Westend Glasgow Electricians 2024

EICR Glasgow

 

The Importance of Emergency Electricians in the West End of Glasgow and Surrounding Areas

The West End of Glasgow, known for its vibrant community, historic architecture, and bustling local businesses, is one of the most sought-after areas in the city. However, like any other urban neighborhood, residents and businesses in the West End are not immune to electrical emergencies. Whether it's a sudden power outage, faulty wiring, or an urgent need for repairs, the availability of a reliable emergency electrician is crucial. In this blog, we will explore the significance of emergency electricians in the West End of Glasgow and its surrounding areas, including Hillhead, Partick, and Kelvinbridge.

Why Emergency Electricians Are Essential

Electrical issues can occur without warning and often at the most inconvenient times. A power cut in the middle of the night, a tripped circuit breaker on a busy weekend, or flickering lights that indicate a potential wiring issue can all pose significant risks to both safety and comfort. These situations require immediate attention from a professional who can diagnose and fix the problem swiftly.

An emergency electrician is available 24/7 to respond to these urgent situations. Their prompt response can prevent potential hazards such as electrical fires, which could cause extensive damage to property and endanger lives. For businesses in the West End, where foot traffic is high, a power outage or electrical failure can lead to lost revenue and customer dissatisfaction. Thus, having a dependable emergency electrician on call is not just a matter of convenience but a critical aspect of property and business management.

Common Electrical Emergencies in the West End

The West End, with its mix of old tenement buildings and modern flats, presents unique electrical challenges. Here are some common emergencies that residents and businesses in the area might encounter:

1. Power Outages: Often caused by severe weather, faulty wiring, or issues with the local grid, power outages can bring daily life to a halt. Emergency electricians can quickly identify the cause and restore power.

2. Faulty Wiring: Older buildings, which are common in the West End, may have outdated or deteriorating wiring. This can lead to short circuits, blown fuses, or even fires if not addressed promptly.

3. Tripped Circuit Breakers: Overloaded circuits can cause breakers to trip frequently. While resetting a breaker is a simple task, repeated tripping indicates a deeper issue that needs professional attention.

4. Electrical Shocks: If you experience a shock when plugging in or touching an appliance, it’s a clear sign of a problem. Emergency electricians can safely assess and repair the issue to prevent further danger.

5. Burning Smell: A burning smell from outlets or switches is a serious warning sign. It could indicate overheating or a fire hazard and requires immediate intervention from an expert.

Serving Surrounding Areas: Hillhead, Partick, and Kelvinbridge

While the West End is the focal point, surrounding areas such as Hillhead, Partick, and Kelvinbridge also benefit from the services of emergency electricians. These neighborhoods, each with their distinct character and history, share similar electrical concerns due to their proximity and similar architectural styles.

• Hillhead: Home to the University of Glasgow, this area has a mix of student accommodations and residential properties. Electrical issues can disrupt studies and everyday life, making prompt electrical services essential.

• Partick: A bustling area with a mix of residential, retail, and commercial properties, Partick’s electrical infrastructure can face strain, particularly in older buildings. Emergency electricians are crucial in maintaining safety and functionality here.

• Kelvinbridge: Known for its picturesque views and historic buildings, Kelvinbridge also has its share of electrical issues, especially in older properties that require careful handling to maintain their integrity.

Choosing the Right Emergency Electrician

When choosing an emergency electrician in the West End of Glasgow, consider the following:

• Experience and Expertise: Look for electricians with a proven track record in handling various electrical emergencies, especially those common in older buildings.

• 24/7 Availability: Emergencies don’t wait for convenient times. Ensure the electrician offers round-the-clock service.

• Local Knowledge: An electrician familiar with the West End and surrounding areas will understand the specific challenges these neighborhoods present.

• Positive Reviews: Customer reviews can give you insight into the reliability and quality of the electrician’s work.

Conclusion

Electrical emergencies require immediate attention, and having a trusted emergency electrician in the West End of Glasgow can provide peace of mind. Whether you're dealing with a power outage in Partick, faulty wiring in Hillhead, or a tripped circuit breaker in Kelvinbridge, knowing who to call can make all the difference. Ensure your safety and protect your property by choosing a reliable emergency electrician who understands the unique needs of this vibrant and historic part of Glasgow.

By addressing electrical issues promptly and professionally, you can keep your home or business running smoothly, no matter what challenges arise.

EICR GLASGOW

Ensuring Compliance and Efficiency: A Comprehensive Guide to EPC and EICR for Landlords in the West End of Glasgow 2024

EICR Renfrew

 

Ensuring Compliance and Efficiency: A Comprehensive Guide to EPC and EICR for Landlords in the West End of Glasgow

The West End of Glasgow, renowned for its Victorian architecture, cultural vibrancy, and bustling community, is an attractive locale for both residents and landlords. However, with the privilege of owning property in such a prestigious area comes the responsibility of adhering to stringent safety and efficiency standards. This article delves into the critical aspects of Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR) and Energy Performance Certificates (EPC), providing landlords with a thorough understanding of these requirements and their implications for properties in the West End and surrounding areas.

