Be storm ready - electrical safety tips

Unpredictable weather like storms, floods and cyclones are all a part of life for Queenslanders!

According to BOM’s 2024 spring long-range forecast, Queensland is expected to experience warmer-than-usual spring temperatures and an increased likelihood of hot days and nights. Most of the state, particularly in southern and central areas, will likely receive above-average rainfall.

Considering this prognosis, storms and floods could affect our homes no matter how prepared we are. To ensure you are ready for storm season, here are some electrical safety tips on what to do before, during, and after a significant weather event.

Before the storm

1. Make your household emergency plan—The new Get Ready Queensland Severe Weather Household Emergency Plan helps Queenslanders prepare for extreme weather. This simple online form, which you can fill out, print, and share with family, helps you plan for an emergency, know what to do, and know who to contact quickly and easily.

2. Ensure you have safety switches installed and test them every three months.

3. Be prepared for extended power outages and ensure your mobile phone is fully charged for emergencies.

4. If you plan to use a generator, ensure it's in good working order and have a changeover switch installed.

5. Turn off your solar power system before a storm or flood.

6. Know how to turn off your mains power in an emergency and prepare an evacuation plan that considers the location of power lines so you can avoid them when you evacuate.

7. If anyone in your house relies on electrical equipment for medical reasons, have a plan in case of a power outage.

8. Check your home and contents insurance policy to see if it may cover electrical damage to your property or appliances due to unforeseen external events and severe weather. The success of electrical insurance claims depends on your insurance cover and the cause of the electrical damage.

During the storm

1. Turn off power points, unplug electrical equipment if it is safe to do so, and avoid going outside to turn off the power.

2. Do not use electrical equipment in wet areas.

3. If the storm causes damage, do not attempt temporary electrical repairs. Instead, turn the power off and call a licensed electrician after the bad weather has passed. If you cannot turn the power off, avoid damaged equipment and contact your electricity provider.

4. If you are in a flood, place electrical equipment as high off the ground as possible.

After the storm

1. If you’ve had property damage, get a licensed electrical contractor to test that your home is electrically safe and provide a certificate of test before restoring power.

2. If your property was flooded:

   i) Be careful not to expose electrical fittings like power points or light switches when removing internal or external wall sheeting, as they can cause electric shock or fire.

   ii) Have a licensed electrical contractor test any affected electrical equipment before using it again.

3. If you need to enter your ceiling space to inspect or repair, turn the power off at the main switchboard before entering the space.

4. Avoid damaged or flooded service pillars and report damage to the electricity entity. These are usually green or beige plastic boxes that sit on the fence line between houses where you have underground power.

5. Check the ‘point of attachment’ on your house for damage. Also known as the point of connection, this is where the service mains (overhead or underground cable) attaches to your property. A licensed electrical contractor must repair it if it's damaged before power can be restored. Your electricity provider must see the repair paperwork before reconnecting the power.

Need electrical assistance after a storm?

As experienced emergency-response electricians, we are here for you!

We're contactable 24/7 for emergency call-outs via 1800 940 413 across South East Queensland to keep you and your home electrically safe and reconnected again.

We can also help with:

Electrical insurance claim reports and carry out any electrical repair work associated with insurance claims.

Routine electrical inspections to identify any issues before they arise.

In the event of fallen powerlines, call 000 immediately and notify the relevant electricity provider for urgent assistance.

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Sources:

https://plan.getready.qld.gov.au/

https://www.electricalsafety.qld.gov.au/

https://media.bom.gov.au/releases/1230/bureau-of-meteorologys-2024-spring-long-range-forecast/

Ehlerth Electrical Wins National Safety of the Year Award at the MEA’s 2024 Electrical Industry Excellence Awards

Ehlerth Electrical won the 2024 National Safety of the Year Award at the Master Electricians Australia Electrical Industry Excellence Awards on Saturday 3rd August, in Brisbane. The team was also named a finalist in seven categories for the South Queensland region.

The National Safety Award was added to the awards program two years ago to honour an individual or company demonstrating the qualities of a Master Electrician who prioritises safety every day.

This award was not open for submissions and was solely based on the judge's decision. Judges assessed safe work practices, attitude toward work, attention to detail, and safety philosophy as part of their selection criteria.

