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Electrical Wiring in the Home/Questions Answered by Expert Benny
| Subject | Date Asked |
| 240 v 2- 3 phase? | 5/9/2011 |
| Q: Can you run 240 v eqiumpent on a regular house ac outlet? 120V i beleive is what's in the house, or ... A: I am sorry to say you cannot run any 3 phase equipment in your house. It would take your local ... | |
| Ceiling Fan w/ remote and wall switch | 4/12/2011 |
| Q: Bedroom with wall switch that operated both a wall receptacle and ceiling fan light. I installed a ... A: Sorry so long in getting back with you. I went online and searched this model for Hunter remotes. ... | |
| Ceiling Fan w/ remote and wall switch | 4/10/2011 |
| Q: Bedroom with wall switch that operated both a wall receptacle and ceiling fan light. I installed a ... A: Can you send me the model of the remote and fan? Most fans with light kit have three wires to hook ... | |
| circuit breaker spec | 4/9/2011 |
| Q: I need to replace a 20 Amp breaker in a GE panel. How do I specify the breaker for locating a ... A: There is two 20 amp breakers available from GE. The thin (1/2" wide) is a THQP120. The thick (1" ... | |
| Wiring | 3/7/2011 |
| Q: I have a 120/240v 100 amp panel that is getting 120v to grd on each phase and 240v between the two ... A: Where are you getting the 150v and 77v to neutral? Is this a sub-panel or main service panel? Is ... | |
| 20 amp dedicated line | 3/3/2011 |
| Q: I am redoing my bathroom and the electrical inspector let me know that I must run a 20 amp dedicated ... A: There is a romex cable called "UF". This cable is made for direct burial but I would recommend ... | |
| 3 new flood lights | 3/2/2011 |
| Q: Can i tap into the source wire to my attic light, drop down to the switch then to the 3 flood ... A: Yes, you should be able to do this without overloading your circuit. Most circuits are not loaded ... | |
| No Voltage Reading at Fan Switch | 2/27/2011 |
| Q: Benny, My ceiling fan stopped working. I took readings at the fan and got a zero reading. I took ... A: I need a little more info from you. You said, "I took that wire and hooked it up to both of my fan ... | |
| NEMA 10-30 plug to 10-50 rcpt | 2/17/2011 |
| Q: I've got a dryer with a NEMA 10-30 plug and a house with a NEMA 10-50 receptacle. Should I replace ... A: Because the dryer has a 10-30 cord and the receptacle is a 10-50 (range), change the receptacle out ... | |
| Wiring a new double gang box from a single box | 2/15/2011 |
| Q: I want to install a single-pole dimmer switch for a series of 4 pot lights in the same box (now a ... A: Which wire or wires are hot in the 14/3? Is this 14/3 coming from the main breaker box? If both ... | |
| disconnecting house from distribution transformer without the aid of the power company | 2/5/2011 |
| Q: if it is possible to disconnect the house from the distribution transformer without the power ... A: Where there is a will...there is a way. Please call them to have this done. It is very unsafe and ... | |
| electircal outlet | 1/28/2011 |
| Q: My manufactured home is 22 years old and never had an electrical problem. Sunday my computer, phone ... A: For a computer to trip a breaker is unusual because they consume so little power. The problem could ... | |
| Sub Panel | 1/18/2011 |
| Q: I need to install a small sub panel as my Square D QO panel is full. I want to buy a 60 amp QO sub ... A: All 120v, 15/20amp branch circuits supplying outlets installed in family rooms, dining rooms, living ... | |
| Sub Panel | 1/17/2011 |
| Q: I need to install a small sub panel as my Square D QO panel is full. I want to buy a 60 amp QO sub ... A: Great job! Everything your wanting to do... is correct. MLO (Main Lug Only) 60amp SQ D sub-panel, ... | |
| puck light installation | 1/16/2011 |
| Q: When installing a single puck light under a cabinet, can I splice the cord wire (which looks like ... A: I will be glad to help you but need more info. Do you already have the puck light or just shopping ... | |
| Repositioning wires in wall | 1/10/2011 |
| Q: I am installing a interior door in my hall to access a room on the other side.when i opened up the ... A: You will need junction boxes at each splice location AND the junction boxes have to be accessible ... | |
| Ceiling Fan Install Job | 1/5/2011 |
| Q: I am installing a new ceiling fan in a room that does not currently have any available overhead ... A: Yes, your on the right track. Run from the fan to the existing switch to get your power. Install a ... | |
| wiring a ciling fan and outlets | 11/11/2010 |
| Q: how can I wire a ceiling from a existing switch that controls a outlets from the living room the ... A: Replace the switch with a "Combo" switch and you will have separate control over the new ceiling fan ... | |
| sockets | 11/10/2010 |
| Q: I have 4 sockets on a circuit that all went out at the same time. I suspect it was caused by an ... A: Always start at the power source and work your way downstream. Normally... a circuit has more than ... | |
| Fusebox Panel Question | 11/5/2010 |
| Q: I have some knowledge of basic electrical knowledge. Recently in the house some of the outlets ... A: Did you ever see lights flickering before they went completely out? Are you using a power tester ... | |
| GE Cooktop partially heating | 11/3/2010 |
| Q: I had to disconnect my cooktop, but after reconnecting it, the burners partially heat. They never ... A: It sounds like the cooktop only has 120 volts to it. Leave the black-red wire connected to the red ... | |
| no neutral leg | 10/26/2010 |
| Q: my house was built in 1986,copper wire. i lost a neutral leg on a dedicated 20 amp circuit for the ... A: Where they are on opposite legs the neutral will carry only the unbalanced amount. In my previous ... | |
| no neutral leg | 10/25/2010 |
| Q: my house was built in 1986,copper wire. i lost a neutral leg on a dedicated 20 amp circuit for the ... A: Using another circuits neutral is unsafe. The neutral is a current carrying conductor and carries ... | |
| panel box identification | 10/23/2010 |
| Q: I have an older mobile home ,how do i know what kind or name of the panel box that is installed A: Somewhere on the panel box, inside or outside, should be a label. Also the breakers should have ... | |
| Household wiring help | 10/22/2010 |
| Q: I had a guy doing some work in my house. He was building a structure in one room that shares a wall ... A: Based on this diagram... everything should work. All wires are connected where they belong. The ... | |
| Household wiring help | 10/21/2010 |
| Q: I had a guy doing some work in my house. He was building a structure in one room that shares a wall ... A: I need to know how many pieces of romex and what colors are in each piece at the switch. I am ... | |
| Household wiring help | 10/20/2010 |
| Q: I had a guy doing some work in my house. He was building a structure in one room that shares a wall ... A: If this is a outlet do this... You will need to go to your local hardware store and get a new "back ... | |
| air conditioner | 10/17/2010 |
| Q: I have a new air conditioner. it has a 15 breaker on the end of the cord. i would like to no if i ... A: If the air conditioner has a inline 15 amp circuit breaker on its cord you should have no problem. ... | |
| Hot Plate and an older house | 10/14/2010 |
| Q: I recently moved into a house that I share with a couple of other tenants. I have a private space I ... A: I have no knowledge of hot plates being fire hazards..unless it is used in a irresponsible way OR ... | |
| Tracing wires | 10/13/2010 |
| Q: I am rewiring my house to rid Aluminum wiring. For reasons, I need to go thru drywall rather than ... A: Yes, there are wire tracers available. You connect a small transmitter to the wire at the breaker ... | |
| Pennant Lighting | 10/12/2010 |
| Q: My ceiling outlet has a black, white and red wire. I hooked up the ceiling pennan light (black to ... A: Your first question mentioned one black, one white and one red in the ceiling outlet box. The ... | |
| replacing outlet in older home | 10/8/2010 |
| Q: Mother's house in Northern Va. built 1952. Toggle switch/AC outlet went bad in hall bathroom. ... A: The most important aspect of replacing switches and outlets is having the new device present at the ... | |
| replacing outlet in older home | 10/8/2010 |
| Q: Mother's house in Northern Va. built 1952. Toggle switch/AC outlet went bad in hall bathroom. ... A: I'm not clear on what you have there... is it a light switch only or a light switch AND outlet in ... | |
| World's simplest electrical wiring problem!! | 10/5/2010 |
| Q: First, thanks Benny, and I'm ultra cheap. My dog ate the 3-prong male plug-in for my Christmas tree ... A: You didn't mention the type of lights. I am assuming, because of the ground, these are the small ... | |
| World's simplest electrical wiring problem!! | 10/4/2010 |
| Q: First, thanks Benny, and I'm ultra cheap. My dog ate the 3-prong male plug-in for my Christmas tree ... A: This is the first time I have heard of Christmas lights having a ground wire. You have to use the ... | |
| power to work shop | 9/28/2010 |
| Q: ok, i am doing a work shop that is about 250-260 feet away from the main breaker box in my home, i ... A: Based on what you say... A 60 amp sub-feed would be sufficient to power your work shop. These ... | |
| different kinds of lighting & which are dimmable | 9/26/2010 |
| Q: we put on an addition & bought several fixtures which we were told would be dimmable. the bulbs are ... A: I have seen two types of GU10 lamps. One was a incandescent and the other a compact fluorescent. ... | |
| 4 wire fan switch | 9/25/2010 |
| Q: I need to replace my 4 wire fan switch for my ceiling fan. What wires go where? I have black, ... A: There is nothing I am aware of that tells manufacturers they must use certain color wires for this ... | |
| 10/3 Outdoor landscape wiring | 9/21/2010 |
| Q: I accidentally cut my 10/3 low voltage landscape wiring and would like to know how to fix it. Am I ... A: Yes, just reconnect the wire ends with wirenuts and wrap with tape. To keep inside part of wirenut ... | |
| dusk to dawn light | 9/4/2010 |
| Q: any idea what would cause a new dusk to dawn security light to go off and on several times during ... A: You did not mention what type of light it was. Depending on the type of fixture, there are two or ... | |
| 2 to 3 wire | 9/2/2010 |
| Q: I am putting in two new light fixtures and a dimmer. The current wire in my home is two wire the ... A: If your home has a two wire system... the lights sometimes were wired different than in present ... | |
| Light switch / Fan | 9/1/2010 |
| Q: I have a ceiling fan with a lamp in my guest bedroom. There are also 2 light switches. One of the ... A: The problem could be at the light switches, fan or both. At switch box, one switch should have two ... | |
| open neutral from 3 dedicated outlets | 8/24/2010 |
| Q: how do i troubleshoot an open neutral A: Locate each outlet and switch on the circuit. Open each outlet or switch and check all neutral ... | |
| Replacing outlet in home | 8/21/2010 |
| Q: First, I have NO knowledge of electricity. I have replaced the outlets and light switches in my home ... A: I got the image. You need to get a foot of 14/2 romex at your local Home Depot. Then you can get ... | |
| Replacing outlet in home | 8/20/2010 |
| Q: First, I have NO knowledge of electricity. I have replaced the outlets and light switches in my home ... A: I did not get your diagram. I am assuming the third wire was connected to the other two ground ... | |
| Replacing outlet in home | 8/18/2010 |
| Q: First, I have NO knowledge of electricity. I have replaced the outlets and light switches in my home ... A: Normally, ALL the ground (bare) wires are put together, under a green cap, with a added short bare ... | |
| Grounding light fixture | 8/17/2010 |
| Q: This is a stupid question, but it's almost bugging me on principle. We hired a contractor to handle ... A: I cannot think of any situations where the ground wire would not be connected. My guess...he was in ... | |
| Downstream outlet from gfci not working | 8/16/2010 |
| Q: Benny, In my kitchen I have a gfci outlet wired properly and functioning. There is only one ... A: A GFCI measures the difference of current flow between the "hot" (black) and neutral (white) ... | |
| Lightning strike | 8/14/2010 |
| Q: I had a lightning strike on my house and 2 garage outlets do not work. I also have 2 celing fans ... A: I cannot tell you why these particular outlets and lights do not work without being there to inspect ... | |
| Rules for branching off of the panel receptacle | 8/11/2010 |
| Q: My former boss has asked me to install two light fixtures in his work place. They will be simple ... A: I do not believe these two lights would require a special circuit, so pickup the power from the ... | |
| electric | 8/9/2010 |
| Q: I have an existing light switch for my bathroom light. The switch has two wires connected that are ... A: The white wire that is capped off is needed. It is the neutral coming from the existing light. You ... | |
| light fixture | 7/24/2010 |
