ABC defines backlog as “the amount of work, measured in dollars, that construction companies are contracted to do in the future.” The more backlog, the more positive the outlook for the construction industry and vice versa.

The measurement is based on monthly confidential surveys sent to ABC member companies throughout the country. The formula to determine backlog is as follows:

Current month’s level of backlogs (reported in dollars) / Fiscal year 2007 revenues (base year) x 12 = total months of forward-looking work under contract

The survey also asks for geographical information (Northeast, South, Middle States, West), total revenue, and the percentage of company revenue performed in each of these three construction categories: commercial/institutional, infrastructure, and industrial.

A full report from ABC was recently released with information about the current outlook according to the CBI. Thanks to Building Design + Construction, here are a few highlights. And you can download the full report here.

Regional Highlights

– Average backlog in the South is back above 9 months for the first time since the first quarter of 2014.

– Though backlog in the West fell sharply during 2014’s final quarter, average backlog remains comparable to where it was a year ago.

– Both the Northeast and the Middle States registered levels of average backlog unseen during the history of the CBI survey.

Industry Highlights

– Average backlog in the commercial and institutional category is virtually unchanged over the past year, suggesting the pace of recovery will remain moderate overall.

– Infrastructure-related spending is likely to be brisk going forward primarily due to improved state and local government fiscal conditions.

– Heavy industrial average backlog remains in the vicinity of multi-year highs, but these readings do not fully reflect the impact of a stronger U.S. dollar, which may result in a slowdown in export growth and an associated softening in industrial investment.

Highlights by Company Size

– During the fourth quarter, backlog expanded for mid-sized companies with annual revenue ranging between $30 million-$100 million. These firms enjoyed approximately half a month expansion in their respective average backlogs during the fourth quarter.

– On the other hand, backlog for small firms (annual revenue less than $30 million) and very large firms (annual revenue greater than $100 million) declined 0.2 months and 0.5 months, respectively.

– Large firms appear to have been impacted by a slowdown in large project infrastructure spending in certain parts of the country, while smaller firms have been impacted by greater observed difficulty in obtaining bonding for projects in the context of accelerating small firm failures.

– Average backlog has increased by nearly three months or by more than three months for all firm size categories since the fourth quarter of 2009.

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What is a generator?

Simply, a generator is the main solution to tackling outages. It will power your home when you’ve lost electricity for various reasons. There are numerous sizes and types of generators depending on what you want to keep on during an outage. Portable generators are small and can only handle a limited amount of wattage for a short period of time – ideal for camping or other remote locations. Standby generators are permanently installed outside of your home that will provide backup for days on end. There also exists much larger generators that can power schools, hotels, hospitals, and other sizable buildings.

Why should I get one?

Not only is being without power inconvenient, but it can also be dangerous. Lights, appliances, heat, and air conditioning are just a few necessities you’d have to live without during an outage. Cooking and laundry are out of the question, food can spoil, extreme temperatures will make your home uncomfortable, those who work from home will be disturbed, and if someone living in the home uses medical equipment that requires power you could be in real trouble. But with a backup generator you wouldn’t have to worry about these problems.

How does it work?

An automatic transfer switch is installed, which will disconnect you from utility power when there’s a disruption and the generator will kick on using the home’s electrical panel. It’s usually fueled by a local natural gas supply, liquid propane, or diesel. Once the disruption in service is repaired, the automatic transfer switch will turn off the generator and reconnect you to utility power.

Is there a downside to getting one installed?

Generators can be large and costly, depending on what you want to keep running during an outage. They can also be noisy, disturbing neighbors and potentially violating city ordinances if large enough. If you live on a small lot or in an urban area, installation can be tricky as there are specific codes that require generators to be placed away from doors and flammable materials (usually about five feet). Generators also require a lot of maintenance. The bigger the generator the more upkeep it needs. You want to keep the machine in good condition in order to get you through multiple outages.

If I decide to get one, what should I do?

