Tag: electrical panel installation

Sauna Heater Installation in Newtown, PA

Dec 01, 2023

Sauna Heater Installation in Newtown, PA

  • Electrical
  • Uncategorized
Sauna heater installation in Newtown, PA with McHales.

When it comes to creating a relaxing oasis in your home, few things compare to the luxury of a sauna. Recently, a homeowner contacted us about getting a sauna heater installation in Newtown, PA. The customer wanted not only one new sauna heater but two! While the prospect of enjoying a soothing sauna session is undoubtedly appealing, the importance of proper sauna heater installation, including electrical installation, cannot be overstated. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the details of this particular job in Newtown, PA, and shed light on the crucial aspects of sauna heater installation. The McHales team is made up of talented and experienced technicians, whatever task you throw our way, we’ve got you covered! To explore more of our comprehensive services, check out our website! 

Addressing Requests and Concerns

Our customer, a homeowner in Newtown, PA, was excited about their new sauna project and wanted us to ensure that the electrical panels in their home could handle the load of two sauna heaters. This is a vital consideration, as inadequate electrical capacity can lead to overheating, circuit overloads, and even electrical fires. To address this concern, we needed to conduct size and load calculations for each electrical panel to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the sauna heaters.

Conditions of the Newtown Home

The homeowner’s residence, built in 1985 and renovated in 1999, presented specific challenges. The electrical panel was relatively old, with a lifespan of 10-20 years. Aging electrical panels can pose risks, including faulty connections and diminished capacity. In this case, it was essential to assess the condition of the electrical panel to determine if any upgrades or replacements were necessary to accommodate the new sauna heaters.

Sauna Heater Installation in Newtown, PA.

Sauna Heater Installation

Our team tackled the sauna heater installation project with meticulous care. We installed two sauna heaters, utilizing two existing 8-2 wires to ensure proper power supply. Additionally, we relocated circuits and incorporated four double 50-amp breakers in the electrical panel to safely distribute power to the sauna heaters. We also installed a sauna control board above the drop ceiling to facilitate easy operation. Importantly, all electrical connections and operations were thoroughly verified to ensure safety and functionality.

To enhance safety in the sauna environment, we installed weather-resistant switches, outlets, and GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) devices. These components are essential for sauna installations as they protect against electrical hazards and ensure the longevity of your sauna equipment, especially in the humid and high-temperature conditions typically found in saunas.

The Importance of Electrical Panel Assessment

One of the key takeaways from this job in Newtown, PA, is the importance of checking the capacity of your electrical panel before adding new devices like sauna heaters. Overloading an electrical panel can lead to power outages, damaged appliances, and even safety hazards. Always consult with a qualified electrician to assess your panel’s capacity and make necessary upgrades to accommodate new electrical loads.

Sauna Heater Installation in Newtown, PA

Sauna heater installation, particularly the electrical aspect, demands careful planning and execution. In our Newtown, PA project, we ensured the safe and efficient operation of two sauna heaters while prioritizing safety and functionality. Remember, when embarking on a sauna installation project, it’s essential to use all-weather-resistant electrical equipment, consult with professionals, and assess your electrical panel’s capacity to enjoy the full benefits of your sauna while ensuring safety and peace of mind. For more information about a sauna heater installation in Newtown, PA, contact us today at McHales for expert service!

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By Brenna Thirkell

Electrical Panel Replacement in New Hope, PA

Nov 03, 2023

Electrical Panel Replacement in New Hope, PA

  • Electrical
Electrical Panel Replacement in New Hope, PA.

Description of the Problem 

In the picturesque town of New Hope, PA, a homeowner faced an electrifying challenge—frequent breaker trips. Frustration led to a call to McHales, seeking a solution to this recurring issue. Our experts immediately sprung into action. For more information on electrical panel replacement in New Hope, PA, or other electrical repair services in surrounding areas, contact us today!

Job Site Conditions

The breaker’s relentless tripping raised concerns. It was a clear sign that something was amiss in the electrical setup. Our team dove deep into diagnostics, aiming to uncover the root cause behind this disruptive problem. The loss of one leg supplying half the house added complexity to the situation.

Why Does The Breaker Keep Tripping

Upon a thorough evaluation of the main panel, our experts pinpointed the problem—one leg in the 100 amp sub panel located in the garage. Breakers relying on this problematic leg were identified and isolated. The customer was actively using this subpanel for charging electric vehicles at a high draw of 48 amps, which exceeded the 50 amp breaker capacity. We advised the homeowner to reduce the charging amperage to 30 amps to alleviate the strain on the electrical system.

