fbpx
logo PowerMaster Electric
Need An Electrician? (919) 557-4477

As homes age, so do their electrical systems. Older homes may have outdated electrical systems that are not equipped to handle modern appliances and electronics. As a result, homeowners may encounter common electrical problems that can be dangerous and costly if not addressed promptly.

In this article, we will discuss some of the most common electrical problems found in older homes and provide tips on how to fix them.

Overloaded Circuits

Overloaded circuits are a common problem in older homes. They occur when too many electrical devices are plugged into a single circuit, causing it to become overloaded. This can cause the circuit breaker to trip or the fuse to blow, which can be dangerous and may cause a fire.

To fix an overloaded circuit, try unplugging some devices or appliances to reduce the load on the circuit. If this does not work, you may need to add a new circuit or upgrade your electrical panel to handle the additional load.

Outdated Wiring

Many older homes were built with outdated wiring that is not equipped to handle modern electrical needs. Knob and tube wiring, for example, was commonly used in homes built before the 1950s and is now considered a fire hazard.

To fix outdated wiring, it is recommended to have a licensed electrician inspect your home's electrical system and recommend necessary upgrades. This may include replacing outdated wiring, upgrading your electrical panel, or installing additional outlets.

Flickering Lights

Flickering lights can be a nuisance and may be a sign of an underlying electrical problem. This could be caused by loose connections, a faulty switch, or a damaged fixture.

To fix flickering lights, start by checking the connections at the light fixture and switch. If the connections are loose, tighten them. If the problem persists, you may need to replace the switch or the fixture itself.

Outlets That Don't Work

Outlets that don't work can be frustrating and may limit your ability to use electrical devices in your home. This could be caused by a tripped circuit breaker, a faulty outlet, or damaged wiring.

To fix outlets that don't work, first check the circuit breaker to see if it has tripped. If it has not, try resetting the GFCI outlet, which can be found in the bathroom, kitchen, or garage. If the problem persists, it may be necessary to replace the outlet or have an electrician inspect the wiring.

Overheated Outlets

Overheated outlets can be a sign of an electrical problem and can be dangerous if not addressed promptly. This could be caused by a loose connection, damaged wiring, or an outdated outlet.

To fix overheated outlets, start by unplugging any devices or appliances from the outlet. Next, inspect the outlet for any signs of damage, such as discoloration or melting. If the outlet appears damaged or is hot to the touch, turn off power to the circuit and contact a licensed electrician.

Conclusion

In conclusion, common electrical problems can occur in older homes and can be dangerous if not addressed promptly. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can identify and fix these problems before they become a safety hazard. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult a licensed electrician if you are unsure how to address an electrical problem in your home.

At PowerMaster Electric Inc, we offer a wide range of electrical services to keep your home safe and up to code. Contact us today to schedule an electrical inspection or to learn more about our services.

Read more about our electrical services:

Electrical surges can occur at any time and can be caused by a variety of factors, including lightning strikes, power outages, and faulty wiring. These surges can cause damage to your electronics, appliances, and even your home's electrical system. That's why surge protectors are so important. In this article, we'll discuss the importance of surge protectors and how they can protect your home from electrical surges.

What is a Surge Protector?

A surge protector is a device that protects your electronics and appliances from electrical surges. It works by diverting excess voltage away from your devices and into the ground. Surge protectors come in a variety of types and sizes, from small power strips to whole-house surge protectors.

How Do Electrical Surges Happen?

Electrical surges can happen for a variety of reasons. Some common causes include:

What Damage Can Electrical Surges Cause?

Electrical surges can cause damage to your electronics and appliances, and in some cases, they can even cause fires. Some signs that you may have experienced an electrical surge include:

Types of Surge Protectors

There are two main types of surge protectors: point-of-use surge protectors and whole-house surge protectors.

Point-of-Use Surge Protectors

Point-of-use surge protectors are small devices that plug into your outlets and protect individual devices or appliances. These are the most common type of surge protectors and can be found at most hardware stores.