It’s best to hire a professional. They’re more than qualified to tell you what size you may need, where it can be placed, how it works, and what you need to do to maintain it. Installation also requires advanced knowledge and skills and there are a number of building and electrical codes to follow. If installed incorrectly or standard procedures aren’t followed, generators can put you in danger and cause serious damage to property. Permits and inspections are also necessary, so hiring a professional will relieve you of a lot of headaches.

If you have any other questions about generators or would like to have one installed, feel free to give us a call. You can reach our Newark office at 302-453-4000 and our Georgetown office at 302-856-1006. You can also reach our Service Department at service@nickle.email for more information.

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Let’s start with our old friend the incandescent light bulb. Thomas Edison’s handiwork. Light is created when the tungsten filament inside the bulb is heated by electricity until it glows a warm, yellow light. In 2007 the EISA demanded that incandescent bulbs become more efficient and only emit a certain amount of light per watt. You can buy incandescents with an average of 40-150 watts and the typical bulb burns out after about 1,000 hours or one year.

One alternative is the halogen, which is still an incandescent light bulb but with halogen gas trapped in the filament. Halogen gas helps to recycle the tungsten back into the filament, making this bulb a big more efficient. This gas isn’t hazardous and is a great alternative for consumers who are ready to take the first step towards energy-efficient lighting. Halogens range from about 30-72-watts and last the same as an incandescent bulb – about 1,000 hours or one year.

Let’s go to the opposite end of the spectrum and focus on light-emitting diodes or LEDs. With only 4-22-watts on average these bulbs can last up to 50,000 hours. Energy is released in the form of photons (light) when electrons and their counterpart, electron holes, come together. Because the wattage is so small compared to incandescent bulbs, LEDs are significantly more energy-efficient and cost-effective. You can save an average of $250 for each incandescent bulb you replace with an LED. And yes, 50,000 hours equates to decades upon decades of use. These standards are created by the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES), which creates the testing procedures manufacturers use for LEDs. Because these bulbs haven’t been around long enough to substantiate these claims, there are some skeptics. But many manufacturers provide warranties.

Compact fluorescent lights came into play before LEDs but aren’t quite as popular, though they are equally as energy-efficient. You probably recognize them as the swirl-shaped bulb. CFLs tend to have a very harsh, white light and most aren’t dimmable. It may also take a few second for them to light up after you flip the switch. Using CFLs for short periods at a time can rush their life expectancy and many of them aren’t made for outdoor use. And though it’s a very small amount, CFLs do contain mercury, which creates potential for pollution if not disposed of properly. But technology improves every day and new, better features for CFLs have been introduced over the past few years. Their life expectancy falls in between incandescent and LED, sitting at about 10,000 hours. Despite their flaws, these bulbs are a great alternative when you want to save money and energy.

Just like nutritional facts on food, the Federal Trade Commission requires manufacturers to put a lighting facts label on their packaging, which contains information like lumens, wattage, yearly cost of the bulb, color, temperature, etc. Remember, wattage is how much power the bulb will use and lumens are how much light the bulb puts out. The more lumens per watt, the more energy-efficient the bulb is.

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So before you head out the door, make sure you’ve followed these 13 important steps to keep your home safe while you’re away. There are few things worse than coming home to a disaster after a fantastic holiday.

1. Make sure all doors and windows are locked, including outbuildings, doggy doors, and the garage door. Criminals can scan electronic garage door openers to get in.

2. Try to make your house look like someone is living there – leave some of the blinds open, install and set up timers for outdoor lights, stop your newspaper and mail delivery so it doesn’t pile up, make sure your trash/recycle is brought out and taken in by someone you know, if it’s going to snow then arrange for someone to shovel, and maybe have a neighbor park in your driveway.

3. Turn your heat down, somewhere around 55-60 degrees, to conserve energy but save your pipes from freezing.

4. Turn off your water supply to minimize flood concerns.

5. Unplug unnecessary appliances like the toaster, TVs, computers, coffee machine, etc. It will save energy and protect your house in case of an electrical emergency. If you do want to leave anything plugged in, consider purchasing a surge protector.

6. Keep valuables in a safe place, especially personal and financial information as identity theft is on the rise.

7. You also might want to call your credit card companies and make them aware of your travel plans. If they see a charge out of your normal area it could raise a red flag.

