Don’t overlook the importance of shed and garage security

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Security advice for homeowners in Leeds

Whether you’re buying the kids new bikes for Christmas or already use your shed or garage to store valuable cycles and equipment, it’s really important to ensure that they are adequately protected from the risk of theft.

Although many homeowners go to great lengths to ensure that their home is safe and secure, sheds and garages are often left unsecured putting the contents at risk of theft. Sadly burglars are all to aware that sheds and garages are often used to store valuable items such as bikes, power tools and golf clubs, making outside storage areas a prime target.

Security systems installed by Dalec

Protecting a shed or garage is, in fact, relatively simple. Here at Dalec we are specialists in all aspects of home security and we are happy to give advice on the best ways to protect the outside storage areas of your home. It may be possible, for example, to incorporate your garage into your existing storage system and if you currently don’t have a system, we’re happy to give advice on this too.

Security lighting is another highly effective way to help protect your shed or garage. A wide range of security lighting systems are available, from simple dusk until dawn lights, through to sensor lights and lighting which can be integrated into a security system.

Contact Dalec for advice

If you would like to find out more, or to obtain a free, no-obligation quote, why not get in touch with us today?

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Electrical services designed to keep your home or business running smoothly

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As regular readers of our blog will know, we’re passionate about the importance of electrical safety. Whether you need a general rewire or electrical testing, the team here at Dalec are highly experienced and qualified in all aspects of electrical services.

Our services are designed to keep your business running smoothly and your home a safe and secure place to be. Our expertise covers installations of all shapes and sizes, from a new plug socket through to a complete commercial new build.

Domestic electrical services in Leeds

The importance of safe and reliable electrics in the home should never be underestimated and our team of professional engineers work with our domestic customers to provide high-quality, affordable services, regardless of the size of the job.

Electrical services for businesses in Leeds

Our team operate throughout Leeds and West Yorkshire, providing reliable, qualified electrical services for a huge range of different businesses. We have many years of experience on working on diverse projects such as supermarket refurbishments, office refurbishments and electrical installations in schools and colleges.

Contact Dalec for advice

Whether you’d like to find out more about our electrical services or to arrange a free, no-obligation quote, we’d be delighted to help. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch by calling Dalec on 01535 606 006.

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Make sure your home is secure this Christmas

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Home security advice for customers in Leeds

Many people go away over the Christmas holidays and whether you’re planning on visiting family for a couple of days, or are lucky enough to be jetting off to somewhere lovely and warm, don’t forget to make sure your home will be safe and secure whilst you’re away.

Home security is, of course, vital throughout the year but unfortunately the Christmas holidays often see a spike in burglaries as intruders take advantage of the fact that many homes will be left unattended. A reliable security alarm is one of the best ways to keep your home safe so if you have an alarm, make sure you use it! There are lots of simple steps you can take too, such as using timer switches to switch lamps on and off automatically and asking a neighbour to make sure your post isn’t left where it can be seen on the doormat.

Domestic electrical services from Dalec

Here at Dalec we provide a wide range of security services for residential customers and whether you’re considering installing a new alarm system, or would like to obtain a quote for security lighting, we’d be delighted to help.

Contact Dalec on 01535 606 006

Our quotes are always free and can be arranged without obligation – to find out more or to book an appointment, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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Our advice on using electric blankets safely

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Electrical safety advice in Leeds

As the cold winter weather arrives, many of us think about using an electric blanket. However, whilst electric blankets are a great way to ensure you stay warm and toasty and night-time, it’s essential that they are maintained and cared for properly if they are to be safe.

It’s worrying to think that electric blankets can pose a real fire risk – they’re responsible for over 5000 house fires every year – and with this in mind we thought we’d offer some on advice on how to use them safely.

Electric blanket warning signs

Whether you use your electric blanket throughout the year, or only during the winter, it’s important to check it regularly for wear and tear. The danger signs include:

  • Scorch marks
  • Exposed wiring or heating elements
  • Damp patches
  • Frayed fabric
  • Soiled areas
  • Damaged or missing tapes
  • Worn or damaged cable

If your electric blanket is showing any of the above, or is old or damaged in any way, it’s essential that you have it checked before you use it.

If in doubt, buy a new blanket

If you’re concerned about the age, condition or safety of your electric blanket the easiest option is to buy a new one. Buying a new blanket is often cheaper than having an old or damaged one repaired and when you take into account the safety of your family and home, this seems like a small price to pay.

