How to Childproof Your Home Electrics

Buying a new home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. While most buyers focus on kitchens, bathrooms and overall layout, it’s just as important to check the condition of the electrics . Hidden faults can lead to unexpected costs, safety issues and major inconvenience after you move in. At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors , we regularly help homebuyers across Berkshire assess the safety of a property’s electrical system. Here’s what you should check before signing on the dotted line. 1. How Old Is the Consumer Unit? The consumer unit (also known as the fuse box) is a key indicator of the overall condition of a property’s electrics. A modern unit should have RCD protection , labelled circuits, and comply with the latest regulations. If the unit looks outdated – for example, it has rewireable fuses or lacks RCDs – this could mean the system is 20+ years old and may need upgrading for safety and compliance. 2. When Was the Last Electrical Inspection? Ask the seller for a recent Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) . This is a professional assessment of the entire electrical system, highlighting any damage, wear or non-compliance. If there isn’t a recent EICR available, you may want to have one carried out before exchanging contracts – especially in older properties. We offer pre-purchase electrical inspections for peace of mind. 3. Check for Visible Issues During your viewing, keep an eye out for signs that the electrics might need attention: Loose or cracked sockets and switches Old-fashioned light switches or fittings Extension leads being used in place of proper outlets Flickering lights or buzzing sounds from switches While these issues may seem minor, they can point to bigger problems beneath the surface. 4. Think About Modern Living Needs Older homes may not have enough sockets, circuits or capacity for modern life – especially if you’re planning to work from home, install a heat pump, or charge an electric car. You may also want to upgrade to smart lighting or energy-efficient solutions. Knowing in advance whether the system can cope with future upgrades helps you plan and budget accordingly. Book a Pre-Purchase Electrical Check At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we offer friendly, professional advice and thorough electrical checks for homebuyers across Berkshire. Whether you're unsure about the condition of the wiring or want a second opinion on the fuse box, we can help you make an informed decision. Get in touch today to book a homebuyer electrical survey or to speak to a member of our expert team.

Lighting plays a big role in the comfort, efficiency and style of your home – but with so many options available, how do you know what’s best? At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we often get asked whether it’s worth switching to LED lighting or sticking with traditional bulbs. In short: LED wins hands down – and here’s why. 1. Energy Efficiency LED (light-emitting diode) bulbs are far more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent or halogen bulbs. An LED uses up to 80–90% less electricity to produce the same amount of light, making a noticeable difference to your energy bills.  For example, a 5W LED can produce the same brightness as a 40W incandescent bulb – saving energy without sacrificing light quality. 2. Longer Lifespan One of the biggest benefits of LED lighting is its lifespan. While a traditional bulb might last 1,000 hours , an LED can last up to 25,000 to 50,000 hours . That means fewer replacements, less waste and less hassle. In real terms, that’s years of reliable lighting – even in busy areas like kitchens and bathrooms. 3. Better for the Environment Thanks to their low energy consumption and long life, LEDs are much more environmentally friendly. They reduce your carbon footprint and don’t contain hazardous materials like mercury, which is found in some compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). Switching your home to LED lighting is one of the simplest ways to make your household greener. 4. Design Flexibility and Features Modern LED lighting is incredibly versatile. You can choose from: Warm or cool tones Dimmable options Smart bulbs that connect to apps or voice control Colour-changing LEDs for mood lighting They’re also available in a wide range of fittings, making it easy to upgrade existing fixtures or create a completely new look. 5. Are There Any Downsides? The only real downside to LEDs used to be the cost – but prices have dropped significantly in recent years. While LEDs may still cost more upfront than older-style bulbs, the energy savings and long lifespan make them far more cost-effective in the long run. Ready to Upgrade Your Lighting? If you’re considering making the switch to LED lighting or planning a lighting upgrade as part of a renovation, we’re here to help. At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we offer expert advice and professional installation across Berkshire – whether you want a full home lighting makeover or just to swap out old bulbs safely. Get in touch today for a no-obligation quote or to discuss your lighting needs.

With electric vehicles (EVs) becoming more popular across the UK, many homeowners are looking to install EV chargers at home for faster, more convenient charging. If you’ve recently bought an electric car or are planning to, it’s important to understand what’s involved in getting a charger installed. At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we regularly install EV chargers across Berkshire and the surrounding areas. Here’s what you need to know before getting started. 1. Why Install a Home EV Charger? While you can charge an EV using a standard 3-pin plug, it’s not ideal. It’s slow, inefficient, and not designed for regular high-load charging. A dedicated home EV charger is: Much faster (typically 7kW vs 2.4kW from a 3-pin plug) Safer for regular use More energy efficient Often controllable via an app to schedule charging during off-peak times Installing a proper charger makes charging your vehicle as simple as plugging in overnight. 2. Is My Home Suitable? Most homes with off-street parking (like a driveway or garage) are suitable for an EV charger. You'll need: A suitable wall or post to mount the charger Access to your consumer unit Adequate electrical capacity Before any installation, we carry out a site survey to check your existing electrical system can support a charger safely. If your consumer unit is outdated, we may recommend an upgrade before installation. 3. Choosing the Right Charger There are a range of EV chargers available in the UK, from simple plug-and-go units to smart chargers that work with solar panels, track your energy use and allow you to control charging from your phone. We’ll help you choose a charger that suits your vehicle, budget and lifestyle – and we install chargers compatible with all major EV brands. 4. What Does Installation Involve? Installation usually takes half a day. We: Assess and test your electrical system Install the charger neatly and safely Fully test the unit Provide certification and user guidance All our installations are fully compliant with the latest wiring regulations and come with certification for your peace of mind. Ready to Go Electric? If you’re ready to make the switch to electric, make sure your home is ready too. At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we offer professional EV charger installations across Berkshire, with expert advice and reliable service. Contact us today to book a free survey or to discuss your EV charging options.

