2023 has been a milestone year in the world of home and commercial technology. Electric vehicles reached 9% of all new car sales. New energy efficiency regulations went into effect that essentially banned incandescent lightbulbs making LEDs a default choice for both businesses and homeowners. The power grid was put to the test as the effects of climate change put communities around the country on alert as temperatures reached record levels in the southwest. We covered all of this and more on this blog each month, and we hope you were paying attention because school is now in session!
It’s time to put your electrical knowledge to the test with our Second Annual Year in Review Quiz. From electrical vehicle service equipment and radiant floor heating installation, residential electrical repairs to emergency electrician services, PK Electric NYC has been your trusted partner throughout the year. Our team of certified electricians has been dedicated to providing top-notch commercial electrician services, ensuring your safety and satisfaction. Join us in reflecting on the significant electrical milestones of the past year and see how well you remember them.
We’ve got five questions covering some of our favorite blog posts from the past year. We added links so you can go back and cheat. Score yourself at the end of this quiz.
QUESTION ONE
From our May 2023 blog post on upgrades for retail and commercial spaces
Which of the following are signs that your retail or commercial space may need an electrical upgrade:
A – Discoloration around the electrical outlets
B – Breakers that trip on a regular basis
C – Outlets or switch plates that feel warm to the touch
D – All of the above
If you chose D, you’re correct. If your building is older than a Baby Boomer, strain from the exponential expansion of technology over the past few decades may have made your electrical system age before its time. Do a quick sweep of your space regularly.
QUESTION TWO
From out January 2023 blog post on energy-saving New Year’s resolutions
How to Smart Power Strips save you money?
A – They retail for less than standard power strips
B – They cut down phantom power drain
C – They send you notifications when you’re using too much electricity
D – All of the above
If you chose C, you’re right! A power strip with multiple chargers plugged into it will continue to drain phantom power long after the devices are fully charged. Smart power strips stop charging automatically, even if the device is plugged in. When not in use, the power strip can even shut itself down.
QUESTION THREE
From our April 2023 blog post on outlets
The National Electric Code says that in general areas, there should be an outlet every six horizontal feet of wall space. How far should they be space in kitchen?
A – Every three feet
B – Every four feet
C – Every 18 inches
D – Every two feet
If you chose B, you’re right! In kitchens, outlets should be spaced no more than four feet apart horizontally and 20 inches above countertops.
QUESTION FOUR
From our August 2023 blog post on smoke detectors
How many smoke detectors should you have in your home?
A – One on each floor – this includes basements and attics.
B – One in each bedroom – to wake you up in time for an early warning and quick escape.
C – Hallways and common rooms
D – All of the above
If you chose D, give yourself another point. You’re right! As a side note, if you’re looking to upgrade to a hardwired system, it’s important to note that hardwired smoked detectors are not a DIY solution. They require professional installation by a licensed and insured residential or commercial electrician.
QUESTION FIVE
From our October 2023 blog post on why lights flicker
Why do some LED bulbs flicker?
A – They’re not compatible with the dimmer that controls them
B – They’re defective
C – They’re not flickering, it’s just you.
D – You’ve got a poltergeist. Move now.
If you chose A, you’re right. Some LED bulbs don’t work with dimmers. That’s because dimmers work by rapidly interrupting the current flowing to the light. LED bulbs require less electricity. So, unless you have dimmable LED bulbs, if you’re using them with a dimmer they’re going to flicker.
SCORE TIME!
So, how did you do?
- If you got all five correct, congratulations! Quit your job and audition for Jeopardy!
- If you got four correct, celebrate! You’re a solid student.
- If you got three correct, relax. You passed.
- If you got only one or two correct, don’t beat yourself up. You can always read our archived blog posts here!
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