home remains a haven of comfort, safety, and energy efficiency. So, plug in, turn up the volume, and let the good vibes flow, secure in the knowledge that your home's wiring is up to the task of keeping the show going.

Resetting Faults after a Blown Fuse or Tripped Breaker ... Watch the video above to learn how to SAFELY sort out a blown fuse or tripped breaker OR how to get a socket working before the Electrician can turn up and fix the remaining ones! MAKE SURE You also PRINT OUT the label at the bottom of this post. Stick it onto your Fuseboard. That way you can watch it ANY time if your fuseboard trips and the house plunges into darkness!! [VIDEO TRANSCRIPT] Hi if your fuse has just blown or your breaker has just tripped on your board or distribution board ... I'm going to show you a safe way of either fixing it yourself so that you can get the power back on. Or, if you can't do that, and I'll tell you how to check, then you might be able to use something to get you running again so that when an electrician comes later on or the next day you still have some power to get that freezer and things back on. What I'm also going to tell you at the end is how you can ensure that you always have this information at hand should you need it. Because you never know when it's going to trip, you never know what's going to cause tripping. An appliance, the weather outside and a socket, anything. So here goes, the first thing you need to do, if you have something trip, it might be one circuit, for example sockets. Or it could be lights, or it could be multiple circuits where a few things have gone and you've lost, say, the oven, the lights, the sockets, and so on. That is normally when an RCD device trips and multiple circuits are controlled by one device. So anyway, whatever it is that's gone, you need to first go around that. So for example, if it's sockets, you need to first go around and unplug. Everything from the socket circuit, if it's sockets. If it's lights, that's a bit more difficult because you can't visually see what's on. But hopefully from memory you can remember what was switched on and what was switched off. So even if it's an outside light, remember sometimes these outside lights are left on. Switch it off so that you can test. We're not doing anything yet. We're still going around to make sure everything is disconnected. So that you can then later try it back on. One of the things that people often forget is a fused spur. So it might be a fuse holder with a switch like this one, and you would switch it off. Or it might be just a fuse holder where you would just get a screwdriver and take the fuse out. How do you know if the power, what's still got power on and what hasn't? Hopefully you should see, but if you can't, then maybe if you don't have a plugin tester, you can use a table lamp and you can see if sockets are on them. So anyway, you've gone around and you've disconnected all of the things outta the socket don't work, that don't work, and you've, uh, switched off the lights now and only now should you try that breaker back up or that RCD because if you try and there's still a fault on there. You can risk damaging that breaker, parts on the board, deteriorating the wiring more, and that sort of thing. So go to it, see if it works. If it does, great. If it doesn't, this is where you should ask an electrician to come and help. And if they can't get there till the next day, you need to then go to this next step. which is to see if you can get some power on in the meantime. So to get some power on in the meantime, let's say the half of your circuits have gone off, another half is still working. You might have a socket circuit upstairs and one downstairs, and you've lost the downstairs. You might have all of the up and down sockets gone off, but you might still have some in the kitchen. You might have all of those gone off, but you might have one in the basement. Or, you might have a double width cooker switch that has a socket on. So there may be somewhere, if you're lucky, If it's been separated like that of having a spare socket somewhere. So what you can do just to make your freezer run for example, maybe the Wi Fi, don't go mad, just to get temporary supply on the thing that you want most urgently, you can take an extension from that to it. I wouldn't do it with things like washing machines, heaters and powerful things like that. Just lower power things until the electrician gets there. Now, more importantly, how do you also ensure that you always have this information to hand when you need it? Because I've told you this now, but you might forget it when the time comes. So ideally what you want is something on your fuse board that tells you this instruction. So what I've done is I've got a, um, there's both a website, which you'll see the link of somewhere. And a QR code, and you can print out that QR code, place it on your board, and then next time you have a fault, scan the QR code, it will play this video, and you can go through it again, because in the panic sometimes you forget to try certain things, and this video will remind you. [END OF TRANSCRIPT]