“Our commitment to safety is not just a one-time achievement but a daily dedication, demonstrated through our comprehensive audits, training, certifications, and systems,” said Brent Ehlerth, Director and Founder of Ehlerth Electrical.

“Every team member contributes to this effort, with special recognition to our supervisor and safety officer, Daniel, for his crucial role in managing safety in our business.

“I would also like to congratulate the team on receiving seven nominations for the South Queensland region this year. These achievements are a testament to the hard work, commitment to safety and quality, and excellent service we deliver daily,” said Brent.

The Ehlerth Electrical team was recognised as a finalist across seven different categories in the South Queensland Awards:

1. Master Electrician (Business) of the Year FINALIST: Ehlerth Electrical

2. Service Business of the Year FINALIST: Ehlerth Electrical

3. Women in Contracting Award FINALIST: Rachel Hayes-Weymouth

4. Electrician (Tradie) of the Year FINALIST: Laurence Lisson

5. Apprentice of the Year (1st or 2nd year) FINALIST: Anselm Cowley

6. Apprentice of the Year (3rd or 4th year) FINALIST: Jemma Noy

7. Project of the Year (under $1M electrical spend) FINALIST: Griffith University Gold Coast - EV Charger installation

Contact the team today if you need assistance with any of the following: domestic and commercial electrical services, solar systems and solar batteries, air conditioning, communications, industrial and hazardous areas and electrical vehicle charger installations.

Ehlerth Electrical's office is located at 35/16 Crockford Street, Northgate. Office hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.

Ehlerth Electrical team at the MEA’s 2024 Electrical Industry Excellence Awards in Brisbane

LED business signage: Guide to making the right choice

In today's competitive business environment, it's essential to stand out. Whether you want to increase your business's visibility or brand awareness, LED signage provides a versatile, sustainable, and cost-effective solution.

Some businesses use LED signage to make their storefront easily identifiable, while others use it to attract attention and significantly increase foot traffic, ultimately improving their bottom line. LED signage offers numerous benefits, but choosing the right one can be challenging. This guide can assist business owners in making informed decisions about their LED signage needs.

LED signage benefits

Energy efficiency

LEDs are known for their energy efficiency because they are low voltage and use less power to produce the same amount of light as other types of lighting. For example, LED neon signs consume significantly less energy than traditional neon signs.

Visibility

LED signs are bright, eye-catching, and visible from great distances during the day and night, ensuring your business stands out. This enhanced visibility helps attract more foot traffic, making them a powerful marketing tool. The FedEx Office survey found that 76% of consumers enter a store they have never visited based on its signs, and 68% have purchased a product or service because a sign caught their eye.

Longevity & durability

LED signs have a longer lifespan than traditional signage and are made of durable materials that can withstand diverse weather. This reduces the frequency of replacements and maintenance, making them a sustainable and cost-effective choice in the long term.

Versatility

Because LED signage incorporates many different styles, from LED neon signage to LED display screens, it is highly versatile and suitable for many industries. For example, retail stores use LED displays for promotions, restaurants for menus, and corporate offices for announcements. LED neon signs can enhance the ambience and attract attention in bars, restaurants, and storefronts.

Choosing the right LED sign

1. Determine the purpose

Assessing your business needs and goals is crucial before investing in LED signage. Determine the sign's primary purpose. For example, is it to attract new customers, promote special offers, or enhance brand visibility?

2. Select the style

Here are some styles of LED signage that you can choose from for your business:

Channel Acrylic Lightbox

Offers a sleek, modern look with illuminated letters that stand out against the background. It is ideal for businesses looking for a sophisticated appearance.

Face-illuminated Lightbox

Provides bright, even lighting across the sign’s surface, making it easily readable from a distance. It is perfect for high-visibility areas.

3D Illuminated Letters

Add depth and dimension to your signage, creating a striking visual effect that attracts attention.

Feature Custom Neon Sign

Offers unique designs that reflect your brand’s personality. It combines the nostalgic appeal of neon with the efficiency of LED technology.

Neon Logo

Blends the classic charm of neon signs with modern LED benefits, creating a distinctive look that highlights your logo.

Outdoor Illuminated Business Signage

Built to withstand the elements, ensuring your signage remains visible and attractive day and night.