8. Get rid of perishables in the refrigerator. You don’t want to come home to a smelly house.

9. Provide family, friends, and/or neighbors with your itinerary and contact information. You want to make sure they can reach you in case of emergency and they’ll know of your whereabouts in case something happens to you. You can also provide them with a spare key if you trust them to enter your house and check in.

10. Make arrangements for your pets. If you’re leaving them at home consider pet-proofing the house because they may act differently while you’re gone – put away things that may injure them, put anything up high that you don’t want them to get into, and protect fragile items. If you’re sending your pet(s) to a kennel or sitter make sure they also know when you’re picking them up and what your contact information is.

11. Make sure your plants are taken care of also – they’re living things, just like your pets!

12. If you’re going to be away for an extensive period of time, pay any bills that might be due while you’re gone.

13. And if you’re a bit paranoid, ask your community police watch service or the local police to swing by your house on a regular basis.

The post Prepare your home for a trip: 13 things to do before you travel appeared first on Nickle Electrical Companies.

The increasingly popular movement of “going green” doesn’t only encompass electric cars, forgoing bottled water, printing less, and buying smart. There are multitudes of ways to reduce your carbon footprint. The following seven energy-efficient tips will not only better the earth, but also put a little “green” back into your pocket.

Unplug

Have you finished toasting your bagel and pouring that cup of coffee this morning? Is your cell phone battery fully charged? Unplug these appliances and electronics. Even though they may be off and not in use, these devices still use electricity.

Check Labels

More and more consumer products are striving to earn the Energy Star label. This symbol is placed on products that meet government-supported energy-efficient criteria such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants. These labels make it easy for consumers to identify “green” products.

Upgrade

LED light bulbs can last more than 10 times longer than an incandescent 60-watt bulb. They reduce energy use by up to 80 percent and also have lower carbon dioxide emissions. While they may cost more to begin with, the money saved on energy and the amount of bulbs you purchase in general is well worth it.

Go Natural

Try keeping blinds and shutters open throughout the day. Let natural sunlight brighten your home or office before flipping the switch. If or when you turn on the lights make sure you turn them off when you don’t need them. It may sound simple but it’s surprising how many people will keep the lights on when it’s unnecessary. If you (or most likely your teenagers) happen to be forgetful, use timers to power down automatically.

Use Shade/Fans

While natural light can save electricity, it can also quickly heat up your home. Closing the blinds on the sunny side of your house during the day can prevent the air conditioner from overworking during the summer. Utilizing ceiling fans can also help cool a room and reduce the need for constantly running AC.

Seal and Insulate

Your heater or air conditioner may also run unnecessarily if your home contains air leaks. Identifying and sealing these outflows, normally found around doors and windows, will prevent your appliances from overworking.

Improve Your Laundry Routine

High efficiency (HE) and front-loading washers conserve energy and save money compared to regular top-loaders. They can cut electricity and water use almost in half. Though some clothes are best washed in warm or hot water, washing with cold water is also more efficient.

These simple and effective guidelines can all be implemented on your own. But there are plenty of other ways Nickle Electrical can help. We offer energy saving solutions such as occupancy sensors, lighting controls, dimming, daylight harvesting, LED fixture upgrades, and tenant space metering. Nickle can also help install ceiling fans and solar energy components.

For more information about how Nickle can help you “go green” and save money, please call our Newark office at 302-453-4000 or our Georgetown office at 302-856-1006.

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While these pyrotechnics are somewhat of a symbol of America’s independence, they are incredibly dangerous and should not be set off without taking the necessary precautions. Many fail to understand the associated risks to lighting fireworks – severe burns, fires, and even death.

According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission 200 people on average go to the emergency room every day in the month surrounding the Fourth of July with fireworks-related injuries. See the infographic below, courtesy of the USCPSC, for an overview of these dangers. Even seemingly harmless items such as sparklers can burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees, hot enough to melt certain metals. Remember, fireworks are illegal in Delaware so click here for a list of professional shows and other Independence Day activities.

Have a happy and safe holiday.

