Running a business in Leeds? We can help!

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Here at Dalec our electrical services are available to business and domestic customers alike and whether you run a commercial or industrial business, we can help.

We know that carrying out any kind of renovation or installation work can prove to be very costly for business owners, not only in terms of the cost of the work, but also as a loss of productivity and disruption to the working day. We take great pride in the efficiency and reliability of our electrical repair, installation and maintenance services and our work is carried out with the minimum of fuss and disruption.

We can help will all types of electrical installations for businesses, including the design and installation of fire protection and security systems, lighting, rewiring, general repairs or routine maintenance.

Our services are available throughout Leeds and surrounding areas and if you would like to find out more or to obtain a free, no-obligation quote, we’d be happy to visit you at a time to suit you. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch for further information.

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Is your garage or shed protected from theft?

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There’s been a recent spike in bike thefts, particularly from garages and sheds in Wharfedale, with Ilkley, Burley-in-Wharfedale, Addingham and Ben Rhydding being particularly hard hit. Wharfedale has become incredibly popular with cyclists over recent years – thanks in part to the Tour de France back in 2014 – and it’s very possible that this is why burglars are targeting this area.

Although many homes are protected with a security alarm, garages and sheds tend to be overlooked and left unprotected. However, when you stop to consider that your garage can be home to some pretty expensive kit – bikes, cycling equipment, golf clubs, power tools or even the lawn mower – protecting the garage or shed starts to seem like a very sensible idea!

Our expertise covers all aspects of home security and our team are more than happy to provide advice on the best ways to ensure your garage, shed our outbuildings are safe and secure. Many of the homeowners we meet simply don’t realise that it’s possible to protect a shed or garage with an alarm and if you already have a security system, one option can be to incorporate your outbuildings into the existing system.

Another practical, yet relatively cost-effective solution to protecting the garage or shed is security lighting. Dusk-to-dawn lights are designed to switch on and off automatically when it goes dark and the sun comes up, whilst motion sensor lights are triggered by movement. Another good way to protect your garage or shed, security lighting is very low-maintenance and easy to install.

If you would like to find out more about protecting your shed or garage, why not get in touch?

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Outdoor electrical installations in Leeds

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We all know water and electricity don’t mix and if you’re considering installing a hot tub in your garden, the electrics for your new tub must be prepared by a qualified electrician.

Whilst hot tubs don’t require a permanent water supply, they do need a permanent suitable electricity supply. Hot tubs fall into the same category as swimming pools when it comes to installation regulations and whilst they are a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors throughout the year, they do need to be installed and cared for correctly.

If you’re considering buying a hot tub it’s important to remember that you really do get what you pay for. It can be tempting to go for a bargain, but a poor quality hot tub will at best be unreliable or downright dangerous in the worst cases. Buying a cheap hot tub can end up costing more in the long run in repairs but when it comes to safety, finding a bargain really isn’t worth it.

Before your hot tub is installed you will need to ensure that it will have an adequate electricity supply via an RCD circuit breaker. This is an incredibly important piece of kit, especially if you’re going to use electricity outdoors, and the electricity supply to your tub should always be installed by a qualified electrician.

A professionally installed hot tub should give you years of pleasure but to ensure that it is reliable and safe to use, it must be regularly serviced. Again a qualified electrician should do this and any repairs, no matter how minor, must always be carried out by a professional.

Here at Dalec we have a team of highly qualified engineers how all have many yeas or experience in a wide range electrical installations. Our services are available to homeowners throughout Leeds and if you would like to arrange a free, no-obligation quote, we’d be delighted to help. Why not get in touch today on 01535 606 006?

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How much does a new burglar alarm cost?

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‘How much does a new burglar alarm cost?’ is one of the questions our customers ask us most frequently. This question is difficult to give a precise answer to as there are a number of different systems available. However, there are a number of factors which will affect the price of a new alarm system.

Audible vs response alarms

Burglar alarms are designed to react in different ways if they are activated. Audible alarm systems are the most basic type and will sound if an intruder is detected. Key holder response alarms can be described as ‘middle level’ systems and alarms in this group will contact a designated list of contacts who have access to the property and inform them that the system has been triggered. The highest level of response alarms available are systems which will contact the police if the alarm is triggered.

Wireless or wired?

The cost of a new burglar alarm will depend on whether the system you choose is wired or wireless. Wireless systems have a reputation for being more expensive than their wired counterparts; however this is not usually the case as wireless alarms can be cheaper to install as less cabling is required.

System size

The size of a burglar alarm system will naturally have implications on the overall cost of the system. An average system with 4 or 5 zones will be much cheaper to buy and install in comparison to a larger system with 15 or more zones.

