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Knob and Tube Wiring: What Are the Different Ways to Deal With it?

Date : 2020-10-14

You’ve found a home you love in Toronto and are going through the process to make the purchase final. As you’re completing the necessary steps, you hear the home inspector say, “knob and tube wiring.” While these words can be concerning, understand that there are ways to handle the situation.




The cost to replace knob and tube wiring can be significant, and that often drives people away. However, when you work with a certified electrician who has extensive experience dealing with old wiring, you’ll get a much better idea of what needs to be done, costs, and how you can complete the work in a professional and reasonable way.
Knob and Tube Wiring Removal

Knob and tube wiring was used up until about 70 years ago because synthetic wire insulation hadn’t been developed yet. This means, that houses wired using old technology use cloth-based materials which are no longer deemed to be safe, and usually are ungrounded.

Even if the knob and tube wiring found in Toronto and throughout the GTA was well installed originally and hasn’t been tampered with, it still is not safe. Almost all insurance companies won’t grant you house insurance if your home still has an outdated electrical system.

What are your options for knob and tube wiring removal? As with anything, the bigger the project, the higher the cost. Some need complete house electrical rewire. Most homes have some newer wires in the kitchen and basement. The cost to replace knob and tube wiring is higher when there are additional floors or no attic. But it’s the only truly safe option for you and your family. It simply isn’t compatible with the electrical needs of a modern household.

Upgrade Your Outdated Wiring with Langstaff & Sloan

Knob and tube wiring has been our area of expertise since 1996. At Langstaff & Sloan, we can assess your outdated wiring, provide you with a recommended plan and we’ll even take ownership of the patching required to repair any holes made during our work. While you may be hesitant to replace all your knob and tube, your only safe option is to be rid of it entirely. Our team would be happy to advise you regarding the feasibility of various upgrade options. Contact us today to get started.

Source: https://langstaffandsloan.com/different-ways-to-deal-with-knob-and-tube-wiring/
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Uncovering Some of The Most Common Problems in Commercial Electrical Systems

Date : 2020-10-14

While they may not provide the same type of comfort as a home, it’s very important for commercial buildings to operate properly to keep everyone safe. Commercial electricians in Toronto are often called to handle various types of electrical issues that can affect productivity and profitability.



You may be tempted to try and handle your building’s electrical work on your own with a quick fix, but understand that nothing compares to hiring electrical contractors in Toronto to get the job done. Commercial buildings have a much more complicated electrical set up than an average home and you should rely on the expert skills and knowledge of an electrician to fix any issues your business might be having.

Hire Commercial Electricians in Toronto to Fix These Common Issues

Any electrical issues should never be ignored. Even simple problems like intermittent outlets can be a sign of something much more serious and could lead to an electrical fire. Licensed electricians in Toronto will be able to diagnose the problem, offer solutions and then ensure the work is done safely and up to code.

Here are some of the most common electrical problems in commercial buildings that mean you should call a professional electrician.
  • Flickering or dimming lights. If you’re experiencing this issue and replacing the bulbs doesn’t help, problems with your circuits might be the cause.
  • Breakers tripping. If your commercial space is using too much energy, it will cause your electrical system to overload which might start a fire. A good electrical contractor in Toronto will be able to determine if your space needs to add a circuit or needs to upgrade the electrical panel.
  • Bad outlets. Not only can outlets that don’t work lower productivity, but they can also be a sign that there is a poor circuit connection or excessive buildup of heat.
  • Unprotected wiring. Commercial spaces need to have secure and protected wiring to avoid running into issues with power supply. A qualified electrician in Toronto will be well versed in building regulations and be able to advise you how and where your wiring should be placed to protect it from tampering or being exposed to the elements.
  • Loose connections. These can occur over time or as a result of any renovation or repair in the building.
  • Faulty installation. If a professional electrician in Toronto is not used initially to install equipment and the required wiring, you’ll likely end up with electrical issues. If work is done without the know how to check for mistakes and problems, you’ll most likely end up calling an electrician to fix the errors.
  • Not enough outlets. Commercial spaces are busy spaces, and with the continued growth and use of technology, businesses need lots of outlets to support their work. Relying on power cords and extension cords is unsafe and is not a viable solution.

Langstaff & Sloan – Electricians in Toronto That Can Support Your Commercial Needs

Keeping commercial buildings running well means having the electrical work inspected regularly and any problems tended to by a reputable commercial electrician like Langstaff & Sloan. Our experienced and licensed electricians can help keep your employees and visitors safe while supporting what you need to maintain smooth operation each and every day. To find out more about how to ensure your commercial electrical system is set up to support your success, contact us.

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Why Your Circuit Breaker Needs to Have the Right Load Capacity

Date : 2020-10-14

Electrical wiring services may be needed for a variety of reasons, but an issue that is commonly faced by both residential and commercial properties includes an overloaded circuit. Based on what space is used for, different homes or buildings in Toronto need different amp services. While a 200-amp service is good for a home larger than 2,000 square feet that has central air-conditioning and electric heat, it’s important to be aware of how many amps your space may need based on your specific usage.