Understanding Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR Glasgow)

1. What is an EICR? An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a detailed inspection and assessment of the electrical installations within a property. This includes wiring, fuse boxes, sockets, and other fixed electrical equipment. The primary aim of an EICR is to ensure that the electrical installations are safe, compliant with regulations, and fit for continued use.

2. Legal Requirements:

• Frequency: For rental properties, an EICR must be conducted at least every five years or at the start of a new tenancy.
• Qualified Personnel: The inspection must be carried out by a qualified electrician or an approved contractor who can issue a valid report.

3. Importance of EICR:

• Safety First: An EICR identifies potential hazards that could lead to electrical shocks, fires, or other safety risks. Ensuring your property passes this inspection is crucial for tenant safety.
• Legal Compliance: Failing to comply with EICR requirements can result in significant fines and legal action, jeopardizing your ability to rent out the property.
• Insurance Implications: Many insurance policies for rental properties require a valid EICR. An up-to-date EICR can be pivotal in the event of an insurance claim.

Energy Performance Certificates (EPC): A Key to Efficiency

1. What is an EPC? An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) provides a rating of a property’s energy efficiency, ranging from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). The certificate includes recommendations for improving the property’s energy performance, which can help reduce energy consumption and costs.

2. Legal Requirements:

• When is it needed? An EPC is required whenever a property is constructed, sold, or rented out to new tenants.
• Validity: An EPC is valid for ten years, but landlords are encouraged to renew it sooner if significant energy-saving improvements are made.
• Minimum Standard: Since April 2020, rental properties must have a minimum EPC rating of E. Properties with an F or G rating cannot be rented out unless they qualify for an exemption.

3. Benefits of a Good EPC Rating:

• Lower Energy Bills: A higher EPC rating means better energy efficiency, leading to lower energy bills for tenants—an attractive selling point.
• Environmental Impact: Improved energy efficiency reduces the property’s carbon footprint, contributing to environmental sustainability.
• Market Value: Properties with better EPC ratings often command higher rental prices and can see an increase in market value.

Focus on the West End and Surrounding Areas

The West End of Glasgow, along with neighboring districts like Hillhead, Partick, and Kelvingrove, is characterized by a mix of historical and contemporary buildings. For landlords in these areas, maintaining high standards of electrical safety and energy efficiency is essential.

1. The West End:

• Architectural Heritage: The West End boasts many older buildings with historical significance. Regular EICRs are crucial to ensure these properties meet modern safety standards.
• Energy Efficiency Challenges: Older properties often struggle with energy efficiency. Implementing EPC recommendations can significantly enhance energy performance.

2. Hillhead:

• Student Population: With a high student population, properties in Hillhead must be safe and energy-efficient to meet the expectations of young tenants and their parents.
• Modern Upgrades: Converting traditional buildings into modern, efficient living spaces can boost appeal and rental income.

3. Partick:

• Diverse Housing Stock: From traditional tenements to new builds, Partick offers a variety of property types. Ensuring compliance with EICR and EPC standards across different property types is essential.
• Community Focus: Energy-efficient homes contribute to a more sustainable community, aligning with the area’s progressive values.

4. Kelvingrove:

• Tourism and Short-Term Lets: The proximity to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum makes this area popular for short-term lets. Regular EICRs and good EPC ratings can enhance the attractiveness of these properties.

Steps to Compliance Landlord Certificates Glasgow

1. Conduct Regular EICRs: Schedule an EICR with a qualified electrician every five years or at the start of a new tenancy. Address any issues identified in the report promptly to ensure ongoing safety.

2. Obtain and Update EPCs: Ensure your property has a valid EPC before renting it out. If your EPC rating is below E, take the necessary steps to improve it, such as upgrading insulation, installing energy-efficient lighting, or modernizing heating systems.

3. Implement Energy Efficiency Measures: Follow the recommendations provided in the EPC. Simple upgrades can make a significant difference in energy efficiency and tenant satisfaction.

4. Stay Informed and Proactive: Keep abreast of any changes in legislation regarding electrical safety and energy efficiency. Regularly review and update your compliance practices to meet evolving standards.

Conclusion

For landlords in the West End of Glasgow and surrounding areas, adhering to EICR and EPC requirements is not just a matter of legal compliance—it’s about ensuring the safety, comfort, and satisfaction of your tenants. By prioritizing electrical safety and energy efficiency, you can enhance the value and appeal of your properties, contribute to a more sustainable environment, and secure a competitive edge in the rental market.

Maintaining high standards in these areas is a mark of professionalism and responsibility. As a landlord, your commitment to these practices not only protects your investment but also fosters trust and reliability in the eyes of your tenants.

Certificates 4 Landlords - Smoke Alarms

Introduction

From the 1st October 2015 regulations require smoke alarms to be installed by qualified electricians in rented residential accommodation and carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with a solid fuel appliance. Changes are also made to the licence requirements in relation to houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), such as shared houses and bedsits which require a licence and also in relation to properties which are subject to selective licensing. The Regulations apply both to houses and flats. Failure to comply can lead to a civil penalty being imposed of up to £5,000.

These provisions only apply in England; not Wales.

EICR Electricians Glasgow

Who is affected?

The requirements are imposed on the immediate landlord. There is an exemption for providers of social housing. A tenancy includes a licence to occupy a residential premises and it also extends to subletting for these purposes.