Moreover, we highlighted the need for a long-term solution—an upgrade from the current 200-amp system to a 400-amp setup. While the customer couldn’t commit to the upgrade immediately, plans were set in motion to reduce the draw on the existing system and tackle the upgrade next year.

Job Details

To rectify the issue, a comprehensive plan was devised. We commenced by removing the existing 100 amp service line from the main panel to the subpanel in the garage. This involved replacing the 100 amp breaker and main panel, as well as the 100 amp breaker in the subpanel. The critical step was running a new 100 amp SER (Service Entrance Rated) line from the main panel to the subpanel in the garage.

On September 18th, we executed the plan by installing the new 100 amp service line. This step resolved the immediate issue by replacing the necessary breakers for this service. However, it was evident that both panels, main and subpanel, had aged and displayed signs of failure in multiple breakers. Consequently, we provided the homeowner with a quote to replace the subpanel in the garage, aligning with their long-term plans to address the main panel next year.

Electrical Panel Replacement in New Hope, PA

This electrical panel replacement project in New Hope showcases how McHales delivers efficient solutions to complex electrical challenges. Our commitment to safety, diagnostics, and customer education ensures that homeowners can enjoy a reliable electrical system. If you’re facing similar issues or planning electrical upgrades, McHales is your trusted partner in making your home electrically sound and secure. Contact us today to learn more about our electrical panel replacement in New Hope, PA, and other electrical repair services we offer!

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By Brenna Thirkell

EV Charger Installation in New Hope, PA

Nov 03, 2023

EV Charger Installation in New Hope, PA

  • Electrical
EV charger installation in new Hop, PA with McHales.

Definition of Problem

Imagine owning a sleek Mercedes, a symbol of luxury and cutting-edge technology. Now, picture yourself eager to embrace the electric vehicle (EV) revolution, ready to install an EV charger at your New Hope, PA residence. The problem? You have all the necessary equipment, but you need a trusted electrician to install the correct amperage electrical panel and install the charger. Fortunately, McHales came to the rescue, referred by none other than the Mercedes dealership itself. Here’s how we turned this dream into a reality. Contact us today to learn more about our EV charger installation in New Hope, PA. 

Job Site Conditions

New Hope is a place of picturesque charm, known for its historic homes. Our customer’s residence showcased a blend of old and new, evident in its multiple electrical panels. Some were just five years old, while others had seen fifteen. These electrical panels were too old and did not have enough amperage to handle the electric vehicle charger that the homeowner wished to install. The task at hand was to establish a dedicated line that would span from the utility room, traverse the basement’s ceiling, penetrate into the garage, and finally reach the charging point station. The customer also needed the EV charger installed once the proper electrical panel was ready to go. 
The twist to this EV charger installation: the customer wanted to maintain the home’s aesthetics, and conceal approximately 100 feet of wiring.

Job Details

Our team at McHales took this challenge head-on. After assessing the job conditions, our team determined that this EV charger needed its own dedicated circuit so that the charger could perform optimally. EV chargers are high-powered to ensure rapid charging for the customer’s prized Mercedes, making every drive a convenience and joy. A dedicated line is a separate electrical circuit or connection solely reserved for a specific device or appliance, ensuring a consistent and uninterrupted power supply. The dedicated line also limits the risk of power surges, which often occur when multiple appliances or devices are sharing a circuit. 

Installation

We supplied the required wire and straps, addressing the customer’s absence of these items. Upon locating the installation spot, we promptly ran conduit, connected breakers, ensured safety, tested, and labeled the dedicated circuit. Positioned approximately 25 horizontal feet from the charger, our 50-amp electrical panel ensured accessibility and efficiency. Once the panel was secured, McHales installed the EV charger. 

Safety and Aesthetics

In addition to the electrical panel installation, we implemented an Eaton Home Surge Protector. This device safeguards all electronics from the potentially damaging effects of electrical surges. The visible LED indication provides peace of mind, assuring the customer of their electronic investments’ security.

The job was not complete, however. To preserve the home’s aesthetics, McHales added crown molding over the wiring, seamlessly integrating it with the beautiful interior.

EV Charger Installation in New Hope, PA

Our EV charger installation in New Hope, PA, exemplifies how McHales can seamlessly blend cutting-edge technology with the charm of historic homes. With dedication and attention to detail, we’ve ensured the homeowner can embrace the electric future with confidence. If you’re looking to bring the convenience of an EV charger to your home, McHales is your trusted partner. Contact us today to learn more about electrical panel installation and EV charger installation in New Hope, PA.

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By Brenna Thirkell