You are here:
| Subject | Date Asked |
| wrong breaker size | 8/14/2009 |
| Q: I notice my panel has 5 30 amp breakers. I am wondering what those could be used for. We have only ... A: If you feel comfortable opening the panel, you can check the wire size coming from the breakers. If ... | |
| service panel | 8/14/2009 |
| Q: I have a few question on understanding the service panel. The main breaker has 100 on it; does this ... A: If your main device is rated 100amps, then that is what your service is rated. While true that if ... | |
| Upgrading electrical service | 8/14/2009 |
| Q: We recently had an electrician to our house to complete some work and he suggested that we should ... A: The statement about there being no true 300 amp service is correct, because there is no equipment ... | |
| question-01 | 8/13/2009 |
| Q: I want build a light circuit using 6amps breaker.. circuit has 6 light. each ligh has 220watt. My ... A: I'm not familiar with the electric power system or requirements in your part of the world ... | |
| 30 amp rv temporary hook-up. | 8/13/2009 |
| Q: Am preparing for electrical inspection in WA. Have hooked up receptical and power supply and ... A: The only thing I can tell from your photo is that the flat copper band located on the neutral buss ... | |
| Rewiring Mobilehome | 8/12/2009 |
| Q: Miell, I just got a mobile home that I need to remodel. It is a 1970 65' X 12' with a 7' X 12' ... A: I would recommend you upgrade to a 150 or 200amp panel, due to your increased loads. I would also ... | |
| Swap a 30-amp dual pole for 2 20-amp single pole breakers | 8/11/2009 |
| Q: I moved into a new home where they provided a 30-amp circuit for the dryer, which uses #10 3-wire ... A: I'm not following you on how you hooked up the neutral and the ground to the outlets ("splitting the ... | |
| double switch outlet | 8/11/2009 |
| Q: I read the answer you gave to Catherine about a double switch outlet. And when you said the switch ... A: Sorry for the confusion. What this combo switch has is, on one side of the switches, 2 screws that ... | |
| light trips breaker when turning on and off light | 8/11/2009 |
| Q: I put in 3 new lights where there was only 1 light now i have power to the lights but when i switch ... A: Matt, do you by chance have a special breaker installed? if you have an AFCI type breaker, your ... | |
| House Generator | 8/10/2009 |
| Q: I bought a 7000/8750 generator with an L14-30 fenmale receptor built into the generator. I want to ... A: Michael, as much as I would like to come on down, I think that what you propose may work, but you ... | |
| electrical short? | 8/10/2009 |
| Q: As new homeowners my husband removed an old ceiling fan and installed the new one in our livingroom. ... A: You will need to find out if the breaker is indeed providing power to your circuit. You can check ... | |
| House Generator | 8/9/2009 |
| Q: I bought a 7000/8750 generator with an L14-30 fenmale receptor built into the generator. I want to ... A: Your plan, as presented here, is one that has noticable hazards. Hazard #1: a double male ended ... | |
| fan wiring | 8/8/2009 |
| Q: i want to add a ceiling fan in my bedroom. there is nothing on the ceiling now. on the wall i have a ... A: I would recommend you run a 3-wire cable from the switch directly to the new fan/light. Hook up the ... | |
| light trips breaker when turning on and off light | 8/8/2009 |
| Q: I put in 3 new lights where there was only 1 light now i have power to the lights but when i switch ... A: First off, reinstall the 15 amp breaker. You have created a hazard by putting a larger breaker in. ... | |
| Electrical Problems | 8/8/2009 |
| Q: I need HELP PLEASE. I have been experiencing problems during the summer months only for a couple of ... A: I would follow up with your electrician. Have them do a complete evaluation of your electrical ... | |
| under ground new | 8/7/2009 |
| Q: I am setting up my mobile and plus putting in two other meters for RV hook up , I under stand the ... A: This will depend and a couple of things. First, contact your power company to see where they want ... | |
| Home and Gen wiring | 8/6/2009 |
| Q: http://www.allexperts.com/user.cgi?m=6&catID=2405&expID=48878&qID=4869537 I was told that there were ... A: I have read the orginal posts, looked at the photos and diagram. To answer your question posted ... | |
| deep well pump | 8/5/2009 |
| Q: I need to run electricty to my well pump which is 400ft from my house. The pump motor is 1/2 ... A: I punched this information into my voltage drop calculator, and I can up with a wire size of: If ... | |
| Wiring for garbage disposal | 8/4/2009 |
| Q: I have an older home with no garbage disposal. There is an outlet under the sink where the ... A: I have seen this done before, but if the dishwasher, or the disposal are large enough, you might be ... | |
| main feeder splice | 8/4/2009 |
| Q: I want to add inductive ammeters to each leg of my home's electrical sub panel, just for the fun of ... A: Since this panel is not your main panel (no main breaker installed), you might be able to replace ... | |
| Pot lighting spacing | 8/4/2009 |
| Q: We have basement 20x30. The height is 7ft. I have 3' pot lights & would like to wash the walls. How ... A: I'm afraid I don't know what a pot light is, since you say these are 3'. If these are just your ... | |
| wiring | 8/3/2009 |
| Q: can you go from 12-2 wire to 14-2 wire in a gang of receptacles that are on a 15 amp breaker thank ... A: As long as the breaker does not exceed that required for the smallest wire in the circuit, you can. ... | |
| blinking light | 8/3/2009 |
| Q: I apologize for the triviality of this question -- my ignorance is great. I have a lamp that ... A: This could be caused by a faulty socket. With the lamp unplugged, remove the lamp and look at the ... | |
| Installing radiant heat floor thermostat from tapping off of GFCI | 8/2/2009 |
| Q: Wondering what is the best way to tap into a gfci to install a radiant heat flooring thermostat and ... A: The gfci may not allow this added load, so I recommend you run a separate circuit for this. If you ... | |
| second breaker box | 8/2/2009 |
| Q: I want to put a second breaker box in a part of a house that has never been wired. I would like to ... A: In order to run 100amps, you will need to use the correct wire size. #6 is not large enough, nor is ... | |
| AFCI breakers | 8/1/2009 |
| Q: I recently completed installation of two new circuits in a shop area behind my garage. The circuits ... A: There could be a possibility that the breaker is faulty. I would recommend you take the 20 amp ... | |
| 208/230 A/C wall unit | 8/1/2009 |
| Q: I have a frigidair and i wanted to install the breaker i ran the wire as told so. I explains that if ... A: I'm a little confused on what you are hooking up. Is this an window-type air conditioner? You will ... | |
| Wall Outlet making ticking sound | 7/31/2009 |
| Q: I have a wall outlet in my living room (not in use) that all of a sudden started making a ticking ... A: I would recommend you have an electrician come in to check this out for you. It could be a bad ... | |
| Help | 7/31/2009 |
| Q: all my breakers are on, but i got no power in the back of m house,one breaker(i got 2 switches on ... A: I recommend that you first check to make sure you have both hot legs available in your breaker ... | |
| outlets and light not working | 7/30/2009 |
| Q: i do have a bathroom in that room which is master bedroom and it has gfci outlet and we reset it and ... A: I would check the breaker first. It may have tripped, causing an outage on this circuit. Look for ... | |
| water leak, electrical outlet box | 7/30/2009 |
| Q: How do I determine whether or not electrical outlet is safe to use and/or what precautions to take ... A: Start by turning off the power. Then remove the outlet from the box. Look for deteriation on the ... | |
| lightining | 7/30/2009 |
| Q: several homes in a line about a half mile long were damaged by lightining . two houses , ten lots ... A: I suspect that your grounding system was in good enough shape to help bleed the excess voltage to ... | |
| Light Install | 7/29/2009 |
| Q: However he is maxed out on questions now.I wired the like to the box the way he said but he also ... A: Sometimes fluorescent fixtures will not work correctly without a ground. If there is not a bare or ... | |
| Wiring for deck | 7/29/2009 |
| Q: I am installing a deck and want to tap into an existing outdoor outlet. Here are my questions: 1) ... A: Q1: there is no requirement for spacing or number on a circuit, in this case. Q2: 100' should ... | |
| Lights work but not outlets on same circuit | 7/28/2009 |
| Q: We have a circuit with a few light switches and 5 outlets on the same circuit (one of which is a ... A: It sounds like your breaker may be faulty. You can check the output with your meter to verify that ... | |
| Electricity | 7/28/2009 |
| Q: My sons electric bill has went up in his rental house by about 115% for the last four months ... A: There are a couple of things to check on his bill before doing anything major. Compare the ... | |
| 3 wire to 4 wire hookup on dryer | 7/28/2009 |
| Q: We just moved to a new townhouse & the dryer wall outlet is a 4 wire plug, & the dryer which is just ... A: Look on the back of the dryer, there should be a wiring diagram there. What you will need to do ... | |
| romex bare wire as neutral | 7/27/2009 |
| Q: 12/2 romex with gnd is installed and walls are closed up, an extra hot circuit is needed, took black ... A: You ask if this could be grandfathered, but since you are changing the use of the cable it does not ... | |
| outlet distances | 7/27/2009 |
| Q: we had a new cooktop installed on a 66" counter. we want to add a 20A GFI wall outlet. Is there a ... A: The is no NEC madated minimum spacing requirement. There is a requirement for placement of an outlet ... | |
| high voltage in the home | 7/26/2009 |
| Q: I live in Mexico. Recently, I checked my outlets with a multimeter and discovered that my home's ... A: This voltage rating is the higher limit on what the supply should be, but I don't think it will be ... | |
| Electric service upgrade | 7/26/2009 |
| Q: Rick, I live in Arvada Co. and own a home that was built in the 50's. I need to have my outside ... A: I would think that you will be required to upgrade the inside panel also. I have not had to bid a ... | |
| stove,hard wire to plug | 7/25/2009 |
| Q: my old stove is hard wired. My new stove has as plug. I thought about cutting the plug on the new ... A: Most stoves, if supplied with a cord, cannot be hardwired. I would recommend you install a 50amp ... | |
| electrical wiring | 7/25/2009 |
| Q: How can i tell which wire is hot and which is neutral? I have an old house with wiring that is not ... A: You can use a neon voltage tester, reading from one wire to some grounded surface, like a plumbing ... | |
| Changing dryer cord | 7/24/2009 |
| Q: My dryer has only 3 prongs, the guy at lowes told me to connect the green and white togeather. Can I ... A: If you are installing a new dryer in an existing location that only has a 3-wire outlet, you can ... | |
| find total amprage | 7/24/2009 |
| Q: How do you find the total amperage when the amperage on leg A and leg B is know on 240V single phase ... A: You have done the measurements to find the amperage. You don't sum them together, or try to measure ... | |
| Noisy electrical lines for Home studio | 7/23/2009 |
| Q: I have a professional home recording studio. I am getting lots of hum and RF Interference. I have ... A: Usually noise comes in from the grounding system, so I would recommend you have an electrician come ... | |
| Permit | 7/23/2009 |
| Q: I'm contemplating wiring my basement - now that I'm done framing - and thought about going it on my ... A: Usually if an addition or a remodel consists of square footage equal to or greater than 50% of the ... | |
| pool wiring | 7/22/2009 |
| Q: What is the acceptable type of wire to use underground for an above ground pool? We are getting ... A: I suggest you visit this site to get the skinny on above ground pools. I don't have my copy of the ... | |
| Sub Panel Feeders | 7/22/2009 |
| Q: After getting lots of great info on here I thought I'd ask a specific question about a project I am ... A: I strongly recommend replacing the wire. Since it sounds like you can't do this, how about using ... | |
| Pool House Wiring | 7/21/2009 |
| Q: I would like to provide power to a pool house. the poolhouse requirements are: 1x 30 amp 240volt ... A: It looks like you are feeding 100amps to the new pool panel, so your wire will have to be rated for ... | |
| 240/120 Voltage | 7/21/2009 |
| Q: I live in a country where 240 volts is standard. The electrical wiring is complete with 3 wires,(2 ... A: Bob, even tho you may be hundreds of feet from the earth, you could still come into contact with a ... | |
| smoke detectors | 7/20/2009 |
| Q: What is the correct placement for hardwired smoke detectors? We have to upgrade because we are ... A: I'm sorry, but smoke detector placement is not in the electrical code book. This is a building code ... | |
| Bonding steel beams | 7/20/2009 |
| Q: What size wire is required for bonding 2 steel beams in a basement of a residence? What do I ... A: I will keep your rating comments in mind whenver I try to answer future questions. PS: To answer ... | |
| 240/120 Voltage | 7/20/2009 |
| Q: I live in a country where 240 volts is standard. The electrical wiring is complete with 3 wires,(2 ... A: This is a safety concern, because you have connected the white to the ground. Whenever current is ... | |
| Ressessed Can Light Codes | 7/19/2009 |
| Q: I am installing (6) Halo 6" H7RICT ressessed can lights in my kitchen remodel project and am ... A: If the cans are rated IC, then they can have insulation installed directly on top of it. If not IC, ... | |
| 3 Way Wiring? | 7/18/2009 |
| Q: I have a light switch that controls too many outlets and both top and bottom. I want the switch to ... A: From your description, it sounds like the change in the wiring will need to be done in the 1st ... | |
| panel box | 7/17/2009 |
| Q: are there height requirements for installing a panel box...especially under a staircase. We live in ... A: Check with your local inspector to get the answer for your area. The NEC does not give a height ... | |
| Wiring Bedroos and Baths | 7/17/2009 |
| Q: Rick, First thanks for your time in providing answers - it is appreciated. I am rewiring some ... A: Check your local codes first. They may requie different things than the NEC does. Q#1: NO to ... | |
| 2 separate lights, 2 switches, same box, one outlet | 7/17/2009 |
| Q: I replaced two switches in the same box (one bath light, one hall light). Included is a wire for the ... A: It sounds like you may have connected the hall light to the hot wire, instead of connecting it to ... | |
| Bonding steel beams | 7/16/2009 |
| Q: What size wire is required for bonding 2 steel beams in a basement of a residence? If I fill all ... A: "Hi Peter. Unless there is a chance that the beams could become energized, don't worry about ... | |
| Stablock failures and replacement | 7/16/2009 |
| Q: Recently we’ve had 2 circuit breaker failures. We currently have Stablock breakers (single poles are ... A: Usually, manufacturers will warranty their boxes only if their brand of breakers is installed. I ... | |
| Breaking transformer | 7/15/2009 |
| Q: I have a sprinkler system with 6 outlets controlled by 24V valves controlled by an electronic ... A: All I can think of is your replacement transformers are too small for the job. I would suggest you ... | |
| Outlet stopped working | 7/15/2009 |
| Q: I have an outdoor outlet that was working and then stopped. I have a snapit three prong tester; I ... A: This could be bacause the gfci protecting this outlet has tripped. The gfci could be elsewhere in ... | |
| Switch Wiring | 7/14/2009 |
| Q: I bought a home about a year ago, and there is a switch that turns on power to a light on my porch ... A: This looks like a 3-way switch diagram. Is there another switch somewhere that doesn't seem to ... | |
| 3 Way Switches Keep Failing | 7/14/2009 |
| Q: Our home is now 6 years old. We have 12 or 13 3-way switches in the house. Within 1 year of being ... A: My first thought was that the electrician was using cheap switches, but you say you had heavy duty ... | |
| Aluminum-Copper wiring | 7/14/2009 |
| Q: Can Copper and Aluminum wiring be spliced together? I recently installed a Garage door Opener where ... A: You can splice the two, but you need to make sure the wirenut you use is approved for copper to ... | |
| Electrical Problem | 7/13/2009 |
| Q: What could be possible problems for a room to loose power and the breaker DID NOT tripped? I use a ... A: It sounds like you may have a loose connection at some point in the electrical system. I don't know ... | |
| Refrigerator circuit requirement | 7/12/2009 |
| Q: In a house I bought from a builder 10 years ago, the refrigerator outlet is connected on a GFCI ... A: Having a refrigerator on a gfci protected circuit probably won't be a problem, but there has been ... | |
| Celing Fan Wiring | 7/10/2009 |
| Q: I live in a home with a flat roof with no access to crawl space. The living room has 17' celings ... A: Without seeing how this is actually wired, I would think that it can't be done like you want to. ... | |
| grounding water meter | 7/10/2009 |
| Q: An inspector said that my water meter is improperly grounded. Where should the ground clamps be in ... A: This is not grounding, but bonding. It looks like the lower clamp is below the valve, which would ... | |
| Slater Electric Switches | 7/9/2009 |
| Q: In a mobile home, we find all outlets/light switches are made by Slater. It is a self-contained ... A: I suggest you visit ... | |
| Wiring in bathroom | 7/9/2009 |
| Q: I am remodeling my master bath and I have 3 questions: 1. I understand that you must supply one 20A ... A: You can supply everything in that one bathroom with the dedicated 20 amp circuit, or you can just ... | |
| remote building power line | 7/9/2009 |
| Q: I have a 40 year old cabin in northern WI. It has a remote boat house about 200' away. I want to ... A: I would recommend that you use the same cable that utilities use, which consists of 2 insulated ... | |
| Adding subpanel to an old main panel rated at 70 amp | 7/8/2009 |
| Q: I have a main panel with 6 poles, each breaker says 20amp, the box on the outside says what I think ... A: I recommend that you upgrade your home's service to 200amp, and if the box is in good shape, ... | |
| service line | 7/8/2009 |
| Q: The power co. wants $16k to run 600 ft above ground to a meter base 100 ft from my site. ... A: I can't advise on where to purchase, so you will just need to look for the best price. Visit ... | |
| home load center | 7/7/2009 |
| Q: I bought a 200 amp square d qo load center to replace the existing fuse box that was originally in ... A: The box bonding screw will attach between the grounding buss and the enclosure. If you look at the ... | |
| Price? | 7/7/2009 |
| Q: I'm not sure if you know anything about the price of powering a condo, but here goes. My dad owns a ... A: I'm sorry, but this is a question that has too many varibles to answer. Hoever, if yuou could list ... | |
| Fan and light switch | 7/6/2009 |
| Q: My sister has a switch that has two switches on it, one for the ceiling fan and one for the light. ... A: I would think that you have it right, the fan/light is not connected to the red wire. I don't think ... | |
| Price? | 7/6/2009 |
| Q: I'm not sure if you know anything about the price of powering a condo, but here goes. My dad owns a ... A: Usually a short will cause more troubles than a high bill. I would suggest your dad check with ... | |
| breaker | 7/5/2009 |
| Q: will a breaker going bad cause a problem with a electric hot water heater not to heat properly? A: Sure it could, but chances are that you have an element on the water heater that has gone bad. I ... | |
| dimmer switch | 7/4/2009 |
| Q: hey there. i'd like to install a dimmer switch to control a light fixture in the dining room. the ... A: I would recommend you remove both switches, marking the wires that are common to both switches as ... | |
| outside outlet | 7/4/2009 |
| Q: we are having new siding put on the house and the crew removed the old outlet. my question is what ... A: You can install the outlet either way, but you will need to provide gfci protection to this outlet, ... | |
| 3-way switches | 7/4/2009 |
| Q: Hay Rick, i had asked ben a question about a 3-way switch that acts as a master switch, when in the ... A: I believe you are like me in that you would rather look at diagram than words. I suggest you visit ... | |
| I need to re-wire a room to 220V from the fuse box | 7/3/2009 |
| Q: I need to rewire a 120 V 30Amp fuze circut to a 220 volt 200 Amp circut from a fuze box to a room. ... A: From your question, I am assuming that you have no experience in electricity, so I suggest you hire ... | |
| Length of wire | 7/3/2009 |
| Q: I want to run electricity to my garage which is about 130 feet away from the panel. I just need 110 ... A: I would recommend that you run a 60amp circuit (240v) to a subpanel in the garage, where you can ... | |
| bad meter | 7/2/2009 |
| Q: My last power bill was a little lower than what I was expecting. I thought they might have read the ... A: I suggest that you do give them a call, but even if you don't they will see the lower consumption ... | |
| urd electric cable | 7/2/2009 |
| Q: can you install this cable straight in the ground or does it need to go through a duct. How deep ... A: URD cable is approved for direct burial, but is not allowed to be installed inside of buildings. As ... | |
| Old house with ungrounded outlets | 7/2/2009 |
| Q: I live in a house that was built around the 40's and has two prong outlets all over the house. I'm ... A: This is not exactly dangerous, but the fix is fairly involved. Since the home is over 60 years old, ... | |
| open ground outlet | 7/1/2009 |
| Q: I have an open nground outlet. Initially it was reading reverse polarity. I removed the outlet and ... A: Have you opened up the other outlets? They may have a wiring addition which will show up as good ... | |
| Open grounds on 3 prong outlets | 6/30/2009 |
| Q: I am in the process of selling a 120 year old house. Prior to my purchasing it 2+ years ago the ... A: Ungrounded three wire outlets are a problem, and should be adressed. Most likely the box was never ... | |
| adding a dimmer switch | 6/24/2009 |
