• Why you should replace your bathroom exhaust fan
• How to know when it needs replacement (and what proper sealing looks like)
• When you should do it (especially in Calgary’s climate)
• The advantages of working with us — including our 5-year guarantee

• The fan is louder or noisier than before (motor wearing out).
• Your bathroom still feels damp, misted or humid long after a shower — mirror stays fogged, walls or ceiling show condensation. 
• The fan is slow to start, or seems weak (“sluggish”).
• You detect a burning smell, the fan smells strange when operating. That may indicate a failing motor or electrical issue.
• You fail the “toilet paper test”: hold a piece of toilet paper at the grille while the fan is on — if the paper doesn’t stick/suck in, the fan isn’t doing its job. 
• The fan is 10+ years old and has never been significantly serviced or cleaned. Many sources give 10 years as typical lifespan if well maintained. 

• The duct must vent outdoors, not into attic, crawl space or soffits. Venting into conditioned space invites moisture issues. 
• The duct should be as short and straight as possible, with minimal bends to reduce static pressure and airflow loss.
• Use foil tape or approved sealants on connections (duct to fan, duct to roof vent) to avoid air leakage. 
• Ensure an insulated, airtight housing/back-draft damper on the exterior termination to prevent cold air infiltration in winter — important in Calgary’s cold winters.
• Clean the fan and grille annually (at minimum) so dust and lint don’t reduce airflow or force the motor to work harder. The Home Ventilating Institute recommends routine maintenance at least once a year.
• Check that the fan’s airflow rating (CFM) matches the size of the bathroom and the number of fixtures — for example: for bathrooms under 100 sq ft, use at least 1 CFM per sq ft.

• If your fan is 8-10 years or older, consider proactively replacing it even if it seems to work — newer fans are more efficient, quieter, and designed for modern performance.
• If you’re renovating the bathroom or changing finishes, it’s a great time to upgrade the fan and ducting while ceiling drywall is open.
• If you notice any moisture-related damage (paint peeling, mould spots, condensation after shower) — don’t wait. The sooner you fix the ventilation the less the damage cost.
• In Calgary’s winter, when heating indoors and venting humid air outside creates large temperature differentials, an inefficient fan can increase energy costs or condensation risk. Upgrading before heavy winter use is wise.
• If you’ve recently had drywall or paint repairs due to moisture, or you’ve changed habits (e.g., more showers, added bathroom fixtures), it’s an ideal moment to review the fan.

• Professional assessment of your bathroom’s ventilation needs (size, ducting, air pressure, sealing).
• Full installation of a high-quality exhaust fan matched to your space, with properly sealed ductwork and exterior termination.
• Clean, careful workmanship — minimal disruption, sealed ceilings, debris control, safe wiring and code-compliant venting.
• Clear explanation of maintenance steps you can do; and we’ll show you how to test performance (toilet paper test etc).
• A 5-year guarantee on our workmanship and installation so you have peace of mind.

1. Her kitchen lighting wasn’t cutting it for filming or working.
2. Her living room didn’t have any ceiling lighting at all.

• Installed bright, energy-efficient pot lights in key areas
• Added smart switches for maximum control while filming and hosting
• Rebuilt her living room lighting layout from scratch
• Completed the work with minimal drywall patchwork required 
• Kept the workspace safe, clean, and carefully protected
• Provided guidance through every step of the process

• Clean, professional workmanship
• Transparent pricing
• Guidance through every lighting option
• Exceptional cleanup and thoughtful planning
• A safe, efficient installation every time

 

As temperatures drop, your home’s electrical and heating systems work overtime. A few quick checks now can prevent headaches (and hazards) later. Here’s a homeowner-friendly checklist from the team at Real Canadian Electric.

1) Clear Your Dryer Vent

A clogged dryer duct is a common fire risk.

• Pull the dryer away from the wall to inspect the flex hose and exterior vent.

• Remove built-up lint from the lint trap, the duct, and the outside hood/flap.

• Ensure the exterior flap opens freely when the dryer runs.

Warning: If air can’t escape, heat builds up—raising both drying times and fire risk.

2) Test Smoke & CO Alarms

Cold months mean more furnace and fireplace use. Make sure your alarms are ready.

• Smoke alarms: replace batteries if applicable (or the whole unit if it has expired).

• Carbon monoxide alarms: replace if 7+ years old (or per manufacturer). 

3) Check Programmable Thermostats (Especially Before Trips)

If you’re heading out of town, confirm your electric heating thermostats and furnace controls are working and set properly.

• Set a safe vacation temperature to prevent frozen pipes.

4) Outdoor Outlets & Winter Loads

Holiday lights and block heaters add seasonal demand.

• GFCI protection: test outdoor GFCI outlets; press “Test,” then “Reset” to confirm operation.

• Weather covers: ensure in-use bubble covers close properly with cords plugged in.

• Extension cords: use outdoor-rated cords only; avoid daisy-chaining.

Pro tip: Schedule a quick pre-winter checkup to verify outdoor receptacles are safe and ready.

5) Watch for Panel or Circuit Red Flags

If you notice:

• Lights dim when the dryer, oven, or furnace fan starts

• Breakers that feel warm or trip repeatedly

• Buzzing from the panel or outlets

                               …it’s time for a professional inspection.

These symptoms can indicate loose connections, overloaded circuits, or an aging panel that needs attention.

Wishing you and yours a safe winter,

Real Canadian Electric

www.realcanadianelectric.com

403-453-1344

Home Safety Checklist - Calgary Electrical Maintenance in Prep for the Colder Months

Home Safety Checklist - Calgary Electrical Maintenance in Prep for the Colder Months

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, it’s a clear sign that fall is upon us. With the kids back in school and the days getting shorter, it’s the perfect time to ensure your home’s electrical system is ready for the colder months ahead. Here are some essential electrical maintenance tasks to keep your home safe and secure this fall.