| Q: okay I have replaced a light fixture and now It does not work. It is on a dimmer. I have power all ... A: I am assuming you actually tested the socket, without the bulb in it, by using meter probes to touch ... | |
| Electrical switches | 7/22/2010 |
| Q: just bought a town house and it has a ton of swiches everywhere, all the lights work fine and the ... A: The bathroom plugs are controlled by a GFCI receptacle or breaker. Find all the GFCI receptacles ... | |
| ground wires | 7/18/2010 |
| Q: my home was built in 1952 but the service box has been updated to breakers. There are 2 ground ... A: Got it now. Thanks. If the non-grounded outlets are all on one circuit...the problem is either in ... | |
| ground wires | 7/18/2010 |
| Q: my home was built in 1952 but the service box has been updated to breakers. There are 2 ground ... A: If the indicator light does not come on, it is because you have no ground to the outlet. My home, ... | |
| identifying colors on in home electricil | 7/17/2010 |
| Q: Benny,i am installing new electrical switches in a home and the existing wiring has 14-2 with ... A: The romex cable, 14/2, should only have a black (hot), white (neutral) and a bare (ground) wire. ... | |
| Residential wiring | 7/14/2010 |
| Q: --------- FOLLOW-UP ----------Good Morning Benny, I have a existing line coming in, I want to add ... A: To verbally tell you what to do would be hard because of the size of the job. If you just need ... | |
| Breaker for a Hampton Bay wall unit | 7/11/2010 |
| Q: We have wall unit that sat for a couple years. we wired in a double post 20 amp breaker. Power was ... A: Im sorry... I cannot help you without seeing the unit. There is a name plate somewhere on the unit ... | |
| Wiring outlets | 7/10/2010 |
| Q: I have 3 outlets on 1 wall. I want to control the 1st outlet by the wall switch and the other 2 live ... A: Now I understand what is going on. Thanks for responding. From your switch run either a 14/3 (for ... | |
| Wiring outlets | 7/10/2010 |
| Q: I have 3 outlets on 1 wall. I want to control the 1st outlet by the wall switch and the other 2 live ... A: Do you have a existing switch which now controls all 3 outlets OR just the outlets with no switch? ... | |
| Wiring a dryer | 7/9/2010 |
| Q: Changing wiring from a 3 prong to a 4 prong A: You have two ways to handle this. One, replace the old dryer circuit wires with a new 4 wire cable ... | |
| moving cable box | 7/8/2010 |
| Q: Can you tell me what is involved with moving a cable box 3-4 feet down the wall of our home? Should ... A: Yes the cable tech and electrician can do this. You might want to compare prices between the two ... | |
| 3 prong to 4 prong converter | 7/3/2010 |
| Q: I'm trying to hook up my welder that is 3 prong 50amp-220v to my generator that is 4 prong ... A: The wire not used in your welder plug would be the Neutral (white) conductor. I looked up the ... | |
| Lots of wires in a fixture box (old house) | 7/2/2010 |
| Q: My dad wanted to install an exhaust fan in a powder room. He went and took out the old light ... A: Without being there to see where everything else is in relation to this light, check voltages and ... | |
| flickering fluorescents | 6/30/2010 |
| Q: I installed 7 2x2 fluorescent fixtures about 12 years ago - on two separate switched circuits. The ... A: Sounds like you have done everything normally done to repair the problem. If you are going to ... | |
| outdoor outlets | 6/2/2010 |
| Q: I hope you can help. A few days ago I was starting to pressure wash my deck by the pool area (I live ... A: You have tripped a GFCI receptacle somewhere in your home...probably the garage. The two outlets ... | |
| 60 to 100 amp upgrade | 5/31/2010 |
| Q: My grandparents have a 60-amp service (Detroit Edison) with fuses in their basement. Their house was ... A: I can not answer this since I have not seen the job. It seems like a huge project and VERY ... | |
| Nail through the cable | 5/30/2010 |
| Q: While trying to hang a picture on the wall, thanks to the malfunctioning cable finder, the nail went ... A: You do not have to replace the whole cable. Install a junction box. If you cannot pull enough slack ... | |
| power line into house | 5/29/2010 |
| Q: I added a 2nd story to my house, I am having a electrician from work come over to update the power ... A: He might not be able to turn the power off BUT the power company can. Working this type job "live" ... | |
| 220 wire | 5/28/2010 |
| Q: on the panel i have white on the left black on the right on the plug i have white on the bottom ... A: I am sorry, I do not understand your description. White on left side and black on right side of ... | |
| Melted dryer prong | 5/27/2010 |
| Q: We discovered that our electric dryer was not compatible to plug into the outlet of our new home. ... A: I am guessing the dryer outlet in your new home has four holes in it and the dryer cord only has 3 ... | |
| Floor Lamp | 5/26/2010 |
| Q: I have floor lamp(halogen bulb). The switch has burnt. Can i just remove the switch and connect the ... A: Yes you can, buy why? You can go to Home Depot and get a replacement switch for about $4. After ... | |
| Panasonic Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Heater | 5/24/2010 |
| Q: Can I use a single 20 circuit to power this unit with two switches and how should it be wired. Note: ... A: Yes, you can use a 20 amp circuit. From the breaker box to the switch box, which will house the two ... | |
| outlet problems | 5/23/2010 |
| Q: I have a bathroom outlet that started tripping today and when you push the red button to reset it, ... A: First and easiest, make sure there is power to the GFCI. A GFCI will not reset if there is no power ... | |
| wire size, etc. | 5/19/2010 |
| Q: Please help. I am running power approximately 230' from my garages 90 amp panel to another ... A: Yes, this is correct. This size conductor will supply good voltage at the 40A panel with a 3% ... | |
| installing electric stove outlet | 5/18/2010 |
| Q: I was installing the outlet for an electic stove, after getting all the wires connected to the ... A: Yes, go ahead and splice. Use either a wirenut or crimp butt splice. If you use a wirenut, make ... | |
| adding outdoor gfci | 5/16/2010 |
| Q: I am installing a GFCI outlet on my patio. I am tapping into an existing outlet inside the house. ... A: Tap into the white, bare (ground) and then which ever wire (black or red) is connected to the ... | |
| ground wire damage | 5/15/2010 |
| Q: When drilling through a stud to run electrical wiring I nicked a wire on the other side, which ... A: The ground wire, in my opinion, is the most important conductor in the system. Depending on the ... | |
| conduit size | 5/13/2010 |
| Q: I am running 8/3 wire to a detached garage, I want to run phone line and cable(for hockey games). ... A: For 3 - #8 THHN copper conductors use 1/2" Sch 40 PVC. For 4 - #8 THHN copper conductors use 3/4" ... | |
| electrical problem in the home | 5/10/2010 |
| Q: I'm renting and the lights on the front porch stop working first then the inside only on the left ... A: Flickering lights is a indication of a loose wiring connection or a cut wire. There are numerous ... | |
| "kick plates" | 5/9/2010 |
| Q: My contractor told me to put kick plates on the wires running between 2X4s anywhere that he ran ... A: These are small metal plates that are attached to the surface of the 2 x 4 to protect the romex wire ... | |
| Power Loss | 5/5/2010 |
| Q: I had just installed a dishwasher after having some work done in my kitchen (outlets moved/Lighting ... A: I am assuming nothing was done in the breaker box while remodeling work was going on, right? The ... | |
| Sub panel for work shed | 5/3/2010 |
| Q: I currently have a 200 amp service in my home and would like to set up a 100 amp service in my work ... A: Use 1 copper for the 100 amps at 200 feet, OR 00 aluminum for the 100 amps at 200 feet. Both of ... | |
| Question regarding sub panel | 5/2/2010 |
| Q: I just read your response to the question regarding the sub panel, amperage, and wire size. I am ... A: What can I say...the Inspector, who is the AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction), has the power to ... | |
| Dimmer switch | 4/16/2010 |
| Q: I have a dimmer switch that controls 10 Ea 60 Watt halogen Can lights. The switch has in the past ... A: Yes, it can. You did not mention the size of your dimmer but I am assuming it is rated for 600 ... | |
| Bath Fan Wiring in Older Home | 4/14/2010 |
| Q: I'm trying to install a bath fan/light combo in an older home that was built in the mid-fifties. My ... A: Back in those days it was common practice to install the power wires to the fixture instead of the ... | |
| override a timer | 4/12/2010 |
| Q: I am building a reptile enclosure. The lights are on a timer to simulater night and day, however, I ... A: No, there isn't. You will need to get the type of timer that has a manual override switch built ... | |
| Capping off an unwanted power line | 4/10/2010 |
| Q: In our bedroom, we have a large power outlet ( I suspect for the previous owners adjustable bed). It ... A: After you drop the cord through the floor you must go under the house and put the end of the wire ... | |
| Well pump and timer | 4/9/2010 |
| Q: I have a 240V well pump for use to water the garden. I have all information needed to wire the ... A: The type of timer needs to be a 240 volt since you mentioned the well pump needs 240 volts to ... | |
| ceiling light question | 4/8/2010 |
| Q: Home built 1990 Garage ceiling lights (2). Installed 1st light(furthest from 2 switches)no problem ... A: On ceiling lights, connect all the blacks together including the fixture black. The do the same ... | |
| Gfi | 4/6/2010 |
| Q: Not receiving power to my GFI outlet A: The GFCI protected outlets are on one circuit. Check all your 15 and 20 amp breakers to see if one ... | |
| 240v wiring issue | 4/1/2010 |
| Q: I'm having issues w/ my dryer not getting enough power to run all functions properly. I have tested ... A: You have a split-buss panel. There will not be a main shut-off with this type. Test the breaker to ... | |
| bathroom timer | 3/30/2010 |
| Q: I bought a decor electronic timer and I am confused with the wiring. The instructions indicate that ... A: You must find which black wire goes to the bath fan or light. This black wire connects to the blue ... | |
| Sudden outlet failure! | 3/28/2010 |
| Q: I was microwaving coffee when the TV and all the other things in the room that were plugged into the ... A: Sorry your having such a problem. I applaud your desire to diagnose the problem and take the steps ... | |
| unbalanced sub-panel | 3/24/2010 |
| Q: I have a 60amp sub panel. I checked all connection they are good ??? On L1 25amps on L2 6 amps on ... A: Different readings on L1, L2 & the Neutral are common. These readings depend on how your circuits ... | |
| Home Ceiling Light Wiring | 3/23/2010 |
| Q: Trying to install a florescent ceiling light and not sure how to connect the wires: The box has: Two ... A: This is unusual. Based on your description, there must be another white wire in the box. Was there ... | |
| reverse polarity outlets | 3/22/2010 |
| Q: I recently bought a log cabin that has had an addition built on to it. All of the outlets in the ... A: One thing is clear...the problem is in the addition circuit, right? I know you have checked the ... | |
| installation of GFCI receptacle/switch | 3/14/2010 |
| Q: How do I wire a combination GFCI receptacle/switch so the outlet works and the switch turns the ... A: I need more information to help you. In the outlet box...how many cables come into it and how many ... | |
| Buzzing GFI breaker | 3/13/2010 |
| Q: The GFI breaker in my control box is making a loud buzzing sound. It isn't trip and everything is ... A: When you turn it off the sound stops, right? Does it buzz all the time are just sometimes? Some ... | |
| GFI | 3/12/2010 |
| Q: I have a GFI that keeps tripping when any load at all is put on it. There are 5 outlets connected to ... A: The GFI does not care how much current it is measuring. The GFI measures the current going to the ... | |
| Lots of Electrical Things | 3/11/2010 |
| Q: You may remember me from the crazy problems I have been having issues with my new electric dryer and ... A: I am sorry to say I cannot recall this particular electrical problem. I applaud your desire to ... | |
| Fan Light combo | 3/10/2010 |
| Q: Ok. I am trying to hook up a new fan/light combo and would like them to operate separately. From ... A: Sorry... taking so long to get back with you. This would be the normal way of wiring this...power ... | |
| Fan Light combo | 3/9/2010 |
| Q: Ok. I am trying to hook up a new fan/light combo and would like them to operate separately. From ... A: I need additional information.... please send me a follow-up question. How many wires come into the ... | |
| home electrical | 3/8/2010 |
| Q: i have 30 v in a 110 v wall outlet what next A: You probably have a loose or damaged neutral (white conductor) OR a defective outlet. Change the ... | |
| Older window ac unit with three wires to four prong outlet | 2/22/2010 |