| Q: Rick, I have 2 switches in one box, 1 controls the porch light, 1 controls the kitchen lights. I ... A: You probably had 1 wire inside the box that attached to two different screws on different switches. ... | |
| double switch wiring | 6/24/2009 |
| Q: I have an standard overhead light/fan (the fan is turned on/off by a chain which hangs down. There's ... A: Your double switch combo should have a metal link between two of the screws, on one side or the ... | |
| Grounding Receptacles in Old Homes | 6/24/2009 |
| Q: Our old house has mostly 2 prong outlets. An electrician installed 3 wall lights that had 3 prong ... A: The wall lights are incorrectly wired, and are an electrical hazard. You never use the neutral wire ... | |
| RNC | 6/23/2009 |
| Q: Does code allow 1/2" or 3/4" sch 40 or sch 80 PVC conduit directly on the underside of joists ( ... A: You can attach pvc conduit on the underside of joists, however your question states "across at ... | |
| electrical | 6/23/2009 |
| Q: what is the common wire from the house in a 3 way hook up with a timer thank you A: If you are asking which wire will land on the common terminal on a 3-way switch, it will either be ... | |
| installing gfci | 6/22/2009 |
| Q: I am trying to install a gfci with a light switch and receptacle with out much luck. The receptacle ... A: I think I have it now. You are replacing a stacked switch/outlet combo with a stacked sw/outlet ... | |
| electrical outlets | 6/22/2009 |
| Q: We just had a house build. They put only ONE electrical outlet in our basement which is being used ... A: The builder, as far as I know, does not have to provide this extra outlet, though why he wouldn't is ... | |
| Grounding of switches | 6/22/2009 |
| Q: I had a new house built in NY state. None of the wall switches are grounded. The ground wire is in ... A: According to the 2008 National Electrical Code, Article 404.9(B), all swiches are to be grounded. ... | |
| Placement of switch | 6/21/2009 |
| Q: I understand that the Code requires the switch to be placed in the "hot" line. Is there a reason ... A: I believe the main reason is so that there will not be live voltage at the fixture, when the switch ... | |
| NEC requirement household refrigerator | 6/21/2009 |
| Q: Does the NEC require a dedicated circuit for a household refrigerator? What article number in NEC ... A: The 2008 NEC does not require a dedicated circuit, unless the rating of the unit is such that the ... | |
| 700 ft distance wiring | 6/21/2009 |
| Q: i have a 700 ft run of 125amps for a camp with 1 220 ac and 1 220 water well pump and 1 refrigerator ... A: I don't have my codebook handy, but I will give you a link to figure your voltage drop, and then you ... | |
| Washington regulations on testing instaltions | 6/20/2009 |
| Q: Looking at your experience in electrical engineering I would like you to share it with a little. I ... A: Sorry, Piotr, I don't know about the other experts here, and I don't know about any companies in ... | |
| Generator wire size | 6/20/2009 |
| Q: What size wire do I need to run from the generator to the main panel. I'm using a 20KW generator ... A: I don't have my codebook handy, however, 153 amps should be ok on around a 1/0 copper, but you will ... | |
| Power Supply Design. | 6/19/2009 |
| Q: Rick. I have a deep empty lot on the river. I am being told that I can run secondary wiring from the ... A: This is a pretty long distance to run, however it can be done. I notice you are in Canada, so I ... | |
| Washington regulations on testing instaltions | 6/19/2009 |
| Q: Looking at your experience in electrical engineering I would like you to share it with a little. I ... A: As you said, there is regulations driven by the NEC, however local authorities have to adopt it ... | |
| Extending a circuit | 6/18/2009 |
| Q: A co-worker has had remodeling done in his bathroom involving new granite vanity tops and "we" need ... A: You cannot splice a cable anywhere but in a box, so you can't do as you suggest. I recommend you ... | |
| adding a 240 outlet | 6/18/2009 |
| Q: I would like to get a clothes dryer but I don't know if the electric service to the house has the ... A: From your description, it sounds like you have only a 60 amp service, which would not be large ... | |
| Low Voltage Touch Plate problem | 6/17/2009 |
| Q: I have the old touch plate low voltage system in my home. My bathroom light suddenly will not go ... A: I think you are probably correct in thinking your relay is bad, however I don't think you can here ... | |
| Grounding | 6/17/2009 |
| Q: Rick, Thanks in advance for your time. I have three questions about grounding my electrical ... A: You can drive it until it just is covered, or deeper if you want. If the existing wire is long ... | |
| pigtail connection in a box | 6/17/2009 |
| Q: Ok, it's been a long time since I've done residential wiring, and I've never done a pigtail before. ... A: Depending on the size of the box, you may or may not have the room to do this. I like the idea of ... | |
| wiring generator to water well pump | 6/16/2009 |
| Q: I am off the grid and use a generator to run the water well pump. Is there a way to wire it so it ... A: In order to have it run you have to install either a pressure switch, which will turn on the pump ... | |
| power meter replacement | 6/16/2009 |
| Q: Our utility company recently replaced the power meter while my wife was online - even though both ... A: I know of no such data. I do know that most utilities will turn off the main breaker on a service ... | |
| strange wiring | 6/16/2009 |
| Q: I have a problem with an old light switch which does not turn off the light. The switch sits in a ... A: This sounds like low voltage switching, tho I havn't seen the type of switch you mention. You ... | |
| Voltage Drop question | 6/15/2009 |
| Q: My parents had some electrical work done and I talked with the electrician doing the work. He ran ... A: The NEC does not have a rule for voltage drop. They recommend between 3 and 5 percent as the amount ... | |
| 3-way switches | 6/15/2009 |
| Q: I replaced both switches for a hall light removing the old one and replacing with the new ones. ... A: I suspect that you still have the wiring incorrect. Go to ... | |
| hooking up new service line from hub to meter | 3/17/2009 |
| Q: how do i hook up a new service line from the top of the house to the meter working hot A: My stock answer for a question like this is: "If you have to ask, then you are not qualified to do ... | |
| New Light fixture does turn off | 3/17/2009 |
| Q: Trying to install a replacement ceiling light fixture. Wiring is original in our 1955 house. Coming ... A: David, you can try this before covering everything up. If it works correctly, go ahead and cap off ... | |
| Aluminum wiring | 3/16/2009 |
| Q: I know there is a lot of concern with aluminum branch wiring which was installed from 1965 to around ... A: All metal conductors go thru the heating cycle. Aluminum wire that is not connected to approved ... | |
| Whole House Surge Suppressor | 3/15/2009 |
| Q: I have looked for, have but been unable to find, comparisons on whole house surge suppressors. Home ... A: One solution for not having the required breaker space is to install a larger panel, with more ... | |
| New GFCI not working, lights on same breaker work | 3/15/2009 |
| Q: I was using a hairdryer, when I assumed I tripped the GFCI. It wouldn't reset. I replaced the GFCI ... A: It sounds like either you have another GFCI in this line, ahead of this outlet, or you have a loose ... | |
| New Light fixture does turn off | 3/14/2009 |
| Q: Trying to install a replacement ceiling light fixture. Wiring is original in our 1955 house. Coming ... A: Since you wired the new fixture just like the old one, the switch should work like it did before. ... | |
| Installing Tankless water heater | 3/14/2009 |
| Q: I want to install a tankless water heater to replace our 50 year old boiler. The models I am ... A: If you don't already have an electric dryer and range, then adding the water heater should not ... | |
| why is my electric so high | 3/14/2009 |
| Q: I have only been in my place a month and a hslf. My electric bill was $412.00from Jan. 30 - March ... A: The main reason for a high bill is because you are using alot of electrical energy. In order to see ... | |
| Completely Replacing Aluminum Wire | 3/13/2009 |
| Q: I have a few questions and tend to be verbose, so please bear with me. 1. I am looking at ... A: Jeff, the newer devices have terminals that are rated for either aluminum or copper. Creep does ... | |
| Service panel | 3/13/2009 |
| Q: I am upgrading my electrical service from 125 amps to 200 amps.I have an 200 amp square d main ... A: For the top of the box, you have to use a special hub arrangement in order to enter the box. The Sq. ... | |
| Heat pump & air handler installation. | 3/13/2009 |
| Q: I am doing all the electrical wiring on a house I am remodling and adding on to. I have done a lot ... A: Appliances need to be installed according to their nameplate data. In your case: heat pump: Line ... | |
| sudden high electric bill | 3/12/2009 |
| Q: We live in the house for more than 3 years, and since the past 3 months, the electric bill had gone ... A: Loose connections can be a cause of increased consumtion. This will need to be repaired. You might ... | |
| 1920s | 3/12/2009 |
| Q: i am doing a project that involves the wiring methods of the 1920s but have no idea what the codes ... A: I'm not sure what I can do to help. I have a copy of the Los Angeles Wiremans Handbook, 1923 ... | |
| Completely Replacing Aluminum Wire | 3/12/2009 |
| Q: I have a few questions and tend to be verbose, so please bear with me. 1. I am looking at ... A: Wow, you have done your homework. I agree exactly with your feelings on this safety issue. You are ... | |
| Service panel | 3/11/2009 |
| Q: I am upgrading my electrical service from 125 amps to 200 amps.I have an 200 amp square d main ... A: You can punch a hole in the side of most enclosures. You will want to keep it (the new hole) lower ... | |
| heater | 3/10/2009 |
| Q: I live in an apartment, and I have an electric heater. When I don't need it, I shut its power off. ... A: Are you sure it reads FP and not PF. Since you are turning off it's power, this could indicate ... | |
| Dayton G73 heater | 3/10/2009 |
| Q: I installed a Dayton G73 heater today and have a few concerns. First off I installed a double pole ... A: A couple of thoughts. Are you sure you installed the breaker in a way that you get 240volts across ... | |
| Tanning Bed | 3/9/2009 |
| Q: My wife found a tanning bed for sale at a great price... The specs are: Royal Sun 44/6 Turbo VHR ... A: You cannot get 3-phase power from a single phase panel. Sorry about that. You might want to search ... | |
| fan/light bathromm | 3/9/2009 |
| Q: inslalling a fan/light in bathroom, i have a whit and black wire to switch on wall and white and ... A: Your black from fuse box is the hot wire, while the white wire is your neutral. The hot wire will ... | |
| ELECTRICAL WIRING | 3/8/2009 |
| Q: IS ALUMINUM COATED COPPER (ALUMINUM CLAD COPPER) WIRE ACCEPTABLE IN STATE OF ILLINOIS? WE JUST A ... A: I'm not familiar with Illinois's rules, but aluminum wiring is an approved method of wiring in the ... | |
| 2-prong outlet - replace or rewire for computer? | 3/8/2009 |
| Q: Rick, First let me thank you and your site for the free service! I recently got married and moved ... A: It sounds like you have the basics down on this. I would suggest you get some local estimates on ... | |
| wiring a 220 volt 30 amp sauna heater | 3/7/2009 |
| Q: Rick, thanks for your time. I'm familiar with 110 v wiring, but new to 220 v wiring. I'm ... A: I would suggest you run your circuit to a GFCI disconnect ( which is identified for 240v) located ... | |
| Electric Baseboard Heaters | 3/7/2009 |
| Q: I am continuing to have a problem with one circuit of electric baseboard heaters. There are 4ea 220 ... A: You might be seeing low voltage due to the number of heaters on one circuit. You can try to disable ... | |
| Residential Voltage Fluctuations | 3/7/2009 |
| Q: I have a "Monster Power HTS 3600" electrical power management system for my home AV equipment. On ... A: 127 volts is not something that you should be worried about. It usually means the power company is ... | |
| Electrical pole | 3/6/2009 |
| Q: Due to my parents bad health we have had to move onto their property in our fifth wheel. What I ... A: There are many examples of services both on the web and in books, so I suggust you look for these. ... | |
| Electric Heat Pump Furnace Disconnect | 3/5/2009 |
| Q: Does NEC require a disconnect switch within site of an electric heat pump furnace? The house I am ... A: Article 422.31(B) would be the section you are wanting. A disconnect is required to be within sight ... | |
| Outdoor patio light | 3/5/2009 |
| Q: I replaced the outdoor patio light with a new bulb. It didn't light up. I replaced again. Could it ... A: Both of the items you list could cause the problem. I suggest you check for voltage at the fixture, ... | |
| Electrical sag problems in our home. | 3/3/2009 |
| Q: We've experienced sags in our electricity for two years. Lately the lights flicker off/on and then ... A: Voltages like you are seeing are usually caused by a loose or bad connections, either on the neutral ... | |
| Main Breaker Box as Subpanel | 3/2/2009 |
| Q: May a main breaker box (as opposed to a main lug) be used for a subpanel? I'd like the break, in ... A: You may use the main breaker panel, without any concerns to your grounding. You may want to us a ... | |
| Light Fixture | 11/24/2008 |
| Q: I bought a light fixture for my dining room, there are 3 wires coming from the light it self. There ... A: The bare wire from the fixture will attach to the ground, if there is one, in the box. If no ... | |
| 240 volt 30 amp circuit in attached garage | 11/24/2008 |
| Q: I just bought a welder. The spec says that is draws 20.5 amps at 240 volt max. It has a NEMA 6-50P ... A: Anytime you modify a unit's wiring, you also void any warrenty you may have. If the welder's ... | |
| USE type wire prohibited uses | 11/23/2008 |
| Q: "Hi: I have a 400 amp u/g service (dual sweetbriers 4/0-4/0-2/0 al) being brought into a shop in ... A: "1. Can the 400 amp breaker box be fed with the same USE Al sweetbrier used in the U/G feed" If any ... | |
| outlet placement | 11/23/2008 |
| Q: I AM HELPING MY MOM WITH HER WE ARE PUTTING ALL NEW WIRES IN AND WANT TO PUT ANOTHER OUTLET ON A ... A: On the inside of the house, you can put an outlet right next to the door without any problem. You ... | |
| haw many watt has a digital clock | 11/22/2008 |
| Q: I've just bought a digital clock like the one posted to the link below. I just wonder how many watts ... A: It looks like this is a foreign clock, not for use in the USA. I have no experience with other ... | |
| 100 amp double pole breaker | 11/22/2008 |
| Q: For the last 3 weeks my main breaker in my panel has been tripping under normal circumstances (no ... A: If you can shut down all your loads, then you can either look at your meter or use a clap-on amp ... | |
| just bught an older mobile home an it still had the orignal screw in fuses | 11/22/2008 |
| Q: I'm switching out the boxes for a breaker needing to know what amp breakers are best to use for ... A: You will need to base the breaker size on the wire size. You can only use a 15amp breaker on wire ... | |
| Wiring a light and a switch from a plug socket | 11/20/2008 |
| Q: Im wondering can you help me.Im trying to put in a new light and switch in my hall.Ive taken the ... A: Usually one would run the cable from the plug box to a switch box, then to the light. In this case, ... | |
| Wiring a detached garage. | 11/20/2008 |
| Q: I have garage 10ft away from house. I sort of have a good handle on this but want to make sure. I ... A: You should check with your local inspector, who may have local rules about this. You should be able ... | |
| unused "live" switch | 11/19/2008 |
| Q: Just moved into a new home. The ceiling fan was originally wired with two switches, one for the ... A: There is no code which says you can not have aswitch that has power to it but with no load ... | |
| GFCI Receptacles in bathroom | 11/19/2008 |
| Q: I have a 12/3 wire running from regular breakers to our bathroom with two separate receptacles on it ... A: You say you pigtailed the gfci outlets together. If these two outlets are in the same box, then you ... | |
| Installing commercial 400 amp panel | 11/19/2008 |
| Q: need 400 amps in shop space. there are (2) 200 amp sockets available at the main service entrance. I ... A: From your question, it sounds like you may have limited experience with electricity. This is not ... | |
| FUSE PANEL ARCING | 11/18/2008 |
| Q: I awoke this morning to no heat. After a quick analysis I realized there was no power to the unit. ... A: First off, NEVER bypass a fuse, with a penny or anything else. This is dangerous. I have seen a ... | |
| Fuse panel | 11/18/2008 |
| Q: I have had a new fuse panel installed. The existing ground was routed into the meter box and ran ... A: Normally this is allowed, however if the nipple between the two enclosures is metal, you will need ... | |
| Wiring a Lincoln 225-s electrical welder | 11/18/2008 |
| Q: I have an older Lincoln 225-s, 240 volt electrical welder I wish to wire up. I understand it ... A: From the description of the plug, you do not need a neutral. I would try to find the instruction ... | |
| lights | 11/17/2008 |
| Q: an interior and exterior porch light do not come on right away. I will flip the switch and then a ... A: I would lean more towards the fixture having a loose or bent connection, usually the center tab of ... | |
| Outdoor wiring | 11/17/2008 |
| Q: I am rerouting some wiring in an outdoor location (pump house of a swimming pool) and need to join 2 ... A: There are approved rigid compression couplings made, so make sure that you use one of these. You ... | |
| 3-Way Switch dilemma | 11/16/2008 |
| Q: We would ideally like to remove the connection to the kitchen light and use the power to install a ... A: It looks like the lost box does not contain the required neutral for an outlet, so that part of the ... | |
| Ceiling Fixture | 11/16/2008 |
| Q: I am putting in a ceiling light and have 1 black, 1 red and 1 white wire in the ceiling. The ... A: Was the old fixture wired and working before you changed the fixture? You should be able to just ... | |
| Wiring tankless water heater | 11/15/2008 |
| Q: We live in an older home in the Northeast with an excruciatingly inefficient, ancient, oil boiler ... A: To answer your questions in order: Q. #1: Adding 60 amps to this service will not cause any ... | |
| new circuit | 11/14/2008 |
| Q: I'm moving my washer to a different location I'll have a couple of lights and three wall plugs in ... A: A circuit for the laundry equipment is required to be sized at 20 amps, so you will need to use a ... | |
| Wiring GFI outlet | 11/14/2008 |
| Q: Hey Rick,,I am a dog groomer in Canada and recently relocated to a new building. In our bathing ... A: I'm not familiar with Canada's rules on this. There may be other reasons for the electrician to say ... | |
| grounding garage sub panel | 11/14/2008 |
| Q: When putting in a new sub panel in a detached garage I understand that new grounding rods are ... A: Matt, if you don't have a return path (ground) then a fault will not trip any breaker. The reason ... | |
| wiring 2 baseboard heaters | 11/13/2008 |
| Q: While doing my electrical work, I had not planned for a thermostat controlling 2 baseboard heaters. ... A: It sounds like you have your power run to each heater, right? Some heaters can have a thermostat ... | |
| Noise from service panel and pole transformer | 11/12/2008 |
| Q: I sometimes hear a low pulsating hum in my bedroom. There is no audio equipment or TV in the ... A: I would recommend you find out first if the noise is from the house or the transformer. Turn off ... | |
| Combine 3 way and single way circuits into 4 way | 11/12/2008 |
| Q: I have a traditional set-up - two switches that control a light on my stairs. one switch downstairs, ... A: I'm certain this could be done if all the conditions are right. You will need to find out where the ... | |
| Arc fault and child-proof outlets | 11/11/2008 |
| Q: Is there an exception for senior citizens from the requirement for child-proof outlets where the ... A: There is no such exception in the 2008 NEC. You might try the appeal process with your local ... | |
| overhead power | 11/11/2008 |
| Q: i am wiring a 220v 60 amp subpanel overhead in a new garage 50 feet from the house and was told to ... A: You will need to run an overhead cable that has three insulated conductors (2 hots & 1 neutral), ... | |
| Adding ground to 2-wire house? | 11/11/2008 |
| Q: Okay, silly question... I have a 1950's house in Wyoming with insulated but ungrounded wiring. What ... A: Let's think about this for a while. You can run the seperate wire, which you say may be easier to ... | |
| Hurricane submerged light fixtures | 11/10/2008 |
| Q: Hurricane Ike went through Galveston and the storm surge flooded some light fixtures under my house ... A: It sounds like your switch may be failing. Try replacing it to see. Submersed wiring can wick ... | |
| Trouble with the red wire in a Gfi kitchen counter socket | 11/10/2008 |
| Q: I am up grading a kitchen ripped right down to studs and who ever wired them up before did a really ... A: It sounds like the black wire and the red wire may have been to feed the outlet. Check the old ... | |
| Electrical Wires near ductwork | 11/9/2008 |
| Q: I am installing three mini pendant lights over a breakfast bar and when I cut out the holes to put ... A: The space you mentioned is adequate. Don't worry about doing anything to the wire. The duct will ... | |
| Changing out a 3 pnt prong to a 4 pnt | 11/9/2008 |
| Q: My Maytag dryer has a 3 pronged cord that I am changing to a 4 pronged cord. I have a black wire ... A: I am hesitant to suggest which connect to which, without actually looking at a wiring diagram. You ... | |
| wiring built-in oven | 11/8/2008 |
| Q: I am remodeling my kitchen and replacing my free stand range with a cook top and built-in oven. The ... A: Code does allow you to connect both the cooktop and the range to the feeder that used to feed the ... | |
| lost neutral | 11/8/2008 |
| Q: small town library had lost neutral for short time. electrician is claiming all ballasts and tubes ... A: If the electrician were to pull a couple of the ballasts to prove to you that they are damaged, ... | |
| electrical light switch | 11/7/2008 |
