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The Importance of GFCI Outlets in Your Home

April 11, 2025/in Blog/by Marianne Bernardo

Electrical safety should always be a top priority, especially in areas of your home where water and electricity are in close proximity. That’s where GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets come in. At Wicks Electric, we regularly help homeowners across Vancouver upgrade to GFCI outlets to ensure their homes are up to code and protected against electrical […]

Preparing for Increased A/C and Fan Usage with Proper Electrical Maintenance

April 9, 2025/in Blog/by Marianne Bernardo

As the temperatures rise in spring, many homeowners begin relying more on air conditioning units and fans to keep their spaces cool. However, before you crank up the A/C or run ceiling fans around the clock, it’s important to ensure your electrical system is prepared for the increased load. At Wicks Electric, we help homeowners […]

The Importance of GFCI Outlets in Your Home

April 11, 2025/in Blog/by Marianne Bernardo

Preparing for Increased A/C and Fan Usage with Proper Electrical Maintenance

April 9, 2025/in Blog/by Marianne Bernardo

Full Sized Blog Element (Big Preview Pic)

The Importance of GFCI Outlets in Your Home

April 11, 2025/in Blog/by Marianne Bernardo

Electrical safety should always be a top priority, especially in areas of your home where water and electricity are in close proximity. That’s where GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets come in. At Wicks Electric, we regularly help homeowners across Vancouver upgrade to GFCI outlets to ensure their homes are up to code and protected against electrical shock hazards.

What Are GFCI Outlets?

GFCI outlets are designed to monitor the flow of electricity and quickly shut off power if they detect any imbalance or leakage—essentially acting as a life-saving device that helps prevent electrical shock. They’re especially important in moisture-prone areas like:

Bathrooms
Kitchens
Laundry rooms
Garages
Basements
Outdoor spaces

Why Are GFCIs So Important?

1. Shock Prevention

Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. GFCIs trip instantly if they sense even the smallest electrical current flowing where it shouldn’t—protecting you and your family from shock or electrocution.

2. Code Compliance

Modern building codes in Vancouver and throughout BC require GFCI outlets in certain parts of the home. If your home doesn’t meet these standards, it could affect your insurance and property value.

3. Fire Prevention

Faulty wiring or moisture exposure can cause electrical arcs that spark fires. GFCI outlets help eliminate this risk by shutting down power immediately when something goes wrong.

4. Easy Testing & Resetting

GFCI outlets come with built-in “test” and “reset” buttons so homeowners can easily check functionality and restore power safely.

Do You Need to Upgrade?

If your home was built before the early 2000s and hasn’t had recent electrical updates, there’s a good chance it’s missing GFCI protection in key areas. Our licensed electricians at Wicks Electric Vancouver can inspect your system and upgrade outdated outlets quickly and affordably.

Why Choose Wicks Electric?

We’re known as one of the best electricians in Vancouver for a reason—our team is prompt, professional, and passionate about electrical safety. We stay up to date on BC’s electrical code requirements and make sure your home meets or exceeds them. Whether you’re renovating or just doing seasonal maintenance, we’ll make sure your outlets are safe and secure.

Ready to upgrade your outlets? Contact Wicks Electric today and book a visit with our trusted electricians. Your safety is our priority!

Preparing for Increased A/C and Fan Usage with Proper Electrical Maintenance

April 9, 2025/in Blog/by Marianne Bernardo

Why Electrical Maintenance Matters

Air conditioners and fans draw significant power, and if your electrical system isn’t in top shape, you could experience overloaded circuits, higher energy bills, or even electrical hazards. Proper maintenance helps prevent issues like tripped breakers, overheating outlets, and inefficient energy use.

Key Electrical Maintenance Steps for Spring

1. Inspect Your Electrical Panel

Your home’s electrical panel is responsible for distributing power efficiently. With increased A/C and fan usage, now is the time to:

Check for tripped breakers or signs of overheating.
Ensure your panel can handle the extra load—older panels may need an upgrade to support modern appliances.
Consider installing a dedicated circuit for high-powered cooling units to avoid system overloads.

