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At Gloudeman Electric, we take pride in delivering safe, reliable electrical services to homeowners and businesses in Mount Pleasant and the greater Charleston area. Unfortunately, not every electrician holds themselves to the same standard.

Recently, we were called to a job where a homeowner was experiencing electrical issues and safety concerns with a newly installed system. What we found was shocking—serious electrical hazards that put both the home and its residents at risk.


What Went Wrong?

The previous "electrician" had made several dangerous mistakes, including:

  • Using Non-Burial Wire Underground – Electrical wiring installed underground must be rated for direct burial or run through properly sealed conduit. In this case, the wrong type of wire was used, leaving it vulnerable to moisture, damage, and eventual failure.

  • Improperly Sleeving Conduit – Instead of ensuring the conduit was fully sealed, it had gaps that allowed water to enter the circuit. This can lead to shorts, corrosion, and even electrocution hazards.

  • Electrical Tape Overload – Instead of correctly cutting and fitting conduit, the installer used excessive amounts of electrical tape to cover a hole—an unsafe and unprofessional shortcut.

These are just a few of the issues we uncovered. Unfortunately, this kind of poor workmanship isn't uncommon when homeowners hire unlicensed or inexperienced electricians.


The Importance of Hiring a Licensed Electrician

Electrical work is not an area where you want to cut corners. Faulty wiring and improper installations can lead to power failures, electrical fires, and serious safety hazards. That’s why it's crucial to:


Confirm Licensing – In South Carolina, licensed electricians are required to meet certain qualifications and adhere to strict safety standards. If you're hiring an electrician, ask for their license number and verify it on the LLR of SC website.

Check Reviews & References – A reputable electrician will have positive customer reviews and a track record of quality work. Take the time to read testimonials and Google reviews.

Look for Professionalism – A qualified electrician will use proper materials, follow code requirements, and ensure their work is safe and durable. If something seems rushed or “patched together,” it’s a red flag.


Gloudeman Electric: Your Trusted Local Electricians

We take our jobs seriously because we know that our work impacts your home, your safety, and your peace of mind. When you hire Gloudeman Electric, you can trust that we’ll get the job done right the first time.

Want to see what poor electrical work looks like? Check out some of the videos from this job below to understand why hiring a licensed professional matters.

If you need electrical work done right, contact us today for a consultation. We’re here to provide safe, professional, and high-quality electrical services for your home or business.



Improperly sleeved conduit allowing water entry

Poor electrical running



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For homeowners in the Charleston and Mount Pleasant areas, upgrading to smart home features doesn’t have to mean a full automation overhaul. Caseta smart lighting systems offer an affordable and practical way to enjoy the benefits of modern technology without the complexity or cost of more extensive solutions. Whether you’re enhancing your lighting or adding convenient controls, Caseta makes it simple to bring smart functionality to your home. (No, this isn't an ad, we just believe in the product!!)

Lutron Caseta switch installed on wall
Image courtesy of CNET

Here’s a closer look at what makes them a great choice if you've been considering home automation, dimming, or multi-location switching.


Affordable and Convenient Home Automation

Caseta systems are one of the most straightforward ways to get started with home automation. They don’t require major rewiring, making them a budget-friendly option. Once installed, you can control your lights and other devices through an app or with voice commands, bringing modern convenience to your home.


Customize Your Lighting

Lighting plays a huge role in setting the tone of a space. With Caseta dimmers, you can easily adjust the brightness to fit the moment—whether you’re relaxing with a book, watching a movie, or hosting friends. The dimmers work with a variety of bulbs, giving you flexibility to match your current setup.



Add Switches Without the Hassle

One of the standout features of Caseta systems is their ability to create three-way switches without the need for additional wiring. This is especially useful in areas like stairwells or hallways, where controlling lights from multiple locations adds convenience. Instead of running new electrical lines, we can replace an existing switch with a Caseta switch, and then install a companion wireless switch in your desired location (it looks exactly like a regular wall switch), accomplishing multi-location switching at a fraction of the cost of running new electrical.



Flexible and Expandable

Caseta systems are designed to grow with your needs. You can start with one room and expand to other parts of your home over time. They also integrate with other smart home platforms, like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, so it’s easy to sync them with devices you may already use.

Caseta lutron wall unit installed, finger pressing dimming button
Image courtesy of CNET


A Practical Upgrade

Whether you’re looking to improve the functionality of your home or add a touch of convenience, Caseta systems offer an effective and affordable way to do it. From creating a cozy atmosphere with dimmable lighting to simplifying everyday routines with smart controls, Caseta brings modern features to any home.


Wondering if a Caseta system is right for your home? Reach out to Gloudeman Electric—we’d love to help you explore your options!

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In today’s world, where energy efficiency and convenience are paramount, homeowners are continually seeking innovative ways to optimize their living spaces. One such innovation that stands out is the installation of motion switches, particularly in areas like bathrooms, hallways, and garages. At Gloudeman Electric, we believe that understanding the benefits of motion switches can help you create a more efficient and user-friendly home. Let’s explore the advantages of adding these smart devices to your residential spaces.


Bathroom with LED strip lights, red rug and dark blue wallpaper


1. Energy Efficiency

One of the most significant benefits of motion switches is their ability to save energy. Traditional light switches require manual operation, often leading to lights being left on longer than necessary. Motion switches, on the other hand, automatically turn lights on when someone enters a room and off when the room is unoccupied. This feature not only reduces energy consumption but also lowers your electricity bills over time. In spaces like bathrooms, where lights may be left on for extended periods, the savings can add up.


2. Convenience and Ease of Use

Imagine walking into a dark bathroom and having the lights turn on automatically as you enter. Motion switches eliminate the hassle of fumbling for a light switch with your hands full or when your vision is impaired by the darkness. This convenience is particularly beneficial for families with children or elderly members who may have difficulty reaching traditional switches. With motion switches, everyone can enjoy a well-lit space without the extra effort.


Lutron occupancy sensor

3. Enhanced Safety

Safety is a top priority in any home. Motion switches can enhance safety by ensuring that areas like stairways, hallways, and bathrooms are well-lit when needed. This reduces the risk of trips and falls, especially in high-traffic areas.


4. Smart Home Integration

As technology continues to advance, many motion switches can now be integrated into smart home systems. This means you can control them remotely through your smartphone or tablet, allowing for even greater flexibility and energy management. You can program them to activate at specific times or adjust their sensitivity based on your preferences, creating a customized experience that fits your lifestyle.


5. Environmental Benefits

By reducing energy consumption, motion switches contribute to a more sustainable home. The less energy you use, the smaller your carbon footprint becomes. This environmentally friendly approach aligns with many homeowners' goals to create a greener living space while saving money.


Lights underneath bathroom cabinet. Occupancy sensor on wall, with white rug on floor

6. Seamless Installation

At Gloudeman Electric, we understand that home improvements can sometimes feel daunting. Fortunately, installing motion switches is a straightforward process that can often be completed in just a few hours. Our skilled electricians can help you choose the right type of motion switch for your needs and ensure that it is installed safely and correctly.


Conclusion

Incorporating motion switches into your home offers numerous advantages, from energy savings and enhanced convenience to increased safety and environmental benefits. Whether you’re looking to modernize your bathroom, brighten up your hallways, or improve safety in your garage, motion switches are an excellent solution.


If you’re interested in exploring the installation of motion switches or other electrical upgrades in your home, contact Gloudeman Electric today. Our experienced team is here to help you create a more efficient, convenient, and safe living environment. Let’s illuminate your home together!

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