| Q: My electrical light switch was on and the lights were on. I went to turn off the ligths by hitting ... A: If the switch is not working correctly, I would replace the switch. Turn power off, and remove the ... | |
| esb avalon16 residential tanning bed electrical help | 11/7/2008 |
| Q: We have a esb avalon16 bed that has always worked great but now shuts off automatically every couple ... A: Your problems may have been caused by the bed's plug, which sounds like it may have a loose ... | |
| Sub-panel Location | 11/6/2008 |
| Q: Can a sub-panel be located behind an open interior door? A: Unless this is a trick question, you can install a panel in the wall where the door swings to, when ... | |
| two wire outlet extension | 11/6/2008 |
| Q: Older house (1954) outlets wired with only two wires (no separate ground). However, Neutral wire ... A: connecting the neutral wire to the box, or to any other grounded surface beyond the main service ... | |
| lightning strike | 11/5/2008 |
| Q: My RV was was hit directly by lightning while driving in a rain storm in April of 2007. It shut the ... A: Keith, I suggest you ask around locally for electrical experts. You might check this web site ... | |
| Electrical Box | 11/4/2008 |
| Q: I've recently bought a house with a basement apartment. I believe it was renovated without permits. ... A: Article 240.24(E) of the National Electrical Code forbids overcurrent devices (such as fuses or ... | |
| circuit breaker box and codes | 11/3/2008 |
| Q: Our church has a breaker box on a focal wall. I would like to build some cabinets which would cover ... A: The code does have rules in place that forbid any type of structure being in front of the panel, up ... | |
| lightning strike | 11/3/2008 |
| Q: My RV was was hit directly by lightning while driving in a rain storm in April of 2007. It shut the ... A: You could run an insulation resistance test, using a machine called a megger, which injects a high ... | |
| surge protectors | 11/2/2008 |
| Q: I just bought a new tv and realized that there are only two prong outlets in my living room; I ... A: It sounds like the landloard may not know the whole story of electricity. It is a code violation to ... | |
| Electric wiring under new code | 11/2/2008 |
| Q: Sept 1st new code: If I close up a patio door in my master bedroom, do I now need to put every ... A: Different areas of the country have different rules on this type of work. I would suggest you ... | |
| Breaker Box/wiring | 11/1/2008 |
| Q: I have to upgrade my furnace which is 25 years old, the company will do the wiring to bring it to ... A: Upgrading one does not necessarily mean upgrading the other. As long as the furnace has it's own ... | |
| Wire Messenger Cable - Grounded or Not? | 11/1/2008 |
| Q: I want to run a 20-amp electrical wire overhead form my barn to my hen house, which is about a ... A: If the cable with the messenger has only two insulated wires, along with the bare messenger wire, ... | |
| connecting new wiring to old wiring | 11/1/2008 |
| Q: I am adding a new room and am now ready to connect the wiring to the old wiring of the house. I have ... A: It sounds like the red is your hot wire, so you will use it to feed your new wiring. You could also ... | |
| Service to shop | 10/31/2008 |
| Q: I'm building a shop 200' from my house and am planning to put in a 200 amp service there. I have a ... A: If the wires that will feed your shop do not have overcurrent protection, do not run through your ... | |
| Direct Burial Cable Limitations and Code | 10/31/2008 |
| Q: I have a lake house, with about 900' between the house and the dock. I am going to request a permit ... A: You did not say what the wattage was of the lamps, or what the load of the lift was. I will assume ... | |
| Is it safe to connect wires | 10/30/2008 |
| Q: I am remolding my bathroom and want to relocate the light fixture, however the existing electrical ... A: You can splice this way, but the splice will need to be in a box, with a cover, one that will be ... | |
| bundling ground wires in receptacle box. | 10/30/2008 |
| Q: I'm building my own house and wiring it myself. In many instances I have several #14 ground wires ... A: You are correct in that the code require the 6" of wire, so don't cut back on the grounds. You can ... | |
| 2 pole 20amp 220v gfci | 10/30/2008 |
| Q: I have a 12/3 romex going from the panel to whirlpool bath it requires a gfci 2pole 20amp 220v. Now ... A: It sounds like you have a tub that requires the following: 220volts, 20amps, with GFCI protection. ... | |
| 240 #6 wire 60 amp breaker | 10/29/2008 |
| Q: This may sound stupid but I just want to be safe. I am in the process of installing a new electric ... A: You will need to read the instructions and wiring diagram to find out where to terminate the neutral ... | |
| Unsafe electric? | 10/28/2008 |
| Q: If our lights flicker and the same circuit breaker is tripped on a daily basis, then does this mean ... A: I would think the actual wiring is ok, but you may have either some faulty devices (outlets) or that ... | |
| meter base | 10/28/2008 |
| Q: I am installing a 200 amp meter base with a built in 200 amp disconnect breaker back to back to a ... A: If you are talking about the grounds and neutrals in the inside panel, then yes they do have to be ... | |
| three way wiring | 10/27/2008 |
| Q: I wired my basement stairs the following way and have power but cannot get the three way switch, at ... A: From your discription I am not sure you used the correct type of switches. In order to switch a ... | |
| elect to garage | 10/26/2008 |
| Q: Plan to change main panel from 100amp to 200amp in the future. I need power in my garage now for ... A: #6 copper wire is only good for 50 amps. #4 can be used for 100 amps. #2 aluminum is also good for ... | |
| wall switch | 10/24/2008 |
| Q: I seem to have bypassed a wall switch when replacing it. Now all the wall plugs have power when the ... A: Dave, what action do you expect when the red touches the blacks? All that will happen is that the ... | |
| wall switches | 10/24/2008 |
| Q: I am replacing all outlets and switches in a home I just purchased. For the most part,it has been ... A: To make 2 switches work one light, both of the switches need to be 3-way switches. If you have more ... | |
| wire a exhaust fan to light switch | 10/24/2008 |
| Q: I have a bathroom light that I want to replace with a light and exhaust combo, the existing wiring ... A: It sounds like you may have unhooked all your wires and did not make a diagram of your existing ... | |
| Light - Receptacle - Switch | 10/23/2008 |
| Q: I'm finishing part of the basement and am running new service along one wall. The power enters a ... A: This is one way of doing it. I would have run power to the light, then ran 2 cables from it, one ot ... | |
| 240V/ 3 wire | 10/23/2008 |
| Q: My house is 14 years old and I am installing a new range(gas with electric oven) in my kitchen ... A: Question 1. Can I use this existing circuit with my new range or do I need to run a new 10/3 wire ... | |
| Generator wiring with no connection to main house panel | 10/22/2008 |
| Q: I just bought a generator for my house, 5500 W with 6275 W surge, and I want to install a permanent ... A: I would recommend you use a SO cord with #10 wire in it, feeding into a small breaker panel. From ... | |
| burnt out bulbs | 10/22/2008 |
| Q: Even florescent lighting. The electric company checked for voltage surges and found none. Could an ... A: An improper ground would only come into play if you have problems with you incoming neutral, which ... | |
| Outlet Installation/Bathroom Fan | 10/22/2008 |
| Q: Please bear with my layman's terms....I'm trying to install a new bathroom outlet which has a ... A: Take a good look at the device. On the right side, you should see a metal link between the two ... | |
| Arc fault Circuit | 10/21/2008 |
| Q: Rick, I have done all the wiring on my new home. I have a cutler hammer panel box. Wiring is 12 ... A: I would remove the wiring from the outlet, that continues on to the other outlets. That will leave ... | |
| electrical hum | 10/20/2008 |
| Q: I have a constant pulsating hum going through my house. At night it is so loud I haven't slept for ... A: Since you state that when you turn the power off the sound is still there, I would think the sound ... | |
| underground service wire | 10/19/2008 |
| Q: I had posed this question to another expert and got the reply below, which does not answer my ... A: I'm afraid you won't be able to use this cable as you want to. NM-B cable is not approved for wet ... | |
| Transformer for Home Security System | 10/19/2008 |
| Q: I have a Napco home security system. Recently I happened to look at it and the plug in transformer ... A: A GFCI will not trip due to heat. If one wire or the other shorts out, the GFCI will open up. You ... | |
| grounding aluminum home siding | 10/19/2008 |
| Q: I discovered that the grounding wire from the aluminum siding is gone. The ground post is in the ... A: Are you sure that this wire was for grounding of the siding? I have never seen one. It could be ... | |
| Ceiling light | 10/17/2008 |
| Q: I want to replace my ceiling light in the room I just finished. I have replaced many ceiling lights ... A: Normally, when power is brought to the fixture first, the black hot wire will connect to the white ... | |
| help | 10/17/2008 |
| Q: I remolding my kitchen and bathroom in a small cape style house. I would like to know if I am ... A: The reason for skipping the outlets in the kitchen are to keep you from putting all your appliances ... | |
| Adding a new circuit to existing boxes | 10/16/2008 |
| Q: I am installing recessed lighting in my living room. Due to the additional wattage, I am installing ... A: Box fill is an important issue, so you will need to figure fill, then get a box large enough to ... | |
| wall switch | 10/16/2008 |
| Q: I seem to have bypassed a wall switch when replacing it. Now all the wall plugs have power when the ... A: Did you also replace any outlets? Normally, only 1/2 of each outlet is switch controlled, with the ... | |
| GFCI outlets | 10/16/2008 |
| Q: Are GFCI outlets required in a house that was built in the 50's ANSWER: Hi Jeff. The National ... A: The only way to get this answer would be to get some estimates locally, as different parts of the ... | |
| electrical problem | 10/15/2008 |
| Q: We had our house inspected and the inspector said our outlets in one room were coming up ground ... A: Somewhere you have the ground wire connected where the neutral wire should be, most likely at one of ... | |
| GFCI outlets | 10/15/2008 |
| Q: Are GFCI outlets required in a house that was built in the 50's A: The National Electrical Code is not retro-active, that is, the code can not make rules now for ... | |
| lights over s jacuzzi tub | 10/14/2008 |
| Q: I am remodeling a home and installing a jacuzzi tub. The contractor wants to put 2 lights over the ... A: Code does allow luminaires marked for damp or wet locations to be installed here, as long as they or ... | |
| Repair of chafed electrical wire | 10/14/2008 |
| Q: I damaged a wire with my drill chuck while performing some work. It is a 2 conductor, 12 gauge, ... A: to properly repair this, you will need to bring the insulation back up to orginal standards. Since ... | |
| outdoor box | 10/13/2008 |
| Q: I want to install a dimmer switch on the outside of a garage. I have a single gang outdoor box with ... A: It sounds like alot of work to just install a switch box. You can buy old-works boxes that will fit ... | |
| split recepticle to two single | 10/13/2008 |
| Q: I have to relocate some aplayances to other sid of my kitchen, so my question is: Can I remove ... A: This should be ok to do. I question the use of 15amp breakers, as both of these appliances require ... | |
| wiring | 10/13/2008 |
| Q: I have been trying to replace my switches and receptacles to make the colors match. My bathroom has ... A: You will need to find out which set of wires is the feed to this outlet, and where the 2nd set goes. ... | |
| Meter clip replacement | 10/12/2008 |
| Q: I had an electrical problem at an apt I own. The tenants said the lights were dimming and a breaker ... A: I don't know what the meter clip is, but since you did call the electrician in after hours, you ... | |
| LG Electric Dryer. | 10/12/2008 |
| Q: Sir, I am currently on assignment in the United State and have puchased the following Items: ... A: You are wise to check on the differences in voltages before using the equipment. The main ... | |
| GFCI Outlets | 10/11/2008 |
| Q: I am planning a new kitchen. The walls are open and the work will all be visible and reachable. ... A: As long as you meet the requirements for circuits in the kitchen, which is at least two 20amp small ... | |
| electrical behind ceiling tile | 10/11/2008 |
| Q: If I use ceiling tiles to finish me basement (to have access to electrical wire and low voltage ... A: Unless there are local codes that forbid using cable (NM-B), then you can use it above the ceiling ... | |
| NEMA 6-30P to NEMA 14-50R | 10/11/2008 |
| Q: I need to plug a NEMA 6-30P (4800 W, 240 VAC garage heater) into a NEMA 14-50R (outlet receptacle ... A: In order to protect this heater, you would need to change both the outlet to match the cord, and ... | |
| Wiring a receptacle thats hooked to dimmer | 10/9/2008 |
| Q: I have a dimmer that controls the top outlet of 2 separate receptacles. One receptacle was broke so ... A: First off, it is a code violation to install a dimmer on a receptacle. You will damage electrical ... | |
| defective electric meter | 10/9/2008 |
| Q: our electric provider is charging us for a billing adjustment that covers 6 months. based on the ... A: The only way to safely say that the meter accuracy was as you state in #5, is to have had it checked ... | |
| Pump running backwards | 10/8/2008 |
| Q: What will make a 480 3 phase pump in a sump, that all it does is pump out water from the rain, that ... A: Any 3-phase motor will run in one direction with a certain hookup, and then run the other direction ... | |
| meter to point of entry distance | 10/8/2008 |
| Q: working on a new overhead and meter socket,the distance between meter socket and point of entry to ... A: This will have to be answered by your local inspector. I would think that if the leads were run ... | |
| defective electric meter | 10/8/2008 |
| Q: our electric provider is charging us for a billing adjustment that covers 6 months. based on the ... A: I'm not sure what your question is, but I would be willing to bet that, if the meter was reading ... | |
| Fluorescent light | 10/7/2008 |
| Q: I installed 2 brand new 8' fluroscent light fixtures in my garage. The 1 quit working already. ... A: First off, verify that the ballast is correct for the supplied voltage, which should be 120v in your ... | |
| Spa wiring | 10/2/2008 |
| Q: I have installed a SPA with a 50 amp GFCI outside box to a standard 50 amp 240 breaker in the house. ... A: Do you read 240v when testing the back to red leads? If not, make sure that the breaker is ... | |
| INSTALLING TWO PARALLEL SWITCHES FOR CONTROL OF TWO SEPARATE LIGHTS | 10/2/2008 |
| Q: Ok I have a single simple switch which controle a ligth inside the house and close to it a timer ... A: What you have is a hot wire (w1) and 2 switch legs (w2 & w3) with w1 being common to both switches. ... | |
| Power meter connection | 10/1/2008 |
| Q: I own half of a duplex. The power meter is fed by 3 lines that go to a double meter box that has a ... A: There is a possibility that the lugs are replaceable, but I recommend you get an electrician to look ... | |
| double luugging | 10/1/2008 |
| Q: Why is this not safe? What are the hazards? If its found as an existing panel MUST it be removed, ... A: Double lugging, or installing more than one wire under a terminal screw or lug, is a code violation ... | |
| gang box | 9/30/2008 |
| Q: I ran a new line which has 3 lines branching from it (living room outside wall, kitchen outside wall ... A: A better idea would be to install a 4-sq box and a single device mud ring, which will give you the ... | |
| dryer connection | 9/29/2008 |
| Q: My dryer has a three prong connection. The receptacle at my new house is 4 prong, and has four ... A: You will need to replace the cord with a 4-wire type. At the connection for the cord, there will ... | |
| Pre-wired ceiling light box, where's the switch? | 9/29/2008 |
| Q: In our living room we have a box which is pre-wired for a dome light. In this same room there is a ... A: Josh, there are tracing devices out there, but they are fairly expensive. You know that you have a ... | |
| vandels strippped the copper wiring from the house I'm considering buying. | 9/28/2008 |
| Q: vandals stripped the copper wiring from the house I'm considering buying. It's a small cottage ... A: If this is an existing home, not just being built, then I would bet the cost would be substantial. ... | |
| Pre-wired ceiling light box, where's the switch? | 9/28/2008 |
| Q: In our living room we have a box which is pre-wired for a dome light. In this same room there is a ... A: Chances are that the ceiling box was provided for a paddle fan and light, and may not include a ... | |
| Recepticle Replacement NOT So Simple - Spagetti Wires | 9/28/2008 |
| Q: I am a DIY and have learned by reading (put in a 2 chandeliers, pendant, spot and track lighting ... A: The pigtailed wires (the short pieces of wires connected to the black wire) are providing the hot ... | |
| When replacing a light bulb doesn't solve the problem | 9/27/2008 |
| Q: I have four light sockets in my kitchen. Recently 2 lights burnt out. Thinking the bulbs burnt out ... A: You did not say what type of fixture this was. If it is a recessed can, then the over-temp sensor ... | |
| dryer wiring error | 9/27/2008 |
| Q: I just remodeled an old cabin and put 10-2 wire in for the dryer instead of 10-3. The walls have ... A: since this is a new install, code says to use the 4-wire cable. In the olden days, you could use a ... | |
| Hot tub outlet question | 9/27/2008 |
| Q: I recently had some warranty work done on my 120 volt hot tub. The repair guy said the way it was ... A: There is no problem with wiring this tub the way you state. All outside outlets are required to ... | |
| upgrading to electric baseboard heat in 100 Amp Panel | 9/26/2008 |
| Q: I have recently wanted to install 3 new 20 amp double pole breakers to my existing 100 Amp panel. ... A: I would not think you would have any problems adding these loads to your service. You can basically ... | |
| not sure. | 9/25/2008 |
| Q: just wanted to know if its something i can fix or if i should call a professional i have a light ... A: It sounds like you are talking about the light flickering and not coming on, is this correct. does ... | |
| Transformers | 9/25/2008 |
| Q: I am inquiring about the proper way, code wise, to install a 24 V transformer. I would like to ... A: Most 24v transformers are meant to be mounted so the 120v side is in a jbox. There are some that ... | |
| Fluorescent lighting connectons | 9/24/2008 |
| Q: I have a 4ft.-2 bulb fluorescent light on ceiling where power comes in, and switch on wall to turn ... A: You will need to identify your wires, then post back. What color of wires at fixture, what color of ... | |
| Running 3 Phase motor on single phase 220 | 9/24/2008 |
| Q: I have a Compumotor system made by Parker. I thing it is dated around 1993. It has a (115) ... A: If the unit requires 240volts, 3-phase, then that is what you are required to use for it to run. ... | |
| Electric panel boxes | 9/23/2008 |
| Q: My electric panel box is full and I want to add another circuit. Will I violate the electric code ... A: Ted, the rating (capacity) for the panel is 200amps. If either leg on the main breaker draws more ... | |
| lighting | 9/23/2008 |
| Q: My question is a simple one, but wording it seems to have caused some confusion as I've gotten ... A: There is no way to do both A & B. The attached drawing shows how to wire it for B. This will allow ... | |
| 230 volt airconditioner plug | 9/22/2008 |
| Q: Why is the unit not coming on when I ran from the panel two hot wires and a ground? When I remove ... A: You did not state what the nameplate of the unit calls for as far as voltage is concerned. If it ... | |
| Service Entrance Disconnect | 9/22/2008 |
| Q: Is the 6 foot requiremen for distance between meter and load ceter,the physical location of the ... A: I'm not sure what 6' rule this is, most likely a local rule, so you should check with your local ... | |
| Amperage on Ground wire | 9/21/2008 |
| Q: Is it normal to see several Amps (with a clamp meter) on your ground wire (bonded to water pipes) ... A: It does sound like you may have a loose or bad neutral feeding your home. I would contact the power ... | |
| Outside light | 9/21/2008 |
| Q: I am replacing a customer's outside spotlight. She told me it stopped working all of a sudden and ... A: If there is no way to look at the j-box, then you may have to rewire, providing you can find a hot ... | |
| Air line in electrical conduit | 9/21/2008 |
| Q: I have a workshop with a 1" PVC conduit in the concrete floor running to the center of the shop. ... A: Tempting as it may be, it is a code violation to install anything other than wires in this conduit. ... | |
| service entrance | 9/20/2008 |
| Q: I have a dual meter base that was installed when house built in 1959. It is there because the power ... A: The National Electrical Code is silent on this issue. I recommend that you contact your local ... | |
| GFCI Problem | 9/19/2008 |
| Q: I have a GFCI outlet with two additional outlets on the load side...1 for the garbage disposal (with ... A: The only thing you did not mention that you did was to check the switch for the disposal. Make sure ... | |
| Adding a neutral wire | 9/18/2008 |
| Q: I have been told it is against code to add a single wire into an existing circuit, but ok to replace ... A: Replacing the 2-wire cable with a 3-wire cable will add a grounding conductor, which is ok. If you ... | |
| conductor size | 9/17/2008 |
| Q: what does 1/0, 2/0, 3/0 etc. mean please? Thanks very much A: The numbers listed are the AWG (American Wire Guage) size designator for a certain size of wire. ... | |
| home 2 seperate gradge power install | 9/17/2008 |
| Q: i need to know how deep under ground i have to bury the line . also should i put stone under it . im ... A: I will answer with the National Electrical Code answers, but you should check with your local ... | |
| Garage Wiring/ Basement Wiring | 9/16/2008 |
| Q: Our home was built in 1995. There is one outlet on the wall in the garage, and two overhead in a ... A: To answer your questions, in order: All 125v outlets installed in a garage are required to be GFCI ... | |
