Balancing Functionality and Style: Kitchen Lighting

A look back at how Wilton began & where we are headed...

You've probably worked out by now dogs, cats, rabbits, and other pets are naturally curious! Their playful or inquisitive behaviour can sometimes lead to dangerous encounters with household electrical systems. Amongst our own team are dog & cat owners so we are big on helping families protect every member of the household - four-legged included. Pets, especially puppies & kittens, often chew on things they shouldn't. Unfortunately, power cords and chargers are common targets. This can lead to electric shocks or even house fires. One easy solution is to use protective cable covers or durable conduit tubing to shield wires from little teeth. You can also tuck cables behind furniture or invest in cord management systems to keep things neat and out of sight (they disappear into your skirting board, no one would ever know!) Wall sockets are another hazard so outlet covers or child-proof plugs are a quick fix to keep curious paws and noses away. Be mindful of portable heaters, fans, and lamps. Pets can knock these over or chew on their cords, so it's best to unplug them when not in use. Also, ensure your switchboards are secure and locked if they’re in an area your pets can access. While it might seem excessive, once an expensive appliance is damaged, warranty becomes void & it could end up beyond repair making the initial safety set up seem not so silly anymore! We can also make sure everything is up to modern safety standards while we’re there to give you peace of mind. A pet-safe home is a happy home. With a few small adjustments, we can help you prevent accidents, protect your pets, and avoid costly repairs. Need help making your home pet-safe? Contact Glenn!

At Wilton Electrical, we often get asked, "Why are my lights flickering?" Flickering lights can be frustrating, but they can also signal potential issues with your electrical system. Here are some common causes of this pesky problem: 1. Faulty LED Bulbs If you’re using LED lights, a common culprit is the bulb itself. LEDs can flicker if they’re defective, or even due to poor-quality bulbs. 2. Incompatible Dimmer Switch If your lights are connected to a dimmer switch, it may not be compatible with the style of lighting you have. Dimmer switches designed for incandescent bulbs may not work well with LED or CFL bulbs, causing flickering. 3. Loose or Faulty Wiring Flickering could indicate loose wiring or connections, which could be a serious safety hazard. Over time, wiring can degrade or become loose, causing inconsistencies. 4. Overloaded Circuit If too many devices are drawing power from the same circuit, your lights may flicker or even dim intermittently. This needs to be dealt with immediately. Other than changing the light bulb to something more compatible, we do not suggest fixing it yourself (as tempting as it might be), it’s always safest and most economical to call a licensed electrician. At Wilton, we can quickly identify the root cause of your flickering lights and provide a reliable and long-term solution, keeping your home safe and well-lit. Don’t hesitate to call Glenn for a quote or some advice! 📞 0414 494 902

Electrical fires can strike quickly and without warning! Understanding how to put out an electrical fire is crucial for keeping your home and family safe. Knowing the right steps and having the correct equipment can be the difference between a minor incident & a disaster. The first step in preventing electrical fires is awareness. Electrical fires often begin with faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or malfunctioning appliances. Think that tangled up power board behind the bed with multiple cables intertwined is a bad idea? Then it probably is! If an electrical fire occurs, you need to act fast but stay calm. What Equipment Should You Keep? An ABC-rated fire extinguisher is essential for every home. These are the extinguishers capable of putting out electrical fires (Class C), as well as fires involving ordinary materials and flammable liquids. Always keep one easily accessible and regularly checked. How to Put Out an Electrical Fire: 1. Turn off the Power: If it’s safe to do so, turn off the main switch at your switchboard to your home. 2. Use the Right Extinguisher: NEVER use water, as it can make the fire worse. Use an ABC fire extinguisher instead. 3. Aim at the Base of the Fire: Direct the spray at the base of the flames and sweep side-to-side. 4. Evacuate: If the fire doesn’t go out or grows, evacuate immediately and call the fire department on 000. Being prepared and knowledgeable can save lives. If this has made you rethink your setup at home or the safety of some of your appliances don’t hesitate to give us a call!

Embarking on an apprenticeship is the foundation for a successful career in the electrical industry and who you choose to indenture with can really shape the rest of your working life. Here are our top tips to help you secure an apprenticeship suited to you in 2025. 1. Punctuality Matters From the very first interaction, whether it’s a job interview or a meeting, punctuality speaks volumes about your professionalism and dedication. Arriving on time demonstrates respect for others' time and shows you are serious about the opportunity. 2. Follow Up with a Phone Call We cannot stress this one enough, after submitting your resume, don’t just sit back and wait. A polite phone call can highlight your eagerness and commitment. It also gives you a chance to ask questions and reiterate your interest in the position. Employers appreciate candidates who take the initiative! (This is Bossman's most important tip.) 3. Offer Your Time, Paid or Unpaid Experience is invaluable in this industry. Consider offering your time for free, or at a reduced rate. This could be a one-day or two-week trial period to showcase your skills and willingness to learn. Think about it, global companies like Kmart and McDonald’s often require trial shifts, so why shouldn’t smaller businesses do the same? Show that you’re willing to invest in your future. 4. Network and Build Relationships Don’t underestimate the power of networking. Attend; - Local trade shows: Makita, Milwaukee and more will do this in major cities and towns throughout the year. - Workshops: Get in touch with your local TAFE, they have more to offer than you’re probably aware of. If you are looking to go more industrial, WesTrac, Caterpillar and ARTC would hold information days and workshops, you just need to reach out. - Community events to meet professionals in the field: Many local electrical wholesalers will put on trade days and BBQs, go and show your face (and take resumes). Building relationships can open doors and lead to apprenticeship opportunities. By following these tips and showing some passion, you’ll position yourself as a standout apprentice. Currently, Wilton is not looking for an apprentice in 2025, but we love to see proactive individuals who are ready to learn and grow get a chance with a company who is the right fit rather than whoever will take them. From all of us here at Wilton Electrical, Good luck!