| Q: Recently rebuilt our home. Kept a window ac/heater unit. It had been wired into a 220v box (plug ... A: If it is easy to put your removed plug back on the cord, I would recommend doing this. Change your ... | |
| switches | 2/21/2010 |
| Q: I've connected my switch to a nearby outlet and the switch to the light. When I turn my power back ... A: Sounds like the wires in the switch box are not connected right. This is fairly simple to correct. ... | |
| Light Switch | 2/20/2010 |
| Q: I had a light switch that was crackling when I turned it on or off. I picked up a new one at Home ... A: In the process of removing and reconnecting the new switch the wires were not connected back the ... | |
| POWER LOSS | 2/19/2010 |
| Q: WHILE TURNING ON A BASEBOARD HEATER I LOST POWER TO THE OUTLET AND ANOTHER OUTLET DOWN FROM IT. I ... A: Yes, you could have a bad outlet. Try this...get a voltage tester, remove your breaker box cover ... | |
| light switch | 2/17/2010 |
| Q: Our house is about 50 years old. Single light switch controls ceiling light. Two days ago, wouldn't ... A: Sounds like your replacement switch might be bad. Do this...turn off the breaker suppling power to ... | |
| no ground receptacle replacement | 2/16/2010 |
| Q: I was asked to replace the recepts in a friends house. They are old 15A recepts with no ground. ... A: You are not required to provide a ground in existing outlet boxes. You have options when replacing ... | |
| Open Neutral on three outlets | 2/14/2010 |
| Q: I have three outlets to the right of my stove; two to the left (no problem). The three work ... A: The "Open Neutral" is one of the harder problems to find, especially since it is occurring ... | |
| Ground fault wiring | 2/13/2010 |
| Q: I remodeled my kitchen and I needed 2 circuits for my countertop with 5 additional outlets on each ... A: FYI: With this kind of wiring installation you have to use a double pole breaker to supply power to ... | |
| circuit breaker tripping | 2/11/2010 |
| Q: Just moved into newly built home two weeks ago and the circuit breaker labeled family room has ... A: I am suspecting the breakfast light might be the cause based on the flickering you reported. Lights ... | |
| Breaker throwing | 2/10/2010 |
| Q: Came home today and bathroom lights do not work in either one. Checked the breaker and it was ... A: The breaker is detecting something on this circuit to overload the breaker. The circuit is probably ... | |
| 3ways with multiple can light on a dimmer | 2/7/2010 |
| Q: 7 cans in basement. 3way at the top of steps and i want to have a dimmer at the bottom. is the ... A: The 3-way dimmer has wires to connect to and the 3-way switch has screws...the only difference. The ... | |
| Wiring | 2/6/2010 |
| Q: I am replacing a Fluorescent fixtures with a track lighting system. I remove the first fluorscent ... A: You need to install a plastic light box, called a "cut-in box". They are available at your ... | |
| Faulty light switches? | 2/5/2010 |
| Q: I purchased a new construction in July 2008. I've had several light switches fail on me or ... A: The burn mark on the screw is a sign of arching...this is not good. I also noticed the plastic box ... | |
| Hard wire | 2/4/2010 |
| Q: Have purchased a water heater for my RV and is stated that the electric component must be "hard ... A: Hard Wired means to connect directly to the power wires. Sometimes a hot water heater is connected ... | |
| Bathroom Light Fixture wiring | 2/3/2010 |
| Q: I have a new fixture that is a 2 bulb fixture. Both lights have a black & white wire coming out of ... A: It sounds like the power source for the light is located at the light, not the switch. It just a ... | |
| No lights in bathroom | 2/2/2010 |
| Q: I have no lights in my bathroom. Although, I have used a neon tester on the switch and the point ... A: You might have lost the neutral (white) conductor which completes the path back to the breaker box. ... | |
| Installing a NuTone Ceiling Fan Light M736RLN | 1/31/2010 |
| Q: This is a replacement installation for an older Ceiling Fan Light My existing home wiring has a ... A: On your new fan/light...the blue and black wires are the power wires for the light and fan. If you ... | |
| I need to replace my old 3 way house light switches | 1/28/2010 |
| Q: The switches are stamped 5A 250V 10A 125V. I tried replacing them with newer 15A 120V but they ... A: You can use either 15A or 20A 120v three way switches. I don't understand why the 15A didn't work. ... | |
| 125 amp panel | 1/24/2010 |
| Q: i installed a 125 amp panel in my garage , my panel says 125 amp 1 or 3 phase. i hooked up my main ... A: I would put the hot wires on the two outside posts. Don't forget that 1/3rd of the bars will be ... | |
| double outlet | 1/21/2010 |
| Q: I recently smelled wires burning on my double outlet and it went away. Tonight i heard crackling and ... A: Has this happened before? Do you have copper or aluminum wire? Was anything plugged into this ... | |
| light won't shut off | 1/20/2010 |
| Q: I just installed a light for my next door neighbor, elderly lady. I've put up 100's of lights ... ... A: This problem should be a matter of the wrong wires being hooked up OR the the right wires be hooked ... | |
| electrical | 1/18/2010 |
| Q: i am upgrading from 100 amp to 200 amp does the main wires above the eletric meter need to be ... A: Yes the wires need changing. Normally, if your service wires are run through the air, the Service ... | |
| circuit Breaker | 1/17/2010 |
| Q: Just bought a hot water heater require a 60 amp circuit Breaker with 6/2 wire. Can I Convert a 60 ... A: Sorry to say you cannot. The 8/2 wire would still be rated for only 40 amps...not 60. That is one ... | |
| Multiple 3 way switches in a single box | 1/16/2010 |
| Q: I have 3, 3 way switches going into one elec box. The other box (at the end of the wires)also has 3, ... A: Yes, you can install as suggested. Between the two 3-gang switch boxes, run 1-12/3 and 2-12/2. ... | |
| Adding Light Fixture to Existing Circuit | 1/12/2010 |
| Q: I'm adding a vanity light in my bathroom. Currently the light circuit enters a 2-gangbox and is ... A: You should have no problem in doing this. Most circuits are designed for small loads to be added ... | |
| converting a 3 prong wall outlet to a 4 prong wall outlet for Whirlpool range | 1/10/2010 |
| Q: Just purchased a new electric range which has a 4 prong plug. The wall outlet is a 3 prong outlet ... A: The extra wire on your range is the white (neutral). This wire provides a insulated wire for any ... | |
| wiring 2 switches to one light | 1/7/2010 |
| Q: I am remodeling in my basement and I am having a little difficulty wiring a set of lights. Upstairs, ... A: Yes you can. This is referred to as a 3-way setup. At one switch location install the power wire ... | |
| Smoking CFL - Bulb or WIring? | 1/6/2010 |
| Q: My tenant has a CFL installed above his kitchen sink. The enclosure is recessed with a glass cover ... A: When it comes to rental property and tenants you cannot be jeopardizing your liabilities. I have ... | |
| Wall installation of timer | 12/13/2009 |
| Q: I am installing a wall single pole timer. In the wall is a pink wire ,a black wire and a ground. On ... A: I do not think this timer is going to work for you. You didn't mention but I am assuming the timer ... | |
| bathroom light blows bulbs | 12/12/2009 |
| Q: I have an old bathroom light fixture that has one bulb and one plug-in on it and it started blowing ... A: I am assuming this problem is isolated to this fixture and no others...right? For this reason I ... | |
| outlets in garage | 12/11/2009 |
| Q: I had christmas lights plugged into an outlet on the outside of the garage. I believe that some snow ... A: The outlet must be protected by a GFCI somewhere...possible in the garage. These are the outlets ... | |
| stove wiring | 12/10/2009 |
| Q: Should I be concerned if my stove wire from the stove to the breaker box is # 10 and my breaker is a ... A: Yes, you should be concerned. If you have 10 gauge wire the breaker should be no higher than a 30. ... | |
| gfci, shower IC can light, switch wiring | 12/8/2009 |
| Q: I live in New England and just installed a new dedicated GFCI line for my main bathroom (the ... A: If you had wanted to protect the shower light with GFCI protection you needed one more 12/2 from the ... | |
| pulling 115v from a 230v and adding a ground | 12/7/2009 |
| Q: House built 1954. 115 is two wire and 230v is three. I have added a few new 115 circuits with a ... A: You already have everything you need for the 115 receptacle. The 230 stove has 3 conductors ... | |
| gfci, shower IC can light, switch wiring | 12/5/2009 |
| Q: I live in New England and just installed a new dedicated GFCI line for my main bathroom (the ... A: I need more information. Tell me what wires you have installed for the shower light and shower ... | |
| Split receptacle | 12/3/2009 |
| Q: I would like to wire a split receptacle so that both the top and bottom are controlled by separate ... A: Yes, it is possible. On the one side of the receptacle there are two "gold" screws. Break the ... | |
| Sub PNL | 12/2/2009 |
| Q: Have 200amp main, outside. Put service pnl in garage 2' away. To not hack up the framing I used 2 ... A: According to the National Electrical Code, all conductors of the same circuit must be contained ... | |
| Breaker tripping | 12/1/2009 |
| Q: We have a home that is 8 years old. The wiring is half 10-2 and the other half is 12-2 wiring. The ... A: A rule of thumb is 600 square feet for each general lighting circuit. Lets see... 40 breakers ... | |
| sensor light | 11/12/2009 |
| Q: I am hoping you can help me out, I want to hook up a sensor light outside and the electrical box has ... A: Yes, connect the black fixture wire to the other black wires and the white fixture wire to the other ... | |
| Loss of Power to Ceiling Lights | 11/9/2009 |
| Q: I recently removed my kitchen lights. The ceiling remained lightless for a week or so while I ... A: I have a feeling something was not connected back the same way. Maybe a wire was pushed out of the ... | |
| wiring for ceiling fanhoe do you | 11/8/2009 |
| Q: how do you hook up the switches when you want to control the ceiling fan and the light on separate ... A: There are several ways to do this depending on the wiring configuration of your home. For this ... | |
| Outlets go dead | 11/7/2009 |
| Q: Benny, Thanks for your time and help. Have two circuits at opposite ends of the house that quit ... A: This is a tough one to solve. It takes a lot of patience and time. You will need a multimeter to ... | |
| can light in kitchen | 11/6/2009 |
| Q: I read over some information on fixes for can lights going out. The attic space is clear around the ... A: Are there other lights on the same switch which are working? If so...the problem is in the ... | |
| wall outlets | 11/3/2009 |
| Q: Just bought a house with the garage all finished. Only one outlet in it. If I add surface mounted ... A: Yes, you can use PVC conduit. Also PVC outlet boxes, instead of metal, if you wish. Just make sure ... | |
| Kitchen ceiling lights | 11/1/2009 |
| Q: We have 12 recessed ceiling lights in our kitchen ceiling; each has a 100 watt bulb. I would like to ... A: The existing wire (should be no smaller than 14 gauge) will be able to handle the chandelier. The ... | |
| new 15 amp circuit | 10/28/2009 |
| Q: Benny - I'm baaaaack!! I'm the guy who asked about extending a 20 amp circuit with 14 gauge wire. ... A: Hey John, No, you should not try to replace the buss bars. The panel was UL tested and listed just ... | |
| 3 way switch | 10/26/2009 |
| Q: I have installed a ceiling fan and want to wire it into a 3 way switch, I have wired it up every ... A: Weather you can do this will depend on several factors. There are probably 10-15 possible ... | |
| burnt wires | 10/25/2009 |
| Q: i installed a new light where a old light was and the bulbs keep burning out in about a week then ... A: The burnt wires are usually because of a loose connection to the power wires coming into the light's ... | |
| Load Center MB / MLO | 10/22/2009 |
| Q: I've got a 30 slot / 30 circuit Cutler Hammer CH load center in my basement. I've got one slot left ... A: I see nothing wrong with you using the MB panel. Actually, it would provide you extra convenience ... | |
| 220V/# 10 3 wire | 10/21/2009 |
| Q: I am installing a ductless air conditioner in an add-on room. can I come off a 20 amp breaker with ... A: Yes you can. Please follow the recommendations in the instructions or manual. The black and white ... | |
| 14 gauge wire on a 20 amp circuit | 10/18/2009 |
| Q: When I moved into my new home, I realized right away that the garage needed shop lights and outlets. ... A: The 14 gauge wire is rated for 15 amps. If you put it on a 20 amp breaker, the breaker could have ... | |
| 14 gauge wire on a 20 amp circuit | 10/17/2009 |
| Q: When I moved into my new home, I realized right away that the garage needed shop lights and outlets. ... A: With respect to the local Electrical Code, I can not say yes or no. You need to research or get in ... | |