| outdoor lighting wiring | 9/15/2008 |
| Q: I am attempting to wire 2 dual light fixtures on my deck. The wiring was already installed. There is ... A: You will need to indentify each wire as to it's function. Use a voltage tester, and find out if one ... | |
| power bill too high | 9/15/2008 |
| Q: I recently had my air unit (inside and outside) replaced ever since then my electric bill has went ... A: I doubt that the new units will be the cause of this increase. Check the consumption this year ... | |
| wiring a hvac unit | 9/14/2008 |
| Q: My unit has a min. 55 amp - max. 60 amp rating. Can I use NM-B 6/2 copper with ground. Thank You ... A: I recommend that you take a look at the electrical nameplate for the unit. It will give you the ... | |
| 120v outlets read 50-70v | 9/14/2008 |
| Q: The outlets along one wall in living room read anywhere from 50-70 volts. The all breakers are ... A: I would check that you have not lost a neutral connection on one of your outlets. Take the last ... | |
| Wiring multiple use 220 cicuit | 9/14/2008 |
| Q: I am wiring a 30 Amp 220 circuit. I have wired it using 10/3 wire. This means I have two hots (red ... A: I will only address the code parts of this question. It is a code violation to install a lower ... | |
| 2 prong outlets | 9/13/2008 |
| Q: We are purchasing a home that has a lot of 2 prong outlets throughout the house. When we had the ... A: A plug in tester will not show if there is a ground on a 2-wire outlet, in fact, it will not fit ... | |
| tv turning off | 9/13/2008 |
| Q: I have a flatscreen TV that shits off momentarily when a lightswitch in the room is turned on or ... A: Hopefully you mean it shuts off. The only thing I can recommend is to make sure that the unit is ... | |
| 230volt to the outside condensing unit | 9/12/2008 |
| Q: I have a 208-230 volt condensing unit that is getting 248 volts to it. It keeps on frying fan ... A: I suggest you contact the manufacturer to get this info. Normally an amount of 5%(+-) is allowed. ... | |
| Puck lights and suspended ceilings | 9/11/2008 |
| Q: Why are low voltage puck lights not recommended for use as ceiling lights? I find it hard to see the ... A: I would think the restriction would have to do with the actual light output of the puck. On a ... | |
| two switches and two outlets in my living room are not working | 9/11/2008 |
| Q: two outlets and two switches in my living room are not working but there are two more outlets that ... A: If these devices are on the same breaker/fuse, then you should start at the last working outlet, and ... | |
| dryer wiring | 9/10/2008 |
| Q: We would like to move our dryer to the basement. In order to do so I will need to add some wiring. ... A: You can splice these cables, using the correct sized j-box and approved wirenuts. Also, since this ... | |
| Electrical Panel Upgrade | 9/10/2008 |
| Q: The main incoming electrical service for my house runs from the outside meter to a service breaker ... A: Normally the main breaker rating is the rating for the service, but you would also check on the ... | |
| 400amp meter socket replacement | 9/10/2008 |
| Q: any idea where i can get one? A: Milbank is a anufacturer of meter sockets, so you might want to google for it. A 400 amp socket is ... | |
| Reroute outside outlet through attic back outside | 9/9/2008 |
| Q: I have a mystery 240V outlet powered from a dedicated dual pole breaker in the electrical panel (no ... A: You can do this, with no restriction on height of the disconnect, tho there is a rule that the ... | |
| GFI Outlet Installation Issues | 9/9/2008 |
| Q: I ran a single circuit of 14-2 from the electrical panel to the bathroom in the basement. I ... A: Newer GFCI outlets will not test correctly if they are wired wrong. This may be your case, tho a ... | |
| sub panel | 9/7/2008 |
| Q: have a 100amp square d QO i need to know where to put the green grounding screw i have put in a ... A: For a Sq D panel, you have to install a seperate grounding buss (or grounding kit, see label on ... | |
| Underground wiring | 9/7/2008 |
| Q: My son just purchased a small farm in VA with a horse barn about 200 feet from the house. We want to ... A: To answer your questions in order: #1: This will depend on what you load at the bard will be. ... | |
| Two outlets that don't work. | 9/5/2008 |
| Q: I have 8 outlets on one breaker.Two do not work. Black wire is on the short hole and white wire is ... A: It sounds like you have a bad connection somewhere, most likely on the last good (working) outlet. ... | |
| Wall Mount Oven | 9/5/2008 |
| Q: I am installing a new electric wall mount oven. This oven came with wiring but no plug. It has a ... A: In the past, the electrical code allowed the neutral (white) wire to be connected to the ground ... | |
| Subpanel fill | 9/4/2008 |
| Q: I have a 125A subpanel with 20 one inch spaces. What is the sum total of the amperage rating of the ... A: There is no real answer for this question. The basis for overloading the panel would be the actual ... | |
| Breaker keeps tripping | 8/29/2008 |
| Q: After a thunderstorm and a brief power outage the circuit to my bathrooms was tripped. There is also ... A: Since the outdoor circuit is not having problems, I doubt if it is causing your current problem. ... | |
| Code Requirement | 8/28/2008 |
| Q: Does currrent NEC require URD cable, that is being installed underground, to be put into conduit? A: The NEC does not include URD as one of the wiring types approved for use. I looked at a wire ... | |
| generator | 8/28/2008 |
| Q: I installed my first automatic transfer switch in a home. I fed it off of main panel and then fed a ... A: It sounds like the controller is not sensing when the normal power is lost. Make sure you have ... | |
| Circuits using 12-3 w/ground | 8/27/2008 |
| Q: Instead of pulling 4 cables of 12-2 w/ground to an attic for 4 separate 20 amp circuits (lights and ... A: This is an acceptable method of home wiring. Make sure that the two hot wires are connected to ... | |
| Wiring in Abandoned Gas Line | 8/27/2008 |
| Q: I am installing a wood burning insert in my existing masonry fireplace. I disconnected and removed ... A: If you are just using s short piece of pipe as a sleeve through the brick, then you can do it. If ... | |
| THHN Stranded wire in PVC Conduit | 8/26/2008 |
| Q: I'm rewiring my garage and plan on using 3/4 PVC conduit with THHN stranded 12 Guage wire. I have ... A: Stranded wire is easier to work with than solid, and standard wirenuts will work to terminate them. ... | |
| electrical wires inside of cider block walls | 8/26/2008 |
| Q: My plan is to run wires for outlets vertically inside cinder block walls as they are being ... A: To answer your list, in order: Romex: NO flexible conduit: NO rigid conduit: yes PVC: yes EMT: no ... | |
| meter base to service panel | 8/25/2008 |
| Q: I am installing a new construction base and service panel. I plan to use individual wires because ... A: #4 wire is not approved for 200amps. You will need to use at least 4/0 aluminum, or 2/0 copper. ... | |
| Removal of outdoor outlet | 8/25/2008 |
| Q: We had a small second-floor deck removed which had an outlet next to it. I now want to remove that ... A: I take it you don't want the outlet anymore, is that right? If so, then you can't just bury the ... | |
| Hard wiring a freezer. | 8/23/2008 |
| Q: I want to install an outlet for my freezers in my garage directly from my breaker box. The distance ... A: You will need to fish a wire from inside of the panel(dangerous area to be around !!!) to a hole ... | |
| ground bus connections | 8/23/2008 |
| Q: I know newer panel boxes have one ground lug screw for each load. But old panel boxes had small bus ... A: The answer to your question lays in the manufacturer's instructions. That is where the number of ... | |
| sub panel installation | 8/22/2008 |
| Q: Rick. It's great to be able to ask this of a real inspector. The perfect spot in my unfinished ... A: If you can meet the 6 foot rule, this location would pass inspection. However, drians do leak over ... | |
| Aerials & Lightning | 8/22/2008 |
| Q: i know this may not be your usual aera of expertise but i am in need regarding some information on ... A: Just for your infomation, there is no way to protect from a direct lightning strike. You can try to ... | |
| circuit breakers | 8/22/2008 |
| Q: I noted a peculiar odor emanating from the panel box. Upon inspection I found a double pole 30 amp ... A: There could be a number of reasons for the breaker not opening. This overheating may have been so ... | |
| junction boxes & dropped ceilings | 8/21/2008 |
| Q: Would adding a dropped ceiling that would obscure a junction box create a code violation? Thanks in ... A: If by dropped ceiling you mean the type of ceiling grid with removable panels, then no it is not a ... | |
| phase question | 8/20/2008 |
| Q: I Have a question. i have a coffee maker where its voltage specifications is to be 220/1 phase. i ... A: You can use any 2 hots out of the panel, just like you would for a 220v load. Install the outlet to ... | |
| Tap splices | 8/14/2008 |
| Q: Rick. I'm wondering about tap splices. I've used them before to wire rooms for power, and it's ... A: Vince, I can see the ease of use for conduit systems, but for cable systems it would a non-issue, as ... | |
| Replace breaker box. | 8/14/2008 |
| Q: We have an older home that my son is living in. The electrical service is not good and the A/C was ... A: Depending on the area of the country you live in, you may not be able to do this type of work. ... | |
| 2-120 volt cords to 220 volts | 8/14/2008 |
| Q: i live on a 41 ft. motoryacht,the problem is it is too big to heat with 120 volt heaters,i would ... A: For this size of load, the only thing available would be a transformer. The minimum size of the ... | |
| Tap splices | 8/13/2008 |
| Q: Rick. I'm wondering about tap splices. I've used them before to wire rooms for power, and it's ... A: If you are talking about the type of splice shown in this picture, I can say I have not had much ... | |
| Dimming Lights | 8/13/2008 |
| Q: I live in a house built in 1980. Whenever a big motor item like the air conditioning (new unit was ... A: There are a number of things which could cause this. First off, I would check to make sure that ... | |
| Emt Size | 8/12/2008 |
| Q: Can I put 3 number 6 wire in a half inch water tight pipe? A: From your title to this post, and without knowing what type of wire you will use, I will answer your ... | |
| house fire | 8/11/2008 |
| Q: I had a small fire at my home and I'm trying to find out the source. I turned on my outside lights ... A: Every light fixture is required to be mounted on a box, whether in the ceiling or an a wall. I ... | |
| switch | 8/10/2008 |
| Q: I have 2 switches in bathroom, one for light one for fan exhaust . i bought a fan timer has 1 red 1 ... A: It looks like you may not have the correct number of wires in your switch box to do this. From your ... | |
| ceiling lights in old house | 8/10/2008 |
| Q: Recently purchased a house and got the electric upgraded from 100 to 200 amp but a couple of lights ... A: It soulds like you may have a tripped circuit. Check out all your breakers to make sure none is ... | |
| Outside AC wiring | 8/9/2008 |
| Q: Stringing AC wiring under a deck does the wire need to be encased in conduit according to code? A: I assume that you are talking about type NM-B cable, normal home wiring cable usually called Romex. ... | |
| Three-way swithches on row of can lights. | 8/9/2008 |
| Q: With power going to Switch- Fixtures(cans)- Switch, can I use a single 3 conductor(w/ground) romex ... A: You will not be able to do this with a 3-wire cable. You could do it by using a 4-wire cable ... | |
| CHANGING LIGHT SWITCHES | 6/3/2008 |
| Q: CHANGING A DOUBLE LIGHT SWITCH TO A SINGLE LIGHT SWITCH AND A RECEPTACLE. I ALSO WANT TO RUN THE ... A: You will need to find out which wire is your incoming hot (identify it black), then identify the ... | |
| CHANGING LIGHT SWITCHES | 6/2/2008 |
| Q: CHANGING A DOUBLE LIGHT SWITCH TO A SINGLE LIGHT SWITCH AND A RECEPTACLE. I ALSO WANT TO RUN THE ... A: There are a number of obstacles to this. If there is no nutral at the switch boxes (which is most ... | |
| Underground Electrical and Mechanical Services | 6/2/2008 |
| Q: Is there a distance restriction/requirement that must be kept between a new buried 600V service (in ... A: Kevin, in the NEC there is no such restriction, but in real life you do want to have some ... | |
| Irrigation pump wiring | 6/2/2008 |
| Q: Hey Rick, thanks for looking at my question..... I'm looking to wire an irrigation pump near my ... A: If your load does not exceed 30 amps, then you can use the 10/2 uf. If it was me, I would go ahead ... | |
| Service Main Disconnect | 4/2/2008 |
| Q: My manufactured home will be delivered in a couple of days. We are trying to determine our costs for ... A: Normally this disconnect is just that, a disconnect. However, if you want to add feeders to ... | |
| re wire | 4/2/2008 |
| Q: I desparately want a hanging light fixture from Ireland for my home here. They have 220 volt AC, ... A: I would think that you could adapt it to the USA, using 120v bulbs, and possibly with a little ... | |
| Wire type in lamp | 4/2/2008 |
| Q: I recently installed a new ceiling light. I noticed that the wires from the light were silver in ... A: You are probably seeing a wire that has been tinned, and will be copper underneath. The tinning ... | |
| Connected bed, but bulbs are not coming on | 4/1/2008 |
| Q: we have connected a bed inside of our home. We have the 220 going to the bed and the light on the ... A: I am thinking that this is a tanning bed, with fluorescent tubes. Is this correct? I recommend you ... | |
| Extending outlet connections in kitchen | 4/1/2008 |
| Q: 1978 house, kitchen 20amp outlets were wired by pulling cable through sofit. now I've removed the ... A: Splice boxes are ok in attics, as long as you can get to them after all the remodeling is complete. ... | |
| treadmill causes lights to pulsate | 3/19/2008 |
| Q: I have a new build that I have been in for about three months. Yesterday my wife was jogging on the ... A: It probably is no problem with the wiring. You might try plugging the treadmill into a different ... | |
| bathroom wiring | 3/19/2008 |
| Q: I am remodeling my laundry room and adjacent bathroom. I plan to install a jacuzzi style bathtub ... A: #1: The code requires a 20 amp circuit for bathroom outlets. You can run this circuit to one bath, ... | |
| Adding sub panel in home addition | 3/18/2008 |
| Q: I live in a 3 bedroom ranch home (~1300sq.ft.) in VA. I am preparing to build 2 additions. A 4th ... A: I would recommend you run at least a 60 amp circuit for this additioanl panel. for a 60 amp, ... | |
| wire for a 230 amp compressor | 3/18/2008 |
| Q: I am hoocking up a 230 watt compressor 15 amp. I will have to run the wire 70 foot. will a 8 gauge ... A: At 70', there will be minimal voltage drop, so you could use, at a minimum, #12 wire. #10 could ... | |
| installing light and switch. | 3/17/2008 |
| Q: Old house- walls of plaster. electrical has been updated. But in some rooms, looks like there was a ... A: Hey neighbor! There is a product called Wiremold that can be run from the exisiting light down to a ... | |
| Combination vent-fan/heat-lamp | 3/17/2008 |
| Q: I'm renovating a basement into a new bedroom and bath. I wanted a combination vent-fan/heat-lamp in ... A: With all the other items on this circuit, the 20 amp circuit will most likely be overloaded. You ... | |
| drill bit hit an internal wrrie | 3/16/2008 |
| Q: Installing closet shelving and my drill bit hit a wire causing an orange spark It also turned my bit ... A: Yes, you should be concerned. I recommend you open up the wall and replace that portion of wire ... | |
| hot tub wiring | 3/16/2008 |
| Q: if wires in in heater are all black how do i connect to colored ones A: Follow the wiring diagram on the unit. Probably this is only a 240v unit, so the two hot wires can ... | |
| Roughing In a bathroom Broan Model 732 (H/L/F/NL) | 3/15/2008 |
| Q: I am in the midst of roughing in the bathroom electrical and wanted to get a more expert opinion ... A: Running a seperate line for the GFCI is really about the only thing you can do at this time. You ... | |
| I want to change a dual light switch outlet | 3/15/2008 |
| Q: I have a dual light switch outlet that I want to replace. Inside the box there are two red wires, ... A: You will need to identify the wires, that is, using a volt meter, find out which is hot, which is ... | |
| Sub Panel - to small holes? | 3/14/2008 |
| Q: We are sorry, but Alex Napier wasn't able to answer yourAlex, I have a 200 Amp Square D Main Power ... A: Square D sells a lug kit for installing onto this type of buss. You will need remove one screw to ... | |
| coil cooktop | 3/14/2008 |
| Q: I'm living in Germany and I'm thinking about buying an electric coil cook-top (like the GE 36" ... A: You are correct in your assumption that it will not work at 50 hz. Check your local electrical ... | |
| Using Breakers for Switching | 3/14/2008 |
| Q: I have a tenant using the breaker panel to control their lighting. There are switches on the walls ... A: Constant flipping of breakers could cause problems down the road, but if this a breaker rated swd, ... | |
| Roughing In a bathroom Broan Model 732 (Heater/Light/Fan/Nightlight) | 3/13/2008 |
| Q: I am in the midst of roughing in the bathroom electrical and wanted to get a more expert opinion ... A: First off, because you used #12 wire, this circuit will be limited to 20 amps maximum. If the unit ... | |
| installing a second doorbell in the patio | 3/13/2008 |
| Q: I am installing a second doorbell in the patio area because in the summer when we have the air on we ... A: I can't think of a reason for it not to work. Try hooking up the new chime unit using just a couple ... | |
| diming lights | 3/12/2008 |
| Q: When I turn on a iron, small portable heater or my air compressor my lights dim and stay dim until ... A: Since you are familiar with electricity, I will try to answer you with concrete ideas. With the ... | |
| Location of sub panel | 3/11/2008 |
| Q: Is there anything in the NEC that precludes the installation of a subpanel in a wall at the top of a ... A: You are correct that the nec does not have any rule on this....but the new code (2008) does include ... | |
| adding another 220 wire in kitchen | 3/11/2008 |
| Q: i live in a condo..i am remodeling kitchen and adding a cooktop and built in oven...i have an ... A: I recommend you get your electrician to say if adding the extra load will cause problems. They will ... | |
| running two 220 appliances off one line. | 3/10/2008 |
| Q: Hey Rick, I'm remodeling my kitchen and want to remove my existing stovetop and range and put in an ... A: Normally the manufactuer requires seperate circuits for these types of equipment. I would check the ... | |
| add ons | 3/9/2008 |
| Q: My objective is to supply a 125amp breaker panel with a 40amp service to my shed. This will be used ... A: Most of the twin breakers will provide, when installed, 2 circuits from the same phase, not 2 ... | |
| Finishing a basement | 3/9/2008 |
| Q: We built a home and it has an unfinished basement. I plan on doing most of the wiring myself. I ... A: It sounds ok, as far as it goes. However, you might want to talk to the local inspector before ... | |
| Sealing around wire penetrations, etc. | 3/7/2008 |
| Q: I would like to seal up the penetration where my service entrance cable runs from my meter to my ... A: There are materials on the market made for this, and are usually labeled as fire stops. If you just ... | |
| Power surges on a 2 yr old home | 3/6/2008 |
| Q: I have a homeowner stating that the wiring in his home is bad, because he had a surge in his home 6 ... A: If there was indeed a lightning strike close enough to damage something like the water heater, it ... | |
| service entrance | 3/6/2008 |
| Q: I am building a garage with living space above. I want to use a 100 amp panel. Can I connect this to ... A: I recommend that you do not connect to the input side of the main, which is a code violtation. ... | |
| Two rooms, one light circuit | 3/5/2008 |
| Q: I want to run one circuit to light two rooms. I want it to enter the first room from the breaker ... A: You should be able to do this, using a 3-wire cable instead of the normal 2-wire cable. Check ... | |
| ceiling fans | 3/5/2008 |
| Q: There are 4 wires coming from the ceiling blue, white, red and black, my question is where the does ... A: You will need to find out which wires are controlled by which switches. I am guessing, but I think ... | |
| Max load and related | 3/4/2008 |
| Q: I am currently doing a 2 car garage conversion into living space. I am trying to do things to code, ... A: If the existing feed wire (8-3 AL) has 3 insulated wires and an uninsulated wire, this can be used ... | |
| wiring near direct vent fireplace | 3/4/2008 |
| Q: We are installing a Direct vent fireplace with a TV above. 12 gauge wiring to TV, and other 12 ... A: Follow manufacturer's instruction on this clearance. I would think 2 to 3" would be ok. Keep the ... | |
| GFI circuit | 3/3/2008 |
| Q: I recently completed a kitchen remodel in a 30 year old condo. One series of counter plugs protected ... A: If you feel like it, open up the panel and find the breaker that is feeding this circuit. You ... | |
| Changing kitchen switch | 3/2/2008 |
| Q: I have a switch in the kitchen with a pilot light. The switch controls the garbage disposal. The ... A: I would not advise adding a receptacle to this circuit. You may overload it by running some other ... | |
| Doorbell rewire, extra wires | 3/2/2008 |
| Q: After reading answers to other non-working doorbell problems, I attempted step one: remove button ... A: If the unit was working before, then the wires had to have been good. If you remove any wires, mark ... | |
| diming lights | 3/2/2008 |
| Q: When I turn on a iron, small portable heater or my air compressor my lights dim and stay dim until ... A: Kevin, It could be any number of things. I would recommend you hire an electrician to come in to ... | |
| junction box | 3/1/2008 |
| Q: I have a new construction home and in the kitchen I have florescent lighting when I tried to replace ... A: This is normal, and fairly easily repaired. Install a plastic fixture box which will require you to ... | |
| pull chain lighting | 3/1/2008 |
| Q: Hi Rick - We are redoing my daughters room upstairs - right now she has 3 Pull chainsn light fixturs ... A: Most track lights come with a junction box cover that should easily convert to a pull switch. I'm ... | |