Sorting Damp or Flood Damage in Sheffield: Your Essential Guide By now we all know too well about the rain of Sheffield (good old steep hills eh?) and the issues it causes. We're also familiar with the basements and damp in many of the houses too (Check out LABS to see more). But should you switch a light or socket on in a damp or flooded area? Is it actually SAFE? Or do you risk shock or damage to wiring and accessories instead? Let's dive in and take a look at a few things relating to damp, floods and wiring ... If you’ve got a ceiling dripping or damp wall in floods, then be careful! If you are already seeing some damp appearing at the surface level (ceilings or walls) then it is likely already even wetter inside any nearby sockets, lights or switches. Even if what you see is minimal! Another angle you should think about is this ... Is cable actually waterproof? Or is it affected by damp? Of course here i'm talking about regular household cables (mostly twin and earth cables that is buried in the ceiling or walls). This has an outer insulation, with two cables inside, each of which also have their own insulation. So you'd think that maybe that entitled it to be dunked in water and stay watertight forever, right? Well the short answer is that water (and even mild damp!) in the cable deteriorates it in terms of the effectiveness of the insulation. It's slow but it seeps into the cable and the whole cross section of the insulation ultimately becomes more and more damp over time. When testing out cables in even slightly damp basements, these readings can be worse than in a dry area. So this shows that yes, it does get affected by damp and water. This means NO, it is NOT waterproof! So ... cables are NOT waterproof, or at least they do get affected by damp and water, EVEN IF THINGS STILL SEEM TO BE WORKING WELL!!!! Note that working well does not guarantee good condition of cables and sockets, switches, lights and so on. Obviously high level water damage from a flood in a house or shop will need to be isolated at the fuseboard and for an emergency flood damage company to take over. There are several flood damage companies in and around Sheffield as well as national companies. Most likely your insurer will arrange a flood damage company so that you don't have to find one. But where there is a dampness through brickwork or slow leaking through the various building fabrics, those circuits affected near areas of damp and flooding should be turned off for prevention of shock risk. Once the rain has stopped and any leaks or brickwork or construction issues are fixed, the walls must first be dried out before restoring power (often with special heaters in ventilated rooms). Finally the wiring should then be PROPERLY TESTED AND VISUALLY INSPECTED BY AN ELECTRICIAN BEFORE SWITCHING THE SUPPLY BACK ON!! There are many electricians in Sheffield who can deal with damp and water related issues, who can work with the emergency flood but make sure you choose wisely in order to keep the insurer's happy. This means checking that they will give all the correct paperwork from Electrical Testing Certificates (EICRs) to Installation Certificated for any new wiring that is installed after repairing the flood or damp issues. SO remember the rule: If it’s damp use a battery lamp! Don't switch the light or you'll get a fright! Don't knock it, stay away from those sockets? But most of all - get the professionals.

Emergency Callout Services: Your Trusted Electrician in Sheffield Introduction Electrical emergencies can strike at any time, leaving you in a state of panic and vulnerability. When faced with a sudden power outage, a sparking socket, or any other electrical emergency, you need a reliable electrician who can promptly respond to your distress call. Your local Electrician in Sheffield, our team at S Barker Electrical Ltd understands the urgency and importance of providing swift and efficient emergency callout services. With over 34 years of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we are your trusted partner in handling electrical emergencies with expertise and care. In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into the significance of emergency callout work, shed light on the comprehensive services we offer, share customer experiences, discuss preventative measures, and showcase our commitment to being the go-to electrician in Sheffield. Understanding Electrical Emergencies To comprehend the value of emergency callout services, it's crucial to understand what constitutes an electrical emergency. Electrical emergencies can vary in nature and severity, and we will discuss common scenarios that require urgent attention. These may include power outages, electrical shocks, burning smells, sparking outlets, malfunctioning appliances, and more. We will provide detailed explanations of each situation, highlighting the potential risks and dangers associated with these emergencies. Furthermore, we will emphasize the importance of seeking professional assistance during electrical emergencies. Attempting to address these issues without the necessary knowledge and experience can lead to further complications and even jeopardize personal safety. We will stress the significance of relying on licensed and qualified electricians who possess the expertise to handle these situations effectively and safely. The Importance of Prompt Response When it comes to electrical emergencies, time is of the essence. In this section, we will delve into the importance of a prompt response from an electrician during such critical situations. We will explain how delays can exacerbate the risks, potentially causing more extensive damage or even endangering lives. By providing real-life examples and case studies, we will demonstrate the detrimental consequences that can arise from delayed or inadequate emergency response. These examples will showcase the potential hazards, financial costs, and inconveniences associated with neglected or mishandled electrical emergencies. To highlight our commitment to providing timely assistance, we will share the strategies and resources we have in place to ensure rapid response times. Our team of highly skilled electricians is equipped with the necessary tools and expertise to address urgent electrical issues efficiently. We will explain how our streamlined communication systems and 24/7 availability allow us to promptly attend to emergency calls in Sheffield and the surrounding areas. Comprehensive Emergency Services In this section, we will showcase the wide range of emergency services we offer