Ask the Electrician: How Do Electricians Use Thermal Imaging?
Thermal imaging cameras are a valuable tool for modern electricians. Using infrared thermography, these cameras can safely and accurately diagnose electrical problems by detecting excessive heat, a common cause of damage to electrical components. Licensed electricians and thermographers use thermal imaging as part of a structured maintenance program. For example, they can scan a circuit breaker to check for loose connections, identify issues with breaker contacts that generate hotspots, or assess if the load on the breaker is properly balanced. After resolving any diagnosed problems, they use thermal imaging again to...
Ask The Electrician: What are the Key Requirements for Upgrading a Facility’s Life Safety Systems?
The balance between maintaining operational functionality and ensuring occupant safety calls for meticulous planning and execution when upgrading a facility’s life safety systems. For electricians working on these projects, the responsibility extends beyond simple wire connections; it demands a thorough understanding and strict compliance to a complex web of codes and standards. The key requirements for upgrading a facility’s life safety systems include ensuring a proper power supply to critical life safety equipment like emergency lighting, exit signs, fire alarms, and communication systems through dedicated circuits; using automatic transfer switches for...
Interstate Electrical Services Celebrates Employees’ Contributions
BILLERICA, Mass., July 10, 2025 — Interstate Electrical Services Corporation recently hosted its yearly Employee Appreciation Awards at its Operations Center in Tewksbury, honoring the dedicated individuals who contribute to the company’s success. The ceremony, led by Interstate President Jim Alibrandi, celebrated significant milestones and achievements within the Interstate family. This year's event recognized the newest cohort of graduating Apprentices. In a ceremony highlight, Alibrandi extended his gratitude to employees reaching significant tenure, with recognition spanning from 10 to over 45 years of service. The occasion also served as an opportunity...
Ask The Electrician: How Do Modern LEDs Streamline Maintenance and Improve Cleanliness?
In the realm of building maintenance, advancements in LED technology are proving to be transformative, extending far beyond simple illumination. LED fixtures streamline building maintenance and even enhance indoor air quality, through innovations that range from simplified circuitry and maintenance-free operation to groundbreaking air purification capabilities. The compact nature and reduced power consumption of today’s LEDs significantly simplify maintenance. For example, we can now install multiple LED lights on a single circuit, a feat previously unattainable with fluorescent or incandescent lighting. This translates to fewer circuits, less equipment, and ultimately, reduced...
How Advancements in Medical Technology are Powering the Future of Healthcare Construction
By Luiza Mills The landscape of healthcare is constantly changing, driven by advancements in medical technology and a deepening understanding of patient well-being. As hospitals, urgent care clinics and medical facilities evolve to meet these needs, a critical, and often unseen, transformation is underway: the dramatic increase in the need for electrical power and infrastructure support. The future of healing and proactive wellness is increasingly reliant on an upgraded electrical infrastructure. The biggest driver of this trend lies in the growing sophistication and power demands of modern medical equipment and advances in...
Beyond Hard Hats: Interstate’s Proactive Approach To Jobsite Safety
Interstate Electrical Services Corporation prioritizes jobsite safety through a proactive and comprehensive approach that begins well before any personnel arrive at the jobsite. Our safety and project strategy is deeply rooted in four key pillars: prioritization of safety and well-being, extensive training programs, the implementation of lean construction methodologies, and the strategic use of prefabrication. By focusing on these critical areas and integrating technology with AI for sophisticated early detection of potential risks, Interstate aims to create safer work environments, reduce potential hazards, and ultimately ensure the well-being of our...
Illuminating the Future: How AI and Advanced Technology are Rewiring the Electrical Trade
The buzz around artificial intelligence is no longer confined to the digital realm; it's electrifying the entire construction industry. At Interstate Electrical Services, a forward-thinking approach to technology, infused with AI tools, is revolutionizing how the AEC industry is managing business and in how commercial buildings are constructed, yielding significant gains in efficiency, accuracy, and ultimately, the bottom line. This technological integration also extends to the critical area of safety, with AI contributing to advanced early detection of potential risks and dangers. From initial labor projections to final installations, AI-powered software...
Ask the Electrician: How Do I Prepare My Commercial Building for a Disaster?
New England’s notorious weather – from fierce winter storms to summer squalls and fall hurricanes – can leave businesses in the dark. While power outages are often blamed on storms, they can also be caused by unforeseen events like accidents or construction mishaps. While it’s impossible to prevent disasters and power outages entirely, proactive preparation can significantly minimize their impact on your commercial building. Here are essential tips to help you safeguard your business against power outages from a disaster: Understand Your Building’s Power Consumption: A fundamental aspect of power outage preparedness...
Interstate Electrical Services’ Luiza Mills Named 2025 ABC Massachusetts Chair
Billerica, Mass. – February 26, 2025 – Interstate Electrical Services Corp. is proud to announce that Senior Vice President Luiza Mills has been named as the 2025 Chair of Associated Builders and Contractors of Massachusetts (ABC MA). Mills brings vast experience and a proven track record of leadership in the construction industry to this esteemed position. "Luiza's selection as ABC MA Chair is a testament to her unwavering dedication to the construction industry and her exceptional leadership abilities," said Jim Alibrandi, President of Interstate Electrical Services. "We are incredibly proud of...
Ask the Electrician: How Do I Set Up EV Charging Stations for my Commercial Property?
Electric vehicle (EV) sales are booming, and offering charging stations at your commercial property is a great way to attract customers, employees, and tenants. EV chargers can be installed anywhere there is access to electricity, however, there are several important factors to consider before installation. Consult a certified electrician to review the EV charger options available for your commercial property and help determine the best fit for your needs. Location: When it comes to location, convenience is key, but so is practicality. Customers often prefer chargers near building entrances, but this...