| Wiring/Circuit issue.... | 2/29/2008 |
| Q: We have a new home (5yrs old) with 3 outdoor recessed porch lights, two outside garage lights, and ... A: You did not say if the recessed lamps were burned out or not. Were they? If so, what happend after ... | |
| Motion light and flood light | 2/29/2008 |
| Q: I just purchased a motion detector light and I have a flood light on the other end of the house. ... A: You probably will not be able to do this, unless there is a seperate line from the motion sensor box ... | |
| Wiring a finished basement | 2/28/2008 |
| Q: Rick, Thanks in advance for your help. I'm finishing my basement, including a bathroom. I have a ... A: You are required to run a 20amp circuit to the bathroom. You can supply all the items you list from ... | |
| Installing a chandelier | 2/27/2008 |
| Q: I'm in the process of installing a new chandelier in my 1946 home. I recently removed a ceiling ... A: I could not answer if there is a ground wire, but I suspect that either there is no ground or the ... | |
| Open Ground Situation | 2/27/2008 |
| Q: I am trying to track an open ground situation as found with a plug in tester ( one red light , two ... A: A visual inspection would be required to see if the service is grounded. Can you see any bare ... | |
| Wiring in home | 2/26/2008 |
| Q: I live in a rental house. This property is thirty or more years old. One of the bedrooms has had ... A: It does sound like you have some major electrical problems. Using plug-in heaters is just adding to ... | |
| Dryer installation | 2/25/2008 |
| Q: I recently purchased a 220 dryer, but my outlet is designed for 110. I am a renter, so modifying my ... A: The dryer will not work on 110volts, if it was designed for 220v. Have a talk to your landloard, ... | |
| Wire size , Jacuzzi | 2/24/2008 |
| Q: Mr. Miell, I am having a house remodeled and one of the electricians for part of the work has ... A: You can never run a smaller wire from a larger one. If the wire is #12, then the breaker will be a ... | |
| Jetted Tub GFI Wiring | 2/23/2008 |
| Q: Rick- I have a tile enclosed jetted tub that tripped the GFI outlet it was plugged into. This ... A: I have seen the power run to a gfci switch located outside of the tube area, then run back to the ... | |
| Moving Dryer recepticle | 2/22/2008 |
| Q: I am moving a dryer 100 ft further away from my main box. It presently has #10/3 with ground. My ... A: I went to guru in the electrical field, Mike Holt at www.mikeholt.com. On his main site is a link ... | |
| 220v 120v wiring problem | 2/22/2008 |
| Q: I have a 2 pole 20a BREAKER. 12/3awg. Red & Black are connected to the breaker, White(neutral ) is ... A: When you connected a load to the top outlet, without having the neutral connected in the panel, the ... | |
| single pole to 3 way | 2/21/2008 |
| Q: I currently have a single pole switch that controls 1 light in a hallway. We're finishing our ... A: I would recommend you visit www.danswiringpage.com for some great diagrams on 3-way switch wiring. ... | |
| Can Euro (Germany)220V be used with US 220 V? | 2/21/2008 |
| Q: Miell, I am moving back to the States in a few months from Germany. I have a steam cleaner ... A: I would suggest you find out from the manufacturer of the cleaner to see if they recommend powering ... | |
| Amperage required | 2/21/2008 |
| Q: I have a 1960 house that I am trying to sell. I is a three bedroom, two bath house. It has 100 amp ... A: Unless you have an electric dryer, an electric range, and a electric water heater, then 100 amp ... | |
| Outlet controlled by a switch | 2/20/2008 |
| Q: My tester showed open neutral wire in the outlet. When I opened it up I saw two pair of wires and a ... A: Raajah, you cannot connect to the ground. That would be a code violation. Are you sure that you ... | |
| upgrade | 2/20/2008 |
| Q: my lights flicker when big appliances come on and i only have a 125 amp service can i change out ... A: The 2 things you write about have nothing to do with each other. If your lights are blinking, try ... | |
| 120V AC wiring used in Central Vacuum systems | 2/19/2008 |
| Q: I live in Vancouver Canada in a 3 yr old home and our Central Vac (Beam, I believe) was ... A: Tsk, Tsk, Mikey. I hope you have learned your lesson!!! (I sound just like my Mom, LOL) I don't ... | |
| 220v 120v wiring problem | 2/19/2008 |
| Q: I have a 2 pole 20a BREAKER. 12/3awg. Red & Black are connected to the breaker, White(neutral ) is ... A: I don't have a clue why you would be getting the reading you are, unless the white wire is laying ... | |
| Add a length in middle of 10/3 30A | 2/19/2008 |
| Q: I am in the middle of a kitchen remodel and need to reroute the 10/3 (3 wires PLUS bare ground) wire ... A: Yes, this will be ok. Use the correct sized wirenuts, and make sure the jboxes are covered with ... | |
| 70 volts to overhead light with wall switch off | 2/18/2008 |
| Q: Older home (60's) with 2 wire system.In one room there is an overhead light being replaced. Testing ... A: You are probably just reading some voltage on the neutral casued by a downstream load, such as a ... | |
| Outlet controlled by a switch | 2/18/2008 |
| Q: My tester showed open neutral wire in the outlet. When I opened it up I saw two pair of wires and a ... A: Using a volt meter, identify what wire is hot, and what wire is the neutral. Next identify which ... | |
| GFCI protection of jacuzzi | 2/17/2008 |
| Q: I am currently selling my house and the question came up from the inspector if the jacuzzi tub was ... A: You could trip the gfci by pressing the test button, and if the tub does not work, then it is ... | |
| connecting generator to transfer switch | 2/17/2008 |
| Q: I have a generator (5000 running watts, 6250 surge) with a 120/240 twist lock 20amp outlet that I ... A: You will need to be concerned about your loads, and it is fairly hard to idenitfy which breaker ... | |
| 3 way swithch | 2/17/2008 |
| Q: My two three way switches for 1 light work only in the down position. What have I done wrong? Thanks A: Wayne, did you replace the switches? If so, you may have installed the wires incorrectly. Check ... | |
| gfci | 2/16/2008 |
| Q: I have a House with a 2 pole 20 amp gfci connected to a whirlpool tub w/heater ( trippng ). they ... A: It could meet code, if it is installed according to manufacturer's instructions. Without looking at ... | |
| On Demand Water Heater | 2/15/2008 |
| Q: I am going to install a PowerStar AE125 Electric Tankless Water Heater. I currently have a standard ... A: You will need to look at the installation instructions for this info. After getting the ratings ... | |
| new 200a - old 100a service panel | 2/14/2008 |
| Q: I'd like to get a Master's advice as it relates to Code. I am a retired (USCG) electronics ... A: Chuck. First off we need to get some wording straight. A main lug panel is a panel without a main ... | |
| Sparks coming from a wall outlet | 2/14/2008 |
| Q: I just noticed that there are sparks coming from one of the electrical wall outlets in my office. I ... A: It sounds like you may have some loose wires in the box. Turn the breaker off that feeds this ... | |
| gfi receptacle quit working | 2/14/2008 |
| Q: i replaced a 'razor only' receptacle in my bathroom with a gfi... it worked great for about 3 months ... A: From your descreiption, it sounds like your outlet is only powered when the switch is on. Is this ... | |
| new 200a - old 100a service panel | 2/13/2008 |
| Q: I'd like to get a Master's advice as it relates to Code. I am a retired (USCG) electronics ... A: You could run from a 100amp breaker in your 200 amp breaker box and then feed into a main-lug panel, ... | |
| Drop In Stove & Wall Oven | 2/13/2008 |
| Q: I am remodeling an older home and I am having an island built with a drop-in stove and a "wall" oven ... A: Melody You will need to look at the manufacturer's instuction to see if they require a seperate ... | |
| 4 wire plug | 2/13/2008 |
| Q: I have a generator with a 4 wire, twist lock 220 volt recepticle and I want to wire a plug for it. ... A: Alan, on the face of the receptacle you will find certain numbers which will be needed in order to ... | |
| help | 2/12/2008 |
| Q: I was running a space heater in my room, and the power went out only in my room. I went and checked ... A: It sounds like you may have lost a neutral connection somewhere, either in a device box or a light ... | |
| Telephone Wiring | 2/12/2008 |
| Q: I have 104 year old house and the two large wires for phone have no ground wire and comes straight ... A: I would recommend you contact the local phone company for this answer. Normally the outside wires ... | |
| Using strandedcwire to connect to a duplex receptacle | 2/12/2008 |
| Q: Can I use stranded wire instead of solid to either the screws or inserted in the back of the ... A: The pun in connectors are for solid wire only. You can use crimp on connectors, or you canstrip ... | |
| electrical | 2/11/2008 |
| Q: i have two 14-2 wires going into a box with a 14-3 wire joining them. They go to a 3-way light ... A: I would suggest you visit www.danswiringpage.com for some great diagrams on this type of wiring. He ... | |
| Height to fish wire through in a basement | 2/10/2008 |
| Q: Rick, I am finishing a basement and am wondering as to how high the wire should be to fish through ... A: When I was wiring, I would place my drill at hip level, which would allow me to apply pressure to ... | |
| dishwasher interupter switch | 2/10/2008 |
| Q: Brown county Ohio. Do you need a wall interrupter switch for a dish washer or can you hard wire it ... A: You will need to check local codes to find this answer. The NEC requires that if a unit is ... | |
| 60 Cycle Hum | 2/9/2008 |
| Q: At least that's what I think it is! My 50 " plasma has slow scrolling lines when receiving media ... A: My daughter and son-in-law have this same problem. I suspect that it has to do with the grounding ... | |
| Running wires on a ferring wall | 2/9/2008 |
| Q: I'm in the process of turning an existing double brick-walled addition into a workshop/laundry ... A: John, I meant that you would have just one cable running into the size of box mentioned. If you ... | |
| 1 outlet / 2 switches | 2/9/2008 |
| Q: I need to wire 1 outlet and 2 switches (stacked switch) in a double box. So, I have 4 sets of wires ... A: I can't go back and look at my previous answers easily, so I will try here. You will need to tie ... | |
| low voltage | 2/8/2008 |
| Q: older house with some cloth insulated wires. light fixture stopped working. 3 wires entering ... A: This is an abnormal reading, so there may be a loose wire ahead of this light, the breaker may have ... | |
| How to wire a gfci switch outlet combo | 2/8/2008 |
| Q: I am tring to replace a sandard switch with a gfci combo. I have black white and ground comming in ... A: Normally the gfci outlet is wired to provide protection to downstream outlets, and a switched gfci ... | |
| Running wires on a ferring wall | 2/8/2008 |
| Q: I'm in the process of turning an existing double brick-walled addition into a workshop/laundry ... A: The code allows the use of this type of building material, with the provision that the cable be ... | |
| New subpanel in outbuilding | 2/7/2008 |
| Q: I've read many questions here relating to my situation, but still have questions. Since this ... A: For the most part, it sounds like a good plan. You can stable cable on the underside of the floor ... | |
| high power bills | 2/5/2008 |
| Q: Our power bills are higher than anyone around us. I've been told it be caused by a dead short ... A: A dead short should cause the breaker to trip, so I don't think that is your problem. There are ... | |
| electric wiring in a mobile home | 2/5/2008 |
| Q: How long is electric wiring good for in a 1995 mobile home. When I plugged in an electic heater, ... A: You need to have a professional in to check out your electrical system, starting with the outlet ... | |
| Switches | 2/4/2008 |
| Q: I was replacing several single pole and several 3 way switches in my dining room and entry way. The ... A: Kelly, If the feed comes to say the first box, then is spliced there using wire nuts amd continues ... | |
| Switches | 2/2/2008 |
| Q: I was replacing several single pole and several 3 way switches in my dining room and entry way. The ... A: I would think that you somehow created a loose wire in one of the switch boxes. With power off, ... | |
| ceiling lights | 2/2/2008 |
| Q: My basement ceiling is open; when I renovated the kitchen upstairs, the electrician ran new wire in ... A: I would have to guess that perhaps a GFCI outlet was installed somewhere ahead of the non-working ... | |
| amps average | 2/2/2008 |
| Q: How many amps would a typical 1970's 3bdrm, 1 bath, kitchen and family room home have? K A: This would depend on what version of the NEC, if any, was enforced at the time this home was built. ... | |
| Attic Wiring | 2/1/2008 |
| Q: Plan on installing new 12/2 circuit to control multiple powered attic fans. Considering installing ... A: Anytime the cable could be damaged, you need to protect it. You can protect by not running it in ... | |
| Wiring questions | 2/1/2008 |
| Q: How many lights/fixtures/outlets can I put on a 15 or 20 amp breaker safely? A: The normal thought is around 10 openings on a 15 amp circuit, and 13 on a 20 amp circuit. This is ... | |
| outlet | 1/31/2008 |
| Q: power is out on two outlets and the ceiling light in one of my rooms but serval outlets in the work ... A: This could be caused by a tripped GFCI outlet or breaker, or a tripped AFCI breaker. Look for an ... | |
| 'Leak' in wiring? | 1/30/2008 |
| Q: I am replacing a ceiling light. I am using a simple Sears digital multimeter to check the ... A: All you are reading is the continuity between the wires. There might be something plugged into this ... | |
| Routing romex above ceiling rafters-New construction | 1/30/2008 |
| Q: I have a new 36 x 24' Shop that i am performing the wiring on myself. Our County in Oregon allows us ... A: Michael, I would not think that it would be too bad of a deal to install them on the upper portions ... | |
| Changing a light fixture | 1/29/2008 |
| Q: I am trying to change an old light fixture in my house (Probably from the early 40's). The problem ... A: the only true way to find the hot wire would be to use a voltmeter. You can buy a cheap voltage ... | |
| Routing romex above ceiling rafters-New construction | 1/29/2008 |
| Q: I have a new 36 x 24' Shop that i am performing the wiring on myself. Our County in Oregon allows us ... A: If the rafters are less than 4 1/2' apart (normally 16" on center), you can lay the cable on the ... | |
| main panel | 1/29/2008 |
| Q: I'm replacing my Main panel & would like to leave the wiring from the meter to the main panel, it ... A: Mike, thanks for the picture. If the insulation is bad enough to need taping or other protection, I ... | |
| bonding electic panel | 1/28/2008 |
| Q: Inspector said that my electric panel needed to be bonded. How do I do that. My Skills are great ... A: Normally, for a panel to bonded it would have the bonding strap or link or screw installed where ... | |
| Motion Switches | 1/28/2008 |
| Q: I want to have a bathroom vent fan come on when someone enter the bathroom and then switch off if it ... A: I would have thought that the sensor would work on the fan as well as the light. Are you sure that ... | |
| Convert 220v to 110volt outlet. | 1/27/2008 |
| Q: I have a 220v outlet that was connected to a baseboard heater. I have removed the heater and now ... A: I would refer you to another site, where the electrician there will show you exactly how to do this. ... | |
| dimming lights | 1/27/2008 |
| Q: i plug my vacuum in my master bedroom and notice that my lights dim. i think it has something to do ... A: I recommend you hire an electrician to come in to check out your electrical system. You may just ... | |
| main panel | 1/27/2008 |
| Q: I'm replacing my Main panel & would like to leave the wiring from the meter to the main panel, it ... A: Why do you need to run these wires thru conduit? I'm not sure if you want to protect the wires by ... | |
| Sub panel ground vs neutral | 1/26/2008 |
| Q: I read an answer that "Master Bob" wrote regarding installation of a sub panel in a pole barn ... A: The answer is in both the electrical code and electrical theory. The code does not allow this, ... | |
| recessed lighting | 1/26/2008 |
| Q: I have installed IC recessed lighting in my living room.I am having trouble with installing the trim ... A: If the trim is not flush, then perhaps the can needs to be raised some. Look at the installation ... | |
| electrical | 1/26/2008 |
| Q: I am just about done with a total kitchen and bathroom remodel. Electician put in ceiling fan and a ... A: Are you sure he did not prewire for the light? Sometimes they will run a cable from a switch and ... | |
| blown outlets and switches | 1/25/2008 |
| Q: I have an older home and we blew a breaker and after resting outlet and wall switches do not work.We ... A: I would think you would need to look at all the wiring, including that visible in the attic and in ... | |
| Recessed can ? | 1/25/2008 |
| Q: I have a light switch that controls a fan and on the same circuit I have installed two recessed cans ... A: Chris, Unless you pull an additional wire from the switch box to the fan or lights, you won't be ... | |
| Lighting Issues | 1/24/2008 |
| Q: I bought a set of lights for the living room and began the installation when I realized that the ... A: Unless it was manufactured for use with an outlet, then you won't be able to use this fixture. You ... | |
| grounding | 1/24/2008 |
| Q: I have a main disconnect at my house located in the meter can. From this disconnect I want to ... A: I'm a little concerned about your plans. You say you have a main disconnect, but from reading ... | |
| low voltage lights | 1/23/2008 |
| Q: MY SONS BATHROOM LIGHTS WERE WORKING BUT NOW, WHEN HE SWITCHES THEM ON ONE OF THEM ONLY STAY ON FOR ... A: I would like to point out something to you. When you type with all capitals, it looks like you are ... | |
| creating subpanel for accessory building | 1/23/2008 |
| Q: I have a shed that previously had a an air conditioning unit on the roof with power coming from a ... A: The 30 amp breaker will provide just that, 30 amps. You might be able to use this for the supply to ... | |
| Circuit tripping in cold weather | 1/22/2008 |
| Q: I've recently added electrical service to the unattached garage on my property. A certified ... A: The lubrication of the machine must be causing the problem, due to the cold. With the lube cold, ... | |
| finding documentation | 1/22/2008 |
| Q: I'm taking my local electrical supplier to small claims court and need the name of an "electricity ... A: I don't know of any book, but you should be able to find info at the various electrical forums on ... | |
| Update service after new roof | 1/21/2008 |
| Q: We had our roof/attic raised and the contractor removed the electrical service and supported it with ... A: You should check with the local inspector to find out for sure. If the pipe did not go through the ... | |
| wiring a triple gang box | 1/21/2008 |
| Q: I'm converting a porch to an interior room. I have snaked 12/2 romex wire from the breaker panel to ... A: First off, since you downsized some of the cable in this circuit, you will need to protect it with a ... | |
| Outdoor Sub Panel for SPA | 1/20/2008 |
| Q: I am planning the installation of an outdoor sub panel for a SPA. I will use 1" PVC for the 30' run ... A: It sounds like you need a strucure to mount the panel on, is this correct? If so, you can sink a 4 ... | |
| Routing around LAM | 1/20/2008 |
| Q: I am finishing my basement and need to route my electrical wiring around a laminate beam. If I go ... A: If you will be installing sheetrock around the beam and duct work or plumbing, you can run the ... | |
| service entrance wires | 1/20/2008 |
| Q: I am considering upgrading my electrical service from 100Amp to 125Amp. The service entrance lines ... A: Myron. I understand your concerns about the cost of underground wiring. Voltage drop is of no ... | |
| Additional Receptacal (outlet) | 1/19/2008 |
| Q: I need to install an additional receptacle behind plasma TV. There is an existing outlet on the ... A: There are a couple of ways to do this. You can install surface mounted raceway (called wiremold) ... | |
| ceiling fan install. | 1/19/2008 |
| Q: i have a ceiling fan i want to take from one room to another, the room with the ceiling fan has 2 ... A: It sounds like your new location is wired for just switching the light on/off. In order for the ... | |
| touch control lamp | 1/19/2008 |
| Q: I have a touch control lamp. It fell about 1 foot to the ground, and now the touch control does not ... A: K, you might check to see if the control unit dislodged from the side of the base when it fell. ... | |
| electrical | 1/18/2008 |
| Q: finishing my basement, how many outlets can be hooked up to 20 amp breaker? how many can lights on ... A: If you go strickly by code, you can have an unlimited number of outlets (which includes receptacles ... | |
| service entrance wires | 1/18/2008 |
| Q: I am considering upgrading my electrical service from 100Amp to 125Amp. The service entrance lines ... A: Unless you install new service conductors, you will not be able to upgrade to 125amps. I recommend ... | |
| Sub Panel For Garage | 1/17/2008 |
| Q: I just had a standalone garage built and I am going to install a 60 amp sub panel to feed outlets ... A: If your area is under the new, 2008 NEC, then you will be required to use the 4 wire cable, which ... | |
| Bathroom GFI receptacles missing | 1/17/2008 |
| Q: We have a nice house built in 2002, so I'm assuming that it had to pass code, but our master bath ... A: You state that you have switches labeled GFCI in the breaker box. Are these switches a regular ... | |
| A problem with no answers yet | 1/15/2008 |
| Q: I have a grounded 20 Amp circuit that I branched off out of a junction box with wiring to two ... A: Rick, If you are using the ground wire in the cable to connect to the outlet, then no matter if the ... | |
| fuse panel distance | 1/15/2008 |
| Q: I am in the process of building my own home. This is not my profession but I want to do as much as ... A: There are areas of the US that restrict the length of the conductor, and that length can vary. I ... | |
| new construction stackable dryer outlet location | 1/15/2008 |
| Q: I am wiring my home that is under construction. Plans call for a stackable washer/dryer closet, but ... A: I have seen stackables wired using only a 4-wire 240v cord, but it could be that you need to supply ... | |