as your trusted electrician in Sheffield. We will provide an in-depth overview of each service, explaining how our team handles various electrical emergencies effectively and safely. Our services may include power restoration, fault diagnosis and repair, circuit breaker tripping issues, emergency lighting solutions, electrical panel repairs, wiring repairs, electrical system upgrades, and more. For each service, we will highlight the importance of quick and accurate problem identification, followed by the implementation of appropriate solutions. Furthermore, we will delve into the tools, equipment, and technologies we utilize to expedite the emergency response process. From state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to a comprehensive inventory of replacement parts, we will discuss how our resources enable us to address emergencies promptly and efficiently. Customer Testimonials To reinforce our reputation as a reliable emergency electrician in Sheffield, we will feature testimonials from satisfied customers who have experienced our exceptional emergency callout services firsthand. These testimonials will provide real-life examples of how we have successfully resolved electrical emergencies, showcasing our expertise, professionalism, and dedication to customer care. Customers will share their experiences of our prompt response, effective problem-solving skills, and the peace of mind they experienced knowing they could rely on us during stressful situations. These testimonials will serve as proof of our commitment to delivering high-quality emergency callout services and will instill confidence in potential customers who may be in need of immediate electrical assistance. We will also include case studies that highlight specific emergency situations we have handled in the past. These case studies will outline the challenges faced, the steps taken to address the emergency, and the successful outcomes achieved. By presenting real-world scenarios, we aim to provide a deeper understanding of our capabilities and how we approach different types of emergencies. See our Reviews page here Preventative Measures and Maintenance While emergency callouts are essential for immediate assistance, we believe that taking preventative measures and investing in regular maintenance can help minimize the risk of future emergencies. In this section, we will emphasize the importance of proactive electrical safety practices. We will discuss the significance of periodic electrical inspections and the benefits they offer. These inspections can identify potential issues before they escalate into emergencies, ensuring the reliability and safety of your electrical system. We will outline the key components of an electrical inspection, including checking wiring, outlets, switches, circuit breakers, grounding systems, and more. Furthermore, we will provide practical tips for homeowners and businesses to enhance electrical safety. These may include guidelines for safe appliance usage, the importance of surge protection devices, proper outlet maintenance, and the significance of avoiding overloaded circuits. By implementing these preventative measures, individuals can reduce the likelihood of electrical emergencies and create a safer environment for themselves and their families. We will also highlight the advantages of scheduled maintenance services. Regular maintenance visits by our experienced electricians can help identify and address potential issues proactively, preventing emergencies from occurring. We will explain how our maintenance programs can extend the lifespan of electrical systems, improve energy efficiency, and save costs in the long run. Conclusion In conclusion, when faced with electrical emergencies in Sheffield, you need a reliable and responsive electrician who can provide immediate assistance. Through this comprehensive blog post, we have emphasized the significance of emergency callout services and their ability to address urgent electrical issues promptly and efficiently. We have highlighted the importance of a prompt response, showcased our comprehensive range of emergency services, shared testimonials from satisfied customers, discussed preventative measures, and emphasized the value of regular maintenance. At S Barker Electrical Ltd we take pride in being your trusted electrician in Sheffield, dedicated to delivering the highest level of service during critical situations. Our team of skilled electricians is available 24/7, equipped with the expertise, tools, and resources necessary to handle any electrical emergency with professionalism and care. Remember, during an electrical emergency, time is of the essence. Do not hesitate to contact us on 0114 419 0020 for immediate assistance. Our priority is your safety, peace of mind, and a swift resolution to any electrical emergency you may encounter. Trust S Barker Electrical Ltd to be your reliable partner when it matters the most. To get more information like this, join our Facebook Page : https://www.facebook.com/ukelectrician Thanks, Simon

