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Lightning and electrical surge protection

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How to protect your home against lightning bolts and overvoltage

There’s no doubt that the weather is becoming more extreme. Hotter than average summers and wet winters are now the norm. As well as the impact climate change is having on the environment, there is also speculation that it is causing more powerful storms. We discuss how these storms, and other electrical surges, can impact your home and business.

In this blog you will discover:

  • How big is the risk?
  • How a surge protection device works?
  • How do they work?
  • Getting it installed

How big is the risk?                                                                                                                                    We all know the usual recommendations people make when there’s a lightning storm. Don’t stand near trees, avoid electrical equipment, steer clear of water. But do you know that there are precautions you can take to protect your home and business from lightening damage.

Amazingly 1 in every 200 homes will be struck by lightning each year. These strikes can create major problems with your electrical systems and appliances, and in extreme cases even start fires.

What some people may not know is that our houses are also susceptible to similar electrical surges following power cuts. However, there are cheap and hassle-free preventions that can give you peace of mind and reduce your insurance costs.

How do they work?
Surge protection devices work by intercepting incoming surges and redirecting the excess voltage. These devices can be fitted at the installation, at distribution boards and near terminal equipment.

It’s important to note that selecting the right type of protection will be dependent on the type of electrical installation and the equipment connected to it. An electrical engineer will be able review your property and its contents and advise accordingly.

Sometimes electricians recommend combining several levels of surge protection devices. This takes advantage of the best features of each device to improve the protection level for the equipment.

What are the benefits?
The benefits of fitting these protection mechanisms are numerous. Firstly, they stop the electrical surge from causing fires. This can happen when the surge comes to in to contact with flammable material such as gas pipes and wood. This is one of the most serious effects of lightning damage and can be catastrophic for the building and its occupants.

As mentioned above, the property’s electrical content is also at great risk. The immense surge of electrical energy travels through the circuit and can damage anything that is attached. TVs, fridges, washing machines and other expensive appliances are at risk, especially if they are frequently left plugged in.

Power cuts can also have similar effects, especially if the shortage lasts for a long time. Once the power returns, often there is a large surge of electrical current and this can damage appliances within the home in a similar way.

Insurers like the added assurance that these devices provide and often having one fitted will reduce your premium. Ask your provider about the cost benefits of these systems.

Getting it installed
Steve Rudkin Electrical Contractors have been installed these systems for both domestic and commercial clients for five years. The installation is quick and hassle-free

To find out more please contact a member of our friendly team.

Rutland Cycling Everards Meadows superstore

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Established in 1981, Rutland Cycling now boast 12 UK stores which feature dedicated electric bike centres and offer a wide range of products and services to suit all types of cyclists. With a growing market for activity-based hobbies, Rutland Cycling continues to broaden its retail footprint and opened a new store in Leicester, Everards Meadows, at the beginning of the summer.

Rutland Cycling’s Leicester premises was the first phase of a £30m development at Everards Meadows. Once complete, it will provide an exciting leisure and tourism destination for the Blaby District community and surrounding areas.

The 10,000 sq ft superstore features the latest in immersive, experiential shopping. Customers visiting the store will discover a full range of bikes and electric bikes, along with cycle clothing, parts and accessories and a fully Cytech-accredited workshop for servicing, repairs and custom upgrades. It also includes a purpose-built, traffic-free demo loop.

Steve Rudkin Electrical Contractors Ltd was appointed to provide the electrical fit-out for the new superstore. The client purchased the unit as an empty shell, so it needed a complete electrical installation.

Rutland Cycling provide a unique shopping experience for customers, so it was important that the lighting and aesthetics adhered to the corporate brand guidelines. The project team worked very closely with the client to come up with a design that encompassed the brand’s identity and helped guide the customer buying journey.

Specialist light boxes brought to life signage, directions and other graphical elements and branded LED light boxes illuminated the logo in a unique and eye-catching way. Display boxes were also installed, and display lighting ensured that merchandise was presented in an optimal way.

The latest LED track systems provided a versatile solution to allow for different types of spot and pendant lightening that can shift position. This is perfect for retail spaces where special offers and product offerings change from day-to-day.

Steve Rudkin engineers also worked with the client team to create a show-stopping centre piece in the building’s atrium entrance. Using wheels from old bikes and a bespoke lighting mechanism, the team were able to install something that was one-of-a-kind.

Sally Middlemiss, ecommerce & marketing director at Rutland Cycling, commented: “We’ve worked with Steve and the team on a number of projects and have always been delighted with the end result. Steve takes the time to understand our needs and the team work tirelessly to ensure that every detail is delivered just right. The Leicester store was a high-profile project for us, moving our retail experience up to the next level on a brand new site, just opposite Fosse Park. The lighting solution in store really helps showcase our bikes and deliver a premium look, while the bespoke bicycle wheel lights in the atrium add the final touch.”

The team provided a similar lighting and electrical solution for the client at their Milton Keynes store.