| gutter size | 1/14/2008 |
| Q: What size gutter do I need for 4ea 500 mcm THHW and 4ea 250 mcm THHW thank's. A: Richard, for this problem, you have to look at the codebook, Article 366. It says that the ... | |
| pool/hot tub subpanel | 1/14/2008 |
| Q: We are adding a pool and hot tub approx 120' from our main 400amp panel. An electrician suggested we ... A: You asked: "Is the electrician correct about the wire size?" 2/0 aluminum will sufice for this ... | |
| subpanel and conduit question | 1/13/2008 |
| Q: I am planning to install a subpanel in a detached garage. 200a main panel to a 100a sub panel. I am ... A: I'm not sure what you mean by above ground. If you mean laying on the surface of the ground, then ... | |
| 3 way motion sensor switch | 1/13/2008 |
| Q: I have a light outside my girls room that is a 3way and controls the hall lighting. I want to ... A: I suggest you wire the sensor according to the diagram included with the sensor. I would not want ... | |
| Aluminum vs copper | 1/13/2008 |
| Q: The electrician has used all aluminum wiring in the completion of an addition at our cottage. We ... A: Aluminum wiring is still allowed by the electrical code. You can verify that the devices installed ... | |
| A problem with no answers yet | 1/12/2008 |
| Q: I have a grounded 20 Amp circuit that I branched off out of a junction box with wiring to two ... A: All indications lead back to the junction box connections. You indicate 2 different problems, one: ... | |
| neg and positive wires?? | 1/11/2008 |
| Q: I took a pigtail off of an Insinkerator garbage disposal unit and didn't mark the white or black ... A: If you are looking at the plug, the wire attached to the larger prong will be the neutral. ... | |
| conduits | 1/11/2008 |
| Q: I have some experience with doing electrical installation in Europe, but am just starting out with ... A: The National Electric Code is what you need to get to find rules for electrical installations. As ... | |
| Cooktop Wiring via Cord and Plug | 1/10/2008 |
| Q: I have a question almost identical to one asked by another reader. However, the answer given really ... A: Skip, your points are well taken. However, if the manufacturer of the cooktop does not allow, in ... | |
| poping sound in wiring | 1/8/2008 |
| Q: my mother moved into an apt complex built in 1980. her wiring system occassionally makes a loud ... A: It could not hurt to have an electrician come in to check the wiring system. I have never heard an ... | |
| Backfed home generators | 1/8/2008 |
| Q: Advertisement You are here: Experts > Home/Garden > Home Improvement/Repair > ... A: Kirk, see http://www.powerlineman.com/lforum/archive/index.php/t-711.html and ... | |
| outbuilding gronding | 1/8/2008 |
| Q: Greetings Rick, My neighbor has a garage that is separate, by about 100 feet, from his house. This ... A: A grounding electrode is required to be installed in the outbuilding. If the wiring between the two ... | |
| GFCI in Kitchen | 1/7/2008 |
| Q: Is there such a thing as a GFCI for a kitchen where you have the top outlet wired to the Black ... A: There is no such 220v rule. What you may be thinking of is that the kitchen is required to have 2 ... | |
| distance of light switch from tub or shower | 1/6/2008 |
| Q: Rick, Have installed a new jetted tub and need to do some rewiring. Need to install a double ... A: Switches can not be installed in the wet locations of tubs, unless approved for such. I would keep ... | |
| Electric baseboard heat | 1/6/2008 |
| Q: My Dad uses 40 yr. old electric baseboards with individual room controls for the winter only in his ... A: If I understand your problem, the heaters work for a few minutes, then quit working. If this is the ... | |
| Arc shields | 1/6/2008 |
| Q: What is meant by adding arc shields to the back of outlets that are in wood base boards in a newly ... A: Arc shields are either metal or plastic sid pieces that are installed flush with the front of the ... | |
| new home panel code | 1/5/2008 |
| Q: I am buying a home in Texas and I am wondering if there is code here stating that a certain number ... A: The NEC does contain a statement that the installation must allow for future expansion, but what ... | |
| generator blew out ballasts | 1/4/2008 |
| Q: I hooked up my welder generator 3000 watt 220 volt to a plug that I had in the garage for an ... A: What you did was supplied power without a neutral. You may have supplied power thru the neutral of ... | |
| Spotlights | 1/4/2008 |
| Q: I have a lightfitting in bathroon and kitchen with 3 spotlights. In kitchen only one of bulbs work ... A: If these are recessed light fixtures, they normally have a thermal device built into them that will ... | |
| three-way sockets | 1/3/2008 |
| Q: Is there any reason I should not use a one-way bulb in a three-way socket? I want to install a ... A: I am assumming that this is on a table or floor lamp. You can use the "one-way" lamp, but when you ... | |
| What is trip circuit? | 1/3/2008 |
| Q: I need a comphrehensive details explanation on the subject matter. A: Benard, I don't think I can give you the answer you request. I'm not familiar with the phrase "trip ... | |
| portable gfci outlets | 1/2/2008 |
| Q: We recently moved into a house that was built in 1965. The recepticles are not gfci. We want to ... A: Replacing the outlets with GFCI type is not a hard job, and all instructions are included with the ... | |
| Ceiling fan light problem | 7/19/2007 |
| Q: I have a ceiling fan (in a house I just moved into)with light kit on a single switch. The light ... A: I suspect that you may have a loose neutral wire. Using a voltmeter, check for voltage between the ... | |
| hi | 7/19/2007 |
| Q: lately i ahve heard of someone that out of deseperation is hiring an electrician to install ... A: Yom, I again want to stress the importance of getting electrical work done legally. Sure someone ... | |
| hi | 7/18/2007 |
| Q: lately i ahve heard of someone that out of deseperation is hiring an electrician to install ... A: There are laws that forbid anyone doing illegal electrical work. The person doing the work is not ... | |
| Installing a main in a sub panel? | 7/18/2007 |
| Q: I have recently installed a 6 space sub panel in my garage. i ran the power from a double pole 30 ... A: The main in the subpanel will be another 30amp, 2pole breaker, installed just like your branch ... | |
| heat resistance ratings for wiring | 7/17/2007 |
| Q: I just bought a new light fixture for my home and when I went to install it I noticed a warning that ... A: Chances are that your wire is rated for only 60 degrees. What you need to do is rip out all of your ... | |
| Wiring a dedicated 6-20R receptacle. | 7/16/2007 |
| Q: Greetings Rick - I am installing a single 6-20R receptacle for a single-phase 220V machine in my ... A: It sounds like you did everything correct, with the exception of allowing one of the phases (hots) ... | |
| Gas Stove install | 7/16/2007 |
| Q: In Ottawa, Ontario, Canada it is code to put 20 amp outlets in the kitchen. I was wondering if it ... A: I'm sorry, but I can't supply an answer based on the CEC. Under the NEC, you are required to supply ... | |
| 7-8 volts in ground conductor | 7/15/2007 |
| Q: I ran some ceiling lights (one is controlled by a two-way switch (the kind you use in the stairway), ... A: It could be either of those, or it could be just induction. That small of voltage reading should ... | |
| Spa Conduit question | 7/15/2007 |
| Q: I think I know the answer but I want to double check with you. I am running new 6-3+10 bare ground ... A: The size of wire listed is not allowed in a 3/4" conduit. For the number of #6 you list, you are ... | |
| size of neutral wire | 7/14/2007 |
| Q: I am using two seperate #12 hot legs and a common neutral to make two 110 volt circuits for an ... A: As long as the 2 circuits are on opposite phases, then you can do this. Also, if the loads will be ... | |
| wiring for a room in a garage | 7/14/2007 |
| Q: a couple friends and myself have gotten a house that was built in 1943. I discovered there is no ... A: I think that you should have a talk with your local inspector, to see if he can suggest some ... | |
| does the use of junction boxes enable clean layouts and do inspectors like or dislike their use? | 7/14/2007 |
| Q: we have built a 1000 sq.ft. addition and are ready to wire it. We built and wired the original ... A: I know most inspectors don't have a preferrence on jboxes, but electricians don't like them. Having ... | |
| 2 lights, 1 power source, big problem | 7/13/2007 |
| Q: I'm trying to finish my basement, and I have one issue that I can't seem to get around. I have 2 ... A: There are a couple of ways of doing this. The easiest way, which will limit the amount of wiring, ... | |
| AC question | 7/13/2007 |
| Q: Hope you can help me. I have a portable 8000 btu AC in my office in my basement. It is supposed to ... A: I would think it is safe, but the use for the vent is two-fold. Besides getting rid of the excess ... | |
| adding temporary sub-panel | 7/13/2007 |
| Q: Sir, I am adding a 100 amp sub-panel for temporary power. I am using aluminum wire #2/0. I know I ... A: If the subpanel is in (or on) the same building as the main panel, then you will need 4 wires, and ... | |
| Hot tub wiring | 7/12/2007 |
| Q: I have had two electricians take a look at what I need. I have the main breaker box in the garage ... A: You can replace your normal breakers with thin breakers, allowing you to have 2 breakers in the ... | |
| sub-panel | 7/12/2007 |
| Q: i have a 20 space panel that is filled. i now need 2 more spaces for an air conditioner unit. ... A: You can replace a few of your existing breakers with thin breakers, allowing you to have 2 breakers ... | |
| Wiring for Single Wall oven | 7/12/2007 |
| Q: I would like to install a single wall oven but there is not currently a 220v power source in my ... A: This is not a viable solution. You need to have a seperate 30 amp circuit just for the range. You ... | |
| Recessed lighting lamps failing | 7/11/2007 |
| Q: In my daylight basement I have 9 recessed Juno cans that are all wired on the same 3-way switches. ... A: I doubt that the 3-ways are the cause of the problems. Are you sure the lamps are failing, or do ... | |
| Subpanel/voltage drop calcs | 7/11/2007 |
| Q: My question is, should voltage drop calculations be done before wire is installed???? I am having ... A: You are correct to question this. The electrician needs to stand by his bid. A statement that he ... | |
| Inside ouside wiring for above ground pool | 7/11/2007 |
| Q: I am embarking on installation of electric to my 24' above ground pool. There are a couple of things ... A: It sounds like you have a pretty good plan. Normally you need to seperate different utilities by at ... | |
| Electric panel location on outside of home? | 7/10/2007 |
| Q: I am moving to a new area in Washington State and have started looking for a new home. I found one ... A: For most exterior mounted panels, the enclosure is made to keep moisure from entering the box from ... | |
| wiring | 7/9/2007 |
| Q: How do I convert a hardwire wall sconce to a plug in unit? I'd like to do it myself so need in depth ... A: If you are asking how to add a plug to the fixture which will allow you to plug it into an outlet, I ... | |
| wiring a 220 light fixture | 7/9/2007 |
| Q: I am trying to rewire a 220 light bulb fixture in a well house that only has 220. The current ... A: You will need to use a voltmeter to verify that you have 240v coming out of the 2 breakers, when ... | |
| Spa Install | 7/8/2007 |
| Q: i am wiring my spa panel from midwest for my spa. The breaker in the panel trips when i enable it. ... A: If there is no load hooked up, then the breaker should not trip. However, it is a gfci unit, so it ... | |
| white wire in the breaker panel "hot"? | 7/8/2007 |
| Q: I was adding a breaker into the panel in my house. While doing this, I (stupidly) put the black ... A: You probably had some load connected to the circuit that you energized, which would "energize" the ... | |
| Hardwire to an outlet | 7/7/2007 |
| Q: I am adding a built in microwave in the kitchen. The kitchen had a hood that was hardwired. Is it ... A: This is a fairly easy job, however I don't have a link that shows how to do it. Ask for some ... | |
| Electric Ceiling Fan Hookup | 7/7/2007 |
| Q: Hooking up an electric ceiling fan to a 3 way switch. The fan will only work with the remote ... A: The red wire is probably your switched wire. If you want the wall switch to control the fan only, ... | |
| wiring question | 7/6/2007 |
| Q: I am trying to replace a a wired smoke alarm. This is 1975 construction. There are 2 white ... A: You will have to measure the wires to see which is your power, etc. If you look closely at the ... | |
| iebc question | 7/6/2007 |
| Q: My home is in N.O. I did the rewiring with a friend from Dallas licensed electrician. We took ... A: I can only answer for the National Electrical Code (NEC). For the gfci, if the light circuit is a ... | |
| adding a sauna structure | 7/6/2007 |
| Q: "I am planning to build a small structure containing a sauna and changing room.It will be located ... A: I recommend that you run a 60amp circuit (#6 wire) to a small breaker panel at the structure. From ... | |
| bathroom electric box | 7/4/2007 |
| Q: I moved into an old apartment and found that there were no outlets in the bathroom - just a covered ... A: I too am concerned. You may have a feed that is feeding 240volts instead of 120volts. I suggest ... | |
| Cooper piping corroding externally with green colored stuff | 7/4/2007 |
| Q: Recently I have noticed a green colored stuff in my pets water bowls and was thinking it was coming ... A: The green corrosion is something that happens to copper. I suggest you call in a licensed plumber ... | |
| Planning for the future | 7/3/2007 |
| Q: I have read it is wise to plan for the future when installing wiring. I am finishing my basement and ... A: A normal sized hot tub will require a 50 or 60 amp, 240volt circuit. You can run a #6/3 with ground ... | |
| Wall switch activated recepticles. How can I remove the switching? | 7/3/2007 |
| Q: Is it possible to have switch activated recpticles permanently "turned on".? I had a fellow put in a ... A: If you can, after turning power off, remove the switch from the box, and note how many wires are in ... | |
| low voltage | 7/3/2007 |
| Q: i can no longer use power tools in my detached. garage (25 ft from house). i determined there is ... A: It sounds like you may have a wire that is bad, so a replacement is needed. You will need to use ... | |
| electrical wires in a closed wall | 7/2/2007 |
| Q: We had a sunroom built and there was not permit pulled. We are now seeking a permit. We had an ... A: Meg stands for megaohm, which is a measurement of resistance. When you meg a wire, it will show a ... | |
| outlet | 7/2/2007 |
| Q: i have an outlet with 3 lack and three white wires. i connected the black wired to the brass screws ... A: This could be caused by any number of things. Find out where each cable goes. Was the old outlet a ... | |
| short circuit | 7/2/2007 |
| Q: I'm tripping the same breaker in a vacant house, we're trying to rent. I had re-installed a couple ... A: Installing the outlets, or the switches upside down will not cause a short. Miswiring them will. ... | |
| Switch Loop Connections | 7/1/2007 |
| Q: Putting in Flood Lights on my garage, switch will be the end of the circuit in the house. There is a ... A: If you have one box for the fixture, and one box for the switch, and you have power coming into the ... | |
| Ceiling fan/remote | 7/1/2007 |
| Q: We purchased an Avion ceiling fan with remote. Everything worked well except for a little scraping ... A: You should be able to see a similiar unit with switches inside of the light fixture canopy. Set the ... | |
| ceiling fan installation | 6/29/2007 |
| Q: Rick, I am connecting a ceiling fan. Once I remove the plate on the ceiling, it exposes three ... A: Verify that the yellow wire is a switch leg, that is, it will be hot when the switch is turned on. ... | |
| color codes, wiring apartments, homes, etc | 6/28/2007 |
| Q: I want to know what the proper color codes are for wiring up electrical in homes, apts, etc, Ie ... A: The National Electrical Code does not contain a color code, but does say that the neutral of a ... | |
| Replaced 2-wire outlets | 6/28/2007 |
| Q: I'm currently looking at buying a 1950's house that contains a fair amount of 2-wire outlets. It ... A: To answer your questions: #1: It is a code violation to change out a 2-wire outlet and replace it ... | |
| ceiling fan/fuse blown | 6/27/2007 |
| Q: We installed a new ceiling fan last night and all was well. It was working for several hours, but ... A: How was the fan turned off? If the pull chain was used, it could have shorted out something in the ... | |
| wiring in wall | 6/27/2007 |
| Q: My friend just purchased a new home in Bolivia, NC. The contractor did not install the exterior ... A: The switch could be disconnected, which would keep the light fixture ends of the wire from becoming ... | |
| 15/20 amp recepts | 6/26/2007 |
| Q: Someone told me you could put 15 amp recepts on a 20 amp circuit but not the other way around. Is ... A: When you are talking about duplex receptacles, then you can put either 15 or 20 amp rated ... | |
| Bonding Generator | 6/26/2007 |
| Q: I just installed a 10,000 watt generator and had 3 questions about bonding it. The first is how do I ... A: Alot of the answers to your questions depend on the type of generator it is, portable or stationary, ... | |
| electrical (household/subpanel) | 6/25/2007 |
| Q: I recently purchased my home with detached garage. Garage already had a subpanel. I ran a new ... A: the limiting factor will be the size of the existing feeder from the main panel to the garage. If ... | |
| 90 degree vs 60 degree wiring | 6/25/2007 |
| Q: How can I tell if my supply wires are 60 degree or 90 degree? A: The outer cable sheath will have this info printed on it. Chances are if the wiring is more than ... | |
| gfci breaker amps | 6/24/2007 |
| Q: i recently purchased a house with a hot tub. when installed the put in a 50 amp gfci spa breaker box ... A: If the load exceeds 40amps, the inside breaker will trip. If any part of the system beyond the GFCI ... | |
| Three way switches on ceiling fans | 6/23/2007 |
| Q: Everything I have found on three way switches shows how to wire the light to two three way switches ... A: If you want to control both the light and the fan using 3-ways, then just wire 2 sets of the 3-way ... | |
| Pool gfci | 6/22/2007 |
| Q: I have a Gfci hooked up to my pool filter and it wont stay on.. But it will stay on with a regular ... A: Cody, if the pool filter plugs into a gfci outlet, then you can just replace the gfci outlet. ... | |
| sub panel grounding | 6/21/2007 |
| Q: I have a question that is similar to one you have answered. I have a 100 amp subpanel in my detached ... A: Lightning theory aside, the code is specific on this. If you run 4 wires, you separate the grounds ... | |
| pool pump wiring | 6/21/2007 |
| Q: A friend asked me to put in the electrical for a pool. Power needs to be run from a shed with a ... A: Adding a subpanel is fairly easy. Making sure the wiring for a pool installation is safe is not. ... | |
| Oven wiring | 6/21/2007 |
| Q: I'm about to remodel the kitchen in my 1988 Austin TX home, replacing an electric range with gas and ... A: the existing wiring sounds like normal wiring, with some additional wiring added at a later date. I ... | |
| Pool gfci | 6/20/2007 |
| Q: I have a Gfci hooked up to my pool filter and it wont stay on.. But it will stay on with a regular ... A: If the gfci tripps when the pool filter is on, then you have a problems with the filter unit. You ... | |
| Electrical Wiring for backyard storage | 6/20/2007 |
| Q: I want to run electrical from my breaker box in the garage to a storage in my backyard about 230ft ... A: Johathan, you asked: Why do I have to run it in a conduit? You have to run single conductors in a ... | |
| Replaced a light fixture with ceiling fan /light | 6/20/2007 |
| Q: I replaced a light fixture with a ceiling fan/light. It's controlled by a single switch. On the same ... A: It sounds like you may have a loose wire somewhere. From your description, it sounds like the 2 ... | |
| Grounding a remote building panel | 6/19/2007 |
| Q: I've read conflicting thins about ground a sub panel in a remote building. Is carrying the 4th ... A: First off, a panel in a seperate building is not a subpanel, while a 2nd panel in the same building ... | |
| A/C Unit wiring and breaker. | 6/18/2007 |
| Q: We are in the process of buying a house, the inspector came up with the following problem with the ... A: The master is correct if he based his findings on the nameplate for the compressor. The info given ... | |
| new wires | 6/18/2007 |
| Q: My house is 34 years old it was built with alluminum wiring, but has had some remodeling done with ... A: It could be. I recommend you hire an electrical company that has experience in al/cu wiring to come ... | |
| grounding a 240v circuit | 6/16/2007 |
| Q: I've read some conflicting views on where in the panel to affix the ground wire in a 240v circuit. ... A: If this panel you are attaching the cable to is your main panel, the 2 busses are the same. If this ... | |
| Intermittent power to outlets | 6/15/2007 |
| Q: First of all thank you for any assistance. I have 3 outlets in my home that are dead. I have put a ... A: Before doing anything to taxing, try pressing the reset button, then the reset button on the GFCIs. ... | |
| Install a halogen ceiling light | 6/15/2007 |
| Q: I would like to install a halogen ceiling light however it has 4 wires that are not color coded but ... A: If the wires do not have any marking, such as a ribbing on the insulation, I would be afraid to ... | |
| Electrical Wiring for backyard storage | 6/13/2007 |
| Q: I want to run electrical from my breaker box in the garage to a storage in my backyard about 230ft ... A: sorry for the delay in getting back to you. Your plan looks good. To answer your questions: Wire ... | |
| Inadequate Wiring | 6/13/2007 |
| Q: Recently the duplex that I have been renting now for three years has been having power surges, but ... A: I recommend you contact your local inspection department for you area. Most areas of the US forbid ... | |
| low voltage house wiring | 6/12/2007 |
| Q: could you tell me where I can get info on low voltage wall switches, low voltage panel box,s, and ... A: Sorry for the delay in getting back to you. I know leviton has low voltage lighting equipment, but ... | |