4.5 Reasons You Should Hire a Top-notch Electrician Introduction: When it comes to electrical work, cutting corners or settling for anything less than the best can lead to costly mistakes and safety hazards. That's why it's crucial to employ a great electrician who brings expertise, experience, and professionalism to the table. In this blog post, we'll explore 4.5 compelling reasons why hiring a top-notch electrician is a smart decision for any electrical project or issue. From ensuring safety and compliance to saving time and money, let's dive into why you should never compromise when it comes to electrical expertise. Reason 1: Safety and Expertise A great electrician possesses the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure safety is a top priority in every project they undertake. They are well-versed in electrical codes, regulations, and best practices, reducing the risk of accidents or hazards that could jeopardize your well-being or property. Reason 2: Quality Workmanship An exceptional electrician takes pride in their work and strives for excellence in every task. Whether it's installing new electrical systems, repairing faulty wiring, or troubleshooting electrical issues, they bring a level of precision and attention to detail that guarantees top-notch workmanship. Reason 3: Experience and Problem-solving Abilities With experience comes the ability to handle various electrical challenges effectively. A great electrician has encountered a wide range of issues throughout their career and has the expertise to diagnose problems accurately and provide efficient solutions, saving you time and headaches. Reason 4: Long-term Cost Savings By hiring a skilled electrician, you invest in long-term cost savings. Their expertise ensures that the job is done right the first time, minimizing the need for future repairs or rework. Moreover, they can offer guidance on energy-efficient solutions, helping you save on utility bills in the long run. Reason 4.5: Peace of Mind Employing a top-notch electrician provides peace of mind. You can trust that the electrical work is in capable hands, allowing you to focus on other priorities without worrying about safety, compliance, or the quality of the outcome. In conclusion, when it comes to electrical projects, don't settle for anything less than the best. Hiring a great electrician brings a multitude of benefits, from ensuring safety and expertise to delivering quality workmanship and long-term cost savings. By prioritizing the skills and professionalism of an exceptional electrician, you make a wise investment in the success and safety of your electrical endeavors. To get more information like this, join our Facebook Page :  https://www.facebook.com/ukelectrician Thanks, Simon

The Ultimate Guide to Electrical Installation Condition Reports in Sheffield What is an EICR? An EICR, or Electrical Installation Condition Report, is a thorough assessment of the electrical systems, wiring, and equipment in a building. It identifies any potential hazards, electrical faults, or non-compliance with safety regulations. Why do I need an EICR? An EICR is essential for maintaining electrical safety. It helps identify and rectify any electrical issues, ensuring the safety of occupants, compliance with regulations, and peace of mind for property owners. It also keeps the Insurance Company happy in the event of a claim! And a judge happy in the event of an Electrical shock or incidence! How Often should an EICR be conducted? The frequency of EICR inspections depends on the type of property and its usage. Generally, domestic properties should have an EICR every 5 years, while commercial properties should undergo more frequent inspections, typically every 3 years or even annually for high-risk environments. Who can perform an EICR? EICRs should be carried out by qualified and competent electricians who specialize in inspection and testing. They possess the necessary knowledge and expertise to assess electrical systems accurately. At S Barker Electrical Ltd we can carry out Electrical Testing in Sheffield. What happens during an EICR? During an EICR, the electrician will thoroughly inspect the electrical installations, wiring, sockets, switches, and other electrical components. They will conduct tests, identify any faults, and determine if the system complies with safety standards. At S Barker Electrical Ltd you'll be explained the results afterwards in easy speak with no technical jargon. We'll also show you what this means in terms of putting things right. If you need a Quote we'll do that too. What happens if issues are found during the EICR? If any electrical faults or non-compliance are identified, the electrician will provide a detailed report outlining the issues. Depending on the severity, they may recommend immediate repairs, further investigations, or replacements to ensure safety and compliance. We'll automatically send you a Quote with each item seperate for you to consider, or use as negotiation on a house sale or purchase. Are EICRs legally required? While EICRs are not mandatory for all properties, certain regulations and legislation, such as the Landlord Electrical Safety Standards in the UK, may require specific properties, such as rental accommodations, to have valid EICRs. Can I conduct my own EICR? It is not recommended to perform your own EICR, as it requires specialized knowledge and testing equipment. A qualified electrician should be employed to ensure accurate inspections and proper compliance. At S Barker Electrical Ltd, Simon has 35 years of experience from Industrial, Commercial and Domestic backgrounds and is well reviewed from this work (See Reviews page for details). How long does an EICR assessment take? The duration of an EICR assessment depends on the size and complexity of the property. On average, it can take a couple of hours to a full day for a comprehensive inspection. Can I get a copy of the EICR report? Yes, the electrician will provide you with a detailed EICR report outlining the findings, including any issues, recommendations, and observations. It is an important document for maintaining a safe electrical system. Simon will send the report at the end of the job using an iPad, so that you have it immediately. If you are also present at the time of testing, then you'll also get a simple explanation of what was found and how it can be corrected. A Quote will follow if needed. So if you need an Electrical Installation Condition Report or EICR in Sheffield, then check out our Quote Tool or call us on 0114 419 0020 If you have any other Questions about EICRs then Contact Us Enjoying These Blog Articles?