Whole-House Surge Protectors

Whole-house surge protectors are installed at your home's electrical panel and protect your entire home from surges. These devices are more expensive than point-of-use surge protectors, but they provide more comprehensive protection.

The Benefits of Surge Protectors

Investing in surge protectors for your home can provide a number of benefits, including:

How to Choose a Surge Protector

When choosing a surge protector, it's important to consider your needs and budget. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Conclusion

Investing in surge protectors for your home is an important step in protecting your electronics, appliances, and home's electrical system from damage caused by electrical surges.Whether you opt for a point-of-use surge protector or a whole-house surge protector, remember to regularly inspect and replace your surge protectors when necessary to maintain optimal protection. With the proper use of surge protectors, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home is protected from the damaging effects of electrical surges.

Outdoor security lighting can provide a sense of security for your home or business at night. It can also make your property look more elegant and upscale, giving you the ability to create the perfect outdoor ambiance for your needs. Adding extra security or making your property look more sociable is an excellent option. 

Do you require new outdoor security lighting for your residence? Do you want to add a touch of sophistication to your home? Continue reading to learn the tips for choosing the perfect outdoor security lighting for your needs.

Think About the Type of Lighting You Want

There are a few different types of outdoor security lighting available, so you need to think about which would suit your needs. One option is floodlights, which can provide a wide area of coverage. Another option is motion-activated lights, which can turn on when they detect movement.

Consider Your Budget

Are you looking for an affordable option or something with high-tech features? Again, depending on your needs, you can choose from options that range in price from around $50 to well over $1,000.

When choosing outdoor security lighting, it is essential to consider your budget. There are various products on the market, and the prices can vary significantly. Before you begin your search, you should establish a reasonable budget. This will help you narrow your options and find the most suitable product that suits your needs.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Outdoor security lighting is exposed to the elements, so it is important to choose a durable and weather-resistant product. Look for lights that are made from tough materials such as aluminum or stainless steel. Also, ensure the light you choose is rated for outdoor use and can withstand extreme temperatures, humidity, and precipitation.

When choosing outdoor security lighting, you will also want to consider the light's power source. Many different types of lights are available that run on various power sources. Some lights, for example, are battery-powered, others are powered by electricity, and others are solar-powered. When choosing an outdoor security light, you should consider the power options and decide which type is ideal for your requirements.

Look for a Product with a Warranty

When choosing outdoor security lighting, one of the most important factors to consider is whether or not the product comes with a warranty. A warranty will give you peace of mind in knowing that you will be covered if anything goes wrong with the product.

Conclusion

If you want extra security in your home, outdoor security lighting is a great option. Consider the above tips when choosing outdoor security lighting for your home. In this case, you'll be able to select a product that is reliable, durable, affordable, and, at the same time, suits your needs.

Are you planning to add a touch of security to your outdoor spaces? Consider investing in PowerMaster Electric. We offer you excellent services like security lighting installation. Our team of experts can help you choose the proper security lighting for your large or small needs. We have an extensive inventory of high-quality security lighting options so that you can find the perfect solution for your unique needs. Contact us now to speak with our experts and create a safe outdoor space!

The electrical panel is a box that contains all the circuits for your home. It is important for the safety of your home and should be checked regularly.

However, several well-known brands recalled electrical panels because they were safety hazards and dangerous to the integrity of the electrical circuits and the well-being of the inhabitants. 

It is generally a good idea to check the electrical panel in your home, especially if you are moving to a new house. If the house was built before 1990, there is a chance that the panel is outdated and should be replaced. This can help avoid any potential risks. Recalled electrical panels are a potential fire hazard in the home.

Recalled Electrical Panels to Avoid

Some electrical panels have been removed from the market because they have been linked to accidents and even deaths. If you have any of the following brands, you should replace them immediately and only let a qualified electrician do so.