| Dimmer Switch/Flouresant lights | 6/11/2007 |
| Q: Our light bill has been really high, so we made a choice to switch to florescent lights, our kitchen ... A: I'm not sure if the new screw-in type of lamps are dimmable, but the costs are getting so low these ... | |
| Outlets not working | 6/11/2007 |
| Q: I had just asked another expert this question...his answer is below...wanted to follow up with him ... A: I agree with Robert, it sounds like a loose connection. The question is really, where? This could ... | |
| 250v | 6/10/2007 |
| Q: i purchased a window unit, not knowing they came in different volts , it has a 250v thing written on ... A: I would recommend you keep this unit, and have an electrician come in to run a seperate circuit for ... | |
| electricity wire | 6/9/2007 |
| Q: electrical cord, do i attach the ribbed side or the smooth side to the black wire. am putting ... A: Usually the ribbed side is the neutral. You should verify this with a continuity meter. The small ... | |
| GFI Tripping | 6/9/2007 |
| Q: I have just installed a 600ft run using #8 wire to my new dock. I am refurbishing an older trawler ... A: If the gfci holds when nothing is plugged in, then it is wired correctly. If it trips when a load ... | |
| sump pump | 6/8/2007 |
| Q: Although I am very familier with electrical work, I got my house wireing updated last year by a ... A: You have a couple of issues to address. The outlet installed outside of the home is required to ... | |
| GFI Switches | 6/7/2007 |
| Q: We are buying a home in WVa and are wondering, if when buying a home do places that don't currently ... A: Most of the rules in the National Electrical Code are not retroactive, and more than likely when the ... | |
| Electical capacity of a 200 Amp Sevice panel | 6/7/2007 |
| Q: I was looking at my service panel with the thought of installing two new 15 amp circuits for some ... A: First, the bad news. What you have is really a 100amp service, You do not add up the main breakers ... | |
| Feeder cable for Sub-Panel in basement | 6/7/2007 |
| Q: I have 200A service panel outside of my house with only 2 slots available and would like to add a ... A: If you are using a 100 amp breaker to feed the subpanel, you can use either #4 copper or #2 ... | |
| tophats | 6/6/2007 |
| Q: I'm putting tophats in, in the basement. The directions on the tophat say leave 3" of space above. ... A: I would ask the manufacturer of the recessed can. Usually, if they spec 3", it is because of the ... | |
| Wire circuits | 6/6/2007 |
| Q: Rick I am building in Mexico. The hardware store only sells single strand cables ie., 12G white, or ... A: For any circuit, you need to use the wire that is sized large enough for the load. A #12 wire is ... | |
| spltting a gfi to being part switched and the other part unswitched | 6/5/2007 |
| Q: I have a GFI located about 12 feet on my outside wall. I have an awning pluged into one receptacle ... A: The GFCI outlet cannot be split, however you could feed from the GFCI outlet to a switch (using the ... | |
| Danger warning on new light fixture | 6/4/2007 |
| Q: When I went to replace two ceiling light fixtures in my home (built 1971 - copper wire) the new ... A: The warning has to do with the insulation of the wiring feeding the light fixture, not with the ... | |
| no power | 6/3/2007 |
| Q: the outlet has no power and the circuit is on....... checked all outlets and everything works except ... A: It sounds like you may have tripped a GFCI somewhere. Look for this type of outlet outside, in ... | |
| Bathroom lighting | 6/3/2007 |
| Q: I have an old house with aluminum wiring. I am in the process of changing out a light fixture in the ... A: You can just wire nut the two wires together, which will tie the incoming ground to the fixture via ... | |
| New light fixture | 6/3/2007 |
| Q: we bought a used light fixture at a garage sale, and the only wires are brown (and a grounding ... A: If you have a volt/ohm meter you can trace each wire to the lamp socket. The neutral wire will be ... | |
| GFI outlet | 6/2/2007 |
| Q: I have an outdoor outlet that has a GFI receptacle. It tripped the other night during a ... A: These do go bad, but perhaps you are not resetting it correctly. Try pressing the test button 1st, ... | |
| junction box / light / in a closet | 6/2/2007 |
| Q: 1) Is it ok to install an enclosed incandescent light on the wall of a closed ? If yes what should ... A: Regis, this is a product that should be readily avaidable. Look for an extension ring, mud ring, ... | |
| 220v problem | 6/1/2007 |
| Q: I have a condo in Tenn. Last winter I got a large elec bill { i hadn't been there) Found out that ... A: Wow, thats a tough one. Try unwiring heater, then turn the breaker on. If it trips, then there is ... | |
| Installing Range Outlet | 6/1/2007 |
| Q: I am doing some work on my kitchen and have questions related to adding an outlet for a new electric ... A: You asked: "1. In all the books I have looked at the grounding wire is the same gauge as the other ... | |
| Garage wiring | 5/31/2007 |
| Q: I resently bought a 1975 home in NC and have dicovered that there is 220V in the detached Garage. ... A: You had to be reading voltage between the 2 hot wires in order to get 220volts. Maybe your neutral ... | |
| junction box / light / in a closet | 5/31/2007 |
| Q: 1) Is it ok to install an enclosed incandescent light on the wall of a closed ? If yes what should ... A: #1: If you have at least 12" clearance from the luminaire to the storage space, you can use this ... | |
| open vs. short circuit | 5/30/2007 |
| Q: Could you explain to me, in layman's terms, the difference between an open and a short circuit? If ... A: A short circuit will blow your overcurrent protector, be it a fuse or a breaker. An open will not ... | |
| 220 to 110 | 5/30/2007 |
| Q: We have an above-ground backyard spa. The wiring is 220. We are wondering if there is a way to tap ... A: I would recommend against tapping into this circuit. A seperate GFCI protected circuit would be ... | |
| electrical service panels | 5/29/2007 |
| Q: I live in a home built in 1978 in the state of Utah. I currently have my main service panel located ... A: This is doable, depending on alot of things. I recommend you get a few estimates from local ... | |
| Ceiling fan with light | 5/28/2007 |
| Q: I remodeled the kitchen. I have a ceiling fan with a light. Wiring on the fan is: white, black, ... A: Jerry, that makes my answer correct! wow, how many times has that happened?? I noticed in a trade ... | |
| Doorbell Transformer Placement... | 5/28/2007 |
| Q: I'm installing a doorbell in my house. There are two buttons, one for each door, and the doors are ... A: Normally the transformer is attached to a surface mount box, since the 120v side of it requires a ... | |
| Bus Bar Routing | 5/27/2007 |
| Q: I'm working on a high rise project where the vertical busbars dont go straight up, i.e. they bend ... A: I have no experience with this type of installation. I would think keeping the arrangement of the ... | |
| Residential Wiring | 5/25/2007 |
| Q: I have installed nine recessed fixtures under the eave of my home around a patio. I have a ... A: If you are just running lights, then you should be able to do away with the GFCI. It may be sensing ... | |
| Rewiring dryer outlet | 5/25/2007 |
| Q: I've moved into a new home and my dryer was wired with a 3-wire cord, and the outlet was one of the ... A: You never connect the neutral with the ground, anywhere within a house, except at the service ... | |
| romex re-use | 5/24/2007 |
| Q: I'm roughing in wire as part of a basement remodeling project, some new and some old (10-20 years, ... A: Andy, you can install this cable right next to, touching, or within the insulation, without any ... | |
| Power Surge | 5/24/2007 |
| Q: Good day, Is it possible for a Power surge to occur in a sub station and affect only one unit in a ... A: I'm afraid I would need a little more info before answering this question. What do you mean by ... | |
| loss of pwr | 5/23/2007 |
| Q: We lost power in the upstairs lights. All the receptacles are working but the Msr bath, msr walk in ... A: First off, make sure there are no loads connected, which may require you to remove all the lamps and ... | |
| neutral bar to ground buss bar | 5/23/2007 |
| Q: Everything I've read, indicates that if you have a separate neutral bar and ground buss bar, the two ... A: First off, if this is on the main disconnect or main panel, they are to be tied toegher. If it is ... | |
| installing a ceiling fan without the wiring fixture in place | 5/22/2007 |
| Q: i am working on a home that doesn't have a fixture in place for me to install a ceiling fan. so ... A: You will probably find that it is a difficult job running to the existing switch. I recommend this: ... | |
| doorbell problem | 5/21/2007 |
| Q: The doorbell quit working in my new home. I have a multi-tester and found that there was 110 to the ... A: Ok Del. If you have the pushbutton either tied together or taken out of the circuit, you will power ... | |
| doorbell problem | 5/21/2007 |
| Q: The doorbell quit working in my new home. I have a multi-tester and found that there was 110 to the ... A: Not to complicate things, the way you have it hooked up when you verified that you had 20volts ... | |
| lighting | 5/20/2007 |
| Q: What’s the minimum amount of lighting circuits for a 1900 square foot dwelling? This was a question ... A: This is a calculation that is one of the more basic questions, one that everyone involved with the ... | |
| eletrical wiring | 5/20/2007 |
| Q: There is a light as well as a outlet on the rear of the house that dont work. We took a tester and ... A: It sounds like you may have a losse neutral connection, probably in the basement light fixture. ... | |
| light/fan | 5/19/2007 |
| Q: I have a bathroom outlet that is for a light and a fan and I came home and neither of them worked. ... A: Make sure that you don't have a tripped GFCI outlet somewhere. This is the type of outlet that has ... | |
| Romex in Conduit | 5/19/2007 |
| Q: I am finishing my utility room and had a question about running romex in conduit. All wiring in ... A: The reason for the conduit was for protection, when the cable was exposed. Since you will be ... | |
| Wiring A Wall Switch | 5/19/2007 |
| Q: I'm going to install a wall switch for an 2 separate lights out side my home using a UF cable, the ... A: First off you will need to identify the wires in the wall box. If you can identify a hot wire and a ... | |
| lighting fixture trouble | 5/18/2007 |
| Q: Having difficulty installing a new dining room overhead light. 1973 era home with copper wire ... A: The way your friend said to wire it is the usual way to do it. You will need to open up the switch ... | |
| GFI Switches | 5/17/2007 |
| Q: We have a GFI recept. in our garage, which we have a freezer connected. On occasion when we go out ... A: OB, there is not a automatic reset gfci, but what you can do is remove the gfci outlet, and replace ... | |
| adding power to a outbuilding | 5/16/2007 |
| Q: I want to run power to an outbuilding. I was going to use a double 30 amp breaker in my main box so ... A: If you are using a 30amp breaker, the smallest wire size would be #10 copper. Larger is better, but ... | |
| No power in detached garage | 5/16/2007 |
| Q: I have a sub-panel in our detached garage. But I've lost power on all the lights and fans and ... A: Using a voltmeter, check to see if you do have voltage leaving your main panel breaker. If you do, ... | |
| Wire/piping | 5/15/2007 |
| Q: I recently gutted my entire house down to the exterior walls. I wanted to run a 3" pipe down from ... A: The problem with multiple runs of cable in one pipe is that the wire cannot get rid of heat buildup, ... | |
| dry rot electrical wire coating | 5/14/2007 |
| Q: I purchased a 1978 built home. At least one plain-jane light receptacle has two sockets for a 60 ... A: I recommend that you replace any damaged light fixtures, and never over-size the lamps. The damage ... | |
| Breaker Box in finished basement | 5/14/2007 |
| Q: We are finishing our basement, and our home has two breaker boxes at opposite ends of the basement. ... A: Unles there is a local written rule, you can install a breaker box in a bedroom. What may be ... | |
| New subpanel for pool and pool heat pump | 5/14/2007 |
| Q: I am installing a new heat pump for my existing in-ground pool. Since I am not happy with the ... A: It looks like you have a good plan. To answer your questions: #1: This looks correct. #2: 100amp ... | |
| 100 amp service to garage | 5/12/2007 |
| Q: I am planning on running 100 amp service to a garage that would require about 30 feet of wire. In ... A: If you will be using a 100amp breaker in the main panel, you will need to use 100amp wire, which for ... | |
| Electrical underground | 5/11/2007 |
| Q: I have to change my electrical box and the way my wire is ran from my house to detached garage, the ... A: I find that single wires run a pvc is an easier installation than using cable, plus it gives you the ... | |
| neutral bar | 5/10/2007 |
| Q: We have a 100 amp disconnect by our meter and then the wire runs about 50' to our box. The wire is ... A: copper turning green is usually caused by moisture. If the two panel (or disconnect and subponel) ... | |
| Constant / Variable Outlet | 5/10/2007 |
| Q: "I have recently upgraded all my switches and outlets to decora... I have only one single ... A: On outlets, the white or silver screw is for the neutral, while the brass or dark screw if for the ... | |
| Aerial wiring to a detatched pavilion | 5/10/2007 |
| Q: I have a pavilion in the back yard near our new garage. It had a single 20amp GFCI circuit that ... A: You can do this, but make sure you have enough height so that you won't be able to touch the cable ... | |
| Want to ask yousome Questions | 5/9/2007 |
| Q: I need information about a Room underground Wiring Diagram...If you tell me about Wiring that how i ... A: Irfan, other than the few suggestions I gave in the orginal reply, I don't think I can help using ... | |
| Lateral Service Entrance Cable. | 5/8/2007 |
| Q: I would like to install a large window well around a basement window. The underground Service ... A: This cable might be able to be spliced, but for all the work that would be involved, I recommend a ... | |
| Main Panel to Sub-Panel | 5/8/2007 |
| Q: I currently have a CH MBE4040B200BTS Meter main panel on my pump house drawing only power to run ... A: If the new panel is in a seperate building from the main panel, then you should use 4 wires, ... | |
| ceiling fan wiring | 5/8/2007 |
| Q: I am installing a ceiling fan with a light in a previously used breakfast room light location. ... A: You will need to verify that the red wire is being energized by the 2 wall switches you think are ... | |
| Sub-Panel | 5/7/2007 |
| Q: I am in the process of installing a 125 amp sub-panel for a new pool/spa/lighting installation. I ... A: In order to install 3 #1/0 copper wire, you would need a 2" PVC conduit. For 3 #2/0, you would also ... | |
| Renovation | 5/6/2007 |
| Q: Do to an awkward ceiling light location I would like to convert from swtich to ceiling light, to ... A: This is possible to do, but due to many different wiring methods, almost impossible to explain how ... | |
| Want to ask yousome Questions | 5/6/2007 |
| Q: I need information about a Room underground Wiring Diagram...If you tell me about Wiring that how i ... A: What you are asking for is hard to answer, due to a number of things. If your walls are concrete, ... | |
| installing a dimmer light switch | 5/5/2007 |
| Q: I am replacing an exisiting kitchen light switch in a very old home (built in 1900) with a dimmer ... A: First off, make sure you have the power off when installing a dimmer. If there is no grounding ... | |
| 240V vs 120V | 5/4/2007 |
| Q: If one has a choice (a multi-tap transformer for instance), why would one use 240volts instead of ... A: Gary, the code uses the hard numbers (120 & 240) for calculations, and the softer numbers for ... | |
| GFI trips...nothing plugged in | 5/3/2007 |
| Q: I have a GFI that keeps tripping when nothing is plugged into it. It's always when I run the ... A: You could have a bad GFCI, or the GFCI is seeing the heating (drying) cycle of the DW as a short, ... | |
| 220 vrs 110 | 5/3/2007 |
| Q: BUT I don't know why. can you help or direct me somewhere Thanks loads A: This is a common misconception. The orginal installation will cost less, due to using smaller ... | |
| low voltage in multiple switch circuit | 5/2/2007 |
| Q: I have at least two different lights on different breakers that work properly with the switch in the ... A: This could be caused by induction, but it is more likely that the switches are actually letting a ... | |
| 240V vs 120V | 5/1/2007 |
| Q: If one has a choice (a multi-tap transformer for instance), why would one use 240volts instead of ... A: For a 240v load, you can use a smaller wire and smaller conduit. The draw on a motor load at 240v ... | |
| electrical | 5/1/2007 |
| Q: how many plugs and/or switches can be on a 15 amp and a 20 amp breaker and why A: Normally, a duplex receptacle is rated 180va. A 15 amp circuit can handle up to 1440 watts (or va) ... | |
| outside plug | 4/30/2007 |
| Q: hey i have a plug that is for my washer which is a higher voltage then the normal 120v can i take ... A: According to the code, the laundry outlet cannot be used for other room outlets, nor for outdoor ... | |
| PLUGIN CONTROLLED BY SWITCH | 4/30/2007 |
| Q: im trying to run power to a plugin that will be controlled by a switch. I want to plug my garbage ... A: You will connect the incoming black (hot) wire to the white wire going to the switch. Then the ... | |
| hot neutral | 4/29/2007 |
| Q: i have a wiring problem in my sons room. light is not working along with some of the outlets. i ... A: It looks like you may have some loose wiring connections somewhere in this circuit. A loose neutral ... | |
| Connecting Panel to 150 AMP Subpanel in addition | 4/29/2007 |
| Q: We are attempting to wire our new addition and are stuck. We live in Virginia. We currently have ... A: I would doubt that your electrical service is 300amps. Most utilites require CT metering for ... | |
| sizing amperage for sub panels | 4/28/2007 |
| Q: The main house service = 200 amp. An additional level is being added to the home. The subpanel will ... A: You will base the load on 3 watts per sq.ft. plus specific appliance load, which in your case is the ... | |
| wiring dimmer switch PAST 3 recessed fixtures | 4/28/2007 |
| Q: I want to install a dimmer switch past three recessed fixtures. This will be a new circuit and new ... A: You could do it with 3 wire cable, but I recommend you run a 2-wire cable to the switch first, then ... | |
| light fixtures | 4/27/2007 |
| Q: i have A old ligth fixture and i bougth a newer one. and there is 3 wires but only two for the old ... A: The bare copper wire will be your ground wire, which will connect to the hanger bar that supports ... | |
| Pool pomp switch | 4/26/2007 |
| Q: I want to add a power switch close to a pool pomp.It's a 12A pomp secured with a 15A breaker. I have ... A: You should use equipment that is UL approved for pool equipment. You will need to keep the switch ... | |
| can I use a dryer outlet for a welder? | 4/26/2007 |
| Q: Rick, I have read myself into a circle. I want to add a welder to my arsenal of tools, but the ... A: You can plug it in to the dryer outlet, but there may be times (heavy weldeing, or to low of ... | |
| extending a microwave cord by 18"?? | 4/25/2007 |
| Q: Mr. Miell- My wife and I have rented a lovely 1910-1920 home in San Diego. Wiring seems to meet ... A: Doing this work will void any warranty that you have on the microwave, and could effect your ... | |
| several outlets out, no breakers off | 4/25/2007 |
| Q: Last evening, we suddenly lost power in outlets in several different rooms in our house but no ... A: You will need to check your electrical system using a voltage meter. You may have lost one leg of ... | |
| In Wall Splice | 4/25/2007 |
| Q: Greetings: I am doing a remodel / update of the wiring in my garage with an upstairs bunk house. I ... A: There is no product for doing this. The only way is to splice in a box, and cover that box. It has ... | |
| pool grounding | 4/24/2007 |
| Q: Rick, I just had an inground pool installed in my yard. it has a low voltage in it. My question is ... A: I believe the grid need to connect your control panel feeding the pool equipment. If that is your ... | |
| Electrical Wiring for the Swimming Pool | 4/24/2007 |
| Q: I recently bought a mid sixties house with a mid sixties pool that has mid sixties wiring. I've got ... A: Most likely, with the new equipment you purchase, you will receive a wiring diagram. Follow these ... | |
| running new circuit | 4/23/2007 |
| Q: I want to run a new circuit from an existing switch to a new location. I am unable to pull the old ... A: You can just push it out of the box, into the wall space, as long as both ends are not connected to ... | |
| smoke detectors | 4/23/2007 |
| Q: The past year I've been wiring low voltage and now that I'm rewiring my house I've forgotten some ... A: Brian, your first cable will only feed power to the 1st smokie. From there, if you will be using ... | |
| low voltage wire | 4/23/2007 |
| Q: looking for a flexible low voltage wire for in-wall wiring coming from secondary of 12VOLT ... A: Sorry for the delay in getting back to you. I'm not sure what the rating is for speaker wire. I'm ... | |
| Braker Box Garage | 4/22/2007 |
| Q: I put a 125 amp breaker box in my Garage it has no ground to the box do i have to Add a Grounding ... A: Usually the panel will have a sperate screw that you will have to install to tie the grounds to the ... | |
| smoke detectors | 4/22/2007 |
| Q: The past year I've been wiring low voltage and now that I'm rewiring my house I've forgotten some ... A: You will just need one wire for the hot, and one for the neutral (along with the ground wire) to ... | |
| Exterior Waterfall | 4/22/2007 |
| Q: I purchased a 900w transformer to hard wire a water fall pump in to the same low voltage wire as the ... A: If the pump is low voltage, then this should work. If it supposed to be powered by household ... | |
| Electrical wall plug wiring | 4/21/2007 |
| Q: I have an electrical plug that has 2 sets of wires to it. Both sets are only one black and one white ... A: If the cables include a ground wire, or if the box is grounded, you can, but if there is no ground ... | |