Are private landlords responsible for PAT testing? In recent blog, we talked about the electrical responsibilities of a private landlord , especially concerning compliance with the new Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulation, introduced during lockdown. But what is the law regarding electrical appliances in a rental property, and are private landlords responsible for PAT testing in Sheffield? In 2020, it became law for landlords to make sure that electrical installations are inspected and tested by a registered electrician every five years. However, this Regulation only applies to electrical installations, not electrical appliances supplied to tenants as part of the property rental. Although PAT testing is not a legal requirement for landlords in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, (it has been a legal requirement in Scotland since 2015), the law does stipulate that electrical appliances supplied to tenants should be well-maintained, safe and not expose tenants to harm. PAT testing is considered to be industry best practice for landlords to prove they are taking electrical safety seriously. Are private landlords responsible for PAT testing? Local Authority Licensing Some councils may have licensing schemes that require testing of electrical equipment, especially if the property is a house in multiple occupation (HMO.) Unfortunately, licensing requirements differ from council to council, so it is a good idea to contact your local authority to find out: · Whether your property should be licensed · If it is deemed an HMO · The requirements for testing electrical appliances · How often testing should be undertaken Are private landlords responsible for PAT testing? Your Duty of Care The safety of rental properties and their occupants should be the top priority for every landlord and, of course, the majority of private landlords recognise their duty of care towards their tenants. Furthermore, as well as looking after your tenants, it is in your best interests too to prove that all electrical appliances you have supplied are safe to use. If a tenant has an accident caused by badly maintained or faulty electrical equipment that you have supplied as part of the rental agreement, you could face prosecution for criminal negligence. This is why it is considered best practice for private landlords to carry out regular PAT tests. Following the tests, your registered electrician will provide a certificate which can be presented as proof that you have done everything ‘reasonably practicable’ to meet legal electrical safety requirements and protect your tenants from harm. So why not put your mind at rest by booking S Barker Electrical to PAT test electrical appliances in your rental properties in Sheffield? We understand the electrical responsibilities a private landlord, have more than 30 years’ experience in PAT testing, and we are fully police checked. It is simple to book on our website and, if you would rather, we deal directly with tenants on your behalf, we are happy to do so. We even include minor repairs as part of the service, with problems like badly wired plugs or incorrect fuses rectified on the spot at no extra charge! Are private landlords responsible for PAT testing? What about insurance? Many landlords’ insurance policies will include a requirement for PAT testing electrical appliances supplied as part of a rental agreement. It is worth checking your policy to see what is required because a claim can be refused if you have not fulfilled the obligations of the policy. Again, it is in your best interests to do everything ‘reasonably practicable’ to ensure the safety of your tenants. If an appliance you provided failed or developed a fault, presenting a valid PAT testing certificate would show that you had taken the necessary steps to safeguard your tenants. It is also a good idea to arrange a regular visual inspection of your property to double-check that your electrical appliances are being used properly, and that there are no signs of misuse or damage. · Damage to leads or plugs · Misuse of extension cables · Evidence of bad fixing such as tape or exposed wires · Signs of overheating · Stretched or trapped cables · Evidence of damp near to electrical items or sockets You should make note of any issues reported to you by tenants and act quickly to get these issues resolved. Are private landlords responsible for PAT testing? Why do I need PAT testing? Throughout this blog, we have reiterated that PAT testing is not a legal requirement if your rental properties are in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland. That said, it is the best way you can demonstrate that you: · Meet legal electrical safety requirements · Protect your tenants from the hazards of faulty electrical appliances · Protect yourself covered from an insurance and legal perspective Are private landlords responsible for PAT testing? What should be tested? What is tested will depend which appliances you provide as part of the rental agreement. You are not responsible for testing appliances brought into the property by tenants. Put simply, all electrical items you have provided that plug into the mains, should be tested at regular intervals. According to pat.org.uk, there aren’t any set periods for the frequency of PAT tests, but the time frame needs to take into account the risk of frequent-use items breaking or developing a fault, and how quickly an appliance is likely to deteriorate with regular use. For example, kettles and toasters are far more likely to cause problems than fridges or washing machines, simply because they are handled and used more often. In addition, make sure your tenants know they can contact you to report any electrical faults. The sooner these are fixed, the less likely they are to cause significant problems. Are private landlords responsible for PAT testing in Sheffield? Legally, no. But we have outlined in this blog the reasons why you need to show that you take the electrical safety of your tenants seriously. It is also in your own best interests to have a valid testing certificate. Should anything fail, it will show you have done everything ‘reasonably practicable’ and add validation to an insurance claim. It may even save you from prosecution. At S Barker Electrical, we are more than a ‘put a sticker on it and forget about it’ company. We will provide you with a detailed report that includes all the test results, should you need to make a claim. So don’t waste time worrying ‘are private landlords responsible for PAT testing’, contact us today to discuss your requirements or check availability on our website . As an added bonus, if you book an EICR inspection at the same time as PAT testing, you get an extra discount! Enjoying These Blog Articles?

