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Closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras are very common nowadays for security monitoring. However, they only perform well if set up properly. This article outlines common mistakes people make when installing CCTV systems and practical solutions to avoid them

Failing to Survey the Site

Before installing a CCTV system, it is advisable to thoroughly survey the premises. Walk through the site and strategically plan where to place cameras and other equipment for optimum visibility. Skipping this planning often results in limited coverage and blind spots later. 

Surveying properly positions cameras sets equipment specifications, and reveals potential lighting issues or obstructed lines of sight. Taking the time to survey properly saves time and money in the long run by preventing issues down the road.

Not Following Local CCTV Rules

CCTV laws are different everywhere. Some places ban cameras in public spots. Others make you put a notice saying you use CCTV. Ignoring the rules in your area can cause legal trouble later on. Check the laws where you live. 

Make any changes like adjusting camera angles if needed. Ask an expert if you’re unsure. Being aware of and following local laws is crucial for avoiding fines or having to make adjustments after the fact.

Buying Low-Cost, Low-Quality Gear

HD CCTV equipment costs more but performs much better day and night. Cheap systems fail quickly or give poor-quality video. It’s wise to invest in good cameras and gear meant for your location. 

Copying other people’s setups often won’t work well. Get professional advice on the right system. Spending a bit more upfront saves money in the long run through better performance and longevity.

Positioning Cameras Badly

Cameras placed too high or low miss things in their view area. Facing sunrise or sunset makes the footage too dark. Tilted-up cameras also cause issues. Consider lighting, buildings, and other local factors when installing cameras. Always test positions first. Taking the time to position cameras thoughtfully prevents limited visibility and other problems.

Not Securing the System Properly

Just screwing or glueing cameras to a wall leaves them vulnerable to damage, bad weather, or tampering. Entire CCTV systems need solid, durable installation. Mount equipment securely and route cables neatly. Well-installed cameras keep working reliably for years. Properly securing the system protects your investment in the long term.

Forgetting System Maintenance

Outdoor CCTV gear gets exposed to dust, weather, bugs etc. This gradually degrades video quality and can damage equipment over time if not cleaned and checked periodically. Do biannual system inspections/maintenance to prevent breakdowns. Regular maintenance identifies issues early, preventing costly emergency repairs down the road.

FAQs

What is the recommended CCTV camera mounting height?

The ideal mounting height is 2.5 to 3 meters high. This enables the camera to capture sharp facial footage for identification while minimising excess foreground elements that can block views.

What legal regulations apply to business security cameras?

Regulations differ across localities but generally mandate visible signage warning of CCTV presence in public spaces. Other locations prohibit directly filming private living space through windows. Always check specific area statutes.

When should I hire a professional installer?

For large premises or complexes requiring extensive coverage, professional installers prove advisable. Their experience allows tailoring sophisticated CCTV solutions complying with ordinances. They also handle licensing requirements.

What routine maintenance does a CCTV system need?

Expect to periodically clean dust, insects and grime off camera housings, lenses and cables. Check connections for loose or corroded fittings. For optimal performance, update firmware and software as manufacturers release patches.

Can weather damage outdoor CCTV equipment?

While CCTV fixtures rated for the elements are resilient, extreme cold, heat and moisture can still penetrate protective casings over time, leading to internal component failure or corrosion damage. So periodically inspect systems.

Conclusion

Installing a properly functioning CCTV system requires attention to detail and best practices to avoid common pitfalls. Trying to cut corners with installation often leads to poor visibility, equipment failures, or legal issues down the road costing more time and money to fix. 

For reliable, high-quality CCTV solutions meeting all local requirements, contact EJB Electrical. As an experienced CCTV installation company, we survey sites thoroughly, recommend optimal equipment, ensure discreet and secure setup following ordinances, and provide ongoing maintenance. Investing in a professionally installed system by EJB Electrical delivers effective security video monitoring while avoiding headaches from do-it-yourself mistakes. 

For customised CCTV systems maximising coverage and performance, choose EJB Electrical as your local CCTV installation company today.