Regardless of how frequently you use your electric blanket it should be replaced at least every ten years. Never, ever buy a second hand electric blanket and make sure the one you choose is from a reputable supplier and displays a safety certification symbol.

Safe electric blanket storage

Electric blankets should be stored carefully if they are to be safe. Never fold an electric blanket: if you need to store yours in a box or drawer etc. it’s much better to roll it up or, even better, store it flat on a spare bed.

Contact Dalec by calling 01535 606 006

Electric blankets should always be tested by a qualified electrician and if you have any safety concerns over yours, we’d be happy to help. Our Leeds electricians operate throughout West Yorkshire so please don’t hesitate to get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote.

 

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Is your business safe, secure and protected?

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Security solutions for businesses in Leeds

Security is, of course, vital for any business but if your business premises are open to customers, it’s very difficult to keep your business secure when your doors are always open.

The answer is that although it’s impossible to keep a shop or open business premises 100% secure, there are a number of highly effective steps you can take to improve security.

Security systems designed to meet your requirements

Panic buttons are a simple, cost-effective solution and having them fitted in various locations around your business premises will provide you with peace of mind and the ability to contact the police quickly and discreetly.

One of the most effective steps you can take is to install a working CCTV system. Although a wide range of dummy or decoy CCTV cameras are available, for commercial business owners there really is no substitute for the real thing. A functioning CCTV system will record a crime as the events unfold, helping the police to identify the culprit whilst also providing valuable evidence for your insurance company. Here at Dalec we are specialists in installing a wide range of CCTV systems, from low-cost basic systems, through to state of the art cameras, designed to record clear images, even when it’s dark.

Unfortunately darkness often proves to be the burglar’s friend and for people working in retail premises, opening up or locking up at night can prove to be a worrying experience. Installing emergency security lighting on the outside of your premises will mean that the exterior of your property is illuminated by bright light when a motion is detected, alerting you to the potential threat whilst deterring a burglar from entering.

Door entry systems are the ideal solution for any business which doesn’t receive many visitors who which operates on an appointment lonely basis. Installing a door entry system will allow you to screen visitors as their access can only be granted by a member of staff. Combined intercom and camera systems are very popular as they allow members of staff to see and communicate with visitors before allowing them entry.

Business and commercial security systems installed by Dalec

If you would like advice on any aspect of protecting your business, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Dalec to arrange for a free, no-obligation quote. We work with businesses of all shapes and sizes across Leeds and are happy to visit you at a time to suit you. Why not get in touch to find out more?

 

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The future is bright – the future is LED

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Energy saving advice for homeowners in Leeds

Despite the fact that homeowners in the UK could save a staggering £1.4 billion on their electricity bills each year by replacing traditional incandescent and halogen bulbs with energy-saving LEDs, the UK is trailing behind other European nations. This £1.4 billion could save the average household around £50 per year on their energy bills.

Could you save money on your lighting bills?

So why are so many UK householders failing to take advantage of the LED revolution? One reason could be the confusion that often surrounds the labelling on low-energy light bulbs, making it difficult to determine the equivalent wattage. However, clearer labelling is being slowly but surely introduced.

Another issue could be the higher cost of buying LED bulbs. However, when you consider that not only do LEDs last much, much longer than other types of bulb and are far cheaper to run, the higher price should be seen as a worthwhile investment.

Lighting installations in Leeds

If you would like advice on changing the light fittings in your home or on lighting in general, we’d be happy to help. Our services are available to home and business owners throughout Leeds so why not get in touch today to arrange a free, no-obligation quote?

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Electrical installation services for residential and business customers in Leeds

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Experienced electricians in Leeds

Here at Dalec we have many years of experience in all aspects of electrical installations, from simple electrical safety checks through to complete re-wiring projects and major projects such as security system installations.

Electrical services for businesses of all shapes and sizes

Our services for businesses in Leeds are designed to help you ensure your organisation continues to run smoothly with the minimum of downtime and fuss. We know that for business owners time means money and as such we are committed to providing a cost-effective, efficient service. Whether you are planning a complete refurbishment or are about to embark on a new-build project, we’d be delighted to help.

Dalec’s electrical services for businesses cover all aspects of electrical installations, including the design and installation of fire or security systems, general repairs and maintenance plus electrical safety checks and rewiring.

Affordable, reliable domestic electrical services

We know that our domestic customers really appreciate an affordable, reliable electrical service. Whether you’re local for a qualified local electrician in Leeds with the expertise to carry out a major project, or simply need to have a new appliance installed, we can help. Our electrical services are available at a time to suit you and our no-obligations quotes are always free.

