The Electrical Blog

When poor power quality creates problems, the effects can be nothing short of disastrous -- especially for small businesses. Voltage fluctuations and power failures can cause shutdowns, data loss, equipment damage, and ultimately valuable time and money. Curious about how you can protect your business or home? Keep reading for some common Q&A’s about power quality.

Excellent power quality helps your business run smoothly and efficiently.

Q: What is power quality?
A: Essentially, power quality is how well the available electrical power is distributed to consumer devices and how well that power functions.  Great power quality allows the systems to function at their intended capacity. Generally, you only notice power quality when something goes wrong.

Q: What causes poor power quality?
A: Although there are a variety of factors that can contribute to poor power quality, a common cause is something called “harmonics”. “Harmonics are electrical signals at multiples of the power line frequency, which occur when there are many personal computers, adjustable speed drives, and other equipment that draws current in short pulses,” Berwick Electric Co. (BEC) Power Quality Manager Tim Prime explained. “While harmonics don’t directly cause computer problems, they do affect the power distribution system.” Common symptoms of diminished power quality include voltage fluctuation and devices that aren’t operating at maximum capacity.

Q: What is the best way to solve power quality problems?
A: Although power quality issues are frustrating, they are solvable. To help remedy tough power quality issues, BEC’s professionals perform on-site surveys of existing electrical installations, including system and equipment grounding, load capacity evaluation, and determination of the presence of harmonics.

“Proper grounding, dedicated circuits, and power conditioning can solve difficult power quality issues,” Tim said. “In-depth understanding of technical factors and specialized monitoring equipment allow BEC to detect and recommend solutions to each customer’s power quality problem.
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If you think your business or home could use a power quality tune-up, we encourage you to contact Berwick Electric Co. at 719.632.7683 or visit us online to request  service.

A lot goes on “behind the scenes” at a hospital. Although the coordination of various hospital workers, doctors, nurses, patients and schedules is pretty obvious, you might not always notice the complex, electrical processes that sustain the hospital itself. Keep reading below to learn more about BEC’s opportunity to work in this exciting area.

Raising the Roof: Electrical Upgrades

A BEC electrician works on the boiler project at MH.

When it comes to wiring a hospital, BEC’s electricians can compete with the best. In one current project, BEC electricians are working to upgrade the electrical system at Memorial Hospital in Colorado Springs, Colo. One aspect of the upgrades includes switching out two of the hospital’s massive boilers. “In order to replace the boilers, we actually have to remove part of the roof from the building,” Project Foreman John Luther explained. “This makes for a very interesting day on the job.”

In addition to unique building challenges, project success also requires detailed coordination with other trades. “To me, everything we do is interesting,” John said. “It’s always a challenge to efficiently coordinate with the other trades on the job. We have foremen meetings almost daily, and we use CAD drawings and software like Bluebeam to help things run smoothly. Our crew also uses iPads to work out details with the other crews on a job.” Working well with the other trades on a job is a must, and BEC makes every effort to stay up-to-date on the latest industry standards.

BEC Electrician Ray Rincon works on the Air Handler Project at MH.

While working to upgrade the hospital’s boilers, BEC’s team is also involved in a multi-phase project to replace the air handler units. “These air handlers facilitate all of the air changes for the north part of the hospital,” BEC Electrician Ray Rincon explained. “It’s a great, challenging project.”

Containing Construction

Working on electrical upgrades is only one aspect of BEC’s current work at Memorial Hospital; the ambitious company is also completing electrical wiring for the construction of a new pharmacy inside of the hospital.

“Working on a construction project inside of an operating hospital is a challenge. You really have to take extra measures to ensure that germs and construction particles aren’t spread throughout the hospital,” John explained. “One way we accomplish this is by creating a negative air pressure inside of the construction area. This keeps dust and other particles contained.” Innovative problem solving is a staple of project success.

There truly never is a dull moment on the job at Memorial Hospital. BEC’s electricians genuinely enjoy the challenge of strategically implementing state-of-the-art upgrades. To learn more about BEC’s construction capabilities, click here.

Planning a home renovation or remodel can be an exciting time. It’s your opportunity to implement the changes that will make your home into your “dream home.” But before you can make your dream a reality, it’s important to make solid plans. To help your planning process run smoothly, here are three electrical considerations to keep in mind.

Here are some electrical tips to help your home remodel run smoothly.

1. Plan your budget accurately. Despite your best intentions, it’s easy for a home renovation budget to spin quickly out of control. “Before beginning a home renovation project, take the time to research and make a very detailed budget,” Berwick Electric's Service Manager said. “Give yourself some wiggle room with your budget, as it’s common to run into unexpected costs,” he added. “Make sure that your budget is something that you can realistically support.”

2. Make sure that your electrical panel will accommodate extra breakers. Depending on the size of your renovation or addition, you may need to add breakers to your existing panel board. “Before starting a home remodel project, you want to make sure that your electrical panel is up to code, and that it has the capacity for extra breakers and is capable of handling the additional load to be added,” he explained. “Some older panel boards, such as FPE and Pushmatic, aren’t capable of being code compliant. The current code mandates that panel boards accommodate arc fault breakers,” he continued. “Since arc faults are known to cause house fires, these types of breakers were developed to be safer.”

3. Decide if you need to add extra circuits. In addition to analyzing your existing electrical panel, take the time to determine if you need to add electrical circuits. “An electrician can help you decide if your existing circuits have adequate capacity to support any additional electrical load from your home addition,” he said. “

If you are planning to renovate or add to your home this year, make adequate plans ahead of time. Although the electrical is just one component of turning your home into your “dream home,” it is an important one. We hope that these tips help provide you with the framework you need to get started. If you have any questions about home electrical wiring, we encourage you to contact us. In the meantime, happy planning!

Ruth McGuire

For just over 10 years, the staff at Berwick Electric Co. (BEC) enjoyed the spirited laughter and can-do attitude that Accounting Assistant Ruth McGuire brought to the office. With Ruth’s retirement, the BEC team will miss the years of experience and expertise that Ruth brought to the table.

“Ruth was always very upbeat and encouraging,” Payroll Specialist Susie Kellogg said. “She was always very easy to talk with on both a personal and a professional level. She will be missed around here!”

Originally from northern Illinois, Ruth has been part of the BEC team since August 2003. “I really enjoyed the variety of my job -- it kept things interesting,” Ruth explained. “I will miss interacting with all of the other staff members!”

Although she will miss working with BEC, Ruth is definitely looking forward to life after retirement. “I'm going to enjoy spending more time outside; I love anything I can put my hand to, such as gardening, landscaping changes, etc.,” Ruth said. “My husband and I will also have more time to enjoy our cabin in the national forest, as well as more time to spend with our grandchildren.”

Ruth was a huge asset to BEC, and she will be missed! We wish her all the best in retirement!

Whether or not you have the opportunity to spend time with family or friends today, we hope that you take a moment to pause and reflect on the beauty of the season. From our family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas!

Only in a mountainous state would electricians potentially need to repel down rocks in order to place lighting. Although traditional images of electrical work include installing light fixtures or wiring outlets, the actual work environment can be quite adventurous.  Today we invite you to take a look into some of our recent projects, headed by BEC Project Manager Tony Cerciello. Read on!

Wiring State-of-the-Art Medical Facilities

BEC electrician Justin Fauland installs a light fixture at the El Paso-Teller County 911 Call Center.

For soldiers returning from overseas work, well-rounded mental health care is a priority. To help meet these needs, Evans Army Hospital has built a behavioral health unit. As the electrical subcontractor, BEC had the opportunity to install lighting and wiring. “We are in the final commissioning phases of this project, with the move-in set to take place in January,” Tony explained. “A unique challenge we faced during this project was ensuring that all of the fixtures and devices met government requirements,” he added. “It’s vitally important that patients are in the safest environment possible.”

In addition to finishing up the behavioral health unit at Evans Army Hospital, BEC is also slated to replace approximately 50 percent of the lamps and ballasts in the building. The goal is to swap out the current lighting with energy-efficient alternatives that will both save money and reduce the hospital’s carbon footprint.

On the medical end of the spectrum, BEC is also completing a variety of work at St. Francis Medical Center. In addition to installing the electrical components of a physicians’ lounge, BEC’s electricians are also hard at work on a gastrointestinal suite and a perioperative suite. “What makes this job unique is working inside of an operating hospital,” Tony said. “We take every precaution to help prevent the spread of disease, while also ensuring that life safety systems (such as the fire alarm system), will continue to function while electrical work is in progress.”