2. Test and Upgrade Outlets

With the addition of portable fans and window A/C units, you may be plugging in more devices than usual. To avoid electrical hazards:

Inspect outlets for loose connections, discoloration, or burning smells.
Upgrade to GFCI outlets in moisture-prone areas like basements or near A/C units.
Avoid using multiple extension cords—if you need more power sources, consider adding additional outlets.

3. Clean and Maintain Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans help reduce the need for constant A/C use, lowering energy costs. Prepare them for spring by:

Dusting the blades to prevent debris from spreading in your home.
Checking that the fan rotates counterclockwise for optimal cooling.
Tightening any loose screws or components to prevent wobbling.

4. Schedule an A/C System Inspection

If you use central air conditioning, your HVAC system should be professionally serviced before heavy usage begins. An electrician can:

Ensure your A/C unit is wired correctly and safely.
Verify that capacitors and relays are functioning properly.
Recommend energy-efficient upgrades, such as programmable thermostats.

5. Consider Smart Home Energy Solutions

Smart thermostats and automated cooling systems can optimize energy use by adjusting temperatures based on occupancy. A licensed electrician can install and integrate these systems seamlessly into your home.

Get Spring-Ready with Wicks Electric!

At Wicks Electric, we specialize in ensuring your home’s electrical system is prepared for seasonal changes. If you need an electrical inspection, panel upgrade, or outlet installation, contact our expert team today. Let’s keep your home cool and safe all spring and summer long!

Wicks Electric

4.9

Based on 139 reviews

review us on

Formwest Contractors

18:13 15 Sep 20

We've worked with Wicks Electric on numerous residential and commercial renovations over the years. Their responsiveness and professionalism have always been top shelf. They always deliver a friendly, knowledgable service. We look forward to working with Adam and his crew for many years to come.

Julian Gamble

17:29 11 Aug 20

Excellent quality of work, and incredible electricians. From the administration, to the electricians, everyone was wonderful to chat with and incredibly professional. Highly recommend.

Olaf L.

17:48 16 Jul 20

I highly recommend Wicks Electric. We called Wicks for advice on our condo renovation, and their communication and service were excellent - from the quote right through to scheduling and installation. Everyone at Wicks was friendly, professional and great to work with.

Hal S

22:00 23 Jun 20

Absolutely highly recommend Wicks Electric for your home electrical services. I had two electricians do work in a condo I was renovating and on all 3 separate occasions that I needed service I was extremely pleased with the congenial, knowledgeable and efficient work performed. Again, I highly recommend this company - particularly because of the workers' abilities and friendliness. 5/5 !

Iman Rahmim

19:51 12 May 20

We have been working with Wicks electric for close to three years and they are our go-to electrical contractors for commercial and high end residential jobs. Very detailed and precise, over-the-top clear communication, and most importantly clean job, inside and out. Highly recommended for high end jobs.

Brenda D

17:48 12 May 20

I contacted Wicks for a small job in my condo. The electrician was pleasant, polite, and professional. There was a complication in my job and he didn't hesitate to reach out for help. I would recommend this company without hesitation.

Melanie McCready

20:31 05 May 20

Wicks did a commercial project for me and everything went smoothly. They followed the quote they gave me prior and were able to finish the job in the timeframe that was allotted to get the job done. Overall, will use again and would recommend. A+

Dr. Paul Atkinson

19:20 16 Mar 20

Thankyou to Wicks Electric (especially Cathy and Wyatt) for the wonderful service. I needed some under cabinet lighting repaired. The work was done so efficiently and also very well priced. It is a great feeling to know a trustworthy electrician.

Kristina M

17:24 12 Mar 20

Wicks Electric recently did two small jobs for us (installation of a new lighting fixture and a new bathroom fan). We were really pleased with the whole experience. We received a prompt and courteous response to our initial enquiry and scheduling was easy. The electrician was on time, organized, quick, and we're very pleased with the results - it's great to be able to check these items off our to-do list. I recommend Wicks Electric and will definitely use them again.

Antonio Millares III

21:32 11 Mar 20

I’ve hired Wicks Electric both personally and referred them to general contractors. The result was the same, top-notch customer service and quality. Nothing but good feedback for these guys. If you are looking for a residential or commercial electrical contractor give these guys a shout.