Contact Dalec today

To find out more, why not get in touch with Dalec by calling 01535 606 006?

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Switching on to bathroom lighting safety

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Bathroom lighting installations in Leeds

Following on from our recent post on garden lighting and on the subject of the dangers of combining water and electricity, we thought we’d offer some advice on bathroom lighting.

Water and electricity simply don’t mix under any circumstances and with this in mind, when selecting lighting for a bathroom it’s very important that you choose lights which have been especially designed to cope with a high moisture environment.

Create the right mood with bathroom lighting

Bathroom lighting can be used to great effect to create the right mood but remember that if the lighting is too bright your bathroom will seem cold, but if there’s not enough light you’ll find it difficult to see what you’re doing! The best way to avoid extremes of lighting is opt for a layered approach to lighting by installing spotlights over the shower and bath, with wall lighting and task lighting around the mirror to create a warm, relaxing ambience.

A huge variety of different types of bathroom lighting is available these days; from LED spotlights designed to be installed in flooring, through to spotlights and stylish wall lights. It’s also possible to create a range of lighting moods by fitting all the lights to different switches.

Be safe – seek the advice of a professional

There are regulations covering the safe installation of lighting in bathrooms and it’s important that any sources of electricity are situated out of reach of sources of water. When it comes to installing bathroom lighting, we recommend using the services of a certified electrical installer such as Dalec and if you would like further advice or to obtain a free, no-obligation quote, we’d be delighted to help.

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Shining a spotlight on kitchen lighting

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Our advice on the options for kitchen lighting

Planning a new kitchen can seem like a daunting task, especially if it’s something you decide to take on yourself. With so much to think about kitchen lighting is often overlooked by the novice kitchen planner but get the lighting right and it can make all the difference to the end result.

The range of kitchen lighting used to be pretty limited and there’s no doubt that you’ll be glad to hear that the days of unattractive fluorescent tube lighting are over. A huge choice of kitchen lighting is now available and this variety makes it much easier to get it right.

Create lighting zones in the kitchen

Thinking of kitchen lighting in ‘layers’ can be very helpful – this means is that you plan your lighting in terms of ‘zones.’ Lighting should be planned according to how you’re going to use it with different lighting for when you’re working (cooking), dining, relaxing or feature lighting. Thanks to the wide choice of options for kitchen lighting it’s now possible to light a kitchen successfully without having to rely on ceiling lighting alone. From spotlights and down lighters, through to lighting strips and uplighters, a huge range of lighting is available, designed to be placed, under, over or on top of kitchen units.

Don’t forget kitchen task lighting

One of the most important types of lighting to get right is task lighting. This is the light you’ll need when working i.e. cooking and preparing food. It goes without saying that adequate lighting is required when using sharp knives, for example, or when using the hob or sink. The best option here is under mounted lighting but make sure you choose recessed or semi-recessed fittings as exposed lighting can trap dirt and grease.

Open-plan kitchens need a range of lighting options

If you’re planning an open-plan kitchen which includes an area for dining and relaxing, you’ll need different forms of lighting. Alongside task and spotlights, for example, you could also consider an overhead pendant light above the dining table, with a floor or wall lamps next to any comfy seating areas.

Contact Dalec – electricians in Leeds

Dalec are specialists in all aspects of electrical installations and if you would like further advice or a free, no-obligation quote please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our electrical services are available throughout Leeds and our quotes can be arranged at a time to suit you. Why not contact us to find out more?

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Candles present a fire risk so make sure you use them safely!

Fire safety prevention advice from electricians in Leeds

At this time of year we all enjoy spending time sitting outdoors on long summer evenings. There’s nothing quite like the flicker of candles to create a cosy, intimate atmosphere but because candles are responsible for increasing numbers of house fires, it’s very important to know how to use them safely.

Provided you use a specially designed candle holder with a stable base, a burning candle should be safe provided it isn’t place near curtains, parasols or other fabrics. You should always place a candle holder on a heat resistant surface and ensure that burning candles are kept well out of reach of children and pets. Last and by no means least, it goes without saying that candles should never be left unattended whilst burning.

Contact Dalec for further advice and information

Here at Dalec we provide a wide range of electrical installation services for residential customers in Leeds and throughout West Yorkshire. Our services cover the installation of smoke alarms and fire protection systems so if you would like to find out more, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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