Smart home technology is becoming a standard feature in modern UK homes. From voice-controlled lighting to app-based heating systems and video doorbells, smart upgrades can increase convenience, boost security and help manage energy use. But before diving into the world of smart devices, it’s essential to ask: are your home electrics ready? At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we regularly help homeowners across Berkshire get their properties smart-home ready. Here’s what you need to consider before installing the latest tech. 1. Check the Condition of Your Consumer Unit Before installing any smart technology, your consumer unit (or fuse box) must be up to date. Older units without RCD protection may not support newer smart systems safely. If your consumer unit still has rewireable fuses or you haven’t had an inspection in the last 10 years, now is the time to upgrade. A modern consumer unit ensures your home’s circuits can handle the extra demands smart devices may bring, and more importantly, it offers better protection from electrical faults. 2. Do You Have Enough Circuits and Power? Smart homes often rely on several new systems such as Wi-Fi-connected lighting, smart thermostats, CCTV, or EV chargers . These may need dedicated circuits or additional sockets to operate safely and efficiently. If your existing setup is already running close to capacity, an electrical upgrade might be necessary. A qualified electrician can assess whether your current system has room for expansion and can install additional circuits where needed. 3. Consider Network Infrastructure While not strictly an electrical issue, the backbone of any smart home is a strong and reliable internet connection. If you’re planning to install multiple smart devices, it’s worth thinking about where your routers and extenders will be placed and whether they need power in lofts, garages or outbuildings. We can install sockets or network wiring in hard-to-reach areas to support this. 4. Plan Ahead for Future Tech Even if you’re starting with a couple of smart plugs and a video doorbell, it pays to futureproof your home. Ask us about flexible solutions that will make it easier to add to your system later, like integrated USB sockets, additional data points, or smart-ready lighting circuits. Ready to Upgrade? Whether you're taking your first steps into smart tech or planning a full home automation system, Lighthouse Electrical Contractors can help ensure your electrics are safe, up to standard and ready for the future. We serve homes across Berkshire with trusted advice, high-quality installations and a focus on safety. Get in touch today for a free quote or to arrange a home electrical assessment.

At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we’re often asked about consumer units and why they matter so much in a home’s electrical system. As trusted electricians based in Berkshire with over a decade of experience, we believe every homeowner should have a basic understanding of their consumer unit – what it does, how it protects you, and when it might need updating. What Is a Consumer Unit ? A consumer unit, sometimes called a fuse box or distribution board, is the heart of your home’s electrical system. It distributes electricity from the main supply to different circuits around your property – including lighting, sockets, kitchen appliances and more. You’ll usually find it near your electricity meter, often under the stairs or in a hallway or utility room. Modern consumer units are equipped with safety devices that protect you and your home from electrical faults. These include circuit breakers, RCDs (residual current devices) and sometimes AFDDs (arc fault detection devices), which are designed to prevent electric shocks, fires and damage to appliances. Key Components of a Consumer Unit Main Switch This allows you to turn off all power in your home quickly. It’s vital in an emergency or when electrical work is being carried out. Circuit Breakers (MCBs) These automatically cut the power to a circuit if too much current flows through it, helping to prevent overheating and electrical fires. Residual Current Devices (RCDs) RCDs are essential safety features. They detect when electricity is flowing down an unintended path – such as through a person – and shut off power instantly to reduce the risk of electric shock. RCBOs These combine the features of an MCB and an RCD and offer protection for individual circuits. They are becoming more common in modern consumer unit setups. AFDDs Although not yet mandatory in every property, AFDDs detect potentially dangerous electrical arcs and shut the circuit off before a fire can start. These are especially useful in high-risk areas or vulnerable properties. Why Consumer Units Matter A modern consumer unit plays a crucial role in: Protecting your home and family With safety mechanisms in place, consumer units help prevent electrical fires and protect against electrocution. Meeting UK regulations Consumer units need to comply with the latest wiring regulations, known as BS 7671. Upgrading an old unit can bring your system in line with current safety standards. Supporting new appliances and upgrades If you're installing a new kitchen, electric shower or car charger, your consumer unit may need additional capacity or better protection. When Should You Upgrade? At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we recommend looking at an upgrade if: Your existing fuse box still uses traditional wire fuses There’s no RCD protection in place The electrical system is more than 25 years old You’re renovating, extending or adding new circuits You’ve had an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) that highlights concerns Only a qualified and registered electrician should replace a consumer unit. All our work complies with Part P of the Building Regulations, and we handle notification to building control on your behalf. Trust Lighthouse Electrical Contractors With over a decade of experience and five-star reviews across Berkshire and the surrounding areas, Lighthouse Electrical Contractors are your local experts in consumer unit upgrades, inspections and installations. Whether you're unsure about the state of your existing fuse box or you're planning a home renovation, we’re here to offer honest advice and high-quality workmanship. Contact us today to book a free assessment or to find out more about upgrading your consumer unit.