Troy Felix

18:39 11 Mar 20

As the owner of a Vancouver construction management company we have worked with many electrical trades over the past 10 years. I can say that Wicks Electric has been a pleasure to work with and we anticipate working with them for a very long time. Keep up the great work.

Aly Armstrong

17:30 11 Mar 20

Adam & his team are incredible! They helped us with our new office renovation and were always available to help when we needed them. They were very respectful of our space and their service & work exceeded our expectations.

Dimitri Gailit

17:30 11 Mar 20

We needed small electrical work in our new office. We reached out to Wicks electrical and they replied to us with a quote immediately. Not even 24 hours later we had Max in our office installing lights. I was super impressed how fast they came out and completed the job. Max was awesome to work with. Super fast, clean and accurate. It’s not typical of trades to deliver fast and clean work let alone have a guy at your door step that fast. Highly recommend their services.

Jeremy Hessing-Lewis

23:01 31 Jan 20

Wyatt installed baseboard heaters in our ?. He did excellent work at a perfectly fair price. He got everything done surprisingly quickly considering that our children were constantly trying to "help" him. Would call Wicks again without hesitation.

Bernie3000 .

18:24 22 Jan 20

This is the second time we have used Wicks and are we glad we did!

Starting from the first person who answered the phone (Ryan), to Cathy who called back to take my information to schedule the electrician and to the electrician himself (I asked my husband to get his name, but...) who knew exactly what to do and how to do it.

Also, without naming the other company, we were given a quote for the same amount of work for $705! Wicks did it for more than $450 cheaper!

Thank you very much to the team at Wicks! Do not change a thing, unless it is for the better, but really, how can it get much better than Wicks already is?

Riley Goodwin

02:49 22 Jan 20

I was considering using Wick's Electric when I noticed something that made me question the authenticity of their reviews....

Anwar Ansari

03:00 01 Sep 19

Excellent service. I've called Wicks for electrical work on my condo 4 times over the past 3 years and the service has been nothing short of excellent. Wyatt and Dean were both competent and professional and i will definitely call Wicks for any future electrical needs.

Ben Emerson

19:57 31 Aug 19

Unreal guys! Great personalities! And impeccable work! Highly recommend them! 5star

David Kobilke

18:56 30 Aug 19

Wicks was quick to respond to an urgent repair! Wyatt, the electrician who came was efficient, polite and got the job done very quickly. Very reasonable rates. Highly recommend

Maggie Bullen

21:27 07 Aug 19

Absolute legends. Professionals in their field. Dependable guys and gals who provide 5 star service and top notch banter. 10/10 would jump into a boat with them again.

Annette Goliath

00:43 26 Jul 19

Look no further for an Electrician. Right from the start, my interaction with Cathy over the phone made me feel that I made the right decision in choosing Wicks. Cathy was professional, warm and responded quickly. Dean, the Electrician that came to deal with my electrical deficiencies was on time, so nice, professional, explained everything to me and finished the job quickly. I would HIGHLY recommend him, he was wonderful!

Debra DeGaust

02:29 24 Apr 19

I have used Wicks Electric on two occasions and found them to be excellent. I will definitely be recommending them to my friends and my family. Debra Degaust.

jeff heywood

03:19 10 Apr 19

Great experience with Wicks. Quick return on my phone call, estimate was accurate, and electrician showed up right on time. We discussed the work and all implications before anything started then Bill just got it done. Totally great experience all around and next job I have I won't hesitate to call them back. 100% recommend.

Veronique Nell

20:05 05 Apr 19

Great service and great work.
I've used Wicks twice in the last few years to wire in new ceiling lights and move/replace baseboard heaters. Both times they responded to my inquiry emails before the end of the day and were able to set up an appointment within a week. The work has always been well done and within the time estimates.
I will be using Wicks again next time I need electrical work done.

Myfanwy Loverock

21:36 01 Apr 19

Working as a Design Consultant I am frequently submitting quotations with electricians to get my clients and myself the best work and rates possible.
When working with Wicks you can trust this team will give you the most detailed and honest quotes, and several options depending on your budget and needs.