| GFCI outlets | 10/16/2009 |
| Q: I have two out fountain pumps which are plugged in to individual GFCI receptacles on seperate ... A: The GFCI's are for your protection and do not have any to do with the operation of the pumps. Yes, ... | |
| 3 Way Switch - Dim Fixtures? | 10/14/2009 |
| Q: I am having an issue with a 3 way switch layout I just installed whereby the fixtures are all very ... A: Questions to think about: Have you measured the voltage? Do the lights dim with the 3/way switches ... | |
| electrical | 10/11/2009 |
| Q: I am replacing a wall heater that is 240v with a 120v. What do I do with the second wire on the 240 ... A: Yes, replace the two pole breaker with two (2) single pole breakers. The second wire will be capped ... | |
| Low outlet Voltage | 10/10/2009 |
| Q: Hey i live in Australia, recently bought a multifunction energy meter and plugged it in. The supply ... A: The voltage varies according to resistance. Look for loose wire connections in the wiring system. ... | |
| electrical | 10/9/2009 |
| Q: Can you tell me what awg copper cable size to put inside a 2" electrical conduit for 240' run ... A: You would need this: #3 gauge copper wires rated for 75 degrees. Yes, you do need a separate ... | |
| wiring gfci | 10/7/2009 |
| Q: i have two seperate gfci circuits in a kitchen, can i use a seperate gfci recept. in every place and ... A: Yes you can. To do this, do not connect the wires to the "load" side of the GFCI receptacle. At ... | |
| wire gauge for distance | 10/6/2009 |
| Q: I have a cottage I want to wire to 100 amps. Power shed is approx 240' distance (this allows for ... A: You mentioned "cottage" and "power shed". Are these the same? I am assuming the following: 100 ... | |
| Splicing in a switch to turn light bar on/off. | 10/4/2009 |
| Q: I got a 4 bulb light bar for my sister's bathroom.The fixture has a white wire a black wire and a ... A: The turn switch should have two black wires. Take one of these black wires and connect to the wire ... | |
| Bad Fuse? | 10/2/2009 |
| Q: Three days ago our stove/range quit working. I thought it was just that the unit was bad and thought ... A: Fuses do not blow by accident. It highly unlikely your fuse was bad if you purchased it new. ... | |
| Lights don't work? fan does.... | 9/14/2009 |
| Q: We recently bought a new house and the living room has a ceiling fan with lights in it. There is a ... A: The light switch might not work the fan lights. I would suggest checking all the outlets in the ... | |
| Wiring for built in ovens | 9/10/2009 |
| Q: I have a microwave and thermal oven. Replacing with 2-convection ovens. I have one circuit with ... A: The 2008 National Electrical Code (210.19(A)(3) Exception 1) says this, "Conductors tapped from a ... | |
| 220 a gfci aand a hottub | 9/9/2009 |
| Q: I'm installing a 40A 2-pole CH GFCI breaker in a Square-D panel that is supplying a hot tub. The 8-3 ... A: Try this... You mentioned a 8-3 cable suppling power to the sub-panel. I am assuming you have a ... | |
| second circuit break box | 9/8/2009 |
| Q: How do you add a second circuit breaker box to an existing circuit breaker box? Currently I have a ... A: Install a 4-wire (red (power), black (power), white (neutral) and green (ground)) cable to the new ... | |
| adding outlet to single pole switch | 9/5/2009 |
| Q: I just tried to add an outlet to a single pole switch and found that the outlet is only hot when the ... A: Are there any other wires in the box and what color? Normally a white wire on a switch indicated a ... | |
| Switch Location | 9/2/2009 |
| Q: I'm buying a new home. The build installed the switches for the garbage disposal and the dishwasher ... A: The National Electrical Code has no restrictions on the location of the switches as long as there ... | |
| single pole switch to split circuit | 8/28/2009 |
| Q: i was wondering if you could tell me how to wire a single pole switch to a duplex split receptacle ... A: Without more information I cannot be very specific. Are you adding a new switch or do you want to ... | |
| 240 volt power line | 8/24/2009 |
| Q: I have a 240 volt power line that was for my range. The range was replaced with a gas range. and the ... A: Yes you can. If the old range circuit has 4 conductors...black (power), red (power), white ... | |
| sub panel to sub panel installation | 8/23/2009 |
| Q: I have a 200A main panel. One circuit going to the garage is a 220V 30 A. I am building a workshop ... A: Yes you can do this. Just remember to install four (4) conductors to each of the sub-panels. This ... | |
| Power supply to shed | 8/22/2009 |
| Q: I am planning on running an underground 110 V electric service from my house’s breaker box to my ... A: The size wire for UF would be #4 gauge copper based on a 3% voltage drop. If you can increase the ... | |
| ceiling fan stopped working | 8/21/2009 |
| Q: Our boys' two year old ceiling fan stopped working last night and I am trying to find out what the ... A: The first item to check...Do the switches have power going into them? I will assume this is true ... | |
| Thermal protection | 8/19/2009 |
| Q: I have to old square recessed Lights in my basement. On of the lights turns on and off periodically. ... A: Yes, it can be faulty. Lightolier brand recess lights are the only manufacturer I know of that ... | |
| combo switch | 8/18/2009 |
| Q: i just bought an outlet/switch combo(onethat has a switch on top to control the light and an outlet ... A: What your missing is the neutral for the outlet. On the side of the new combo should be a silver ... | |
| Power to Garage | 8/16/2009 |
| Q: What is by "Open Ground" & "Open Hot" A: The term "open" refers to the continuity along the path of the ground or hot (power) wire has been ... | |
| Ground Wiring in Outlets | 8/15/2009 |
| Q: Is it best to pigtail onto ground wires in an outlet or simple twist the ground wires together and ... A: You should always use a twist-on (wirenut) wire connector when connecting small wires. A special ... | |
| Surge Protection | 8/14/2009 |
| Q: I installed a "clock" receptacle (http://www.levitonsupplies.com/lewhsiclre68.html) on the wall ... A: I am sorry to say that a GFCI is not a surge protector. It monitors the current between the neutral ... | |
| knob and tube wiring | 8/13/2009 |
| Q: I'm renovating an older home with K&T wiring. I've taken off all the plaster/lath in the areas ... A: Yes it is possible to share neutrals. Since the neutral carries the same current as the hot wire ... | |
| Convert 220 to 110 v | 8/12/2009 |
| Q: I don't have 110v line in my kitchen to plug in our refrigerator. How can I change a 220v line to ... A: If your 220 line has four (4) wires...a red, a black, a white and a ground. Use the red OR black as ... | |
| ELECTRICAL | 8/11/2009 |
| Q: LOST ELECTRICAL POWER IN BATHROOM CEILING LIGHT AND OUTLET. ALSO LOST POWER IN THE BEDROOM CEILING ... A: Get a voltage meter and test the breaker at the terminal where the circuit wire is connected to the ... | |
| Outdoor dual floods night/day sensor | 8/9/2009 |
| Q: one flood works and one does not. I checked wiring. All White to white and each set of black/reds ... A: I am assuming this is one flood fixture with two heads and a photo cell attached AND the fixture was ... | |
| garage wiring | 8/7/2009 |
| Q: I have an existing somewhat oversized 2 car garage and I have some wiring questions. The garage is ... A: I would recommend the following: Put the saws on one 20 amp circuit together. (If there is a CHANCE ... | |
| Lighting circuit layout | 8/6/2009 |
| Q: I have a single circuit that will have multiple lighting zones (not exceeding 400 W) each controlled ... A: I would recommend a neutral per circuit. The neutral wire carries the same current as the hot wire ... | |
| power for my ac | 8/5/2009 |
| Q: My A.C. has cut off. It works fine, when it is running. The breaker did not trip. I replaced the ... A: Sounds like you need a air conditioning technician to look at it. I don't think you have a ... | |
| bathroom lights | 8/3/2009 |
| Q: Recently I noticed my light over the shower goes on and off repeatedly when I flip it on. I then ... A: There are three possible causes of the light doing this. 1. First off, because it is easy, change ... | |
| Installing new flood light | 7/8/2009 |
| Q: Hey, I recently put a new pool in my backyard and I'm trying to install a new flood light on the ... A: Yes the switch will work. The extension cord use is disallowed by code...using it in the manner you ... | |
| 50 amp dual breaker | 7/6/2009 |
| Q: I have replaced a 50 amp stove top with a gas top, I want to use this 50 amp service in a new ... A: The 50 amp stove wire must have a neutral wire with it. Hopefully the stove wire has four (4) ... | |
| smoke alarm chirping | 7/5/2009 |
| Q: My smoke detectors were all working fine but suddenly one of them is chirping--replaced battery, ... A: I have heard the reasons for chirping is low battery, detector at end of service life, interconnect ... | |
| 220 wiring | 7/2/2009 |
| Q: What size wire do I use to wire a 220 volt air compressor, the distance from the circuit panel is no ... A: To determine this I will need more information. Look on the equipment and find the "Name plate". ... | |
| length and size of wire | 6/30/2009 |
| Q: I want to run electricity to my garage which is about 130 feet away from the panel. I just need 110 ... A: This depends on the load to be served. I need the table saw and the planer information to determine ... | |
| Ungrounded Outlet | 6/29/2009 |
| Q: I discovered that an outlet in my grandmother's kitchen is not grounded. I check the connection, but ... A: It has been working like this for decades? I do not think it is too bad... a lot of older houses ... | |
| Kitchen light still shows current when switched off. | 6/28/2009 |
| Q: I'm a home remodeler, and am currently working in a residence. My client has a kitchen light that ... A: My question is could this be the reason there is current going to the light?....I don't believe so, ... | |
| Put new AC Outlet in my home | 6/27/2009 |
| Q: I needed a new Ac Outlet plug in my living room, so what i did is i went to home depot, and ... A: At the service, the white (neutrals) and the grounds are connected (bonded) to the same point. ... | |
| Power issue | 6/26/2009 |
| Q: I recently started my gas dryer. It ran for about 3 seconds then shut down. It also shut all of ... A: If the breaker only trips when the dryer is turned on... Something inside the dryer must be ... | |
| Wiring for a ceiling fan to a light | 6/25/2009 |
| Q: I am replacing a ceiling fan with a light fixture. There is a white, black and red wire with just ... A: Sounds like you did everything correctly. What you did is the way I would have done it. There must ... | |
| Interchangeable circuit breakers | 6/24/2009 |
| Q: Is there a sight that will tell whether Challenger, Square D and Seimens circuit breakers are ... A: I am aware of any sight like this. You should always match the breaker box with the same brand of ... | |
| Multiple run outlets | 6/23/2009 |
| Q: I am replacing 5 outlets in one of my bedrooms I have full power to the first outlet but only ... A: Sounds like you have a wall switch controlling one or more of the outlets. You normally don't see a ... | |
| half of my lights went out | 6/21/2009 |
| Q: I live in a fairly new townhouse complex and I was watching tv at around midnight when half of my ... A: If you have a single power feed from the utility company either their power source went bad or the ... | |
| two single pole motion sensing switches | 6/19/2009 |
| Q: how can i hook up two single pole motion sensing switches in a hall way ? there cooper if it ... A: The motion switch (single pole) should be wired with one black going to the power source wire and ... | |
| Outside wiring underground | 6/18/2009 |
| Q: As part building a flower bed I notice that the wiring to front yard security light was no more than ... A: This romax should be type "UF". 1) Direct Burial Cables - 24" 2) Rigid Metal Conduit - 6" 3) ... | |
| overload | 6/17/2009 |
| Q: can two 1875w hair dryers and one 95w curling iron, all being in use at the same time, overload a ... A: Yes they can...if fact two 20a circuits. A 1875w hair dryer pulls 15.6 amps. This times two equals ... | |
| 20 Amp Outlet | 6/16/2009 |
| Q: If my circuit is 15 Amp, can I use a 20 Amp outlet. I'm pretty sure I can go down in amps (20 Amp ... A: Yes you can put a 20 amp GFCI device on a 15 amp circuit. The size of the device does not determine ... | |
| outlets on kitchen island | 6/14/2009 |
| Q: I have four outlets and two switches on the kitvhen island. The switches work, one for disposal and ... A: These outlets are protected by a GFCI outlet or breaker. Find the GFCI's (all of them) and test ... | |
| power at outlets | 6/13/2009 |
| Q: A neon tester shows power to outlets but appliances (toaster, blender, etc.) will not work when ... A: First...do you have a outlet tester that has 3 lights on it. This tester will diagnose the problem ... | |
| open circuit at celing light | 6/12/2009 |