LED Display Signage

Flat-panel video display that can be used indoors and outdoors for store signs, billboards, and other dynamic content.

3. Tailor the design

Work with a professional signage designer to create visually appealing customised LED signage and content that aligns perfectly with your brand identity. You can select from various high-contrasting colours, bold fonts, and styles to create a sign that mirrors your brand's personality. Incorporating custom designs like your logo or unique graphics can strengthen brand recognition and leave a lasting impression on customers. Keep the content simple and focused to avoid clutter. Use animations and transitions sparingly for LED displays to maintain a professional look.

4. Select the size and placement

When using LED signage, size, brightness, and placement are essential to capture your audience’s attention. For outdoor signs, go for larger, bright displays for maximum visibility. Indoors, opt for smaller, detailed signs that don’t overwhelm the space. Ensure experienced technicians do the installation to avoid issues.

Ready to light up your business with LED signage?

Discover the transformative power of LED signage with our friends at Cue Signs. They specialise in creating vibrant, custom neon signs and business signage tailored to your needs. If you need a licensed electrician to install the signage, the Ehlerth Electrical team is here to assist! We have the pleasure of teaming up with Cue Signs on many business signage installations.

Insights and Image Sources thanks to CUE SIGNS

How to conduct a quick DIY home energy audit

Conducting a home energy audit is an excellent way to identify areas in your home where energy is being wasted and make simple improvements that can lead to significant energy savings. These savings can make a real difference in these challenging times with increasing power bills. To get started, here are some tips on conducting your own quick home energy audit, followed by ways to improve your energy efficiency.

Assess your appliances

Old or in poor condition appliances can consume a lot of energy. These appliances might be pool filters, small fan heaters, old fridges and air conditioning units that require maintenance.

To find out how much energy an appliance consumes without a smart meter, you can check the wattage on the base and calculate daily cost by: 1. Multiplying the wattage of the appliance by the number of hours used per day; 2. Divide this by 1000 to obtain your daily kWh; 3. Multiply by the rate per kWh on your energy bill to determine how much the appliance costs you each day. Another method is to turn off all your appliances except the one you’re testing and look at your electricity meter to see how many revolutions it does in a minute. The faster it goes, the more energy the appliance is using.

Tips to improve energy efficiency

• Check your appliances for signs of wear and tear and consider replacing them with newer, more energy-efficient models by following the Energy Star ratings. 

• Switch off unused appliances at the wall, as they are still drawing power even when not in use or on standby. Consider getting smart plugs, as you can set timers on appliances to be switched off when not in use.

• Avoid overloading the clothes dryer, and use it as little as possible by hanging the washing out to dry naturally.

• Use the washing machine and dishwasher only when you have a full load and a shorter cycle where possible.

Check your hot water usage

Hot water is used mainly in the bathroom, laundry, and kitchen. This means that by using less hot water, you can significantly reduce your energy and water costs while also lowering your greenhouse gas emissions. The hot water system is one of the biggest energy-consumption appliances in your home. Use the tips in the first section to check how much energy yours is consuming and whether it needs replacing, maintenance, or simply adjusting how you use it. 

Tips to improve energy efficiency

• Take shorter showers - showering under four minutes can save up to $200 annually on water and energy bills.

• Use a low-flow showerhead - the higher the water rating and the lower the flow rate, the less energy and water you will use.

• Wash clothes in cold water as much as possible.

• If your hot water system needs replacing, choose an energy-efficient one, such as a heat pump water heater or solar hot water system, if it is within your budget. Ensure it is the right system size for your household by getting advice from the supplier.

• Check that the thermostat on your hot water system is set to a minimum of 60 degrees celsius (to prevent harmful bacteria from forming) and no more than 65 degrees celsius. 

Assess your heating/cooling usage

How do you heat and cool your home? If you use split systems or ducted air conditioners, check that they operate at the right temperature each season and are serviced regularly, as a dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause your system to work harder, increasing your energy consumption.

Tips to improve energy efficiency   

• Turn off lights, fans, air conditioners and appliances when you leave the room. 

• If you have an air conditioner, set it at around 25 degrees celsius for maximum efficiency when cooling or 18-20 degrees celsius in heat mode to warm your home efficiently. You can save up to 10% on cooling costs for every one degree that you raise the temperature.