Home insurance

If you’re thinking of investing in a new or upgraded burglar alarm system, it can be well worth speaking to your home insurance provider first. Many insurers specify certain types of system and the type of system you choose could affect the price of the quotations you receive.

Contact us on 01535 606 006

Because every home is different every alarm system is different and if you would like an exact price for installing a new system, we’d be delighted to give you a free, no-obligation quote. Our alarm installation services are available to homeowners throughout Leeds and by choosing us to install your system; you’ll have the reassurance of knowing that you are working with a reputable, qualified team of alarm specialists.

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Could your business benefit from the protection offered by security lighting?

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Security lighting for businesses in Leeds

Security lighting is widely recognised as an effective deterrent to potential intruders, however here at Dalec we still come across many business premises that are completely unprotected.

A wide range of security lighting is available and before investing in a system, you’ll need to think about why your business needs protection. Some businesses use security lighting as a way to improve employee safety as they enter or leave the building in the dark, whilst others use it to protect the outside areas of their business at night time. However you decide to use security lighting, it’s worth bearing in mind that it is highly effective deterrent and that most burglars will move on if they see that a building is protected.

Not only can security lighting be used to protect the outside areas of a building, it can also be prove to be very effective when used to protect entrances and exits, stairways, corridors and reception areas. In addition, some systems can be set to switch on and off automatically at certain times of day – ideal for when the building is unoccupied at the weekends or at night – or to switch on when movement is detected. It is also possible to design security lighting systems so that they work in conjunction with CCTV systems – an unbeatable way to protect your business around the clock.

Night time protection for businesses of all shapes and sizes

Security lighting systems can be designed to suit a wide range of business premises and whether you own a small shop or office building, or your business is housed in a large factory or industrial plant, security lighting can be tailor made to meet your requirements.

Here at Dalec we are specialists in installing security systems for businesses in Leeds and if you would like to find out more about our services, or to arrange a free, no-obligation quote, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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Just a few simple steps can help you improve the security of your home

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Security advice for homeowners in Leeds

Regular readers of our blog will know that we often discuss the importance of having a burglar alarm and although there’s no denying that you’ll be better protected with a security system in place, there are several very simple things you can do to improve the security of your home.

Lock your doors!

Although it sounds obvious, the most important step you can take to improve security is to lock your doors. It’s such a quick and simple thing to do but you’d be surprised at the number of homeowners who still leave the doors unlocked when they go out. Remember that an unlocked door presents the ideal opportunity for an opportunist thief to enter your property so don’t give them the chance: make sure you always lock your doors, even if you’re just popping out for five minutes.

Invest in decent locks

Buying cheap locks simply isn’t worth it so always buy the best that you can afford. If you’re tempted to buy a cheap lock, remember that you get what you pay for and it won’t seem like such a bargain if your TV and laptop are stolen.

Secure your windows

Never leave downstairs windows open at night as burglars find windows much easier to open than doors. If your downstairs windows have been fitted with locks you should use them – especially at night or when you go away – and never leave windows open when you leave the house unattended.

Keep door keys hidden

Always keep your door keys hidden from view and although it can be tempting to hang them up near the front or back door, it’s much safer to keep them well away from prying eyes and certainly never in reach of the letter box

Keep the lights on

Ensuring your house is well-lit whilst you’re out or away is a really effective deterrent to intruders. Timer devices are pretty cheap these days and it’s well worth buying a few to make your house look occupied around the clock.

Going on holiday? Take extra precautions

If you’re going away on holiday it’s important that you don’t advertise the fact. Piled up post, milk on the doorstep will send a signal to burglars that you’re away so make sure you let your neighbours know you’re going on holiday and try to mow the lawn just before you go.

Use your alarm

If you’ve got a burglar alarm then you must always use it when you go out or on holiday. If you’re worried that your alarm isn’t working properly or doesn’t meet your requirements, why not get in touch with a local alarm specialist such as Dalec? We’re happy to provide further information or a free, no-obligation quote.

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Protecting your offices with an alarm system

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As office premises are often the target of burglars and intruders, it makes sense to ensure that yours is adequately protected with a reliable intruder alarm system. However, installing alarm systems in offices can present a unique set of challenges such as the layout of the building, the value of the assets stored inside it and the number of people working there.

Here at Dalec we have worked with businesses across Leeds, helping them find effective security solutions designed to meet their requirements and budget. For us the first stage of any new office security system installation is to carry out a thorough assessment of the security requirements of the business; taking into account an existing security system and its strengths and weaknesses. We will also consider how existing security measures are implemented and enforced, how often they are reviewed and who is responsible for security.

Offices can be challenging places to install an alarm as many businesses have a significant number of staff, possibility working in large open-plan areas at different times of the day and night. In addition, some office premises have areas which can be accessed by the general public, alongside other areas which must be kept highly secure.