| Q: I have a problem changing out a ceiling light. There are three pairs coming into the box on the ... A: In the light box you have three pairs (white, black and ground) of cables coming into box. One pair ... | |
| Wiring | 6/10/2009 |
| Q: I want to put an additional outlet on the end of a indoor 20amp circuit. The last outlet on the ... A: Depending on how you connect the 12-2 at the last outlet will determine whether the new outlet is ... | |
| 2 questions - Valence lights and installing 2 3-way switches | 6/9/2009 |
| Q: I want to get valence wiring run for my kitchen cabinets, what do I need to keep in mind? I have a u ... A: Sounds like you have a huge undertaking coming up. Your questions are good but I cannot answer them ... | |
| Wiring a light-light-switch | 5/26/2009 |
| Q: I am wiring in 2 light fixtures with the switch at the end of the wire circuit. In the diagrams I ... A: I am recommending you visit this web site for do-it-yourselfer's. Here is the address: ... | |
| Two rooms without power | 5/25/2009 |
| Q: Last night we lost power in only two of the rooms of our house. The two rooms are connected but we ... A: Make sure you have power leaving the breaker. If so, you will need to remove and inspect all ... | |
| L1 L2 | 5/24/2009 |
| Q: I am changing out a controller for a 220 swamp cooler the new diagram shows L1 and L2. The existing ... A: I am not familiar with the swamp cooler but normally L1 & L2 represents 220v and it does not matter ... | |
| 240V wiring | 5/23/2009 |
| Q: I have a new hot tub I am wanting to wire up to an existing A/C disconnect box that was installed ... A: "Inside the pullout are a #6 black and red wire connected to the line side terminals and a bare ... | |
| Half Switched outlet | 5/21/2009 |
| Q: Here is my scenario. I currently have one GFCI receptacle outside my house that is controlled by a ... A: I am sorry but I am not aware of a GFCI receptacle that has the capability of being split (half ... | |
| outlet | 5/19/2009 |
| Q: HELP! I have an outdoor outlet on my house that has kicked the reset. I have already replaced the ... A: You should not eliminate this type of protection. It is there to protect you and your family from ... | |
| Wiring a 30 amp 250 volt receptical | 5/18/2009 |
| Q: Sir, I am trying to wire a 30 amp 250 volt twist lock 3 prong plug so that I can plug in a truck ... A: If your load (freezer) is straight 240 volt, you do not need a neutral wire...only two hots and a ... | |
| installing multiple fans in same curcuit, one runs backward-why? | 5/17/2009 |
| Q: i am replacing ceiling fans in my den. the old fans were controlled by a single variable speed ... A: I have seen this happen before at a recreation center ballroom where they had six (6) ceiling fans ... | |
| Wiring and grounding | 5/16/2009 |
| Q: I have a house built in 2008. While opening up a light switch and a receptacle box to change a ... A: Maybe they are using another color to represent the ground wire. Have you checked other outlets? ... | |
| existing 230 wiring but wires don't match | 5/15/2009 |
| Q: I have an old 230V welder wired into the circuit box with 50A that I don't need. I need to wire in ... A: Depending on where the welder wires go in the circuit box will determine how to connect the new ... | |
| Fan Wiring | 5/13/2009 |
| Q: I have three wires (hot, ground and a neutral). I am trying to hook the wires to a fan that has 2 ... A: When you say, "two inputs", I am assuming your describing one for the light and one for the fan. If ... | |
| grounding a service entrance | 5/12/2009 |
| Q: there are 4 ways to ground a service entrance.on way is using ground rods but i am stuck to what the ... A: Here they are... 1) Rod and pipe electrodes not less than 8 ft in length. 2) An electrode encased ... | |
| Installing switch/receptacles | 5/11/2009 |
| Q: I'm having trouble replacing a switch/receptacle in which the switch controls a light and the ... A: Was the switch/plug working before? If so, one of the black wires is the hot. This is the wire ... | |
| Voltage | 5/10/2009 |
| Q: I have my generator feeding my house right now and am reading 130 v at my recepticals. Will my ... A: Yes there is a possibility of damage. Normally each appliance will have a name tag attached to it ... | |
| Whole house surge protector | 5/9/2009 |
| Q: We have a three\ computers, a new 26" HDTV (expanding to more HDTVs in the future), one A/C, three ... A: All the items you mentioned are good. You cannot over design surge protection. If you install a ... | |
| grounded boxes | 5/7/2009 |
| Q: I would like to change some old light switches and when I removed the cover plate and unscrewed the ... A: If you see no ground wire (green or bare) in the box then there probably is no ground. The box is ... | |
| Wiring | 5/6/2009 |
| Q: I am going to put in a couple of power vent attic fans. Running a new circuit to the attic will be ... A: I am confused why you don't want to utilize the gas furnace 120v circuit. In my part of the country ... | |
| ??? after home inspection on wiring | 5/5/2009 |
| Q: Inspector found 12 outlets in 40 year old brick home weren't grounded while some other in home were. ... A: Being that some were grounded and some not I would have the sellers get a qualified electrician to ... | |
| Wiring help needed | 5/4/2009 |
| Q: How do you wire up 2 light switches together with one hot wire? A: Two ways to do this. One...Take a small piece of wire (hot) and go from one screw to the other ... | |
| Nutone 665RP Wiring | 5/3/2009 |
| Q: I am in the process of installing a new/replacement bathroom light/fan/heater. The model is a ... A: For this unit to work properly you must have three switch legs (hots) from the switch to the unit. ... | |
| track lighting and bath moisture | 4/22/2009 |
| Q: I am installing a track light with (3) 50W halogen bulbs in a small bathroom that has a clawfoot tub ... A: I have two concerns. First off...depending on your ceiling height this might not be acceptable ... | |
| Problem with several AC outlets in the kitchen | 4/21/2009 |
| Q: Now of course the next comment is change the breaker. Well what we did is take the wire feeding the ... A: Did you submit a previous question to another expert? Your comments sound like there might be prior ... | |
| Switch wiring | 4/19/2009 |
| Q: I just tried to change 2 light switches in my living room. One switch was for the porch light and ... A: I have missed something here. You mentioned two (2) switches. I see only one (1) described ... | |
| central air wiring problem | 4/15/2009 |
| Q: have a little problem.just wondering if u can give me an idea.i just change my service panel to 100 ... A: "20 amp double pole breaker used.said on the c.a unit is 25 ampheres max.am i using right breaker or ... | |
| Wiring switches | 4/14/2009 |
| Q: I had to move a 3-gang set to another wall and I found something I have never seen before. All the ... A: Normally all the whites (neutrals) are connected together in the switch box. The blacks are used to ... | |
| Size of wire for run | 4/12/2009 |
| Q: I am installing a 50 amp breaker for a RV carport. The carport is 150 feet from my subpanel, what ... A: I am assuming the voltage of the 50 amp circuit is 240 volts. For that distance you should use #4 ... | |
| light switch with outside light | 4/9/2009 |
| Q: how do i wire up a light switch and an outside light , the box on the wall has two switches and when ... A: It would be hard to determine what your doing wrong without getting a lot more information from you. ... | |
| i live in a apment | 4/7/2009 |
| Q: i have a 3 way switche that wont trun off any thing and it two a plug in the wall is waht ... A: I can't really do anything without more information. If the manager says the switches work on the ... | |
| copper wire | 4/6/2009 |
| Q: What size copper wire should be used for 125 ft. 15 A branch circuit, if a maxium voltage drop of ... A: Sorry for the delay. We had some technical issues. This answer is based on a 120 volt, 10-15 amp ... | |
| New outlet | 4/5/2009 |
| Q: I was in the process of installing new outlets in bedroom and had a ground wire break, there are two ... A: One of three things can be done. Normally the ground wires will be twisted together along with a ... | |
| Romex Wiring In Bedroom Closet | 4/4/2009 |
| Q: In a bedroom closet of a recently purchased condominium I found a Romex wire coming out of the ... A: It does not sound like the wiring your seeing is "up to code". The romex should be concealed in the ... | |
| dryer plug in (amps) | 4/3/2009 |
| Q: I bought a new GE dryer, 22-24 amps. The breaker was less than that so an electician put in a a 60 ... A: Dryers require a 30 amp 240 volt power. The wire gauge is 10 AWG, a 30 amp receptacle (socket) and ... | |
| Romex Connectors | 4/2/2009 |
| Q: We had a home inspection and it was flaged that sub-panel in our in our garage is improper and no ... A: As for as the sub-panel being improper...I don't know without more information. The romex needs to ... | |
| Install GE 3 wire 9L15ECB001 surge arrester | 4/1/2009 |
| Q: Can I install this arrester using the 2 black wires to a single 2 throw breaker (ie A/C handler) or ... A: Looking at the instructions online I see you can use a standard 2-pole breaker. This would be the ... | |
| need help | 3/30/2009 |
| Q: took a wall out an unhooked my light switch to do so and now need help wiring it back. on one side ... A: This is confusing. Your description of the 5 screws on the switch is a 4-way switch and the number ... | |
| AMP Draw on 100 amp service | 3/28/2009 |
| Q: I have a 220v dryer and a 230v tanning bed. The dryer is on a 30 amp double pull out cartridge ... A: This depends on what is running at the same time. The service size is not calculated on EVERYTHING ... | |
| 12 gauge wire into 30 amp breaker | 3/24/2009 |
| Q: I have a 30 amp circuit breaker with 10 gauge wire installed & intended to eventually service a ... A: Your question has multiple answers depending on the type of 10 gauge romex and the way it was ... | |
| Three-way Switches not working | 3/23/2009 |
| Q: I hope I can make myself clear here: My overhead fan switch can be turned on downstairs and turned ... A: With out seeing which way the wires were installed from each switch and between the switches it ... | |
| Flourescent Lights | 3/22/2009 |
| Q: I bought two older & one newer three lamp units. The two older have flexible conduit and two ... A: I am unsure about the "units" your describing. Did you buy three (3) fluorescent fixtures or three ... | |
| EMT / Insulating bushings | 3/21/2009 |
| Q: Quick question... I'm running some EMT in my house (basement) and wanted to know if I am required ... A: "Could I be failed for using them if they are not required?" ...No you cannot fail because you use ... | |
| Electrical - light fixture install (bathroom) with fan on 'double' switch | 3/19/2009 |
| Q: In the box there are 3 cords plus a coopper ground - white, red and black wires. The light fixture ... A: I am assuming this is a ceiling fan with light kit your referring to. Normally the ceiling fan is ... | |
| 40 amp double pole | 3/18/2009 |
| Q: I want to install a tankless water heater. The specs call for 220V from a double pole 40 amp ... A: This must be a very small tankless water heater if they are saying ONE double pole 40. Most I have ... | |
| exhaust/light installation | 3/16/2009 |
| Q: I am replacing a bathroom exhaust fan with a combination ventilation fan with light (Broan 679). ... A: Your correct in saying the two function switch is used for that purpose. I am sorry to say there is ... | |
| garbage disposal | 3/15/2009 |
| Q: disposal will not turn off. I just changed the above counter switch but the disposal still runs ... A: If the disposal plugs into a switched outlet under the sink and runs all the time the outlet has ... | |
| rewiring my house | 3/14/2009 |
| Q: do i need a license electrion to do the wiring in my house in florida A: Yes, you should always use a licensed electrician to do electrical work for you. This will insure ... | |
| 2 lights controlled by 2 switches | 3/13/2009 |
| Q: In my stairway there is a light @ the top of the stairs & a light @ the bottom. This is also a ... A: Could those be the individual wire for each light? ...They could be the wires. The boxes being ... | |
| rewiring my garage | 3/12/2009 |
| Q: I have a older model house that has a detached garage and now I would like to rewire it so I can use ... A: To save some money you might want to get a breaker box with main lugs in place of a main breaker. ... | |
| Dimmer switch for an outlet | 3/11/2009 |
| Q: I have a halogen uplight for a tree in my living room plugged into a wall outlet that is switched. ... A: Yes you can replace the switch with a light dimmer. If you use the outlet for anything else make ... | |
| Ceiling fan installation | 3/10/2009 |
| Q: I installed a ceiling fan in a room that had no prior overhead lighting. To do so I pigtailed off ... A: Normally any type of flicker means a loose connection somewhere. Your suggestion of the pull switch ... | |
| Electrical wiring | 3/9/2009 |