Hoppi Dorri electrical installation

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Hoppi Dorri is Stamford’s newest eatery and has opened to glowing reviews. Customers are wanting more of the Asian inspired cuisine and laid-back atmosphere.

However, it’s taken months of hard work and some seriously creative thinking to get the restaurant to where business partners, Sam Letteri and Chris Riddle, wanted it to be.

Previously a Prezzos, the restaurant needed a complete refurbishment. Sam’s concept was based around his experiences of pan-Asian and Japanese street food and he wanted Hoppi Dorri to be a holistic dining experience that took customers on a journey.

Steve Rudkin Electrical Contractors were brought on board to transform the space and give the industrial inspired interior a sense of ambiance. The specification for the project was incredibly high and Steve Rudkin worked with the client to create a lighting and electrical solution that would really wow customers.

The completely bespoke package meant that each area of the restaurant has its own identity. The whole restaurant benefits from a scene-setting LED dimming system which allows different mood settings throughout the day and night.

Special powder coated trunking, cable trays and metal conduits mean that the electrical system acts as a considered part of the interior design. This can be seen throughout the building and helps reinforce the industrial look and feel.

The client wanted to create something truly memorable for diners and decided on a colour changing stairwell and bar. The project team installed LED lighting along both sides of the stair which alternates between different colours. Beautiful canopy lighting has created an intimate outdoor area that can be used throughout the whole year.

Following the fit out, Chris Riddle commented: “We are over the moon with the service Steve and his team provided. The process was totally collaborative, and we worked together to create something that will leave a lasting memory amongst our customers.

It’s important to us that people leave with a positive impression of our restaurant, not just because of the food but because of the whole experience and we feel, that with Steve help, we have achieved this. I can’t thank the team enough and hope they are as proud of the space as we are.”

Hoppi Dorri opened at the beginning of August to a fully booked restaurant.

 

 

Home security systems

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Best ways to protect your home

Home security is becoming big business. More and more people are opting to install systems that give warning of intruders. We list some of the different devices on the market and how they work to protect you.

· Security lighting
· Security cameras
· Intercom and door entry
· Fire alarms
· Sensor/trigger alarms
· Integrated security systems

Security lighting
Installing lighting outside your home will not only make burglars more visible but it can also act as a deterrent.
They work by detecting infrared waves/microwaves that radiate from moving objects. These devices sit on the perimeter of your property and turn on if movement is detected.
Security lighting is becoming more and more intelligent, often coming with adjustable time and daylight settings.

Security cameras
Security cameras have gained more popularity over the last decade. It’s now common to see devices on both homes and businesses across the UK. They not only help deter crime, but also provide useful evidence for the police.

Security cameras come in varying specifications. You can choose from discreet cameras linked to apps or large scale CCTV systems. Finding the right system for you will depend on your requirements and the size of your property.

When you buy there are lots of different elements to consider such as position, power source and web connectivity. Seek a professional’s advice before purchasing and installing.

Intercom and door entry 
These systems allow the occupant to track and trigger entry to a building using an electric lock. Often seen on flats and apartments and business premises, they add an extra layer of protection to homeowners. They can also bring reassurance to those who are elderly or disabled.

Fire alarms
A different type of security but as important. Fire alarms are an integral part of keeping homeowners safe. It is essential that you not only fit an alarm, but that you also regularly check and maintain them.

Smoke is detected by a mechanism within the alarm and this triggers a sound. If you only have one safety device in your home this should be it.

Carbon Monoxide alarms
Carbon monoxide is odourless and colours and can be fatal if inhaled. It is caused by fuel such as gas and wood not burning properly and can come from a range of faulty household appliances such as boilers and log burners.

Like smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms detect the harmful substance and trigger an alarm, warning the occupants.

Sensor/Intruder alarms                                                                                                                       Considered the best deterrent for burglaries is the security alarm. Statistics show that you are less likely to be broken in to if you have one fitted – making it a worthwhile investment.

They work by using sensors and contacts to detect if someone is entering your property. Choosing the right one will depend on budget and personal preference.

Some devices are linked to a monitoring company or the police. Others link to apps and some rely on the noise alone to alert you or your neighbours.

There are a lot of models on the market so doing your research and seeking professional advice is beneficial.

Integrated security systems
Integrate systems combine multiple accessories in one device and offer reinforced protection for your home.

Again, there are many different makes and models available to consumers. SMART technology has made way for huge growth in this area. You can now get discreet’all-in-one devices’ that don’t need the arduous setup that was previously needed. But, fitting it right is important. Speaking to someone who is familiar with these systems is always beneficial.

Regardless of which system you use, protecting your house against theft and vandalism is a good investment. Choosing the right systems is step one, but next is getting an expert opinion on where and how to install it. Trying to do this yourself could result in the systems being set up wrong or even damaged in the process.

Steve Rudkin Electrical Contractors can offer guidance on which option is best for your home. Whatever your requirements, we will help provide a service that makes you feel safe and secure.

Contact a member of our team for more information.