Challenger

The Challenger panels were installed in people's homes for ten years, from the 1980s to the 1990s. However, they were recalled because they were not safe. If you are trying to identify a Challenger breaker, you should know that some of them might be labeled as GTE-Sylvania, just like the Zinsco panels.

Federal Pacific

Federal Pacific electric panels were recalled after it was discovered that the Stab-Lok breakers used in them were faulty and could cause fires. Around 25 percent of the breakers did not trip, which meant they could not prevent overheating or other electrical errors. Federal Pacific electrical panels can be identified by certain marks, such as red strips across the breakers or FPE and Stab-Lok labels.

Zinsco

One of the many hazards associated with Zinsco electrical panels is their design flaw leading to fire hazards and electrical shocks. One electrician suffered from severe burns because of this flaw. 

Zinsco electrical panels can be identified by their thinner, colorful breakers. They usually have the logo inscribed, and you should look for either Zinsco or Sylvania. If you have any of these, you ought to replace them as soon as possible.

The Dangers of Recalled Electrical Panels

Electrical panels are designed with safety in mind to prevent overheating or fires. They do this by not allowing too much power in one area of the electrical circuit. However, the panels that were recalled had various issues that prevented them from working correctly. If you delay replacing these brands, you face the following risks:

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, if you have a recalled electric panel in your home, it's crucial to replace it as soon as possible. This is because recalled electric panels can pose a serious fire hazard. 

You can replace your recalled electric panel in a few different ways. You can either do it yourself or hire a professional. If you do it yourself, make sure to follow the instructions carefully. If you hire a professional, make sure to hire a licensed electrician.


Do you need electrical subpanels? Rely on PowerMaster Electric. We have been supplying Raleigh and the surrounding area with the best electrical contractors who are highly skilled and experienced. Call us today!

The commercial electrical subpanel is integral to your business's electrical system. It is responsible for distributing power to all your business's different electrical circuits. It may be time for an upgrade, depending on the age and condition of your current panel. Over time, the subpanel can become worn out and needs to be replaced.

Here are some signs that you should replace your commercial electrical subpanels:

Your Business Is Growing, and You Need More Power

If your business is expanding and you need more power than your current electrical panel can provide, then it may be time to upgrade to a new one. A commercial electrician can help you determine the size and type of panel best suits your needs.

Your Current Panel Is Outdated

If your commercial electrical panel is over 20 years old, it may be time to replace it. Technology has taken a long path in the past few decades, and your electrical system should keep up with the times.

Your Current Panel Is Not Adequate for Your Needs

If your business has grown and your current electrical subpanels can't handle the increased demand, it's time to replace it. Adding additional circuits to your existing panel is not recommended and can be dangerous.

You’re Constantly Blowing Fuses or Tripping Breakers

If you constantly have to reset breakers or replace fuses, that's a sign that your current panel is inadequate for your needs. This can be begun by several factors, including outdated wiring or overloaded circuits.

You Witness Flickering or Dimming Lights

This can signify a loose connection in the subpanel. Over time, these connections can become corroded and cause problems.

You Notice Some Burning Smell

If you smell burning from the sub panel, it's a sign of an electrical problem. This could be a fire hazard, so it's essential to check it out immediately.

You Can See Discoloration

If the sub-panel is discolored, it's a sign of overheating. This can be caused by various things, such as loose connections or an overloaded circuit.

The Panel Is Making Strange Noises

If your electrical panel is making strange noises, such as buzzing or humming, it's a sign that there could be a problem. It's best to inspect it with a commercial electrician to determine the cause of the noise and see if the panel needs to be replaced.

Your Panel Is Damaged

If your panel is damaged, it's time to replace it. Damaged electrical subpanels can pose a serious fire hazard.

The Panel Is Hot to the Touch

If your electrical panel is hot to the touch, it's a sign that there is excessive heat build-up. This can be caused by various things, such as overloaded circuits or faulty wiring. Either way, it's a serious issue that requires to be addressed by a professional.