| Q: Install a ceiling light. The switch has 2 brass screws. 1 wire to the light and one with the power. ... A: Do the same for the white wires. Put the white wire from the light to the white wire coming from ... | |
| Wiring a garbage disposal | 3/6/2009 |
| Q: I accidentally wired a new garbage disposal with the wires reversed (black & white together instead ... A: You must have damaged the switch at the time of the direct short. Just replace the switch. If you ... | |
| Lights blow out too fast | 3/5/2009 |
| Q: After installing a new pendant light i have noticed that the candelabra bulbs are going bad around ... A: You really can't do anything about the high voltage other than contact your Electric Service ... | |
| dryer connection | 3/4/2009 |
| Q: Well the dryer works but the heating aspect of it doesn,t. I tested three dryers to make sure that ... A: Normally when a electric dryer works but does not heat the power to the dryer is not 240 volts but ... | |
| GFCI | 3/2/2009 |
| Q: I'm in the process of updating a home for sale. I have replaced regular outlets with GFCI's in the ... A: Sounds like you have done a fine job in updating everything. You have gone almost the whole ... | |
| Subpanel wiring | 3/1/2009 |
| Q: I am adding a full bath, 2 1/2 baths, an outdoor kitchen, and revising the existing kitchen. I am ... A: Sounds like a nice weekend project. Ha Ha You have a large task ahead of you. I am sure it will ... | |
| voltage leak | 2/28/2009 |
| Q: Installed 2 sets of 3way switches. Voltage meter shows power at fixtures of 34 and 63 volts with ... A: Where are you reading these voltages and between what wires? There should be no voltage between ANY ... | |
| wiring GFCI | 2/27/2009 |
| Q: Benny, I recently took out a bathroom fan-light, and replaced it with a fan only. The fan and light ... A: Sorry it took so long to get back... had to get some instructions to see what you were reading. ... | |
| Sub Panel Wiring | 2/26/2009 |
| Q: I am running a #4 wire from my main panel in my house about 25' to a shed in my back yard. I ... A: You will need four (4) conductors run to the sub-panel. Two (2) of the conductors will be hots ... | |
| distance that lihts should be apart | 2/25/2009 |
| Q: I'm installing recess lights in my condo living room is there an standard distance that the lights ... A: No... there is not a standard distance between recessed lights. The distance between them should be ... | |
| wiring GFCI | 2/24/2009 |
| Q: Benny, I recently took out a bathroom fan-light, and replaced it with a fan only. The fan and light ... A: This is from the National Electric Code (NEC) on lights installed in residential (dwelling) ... | |
| Electircal Socket - Seven Wires! | 2/21/2009 |
| Q: I am replacing a socket with one ground, three white and three black wires. Do I need a particular ... A: There are two ways to go. First: Purchase a socket (duplex receptacle) that has holes on the back ... | |
| direct wire range | 2/20/2009 |
| Q: Just bought house with aluminum wiring and need to install an electric range to direct wiring. Was ... A: If the new range comes with a wire to plug in you can either cut off the plug end and direct wire ... | |
| Fan control | 2/19/2009 |
| Q: I just bought a new ceiling fan which came with an in-wall 4-speed control. In the instructions, it ... A: "Does this sound like something I should be concerned about?" ... I wouldn't think so BUT I would ... | |
| ganged dimmers, one 3 way | 2/18/2009 |
| Q: I am trying to add a 3 way lutron dimmer to a kitchen light on the same circuit and box as a single ... A: I have attached a crude jpeg diagram of the wiring for which you described. It shows the dining and ... | |
| Old House Electrical | 2/17/2009 |
| Q: So we live in an older house, which gives us old electrical wiring. The last few days we have had ... A: With a old house and "weird" things happening with the electrical system you don't want to mess ... | |
| Wiring for generator | 2/16/2009 |
| Q: I purchased a 5500 (8000 peak) watt Briggs-Stratton Generator and have a Gen Trac 3028K 30 Amp ... A: "Can I mount the inlet box on the finished framing on the outside of one of the garage doors (6" or ... | |
| Electrical wireing | 2/15/2009 |
| Q: Do they make a 8-3 w/ground direct burial wire? UF Cable A: Yes they do. I google searched it and found numerous places with it in stock. I would suggest ... | |
| wall socket | 2/14/2009 |
| Q: My wall socket has partially melted the child safety tab I put in it. The socket stays hot, what is ... A: It is abnormal for a outlet to feel hot, especially when nothing is plugged into it. You should ... | |
| circuit breaker wiring | 2/13/2009 |
| Q: I currently have a 100 amp breaker box hooked up in a home I am trying to sell. The meter on the ... A: I am not familiar with your local codes or power company. Have a local licensed electrician come ... | |
| fuse box question | 2/12/2009 |
| Q: The house we live in was built in the early 50's. We have 100 amp service that feeds a breaker box ... A: The only way to tell is to find out what size wire is going to each fuse. If the marking has come ... | |
| Wiring | 2/11/2009 |
| Q: I am an amateur that continues to learn. I just added to new recessed canned lights in basement. I ... A: I appreciate your frankness in saying your a amateur. I hope you appreciate me in saying you need ... | |
| BLOWING CIRCUT BREAKER | 2/10/2009 |
| Q: WE JUST MOVED INTO A 85 YEAR OLD HOUSE. THE CIRCUT KEEPS BLOWING AND I HAVE TO RESET IT AT THE ... A: Lets see...your house was built in 1924. The first refrigerator was sold in 1911 for about ... | |
| wiring vanity light | 2/9/2009 |
| Q: I took down an old vanity light which had several bulbs, but there was only one connection to the ... A: You will have to add a new cable (will contain a black, white and ground wire), just like the one ... | |
| sump pump wirinig | 2/7/2009 |
| Q: does a sump pump in a crawl space have to be on a ground fault circuit A: This is from the 2008 National Electric Code (NEC). "620.85 Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter ... | |
| voltage surges... | 2/5/2009 |
| Q: I'm actually an electrical engineer, armed and dangerous with a voltmeter, trying to rid my ... A: I'm sorry to say I am just a Master Electrician... but glad to say my head is free of all the ... | |
| outlet | 2/4/2009 |
| Q: lost power on one of 3 outlets in the same room ... breakers ok .. A: Normally the outlets in a room are on the same breaker. If this is the case...you need to pull each ... | |
| Two Prong Outlets | 2/3/2009 |
| Q: I live in Louisiana and just moved into a house (rented) where the majority of the outlets are two ... A: H., I'm sorry to say no to both questions. The National Electric Code says DO NOT change out 2 ... | |
| Two Single Pole Switches (Common Feed) | 2/1/2009 |
| Q: Benny, Coming from the power source, I have 3 wires - black, white and green. Going to two ... A: "I want to know if the "source" black wire should be attached to the "hot" side, and the other two ... | |
| vintage ceiling light wiring | 1/30/2009 |
| Q: I wanted to move a pull down light out of the living room and replace it with ceiling light from a ... A: Outlet screws are color coded. One is silver and one is gold. The silver one is the neutral ... | |
| reverse polarity | 1/29/2009 |
| Q: I had a home inspection done on a home we are considering. He stated that the living room had ... A: Find the breaker which controls power to the living room outlets. Have someone help identify which ... | |
| house wiring | 1/27/2009 |
| Q: I have 4 receptacles and 2 lights with 2 three way switches,i read from way the feed come to neutral ... A: Your neutral is loose or broken somewhere along the circuit. Start with the first outlet or switch ... | |
| Sub Panel Wire Size | 1/24/2009 |
| Q: I have a few questions regarding sub panels. Is the amp rating of a sub panel supposed to be higher ... A: "Is the amp rating of a sub panel supposed to be higher than the total load of the panel if ... | |
| low voltage wiring | 1/22/2009 |
| Q: We are converting a garage to living space and recently had a doorbell (wired) installed. One of the ... A: Sounds like you have a great project going on. "Can I simply cut it, drape it over a roof joist out ... | |
| empty spaces in fuse box | 1/21/2009 |
| Q: The fire marshal has informed me that the empty positions in the electric panel fuse box must be ... A: When you mention "fuse" are you referring to breakers? If so...you will need to get some Federal ... | |
| Splitting power at recepticle | 1/20/2009 |
| Q: I have a wall switch which controls both plugs of a receptacle. In one outlet I have a lamp plugged ... A: You must know a little about this since you mentioned "snap-out tab". If you have a wire going to ... | |
| tankless water heaters | 1/17/2009 |
| Q: I had an on demand water heater installed in my back house. I liked how it worked but shortly after ... A: "What assurance would I be able to have that they were qualified?" Check with the local BBB to see ... | |
| Home Circuit | 1/15/2009 |
| Q: I have a home circuit that is/was out. The breaker was fine. I had a space heater on one of the ... A: First thing to try, maybe you have already, plug the space heater into another circuit. See what ... | |
| Wiring an addition | 1/13/2009 |
| Q: I am completing an addition consisting of a 2 car garage (connected) with two rooms overhead. Q#1 - ... A: Q#1... The circuit wire (14/2) to first alarm is correct. The 14/3 to the second alarm is correct. ... | |
| lights flicker but don't lose power | 1/11/2009 |
| Q: Today my kitchen lights would not turn on full power. No breakers were tripped. I went to check my ... A: Sounds like you might be having problems with your service. Call your utility company, which ... | |
| Cook top wiring | 1/10/2009 |
| Q: I am going to install a 220 vac induction cook top requiring a 40 amp breaker. What wire gauge ... A: Your correct....the gauge to use is 8 for a 40 amp breaker. As for the type, romex or bx, check ... | |
| GFCI and older wiring | 1/6/2009 |
| Q: The home was built in 1960 and used 2 wire (no ground), the old silver cloth over rubber insulation. ... A: Sounds like a lot to do. "Is all of this practical or would a complete rewire be better?" This ... | |
| how to fix an open ground | 12/22/2008 |
| Q: can i ground the green wire to the ground or any metal next to the circuit. A: You really should install a ground wire from an existing outlet to the point where you need it. The ... | |
| Bathroom Wall Fixture | 12/19/2008 |
| Q: I am replacing a single wall fixture with two fixtures above the sinks/mirror. I have the junction ... A: There is a shallow metal box called a "pancake". You can get them from your local Home Depot. The ... | |
| blinking lights | 12/17/2008 |
| Q: My mother's electricity goes off for a few seconds most of the time, but does not go off in two of ... A: Sounds like you have done just what you should...have city utility company look at it first then a ... | |
| Main Breaker Tripping | 12/15/2008 |
| Q: My main breaker has started tripping about a week ago. It is a 100 Amp Square D breaker and has ... A: The amperage you measured is within the boundaries for the 100 amp breaker. Manufacturers recommend ... | |
| electrical wiring | 12/14/2008 |
| Q: See attached image. A: The way I see this...it is wrong. I am assuming the color of the lines represent the actual wire ... | |
| GFI outlets | 12/12/2008 |
| Q: I have a GFI outlet that has started tripping all the time is there any danger or fire hazard in ... A: Sorry it took so long to get back with you we had some technical diffculties with the site. No, ... | |
| Help!!! | 12/11/2008 |
| Q: I want to wire four recess lights and two oulet to on 20 amp swith in the circuit breaker how do I ... A: This is easy...do this. Run your power to the two outlets first then to the light switch last. ... | |
| breaker panel | 12/10/2008 |
| Q: Is it safe to for several breakers to have 1/2" -3/4" of bare wire outside the breaker. (large and ... A: Lets put it this way.. if only qualified personal are permitted in the breaker box it's probably all ... | |
| Dimmer Switch, Xmas lights, and mystery switch | 12/8/2008 |
| Q: My husband and recently purchased out first home. The previous owner left us a message telling us ... A: Dimmer Switches are sized according to watts. The normal sizes are 600, 1000, 1500 and larger. The ... | |
| Humm in my audio from my cable | 12/7/2008 |
| Q: Been doing some work on the house and pulled the cable box off the existing wall to move it to a new ... A: In the new 2008 National Electric Code they have what is called a intersystem bonding termination. ... | |
| Open Hot | 12/6/2008 |
| Q: I have a frig in the garage that is connected to an outlet. The home is 4 years old. Everything ... A: There is a National Electric Code (NEC) which everyone must follow. The purpose of this Code is the ... | |
| 240v | 12/5/2008 |
| Q: I'm installing a new air compressor(240v)it has 3-wires,a white,a red and a green. the wire coming ... A: Are you sure the compressor is not dual rated...120 volt or 240 volt? Normally if the equipment is ... | |
| Lights Won't Work | 12/4/2008 |