If your lights keep tripping, it can be frustrating and disruptive. At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we’ve been serving Wokingham and Berkshire for years with expert electrical maintenance and repairs. Here are some common reasons your lights may be tripping and why you should consult a qualified Berkshire electrician.

As the days grow longer and warmer, your garden becomes an extension of your home—a space for relaxation, entertainment, and family gatherings. One of the best ways to enhance the beauty and usability of your outdoor space is through strategic lighting. In this blog, we’ll explore how to transform your garden using lighting, creating a magical ambience and extending the enjoyment of your outdoor area well into the evening. Define Your Goals Before diving into the world of garden lighting, it’s essential to define what you want to achieve. Are you looking to create a cosy atmosphere for nighttime gatherings, highlight specific features of your garden, or improve safety along pathways? Knowing your goals will help guide your lighting choices. Choose the Right Type of Lighting There are several types of outdoor lighting to consider: Pathway Lights : These lights illuminate walkways and driveways, making them safer while adding charm to your garden. Solar-powered options are eco-friendly and easy to install. Spotlights : Use spotlights to highlight specific features like trees, sculptures, or architectural elements. This creates visual interest and draws attention to focal points. String Lights : Perfect for creating a cosy atmosphere, string lights can be draped over patios, trees, or fences. They provide soft lighting and a festive feel, ideal for outdoor parties. Wall Lights : Installing wall-mounted fixtures on your home or garden walls can provide general lighting and enhance the architectural features of your property. Deck and Step Lights : These are essential for safety, providing illumination on stairs and deck edges. They can also add a stylish touch to your outdoor living spaces. Consider Dimming Options Incorporating dimmable lights allows you to adjust the brightness according to the occasion. Whether you want bright lighting for a barbecue or softer lighting for a romantic dinner, dimmable options provide versatility. Use Layers of Light Just like in interior design, layering your lighting creates depth and interest. Combine ambient lighting (general illumination), task lighting (focused light for specific areas), and accent lighting (highlighting features) to achieve a well-balanced effect. Incorporate Smart Lighting Smart lighting systems offer convenience and control. With features like programmable schedules, remote access, and smartphone integration, you can adjust your garden lights from anywhere. You can also set timers to ensure your lights turn on at dusk and off at dawn automatically. Choose Energy-Efficient Options Consider using LED lights for your garden. They are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and come in a variety of styles and colours. Additionally, solar-powered lights are a great eco-friendly option, harnessing the sun’s energy to illuminate your garden. Plan Your Layout Take time to plan where you want to position your lights. Walk around your garden during the day and envision how you want it to look at night. Mark key features you want to highlight and determine the best locations for your lights. A well-thought-out layout will ensure a cohesive look and effective lighting. Professional Installation While some outdoor lighting options can be installed as a DIY project, hiring a qualified electrician from Lighthouse Electrical Contractors ensures your system is safely and correctly installed. Our experienced team can help with complex wiring, positioning lights for maximum effect, and integrating smart technology into your setup. Conclusion Transforming your garden with lighting not only enhances its beauty but also extends its usability, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space throughout the evening. Whether you want to create a cosy atmosphere for family gatherings or highlight the stunning features of your garden, the right lighting can make all the difference. If you need help with your garden lighting project, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Lighthouse Electrical Contractors.

An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is needed to assess the safety of your property's electrical wiring and installations, identifying potential hazards like faulty wiring, damaged sockets, or overloaded circuits, which could lead to electric shocks or fires, thus protecting occupants and ensuring compliance with safety regulations, especially if you are a landlord renting out a property; essentially, it's a way to proactively check if your electrical system is safe to use. Key reasons to get an EICR: Safety: To identify and address potential electrical risks before they cause harm. Legal Compliance: In many regions, landlords are legally required to provide an EICR to tenants, facing penalties if they don't. Peace of Mind: Knowing your electrical system is up to standard provides reassurance for both homeowners and tenants. Property Sale: When selling a house, an EICR can be beneficial to demonstrate the property's electrical safety to potential buyers. Insurance Requirements: Some insurance companies may request an EICR, especially for older properties. What does an EICR check? Consumer units, Wiring condition, Sockets and switches, Protective bonding, and Lighting circuits. If you are in need of an EICR on your home, please get in touch with us today on 07436 003 624.

Rewiring a house can be a significant expense due to the safety risks posed by damaged or deteriorating wiring. But how do you know when rewiring is necessary? There are no strict rules—having old wiring doesn’t automatically mean it’s unsafe. Wear and tear vary depending on the materials used and the property’s electrical history.