Published on
July 13th, 2023
Fire Hazards in Apartment Buildings: Avoid Danger with These Electrical Upgrades to Pre-War Buildings
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 It was a significant loss and highlighted the risks of outdated electrical systems and inadequate safety knowledge.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
Published on
June 29th, 2023
Single vs. Three-Phase Electricity: Why Pre-War Condo and Co-Op Buildings Need Electrical Upgrades
From the Dakota to the San Remo, New York City has an extensive supply of properties built before 1939, some dating back to the 1880s. Pre-war properties are desirable; current demands mean hefty rental fees for updated residences. Too many pre-war buildings use outdated single-phase electricity. This system offers an inadequate and inconsistent power supply,
Published on
June 15th, 2023
Want To Find the Perfect Temperature? Smart Thermostats for Heating Systems Are the Answer
With New York aiming for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions, property owners are in need of tools that help them meet new climate regulations. While significant investments, such as solar panels and upgraded HVAC systems, can help, many owners are looking for less expensive ways to make a difference. Enter the smart thermostat. With numerous features
Published on
June 1st, 2023
Electrical and Lighting Trends for 2023: The Latest Looks and Technology for Condo and Co-Op Residents
Most designers agree that lighting is among the most vital design elements in common areas and personal spaces. If you want your property to feel warm and inviting, lighting and electricity play a significant role. Besides light’s ability to change the vibe of an area, the convenience of outlets contributes to a space’s functionality. As
Published on
May 18th, 2023
The Most Common Complaints About Electricity in NYC Apartment Buildings: Avoid These Frequent Condo and Co-Op Problems
Success as a property owner in NYC is about keeping tenants happy and obeying building codes and regulations. While this prospect may sound easy in theory, the execution is challenging, especially considering the age of many buildings. Many buildings are pre-war and require significant upgrades to most systems, including the electrical. Some of the most
Published on
May 4th, 2023
What Happens When Lightning Strikes a Building? Lightning Rods, Conduction, and Grounding Explained
As one of the oldest observed natural phenomena, lighting is intense, beautiful, and terrifying. The basic mechanics of the sky-born discharge are easy enough to comprehend — air is an insulator for areas of positive and negative charges, which build until they reach a level that breaks down the insulator, causing a rapid discharge of
Published on
April 20th, 2023
Worried About the Cost of Electricity in New York City? Save Money with These Energy-Conserving Tips
In March 2023, the cost of electricity in New York City was an average of $0.21, less than the national average of $0.23. Despite the difference, New Yorkers spent more on average year-over-year on annual energy costs, 14% higher than the national average. NYC’s demand on the grid is part of the reason for new
Published on
April 6th, 2023
How Much Electricity Do Appliances Use? How To Measure Electricity Usage for Energy Cost Savings
Appliances and other electronics contribute to rising utility costs, but property owners can cut and control these expenses with proper management and investment. The key to managing expenses is learning about energy consumption. How much electricity do appliances use on your property? Breaking down consumption patterns lets property owners assess kilowatt-hours and annual expenses of
Published on
March 23rd, 2023
The NYC Grid System: How You Can Help the City Reduce Electrical Grid Strain and Improve Sustainability
With the passing of Local Law 97, property managers must prioritize environmental initiatives and upgrades by 2024 or risk penalties and fines. Compliance with the new law is part of the state and city’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050. Without essential changes, the NYC grid system risks significant power strain
Published on
March 9th, 2023
The LED Light Bulb Revolution: How LED Bulbs Can Improve the Energy Efficiency and Appearance of Your Building
If you own or manage properties in New York City, you probably spend a fortune on light bulbs. But it doesn’t have to be that way. New LED bulb technology is leading a light bulb revolution. You can save money and make any building look better by using LED bulbs instead of conventional incandescent ones.