Electrics for a home cinema With a rise in the availability of streaming services, the affordability of large TVs and the cost of living crisis, families are looking carefully at the cost of leisure activities. The cost of a family outing to the cinema can be expensive, even if only during the school holidays, especially when you add in the extras like parking, soft drinks, popcorn and sweets! You can read more in this article from The Sun from 2018 and prices have increased dramatically since then. While families are thinking carefully about where their money goes, they may feel it is more cost-effective to have a cinema in their home in Leeds, rather than taking family trips to the cinema – especially if they are already paying for a streaming service. The electrics for a home cinema can be complicated, so in this blog, I will outline some useful information and factors you should consider when installing a home cinema. Equipment for a cinema room You need to think carefully about whether you adapt an existing room, convert your garage or basement, or build a dedicated cinema room and whether the room will need soundproofing. Whatever you choose to do, there should be enough space to make sure everyone has an enjoyable experience. Here is the basic equipment you will need when installing a home cinema: AV Receiver or Amplifier This is the main component of any home cinema system. It receives all the video and audio content from the source, which could be a Blu-ray player, games console, Amazon firestick, or apps/streaming services from your smart TV. The main function of an AV receiver is to decode and output this information to your speakers and screen. Speakers & Subwoofer The type of speakers you choose will depend on whether you want to hide them or make a statement, but there are five basic types: · Bookshelf · floor standing · in-wall · in-ceiling · soundbars For surround sound, you will need at least five speakers (front left and right; rear left and right, and one in the centre.) You may decide to mix and match the different types according to your room layout and whether you want the speakers to be visible or not. Although you can opt for speakers without a subwoofer, it does add that extra level to make your home cinema more like the real thing. Large TV or a Projector The speakers only relay sound, so you still need something to display the video content, and this is where the TV or projector/screen come in. If you use a smart TV, it will have lots of apps or streaming services already built in, so you will have access to a variety of options. The TV needs an HDMI cable connection to the AV receiver for the sound and video content. (Whatever TV you choose, check it supports Audio Return Channel (ARC), which ensures the sound content is transmitted to the AV receiver.) Because projectors don’t come with all the streaming options you find on a smart TV, you will need another source for content (a Blu-ray player, games console, Amazon firestick, etc.), which should be connected to the AV receiver via an HDMI cable. In summary, you will need the following: · An AV receiver · At least five speakers and an optional subwoofer, all wired into the AV receiver · A TV or projector and screen, with HDMI cable to the AV receiver · A source, (if not using apps on your TV), such as a Blu-ray player, games console, Amazon firestick, connected to the AV receiver via an HDMI cable You should also consider the lighting system and an integrated control system for the equipment, lights, blinds, etc, which will have an impact on the wiring requirements for a home cinema. Of course, because all the equipment for a cinema room (apart from the speakers), needs to be connected to the mains, it requires a new circuit, and may also need a new consumer unit. You should therefore seek help with the electrics for a home cinema from a registered electrician in Leeds. At S. Barker Electrical, we are happy for you to check out our trade credentials, experience and reviews to give you the peace of mind that we have all the necessary skills and expertise to install electrics for a home cinema in your home, whether via a renovation, repurposing or a new build. You can find out more in our blog ‘ how to book an electrician in Leeds’ . Electrics for a home cinema & Part P Building Regulations It is your responsibility to make sure that any new electrical installations in your home are carried out by someone who has the relevant skills and knowledge to make sure your electrics are safe, conform to the Electrical Regulations (BS 7671), and are certified under the Part P scheme for building regulations. Part P Building Regulations were brought in in 2005 to protect homeowners from electrical hazards in their home. Under the regulations, you have to tell the building control department of your local authority about electrical installation work being carried out in your home before it starts. Alternatively, you can employ an electrician registered with one