| Q: I am renting from a condo owner in Alberta and he has "ikea" lighting all over the suite. I ... A: Several things to try. Take one of the bulbs (or all) from the dining light and put in another ... | |
| Home Electicity | 12/3/2008 |
| Q: The electricty is out in part of my home after a thunderstorm. The power to half of the house is out ... A: Having power to half the house signifies two problems. First, have you had the utility company ... | |
| New service cable | 12/1/2008 |
| Q: I'm running a new service cable from the new meter base to the breaker box. Does the entrance point ... A: I am unsure of what your telling me. I hope I am not wasting your time. "I'm running a new service ... | |
| Wall switch to a light | 11/30/2008 |
| Q: Light is not working. Power is coming to switch in the "off" position. When turned "on" there is no ... A: The switch should have two (2) wires connected to it. One (1) is the "hot" (feeds power to the ... | |
| SMOKE ALARM CHIRPING | 11/29/2008 |
| Q: We have 4 smoke alerts battery/hardwire newer house. One started chirping - replaced on batteries. ... A: In recent years all the smoke detectors in the house had to be interconnected to one another. If ... | |
| Wire issue ceiling 120v 2 wire 3 wire | 11/28/2008 |
| Q: I am installing ceiling fans with remote control. The problem is the remote has two wires for 120v ... A: There are so many remotes on the market it is hard for me to say... do it this way. The ... | |
| bathroom lighting | 11/25/2008 |
| Q: Our bathroom light, outlet, vent and closet light went out all at once. We checked the breaker box ... A: The breakers are the first item to check when something stops working. Depending on the ... | |
| saving electricity | 11/23/2008 |
| Q: It has been suggested that you un-plug any thing not in use -- that just being plugged in can use ... A: I never thought about this but....I guess you could. My only concern is turning the breaker off/on ... | |
| service turn on | 11/21/2008 |
| Q: I need to connect the main service wires in my garage and would like to do so safely. To clarify I ... A: I assume these lines already have power to them since you mentioned testing them. Where I am from, ... | |
| Flush mount light | 11/20/2008 |
| Q: I recently took down a flush mount light and there was no junction box just a hole in the ceiling ... A: You should install a box for the wiring connections. They have a round plastic box referred to as ... | |
| Lighting fixture wires are not labeled | 11/19/2008 |
| Q: I replaced my mother's ceiling fixture with a new one and as I was taking down the old one I forgot ... A: This is correct...the light will work either way. Normally the socket (light bulb screws into this) ... | |
| breaker | 11/18/2008 |
| Q: I have 3 outside lanterns controlled from 2 separate switches in the house. The other evening after ... A: If the lights are dim the culprit is low voltage. Low voltage can be caused by loose connections at ... | |
| 220 volts | 11/17/2008 |
| Q: I have a cress hobby kiln and i need to install 220 for it on my patio. Can this be done? A: If you are not financially limited then, yes, it can be done. This will be determined by your ... | |
| Time frame to rewire house | 11/16/2008 |
| Q: My family and I are looking to move to a 5BR/3.5BA brick home. Before we can move in, the house ... A: There are too many variables involved here to determine how long this should take. Variables ... | |
| 125 amp to 100 amp or what | 11/15/2008 |
| Q: have a 125 amp drop box out at ac 2 ac,S i want to run power to my shop basic out lets and ... A: I am having trouble figuring out what exactly you have here or want. As far as the wire size needed ... | |
| Main Breaker Box | 11/13/2008 |
| Q: Main breaker box is a Homeline, (Square D residential I think). Power from meter tied to top lugs. ... A: Q: Years ago a home run was limited to 4 drops per run in kitchens and similar areas, 8 drops in ... | |
| Lights Flickering | 11/12/2008 |
| Q: Benny, I have been experiencing lights flickering and dimming down and then coming back up. I ... A: I am terribly sorry for this situation...both the electrical and the financial. Believe me, I know ... | |
| Main Breaker Box | 11/11/2008 |
| Q: Main breaker box is a Homeline, (Square D residential I think). Power from meter tied to top lugs. ... A: Why was the 60 amp installed to service the 110 circuits? This breaker box is a "split-buss" type. ... | |
| Rewiring Ceiling Fan to regular light. | 11/10/2008 |
| Q: I am putting a regular light where there used to be a ceiling fan. The celing fan was hooked up to ... A: The reason the light did not work was because the wires you connected to it was half right. ... | |
| Extended Lugs | 11/9/2008 |
| Q: Trying to wire a sub panel, and have used 4/0 AL wire, however does not work with 125amp panel or ... A: As you found out ... the lugs in the new 125 amp panel were not suitable for that large of wire ... | |
| triple switch single pole | 11/6/2008 |
| Q: I am trying to wire a ceiling light/fan/heater combo. I have used both a 12/3 and 12/2 wire from ... A: Sounds like you have done great so far. Based on what you are saying do this: Take the black ... | |
| Dining Room Light | 11/5/2008 |
| Q: Benny: I accidentally hit (barely a tap) my dining room chandelier with my acoustic guitar which ... A: This is very strange. The only thing I can think of is ... maybe the internal chandelier wiring ... | |
| No power to light bulb socket | 11/4/2008 |
| Q: and there are 4 switches on the panel one for the outside lights, the breakfast and a lamp and the ... A: Here are some questions to think about. Have you taken down the kitchen light fixture and checked ... | |
| Neutral shows amp draw? | 11/1/2008 |
| Q: so I have a shop and for some reason the black load and white neutral wires for the lighting are ... A: The neutral wire (white) is the return path for the 120 volt loads (lights, outlets, etc.) The ... | |
| Recessed lighting - thermal cut-out | 10/31/2008 |
| Q: Hu Benny, I have several recessed lights in my kitchen (Halo h71cat). Two of them would turn off ... A: "Can I replace the thermal cut-out easily or do I need new fixtures?"...Yes, you can change out. ... | |
| Rewire? Splice? Danger? | 10/30/2008 |
| Q: If my dog chewed through the regular power cord for my floor lamp, can I just cut the wires clean ... A: I hope your dog wasn't hurt when this happened. "Is there anything important that I would need to ... | |
| LIghting | 10/29/2008 |
| Q: I'm installing some outdoor soffit recessed lights. Currently, there is a switch box which controls ... A: Since I am not familiar with the local electrical codes there, always check with the authority ... | |
| 220v line | 10/26/2008 |
| Q: I want to install a 20amp 220v cooktop(240/208 VAC, 60 Hz) and a 20amp wall oven(240/208 VAC 3.4 kW ... A: I need more info before deciding if this is possible. Please send me this in a follow-up question. ... | |
| wiring gang box | 10/25/2008 |
| Q: I'm refinishing my basement. I plan on having two sets of recessed lights in the ceiling. Each with ... A: You didn't mention how many recess are going to be on each set. Does the word "powerfeed" refer to ... | |
| Emergency exit lights | 10/24/2008 |
| Q: I have a friend that runs a daycare out of an older home (I'd guess 50 years or older). She has two ... A: There can be many causes for this happening. In fact, too many to try and diagnose over the ... | |
| circuits not working after resetting breaker | 10/23/2008 |
| Q: I have a double 30 amp breaker that controls power to a sub panel. We shut off the breaker to so ... A: No I don't think the sub-panel would go bad BUT the double 30 amp breaker could. Try forcefully ... | |
| Outlets | 10/22/2008 |
| Q: I seem to be having an intermitant loss of power to all the wall sockets on one wall of my house ... A: This could be caused by several reasons. Loose or broken wires, a loose joint connection, a ... | |
| Installing a older Chandelier to a new overhead outlet | 10/19/2008 |
| Q: Unfortunately, the chandelier install instruction has been dumped. The chandelier has two wires, ... A: Normally a red wire in a light box signifies it was prewired for a ceiling fan with a light kit. ... | |
| Electrical Wiring | 10/17/2008 |
| Q: on one circuit in our house 2 outlets are not working, i removed the wires from the outlet,the ... A: Sorry your having this problem. I need to ask some questions. When you say, "2 outlets are not ... | |
| Shop wiring | 9/10/2008 |
| Q: I am wanting to run power to my shop, I have a panel box under my meter with 4 empty slots and the ... A: Because you have a 200 amp main, I am not recommending you install a 100 amp shop load. That is 50% ... | |
| no power here | 9/9/2008 |
| Q: I have 4 recepticles in a bedroom in a mobile home that have no power. I have checked all breakers ... A: Sounds like you have done everything you can. Even though I might have a idea what might be causing ... | |
| home wiring | 9/8/2008 |
| Q: I am installing a exhaust fan in my bathroom. Not a real big job but I am also adding an GFI outlet. ... A: Yes you can. Install it so that it only gives GFCI protection for the outlet. This way the lights ... | |
| dryer/ curcuit breaker | 9/7/2008 |
| Q: my dryer will run for about 3 minutes , then it trips the breaker, i have checked all connections ... A: You didn't say whether your dryer is electric or gas. Electric dryers require a minimum of 30 amps ... | |
| half of circuit not working | 9/6/2008 |
| Q: using the microwave caused lights to dim and then go out completely.thought breaker was tripped.then ... A: I am sorry your having all these problems. I am recommending you hiring a licensed electrician to ... | |
| Light Switch | 9/5/2008 |
| Q: I woke up this mourning to no lights in half my house assuming my wife blew a circuit with her ... A: Looks like you've had a hectic morning. If the insulation on the wires is not damaged or melted you ... | |
| Two prong plug-in | 9/4/2008 |
| Q: In one room in our house there is a two prong plug-in. We are wanting to move the computer to this ... A: FYI: There is a "National Electrical Code" (NEC) which was written to safeguard persons and property ... | |
| GFCI breaks when use shop light | 9/3/2008 |
| Q: My son-in-law put in a new circuit to use for a sump pump. He used a 20 amp breaker in the box and ... A: Even though I might have a idea what might be causing your problem doesn’t mean we can solve it ... | |
| adding an extra celing light | 9/1/2008 |
| Q: i am building a conservatory on the side of my house and i would like to put in a ceiling light and ... A: Yes you can get your power from the existing kitchen light. 1) Install 3 wires (black, white and ... | |
| Garage no power | 8/30/2008 |
| Q: We have a converted garage, which is just a storaage/junk room right now. I would like it to ... A: Even though I might have a idea what might be causing your problem doesn’t mean we can solve it ... | |
| finding wiring thru sheetrock | 8/29/2008 |
| Q: is there a tool that will help you locate electrical wiring thru Sheetrock. So you do not hit it ... A: Yes, there are tools to help with this if you are willing to spend several hundred dollars. Also ... | |
| ceiling light | 8/26/2008 |
| Q: I bought a replacement 3 light fixture. When I took down the old light / fan, I found more wires ... A: Even though I might have a idea what might be causing your problem doesn’t mean we can solve it ... | |
| GFCI Daisy Chaining | 8/25/2008 |
| Q: My house is currently wired so that the upstairs bathroom line heads into the garage from the ... A: If I understand you correctly, there should be no problem (electrically) with what you want to do. ... | |
| track lighting dilemma | 8/24/2008 |
| Q: I have a track light and a Ceiling fan/light on the same circuit. Is there any way short of tearing ... A: You didn't mention the location of the track light but I am assuming it is located on the ceiling. ... | |
| wiring | 8/23/2008 |
| Q: im trying to put a gfci on my deck and want it to be operated by a switch, how do i run and connect ... A: To add this GFCI install a wire that has three (3) conductors (Black, white and green) in it from ... | |
| 15 amp circuit | 8/22/2008 |
| Q: what is a hot neutral A: 2008 NEC, Chapter 1 General :: ARTICLE 100 Definitions Neutral Conductor. The conductor connected ... | |
| 3 way ceiling fan/light control | 8/18/2008 |
| Q: I have a light fixture above my staircase that I would like to replace it with a ceiling fan/light ... A: Based on the way this would be wired in the Houston area the answer is no. The only way to control ... | |
| adding a light switch | 8/17/2008 |
| Q: We installed some track lights in our basement, replacing a single bulb receptacle, with a pull ... A: I am sorry your having this problem...I will see if I can help you. Sometimes a electrical problem ... | |
| open ground | 8/16/2008 |
| Q: Benny, I need some advice. I wired my shop using an instruction manual and took my time doing so. ... A: Sorry your having this problem. Sounds like you have been very thorough. Even though I might have ... | |