In today’s tech-savvy world, the dream of having your own home cinema is more achievable than ever. What used to be seen as a luxury has now become a real possibility for many. Before you jump into turning this dream into a reality, there are some important things you should think about.

Understanding Your Space

Before you start setting up your home cinema, it’s important to take a good look at the space you have. The size and shape of your room will affect everything from sound quality to where you can place your seats.

Room Dimensions

Compact Rooms: Often more challenging, yet not impossible. Smaller spaces require clever design choices, ensuring the room doesn’t feel overcrowded. Opting for wall-mounted screens or short-throw projectors can be advantageous.

Spacious Rooms: These offer more flexibility. They allow for larger screens, multiple seating arrangements, and sometimes even a mini concession stand for snacks.

Tech Matters: Getting the Right Gear

A great cinema setup needs some quality tech. Let’s break down the tech details for you.

Projecting the Right Image: Modern projectors are a far cry from the dull ones we remember from school assemblies. They can brighten up your space with sharp, crystal-clear images. While 1080p is ace, if you can stretch to a 4K one, you’re in for a treat.

Sound Advice: It’s not just about volume; it’s about quality. A surround sound system can elevate your cinema experience to new heights. Whether you opt for a 5.1 or 7.1 channel system, prepare for an auditory delight.

Connectivity is Key: Make sure your setup is versatile and ready for streaming, gaming, and the good old DVD or Blu-ray. Versatility ensures you’re prepared for every entertainment whim.

Creating the Perfect Ambience:

Setting up the best mood for your home cinema is all about mixing tech with comfort. It’s where practicality meets style. Let’s look at how you can achieve this perfect balance and make your movie nights unforgettable:

Lighting – More Than Just Brightness

The lighting you choose can really change how you feel during a movie. Good lighting helps set the mood, whether you’re watching an action-packed thriller or a feel-good rom-com. Dimmable lights let you choose the brightness that’s just right. Meanwhile, LED strips add a cool look and set the right vibe. It’s like setting the stage before the film even starts.

Seating 

 Remember those times at the cinema when you wished you could just sink into your chair a little more? In your home cinema, you can! Seating is an aspect where you shouldn’t compromise. This isn’t just about avoiding a numb bum but about creating a cosy space that invites you in. Plush recliners that let you lean back in opulence, quirky bean bags that offer a more informal, laid-back vibe, or even customised seating arrangements that give your room a unique touch – the choices are endless. The aim? Make every movie night feel like a treat.

Décor 

Ever walked into a room and felt it tell a story? That’s what your home cinema’s décor should do. Your choice of adornments can speak volumes about your cinematic preferences. Are you a fan of the classics? Perhaps framed posters of ‘Gone with the Wind’ or ‘Casablanca’. More of a Marvel enthusiast? Life-sized figurines or collectables could be your pick. From classic movie reels, and director’s clapboards, to thematic wall art – let your room be a canvas that reflects your cinematic passions. After all, this is your sanctuary, a place where your love for movies should resonate in every nook and cranny.

EJB Electrical’s Tips and Tricks

When it comes to adding the final touches to your home cinema, don’t overlook some game-changing tips. Consider soundproofing the room with acoustic panels or heavy curtains to both boost your audio experience and keep the rest of the house quiet during your movie marathons. Consolidating your controls with a universal remote can simplify your life in ways you didn’t think possible. 

And never underestimate the power of regular maintenance; a bit of tender loving care like dusting and occasional professional check-ups can go a long way in ensuring your home cinema stays in prime condition for years to come.

Conclusion

Setting up the perfect home cinema might appear overwhelming, but the right guidance can make all the difference. Why navigate this journey alone? Let our expertise lead the way. Reach out to us today for a bespoke quote, tailored to bring your cinematic dreams to life.

Solar panels are becoming common on many properties as a green energy choice. However, like any equipment, they need regular care to work at their best. This guide will help you understand how often you should service your solar panels and why.

Service Frequency for Solar Panels

For the best performance from your solar panels, regular checks are important. Most experts advise a yearly check-up. But, depending on where you live, the weather, and your panel quality, you might need more frequent checks.