of the Government approved Part P schemes, such as the NICEIC scheme. There are many benefits to using a registered electrician in Leeds to undertake electrical installations such as the electrics for a home cinema: · You will not have to pay any building control charges to your local authority – the electrician will deal with everything on your behalf · You will be given an Electrical Installation Certificate to state that the electrical work carried out meets BS 7671 · You will receive a Building Regulations Compliance Certificate stating that the completed electrical work meets the building regulations – this in invaluable when you come to sell your home · There is a formal complaints procedure should the work be unsatisfactory or if it does not comply with building regulations · You have the option of taking out an insurance-backed guarantee, so if, at a later date, the work is found to be sub-standard and does not comply with building regulations, you will be able to make a claim · A registered electrician with the knowledge, skills, and experience to carry out the wiring requirements for a home cinema will have their work regularly assessed against wiring regulations, safety standards, and building regulations You can read more about Part P Building Regulations and what it means for new electrical installations in your home on the Electrical Safety First website . Electrics for a home cinema There are a lot of things to consider when thinking about installing a home cinema in Leeds, from the floorplan of your house to soundproofing, the soft furnishings and acoustics to the lighting and the equipment you will need. But when thinking about the wiring requirements for a home cinema, the best thing to do is to call a registered electrician like S Barker Electrical, who can take on the project for you and make sure the electrical installation complies with the relevant building and safety regulations. So, if you are thinking of installing a home cinema in Leeds, contact us with your requirements and we will be happy to talk to you about the electrics for a home cinema.

Why old fuse boards can be dangerous Have you checked your fuse board lately? No? Then it may be worth taking a look at your fuse board to check it has all the latest safety measures installed. I will describe in detail what these are and what they do later in this blog. But first, I want to highlight why old fuse boards can be dangerous and why you should make checks. The recommendation is that homeowners hire a registered electrician to carry out an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) at least once every ten years, to check the safety of the electrics in your home. It is recommended for many reasons: · The Electrical Regulations (BS 7671) are updated regularly, so older fuse boards may not have the latest safety mechanisms · If your fuse board is quite old, it may not be able to handle all the demands from today’s gadgets and chargers · If you have renovated, or built an extension, it is a good idea to make sure your electrics can take the extra demand · If you have moved house, or are thinking of moving, it is a good idea to obtain an EICR along with the survey, so you know that the electrics in your new home are safe · If your fuse board is difficult to get to, or in a cupboard where you also store spare paint or other flammable liquids · If your fuse board is old, then your wiring may be old too, and wiring will deteriorate over time Why old fuse boards can be dangerous In addition to the points above, there are some tell-tale signs that your electrics and fuse board may need to be checked. If your fuse board is old and cannot handle the demands you are placing upon it, you may experience flickering lights or frequent tripping. Sometimes there can be a burning smell or scorch marks on the fuse board itself. You may even have sockets that don’t work. All these are indicators of why old fuse boards can be dangerous and signs that you need to replace the old fuse board with a new consumer unit that complies with the latest Electrical Regulations (BS 7671) and has many safety features as standard. The best reason for replacing an old fuse board is electrical safety, making sure your home is safe for you and your family. If you have experienced any of the issues I have mentioned above or you are unsure whether your fuse board is safe, simply take a picture of it and send it to S Barker Electrical via the contact form on our website. If it is necessary to replace the old fuse board with a new consumer unit, you will have peace of mind knowing that our installation work has a ten-year guarantee and is backed by NICEIC (National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting) Insurance. Safety features of a new consumer unit In the main, the reason why old fuse boards can be dangerous is because they don’t have the safety features available today. I will now explain the different safety features of a consumer unit using the picture below: