Voltage and Frequency Regulation
By adjusting voltage levels and maintaining the frequency of the power supply, a UPS ensures that sensitive equipment receives stable power.
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is a system that provides temporary power in the event of a utility power failure. These systems act as a buffer, ensuring a continuous electricity supply to protect equipment from power abnormalities and potential disruptions. UPS systems are crucial for maintaining power in essential facilities such as hospitals, airports, control centres, and manufacturing plants.
A UPS system requires regular inspection, testing, and maintenance to function properly during critical times. A well-maintained UPS system could mean the difference between seamless operations and significant downtime during power outages.
how does a ups work?
A UPS system protects your electrical equipment from power failures by providing the following:
SURGE PROTECTION
Selecting the right UPS system is crucial for protecting your equipment from power surges and voltage spikes, preventing significant damage to your facility.
BACKUP POWER
In the event of a blackout, battery backup power provides immediate power, preventing data loss and equipment damage.
NOISE FILTERING
“Noise” refers to unwanted electrical disturbances that can disrupt normal device operations. A UPS isolates equipment from noise, protecting it from disruptions.
BENEFITs OF A UPS SYSTEM
A reliable UPS system ensures uninterrupted power for critical operations during outages while protecting equipment from damage caused by electrical surges and fluctuations.
our solutions
At Houle, we provide comprehensive solutions to meet your specific needs. Our services include:
- UPS Installation: Houle works with manufacturers to provide the right solution for your business,
from product selection to final installation. - Preventative Maintenance: Regular inspections and tests ensure that your UPS system operates efficiently. This includes checking for alarms, inspecting battery conditions, and ensuring all components function properly.
- Efficient Service: The unique tagging system and detailed inventory allow for precise and efficient service, minimizing downtime and disruptions.
- Battery Testing: Battery testing is a critical component of UPS maintenance. The batteries must be in optimal condition to supply the load during utility interruptions.
annual and semi-annual mainTENANCE services
To keep your UPS system running smoothly, we recommend:
- Annual Maintenance: A thorough service that includes physical inspections, testing of operations, and verification of critical load support.
- Quarterly/Semi-Annual Maintenance: Regular inspections to ensure consistent performance and address any emerging issues.
CONTACT US TODAY!
A UPS system is an essential asset for any facility that relies on continuous power. At Houle, we are dedicated to keeping your operations uninterrupted. Our backup power solutions ensure a seamless power supply, protecting you from outages and keeping your essential applications ready for action. To schedule an inspection, call us at 1.844.GO.HOULE or click here to learn more about the importance of electrical preventative maintenance.
Questions?
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Infrared scanning is an advanced technology that uses specialized cameras to detect abnormal heat signatures invisible to the naked eye. Also known as thermal imaging, IR scanning is a valuable preventative measure in identifying hot spots before disruptions or electrical disasters occur. Interpreting thermal images requires expertise because different materials emit heat in various ways. This is why having a qualified thermographer is essential for accurately diagnosing potential issues
BENEFITS OF INFRARED SCANNING
Predict. Prevent. Protect.
Early Detection
Identify issues early to reduce costly repairs and disruption. Infrared scanning can detect heat build-up from electrical overload, which can lead to breakdowns, helping prevent costly downtime and potential safety hazards.
Preventative Maintenance
Infrared scanning is an integral tool for electrical preventative maintenance. IR scanning provides real-time assessment data that helps facility managers plan and schedule repairs before problems arise. By using infrared scanning, you can extend the lifespan of your equipment, manage your budget more effectively, and reduce unexpected downtime, maintaining the health of your facility.
Data-Informed Decisions
Infrared scanning offers valuable data that allows property managers to monitor their equipment’s condition effectively. This information supports informed decisions about repairs and replacements while meeting insurance requirements. Many building insurance policies now require regular electrical maintenance checks, with detailed infrared scanning reports becoming an annual necessity rather than just a recommendation.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM AN INFRARED INSPECTION rEPORT
At Houle, our Infrared Inspection Reports offer detailed insights and valuable information:
- Thermal Analysis: We use top-of-the-line FLIR T540 series infrared cameras to identify and analyze temperature variations in your electrical systems, helping to pinpoint potential problems without disrupting operations.
- Visual Inspection: Our Red Seal Electricians perform a thorough visual inspection to uncover any electrical code or safety issues, ensuring a comprehensive assessment.
- Detailed Inventory: We provide a complete inventory of your site, including photographs. This documentation is beneficial for insurance purposes and offers a clear overview of the inspected equipment.
- Unique Equipment Tagging: Each piece of equipment is tagged with a unique reference number. This system streamlines service calls and repairs, ensuring that our electricians arrive with the right parts and knowledge about the equipment in question.
WHY CHOOSE HOULE?
- Safety: We prioritize safety by ensuring that all our thermographers and electricians are equipped with the proper PPE and have completed comprehensive Arc Flash Training.
- Expertise and Certification: Our Thermographers are both FLIR-trained and Red Seal Electricians, ensuring high-quality analysis and compliance with industry standards.
- Efficient Service: The unique tagging system and detailed inventory allow for precise and efficient service, minimizing downtime and disruptions.
- Local Support: With local support and minimal travel time, we offer cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.
CONTACT US TODAY!
Infrared scanning and visual inspections are essential for keeping your electrical systems working safely and reliably. Through early detection of hotspots and electrical issues, you can prevent unexpected outages and avoid costly repairs. Routine electrical preventative maintenance will save you money and could be the difference between a $500 fix and an unplanned $10,000 repair. To schedule an inspection, call us at 1.844.GO.HOULE or click here to learn more about the importance of electrical preventative maintenance.
Questions?
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Are you an apprentice, student, or journeyperson looking to advance your construction career? Available to Houle employees, Build Your Skills is a comprehensive program designed to equip you with essential tools and knowledge to succeed in the construction industry. With a wide range of free resources—including online courses, interactive activities, and video tutorials—Build Your Skills supports you at every step of your journey in the skilled trades.
Why Enroll in Build Your Skills?
At Houle, we understand the importance of continuous learning and career development in the construction industry. Whether you aim to strengthen your trade knowledge, excel in apprenticeship training, or prepare for your Red Seal or trade certification, Build Your Skills offers interactive lessons and step-by-step guidance to help you master even the most challenging technical concepts.
Free Access to Resources
As a Houle employee, you get free access to resources, including training videos and tutoring, to support your professional growth.
Gear Up for the Trades
Enhance your skills with exercises tailored for the trades. Improve your proficiency in math, science, and reading—skills that are crucial for success in the trades.
Grow Your Career in Construction
Support your apprenticeship training and exam preparation. With resources tailored to achieving your Red Seal or trade certification, you can take your career to new heights.
How to enroll for free
Getting started with Build Your Skills is easy and completely free for Houle employees. Simply register, and within three business days, you’ll receive an email with your account details.
For more details, visit SkillPlan Learning Hub.
Gear Up for the Trades
Are you seeking residential electrical services to support your home improvement projects? From power upgrades and inspections to EV charger installations, our licensed electricians will ensure your home’s electrical systems are safe and tailored to meet all your electrical needs.
Home Renovations
Embarking on a home renovation can be exciting but overwhelming, especially when it comes to integrating advanced electrical systems. Our licensed electricians offer expert guidance for complex wiring, energy-efficient improvements, and smart home technologies. We go beyond mere installations; we design electrical plans specific to your renovation needs, ensuring compliance with local codes and safety standards. Here’s how we can assist:
Electrical Receptacles
Safe and proper electrical connections for appliances like dishwashers, refrigerators, washers, and dryers with our professional wiring, grounding, and protection measures.
Hot tub/Spa Installations
Enhance your outdoor space with professional electrical solutions for hot tubs and saunas.
Kitchen Remodelling
From stylish lighting fixtures to appliance upgrades, we’ll electrify your kitchen makeover.
Bathroom/Ensuite Remodelling
Upgrade your bathrooms with superior lighting, in-floor heating, and more.
Ventilation
Improve air quality with advanced ventilation solutions.
Basement Renovations
Turn your basement into a functional space with the right electrical setup for home theaters or offices.
Rental Suites
Leverage BC’s Secondary Suite Incentive Program for rental suite installations that attract tenants.
See if you’re eligible for the program, click here.
Lighting
Take control of your property’s lighting ambiance and energy usage with our customizable lighting design options, including dimmer switches, smart lighting systems, and more.
Heating & Cooling
Upgrading your heating and cooling system? Proper electrical infrastructure is crucial. Our electricians are experts in equipping your home with modern HVAC systems, ensuring efficient operation and energy savings:
Our Services
Expert Electrical Assessment
Before installation, we conduct a thorough evaluation of your existing electrical system to determine if upgrades or changes are necessary to support your new HVAC equipment. This includes detailed load calculations to ensure that your electrical panel and circuits can handle the increased demand.
Permit Procurement and Compliance
Navigating the complexities of building codes and permits can be challenging. Our team handles all aspects of compliance. From acquiring the necessary permits to ensuring that all installations meet local electrical codes and regulations.
Professional Installation Services
We don’t just stop at assessing and preparing your electrical systems. Our experts also manage the complete installation process. From wiring your new heat pump or air conditioning unit to integrating it with your home’s existing electrical system. This ensures that all components work seamlessly together for optimal performance.
Maintenance and Emergency Repairs
To keep your HVAC system running efficiently and safely, we provide ongoing maintenance services. Moreover, our team can assist with emergency repairs, solving issues quickly to maintain your system’s reliability and your home’s comfort.
Smart Home Integration
As technology advances, integrating HVAC systems with smart home technology is becoming increasingly popular. We can help connect your heating and cooling systems to smart thermostats and other devices. We also help enable automatic adjustments and energy savings.
Electrical Safety Inspections
Regular inspections are vital for ensuring the safety and efficiency of your electrical and HVAC systems. Our comprehensive inspection services help identify potential issues before they become major problems, providing peace of mind and saving you money in the long run.
EV Charging
Considering an EV charger for your home? Our comprehensive services include everything from securing permits to choosing the right charger, ensuring a smooth installation:
Electrical Permits
Our licensed electricians can obtain electrical permits for EV charger installations, ensuring compliance with local regulations and safety standards.
Service Upgrades
Upgrade your service to support the power demands of an EV charger.
EV Chargers
Choose the best charger for your needs and let us handle the installation.
Power-Switching Devices
Optimize your energy usage with smart charging solutions.
Electrical Repairs and Upgrade
Ensure your home is safe with our top-notch electrical repair and upgrade services. Whether it’s outdated wiring or a panel upgrade, our team is ready to tackle any challenge, 24/7.
Wiring
Upgrade outdated systems to meet current safety standards
Electrical Panels
Enhance your home’s power capacity with a panel upgrade.
Click here to learn more about our electrical repairs and upgrade services.
Home Inspections
From pre-purchase evaluations to renovations, our inspections provide a detailed overview of your home’s electrical systems, helping you make informed decisions and ensuring compliance with all regulations.
Services Mentioned
CONTACT US TODAY
At Houle, we’re committed to delivering exceptional electrical services tailored to your unique needs. Contact us today for all your electrical needs! Contact us today for all your electrical needs!
To understand more about residential electrical service, click here.
LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR NEXT PROJECT.
Understanding your home or residential electrical service is vital for safety, efficiency, and comfort. This guide will demystify the basics of residential electrical services, helping homeowners make informed decisions about maintenance, upgrades, and compliance.
Electrical Service explained
Residential electrical service is the system that distributes electricity throughout your home, starting from the meter box where the utility company’s responsibility ends. It includes your main breaker panel, circuits, and all wiring, outlets, and fixtures.
determining your Service Size
Service size, measured in amperes (amps), indicates the capacity of your home’s electrical system. Modern homes typically require between 100 to 200 amps to safely power all devices and appliances. If your home is older, with only 60 amps, upgrading may be necessary to support today’s electrical loads and enhance safety.
Key Components of Your Electrical System
- Service Drop: Connection point from the utility’s lines to your home.
- Meter Box: Tracks electricity usage for billing.
- Main Breaker Panel: Distributes electricity to various circuits and provides a safety mechanism against overloads.
- Circuits and Wires: Delivers power within the home and includes safety features like circuit breakers to prevent overloading and potential fires.
When to Consider an Electrical Upgrade
Signs you might need an upgrade include frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, or the addition of high-power appliances. Upgrading from 100 to 200 amps improves safety and increases your home’s value.
Safety Tips
- Hire a licensed electrician for any major electrical work.
- Regularly inspect and replace worn or damaged cords and fixtures.
- Avoid overloading outlets and use power strips sparingly.
- Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) in areas exposed to moisture like kitchens and bathrooms.
Navigating Compliance and Permits:
Electrical upgrades often require permits and must comply with local building codes. This ensures safety and avoids complications when selling your home. Always check with your local building department before starting significant electrical work.
Boosting Energy Efficiency
Upgrading your electrical system can also lead to better energy efficiency. Consider integrating LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, and smart devices that automatically manage electricity usage, reducing costs and environmental impact.
Services Mentioned
Contact us!