No matter if you’re doing a brand new commercial build or restoring a heritage coded apartment, you’re in good hands with this wonderful local company.

Transparent Honest very clear communication.
Oh ... and not a bad looking team ?

Sam Wainwright

20:09 07 Feb 19

Adam and his team at Wicks Electric are amazing! We use them on the majority of our renovation projects regardless on how big or small they are. They are reliable, professional & constant. They make us look good! I highly recomend Wicks Electrical for any electrical project you have.

Sincerely,
Sam Wainwright
Refine & Design, Custom Homes & Renovations
Owner & Operator

Samantha O'Grady

23:27 15 Mar 18

Chris is my hero! He was super chill, patient, knowledgeable, and nice to my cats. It was an awesome experience. Thank you for my new fixture and all my now working light switches!

DZT Vibe Spa Whole Body Vibration Fitness

20:52 07 Feb 18

Awesome service, great Crew!! We hired Wicks on two separate occasions and the experience was seamless. They took care of the work necessary with some affordable solutions for our electrical work....These are the people you want in your home or business....Highly recommended!!

Wayne D

20:09 15 Jan 18

It was a great experience using Wick’s. Prior to my appointment, communication with Cathy was prompt and all my questions were answered. On the day of the appointment, at the time of the scheduled arrival, Luke called to say he was running late due to heavy traffic (he only arrived 5 or 10 minutes late from the scheduled start time, so it was no big deal anyway). What great customer service communication! When he arrived, he was courteous, professional and knowledgeable. He offered suggestions to the home issues, but never tried to upsell me. He worked hard all day, even skipping lunch. He finished all of the jobs that were required, in the time that he quoted. Everything works great. I’m so happy that I chose Wicks. I would use them again.

Nancy Lin

22:19 04 Dec 17

Daniela did fantastic work with my chandelier. It was an extremely tough job for one person - just getting the 15 ft ladder set up on her own was a project in itself! (I live in a loft with 17 ft ceilings.) I very much appreciated how respectful and efficient Daniela was, despite those challenges. I will be sure to recommend Wicks to family and friends for all of our electrical needs.

Navin Ramani

03:30 25 Oct 17

I engaged Wicks Electric to install custom lighting fixtures for my design project - LED alcove lights, wall sconces, pendants, and chandeliers. I was extremely pleased by their professional service! Their team were challenged with mounting a large 11 foot chandelier on a 22 foot high ceiling and Jacob executed the job seamlessly! It made my whole experience stress free. I highly recommend Wicks Electric for their highly qualified, experienced and friendly service!

More reviews

Wicks Electric

1 week ago

Massy Books is looking lit!Our team had the pleasure of installing custom lighting in this beautiful Vancouver bookstore, creating the perfect glow for readers and dreamers alike. Thoughtful design meets expert execution - just the way we like it.#LightingTheWay⚡ ... See MoreSee Less

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Half Sized Blog Element (Single Author Style)

Half Sized Blog Element (Multi Author Style)

The Importance of GFCI Outlets in Your Home

Preparing for Increased A/C and Fan Usage with Proper Electrical Maintenance

The Importance of GFCI Outlets in Your Home

Preparing for Increased A/C and Fan Usage with Proper Electrical Maintenance

Full Sized Blog Element (Big Preview Pic)

The Importance of GFCI Outlets in Your Home

What Are GFCI Outlets?

Why Are GFCIs So Important?

1. Shock Prevention

2. Code Compliance

3. Fire Prevention

4. Easy Testing & Resetting

Do You Need to Upgrade?

Why Choose Wicks Electric?

Preparing for Increased A/C and Fan Usage with Proper Electrical Maintenance

Why Electrical Maintenance Matters

Key Electrical Maintenance Steps for Spring

1. Inspect Your Electrical Panel

2. Test and Upgrade Outlets

3. Clean and Maintain Ceiling Fans

4. Schedule an A/C System Inspection

5. Consider Smart Home Energy Solutions

Get Spring-Ready with Wicks Electric!

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