With the heating season approaching, it’s crucial to ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order and not expired - the useful life for most is 7-10 years. Test each unit and replace batteries if needed. Consider calling us to upgrade your system to hardwired smoke and CO detectors for the added safety of constant power and networked alerting.

Check Your Heating System

Before the cold weather sets in, have your heating system inspected by a professional. This includes checking the furnace, heat pump, or boiler. Ensure all electrical connections are secure and components are clean.  If you are planning to use any electrical space heaters, please call us first so that we can inspect your system to avoid dangerous overloads.

Secure Outdoor Lighting and Plugs

As the days get shorter, outdoor lighting becomes more important. Check all exterior lights and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Ensure your outdoor plugs are GFCI outlets to protect against electrical shocks. Adding covers to your outdoor outlets can prevent moisture damage from rain and snow.  Also, be sure to check the outlet and extension cord you use to plug in your car warmer and block heater. 

Inspect Electrical Panels and Circuit Breakers

Fall is a good time to inspect your electrical panel and circuit breakers. Look for any signs of wear or damage, such as rust or corrosion. If you notice frequent tripping of breakers, it may indicate an overloaded circuit. Call us to address any issues.

Prepare for Holiday Decorations

With the holiday season around the corner, many of us will be putting up lights and decorations. Ensure your home’s electrical system can handle the extra load. Only use extension cords rated for outdoor use and avoid overloading circuits. Consider using LED lights, which are more energy-efficient and generate less heat.

Consider Surge Protection

Fall storms can bring power surges that may damage your appliances and electronics. Installing a whole-home surge protector can safeguard your devices from these unexpected spikes in voltage. It’s a small investment that can save you from potentially costly repairs in the future.

By taking these steps, you can ensure your home is ready for the fall and winter seasons. Regular electrical maintenance not only keeps your home safe but also improves efficiency and can save you money in the long run. If you, your friends or your neighbors need assistance with any of these tasks, don’t hesitate to contact us. 

Stay warm and safe this fall!

Now is the perfect time to embrace the power of solar energy in Alberta, a province known for its vast landscapes and abundant sunlight. Let's dive into the incredible potential of solar energy and how it can revolutionize the way we power our homes.

With over 300 days of blue sky each year, Alberta is an ideal location for harnessing the sun's power. Thanks to advancements in solar technology and decreasing costs of solar panels, making the switch to clean and renewable energy has never been more accessible.

Not only does investing in solar energy benefit the planet, but it also benefits your wallet. The Alberta government offers various financial incentives and rebates to encourage the adoption of renewable energy. These incentives, combined with long-term savings on electricity bills, make solar power an economically viable and sustainable choice for homeowners and businesses alike.

We can help.  Get in touch with us if you would like to explore the potential for solar energy for your home or business.

During a recent project, we had a chat with a customer who decided to hire a handyman to install new plugs and switches in their home at a rate of $50 an hour. Seems like a decent deal, right?

Curious about the total cost, I inquired how much the whole job set her back. She mentioned it was around $2000 and it took approximately two days to complete.

Upon inspection, we discovered some errors in the handyman's work. They had left the customer in the dark with malfunctioning lights and several outlets were not functioning properly.

Interestingly, we would have charged a similar price for the initial work, provided a five-year guarantee, and finished it all in just one day. This would have eliminated the need to bring in another professional to fix the issues we uncovered.

Experience truly shines when it comes to home improvement projects! If you're looking for a seasoned professional who gets the job done right the first time, don't hesitate to give us a call.

When it comes to electrical services in your home or business, safety and quality are paramount. Therefore, hiring a professional electrician is a critical decision.

Here are some key factors to consider:

1. Insurance and Licensing: Is your electrician insured and licensed? This is crucial as it protects you if anything goes wrong during the electrical work. A licensed electrician adheres to safety regulations, ensuring that all work is up to code.

2. Qualifications and Experience: What qualifications does the electrician have? There are different levels of qualifications an electrician may have, from a journeyman electrician to a master electrician. It’s also important to consider their experience. An experienced electrician will have a broad knowledge base to handle various electrical issues.

3. Warranty: Does the electrician offer a warranty? A warranty not only protects your bank account if anything goes wrong after the job is completed but also shows the electrician’s confidence in the quality of their work.

4. Communication: How does the electrician communicate with you? A good electrician will provide different options for your electrical needs, listen to your concerns, and show genuine care for you and your family. They should be able to explain complex electrical issues in simple terms.

5. Customer Reviews: Do other customers recommend the electrician? Checking reviews is a helpful way to gauge the electrician’s reputation. Look for an electrician with positive reviews and satisfied customers.

6. Up-to-Date with Code: Is the electrician up-to-date with the latest electrical codes? A professional electrician should be able to check the new code and pull permits for you, if needed. This ensures that all electrical work is compliant with local regulations.

Before you hire your next contractor, make sure you do your research and take your time to check out the answers to these questions. Remember, your safety and satisfaction are worth the extra effort.

In addition to these considerations, you might also want to think about the electrician’s availability. Do they offer 24-hour service? Can they respond to emergency situations? Also, consider the range of services they offer. Do they handle residential and commercial projects? Can they perform specific tasks like ceiling fan installation or surge protection?

Lastly, consider the cost. While it’s important to find an affordable electrician, remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Quality workmanship and safety should never be compromised for cost savings.

By considering these factors, you’ll be well on your way to finding a reliable, professional electrician who can meet your electrical needs safely and effectively.