• Get your air conditioning units serviced by a professional at least annually to ensure better air quality, improved energy efficiency, and lower running costs.

• Cleaning the dust filters per the manufacturer's instructions a few times a year can help ensure optimum performance.

Check for air leaks

Air leaks are one of the most significant sources of energy waste in homes. Identify air leaks in your home by checking the areas around doors, windows, and electrical outlets for gaps or cracks. You can use a smoke pencil or an incense stick to detect leaks—if the smoke or incense moves, you've found one.

Tips to improve energy efficiency

• Install weatherstripping around your doors and windows to seal gaps and cracks, preventing drafts and cool or hot air from escaping. This simple step can reduce your energy bills by up to 20%.

• Seal any gaps or cracks in your walls with caulk or foam sealant.

Inspect your insulation 

Check your attic, basement, and walls for inadequate insulation. Replace or repair any damaged or missing insulation to ensure that your home retains heat in winter and stays cool in summer. Insulation is also the most cost-effective way to improve your home's energy efficiency and comfort. For more information on insulation, visit https://www.yourhome.gov.au/passive-design/insulation 

Check your lighting 

Switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs and ensuring your light fixtures are in good condition can significantly reduce lighting energy consumption. LEDs use 75% less energy than halogen bulbs and last 5-10 times longer, reducing replacement costs and the number of bulbs that end up in landfills. A bonus is that they can fit in most existing fittings, and the initial cost of LEDs has a payback time of under a year.

Do you require an electrician to conduct your home energy audit?

If you find the above steps challenging and need expert assistance, our team of Gold Master Electricians can help you conduct a home energy audit by assessing your lighting, power, air conditioning, solar (if applicable) and appliances. You will receive a detailed audit report, including recommendations and an overall energy rating for your home. To schedule your home energy audit, please get in touch with our team at 1800 940 413 or info@ehlerthelectrical.com.au

Installing an electric vehicle charger at home

The electric vehicle uptake in Australia is rising, with a growing focus on reducing emissions and accelerating the electric revolution. If you already have an EV or are considering getting one, installing an EV charger at home has multiple benefits, such as convenience and potential cost savings, especially if you're using renewable energy such as the rooftop solar system. They can also be as fast as the public charging stations and around 3 to 10 times faster than a standard 10 amp wall outlet some EV owners use at home. Here are some things to consider before installing an EV charger at your home, as outlined below.

Determining the power supply for your EV charger

Before selecting which EV charger to get, you must check your grid connection and that your power outlet, wiring, and switchboard are suitable. Australian homes typically only have single-phase connections, so the top charge rate would be 7kW, adding up to 40km of range an hour. Some homes and most commercial premises with access to three-phase power could achieve charge speeds up to 120km an hour, depending on the charger.

If you’re unsure which power connection you have in your home, count the number of switches beneath the main switch on your home's switchboard. If there is one switch, you have single-phase power; if there are three switches, your home has a three-phase power connection.

If your home’s wiring or switchboard is old, it might need upgrading before the installation. A licenced electrician can assess this separately to determine the best option for your needs or as part of the installation quote.

The lowest cost option for charging an electric vehicle at home is to use excess solar power from your rooftop solar system or energy storage battery. Specific solar EV charger models can communicate with your solar inverter via an app and only charge when your system generates power. If you don't have a rooftop solar system, charging overnight at a lower off-peak rate is the next best option.

Choosing the right EV charger option

Numerous EV chargers are available on the market in Australia from multiple providers, ranging from basic Level 1 chargers, which plug into a standard wall outlet, to advanced Level 2 chargers, which provide a range of fast charging options from 7kW to 22kW and are ideal for fully electric vehicles.

For domestic customers, our team primarily installs level 2 charging stations from EVSE that are compatible with all electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Besides different brand types, they also range in power (kW), dimensions and plug types (universal socket or type 2 tethered, depending on the model). For example, 7kW Ocular charger models may provide up to 40 km of driving per hour of charge, whilst the 22kW chargers may offer up to 120km of driving per hour of charge.