In the case of a licensed HMO or where there is a selective licensing it is the responsibility of the licence holder to ensure that mandatory conditions imposed in relation to the installation of alarms are complied with.

The premises affected

These duties apply to residential premises which means premises all or part of which comprise a dwelling. Thus, it will apply to a flat over a shop. If the property is a licensed HMO or subject to selective licensing there are mandatory conditions imposed on licences.

The premises must be let under a specified tenancy or a licence. This is a tenancy or licence of residential premises which grants one or more persons the right to occupy premises as their only or main residence. Rent or a licence fee must be payable.

There are various exemptions:-

• A tenancy under which the occupier shares any accommodation with the landlord or a member of the landlord's family. There must be a sharing of an amenity which includes a toilet, personal washing facilities, a kitchen or a living room but excludes any reference to storage or access.
• A tenancy which is a long lease or which grants a right of occupation of the premises, i.e. for more than 21 years.
• Student halls of residence.
• Hostels
• Care homes
• Hospitals
• Accommodation relating to health care provision

Requirement for Smoke alarms

During any period beginning on or after 1st October 2015 while the premises are occupied under a tenancy (or licence) the landlord must ensure that a smoke alarm is equipped on each storey of the premises on which there is a room used wholly or partly as living accommodation. A living room will include a lounge dining room and kitchen as well as a bathroom or toilet. It also includes a hall or landing. This means that a smoke alarm must be provided in working order on each storey. The RLA takes the view that mezzanines are caught by this legislation where they contain a room used wholly or partly as living accommodation, including a bathroom or toilet. As regards individual flats located on one floor then there will have to be at least one alarm within the flat itself or alternatively are provided outside the flat on the same floor of the building, i.e. a communal alarm.

Likewise, for flats comprising more than one storey there will need to be a smoke alarm on each floor.

It is the location of an alarm which sounds which is crucial; not the positioning of detectors.

The Regulations do not stipulate what kind of alarm is required. Ideally it should be a hard wired alarm system. It can, however, be a single standalone alarm. Landlords are recommended by the RLA to fit ten year long life tamper proof alarms, otherwise there is a problem of batteries being taken out and not being replaced.

As a final note, heat detectors are not considered sufficient. It will have to be a smoke detector.

Carbon monoxide alarms

Additionally, landlords must ensure that there is a carbon monoxide alarm fitted in any room that is used partly or wholly as living accommodation which also contains any appliance which burns, or is capable of burning, solid fuel. This would include log and coal burning stoves and open fires, even if they are not normally in use, but does not include gas and oil boilers. If an open fireplace is purely decorative and not useable then it is not covered by the regulations.

Gas is not a solid fuel and so there is no requirement to fit one near a gas boiler. It is still advisable as best practice however.

Checks

The landlord is specifically required to carry out a check to ensure that smoke alarms or carbon monoxide alarms installed to comply with the Regulations are in proper working order on the day a tenancy begins where it is a new tenancy. A new tenancy is a tenancy granted on or after 1st October 2015.

For these purposes a new tenancy does not include a tenancy which was granted where the original agreement was entered into before 1st October 2015; nor does it include a periodic statutory tenancy which arises when a fixed term shorthold tenancy ends. It does not apply to a tenancy which starts at the end of an earlier tenancy where the landlord and tenant are the same as under the earlier tenancy and the premises are the same (or substantially the same) as those under the earlier tenancy. Therefore this express requirement to check does not apply to the renewal of a tenancy for the same premises by the same landlord to the same tenant. This should not be confused with the requirement to install detectors and alarms which applies to tenancies in existence before October 1st 2015.

In our view, landlords should not be under a false sense of security because of this provision. Our reading of the regulation is that there is an ongoing obligation to ensure that any smoke alarm or carbon monoxide alarm installed to meet these requirements is in working order. Alarms should therefore be checked periodically to see that they are working properly. There is no reason why this responsibility should not be placed on the tenant and the government guidance does suggest the tenant check monthly. However, the landlord will then have to make sure that the tenant does actually carry out the checks. If challenged, a landlord could have to show that a proper system has been put in place to check alarms regularly.

Placement of Alarms

The regulations do not tell landlords where to place the smoke alarms, instead the guidance suggests the landlord follow the manufacturer's instructions which will typically be at head height between 1-3 meters away from the solid fuel burning source for carbon monoxide alarms and in a circulation point for smoke detectors.

HMOs and Selectively licensed properties

As from 1st October 2015 new licence conditions will be included requiring the provision of smoke alarms and fire detectors. In the case of HMO licences they already contain provisions for alarms in any case. The regulations themselves are not applicable in this kind of accommodation.

Enforcement

The local authority is responsible for enforcement.

A local authority must serve a remedial notice within 21 days where they have reason to believe that the landlord is in breach of any of these duties relating to smoke alarms or carbon monoxide alarms. A remedial notice must specify the action to be taken within 28 days of the date of the service of the notice. It allows the landlord 28 days to make representations against the notice.

The landlord must then take the required action within the period allowed. There is an excuse for a landlord for non-compliance with the notice if the landlord can show that he has taken reasonable steps to comply with the duty, but the landlord is not required to take legal proceedings. This could cover a situation where the tenant refuses access to allow the work to be done.