Why Regular Checks Are Important

Regular checks are not just about cleaning the panels. They help improve panel efficiency, make them last longer, and ensure safety. With good care, panels can work well for up to 25-30 years. Safety checks are also key to making sure there are no hidden electrical issues and keeping everything safe.

Getting regular solar panel service can be cost-saving in the long run. They help catch small issues before they become big, costly problems. A well-working system also gives you more value for your money. Some companies even offer yearly check-up deals, which can be cost-effective.

Factors Influencing Servicing Frequency

How often you need to check your panels can depend on:

• Where You Live: If you’re in a dusty or polluted area, your panels might need more cleaning.

• Nearby Trees and Birds: Leaves or bird droppings can gather on panels, affecting how they work.

• How Panels Are Set Up: If panels lie flatter, they might gather more dirt and need more cleaning.

Signs Your Solar Panels Need Immediate Attention

Without moving components, signs of wear in panels can still be evident. Watch out for reduced power output, apparent cracks, or alert messages from the power converter. These signs often indicate a need for an immediate solar panels service.

Caring for solar panels involves not only cleaning but also checking the frame’s sturdiness, ensuring the power converter functions properly, and inspecting cables for potential damage.

Professional Servicing vs. DIY Maintenance

While you can do simple tasks like cleaning, getting a professional is often best. At EJB Electrical we have the right tools and know what to look for. This is especially important for safety with panels on roofs.

Regular checks can save money in the long run. They help catch small issues before they become big, costly problems. A well-working system also gives you more value for your money.

How Climate Change Affects Solar Panel Efficiency

With global temperatures steadily rising due to climate change, understanding its impact on solar panels is becoming increasingly vital. Solar panels rely on sunlight for power generation, but excessive heat can adversely affect their efficiency. Especially in areas experiencing intense and prolonged heat waves, this decline in performance can be particularly noticeable. Regular solar panel service in such regions, with potential cooling adaptations, is even more crucial to ensure optimal panel operation and longevity.

Conclusion

Regular and effective maintenance is the cornerstone to unlocking your solar panels’ potential. However, it’s not solely about the frequency but the quality of service that truly matters. At EJB Electrical we take this ethos to heart, offering premium solar panel installations, maintenance, and repairs, to ensure that your investment works efficiently for you. Partner with us for a brighter and more sustainable tomorrow.

Modern life revolves around electricity. From our morning coffee routine to our evening relaxation with a good movie, we depend on electrical systems to power our day. But, what happens when you need to set up new electrical installations or tackle electrical problems in your Harlow home or office? That’s where the professionals, like our team at EJB Electrical, step in.

In this comprehensive guide, we’re walking you through our suite of electrical installation services available throughout Harlow, so you can make the best decisions for your property’s electrical needs.

Decoding Electrical Installations

Before we dive into the specifics of how our team can assist you in Harlow, let’s understand what electrical installation entails.

What are Electrical Installation Services?

In the simplest terms, electrical installation refers to the setup of electrical systems, appliances, and outlets in a building. It’s a wide-ranging field, covering everything from fitting new buildings with complete electrical systems to upgrading and maintaining existing wiring. This is complex, high-stakes work that always requires professional handling.

Why Opt for Professional Electrical Installation Services?

As tempting as DIY electrical work might be, electricity is not an area to dabble in without professional training. It’s not just about knowing where the wires go; it’s about adhering to safety standards, understanding building codes, and having the experience to avoid potential pitfalls. At EJB Electrical, we have the qualifications and expertise to ensure your electrical installations are safe and reliable.

Why EJB Electrical is Harlow’s Preferred Choice?

From Old Harlow to Church Langley, The Stow to Staple Tye, we are the trusted choice for electrical installations in Harlow. Here’s why.

We Are Fully Certified

At EJB Electrical, all our electricians are fully certified and committed to adhering to the British Standards (BS 7671) and local building regulations.

Experience and Trust

We’ve spent years building a reputation for reliability and quality in Harlow. Our track record speaks for itself, demonstrating our team’s unwavering dedication to our clients.