Picking a suitable location for your EV charger

Most home chargers are wall-mounted, so the garage or carport is usually the best spot as it is easily accessible and near your car's charging port. Consider how you park your car in this location (i.e. nose-in or reverse-park) to ensure your charger can reach the charging port on your car. Whatever area you choose, we recommend keeping it away from sun or water exposure, especially if your charger is not weatherproof.

Getting the EV charger installed

Once you have done the background research above, the next step is to contact EV charger installers in your area to get a quote for the EV charger, installation, and power or wiring upgrades if you require it.

In Australia, dedicated EV charger providers and electrical companies sell chargers and offer installations. Please note that the EV chargers can only be installed by a licenced electrician who can help you determine the suitable charger for your electric vehicle and your home’s power supply.

Do you require assistance installing an electrical vehicle charger at your home or business?

Ehlerth Electrical team of Gold Master Electricians are qualified, experienced electric vehicle charger installers in South East Queensland. With our partner EVSE, we can provide numerous EV charger models and options for commercial and domestic uses. If you need an EV charger installed at your home or business, contact our friendly team via 1800 940 413 or info@ehlerthelectrical.com.au

What to do in an electrical emergency

Electrical emergencies can happen unexpectedly at home, work, or the community. They can be caused by damaged wiring, malfunctioning appliances, electrical fires, fallen powerlines and more. In such situations, quick and decisive action can help prevent further damage and ensure the safety of everyone involved.

Here are some essential steps you should take if you find yourself in an electrical emergency, depending on the situation.

If someone is receiving an electric shock

Firstly, if someone is receiving an electric shock, it's important not to touch them as it could also be dangerous for you. In such a situation, try to turn off the power source immediately. However, if you cannot access the power source, use a non-conductive object, such as a wooden broomstick, to separate the victim from the electricity source. Avoid using metallic objects as they conduct electricity.

Next, call the Ambulance Service on 000, Australia's primary emergency number. You can use this number for emergency assistance from fixed, mobile, and pay phones. If you're using a mobile phone, you can also use 112 as the emergency service number.

Then, administer first aid if possible until the ambulance arrives, and if the victim is not breathing, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

If there are fallen overhead powerlines

In the case of fallen overhead powerlines, call 000 immediately. Do not touch anyone receiving a shock from the fallen powerlines, and keep others away from the fallen powerlines, as they can be deadly. Notify the police and the relevant electricity provider, such as Energex (13 19 62), for urgent assistance.

If there is an electrical fire

In an electrical fire, first cut off the power source by unplugging the device causing the fire if you can safely reach it. If not, turn the power off at the switchboard.

Next, try to put out the fire with a Class C fire (electrical fire) extinguisher or an electric blanket. If you don’t have those options and the fire is small, you can throw baking soda on it to smother it, as it releases carbon dioxide when heated and prevents the fire from getting the oxygen it needs.

Do not use water to put out an electrical fire if your power is still on, as it is a conductor of electricity and can potentially spread the fire and cause an electric shock.

If you cannot extinguish an electrical fire, it is crucial to evacuate immediately to prevent injury or loss of life. Close the door behind you to contain the fire and call 000 when you are safe. Do not re-enter the building until firefighters have arrived and contained the fire.

If you have managed to extinguish the fire, call an emergency electrician, who will inspect and repair the damage to the electrical source or equipment that caused the fire. The electrician will also advise when the power can be safely switched back on.

If you feel shocks & tingles from electrical equipment or metal fittings

If you feel a tingling or shock from electrical equipment, a tap or other metal fittings, it is crucial to take it seriously, as it could be life-threatening. If the shock is from permanent electrical equipment, like a stove or electric hot water system, stop using it immediately and contact a licensed electrician. If the shock is from a tap, pipe, or other metal fitting, call Energex immediately and ask them to check your property.

If you have an electrical emergency at work

Your employer must have first aid arrangements and plans to deal with emergencies in your place of work. If you are a business owner operating in Queensland and need advice, visit Work Safe Qld for more information.

Do you require an electrical safety inspection or an emergency electrician?

Ehlerth Electrical can assist with electrical safety inspections and maintenance for your home or business to reduce the risk of electrical emergencies. And if you ever need electrical assistance in an emergency, our team is available for emergency call-outs 24/7. Call us on 1800 940 413.