Every homeowner should have a basic understanding of their home’s electrical service. Whether you’re considering an upgrade or simply maintaining your current system, being well-informed will help you ensure your home is safe, efficient, and up to code. Invest in your electrical infrastructure to safeguard and enhance your living environment. Contact us for all your electrical needs!
To learn more about the residential electrical services we offer, visit here.
Get in touch today.
Are you a strata or property manager, business owner, or homeowner? The demand for electric vehicle (EV) charging is on the rise and now is the perfect time to get your property EV Ready by expanding your EV charging infrastructure. The Province of BC is moving forward with its zero-emission vehicle targets and as of October 31st, 2023, it has approved another $6.59M in funding to re-open the CleanBC Go Electric EV Charger Rebate Program for Homes and Workplaces.
What does this mean? Whether you’re thinking of starting the planning process to upgrade your property, or your building is already approved for EV charger installation, there are BC Hydro EV charger rebates available to help you save up to 50-75% of the costs, while funding lasts.
How it Works
MULTI-UNIT HOMES (APARTMENT, CONDO & TOWNHOME COMPLEXES)
EV Ready Plan
If your complex is not already pre-approved by BC Hydro for EV charger installation, you will need an EV Ready Plan. This is a professional document for your building to make at least one parking space per residential unit EV Ready, which includes the electrical infrastructure to support EV chargers.
If your plan is completed by a licensed electrical contractor or electrical engineer, you could receive a rebate of up to 75% of the costs of creating the plan, to a maximum of $3,000. Note that an EV Ready Plan is simply a starting point and does not require you to move forward with installation.
EV INFRASTRUCTURE
Once your EV Ready Plan is complete and approved, you can proceed with the installation of electrical infrastructure to support EV chargers. This could include electrical service upgrades, wiring, and civil works. While funding lasts, you could receive a rebate of up to 50% of the installation costs, to a maximum of $600 per parking stall, and a project maximum of $120,000. Note: while having the right electrical infrastructure is critical to being EV Ready, EV charging devices can be installed later.
EV CHARGER INSTALLATION
Once the electrical infrastructure is in place, you’ll be ready for EV charger installation. You could receive a rebate of up to 50% of the costs, up to a maximum of $1,400 per charger to purchase and install Level 2 networked EV chargers, to a maximum of $14,000.
Standalone EV Charging Stations
For standalone EV chargers at workplaces (for employee use) and multi-unit homes, BC Hydro is offering rebates of up to 50% of costs up to a maximum of $2,000 per charger to purchase and install eligible Level 2 networked EV chargers, to a maximum of $14,000. The building must be pre-approved.
Single-Family Homes
Owners or residents of single-family homes, row homes, or duplexes that purchase and install an eligible Level 2 EV charger could receive a rebate of up to 50% of costs, to a maximum of $350. BC Hydro is also offering incentives of up to $250 for single-family home customers who install eligible EV chargers, and power management rebates for installing power-switching devices.
Why Upgrade Now?
- Take advantage of BC Hydro EV charger rebates and incentive programs before they run out
- Make your property ready for the rising demand for electric vehicles
- Attract eco-conscious residents, employees, and customers looking for EV charging capabilities
- Make your property ready to meet future regulatory requirements
- Increase your property value with the presence of EV chargers
- Increase revenue generation through visitor charging stalls
- Support sustainability and protect the environment through reduced emissions
EV Rebate Summary
EV Ready Plan
save up to 75%
($3,000 MAx)
When working with a licensed electrical contractor.
infrastructure
save up to 50%
($120k MAx)
On electrical work required to support EV charging.
charger install
save up to 50%
($1,400 MAx)
Per Level 2 charger, to a max. of $14,000.
Standalone charger
Save up to 50% costs, to a maximum of $2,000 per charger
For multi-unit homes & workplaces.
Single-Family Homes
save up to 50%
($350 max)
Save an additional $250 on eligible smart EV chargers, and, ask us about rebates for
installing power-switching devices.
Services Mentioned
READY FOR THE NEXT STEP?
As a licensed electrical contractor, working in Vancouver and across BC, we can help with all your EV charging needs and help maximize your eligibility for EV charger rebates. From developing EV Ready plans and pulling electrical permits to installing electrical infrastructure, EV chargers, and power-switching devices for homes, our EV charger installers and certified electricians have you covered. From residential to commercial properties, we’ll ensure that your project meets all regulatory requirements. To start your EV Ready Plan, you can request a service or call us at 1.844.GO.HOULE.