Local Expertise

Being based in Harlow means we have a deep understanding of the local regulations and the unique needs of our community. We bring this local know-how to every job, ensuring our services meet your needs and comply with all Harlow-specific guidelines.

EJB Electrical’s Harlow Services

Whether you’re planning a new build, renovating an older property, or installing cutting-edge smart home systems, EJB Electrical offers a broad range of services to cover all your electrical needs in Harlow.

New Electrical Installations

Are you building your dream home in Staple Tye or setting up a new business in Old Harlow? Our team is equipped to handle all aspects of electrical installations for new builds, ensuring everything is up to code and installed safely.

Rewiring Services

If you have an older property in areas like Church Langley or The Stow, you might require rewiring to meet modern safety standards. Our rewiring services ensure your property is safe, efficient, and up-to-date.

Smart Home Installations

From Old Harlow to The Stow, we’re helping Harlow residents bring their homes into the 21st century with smart home installations. We’ll assist you in setting up everything from intelligent lighting controls to state-of-the-art security systems.

Conclusion

No matter where you are in Harlow – be it Staple Tye, Newhall, Church Langley, Old Harlow, or The Stow – you can rest easy knowing that EJB Electrical is here for you. We’ve got a skilled team with a wealth of experience, a track record we’re proud of, and a commitment to providing outstanding service. You can rely on us to handle your electrical installations professionally and safely.
Ready to get started? Explore our range of services and get in touch with our team today.

No one enjoys receiving a high electricity bill, but the good news is that it’s possible to significantly reduce your energy usage and the cost associated with it. Here at EJB Electrical, we are passionate about helping our clients save money on their energy bills, and we believe that knowledge is power. So, let’s take a look at some top tips for reducing your electricity bills.

1. Energy Efficient Appliances

One of the quickest ways to reduce energy usage is by switching to energy-efficient appliances. Look for products with the ‘Energy Saving Recommended’ label, a UK certification that identifies high-efficiency products. While they might cost more upfront, they’ll save you money in the long run through reduced electricity consumption.

2. Switch Off Standby Appliances

Leaving your appliances on standby mode can surprisingly add a lot to your electricity bill. In fact, the Energy Saving Trust estimates that you could save around £30 a year just by turning appliances off at the plug. So, remember to switch off your appliances completely when not in use.

3. Use Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs

Incandescent light bulbs are a thing of the past. Modern LED bulbs consume up to 90% less energy and last longer too. If you replace all the bulbs in your home with LEDs, you could save about £35 a year on your electricity bills.

4. Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance of electrical systems and appliances is crucial. Faulty wiring or appliances can consume more power, leading to higher electricity bills. At EJB Electrical, we offer a comprehensive range of electrical repair and installation services to keep your systems running smoothly and efficiently.

5. Invest in a Smart Meter

Smart meters provide real-time information about your energy usage, allowing you to understand where and when you’re using the most electricity. Most energy suppliers in the UK provide smart meters free of charge, and they can be an invaluable tool for managing your energy consumption.

6. Energy-Efficient Heating

Lower your thermostat by just one degree can save up to £80 a year. Also, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat that adjusts heating based on your patterns, further increasing your savings.

7. Insulate Your Home

Proper insulation keeps your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, reducing the need for heating and air conditioning. Consider insulating your loft, walls, and floors to improve your home’s energy efficiency.

8. Solar Panels

Installing solar panels is a significant investment, but it’s one that can pay off handsomely. Solar panels can generate a considerable portion of your electricity, especially during the summer months, drastically reducing your energy bills. Plus, with the UK’s Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), you could even earn money by selling the excess electricity back to the grid. EJB Electrical are experts in solar panel installation, and we’d be happy to discuss how this could work for your home.

Energy efficiency isn’t just about saving money – it’s about reducing our impact on the environment. By making small changes, we can all contribute to a greener, more sustainable future. Contact EJB Electrical today to find out more about our services and how we can help you reduce your electricity bills.

What is battery storage?