Unique Work Environments and Fast Deadlines

BEC Electrician Matt Vigil installs wiring at the El Paso-Teller County 911 Call Center.

After all of the critical medical projects are complete, BEC electricians will potentially have the opportunity to practice their repelling skills with a new lighting project at Seven Falls. Although Seven Falls sustained significant damage during recent flooding, the natural site is planning to reopen after repairs are completed. Those who are familiar with the Colorado Springs area know that Seven Falls is a staple of local tourism. Gorgeous scenery and hiking opportunities draw locals and visitors alike. To enhance the natural beauty of the area, Seven Falls will install accent lighting to illuminate the rocks at night. “We are currently in the design-assist stage of this project with Norcostco Lighting out of Denver,” Tony said. “Should we be awarded the project, we may have some very adventurous work days. Due to the extreme rock conditions in the area, some of the lighting spots can only be reached by repelling to them.”

Additionally, work is 70 percent complete on new fixtures at the El Paso-Teller County 911 Call Center. “This project was accelerated,” Tony explained. “In order to meet the quick turnaround time, BEC had to ensure quality team work with the general contractor and the other trades.”

A wide variety projects definitely keep BEC’s project managers and electricians on their toes. Working with a high standard of excellence and care is a top priority at BEC. To learn more about the services we offer, please click here.

What could be sweeter than a delicious bake sale to brighten up the middle of a busy work week? Yesterday, Berwick Electric Co. employees had the opportunity to participate in a bake sale fundraiser for Special Kids Special Families (SKSF). The bake sale was a smashing success; each yummy item was snatched up, making the sale a total sell-out!

The SKSF bake sale at BEC was a total sell-out!

SKSF is a local non-profit that aims to provide support to families who are raising youth and caring for adults with developmental disabilities and special needs.  In response to a need for such community services, SKSF offers respite care, specialized foster care, adult day programs, and family preservation services. Since it was founded in 1998, SKSF has grown to be an integral part of the Pikes Peak community.

As part of SKSF’s Give! Campaign, the non-profit chose to focus on building relationships within the community. And baked goods are a great way to do so! All proceeds of the bake sale fundraiser went to Zach’s Place, SKSF’s respite care center. Zach’s Place offers active, structured, and free play while teaching important life and socialization skills.

BEC was pleased to take part in SKSF’s Give! Campaign. To learn more about the specific services that SKSF offers, please visit www.sksfcolorado.org.

Evaluate your energy costs with a home audit from CSU.

With the holiday season in full swing, chances are that the last thing on your “to-do” list is a home energy audit. But as soon as we turn the corner into 2014, you may want to consider ways to reduce your home energy costs.

To help you accomplish this, Colorado Springs Utilities offers a complimentary home energy audit, and it only takes about 15 to 20 minutes to complete. This audit is designed to help you identify any areas in which you may be wasting money on inefficient energy usage.

To learn more about this free service, please visit the Colorado Springs Utilities website, or click here.

For more than 90 years, Berwick Electric Co. has enjoyed a solid reputation in the Colorado Springs community. And, behind such consistently great work is a very talented team of individuals. Today we have the privilege of shining a “spotlight” on BEC staff member Susie Kellogg. For nearly 21 years, Susie has honed her skills as BEC’s payroll specialist.  We invite you to get to know Susie better by following along with our conversation below.

BEC Payroll Specialist Susie Kellogg

Berwick Electric Co. (BEC): Where are you originally from?
Susie Kellogg (SK): I’m originally from Ludington, Michigan. I moved to Colorado Springs in 1982.

BEC: What do you enjoy about your position at BEC?
SK: I enjoy interacting with everyone, including the electricians; I like keeping them happy.

BEC: Outside of work, how do you like to spend your time?
SK: I like quilting, camping, attending church functions, and traveling.

BEC: Is there anything else that you would like to share?
SK: I’m going to miss all of the retirees! We have so many of them this year.

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Need quality, reliable commercial or residential electrical service? Berwick Electric Co. would love the opportunity to serve you. Please call us at 632.7683 or click here to request service.