| Subject | Date Asked |
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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, ...
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| 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. ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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. ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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". ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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) ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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: ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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? ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| ??? 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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. ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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. ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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, ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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". ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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) ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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| 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 ...
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