Following the austerities of 2020, many Americans are embracing the 2021 holiday season with renewed enthusiasm. However, as we return to our beloved traditions and festivities, it’s important to remember safety and take precautions where necessary. Read these six tips for keeping yourself and your loved ones safe this holiday season. Read more

There are many factors to consider when planning your home’s landscape. You need to determine what varieties of plants will thrive, how the topography of your lot can best be utilized and, of course, what your budget will permit. When imagining a landscaping project, we often envision what the garden will be like during the daytime, but it’s equally important to consider how your property will look at night. Choosing the right exterior lighting will not only enhance your landscape’s beauty, it’ll also make your home safer. Read more

It’s that time of year again—time to deck the halls (or, more accurately, the walls of your home) with holiday lights and décor. While this is a great way to celebrate the season, it’s important to take precautions when decorating your home exterior. If you aren’t careful, you could potentially injure yourself or create unsafe conditions on your property. To avoid problems, follow these safety tips: Read more

With PG&E’s Public Safety Power Shutoffs affecting millions in Northern California this year, many residents are now searching for alternative methods for powering their homes. Some have turned to portable generators. Although they’re relatively inexpensive, generators consume gasoline, produce noise and fumes, and require regular maintenance to run reliably. For a more permanent and environmentally-friendly solution, some homeowners are investigating solar power. But not all solar systems will provide electricity in the event of a power outage, so it’s important to do your homework before making a decision. Read more

Interior lighting design isn’t as simple as it might seem. It’s not just about maximizing visibility—it’s also about creating the right ambience, optimizing functionality and lowering energy costs. Whether you’re remodeling your home or you just want to make a few upgrades, a carefully considered design can help you make the most of your interior lighting. Here are a few tips: Read more

Even though Bay Area residents are known for embracing the newest gadgets and technology, homes in the region tend to be on the older side—in fact, nearly half of all units in San Francisco were built before 1940. Some of these older homes still have their original wiring and electrical panels, which can be problematic or even dangerous as the electrical requirements of a household grow. Read more

In recent years, you’ve likely noticed the proliferation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at shopping centers, commercial workspaces and other public places. However, did you know EV charging stations are also increasing in prevalence as a residential feature? To learn more about residential EV charging stations, we spoke to Shelby Kromer of Got Watts Electric & Solar in Pleasant Hill. Read more