So, what does happen to your circuit breaker if you don’t have the right load capacity? Well, what you’ll experience at the very least is a power outage which may result in a few plugs not working or something larger that affects your entire home. More seriously, an overload can cause circuit wiring to overheat, which can melt the wire insulation and lead to an electrical fire.

Is an Electrical Panel Upgrade the Right Thing to Do?

Each electrical circuit is designed to handle a limited amount of electricity. An overload will occur when you draw more electricity than a circuit can safely handle. Residential or commercial contractors in Toronto should be your first call if you suspect your electrical wiring system is over its capacity. Based on their assessment, they can determine what electrical wiring services are needed to update your system safely.

While installing a new circuit is a simple process, in many cases, the existing panel wouldn’t be able to handle the extra load. As a result, an electrical panel upgrade is often the best answer. Your electrical panel is really the central nervous system for your home, and when it’s properly outfitted to handle all your current and future electrical needs, you can rest easy knowing your family or your employees are safe. In addition to an electrical panel upgrade, a professional electrician can also install additional outlets to help redistribute the loads between your circuits.

Signs of overloaded circuits include:

  • A breaker tripping and shutting off all your power.
  • Dimming lights, especially if it occurs when you turn on appliances or other lights.
  • Buzzing outlets or switches.
  • Outlets or switch covers that feel warm when you touch them.
  • Burning odours from your outlets or switches.
  • Scorched plugs or outlets.

If any of these problems persist, contact a residential or commercial contractor in Toronto that can provide certified electrical services and give you more information about a panel upgrade or about fixing other issues they may find.

Ensure Electrical Safety with Langstaff & Sloan

Should you need to make changes to the electrical in your home or office, always work with a certified and reputable electrician, such as Langstaff & Sloan. We’ll apply for an electrical permit, if required, and work with the inspections department when the project is completed to ensure everything is done properly. Working with a professional electrician not only ensures the right technique but also confirms that your home’s circuitry and electrical wiring will follow a sound plan that will help maximize your enjoyment of the space. To find out more about how Langstaff & Sloan can support your needs, contact us.

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How to Find the Best Electricians Near Etobicoke

Date : 2020-10-14

If you’re in need of an electrician in Etobicoke to complete work in your home or in your office, it’s very important to take the time to find one that’s reputable and experienced. Just because someone says they’re an electrician, that’s not enough of a reason to trust them to do a job correctly.


Hiring a professional licensed electrician in Etobicoke means it will be easier for you to get the work done properly and feel confident in the solutions provided. By taking the time to research electricians and making the right hire, you’ll get the best results and set your home or office up for safety and for success.

Tips for Finding Licensed Electricians in Etobicoke You Can Trust

You’ve made the decision that hiring a trustworthy and experienced electrician in Etobicoke is what you want to do, but how do you find the right people for the job? Use these tips to get started. Whether you need a commercial electrician or have a residential job that needs doing, the information below will make it easier to find an experienced professional you can count on.

Credentials.

When you’re looking for an electrician, finding someone with the credentials to serve you is imperative. In Ontario, all Electrical Contractors must be licensed and show their ESA/ECRA credentials on all company communication, ads and vehicles. If you don’t see it, it’s time to move on.

In addition to their license, make sure that they’re insured, and in good standing with WSIB. This quick research will help you better understand their skill set, what they specialize in, and more importantly, that they’re legally able to do the work you need completed.

References and reviews.

Even if they can provide all the right credentials, that doesn’t mean they’re who you want to work with. It’s also important to get confirmation that they’re successful in how they treat customers and, in the work that they do.

Look to see if they have testimonials online, and not just the ones they put up themselves on the company webpage. Reading what previous customers are saying is an excellent way to find out more about a company’s standards and best practices. Google Reviews, The Better Business Bureau, and HomeStars are all great places to start when researching electricians in Etobicoke.
Get Some Estimates.

When you have narrowed it down to a few companies, it’s time to dig a bit deeper. In order to get an idea of how the company operates and how much the work you need may cost, reach out and get some estimates.

Any residential or commercial electrician worth hiring should be able to take the time to provide you with a comprehensive estimate, answer any questions you have and leave you with a written quote for potential work you’ve inquired about. From replacing knob and tube wiring to adding outlets, get a sense of their pricing for your jobs.


Langstaff & Sloan: Etobicoke Electricians You Can Trust

As a homeowner, property manager or commercial property owner, it’s absolutely essential that you find and build a relationship with the best electricians in your local area. Not only will you feel safe knowing that your electrical is properly installed and maintained, but you’ll immediately know who to call in the event that you run into issues.

Langstaff & Sloan has been working as trusted electricians in the Etobicoke area for almost 20 years. Our licensed, bonded and insured electricians take great care to handle all jobs professionally while prioritizing customer satisfaction. We have expertise in both commercial and residential electrical work and would be happy to work with you. Contact us for an estimate and to learn more about our company.

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