If you recognize these signs, replacing your commercial electrical subpanels is best. A new subpanel will help keep your business's electrical system running smoothly and prevent future power outages.

Conclusion

It is essential to know when to replace the commercial electrical subpanel to keep your business running smoothly. Replacing the subpanel can be expensive, so it is vital to ensure it is necessary. Sometimes, it may be possible to repair the existing subpanel instead of replacing it. However, if the subpanel is damaged beyond repair, it is necessary to replace it to maintain a safe and functional business.


PowerMaster Electric is the best choice for Raleigh and surrounding electrical contractors. Our highly skilled and experienced team is dedicated to providing the best possible electrical subpanel installation, maintenance, and repair to our customers. If you need any electrical work done, don't hesitate to contact us. We'll be happy to help you out.

Like most homeowners, you probably don't think about your electrical panel very often. But this vital component of your home's electrical system should be on your radar, as it can suffer damage over time. Here are some signs that your electrical panel may be damaged and need repair or replacement.

1. Flickering or Dimming Lights

One of the first signs of electrical panel damage is flickering or dimming lights. This can happen if the panel is overloaded or has a loose connection. If you notice this happening, having an electrician check it out as soon as possible is crucial.

2. Discoloration or Burning around the Panel

Another sign that your electrical panel may be damaged is discoloration or burning around the panel. This is usually a sign of overheating caused by several factors, including loose connections or overloaded circuits. If you see this, it's important to have a professional check it out to determine the cause and make the necessary repairs.

3. Sparking or Arcing

Sparks or arcs from your electrical panel are another sign of something wrong. This can be caused by several things, including loose wires or a bad breaker.

4. Panel Is Hot to the Touch

If your electrical panel is hot to the touch, this is a sign that it's overloaded and needs to be repaired or replaced. This serious issue should be addressed by a professional as soon as possible.

5. Breaker Trips Frequently

If your breaker trips frequently, this is a sign that your electrical panel is overloaded. This can be caused by several things, including too many devices plugged into the same circuit.

Should the Electrical Panels in Your Home Be Replaced or Repaired?

Your electrical panel is one of the most important parts of your home’s electrical system. It is responsible for distributing power to all of the circuits in your home, and it is what keeps your family safe from electrical hazards.

There are two main options for repairing or replacing your electrical panel: repair or replace. Here are some things to consider when making your decision:

Option 1: Repair

If your electrical panel is not working properly, it may be possible to have it repaired by a qualified electrician. This is usually the less expensive option, and it can be a good choice if your panel is not too old and is in otherwise good condition.

However, there are some risks associated with repairing an electrical panel. If the panel is not repaired properly, it could pose a serious safety hazard to your family. 

Additionally, it may not work properly, resulting in electrical problems in your home.

Option 2: Replace

If your electrical panel is old or in poor condition, it may be better to replace it altogether. This is usually the more expensive option, but it will provide a new, safe electrical panel that meets all current safety standards.

Replacing your electrical panel is a big job, and a qualified electrician should only do it. However, if you have an older home, replacing your panel is probably a good idea to ensure that your family is safe from electrical hazards.

Conclusion

If your electrical panel is outdated or not functioning properly, it is best to have it replaced or repaired by a licensed electrician. An electrical panel controls the flow of electricity throughout your home, so it is important to ensure that it is in good working condition. If you are not comfortable working with electricity, it is best to leave this task to a professional.


Are you looking for an electrician to repair or replace your electrical panels? PowerMaster Electric got you covered. We have been supplying Raleigh and the surrounding areas with the best electrical contractors, ensuring safety in your homes with their skills and experience. Get in touch with us today!

As time goes by, more and more companies are making an effort to upgrade their electrical wiring. After all, power needs specific requirements to surpass the current electrical system the business has, such as:

No worries, though, because installing a sub-panel can help a business overcome these issues. This guide will help business owners understand the basics of installing an electrical sub-panel, from choosing the right one to installing it correctly.