As the name suggests battery storage is a way of storing electrical energy in a battery or series of batteries. Electrical batteries help you make the most of renewable electricity from solar photovoltaic (pv), a wind turbine, or a hydro-electric system.

For example, electricity generated during the day by solar pv modules could be stored in an electrical battery to use for boiling a kettle or watching the tv in the evenings when your solar pv modules are no longer generating electricity.

Do I have to have solar pv to have batteries?

No, you do not have to have solar pv in order to take advantage of battery storage as the batteries can noy only store the electrical energy generated by your home renewable technology, but a battery can also be used to store electricity straight from the grid at cheap times of the day or night.

This can dramatically reduce your reliance on expensive electricity during peak periods. Most electrical storage systems offer smart management, allowing you to track your energy usage online or within an app.

How efficient is battery storage?

Battery storage is typically around 80% to more than 90% efficient for newer lithium devices, battery storage systems connected to large solid state convertors have been used to stabilise power distribution networks.

What are the benefits of battery storage?

Battery storage systems allow for better use of renewable energy.

The use of batteries to store this energy is a necessity, ensuring the power can be used whenever you need it and not just feeding it back to the grid effectively being wasted.

Making you less dependant on the grid, and minimising electricity bills.

What is battery storage capacity?

Battery storage capacity refers to the total amount of energy your battery can store, but your battery/batteries can not generally totally discharge without damaging them, so systems will have a depth of discharge (DoD) limit, this typically ranges from 80% – 95%, meaning there is a lower usable capacity than the quoted storage capacity.

DC and AC battery storage systems

Solar panels and batteries both provide direct current (DC), and require a device called an invertor to change that to alternating current (AC), which is the electrical energy your house hold uses.

You can connect your battery to the DC side of your invertor or the AC side, lets have a look at both
To connect to the DC side your invertor must have the charging function built in, it will probably be described as a “hybrid” invertor, and you will end up with what is called a “DC coupled battery”, the battery will be positioned before the renewable generation meter, which means that it must not be charged from the AC grid (even if the invertor may be capable of doing so).

If your existing invertor does not have this feature you may be better off installing another invertor/charger that is connected to the AC supply, giving you what is called an “AC coupled Battery”, in this case you will be able to charge your battery from the grid and use cheap off-peak electricity to charge it.

What size battery should I get?

The battery size will depend on your current energy usage, and the size of any generation technologies you have installed, although you do not need to have generation technologies to take advantage of battery storage as you can charge the batteries at night on a cheaper rate to then use the stored energy during the day when electricity is at a higher rate.

It is also worth thinking about considering your future electricity usage, if you are intending to purchase an electric vehicle (EV).

If you would like more information, please call us today on 07482 394225

Everyone knows that renewable energy solutions can help you to reduce your energy bills, but are they the right choice for you and your property?

With clear concise advise and high standards of workmanship EJB Electrical strive to be the best solar panel and battery storage company in the south of England, we aim to make the whole process as informative, simple and hassle free as we possibly can.

Why Go Solar?

Solar panels can offer a clean alternative to traditional energy sources, using energy from the sun you can generate clean renewable energy that can be used in your property to replace a portion or all of the electricity you would normally purchase from your energy supplier.

Any excess energy you generate but do not use can be stored in batteries for use at night when your solar panels are not generating.

Your five steps to solar panel installation

1. After initial contact we will arrange a convenient time to attend your home in order to undertake an evaluation of your property and its existing electrical system to determine the best solution individually crafted to meet your energy requirements.
2. Once the best solution has been agreed we will give you an estimation of yield from the system to show you how much greener, energy efficient and sustainable your home is likely to become.
3. Next up, our skilled and accredited installation team will install your chosen solar panels plus any other energy solutions using industry approved products.
4. Once installed and commissioned you will receive demonstrations on the newly installed products, to ensure you are confident with how the new system works and how to control it.
5. Lastly you will receive a warranty for your newly installed system to give you peace of mind for years to come. With over 30 years experience in the electrical industry EJB Electrical will make the process as straightforward and stress free as possible for you.

Interested? call us now on 07482 394225