Electric Avenue https://electricavenuepnw.com Mon, 08 Dec 2025 13:36:20 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://electricavenuepnw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/EA-Favicon-512-x-512-1-150x150.png Electric Avenue https://electricavenuepnw.com 32 32 Full and Partial Home Rewires for Older Homes: From Knob-and-Tube to Modern Safe Wiring https://electricavenuepnw.com/blog/top-electrical-services/full-and-partial-home-rewires-for-older-homes-from-knob-and-tube-to-modern-safe-wiring https://electricavenuepnw.com/blog/top-electrical-services/full-and-partial-home-rewires-for-older-homes-from-knob-and-tube-to-modern-safe-wiring#respond Sun, 07 Dec 2025 20:25:43 +0000 https://electricavenuepnw.com/?p=984

Older homes often feature outdated electrical systems like knob-and-tube wiring, cloth-covered wiring, or ungrounded circuits that no longer meet current safety standards. These electrical systems can pose serious fire hazards and may not support the demands of modern appliances and electronics. Full or partial home rewires are essential upgrades to bring these homes up to code, improve safety, and increase electrical capacity for today’s modern lifestyle.

Understanding Knob-and-Tube and Other Legacy Wiring

Knob-and-tube wiring, widely used before the 1940s, consists of single insulated conductors supported by porcelain knobs and tubes. While functional in its time, the system lacks grounding and insulation quality expected today. Cloth-covered wiring and mixed Romex setups also present challenges like deteriorated insulation and compromised safety over time. Homes with these systems risk electrical fires, insurance issues, and circuit overloads.

The Rewire Process: Full and Partial Options

Full rewires involve replacing all existing outdated wiring throughout the home with modern, grounded circuits and wiring that complies with the National Electrical Code (NEC). Partial rewires target specific problem areas or circuits, often as part of remodels or when replacing hazardous components. Both approaches typically include upgrading electrical panels and adding new outlets and GFCI/AFCI protection for wet or high-use areas.

Benefits of Upgrading Your Electrical System

  • Enhanced Safety: Modern wiring reduces electrical fire risks and protects occupants from shocks.
  • Improved Capacity: Supports higher energy demands of today’s appliances, EV chargers, HVAC, and smart home devices.
  • Insurance Compliance: Many insurers require knob-and-tube removal for coverage or lower premiums.
  • Increased Home Value: Updated electrical systems can boost resale value and marketability.
  • Peace of Mind: Wired for today’s technology with reduced maintenance concerns.

Why Choose Electric Avenue for Your Home Rewire in Portland

Electric Avenue specializes in rewiring older Portland homes, combining technical expertise with respectful service in this unique market. Our licensed electricians conduct thorough inspections, provide tailored estimates, and follow local permitting requirements to ensure your home’s electrical system is safe, reliable, and ready for the future. We prioritize clear communication and minimal disruption throughout the project.

If your older Portland home has outdated or unsafe wiring, don’t wait to upgrade. Contact Electric Avenue today for a comprehensive electrical inspection and expert rewiring solutions tailored to your home’s needs. Protect your family, improve your home’s functionality, and enjoy modern electric safety with professional rewiring services.

]]>
https://electricavenuepnw.com/blog/top-electrical-services/full-and-partial-home-rewires-for-older-homes-from-knob-and-tube-to-modern-safe-wiring/feed 0
Generac Standby Generator Systems: Expert Guide to Sizing, Gas Coordination, Transfer Switches, and Maintenance https://electricavenuepnw.com/blog/top-emergency-services/generac-standby-generator-systems-expert-guide-to-sizing-gas-coordination-transfer-switches-and-maintenance https://electricavenuepnw.com/blog/top-emergency-services/generac-standby-generator-systems-expert-guide-to-sizing-gas-coordination-transfer-switches-and-maintenance#respond Sun, 07 Dec 2025 19:36:41 +0000 https://electricavenuepnw.com/?p=978 Having reliable backup power during outages is essential for protecting your home and family. Generac standby generator systems provide automatic, seamless power to keep critical appliances and systems running during blackouts. Proper sizing, gas supply coordination, transfer switch installation, and ongoing maintenance are crucial to ensure your generator performs optimally when you need it most.