If the landlord fails to take action then the local authority must, if it has the necessary consent to do so, arrange for the work required to be undertaken within 28 days of consent being obtained if consent of the occupier of the premises is required. Therefore if a local authority is also refused access by the tenant it cannot take the necessary steps itself.

Penalties

If the landlord is in breach the local authority may require the landlord to pay a penalty charge up to a maximum of £5,000. It has discretion whether or not to impose this charge. If it intends to impose a charge it must serve a penalty charge notice within six weeks from when it is first satisfied that a breach has occurred. A right to make representations against the penalty notice is given and the local authority may reduce the charge for prompt payment.

Appeals

If the local authority upholds a penalty charge notice there is a right to appeal for the landlord to the First Tier Tribunal. The Grounds of Appeal are:-

• Local authority has made an error of fact or law
• The amount of penalty charge is unreasonable
• The decision to impose a penalty is unreasonable for any other reason

Payment of the penalty is suspended pending any appeal.

Local authority penalty policy

Each local authority must publish a statement of principles which will be followed in determining the amount of any penalty charge. This statement will be taken into account in deciding on an individual penalty for a particular case.

electricians westend glasgow

NICEIC UPDATES 2015

  Regulations in 2015/2016

After I attended a briefing and update session today by the NICEIC I can report on some of the main points of interest to property owners:-

• Between January and July 2015 electrical installations work undertaken can comply with either the old or the new regulations. From July 2015 the new regulations will apply except in one regard in respect of replacement or new Consumer Units. Any electrical contractor engaged should by January be conversant with the new regulations.
• Not unexpectedly the changes to regulations are there mainly to improve safety to persons and property. A few of the changes are to better align our regulations alongside common European regulations.
• For home owners, from January 2016 at the latest, the main change will be a slightly different construction for Consumer Units (aka Fuse Box). Consumer Units will need to be of a fire resistance construction, in other words steel. They may not be quite so pretty and the method for the cables entering the Consumer Unit may not be so flexible or pretty either.  We shall have to wait and see what the manufacturing industry comes up with over time as they accommodate this new requirements.  I would forecast that prices for these new steel Consumer Units will be more expensive to manufacture and will take a little longer to install.  It also means that from mid 2014 there could be a flood of 3rd Amendment Regulation non compliant Consumer Units available at knock down prices.
• For commercial businesses, schools, colleges and government buildings there will be stricter requirements for additional protection against electric shock on socket outlet circuits by increasing the use of safety devices called RCDs.  It will be a useful change in increasing safety but it does mean perhaps increased costs and in some cases a different approach to design circuits for computer equipment in offices and education establishments.
• The will be more focus of design, inspection and testing of control circuits such as those used for central heating systems. This could present some challenges for Gas/Oil heating system engineers who may in the future have to call in an electrician whereas previously they could have completed the wiring to control valves, controllers and thermostats themselves.  This too will have cost implications on home owners.
• The regulations for formal Inspection are changing a little as well. Enough require all new stationary and reference material for electrical contractors. Also new  methods and adjustments to learn how to use for recording results.
• Interestingly there is a new regulation that when Periodic Inspections and Tests (EICR)are being undertaken in Homes and Business Premises then inspection to some degree or another in accessible loft spaces is now required unless recorded as a reasonable non compliance. Previously the inspection of wiring in loft spaces was a reasonably accepted omission. This is certainly a safety improvement as I personally have found a fair number of safety issues with wiring in lofts.
• Another change is the need to ensure cables that run above or across safe exit routes but be secured with supports that will resist heat/fire. This is to avoid fire fighters and escapees being tangled up in drooping wire when try to get out of fire damaged building. Apparently the Fire Fighters requested this changes because there had been several deaths because of this problem.  To installing electricians this is a fairly  easy requirement to meet by using metal type buckle clips or purpose designed cable retainers for use inside trunking.
• In the new Regulations there will now be approximately 1500 individual regulations, and increase of several hundred compared to the current issue.

LED LIGHTING GLASGOW

Replacement Consumer unit Glasgow

Vist our website www.weselectrical.co.uk or call 01418405236



17th Edition: Update for customers in the Glasgow and the surrounding areas october 21, 2015

Over the next year the electrical industry in the UK, faces Several changes to the electrical regulations. It has already started with the introduction of BS 7671: 2008(2015) - Amendment 3 to the 17th Edition of the IET wiring regulations - on 1st January 2015 and will continue through to 2016. It is important that electricians and electrical installers and electrical contractors understand what the amendment is and how it will affect their customers and there business

 So whats changed?

 BEAMA, the independent expert knowledge base and forum for the electrotechnical industry for the UK and across Europe, has said that the primary root-cause of fires in consumer units is loose electrical connections. Additionally, the London Fire Brigade has found that fires involving electrical consumer units have increased to approximately five incidents each week. It’s clear that a change needs to be made to protect consumers from potential harm. The London Fire Brigade LFB has been working with Electrical Safety First, BEAMA and other industry organisations to make edits to Amendment 3 requirements that will directly improve personal safety and quell the risk of residential fires.