"We all have strengths and weaknesses. The team knows and respects each other’s, and in the workplace this only enhances their work further adding to a safe, happy day" - Kim Wilton In a small local electrical company like ours, teamwork isn't just a buzzword; it's the cornerstone of our success. We believe in recognising and celebrating each other's strengths and weaknesses because we know that together, we're stronger! We have a tight-knit team & everyone brings unique skills and perspectives to the table. Whether it's troubleshooting complex electrical issues or providing excellent service to our clients, we understand the value of leveraging our individual strengths to achieve common goals. More than that, we embrace the challenges that come our way as opportunities to grow and learn together. We lean in and find solutions as a team. This collaborative spirit not only helps us overcome obstacles but also encourages a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and motivated. Celebrating our successes, both big and small, is another crucial part of our team dynamic. It reinforces a positive culture where achievements are recognised and our team feels appreciated for their efforts. At Wilton, we believe that by supporting each other and embracing our differences, we can continue to thrive…teamwork makes the dream work! Join our team or learn more about our services by visiting our website at https://www.wiltonelectrical.com.au/ or contacting us at 0414 494 902 .

As the chill of winter approaches, it’s crucial to prepare your home for the colder months while keeping a keen eye on your energy consumption. Wilton understands the importance of staying not only warm but also energy efficient during winter, especially with the rising cost of living. We’ve put together some handy tips to help you prepare: Seal drafts!! Take note of the exclamation marks! Any window or door creating a draft in your home is stripping that room of heat. Unplug unused electronics: It might seem like an obvious one but even when turned off, electronics & appliances continue to draw power. Unplug devices when not in use Are you still replacing older style/incandescent light bulbs? It’s time to move over to LED people! They are much more energy efficient & give of 10x more sufficient light output It’s time to invest in your home! If you’re still using a little plug in heater or have an aircon that hangs out of your window? It’s time to invest & upgrade. We admit, it’s a bit of an initial outlay but the efficiency of ducted or single air conditioner systems in 2024 is remarkable! Try to stay away from electric blankets where possible. It’s no secret they are not a 5 star rating on the fire safety subject. Instead treat yourself to some winter pajamas so you don’t need one at all 😉  Following these steps, you can stay cozy during winter while keeping your energy consumption in check & your electricity bill down. Remember, every small effort counts towards a more sustainable future. If you need any electrical assistance or have any questions about how you could improve your homes efficiency don’t hesitate to contact us on 0414 494 902 From all of us here at Wilton, stay warm & energy conscious this winter!

What is your full name & where did you grow up? Glenn Wilton, I grew up in Woronorah Sydney. It's in the Sutherland Shire but I don't know if I should be telling people that! I've been in Newcastle a long time though; I moved here in the late 90's so I feel like a Novocastrian. How did you get into electrical & where did you start your career? I assisted my dad when I was a kid around the house, he was an unqualified electrician from the 70's, Glenn laughs fondly. I finished year 12 & decided to do a trade instead of going to uni for the ability to work outdoors & using my brain & hands. I started in 1988 with Hodgson & Lee in Surry Hills, Sydney. It was mostly commercial & fire safety. Tried my hand at apartment blocks, oven repairs & maintenance but then, like everyone else, in 1993 I was retrenched due to the recession. I went straight into subcontracting; this is where I found my passion for domestic work. In 1995 I left to go travelling & used a travel visa to work in London where I met my partner Kim & we came back to Newcastle together. What is your favourite aspect of electrical & being the Director of Wilton Electrical? Easily my favourite part of electrical is fault finding & trouble shooting. I genuinely love helping our clients, so I'm always looking for solutions to fix problems. Being part of a team is great, that's why I wanted to expand Wilton Electrical beyond a sole trader. I also love seeing apprentices become tradespeople & have a new skill for life! What are 3 facts people might not know about you? 1. I love music, you know if I'm home because there's always something blasting out of my record player (usually Sunny Boys). 2. Sharks' supporter but I don't know if I should be splashing that information around here in Newcastle he laughs. And I love being part of the soccer community here in Cooks Hill. 3. I'm allergic to almost all animals; dogs, cats, horses.. you name it! Lastly, where do you see yourself in 5 years? Still very involved in Wilton & hopefully still on the tools! Electrical is always advancing so I'm sure it will take us into new areas of work which is exciting. Our 2 daughters will both be finished their HSC by then so hopefully a little more travelling & surfing too!

One often overlooked aspect is the safety & efficiency of your electrical system. Choosing the right electrician sets the tone for a seamless 2024. A relationship with Wilton is your key to maintaining a safe & functional environment, whether its home or work. From small upgrades to emergency repairs, having the knowledge of Glenn & the team at your fingertips is imperative for a safe home or workplace. One of Glenn’s greatest qualities is ‘future proofing’, quick fixes are temporary & so should your relationship with the tradie doing so. Glenn is always looking for ways to get the most out of appliances, lights or any systems being installed. You are always informed 100% along the way & we’ve found keeping our clients in the loop & educated on what’s happening in their own home ensures an honest relationship from the start Supporting small businesses is one thing but finding an electrician that’s here to support you & give an honest breakdown is imperative for fostering a healthy relationship. Make 2024 the year you form a connection with a trusted & licensed electrician and get in touch with Glenn Wilton on 0414 494 902. We look forward to working with new & existing clients in 2024!