Green electricians are about accuracy

When we think of a green electrician, we may think of dimmers, low-voltage lighting, energy-efficient appliances and the like, but there are other factors to consider. Recently, Kris, from Stafford Home Service, dropped in at the last minute. My kitchen cabinet installers were coming in and, upon hearing this, Kris wanted to make sure the installation guys were conscious of the electrical decisions and needs.

The first thing I thought was, Kris is great! –a really committed and hard-working electrician. Then, as I watched him go over every detail with the cabinet installers; discussing recessed lighting, in-cabinet lighting pucks, under-cabinet lighting, GFCI outlets, kick-plate lighting, wall ovens, cook tops, dishwashers and a myriad other issues; it occurred to me that his commitment to excellence and accuracy was also an issue of wasted energy and materials. While many electricians would think: “It’s no big deal if I have to redo some work, drill out some wood, replace a wire here and there, etc…” this kind of thinking is what fills our dumps (8,000 lbs of waste are typically thrown into the landfill during the construction of a 2,000 square foot home), wastes energy (the electrician has to drive), and pushes back timelines (which has a knock-on effect).

When looking for a great electrician. Don’t just consider the budget and reliability, look at accuracy, completion dates and a commitment to reducing waste. Your home renovation or new construction will be that much greener and eco-friendly!