What does it all Means? Glasgow 

To address this issue Amendment 3 will provide a degree of enhanced fire risk protection, requiring switchgear assemblies – including consumer units - to have their enclosures made from a suitable non-combustible material, or be installed in a cabinet or enclosure comprised from a suitable non-combustible material, for example steel. This is all covered within Chapter 42 with the addition of Regulation 421.1.201. MK Electric will be making the mandatory changes to their consumer units, using metal enclosures, which will be available at the end of March. This new range will be available alongside their MK Sentry insulated consumer unit portfolio. Enhanced fire safety is also referenced in the new Regulation 521.201, which outlines the requirements for wiring systems which are above escape routes, to be supported by fire-resistant fastenings and fixings. All cabling must be supported such that it cannot prematurely collapse when exposed to extreme heat. Once again there is a hint towards the use of metallic materials, although this is not prescribed. Amendment 3 also puts more responsibility on the installer. Chapter 41 examines the use of RCD protection on socket outlets. The regulation now requires RCD protection in accordance with regulation 415.1 for socket outlets up to 20A and for mobile equipment with a current rating not exceeding 32A for outdoor use, for all installations. However there is an exception, for socket outlets up to 20A, where the socket outlet is specifically labelled, or where a documented risk assessment determines that RCD protection is not necessary. Chapter 61 makes a new reference to ‘Skilled person (electrically)’ which has the added condition of the person being competent in inspection, testing and certification work. It also notes that supplies up to 100 amps have a new, more detailed schedule of inspections. Additionally, for installations greater than 100amps, a model list of items that require inspection during initial verification is provided in Appendix 6.

This list, along with a documented risk assessment of any permitted exceptions to the list must be appended to the Electrical Installation Certificate and the declaration signed. Dates to you need Know Over the next year and into 2016 there will be key dates that both manufacturers and installers need to keep in mind to comply with the updated regulation. • 1st January 2015: BS7671:2008+A3 was published.

Installations designed after this date may comply and be certified to these new standards or be designed and certified to BS7671:2008+A2 (for a maximum transitional period of 6 months) • 1st July 2015: BS7671:2008+A2 Installations designed after this date must comply fully with BS7671:2008+A3

 • 1st January 2016: Regulation 421.1.201 comes into full effect (this doesn’t preclude conformity beforehand) MK Electric is Ready​ MK Electric will shortly be announcing details of its new metal consumer unit range for compliance to regulation 421.1.201. The range will be available from the end of March. Additionally, MK Electric is offering electric installers and contractors the opportunity to take part in Continuing Professional Development Accreditation for Training to better understand the regulation. More specifically the session will address how the regulation affects installers, specific changes to be aware of and information they will need to counsel their clientele.

Consequentially, Amendment 3 to BS7671:2008 introduces a new regulation relating to the enhancement of Fire Safety, as follows: Regulation 421.1.201 – Protection against thermal effects – Consumer Units Within domestic (household) premises, consumer units and similar switchgear assemblies shall comply with BS EN 61439 3 and shall: Have their enclosure manufactured from a non-combustible material, or Be enclosed in a cabinet or enclosure constructed of non-combustible material and complying with Regulation 132.12 Amendment 3 was published on 5th January 2015 and will apply to all Electrical installations designed after 1st July 2015; however Regulation 421.1.201 will not be mandatory until 1st January 2016.

LED Lighting In the home.

For most of my customers in Glasgow the issue of lighting is never a dull subject to discuss, with the advancement in LED technology, the dawn of the new more powerful and colourful led lamps is upon us. I can assure customers that if the purchase the led lamps i recommend for their lighting the would not notice much in a way of difference in light but a significant reduction in the cost of running their lighting in the home.

The UK is in the top five nations in Europe for buying energy saving light bulbs, but lagging behind in the purchase of ‘next generation’ lighting such as LEDs.

More testing, information and certification of the kind we’re involved in through the PremiumLight scheme should certainly help increase consumer confidence. But outside the domestic market, it seems companies do not need much extra convincing.

Forbes grandly decreed recently that “LED retrofits are the ‘Trojan horse’ of the Internet of Things” with the market for just sensors and applications related to LED lighting set to more than double to 2020. This is not so surprising at all if we are to take the Carbon Trust’s director of implementation Myles McCarthy at his word:

A business, such as a warehouse or large hotel, can save up to 70% of its electricity costs by switching to LED lights with motion sensors…and receive a payback on the capital outlay within two years.”

Efficiency, cost reductions and the kind of light quality benefits that we saw in our Lit Up report on LED lighting in social housing schemes in Westend Glasgow are a potent combination.

Increased take-up of new technologies tends to mean falling prices and a growth in demand for fittings and extras – in this case those extras which play into the idea of a future of smart energy management. The future is suddenly looking very rosy indeed for LEDs. And that’s before we’ve even touched ‘Li-fi’.

Yes, that’s right – LED-based Wi-Fi connectivity may be another imminent boom to the LED industry, with a tussle for technological supremacy seemingly opening up between the UK and China.  Visible light communications, or VLC, can produce high data speeds at low cost, and while there was some scepticism about recent claims of a breakthrough in Shanghai, a British collaborative study seems to have backed them up.

Micro LED bulbs can handle millions of changes of light intensity, which can in turn transmit data. Parallel streams of light can multiply the amount of data transmitted – something likened water out of showerhead by a University of Strathclyde scientist.