What is an Electrical Sub-Panel?

An electrical sub-panel is a smaller panel that distributes electricity to a specific part of a building. It is usually installed in a mechanical room, utility room, or garage. The sub-panel contains its circuit breaker, which helps to protect the main electrical panel from overloads.

Why Would a Business Need a Sub-Panel?

There are a few reasons a business might need a sub-panel. One reason is if the business has a lot of electrical equipment that requires its circuit breaker. 

In addition, the business can have a lot of power demands in a specific building area. For example, if the business has a large kitchen with many appliances, it might need a sub-panel to distribute power to that area.

What is the Right Size Sub-Panel for a Business?

The right size sub-panel for a business depends on the amount of electrical equipment the business has and the number of power demands in the specific area of the building. A business should always consult a licensed electrician to determine the right size sub-panel for its needs.

What Is the Price to Install a Sub-Panel?

The cost of installing a sub-panel varies depending on the size of the sub-panel, the amount of electrical equipment the business has, and the location of the sub-panel. A business should consult with a licensed electrician to get an accurate estimate for the cost of installing a sub-panel.

Things to Consider When Installing an Electrical Sub-Panel

Before going to your local technician for sub-panel installation, there are a few things you should take into account.

1. Size of the Electrical Sub-Panel

This is the most crucial factor to consider when installing an electrical sub-panel. The size of the sub-panel will determine how much equipment you can connect to it. Consult with your technician to ensure you are purchasing the right size sub-panel.

2. Location of the Electrical Sub-Panel

The location of the sub-panel is also important. You will want to make sure the sub-panel is in an easily accessible area. This will make it easier for your technician to install it and for you to access it in the future.

3. Electrical Requirements

Before installing a sub-panel, consult your technician to ensure you have the proper electrical requirements. Not all businesses will need a sub-panel, so be sure to ask your technician if it is necessary for your business.

Final Thoughts

An electrical sub-panel is a great way to improve the organization and safety of your home's electrical system. This guide has outlined the basic steps for installing a sub-panel so that you can get started on your project. By installing one, you can easily and efficiently manage the power needs of your various devices and appliances. PowerMaster Electric is your leading supplier of affordable and reliable electrical sub-panels for your commercial space in Raleigh and surrounding areas. Get in touch with us today!

There are many reasons why you might need to call an electrician. Maybe you're experiencing electrical problems in your home or business, or perhaps you're doing some renovations and need to install new electrical wiring. Whatever the reason, it's essential to know when to call a professional.

If you're unsure whether or not you need to call an electrician, here are a few signs to look out for:

1. Flickering Lights

Flickering lights are one of the most common signs you need to call an electrician. This usually indicates loose wiring, faulty lightbulbs, a problem with your electrical panel, or an overloaded circuit breaker, and it can be a fire hazard. If you notice your lights flickering, turn off the power to that circuit and call an electrician.

2. Burning Smells

If you smell burning, it could be a sign of an electrical fire. This is a very serious situation that requires the immediate attention of a professional.

3. Shock or Tingling

If you feel a shock or tingling when you touch an electrical appliance or switch, it's a sign that there is live electricity present. This is extremely dangerous and should be addressed immediately by an electrician.

4. Outlets Not Working

If you have outlets that are not working, this could be a sign of a larger electrical problem. It's best to have an electrician take a look to ensure that everything is safe and up to code.

5. Old or Damaged Wiring

If your home has old or damaged wiring, it's best to call an electrician to replace it. This is a safety hazard and can cause fires.

6. Frequent Circuit Breaks

If you find yourself resetting your circuit breaker frequently, this is a sign that you have an electrical problem. It's best to have an electrician take a look to determine the cause of the problem.

7. Scorched or Blackened Outlets and Fixtures

If you notice that any of your outlets or fixtures are scorched or blackened, this is a sign that you need to call an electrician immediately. This can be caused by a number of issues, including loose wires, overloaded circuits, or a problem with your electrical panel.