The importance of getting your air conditioner deep cleaned

Your air conditioning systems will likely work overtime with hotter than predicted summer approaching. If you are worried whether your AC unit is working at its optimum, now is the perfect time to schedule an air conditioning deep clean by a professional. But before you consider your next steps, let's dive into what a deep clean is and how it can impact your health, energy bills, and AC system longevity.

What is an air conditioner deep clean?

An air conditioner deep clean includes cleaning internal components such as coils, fins and drainage to remove the unit's dust, mould, and bacteria buildup. We recommend getting a deep clean annually to keep your air conditioner running at its best or even more frequently if you live in a dusty or humid area and your air conditioner runs overtime.

In the meantime, you can clean the dust filters yourself per the manufacturer's instructions - a few times a year is recommended to ensure optimum performance.

A professional should do a deep clean as it involves removing, thoroughly cleaning and sanitising (using non-toxic products) electric components, flushing the drain, testing the unit for any excess moisture, and checking the external unit for any damage, obstructions or mould growth.

Benefits of getting your air conditioner deep cleaned

Regularly cleaning and maintaining your air conditioning unit is crucial to ensure better air quality and energy efficiency, lower running costs and maximised unit life span.

When drawing in air from your environment, the air conditioning unit filters out pollutants like dust, pollen and dead skin particles to produce cool or hot air. However, over time, if the unit is not maintained, these contaminants can clog the system and lead to the formation of mould, dust and bacteria, which can be dangerous for individuals with respiratory issues or allergies. Additionally, a clogged system means the unit won't function optimally, leading to higher cooling costs and potential unit breakdowns that could be costly to fix.

Need your air conditioner deep cleaned by a professional?

Can't remember the last time you had your AC professionally cleaned? Give us a call! Ehlerth Electrical specialises in installation, maintenance, deep cleaning and repair for various air conditioning systems, including split and ducted, to ensure a year-round comfortable living and working environment. Contact us today to book.

Ehlerth Electrical Wins ‘Emerging Business of the Year’ at the 2023 electrical industry Excellence Awards

Brisbane based Ehlerth Electrical has won the Emerging Business of the Year Award for South Queensland at the Master Electricians Australia Excellence Awards on Saturday 5 August, in Brisbane. The team was recognised as finalists across nine categories.

The Emerging Business of the Year award recognises achievement and business growth in the critical early years. This category is applicable to new contracting businesses established less than seven years ago.

“I am thrilled for my team to be nominated across eight categories and win the Emerging Business of the Year Award in our region,” said Brent Ehlerth, Director and Founder of Ehlerth Electrical.

“Thank you to Master Electricians Australia for recognising small businesses in this category. The early years are challenging yet rewarding, and I thank my team for their hard work and commitment to safety, quality and excellent customer service they deliver daily.

“We continually strive to provide the highest quality workmanship and service and invest in our team and their learning and development, so it is a tremendous honour to be recognised for it and be celebrated amongst the country's top sparkies and electrical businesses.”

The Ehlerth Electrical team had a total of 9 finalists across 8 different categories in the South Queensland awards:

1. Emerging Business of the Year FINALIST and WINNER: Ehlerth Electrical

2. Master Electrician (Business) of the Year FINALIST: Ehlerth Electrical

3. Service Business of the Year FINALIST: Ehlerth Electrical

4. Women in Contracting Award FINALIST: Rachel Hayes-Weymouth

5. Electrician (Tradie) of the Year FINALIST: Joel Lawrence

6. Electrician (Tradie) of the Year FINALIST: Brock Preston

7. Apprentice of the Year (1st or 2nd year) FINALIST: Jared Taylor

8. Apprentice of the Year (3rd or 4th year) FINALIST: Ethan Apruzzese

9. Project of the Year (under $1M electrical spend) FINALIST: EV Charger Installations for the Department of Main Roads

Contact the team today if you need assistance in the following electrical fields: domestic, commercial, solar, air-conditioning, communications, industrial and hazardous areas.

Ehlerth Electrical's office is located at 35/16 Crockford Street, Northgate. Office hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm but they also offer 24/7 service for emergency call-outs.

The Ehlerth Electrical team at the Master Electricians Australia’s 2023 Electrical Industry Excellence Awards