Click here for more info on the CleanBC Go Electric EV Charger Rebate Program.
Connect with us.
Electrical preventative maintenance is crucial for any building, whether commercial, residential, institutional, or industrial and infrastructure. It focuses on catching issues with your building’s electrical equipment and preventing unplanned outages and disruptive failures. From a property management perspective, this could mean the difference between a $500 fix and a $10,000 repair.
To establish an effective electrical preventative maintenance program, several key elements come into play, including annual electrical operating permits, annual infrared scanning, and electrical distribution maintenance. Let’s delve deeper into these essential components:
Annual Electrical Operating Permits
To ensure the safe operation, maintenance, and inspection of electrical equipment, Technical Safety BC or your local municipality mandates annual electrical operating permits for facilities working with such equipment.
Whether your building falls under the category of commercial, residential, industrial, or institutional, we can help you set up and apply for your annual electrical operating permit through Technical Safety BC or your local municipality.
Infrared Scanning
We use infrared cameras to identify deficiencies in electrical equipment through the detection of abnormal heating. This can help catch potential issues before they cause a system failure or outage.
Benefits of Infrared Scanning
- Our scans are conducted by Red Seal Electricians and certified Thermographers.
- We use top-of-the-line testing and personal protection equipment.
- Our comprehensive problem analysis is presented in an easy-to-understand report that complies with insurance requirements.
- By identifying and addressing potential problems early on, we help you avoid equipment failure and operational disruption.
Electrical Distribution Maintenance
Our electrical distribution maintenance includes the maintenance of switchgear and transformers that feed power from the electrical service provider to your building.
Maintenance is required every 42 months for dual radial switchgear and recommended for single high-voltage feed switchgear.
We can plan and complete shutdowns outside of working hours to reduce disruption to building occupants.
Houle Preventative Maintenance Solutions
With our preventative maintenance solutions, you can avoid equipment failure and operational disruption, ensure safe and reliable electrical systems, and comply with insurance requirements.
Contact us today to discover how our preventative maintenance solutions can benefit your property!
CONNECT WITH US
When it comes to electrical work, it’s essential to prioritize safety and quality. Electrical systems can be complex and potentially dangerous if not installed or maintained correctly. That’s why it’s crucial to hire a licensed electrician for your electrical service needs to ensure that the work performed meets safety codes and standards. Here are 5 key benefits of choosing a licensed electrician for your electrical service needs:
Safety
In British Columbia, Technical Safety BC regulates electrical work, enforcing strict safety codes and standards to ensure safe and accurate installations. Hiring professional electricians in BC is mandatory as they possess the training and licenses to work safely with electricity while adhering to these safety codes and regulations. Hiring an experienced and licensed electrical contractor for your electrical service needs ensures that your electrical system is safe for everyone in your home and/or workplace.
Code Compliance
In BC, all electrical work must comply with the BC Electrical Code, which sets out specific standards and requirements for electrical installations, repairs, and maintenance. Professional electricians in BC are familiar with the code and are required to ensure that your electrical system meets all the necessary requirements. By hiring a licensed electrician, you will avoid fines and penalties for non-compliance and ensure that your electrical system is up to code.
Quality Work
Licensed electricians in BC are trained and experienced in installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems. They have the necessary knowledge and skills to diagnose and solve electrical problems quickly and efficiently. This saves you time and money while ensuring your electrical system works correctly. By hiring a licensed electrician, you can trust that your electrical work will be high quality and up to code.
Insurance
Don’t be fooled by lower prices if you’re trying to save money when hiring an electrician. You often get what you pay for, which is also true with electrical work. If work is completed by an unlicenced contractor without a permit, you could be subject to fines and serious safety concerns. Even worse, if an incident occurs, your insurance policy may become null and void leaving you with costly repairs.
Peace of Mind
As a property manager or homeowner, you have a lot on your plate. Electrical problems can be stressful and disruptive, especially if they occur unexpectedly. With a licensed electrician, you can have peace of mind knowing that your electrical system is in good hands. They can identify and fix electrical problems quickly and efficiently. This allows you to focus on your daily activities without worrying about your electrical system.
Contact us today!
To ensure that your electrical system is safe, reliable, and up to code, contact Houle today for all your electrical services needs. Our team of expert electricians has the knowledge, experience, and tools to handle any electrical job, big or small. Let us help keep your electrical system in top condition so you can focus on what matters most.
Services Mentioned