8. Frequent Power Outages

If you're experiencing frequent power outages, it's a good idea to call an electrician. They can help determine if the problem is with your home's electrical system or with the power grid.

9. Strange Noises

If you hear strange noises coming from your electrical system, this is definitely a sign that something is wrong. It could be a loose wire or a faulty switch. Either way, it's best to have it checked out by a professional.

Conclusion

Don't try to tackle these electrical problems on your own. Not only is it dangerous, but you could also do more harm than good. Contact a licensed electrician to come and take a look at your electrical system and make any necessary repairs. 
As your local electrician in Fuquay-Varina, NC, PowerMaster Electric is here to help with all your electrical needs. Whether you need a simple repair or a brand-new installation, our team of certified professionals is up for the task. No job is too big or small for our team, so don’t hesitate to give us a call today.

We are all guilty of taking electricity for granted. Most of the time, we use power carelessly at home and at work, as is to be expected. However, occasionally a light will not turn on or a laptop will not charge despite being plugged in. Thankfully, resetting a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlet usually solves the problem.

However, as with anything electrical, the GFCI can malfunction, too.

GFCI-protected electrical outlets trip when a short or ground fault is detected. Ground fault interrupters are required by the National Electrical Code in sites prone to shorting, such as kitchens and toilets. They are reliable, but they are not without flaws.

Read on to discover five GFCI outlet reset procedures to know today.

Determine the Root of the Problem

The most difficult to assess is if a GFCI outlet won't reset is a fault with the outlet or the circuit. To find out why the outlet isn't working, contact a licensed electrician. It could be that particular channel or a broader issue.

Look around for any other damaged or tripped things. Examine the neighboring sockets and lights. Unplug gadgets from each GFCI outlet and look for the reset button.

Check the other outlets in the house as a precaution. You can use a voltage tester to see if electricity is flowing via any outlets. If everything else works, the problem is with a single outlet; if other outlets or lights do not work, the issue could be with the circuit.

Look For Any Tripped Circuits

Check the circuit breakers if additional outlets or lights are not working. These components can be found in the main electrical panel as well as any subpanels. The electrical panel is often positioned near the point where electricity enters the home. These are common in garages, basements, and laundry rooms.

The circuit breakers are visible after the panel is opened. If any of them are out of order, that means they've been tripped. Try to reset the breaker. If this is the case, and it continues, you may have an overloading problem, which occurs when the circuit's capacity is insufficient for the load.

Evaluate the Situation Carefully

There could be a current leak if the GFCI trips regularly after resetting the circuit breaker. Because this is risky, seek the advice of an electrician. 

Perhaps you may not have pressed the "reset" button hard enough. If the GFCI fails again, it could be faulty. When you plug something in and turn it on, the "reset" button may fall out, indicating that the GFCI is not correctly connected.

Meanwhile, in some situations, the release of the "reset" button indicates a GFCI ground fault.

If the "reset" button is pressed yet the gadgets or appliances continue to run, the line and load have most likely been reversed. Remember, circuit breakers fail infrequently.

Anticipate Connection Problems

GFCI outlets may not reset due to faulty wiring or connections. Pulling on each wire separately with a wire connector can reveal a faulty connection. If you find one, have it repaired by an electrician. The problem's scope is unknown.

Check the surrounding outlets if there are no loose connections in the connector box. Begin with Step 1's failures. With the main circuit breaker switched off, look for any unsecured connections. Terminal screws, stab-in connections, and wire connectors are examples of commonly problematic connections.

Get Assistance from a Professional

As previously indicated, seek assistance if the problem is more complicated than a tripped GFCI outlet or circuit. Even experienced do-it-yourselfers may be intimidated by the complexity. DIY electrical work is quite dangerous. Contact a licensed electrician to avoid property damage and injury.