Whether we’re bathing in an LED glow or using LED light to stream a video, this is certainly a technology we’re going to be well acquainted with over the coming years.

WES ELECTRICAL 

westend glasgow electricians

Landlords (EICR) Electrical Testing (PIR)

Periodic Inspection Report (PIR) & Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK - WES ELECTRICAL

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (E.I.C.R.) previously known as a Periodic Inspection Report (P.I.R) is like a M.O.T for the mains power electrical installation and wiring of your property.

Some properties are required by law to conduct an E.I.C.R. at set intervals, depending on the type of use and if the public have access.

There is no obligation for private domestic properties which are not rented out to have a valid E.I.C.R. but many property owners employ the services of a qualified electrician to conduct an E.I.C.R. to be aware in what condition the installation is.

A report is only issued once all the circuits have been visually inspected and electrically tested.

If the installation is considered to be in a good condition and complies with the regulations a ‘Satisfactory’ certificate is applied which gives the property a good bill of health until the next inspection.

A date for the next inspection will also be entered on the report, and depending upon the condition of the installation and the purpose of use.

If the property does not meet requirements an ‘Unsatisfactory’ report will be issued, with a list of remedial works that need to be fixed before a the installation can pass the test.

If you are about to conduct a major renovation project it is advisable to conduct an E.I.C.Rhttps://www.facebook.com/westendglasgowelectrician to give you an accurate picture of the condition of the electrical installation and wiring in the building. If you need to some works on your installation it would probably be better to do so before you finalise all your decorating works.

Remember: – electricity can be dangerous. Overheated cables can start fire. Don’t risk your own safety as well as of the other occupants of the property. Maintain your electrical installation in safe condition.

wes electrical  have a great reputation for conducting electrical certification to all types of property, both domestic and commercial, with minimum disruption to the tenants and owners.

Westend Glasgow Electricians

Electrical contracting in Glasgow 2014

I have been wondering for a while now why our industry has been cutting itself down and not staying true to business. What do I mean by that well I look at the  bass fitters and the plumbers in my marketplace and they all have the same mentality and price structure. No one veers far from the standard price in the Glasgow and Mosspark area whether you are a one man show or a 50 man shop. HVAC companies have good structure and the standards for the technicians are set higher. They wear uniforms, don’t complain about working on call shifts and just seem to have a better grip on customer service than electricians.

Electricians and electrical contractors have been trying to play catch up with the other industries and trades and I have to say it is about time. We make our living doing a highly skilled trade and still don’t know how to do simple things in business and in marketing. There is no doubt that we are great electrical  technicians but we definitely have some work to do on the business side of things.

I created this blog so we can all try to make our electrical industry a better place to earn a living. Let’s face it, this is what we do to feed our families and if we can not do that then why do it. I see electrical contractors everyday that go out of business not because they were bad electricians but they just don't understand how in todays market place new thinking and new approaches need to be taken to be a success. Believe me I was one of those guys. I searched and looked for business resources on running an electrical business approached business gateway in glasgow but never found anything. It was the school of hard knocks for me. I realized that our industry thinks it is some secret that should not be told on how to run a business. I think different, I think that if we all have better training and resources that we all will prosper.

For me learning about business has been a full time occupation since i was 20 and could get a job in the electrical industry after my time as an apprentice electrician was done and to be honest i diet want to go out and work for someone, i have always had a business mind and an attitude to making my own money. so thats exactly what i did, and i dominated my local area, but as time goes on without proper knowledge of where marketing and the industry was heading, the work started to slow down, until i released that i need to work hard at keeping my business at the top. There are multiple ways of doing this and i will digress in my other blogs but running a business in todays market in west end glasgow takes much more than placing an add in a news paper.

Lets make a change the electrical contracting game for the better in Glasgow  because our industry is not like a shelf at asda. We cant look for the cheapest disposable electricians forever and it will catch up to all of us eventually. Let me know if you have anything you would like to learn or know about so we cant discuss it further.

The Future of Power

SOLAR POWER 

It took just 10 minutes for Kevin Arthur to be persuaded that the tiny square of red glass on his fingertips was the future of solar power.

He had only recently been involved in a solar energy start-up company and was keen to try his hand at something new.

We would still be in the lab if it wasn't for the Technology Strategy Board – they listened to us when nobody else would – and their faith in our technology is seeing fruition right now – we are world leaders in our field - Kevin Arthur, CEO of Oxford Photovoltaics

 

But that was before he met the charismatic Oxford Universityphysicist Dr Henry Snaith and saw his remarkable solar cells.

 

‘I went into the room a sceptic and came out a believer,' says Kevin, the Chief Executive Officer of Oxford Photovoltaics.

We have been on the most amazing journey with them [Technology Strategy Board] - Kevin Arthur

 

Four years later – with a range of Technology Strategy Board fundings under their belt the two of them were heading up one of the UK's most promising young green electrical companies.

The incredible journey

‘We would still be in the lab if it wasn't for the Technology Strategy Board – they listened to us when nobody else would – and their faith in our technology is seeing fruition right now – we are world leaders in our field,' added Kevin.

