From socket replacements to ceiling fan installs, this week proved that even the smallest electrical jobs can reveal deeper issues—and bigger value for our customers.
Ceiling Fans, EICRs, and a Fuse Box That Needed Upgrading
We kicked off the week with a couple of ceiling fan installations—one in a home office, the other in a bedroom. A clean and simple job, but one that made a big difference in comfort for the customers.
We also carried out several EICRs (Electrical Installation Condition Reports) for rented properties. One report flagged an outdated consumer unit that no longer met current rental safety standards. We advised the customer accordingly and upgraded it to a modern 18th Edition fuse board. The result? A safer installation and a property that's now compliant with letting regulations.
Burnt Sockets and the Hidden Faults Behind Them
Two small jobs involved replacing burnt-out socket outlets, which at first glance seemed routine. But as always, we dug deeper. In both cases, we found the real problem wasn’t the socket—it was the appliances connected to them.
One faulty heater and one old tumble dryer were drawing too much current, damaging the outlets over time. Simply swapping sockets would have only delayed the next failure. After a quick discussion, both customers agreed to upgrade the appliances—an easy fix that prevented future risk.
It’s a good reminder: we’re not just here to replace parts, but to diagnose and advise on the root cause.
Lighting Upgrades with a Designer Touch
Later in the week, we helped a couple of customers with lighting upgrades—replacing basic pendant fittings with more stylish designs from online marketplaces. One customer also asked for dimmer switches to complete the look.
Although often considered cosmetic, these jobs still require careful handling, especially with unfamiliar fixtures. Done properly, they add style, comfort, and peace of mind.
Fault-Finding and Cooker Advice That Saved Money
Another callout involved a tripping cooker circuit. After fault-finding, the cause was a damaged heating element inside the cooker—again, a common issue in older appliances.
The customer mentioned the cooker was already 7–8 years old, and one ring had stopped working a while ago. We looked into part availability and pricing, and between that and labour, the cost would have been around 50% of a brand-new unit—with only limited warranty on the repair.
After a short discussion, the customer decided it made more sense to purchase a new cooker with a full warranty. We’re already booked to wire it in once it's delivered. A smart decision that avoided throwing good money after bad.
Extractor Fans and Communal Bulkhead Lights
We also tackled some extractor fan replacements, mostly in bathrooms where the old units had stopped working or become noisy. In a few rented properties, we replaced bulkhead lights in communal areas to keep things safe and well-lit for tenants.
They may not be glamorous jobs, but they make a big difference in everyday use—and they’re exactly the sort of things landlords and agents appreciate being sorted without delay.
Behind the Scenes: Wholesalers, Planning, and One-Visit Fixes
Alongside the hands-on work, we had a few site visits and quotes, plus several trips to the wholesalers to source materials for upcoming jobs. Wherever possible, we aim to carry out work in one visit—saving time for us and keeping costs down for our customers.