Sizing Your Generac Standby Generator

Correct generator sizing starts with calculating your home’s essential electrical load. Consider all devices you want powered during an outage—from refrigerators and heating systems to medical equipment and security systems. Load calculations must factor in starting watts of motors and meet future needs. Oversizing wastes fuel and increases costs, while undersizing risks system failure. Expert professionals use detailed formulas and tools to determine the ideal generator capacity.

Coordinating Gas Supply

Generac standby generators often run on natural gas or liquid propane. Coordinating gas supply installation includes verifying pressure, pipe sizing, and connection integrity to ensure uninterrupted fuel flow. Proper gas line installation minimizes safety risks and maximizes generator efficiency.

Transfer Switches for Safe Power Transfer

Transfer switches safely disconnect your home from the grid and connect it to generator power during outages. Automatic transfer switches detect outages and engage the generator within seconds, providing seamless power transfer without manual intervention. Proper installation by licensed electricians is critical for safety and compliance with electrical codes.

Routine Maintenance for Longevity

Regular preventive maintenance extends your generator’s lifespan and reliability. This includes oil and filter changes, battery checks, system diagnostics, and load testing. Scheduled service reduces unexpected failures and costly repairs, ensuring your standby system is ready when emergencies strike.

Why Electric Avenue for Generac Generator Systems

Electric Avenue provides comprehensive Generac standby generator installation, gas coordination, transfer switch setup, and maintenance services. Our licensed electricians guide you through load calculations, obtain permits, coordinate with gas providers, and deliver efficient installation with ongoing support to keep your home power-ready year-round.

Prepare your home with a Generac standby generator system that delivers peace of mind and uninterrupted power. Contact Electric Avenue today for a professional consultation and custom standby generator solution tailored to your needs.

]]>
https://electricavenuepnw.com/blog/top-emergency-services/generac-standby-generator-systems-expert-guide-to-sizing-gas-coordination-transfer-switches-and-maintenance/feed 0
When to Call an Emergency Electrician: Electrical Red Flags in Older Houses https://electricavenuepnw.com/blog/top-emergency-services/when-to-call-an-emergency-electrician-electrical-red-flags-in-older-houses Tue, 11 Nov 2025 21:44:42 +0000 https://electricavenuepnw.com/?p=946 The Importance of Electrical Inspections for Older Homes to Avoid Emergencies https://electricavenuepnw.com/blog/top-emergency-services/the-importance-of-electrical-inspections-for-older-homes-to-avoid-emergencies Tue, 11 Nov 2025 21:40:56 +0000 https://electricavenuepnw.com/?p=942 Common Electrical Emergencies in Older Homes and How to Prevent Them https://electricavenuepnw.com/blog/top-emergency-services/common-electrical-emergencies-in-older-homes-and-how-to-prevent-them Tue, 11 Nov 2025 21:34:20 +0000 https://electricavenuepnw.com/?p=934 How to Safely Upgrade Your Older Home’s Electrical Panel and Wiring https://electricavenuepnw.com/blog/top-emergency-services/how-to-safely-upgrade-your-older-homes-electrical-panel-and-wiring Tue, 11 Nov 2025 21:24:52 +0000 https://electricavenuepnw.com/?p=931 Emergency Electrician Tips for Handling Electrical Issues in Vintage Homes https://electricavenuepnw.com/blog/top-emergency-services/emergency-electrician-tips-for-handling-electrical-issues-in-vintage-homes Tue, 11 Nov 2025 21:19:11 +0000 https://electricavenuepnw.com/?p=928 Signs Your Older Home’s Wiring Needs an Immediate Overhaul https://electricavenuepnw.com/blog/top-emergency-services/signs-your-older-homes-wiring-needs-an-immediate-overhaul Tue, 11 Nov 2025 20:52:01 +0000 https://electricavenuepnw.com/?p=923 Why Older Homes Need Electrical System Upgrades: Avoid Emergency Repairs https://electricavenuepnw.com/blog/top-emergency-services/why-older-homes-need-electrical-system-upgrades-avoid-emergency-repairs Tue, 11 Nov 2025 20:43:24 +0000 https://electricavenuepnw.com/?p=918 Top Emergency Electrical Services Every Older Homeowner Should Know https://electricavenuepnw.com/blog/top-emergency-services/top-emergency-electrical-services-every-older-homeowner-should-know Tue, 11 Nov 2025 20:32:44 +0000 https://electricavenuepnw.com/?p=911