Our team of alarm engineers are highly trained and have experience of alarm systems in offices and businesses of all shapes and sizes. By choosing us for your office alarm installation you’ll have the reassurance of knowing that your new alarm system is being installed with skill, care and attention to detail.

If you would like further information on protecting your offices with an alarm system, or to arrange a free, no-obligation quote, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

In next week’s post we’ll be covering easy ways to protect your office or business premises from theft or unwanted intruders.

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Simple steps you can take to protect your business in Leeds

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Following on from last week’s blog post on office security, as promised we’re going to share a few relatively simple ways to improve the overall security of your business premises.

Keeping car parks safe

Just as you would protect the inside of your offices, car parks should also be safe places for your visitors and employees. With this in mind there are a number of cost-effective things you can do to improve car park security and security lighting is a great way to help your employees feel safe at night, whilst deterring potential intruders. Good lighting is very important and alongside security lights, it’s also essential to provide sufficient lighting over entrances and fire escapes.

Car park barrier systems provide enhanced car park security and are an effective way to crack down on unauthorised parking and as yet another way to deter intruders.

Controlling access

If your office is open to the public, it’s a very sensible idea to control who has access. Access control locks can be used to secure doors into private or secure areas whilst CCTV is a highly effective way to monitor visitors. It’s also worth bearing in mind that something as simple as issuing visitors with a temporary ID badge can be a highly effective way to improve security.

Think about how your office is arranged: access entry points should be positioned so that it’s not possible for unwanted visitors to move around unchallenged and any secure or sensitive areas should be located as far away from the main entrance as possible.

Simple yet effective

Even simple security measures such as security marking or labelling are great ways to encourage staff to be more aware of offices security. Here at Dalec we provide tailor made security systems for businesses of all shapes and sizes, so whether you’re looking for a simple security lighting system, or a bespoke intruder alarm, we’d be delighted to help. Our engineers operate throughout Leeds so why not get in touch for advice?

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Electrical safety in the garden part 1

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Although spring definitely isn’t here yet, it won’t be long until the days start getting longer and we start to think about tidying up the garden.

There’s no denying that electricity makes gardening much easier and it’s difficult to imagine managing without a lawnmower or electrical hedge trimmer, however the risk of injury (or worse) from electric shock is much greater than when using electrical equipment indoors.

It goes without saying that electricity and water just don’t mix so regardless of whether there’s a torrential downpour or heavy dew, never use electrical equipment outdoors until the ground has dried up.

However, provided you follow a few simple safety rules every time you use electricity in the garden, avoiding a serious accident is straightforward.

The best way to protect you from electrical shock and the risk of electrical fires is to fit a residual current device or RCD. Without an RCD, if you accidentally cut through an electrical lead, something as simple as mowing the lawn could kill you.

If you’re using a lawnmower or hedge trimmer it is very important that you make sure the cables, plugs and connectors are in good condition and free from damage. Always buy the best quality mower or hedge trimmer that you can afford and make sure you choose one that it made by a well-known brand. In addition you should read and follow the instructions carefully and check that the plug socket you use is protected by an RCD.

When you’re mowing the lawn make sure the grass is completely dry and that you wear shoes and not sandals or flip flops. Gloves and goggles are a good idea when using a hedge trimmer and make sure children and pets are kept well away from the appliance.

Come back next week to see our follow-up post which will offer more advice on using electricity safely in the garden.

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Don’t overlook door security

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Effective door security is very important if you want to safeguard your business or property from the risk of theft or unwanted intruders.

Although traditional locks and keys are a vital security measure, an over-reliance on keys can present a number of problems. When keys are lost or stolen, for example, this can cause a huge headache in terms of the cost of having locks replaced and when keys are copied without your knowledge, this creates a significant security risk. In addition, it’s not unusual for doors to be left unlocked by accident, leaving your property further exposed to risk of theft.

This is where an access control system can come prove to be incredibly beneficial and by installing one of these systems in your business premises or home, you’ll have the reassurance of never having to worry about changing the locks again.

Door access systems for office, business and residential properties

A wide range of door access systems are available and most are operated by an electronic key fob or door access token which is passed over a sensor by the door, allowing the user to gain access to the building. In the event of a key fob being lost, it can be deactivated and barred from the system, allowing the user to be issued with a new fob. Some systems work using an entry code system; when using this type of system, security can be ensured by regularly changing the access code. Voice access control systems are also available and these are an ideal security solution for residents of multi-storey properties or apartment buildings with shared entrance halls.

Contact Dalec on 01535 606006

Here at Dalec we have many years of experience in installing access control systems and we’re happy to provide advice on the best system for your budget and property. If you would like to find out more, or to arrange for a free, no-obligation quote, why not get in touch today?

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