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The Importance of UL Listing in Electrical Products: Keeping Your Home and Business Safe

Benjamin Lynch • September 19, 2024

The Importance of UL Listing in Electrical Products: Keeping Your Home and Business Safe

At Light of the World Electric, located in the heart of Colorado Springs, safety is at the forefront of everything we do. Whether you’re a homeowner embarking on a DIY project or a business owner ensuring your building's electrical systems are up to code, one thing you should always prioritize is using UL Listed electrical products.

But what exactly is UL Listing, and why does it matter? Let’s break it down.

What is UL Listing?

UL, or Underwriters Laboratories, is a globally recognized safety certification company. When a product is UL Listed, it means that it has been tested and evaluated for safety risks and meets specific standards established by UL. These standards ensure the product can operate safely under normal conditions and won’t present a hazard when installed or used correctly.

Why Does UL Listing Matter for Electrical Products?

Electrical systems are complex and can be dangerous if not handled correctly. Faulty wiring, poor-quality components, and improper installations can lead to short circuits, electrical fires, and even electrocution. Here are some key reasons why UL Listing is so crucial:

Guaranteed Safety

UL Listed products undergo rigorous testing. From circuit breakers to wiring and light fixtures, UL Listing ensures that each product meets stringent safety standards. This provides peace of mind, knowing that the electrical products you’re using have been vetted by industry experts for safety.

2. Prevents Electrical Hazards

Using non-listed products can result in serious electrical hazards. For instance, a non-UL Listed power strip may overheat, short out, or fail during a surge, causing an electrical fire. In contrast, a UL Listed power strip has been tested for such scenarios and is less likely to malfunction, keeping your home and business protected.

3. Compliance with Local Codes

In Colorado Springs, as in many other parts of the country, building codes require that electrical installations use UL Listed products. Failing to comply with these codes can result in fines, insurance issues, or failed inspections. At Light of the World Electric, we ensure all products used in our installations meet these codes to keep you in compliance and avoid unnecessary complications down the road.

4. Insurance Requirements

Many insurance companies require that only UL Listed products be used in residential and commercial electrical systems. If a fire or other incident occurs and it’s found that non-UL Listed products were involved, your insurance claim could be denied. This could leave you financially responsible for the damages.

5. Long-Term Reliability

UL Listing doesn’t just guarantee safety; it also ensures reliability. When a product has the UL mark, it means it’s been designed and tested to perform consistently over time. This saves you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements or repairs.

How to Identify UL Listed Products

When shopping for electrical products, look for the UL mark—either UL or C-UL for products meeting U.S. and Canadian standards. You can usually find this mark on the packaging or directly on the product itself.

Nature's Symphony

UL Listed product label
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UL Listed product label
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UL Listed Label
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Keep in mind, there are some counterfeit products out there, so if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always purchase from reputable sources, and if in doubt, feel free to consult with a licensed electrician.

Light of the World Electric: Your Safety Partner in Colorado Springs

At LOTW Electric, we understand that your home and business are significant investments, and the safety of your electrical system is paramount. That’s why we only use UL Listed products in all our installations and repairs. Whether you’re upgrading your home’s lighting or outfitting your commercial space with the latest electrical systems, you can rest easy knowing that your safety is our top priority.

Our team of licensed electricians is dedicated to providing high-quality, code-compliant work that meets the latest standards in electrical safety. If you have questions about UL Listing or need expert electrical services in Colorado Springs, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Don’t Cut Corners on Safety

Using UL Listed electrical products is a simple yet essential step in safeguarding your home or business from electrical hazards. At Light of the World Electric, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your electrical systems are both safe and reliable.

If you’re ready to upgrade your electrical systems or need an inspection to ensure everything is up to code, contact Light of the World Electric today, and let’s keep your world powered—safely!

Contact Us:
Light of the World Electric, Colorado Springs, Monument, Black Forest, & the Pikes Peak Region of Colorado
Phone: (719) 424-6028
Email: lightotwelectric@gmail.com

Stay safe, stay UL Listed!

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How Long Does A GFCI Outlet Last

By Benjamin Lynch • November 5, 2024

How Long Does a GFCI Outlet Last? Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) and Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters were likely installed in your home if it was built or remodeled after 1990. These devices protect you and your home from shock and fires. It is essential to check these devices on a regular basis to ensure they are working correctly. What is a GFCI Outlet? GFCI outlets are different from standard electrical outlets in that they protect you and your home from electrical shock. They do this by monitoring the electrical current and tripping when a surge is detected, thereby shutting off the electricity to the outlet. GFCIs are typically located in your garage, kitchen, bathrooms, and electrical panel. Testing Your GFCI Outlets GFCIs have a test and reset button, and this simple maintenance check needs to be performed regularly to ensure they are working correctly. In your electrical panel, they will also have a colored test button. You will simply press the test button to test these devices until you hear a click. Once you hear the click, you will reset the device by either pressing reset or turning the circuit breaker back on. If the breaker or device does not reset, the device is faulty, and you need to replace it with one that will function properly. How long does a GFCI outlet last before needing replacement? Most GFCI outlets will last 15-25 years without issue. However, if you have a faulty GFCI, you must replace it sooner. Some signs of a failing outlet are: The GFCI trips frequently The outlet is cracked or damaged Plugs fall out easily If you are experiencing any of these issues with your GFCI outlets, it’s time to get them replaced. Contact the licensed professionals at Light of the World Electric to handle your electrical needs.