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And don’t forget, Nickle Electrical is here for you. Discover the Power of Quality.

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WELCOME SUMMER!

Summer is officially here and many of us are spending more and more time outside as the weather warms up. Keep in mind that there are a number of safety concerns you should be aware of while in the sun, whether you’re lounging or working. Some of you may believe these tips are no-brainers, but it’s better to be safe than sorry and it won’t hurt to brush up on a few. Follow these guidelines and best practices in order to keep yourself and others unharmed.

Mowing the grass

This chore is performed on a regular basis during the summer months. Not only does it keep your lawn healthy, it’s also aesthetically pleasing – which your neighbors certainly appreciate. But this task can be extremely dangerous if not done the proper way. Over 200,000 people are injured every year due to lawn mower-related accidents. Be sure to get to know the machine you’re using, the controls on a mower can vary depending on the type or brand you’re using. Before beginning the cut, clear the yard of any debris – rocks, toys, tools, etc. Protective equipment should always be worn while mowing the grass. This includes sturdy, closed-toed shoes, appropriate eyewear or safety goggles, long pants, and ear protection. All of these will protect you from the sharp blades and constant loud noise of the mower, along with any flying debris you may have missed. Never leave the mower on while unattended and keep up regular maintenance on the equipment so it stays in tip-top shape.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 155 people died in 2012 as a result of extreme heat conditions. Both heat exhaustion and heat stroke occur when you are exposed to high temperatures, particularly when combined with high humidity and strenuous activities. Sweating causes dehydration and overheating of the body. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include pale and moist skin, muscle cramps, dizziness, headache, and weakness. Heat stroke is a more dangerous life-threatening condition and symptoms include confusion or hallucinations, flushed skin, hyperventilation, and a bodily temperature of 105 degrees or higher. During heat stroke, your internal cooling system, controlled by the brain, ceases to work. This rise in temperature and lack of internal cooling can cause damage to your organs, including the brain. It’s essential to avoid strenuous activity while it’s extremely hot and humid, and also stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Along the same lines, never leave a child or a pet in the car on a hot day, no matter how quick you think you can run your errand. On an 80-degree day, a car can warm up to 110 degrees in just 10 minutes. According to kidsandcars.org, 49 kids were killed due to heat stroke in 2010. A pet or a child may become overheated in just a matter of minutes.

Look out for underground utility wires

Gardening, planting trees, and other lawn care activities usually require digging. But electrical wires and circuits are usually placed underground to protect the lines from damaging weather elements. While national codes dictate how deep these lines should be buried, mistakes are sometimes made and natural erosion could cause the lines to rise. Even some low voltage circuits could be as shallow as 18 inches. To avoid potential shock hazards, many organizations map and record locations of all underground lines, so keep a look out for those signs. If you’re unsure, check with your local utility company before digging too deep.

Wear sunscreen and bug spray

The summer sun emits the strongest UV rays during the hours of 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Apply sunscreen approximately 15 minutes before heading outside so it has time to settle and wear SPF 15 or higher. Apply sunscreen even on cloudy days because those UV rays can still break through. Not only are mosquitoes and ticks a nuisance, they also carry dangerous germs and diseases such as West Nile Virus and Lyme Disease, so be sure to use bug repellant to deter these pests. After being outside for an extended period of time, especially in a wooded area, check yourself, others, and even your pets for ticks.

Pool safety

Playing in the water is one of the most refreshing summer activities, but it can also be very hazardous. Young children should always be supervised near the water, whether it’s by you or a certified lifeguard. Make sure you or someone else is close enough to the pool to be able to reach a child within a few seconds in case something happens. Gates surrounding a pool should always be closed and locked to prevent any wanderers from accidentally falling in. If you have a baby pool in the backyard, don’t forget to empty it when the children are done playing. Youngsters can drown in only a few inches of water. Pay attention to safety rules posted around the pool, which may include no running on the deck, no diving into shallow water, avoid filters, don’t drink from glass bottles on the pool deck, and be aware of where the first aid kit is kept.

Following all of these tips and guidelines will ensure that you have a safe and happy summer. It only takes one accident to spoil a great season.

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