Winter causes a surge in electrical demands. The shorter days up lighting usage, hot water and heating create surges in the system, and tenants using space heaters or heated blankets increases in-unit needs. On top of the increased demand, New York City faces an energy shortage because of the Peaker Rule, which is forcing emergency
In any given year, the FDNY may respond to over 300,000 fire and non-fire emergencies. In addition to causing potential loss of life, the damage is devastating to property owners in the city. In the U.S., fire damage results in billions of dollars in financial losses. Electrical fires are the most common cause of residential
As a building owner in New York City, you likely notice that the winter brings many problems, including apparent electrical issues. Whether all cold-weather electrical problems result from temperature is debatable, but no one can deny that the weather exacerbates the situation. Some things are out of your control as an owner, but others may
A smart home is not sentient. Rather, it is an amalgamation of various devices and tools that integrate into a singular network to offer residents more control and dominion over their environment. Smart devices comprise a broad category. You can incorporate anything from security systems and thermostats to washers and dryers. As a property owner,
Reviewing energy bills throughout the year is often demoralizing for tenants and landlords. The costs may vary monthly, but you cannot deny that winter and summer create the most expense. Still, which season is responsible for the greater expense? Does heating cost more than cooling? Generally, heating a property in New York City is more
As of March 7, 2023, about 158,000 electric vehicles were on the streets of New York City, with the number expected to increase over the next decade. The trend is the same across the country, with more than 320,000 EVs sold in the first quarter of 2023, 60% over the same period in 2022. With
New York City continues to make strides toward a zero-emissions future, and part of that process requires developing a smart electrical grid system. Smart meters are essential tools in the development of the new grid. The city is asking residents and building owners to permit device installations. This request creates questions about smart meters and
As a property owner, the beauty and security of your buildings matter. New York City is full of architecturally significant structures. During the day, it is easy to appreciate the buildings and feel safe, but without adequate lighting, they lose their beauty and sense of security at night. Exterior lighting design is a crucial aspect
Property owners sometimes have hopes of saving money with do-it-yourself solutions. Unfortunately, not all DIY strategies actually are cost-effective — in fact, many can cost a building owner more than hiring a professional to begin with. Electrical work is particularly risky. A DIY light switch installation is a seemingly minimalist project that appears easy on
In January 2022, an electrical fire at Twin Parks North West in Fordham Heights claimed 17 lives. It was a significant loss and highlighted the risks of outdated electrical systems and inadequate safety knowledge. Many New York City buildings are pre-war structures with electrical infrastructure that predate current codes. Property owners must prioritize electrical upgrades