 

‘We have been on the most amazing journey with them. In the beginning – on that day in that room just four years ago – Henry showed me a solar cell technology that was low-cost, easy to produce and which could be printed on the surface of glass. 

 

‘The idea gripped me straight away. You mixed up the stuff and printed it on glass. That meant it could be used in the glass skins of commercial buildings - a massive market. I was really excited by the opportunity!'

Unlike conventional silicon solar panels which use rare earth metals and toxic materials, Henry's photovoltaic cells, developed at the Photovoltaic and Optoelectronic Device Group in Oxford University's Physics Department, use cheap, abundant and environmentally friendly materials - Kevin Arthur

 

By November 2009, Kevin already had more than 20 years' experience in the semi-conductor industry and two promising university spin-outs under his belt. He wanted a new challenge. 

 

‘I was entrepreneur in residence at Imperial College when I was phoned by Isis Innovation – Oxford University's technology transfer arm - who asked if I wanted to be chief executive officer of another solar start up.

 

‘I'd already done solar with a university spin-out called QuantaSol so I told them ‘no thanks,' but by the end of that meeting with Henry  I had changed my mind,' explained Kevin. 

 

Low cost solutions for the environment

‘Unlike conventional silicon solar panels which use rare earth metals and toxic materials, Henry's photovoltaic cells, developed at the Photovoltaic and Optoelectronic Device Group in Oxford University's Physics Department, use cheap, abundant and environmentally friendly materials.

 

‘The technology works by printing a microscopic layer of ‘solid-state dye sensitised solar cells' on ordinary glass. The cells are sealed with a thin layer of glass.

 

‘A layer of cells is just one or two thousandths of a millimetre thick (one or two microns) and can be made in a range of colours and transparencies,' said Kevin.

 

‘In contrast, the equivalent traditional product – amorphous silicon solar cells often found in calculators – are black or brown and the process of making them transparent severely reduces their already low efficiency. 

 

‘These new solar cells are more efficient, more stable, thinner and use lower cost materials,' says Kevin. ‘They make beautifully clear coloured glass,' he added.

 

‘They work at much higher temperatures than existing technology which tends to lose efficiency above 25ºC. They also work well with diffuse light – making them suitable for building facades.

 

Harnessing the power of the sun

‘In 2009, the cells were working at five per cent efficiency, which meant it was converting five per cent of sunlight into electricity.

 

‘That isn't enough for a commercial product which typically works at 15 to 20 per cent efficiency but it was more than enough to show me that the invention had potential. I was hooked,' said Kevin.

All we could think was ‘Amazing! In one step, the Technology Strategy Board has got our company up and running! We could hardly believe it was true! - Kevin Arthur

 

He spent 11 months working on a business plan to allow Oxford Photovoltaics to licence the technology to glass manufacturers and processors. But money was hard to find and the company needed cash before Isis would release the patents.

 

Then in September 2010, Kevin learnt about Innovate 10 Launch Pad – a business competition run by the Technology Strategy Board for ‘disruptive' inventions and business ideas.

 

The prize was £25k and the chance to pitch for an additional £75k in front of 2,000 people at the Design Centre, Glasgow.

 

There was one catch. Kevin discovered this potential funding source late in the day and the deadline for submitting his video entry was noon the next day.

 

‘To make it worse I had a board meeting at 10am. The whole thing is a bit of a blur now. But on that fateful day, I got up at 4.30am, found my video camera, got a tripod from the loft and wrote a two minute script which I stuck to the back of the office door at home.

 

‘Time was ticking, I was on my own and I'd never edited a video before. But I did it and it's still on YouTube. It looks pretty reasonable.

 

‘We got the initial £25k prize in the Energy category and then we had this chance to increase it to £100k at the event itself where we did a short presentation. We beat three other guys and suddenly we had the money to build the company.

 

One step to success with the Technology Strategy Board

If we hadn't got the £100k from the Technology Strategy Board we wouldn't have been able to licence the patents and we wouldn't be here now. But we did. They did - Kevin Arthur

 

‘All we could think was ‘Amazing! In one step The Technology Strategy Board has got our company up and running! We could hardly believe it was true!

 

‘If we hadn't got the £100k from the Technology Strategy Board we wouldn't have been able to licence the patents and we wouldn't be here now. But we did. They did.

 

‘The next day we hit the road and we started pitching to anybody who would listen,' said Kevin.

Once again, the Technology Strategy Board helped us realise our dreams, this time with a £250k grant under the Smart scheme - Kevin Arthur

 

The company took control of the patents, landed £700k from the clean technology investment specialists MTI Ventures and a syndicate of Angel investors and moved to Begbroke Science Park near Oxford in April 2011.

 

Now they faced a new challenge - to go from creating small prototypes to A4 panes of solar power glazing.

That £250k was extremely important because it extended the range of the funding we brought in, and kept us focused on tight timescales and milestones. It gave us more runway - Kevin Arthur

To do that they needed to build the company's research and development capacity. ‘Once again, the Technology Strategy Board helped us realise our dreams, this time with a £250k grant under the Smart scheme.

 

‘That £250k was extremely important because it extended the range of the funding we brought in, and kept us focused on tight timescales and milestones. It gave us more runway,' explained Kevin.