Conclusion

Electrical upgrades can boost the value and visual appeal of any property. Electrical system upgrades can transform a home or business. If you hire an electrician to enhance your home and decide to change your electrical system, make sure the professional has the appropriate knowledge and experience.
Are you experiencing problems with your GFCI power outlet? PowerMaster Electric is here to address your electrical issues and give you the solutions you need. Call us today!

Ceiling fans are great because they provide a refreshing breeze that keeps our rooms comfortable, and they also contribute great-looking decorative additions to the spaces where we live. But one problem we have with ceiling fans is that they collect dust and are difficult to reach on cleaning day. Especially in the kitchen because cleaning a greasy ceiling fan is a huge challenge.

Having dirt and grime on ceiling fans is not just a matter of how things look. This situation can lead to decreased efficiency, unwanted noise can even damage the motor. If there are people in your house who have allergies or respiratory illnesses, the accumulation of dust can make things even worse for them.

It's a good thing that PowerMaster in Fuquay-Varina has an easy and 100% effective method for cleaning your ceiling fans and getting rid of the dust and dirt that accumulates on them. Follow these suggestions and you can have completely clean ceiling fans very quickly and with very little hassle. Additionally, the next time you have your friends over, you won't be worrying the whole night that they will look up and see your dirty ceiling fans.

MOST USEFUL CLEANING PROCEDURES FOR CEILING FANS

Do you have a ceiling fan that seems to collect dust and grime very quickly? Don't worry, you are not alone. The reason that fans often are coated with a heavy layer of dust and dirt is that they are located high in the room. A lot of people wonder what is worse - having the dust remain in the air for us to breathe when you turn on your fan or dust and grime falling off of the fan from the ceiling when you clean it. This is a - “six one way, half a dozen the other” situation.

The big challenge with cleaning ceiling fan blades is to keep dust from flying onto all the other surfaces underneath them. Things such as kitchen grease, vaulted ceilings, and blade types that are non-traditional, present us with other challenges as well. 

When it comes to cleaning ceiling fans, these are some of our favorite pointers:

CLEANING BASICS FOR CEILING FANS

Obviously, one of the first things you need to remember is to turn off the ceiling fan before you start cleaning it in any way. Wait until the fan completely stops, then follow these steps to clean a normal, traditional ceiling fan:

If there is a lot of dust accumulated on your fan blades and you want to avoid a dust shower in your room while cleaning, try this method. We call it the “pillowcase method”. Cover the fan blades with a clean pillowcase and slide the case down the blade, gathering the dust inside the pillowcase. This approach will allow you to remove all the dust but still keep it contained inside the pillowcase. This way you don't need to worry about introducing this dust back into the room. When you're done cleaning the fan you can take the pillow outside and turn it inside-out. Then you can shake the clumps of dust off the pillowcase before you put it into your washing machine.

HOW TO CLEAN A CEILING FAN THAT IS GREASY

Ceiling fans that are in the kitchen seem to accumulate a lot of greases as well as dust. The combination of the dust and the grease on the blade fans makes a sticky residue that is a lot like adhesive. This can be especially difficult to remove from your fan. Here is an effective method to get this greasy mess off your ceiling fan:

CLEANING NON-TRADITIONAL FAN BLADES

Frequently we run into fan blades that are textured or covered in fabric. If this is your situation, these blades may need a little extra care to keep the dust and the dirt from accumulating on them. We found that the best approach to cleaning these types of fan blades is to use a handheld vacuum to remove the dirt and dust from the surface of these blades. Then we recommend you follow up with a microfiber cloth that has been moistened with water to remove the stubborn residue that the vacuum couldn't remove.

DO YOU NEED A CEILING FAN REPAIR OR REPLACED?

Maybe your problem is not so much about dirty blades but more about a ceiling fan that is not working properly. PowerMaster in Fuquay-Varina is always ready to help you with expert repairs or replacements of your ceiling fans. If it is time for your ceiling fan to get that expert attention that is outside of normal cleaning, call PowerMaster in Fuquay-Varina to make an appointment.