| 220 v with 110v machine? | 8/13/2008 |
| Q: I bought a Brother sewing machine in the US, then found out that they don't recommend using it with ... A: If the sewing machine is under warranty then I would definitely recommend what Brother says. If ... | |
| An "Extra "Red Wire | 8/9/2008 |
| Q: I've found several Internet references to a red wire in a junction box, but none seems to solve my ... A: Sometimes there is a red wire run to a prewired ceiling fan outlet along with a black wire. The red ... | |
| switch & outlet | 8/8/2008 |
| Q: I have a single pole switch for a light & I want to put in an outlet a few feet away. I do not want ... A: In the box where the switch is are the power and light wires. There should be two or more bare ... | |
| breaker spark | 8/7/2008 |
| Q: An electrician just installed 6 potlights in my basement hall. They are 6' cans with 65w floodlight ... A: The spark (flash or arc) is caused by having lights (or other loads) turned on when the breaker is ... | |
| 60 amp to 100 amp Panel | 8/6/2008 |
| Q: I'm in the process of renovating my older home which has a 60 amp service. We have run new wiring ... A: I am not sure if I understand your question. Do you want to install a 100 amp service panel but ... | |
| Short | 8/4/2008 |
| Q: I have a table saw that appears to have a short. If I touch the frame of the saw, I can feel a ... A: You said the GFCI outlet is wired correctly. Does it test correctly? Some outlet testers have a ... | |
| what wire size to use | 8/1/2008 |
| Q: for a 2 ton ac compressor with a 30 amp breaker what size wire should i use?? thanks A: I am sorry to say I cannot answer your question with the information you gave me. I can tell you ... | |
| wiring up a workshop | 7/31/2008 |
| Q: i have recently been given a 50 amp stick welder and need to wire up my work shop for it i want to ... A: I'm glad you mentioned this....my initial response is "No". You are treading in thin water to add ... | |
| bathroom exhaust fan wiring | 7/30/2008 |
| Q: I replaced an exhaust fan in my bathroom, but when i was done the fan did not turn on. the wires ... A: I'm sorry you are having trouble with your fan. The green wire is a "ground" wire. It is there for ... | |
| Feed wire size for sub panal | 7/29/2008 |
| Q: Benny, I have just purchased a house with a full basement that I want to convert into a ... A: Use #3 copper subfeed wire. (The wire sizes are based on 75°C (167°F) conductor temperature ... | |
| wiring up a workshop | 7/28/2008 |
| Q: i have recently been given a 50 amp stick welder and need to wire up my work shop for it i want to ... A: Sounds like you will have a nice workshop. If yours is like mine, it will be "never ending story". ... | |
| ammount of service i have entering into my house | 7/27/2008 |
| Q: The house i bought is 50+ years old and dosen't have a main braker. I was wondering if you kenw how ... A: I wish it was as simple as adding the numbers on the breakers but that is not the case. If you have ... | |
| swith to light in garage | 7/25/2008 |
| Q: can i change a light switch to a light switch with receptacle? There are only 3 wires hooked upto ... A: I have a question about the wires inside the switch box. You mention there are "only" three (3) ... | |
| Possible exposed wire in wall | 7/23/2008 |
| Q: I have heard the same noise inside of one of my walls 3 times. Each time the noise is heard, the ... A: I am sorry your having such difficulty with your wiring. Sometimes a electrical problem is simple ... | |
| wiring 220 outlets | 7/22/2008 |
| Q: I would like to know if i can run 2 separate wires to 2 seperate oulets, but put these wires in the ... A: Grounding-type receptacles shall be installed only on circuits of the voltage class and current for ... | |
| installing a dimmer on a single pole | 7/20/2008 |
| Q: I am replacing a dimmer on a single pole from a regular toggle switch. Both wires are black are ... A: Which wires are live and where are you putting your meter probes? I am assuming the toggle switch ... | |
| wiring 220 outlets | 7/19/2008 |
| Q: I would like to know if i can run 2 separate wires to 2 seperate oulets, but put these wires in the ... A: I need more information. Please send me a follow-up response. What is the voltage of the shop vac ... | |
| Ceiling light control from outlet | 7/17/2008 |
| Q: I'm a realtor and one of my listings has electrical wiring strung from the ceiling fan/room light ... A: No, you will not have to totally rewire the house. You didn't mention whether you want the wall ... | |
| ceiling fan | 7/16/2008 |
| Q: I am tring to install 2 ceiling fans in one room. the are on the same connections. The directions ... A: I am sorry to hear you are having this problem. Sometimes a electrical problem is simple to ... | |
| Grounding a shoplite | 7/15/2008 |
| Q: I recently purchased a shoplite for my garage. It comes fully assembled except for lamps. The ... A: In the shoplite, there should be either a bare wire, green wire or a green screw (all these are ... | |
| Wiring a wall light fixture | 7/14/2008 |
| Q: Can I wire wall sconces to existing outlet(s) near floor, and can switch be added to that outlet? ... A: I see no problem in wiring the sconces to the outlet near the floor (unless this will overload the ... | |
| hot water heater timer override switch | 7/13/2008 |
| Q: I have recently installed an Intermatic timer on my hot water heater. All is well, but I am confused ... A: You didn't mention which model of timer you have. Most of the time, the manual override switch will ... | |
| 2 single switches, change one to switch/outlet | 7/13/2008 |
| Q: The two switches, one to exhaust fan, other to ceiling light. Pulling ceiling switch and replace ... A: First off, I must tell you that the NEC (National Electrical Code) requires outlets in bathrooms to ... | |
| What is this device? | 7/12/2008 |
| Q: I am trying to troubleshoot an electrical circuit outage in my home. I think the device in the ... A: Sometimes a electrical problem is simple to diagnose and other times very difficult. Even though I ... | |
| Wiring Pendant Lights | 7/12/2008 |
| Q: Want to hang 2 pendant lights from existing junction boxes that have not been used before. Lights ... A: You hooked up the wires as I would have. Have you tested the wires in the j-box to see if there is ... | |
| wiring a light | 7/11/2008 |
| Q: I have two wall mounted lights I would like controlled by one wall switch. I would like to know how ... A: Good morning Chad, You didn't mention the wattage of the bulbs used in the lights. I am assuming ... | |
| Fixture Question | 7/10/2008 |
| Q: I have moved into an room that has no ceiling light and bought a Lithonia LB 2 32 fixture and wanted ... A: Great job.... you now have light! There are switches made which attach to cords without having to ... | |
| Light switch popped when switched on, 1st time in 10 years of use | 7/9/2008 |
| Q: Light switch popped when I switched it on and after produced an electrical burn odor. The switch ... A: Sorry this happened. I know electricity can be frightening. The arching might have been a loose ... | |
| House Wiring Question | 7/9/2008 |
| Q: I have a lenght of wire that runs horizontally to 4 outlets along my garage wall. Recently i was ... A: Yes it is possible but take your wire to one of the garage outlets to get your power for the garage ... | |
| Fixture Question | 7/9/2008 |
| Q: I have moved into an room that has no ceiling light and bought a Lithonia LB 2 32 fixture and wanted ... A: Yes, you can attach a cord with a plug on the fixture. In fact, you can purchase fluorescent lights ... | |
| multiwiring issue | 7/8/2008 |
| Q: Kitchen wiring. Multi-wiring issue? I had a new 200A panel and new circuit breakers put in 3 years ... A: You did a great job in describing your situation. Have you had any electrical training? I could go ... | |
| home wiring problem..fire hazard??? | 7/8/2008 |
| Q: 22 yr old home. First year living in it. My daughters bedroom light will be on and then make a ... A: Please let me explain a some important things when trouble shooting electrical problems. Sometimes ... | |
| Loss of power to part of house | 7/8/2008 |
| Q: I am renting and the power for basement for washer is not working - I ran an extension to kitchen ... A: I am sorry you are having these problems. They can be very annoying. Please let me explain a few ... | |
| Improper wiring in outlets | 7/8/2008 |
| Q: I have problems with all my outlets. We lose power while we have storms. Repairman said years ago ... A: Please let me explain a few important things when trouble shooting electrical problems. Sometimes a ... | |
| AC wiring | 7/8/2008 |
| Q: I have an updated panel. I have added a new HI-Efficiency furnace and coil to the unit. I now have ... A: You didn't mention where the 35 came from so I will start from the beginning. The gauge of the wire ... | |
| Subpanel | 7/7/2008 |
| Q: I am considering in putting in a electric tankless water heater. It requires (two) 240 volt 60 amp ... A: It would be nice if the subpanel idea would work. That would save a lot of time and money. I am ... | |
| central vacuum inlet face plate | 7/7/2008 |
| Q: We are trying to install a central vacuum inlet face plate. The plate has two screws to attach ... A: The builder might have used 4 wires to divide the inlets up into 2 groups. Or they did this to ... | |
| extension cord for dryer | 7/7/2008 |
| Q: My son lives in an apartment with a small closet with folding doors to hold a washer/dryer. He was ... A: Please let me explain a few important things when trouble shooting electrical problems. Sometimes a ... | |
| ceiling fan | 7/6/2008 |
| Q: i currently wired in a ceiling fan and apparently it was wrong now i have no power in back two ... A: Please let me explain a few important things when trouble shooting electrical problems. Sometimes a ... | |
| pot lights tripping circuit | 7/6/2008 |
| Q: i installed 6 potlights in the bedroom on 1 dimmer, and then 4 potlights near the closets on the ... A: Please let me explain a few important things when trouble shooting electrical problems. Sometimes a ... | |
| hooking up fans w remote | 7/5/2008 |
| Q: i have a acero minka aire with remote and the remote wall switch has 2 blck wires and ground wire ... A: Please let me explain a few important things when trouble shooting electrical problems. Sometimes a ... | |
| Switch flips breaker | 7/5/2008 |
| Q: Hey there, low-voltage is my game, none of this stuff that hurts! Anyway, I have a switch in the ... A: Please let me explain a few important things when trouble shooting electrical problems. Sometimes a ... | |
| 4 prong to 3 prong adapter | 7/2/2008 |
| Q: I have a dryer that has a 4 prong electrical cord. My electrical outlet is a 3 prong. What do I ... A: I have not seen the type of adapter your needing. You will need to buy either a 3 prong dryer cord ... | |
| Wiring 240V Circuit | 7/1/2008 |
| Q: I am installing a new circuit in a new home to service my table saw. I successfully installed a ... A: I picked up your question from the question pool. You might have already fixed it. If not, can you ... | |
About Electrical Wiring in the Home
This site answers questions related to home electrical wiring, home wiring, general electrical help,and other electrical questions related to aleternating current (AC). You can find help on the National Electical Code, home electrical issues, wiring electrical outlets, installing lighting, electrical grounding, and general electrical help for do-it-yourself projects not require an electrician. If you do not see your home electrical wiring question answered in this area then please ask your electrical wiring question here
This site answers questions related to home electrical wiring, home wiring, general electrical help,and other electrical questions related to aleternating current (AC). You can find help on the National Electical Code, home electrical issues, wiring electrical outlets, installing lighting, electrical grounding, and general electrical help for do-it-yourself projects not require an electrician. If you do not see your home electrical wiring question answered in this area then please ask your electrical wiring question here
Electrical Wiring in the Home
Answers by Expert:
Benny
Top Expert on this page
Expertise
I can answer questions concerning the home wiring system. Other than the power requirements for them, I have no experience in appliance or HVAC repairs. Over the years, I have acquired some working knowledge of this equipment and therefore will do my best in answering any question you might have.
Experience
I am a retired licensed Electrical Contractor and have held an Electrician license for 34 years. I have been a Master Electrician for the last 25 years in various cities throughout Texas. I currently hold a State of Texas Master Electrician license and employed as a Master Electrical Specialist by a home improvement firm.
Education/Credentials
I take annual Continuing Education courses relevant to the electrical industry, Texas Laws and Inspection Program and the National Electrical Code.
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