It is yet another British company that is at the forefront of technologies that just a few years ago we would have thought impossible -Kevin Arthur

 

Since then the investment has kept coming. By July 2013, Oxford PV and its 14 employers had secured £4.2m in funding, including an award from the European Commission Seventh Framework Programme for Research.

 

By summer 2013, an improved version of the cell achieved more than 15 per cent efficiency, a level similar to commercial products.

 

‘The technology at our fingertips to change the world'

It's taken less than four years for Oxford PV to go from the lab to one of the UK's most promising green companies, and we did it with the Technology Strategy Board behind us who not only helped us financially but gave us the credibility for other, future investments - Kevin Arthur

 

The first revenues are expected by 2016 while the first office blocks that generate electricity from their windows could follow a few years after that. ‘Imagine that. And it is yet another British company that is at the forefront of technologies that just a few years ago we would have thought impossible,' said Kevin.

 

‘We think the added cost of doing this is 10 per cent on top of the cost of the glass. But this technology pays for itself in less than 10 years,' he added.

 

‘It's taken less than four years for Oxford PV to go from the lab to one of the UK's most promising green companies, and we did it with the Technology Strategy Board behind us who not only helped us financially but gave us the credibility for other, future investments." 

 

‘Henry believes that we have the technology at our fingertips to change the world – and we're determined to prove that he's right.'

 

Electricians Byers Road - Westend Glasgow

Above is one of our latest wall mounted tv installations in the westend of glasgow.
The start of this year has been fantastic the work has been pouring, and as we are in our 7th year at www.weselectrical.co.uk, we are delighted with the progress of work, but mainly with the progress of contacts that we have made.

The westend of glasgow is an up and coming area for investors and private investors alike for student accommodation , bars and restaurants, we work in conjunction with landlords for their electical inspection certificate, in order so they have a hasstle free letting.

we offer electrical rewiring, sockets , lighting solutions, wall mounted tv installations, and much more feel free to visit our website and check our some of the electrical services we can offer.

Wes electrical are the leading electricians and electrical contractor in the westend of glasgow, so you can rest assured your in safe hands

Electricians 2013 Glasgow

Electricians Glasgow west end follow us on Facebook 

This is the last blog of 2013 from WES Electrical, its been a fantastic year always learning year on year on how to deal with business, new situations that can arise, new customer we meet and new business relationships in Glasgow/ clarkston / giffnock / newton mearns that we have made.

Business is fantastic and hopfully going into 2013 we maintain the standard going forward. As per every start of a new year we work out an advertising budget going forward this year we are going to focus on paisley the westend of glasgow, and bearsden. with a busdget of around 2000£ p/m we aim to be pretty busy.
As our goal is to take on a new electrician by february and a new apprentice for the start of june.

We have updates to our websites electricians westend glasgow and to our electricians bearsden.
over the festive period we have been busy with call to attend mostly domestic clients but it is difficult to get materials at this time of year but, usually with the stock we have in our vans and our office in the westend of glasgow we usually get the job done.

thanks for reading our blogs this year, this has been the first year of blogging for us and look to continue into the foreseeable future.

Have a great time tonight for the bells and have a great new year....dont drink too much.

W.E.S Electrical 01418405236

Glasgow commonwealth Games 2014

Glasgow Commonwealth games - Electrical contracting As the Glasgow Commonwealth games fast approaches the city, construction has been booming in the east end of Glasgow. we have seen new building arise out of nowhere on land that has been previously derelict. W.e.s Electrical is on t=of the leading electrical contractors in Glasgow, they said they have seen there business grow 10 fold in the past 2 years mainly in the glasgow area for the build up to the games. Currently W.e.s Electrical are working in conjunction with Glasgow city council to build an athletes village close to parkhead and the new sir chris hoy vellodrome, which will accomodate the athletes every need for the duration of the commonwealth games. Afterwhich the flats will then be turned into residential flats to use for Glasgow city council. Exciting times ahead Director Iain Jamieson said " we are looking to employ another 6-8 electricians over the next 3 months just to keep up the demands of the ongoing projects, we have also tendered for various other projects in Glasgow and in preparation the wider community at large is have work done, so it is a rather busy time and im glad of it" The games have brought a much needed boost to Glasgows econemy as everywhere else at the moment times are hard even the staple of the glasgow shipbuilders BAE Systems is under threat at the moment so any boost for the econemy is welcomed with open arms.

end of a busy day.

this was one of these days that i thought would never end, i had a tv installation in the morning in bearsden and then a call out in the city centre of glasgow, and then finally on to the westend of glasgow for a cooker installation. got up at 8am slightly later than usual but still earlie enough to get in and get my scrambled egg without waiting in a long line. tv installation constisted of 50 inch tv bracket, power socket behind the tv an av port for the hdmi behind the tv down to where the units are being kept (which was in the corner) was straight foward job the hardest part was getting the tv level as the ceiling look off level but we got it looking smart then off to second job. periodic testing of the electrical installation, in the city centre glasgow which took 3 hours, its was a small office close to argyle street,i have to go back and do the pat testing at a later date....noted in the diary. finally heading to the westend glasgow cooking installation i think the least said about this one is best as it was late and i was loosing patience with it. but as usual all job done all electrical installations safe thanks to www.wesuk.co.uk thanks for reading....