When a particular circuit in the house is not working, customers commonly call and say something to the effect of, “I checked the electrical panel and there are no tripped circuit breakers,” or “I have reset all the circuit breakers and the circuit is still not working.” After asking them a few questions, I commonly find that the problem can … Continue reading
Tips & Troubleshooting
Check your bulb wattages
Most light fixtures list the maximum wattage bulb somewhere on or near the socket of the fixture. A bulb of too high a wattage may overheat the socket or fixture wiring and result in damage to the light fixture, or possibly a fire hazard. You should never exceed the maximum specified bulb wattage for the fixture. Note: do not just … Continue reading
Bathroom, Kitchen, Garage, Basement or Outside Plugs not Working?
One of the most common service calls we receive is a problem that can often be resolved by the simple push of a button. If you’re experiencing one of the above problems, you may have what is known as a “tripped” GFCI receptacle. Since the 1970’s, the National Electrical Code has required that any receptacle (a.k.a. “plug” or “outlet”) with … Continue reading
Tame those cords!
Cords stretched across walkways may cause someone to trip. Whenever possible, arrange furniture so that outlets are available for lamps and appliances without the use of extension cords. Extension cords should not be used as a substitute for permanent wiring. If you must use an extension cord, place it on the floor against a wall where people cannot trip over … Continue reading
Appliance Power Budgets
Circuits can only handle a specified total wattage of all the electrical products connected to that circuit. If too much wattage is plugged into a circuit, serious electrical problems can result. Here is a guide to knowing what a circuit can handle: 15 ampere branch circuit can carry 1500 watts. 20 ampere branch circuit can carry 2000 watts. Find the … Continue reading
Circuit Breaker Safety
Each year many Americans are injured in and around their homes. Unsafe conditions such as overloaded circuits and damaged insulation as well as the misuse of extension cords and electrical products create fire hazards and may result in electrocutions. Circuit Breaker Panel Potential Electrical Hazards and Their Symptoms Power Outages fuses need replacement or circuit breakers need resetting frequently Overrated … Continue reading
Outlets and Switches
Switches are used to turn the power on and off. Receptacle outlets are usually mounted on a wall or floor to supply electricity to appliances through a cord and plug. Unusually warm or hot outlets or switches may indicate that an unsafe wiring condition exists. Unplug cords from these outlets and do not use the switches. Have a qualified electrician … Continue reading