| converting 3 prong outlet for dryer to 4 prong | 4/21/2007 |
| Q: I bought a new dryer and didn't realize it came with a 4 prong wire. The existing outlet is a 3 wire ... A: The code change has to do with a new circuit, not an existing circuit. You can change the cord to a ... | |
| wiring up | 4/20/2007 |
| Q: on a 2 ton condencing unit is it alright to use #6 awg from the panel to the disconnect A: I don't have a formula for figuring load from the tonnage rating. You can use the information ... | |
| Covering a residential Electric Panel with a cupboard | 4/20/2007 |
| Q: My home electric / circut breaker panel is taking up wall space that would be an ideal place to ... A: You would not be able to do this. The panel must have access from directly in front of the panel, ... | |
| Fuse box | 4/19/2007 |
| Q: I turned all the switches to off in the fuse box before installing a sensor light to front garage. ... A: Try resetting the breakers again. If it still won't work, turn off everything, remove the fixture ... | |
| upgrading an old home | 4/19/2007 |
| Q: The home that my husband and I just bought was built in '53. The electrical and all the "repairs" ... A: I recommend you call a couple of local electrical contractors to give you an estimate. If the home ... | |
| grounding | 4/18/2007 |
| Q: I wanted to know if I properly grounded my jacuzzi tub.In my service panel I used a ground lug and ... A: The equipment grounding conductor should be landed in the grounding buss in the main panel, which ... | |
| diference between comercial and residential | 4/17/2007 |
| Q: what is the diference between electrical work in residential and comercial? what is the diference ... A: Commercial work is usually all done in conduit, while residences are wired in cable (Romex, or NMB ... | |
| new lighting fixture | 4/17/2007 |
| Q: I am installing a new ceiling fixture. The one I took down had 4 wires, green, blue, black & white. ... A: You will connect the green to the green or ground in your box. You will connect the white to the ... | |
| quick connect junction box | 4/17/2007 |
| Q: I have to replace the old wire for three room lights. I don't want to use caps and tape. is there ... A: For dwellings there is no such item to connect wires. You will have to use a splice box and splice ... | |
| Fixing Halogen Under Cabinet Lights | 4/16/2007 |
| Q: I have halogen under cabinet lights. 3 of them wired to one switch. They haven't worked for a long ... A: You will need to find the transformer, to make sure you have supply power, as well as the low ... | |
| a/c wiring | 4/16/2007 |
| Q: what size wire goes out to a 2 ton condensing unit. i know from the disconnect to the unit is ... A: I don't know the formula for figuring this, but all the required information should be on the ... | |
| Putting in a new Ceiling light | 4/15/2007 |
| Q: I am replacing an older ceiling fixture with a new model. My house was built in 1965 and has three ... A: How was the old fixture hooked up? Usually the red is a switched leg, and the white is the neutral, ... | |
| Replacing bathroom light fixture | 4/15/2007 |
| Q: I'm replacing two 4-light fixtures with two 3-light fixtures in the bath. When I removed the old ... A: If these incoming wires are switched, just tie all the blacks together, and tie all the whites ... | |
| new main breakers in multi-dwelling home | 4/14/2007 |
| Q: I've got a huge building with 6 small appartments upstairs, and 3 storefront downstairs. Each ... A: I would think your local inspector would require you to have mains at each meter, to keep unfused ... | |
| Service Entrance | 4/14/2007 |
| Q: Do you know if SE or SER cable is not rated to be installed in conduit. I can't find any USE with ... A: I'm pretty sure that it can be installed in conduit, however if it will be in underground conduit, ... | |
| New wiring recess lights 3 switches | 4/13/2007 |
| Q: Asked Ben from the site about this, but very anxous on getting started so I'm going to ask you too. ... A: Yes you can, but it will take better diagrams than I can put on this site. Visit ... | |
| Lightning protection | 4/13/2007 |
| Q: I am just curious and justifying my colleagues claim that a lightning protection installed in a ... A: No amount of protection will give you 100% protection. Depending on the type of lightning ... | |
| 3 prong outlet /four prong plug? | 4/13/2007 |
| Q: When I went to plug in my new oven it has a 4 prong plug but my outlet from my old oven is a 3 prong ... A: If the instructions that came with the new range give directions on using a 3-wire cord, then you ... | |
| Turn 220 into a fuse box for workshop. | 4/12/2007 |
| Q: I have an un-used 220 outlet (dryer) adjacent to where I have a workshop. I would like to create a ... A: Doing so depends on a few things. If you need 240volts and 120volts supply in the shop, the feeder ... | |
| wiring | 4/12/2007 |
| Q: How many lights can I run off a 15 amp breaker using 14/2 wire? Also, in hanging a recessed light, ... A: A 15 amp breaker can handle up to 80% of that (80% X15 =12amps) continuously (more than 3 hours). ... | |
| baseboard heaters | 4/12/2007 |
| Q: I am wiring 5 new baseboard heaters in a renovated apt. I have run the cable from the panel to the ... A: If the ratings of the heaters don't exceed the ratings for the wire, then you can do it. I believe ... | |
| Garage Sub-Panel wiring | 4/11/2007 |
| Q: I have a garage that is split into two sections. It will have a 50 amp sub-panel in each section ... A: First off, you should check to see that you can do this type of work, with your local inspector. ... | |
| federal pacific electric co. meter socket | 4/11/2007 |
| Q: I need to replace my meter socket, and I don't know where to get a replace part. The current socket ... A: You should be able to only get your socket replaced, while not rebuilding your whole service. This ... | |
| Spa GFCI and SE Cable (two parts) | 4/11/2007 |
| Q: 1. A factory built spa has GFCI protection installed on all circuits. Is it still required under ... A: I would think Sq D makes one, but I don't have any numbers for you. The exception for single family ... | |
| Sparking in Panel | 4/10/2007 |
| Q: I have a 100A panel installed in my home, when I got home from work my TV wouldn't turn on or would ... A: Usually sparks indicate a loose connection. Turn each breaker off, then tighten the screw holding ... | |
| Outlet does not work all others just fine | 4/9/2007 |
| Q: I have an outlet that just stopped working. Everything else electric is just fine, I replaced it, ... A: It sounds like you may have a loose or broken connection upstream from this outlet. You should also ... | |
| Surge Protectors | 4/9/2007 |
| Q: Why are there different types of surge protectors for Computers, TV's and Audio equipment? If you ... A: There are alot of different levels of protection, and different options for protection. You can ... | |
| Have 200 AMP Temp Breaker box - need more breakers | 4/9/2007 |
| Q: For about 6 years I've had electric service to a camper, by a Temp Svc, or Disconnect, 200 AMP ... A: You can buy a main lug only panel, but I don't think this is what you will need for your electical ... | |
| GFIC panel | 4/9/2007 |
| Q: Hey Rick, 2 Qs here. How high/low can my GFIC panel be from the ground (lower the better for me)? ... A: The code is silent on minimum heights of panels, unless it is in a moble home. You should try to ... | |
| three phase electric | 4/8/2007 |
| Q: i have 3 phase delta 60 amp going into my shop. how do i get install a sub panel for 240 when there ... A: You will not be able to use single phase power out of this supply. You might be able to install a ... | |
| panel | 4/8/2007 |
| Q: I just bought a small piece of property on the water there is a meter and panel on the pole. I ... A: To tell what you have now, look at the pole panel. It should have either fuses or a breaker. ... | |
| 220 | 4/8/2007 |
| Q: This may sound dumb or very simple but here it goes. Everyone knows electricity needs a hot and ... A: A circuit needs to be complete, not just a neutral and hot. 2 hots, because they are on opposite ... | |
| 10-3 | 4/7/2007 |
| Q: I'm wiring for a dryer (220) and when I was drilling holes for plumbing, my drill rubbed against the ... A: The code allows for repair (tapeing the wire), but the repair has to bring the insulation back up to ... | |
| Flood light power | 4/7/2007 |
| Q: I recently had a siding repair and an outside light was working prior to the repair. the light ... A: Most likely problem is that the siding installer ran a nail into the wiring feeding the light. You ... | |
| 220v to 110v | 4/7/2007 |
| Q: I AM TRYING TO CONVERT A 30AMP 220 BREAKER TO A 110AMP BREAKER I NOW HAVE 234v AT THE END OF THE ... A: Usually a 240 volt line to a pump does not include the neutral, which is required for a 120volt ... | |
| 110v suppressor on 220v circuit for 110v-240v device | 4/7/2007 |
| Q: I have 110 volts suppressors. They are to be used before DC transformers that can take 110~240 ... A: If these units are voltage suppressors, then they do just that, supress voltage at a certain limit, ... | |
| electric wiring | 4/6/2007 |
| Q: i do line work for a local utility so i usually work on the other side of the meter, but i am ... A: Continue to use your ufer ground, unless you know that it has been damaged by lighting or some other ... | |
| wiring duplex outlet | 4/5/2007 |
| Q: I am adding outlets over my work bench. Coming off end of existing circuit. I want to put a 4 gang ... A: Coming off your existing circuit, run a cable with 1 black, 1 white, and 1 ground to a 2-gang box. ... | |
| adding a subpanel to existing circuit panel | 4/5/2007 |
| Q: I am remodeling a room for a home theater system and would like to run a dedicated 20amp service to ... A: Most panels allow the use of twin or half size breakers, allowing you to have another circuit ... | |
| stranded to solid | 4/5/2007 |
| Q: when hooking up a light fixture and twisting stranded to solid it doesn't seem like a good ... A: If you have the wires stripped the same amount, and keep the ends the same, using a wirenut should ... | |
| electrical panel | 4/4/2007 |
| Q: i bought a condominium and when i did the inspection they told me the bonding straps is missing. i ... A: The bonding strap is a physical connection tieing the neutral of the electrical service to the ... | |
| Wiring and conduits in garage | 4/4/2007 |
| Q: I am planning on wiring either 3 or 4 circuit in the garage. I was thinking of a 30A 220V, a 50A ... A: I would think you could use individual wires, and not use any cables in the conduit. For this size, ... | |
| Sub-panel (breaker box) to garage using 10/3 | 4/3/2007 |
| Q: When my house was built the genius electrician ran 14 gauge wire to One outlet. Besides being too ... A: A #10 wire can only have a 30amp (or less) breaker on it. The branch breakers in the garage should ... | |
| Convert switched receptacle | 4/3/2007 |
| Q: I've installed a ceiling light in an older home with a switched receptacle. I've run the wire and ... A: I can't get a good picture of what the wiring is, from your description. You might want to visit ... | |
| 220 wiring and mig welder | 4/3/2007 |
| Q: Can I use a 10 ga. stranded wire with a 40amp mig welder applicaton? The mig welder only has three ... A: It sounds like the unit does not require the neutral, so your hookup would work. The size of wire ... | |
| Electrical backfeed through TV Cable | 4/2/2007 |
| Q: Cable company was out today to check some picture problems. He said that he was getting a backfeed ... A: I seen this before, usually after a recent siding job. A nail is hammered into an electrical line, ... | |
| Ceiling fan problem: lights off and fan on | 4/2/2007 |
| Q: I bought this old house last year. There is hampton bay ceiling fan in family room. After we moved ... A: Assumming that your bulbs are good, you can try the switch that turns the lights on/off. If this ... | |
| grounding breaker panels | 4/2/2007 |
| Q: We have a 200A main panel that was installed in 1993. The panel has its ground bus which connects ... A: Donald, like I said previously, if the subpanel is in the same building as your main, you are ... | |
| Rewiring a 1930's home | 4/2/2007 |
| Q: I am looking into rewiring my 1930's era home. I have a 200 amp service at a power-pole, there is a ... A: Most areas require an outside disconnect, before running the wire inside the home. With a 54' ... | |
| 240 line, two heaters | 4/1/2007 |
| Q: I recently took out a wall and found that one 240 volt line was feeding 2 heaters in completely ... A: You can splice cables, but you did not give me enough info to answer your question. If the circuit ... | |
| 3 way and a receptacle | 4/1/2007 |
| Q: I would like to add a GFCI to the garage but I don't think I have the power to keep the outlet on. ... A: You are correct, you don't have the correct wiring to do this. Your switch box in the garage does ... | |
| hot tub wiring | 4/1/2007 |
| Q: i bought a hot tub and had an electrician pre wire for it . the wiring is 220v three wire ....red, ... A: If you can, look at the instruction manual for this unit. See what the electrical rating is, and ... | |
| GFI and down stream protected receptacles | 3/31/2007 |
| Q: I installed a GFI in a garage, I came off the load terminals of the GFI to protect 2 other ... A: I think your orginal problem was a neutral wire touching a ground wire in one of the light fixtures. ... | |
| wiring | 3/31/2007 |
| Q: I have a new breaker box in my shed. I do not see a separate ground bar for the bare copper wire. I ... A: If the feed to the shed consists of only 3 wires, then you can. If the feed is 4-wire, or if there ... | |
| switch distances from tubs & showers | 3/30/2007 |
| Q: I'm helping install a new bathroom in a master bedroom. We put a light switch and a fan timer in for ... A: I could not find any place in the code that restricts switches outside of the tub/shower space. You ... | |
| 3 phase 60 amp | 3/30/2007 |
| Q: we have a problem... Our Spa shows Red Blk Green white. Our GFI is only 50 Amps? Do we need another ... A: You will need to look at the electrical requirements on the spa. Then you will use the required ... | |
| grounding breaker panels | 3/29/2007 |
| Q: We have a 200A main panel that was installed in 1993. The panel has its ground bus which connects ... A: All good questions. You really should talk to your local inspector to get the run-down on these ... | |
| changing breakers | 3/29/2007 |
| Q: I have changed from a electric range to a gas range. I would like to swap the 220 spot on my ... A: I recommend running new circuits for these items, and not using the existing range wiring. You may ... | |
| Blown Fuse | 3/28/2007 |
| Q: My son accidentally got a balloon caught in the ceiling fan. We immediately turned it off and ... A: First off, make sure you turn the breaker all the way off before resetting it. If this does no ... | |
| Recptacles | 3/28/2007 |
| Q: How far apart are receptacles to be placed in new construction? Is there a difference in the ... A: I recommend that you get a copy of the National Electrical Code, as there are a few rules for ... | |
| steam generator | 3/28/2007 |
| Q: I have installed all the plumbing to this steam generator and now im looking at the electrical part. ... A: Usually having 3 lines designated as your input (L1, L2 & L3) means the unit is a 3-phase unit, not ... | |
| service entrance cable size | 3/28/2007 |
| Q: I am running service entrance cable 360ft from the meter to the house. No one seems to want to tell ... A: First off, you are required by code to use a minimum 2/0 copper service entrance conductor for a 200 ... | |
| Smoke Detector | 3/27/2007 |
| Q: I ran across your site searching for information on if/when I should replace smoke detectors. I ... A: Most detectors use optical sensors, which smoke, as well as dust, blocks. If the dust block the ... | |
| Lights on a 30 amp circuit | 3/26/2007 |
| Q: I've got an ouside line of #8 running for about 120 feet with 2 outlets on a 20 amp breaker. I'd ... A: I recommend you change the wire to #10, and remove all other wiring except for the trailer plug. ... | |
| Electrical Service Panel | 3/26/2007 |
| Q: I bought my first house and the house has a 30 amp electrical panel. I need to upgrade it to 100 ... A: Unfortunately, installing an electrical service is not a DIY project. You might want to visit with ... | |
| Bonding screw | 3/26/2007 |
| Q: I have a GE 100 amp disconnect box and it failed the inspection because it did not have a bonding ... A: If the screw fits the hole, then you should be able to run it all the way in, till it is tight. ... | |
| Service upgrade | 3/25/2007 |
| Q: I am looking to upgrade my electrical service from a 100 amp to 200 amp. I talked to the utility ... A: You are correct, it is the meter socket. Some power companies provide this socket to homeowners, ... | |
| feeding additional lights | 3/25/2007 |
| Q: I do have one question. I have a double gang box that feeds the bathroom fan and 5 lights in the ... A: I'm not sure of your existing wiring, or of your plans. Write back with a little more detail, and ... | |
| bathroom wiring question | 3/25/2007 |
| Q: My wife has had health problems do to a lack of exhaust fan in the bathroom and the humidity that ... A: Kelly, it sounds like you don't have the necessary wiring to do this. In order to use 3 switches, ... | |
| wiring ceiling fan | 3/25/2007 |
| Q: I'm installing a ceiling fan. The instructions address black (hot), white (neutral) and green/bare ... A: Usually the additional wire is for a switch leg to work the fan kit, which is usually an add-on. ... | |
| Replacing outlet with a wall switch | 3/24/2007 |
| Q: I want to replace a receptacle in the kitchen with a switch for a new garbage disposal. I found the ... A: The circuit to the disposal will have it's white wire tied to the 2 whites at the outlet box. The ... | |
| Wires in light fitting | 3/24/2007 |
| Q: I am trying to fit a new light and there are two live, two neutral and what looks like two earth. ... A: The fixture needs to have both a neutral connection and a hot connection. It may or may not have a ... | |
| 220 volt for appliances | 3/23/2007 |
| Q: can 220 be run through a house as in Europe for appliances and such...like refrigerators, various ... A: If the appliances are rated for 220vac, 60 hz, then you can install and use it in you home. I ... | |
| Electrical splicing and grounding | 3/23/2007 |
| Q: Installing solar inverter for critical loads. It is fed by a 60 AMP 4AWG 220V circuit from an ... A: If I am reading your post correctly, you have a code violtation. You cannot bond any neutral to any ... | |
| General electrical question | 3/22/2007 |
| Q: Hey Rick, I am doing a course in electrical and was asked a question on an assignment and I cannot ... A: I think you have it almost correct. I would think that if the grounding at house B is faulty, the ... | |
| 220 volt electric outlet | 3/22/2007 |
| Q: I have a Craftsmen compressor that runs on 220- Can I hook into an existing 220 line I have in my ... A: If the pump is in use, then you can not use this circuit, and you will need to run a new circuit. ... | |
| Will gfi and arc fault breakers work correctly with wrong wire to sub panel | 3/22/2007 |
| Q: My carpenter ran some 2/2 aluminum wire to a new 100 amp sub panel. Now I am getting profesional ... A: Aluminum wiring is approved for use in homes. I'm not sure whay the existing wires is not up to ... | |
| Switch | 3/21/2007 |
| Q: I have twin wire 24volt dc going to motor on adjustable bed. One wire is + for raising and - for ... A: I'm not sure if you have the wiring correct. The motor will run one direction when the dc wires are ... | |
| Repalcing a residential main panel | 3/21/2007 |
| Q: I have taken 2 semesters of residential wiring and I'm confident I can do the work but I have never ... A: There is alot involved with this type of work, and it takes years of experience to get it done ... | |
| 2 or more circuits in the kitchen for counter outlets | 3/20/2007 |
| Q: I have been reading a lot about the code requiring two separate circuits for kitchen counter ... A: That is one way to do it, with another way being that circuit #1 is in the 1st box, jumps over the ... | |
| wiring 2 fanlights to operate from 1 switch | 3/20/2007 |
| Q: There are 2 fan lights I am trying to wire, they ran the red black and wire from the one fan to the ... A: Check out www.danswiringpage.com for diagrams on this type of wiring. I can't answer your ... | |
| Move an electrical outlet | 3/20/2007 |
| Q: My basement has electrical outlets at all different heights in my basement, which I find visually ... A: Usually, different heights of outlets means that the wall has obstructions, which prevent the ... | |
| bathroom wiring question | 3/19/2007 |
| Q: My wife has had health problems do to a lack of exhaust fan in the bathroom and the humidity that ... A: Bathroom outlets need to be 20 amp. If you share outlet feed with another bathroom, all you can put ... | |
| Adding a 220 volt subpanel | 3/19/2007 |
| Q: I have a 200 amps main service panel that has only one buss bar for both the common ground (copper ... A: You are required to keep them seperate if you ran 4 wires. That is not your problem. Have you ... | |
| cable size and type ? | 3/19/2007 |
| Q: I am wireing a flat on the second floor, The flat has the following one 9.5kw shower one electric ... A: Since you are using terms that are not common in the US, I believe you are overseas somewhere other ... | |
| Basement Sub-Panel | 3/19/2007 |
| Q: I live in Pueblo West, Co and I would like to install a 125 amp sub-panel in my basement to operate ... A: You should be able to install a 125amp breaker. Check Seimen's website, and look at info for your ... | |
| wire damage | 3/13/2007 |
| Q: Our home wiring appears to have had damage to some of the wiring when the town used a contractor to ... A: Electrical contractors should be able to give you a pretty good idea what the damage is. total ... | |
| Bath exhaust fan question? | 3/13/2007 |
| Q: So, if I understand correctly there is no problem to do this if both fan switches come from the same ... A: Stephen, if they are fed from the same circuit, you would treat the new fan just like a light that ... | |
| No electricity to three lights | 3/13/2007 |
| Q: here's a question for you guys. I have lost electricity to 3 of my ceiling lights in my kitchen, ... A: My guess would be that the wiring to the fixture in the kitchen is bad. Remove the fixture and ... | |
| Do I need conduit? | 3/12/2007 |
| Q: Rick - I am adding a sub panel in a detached garage fed by a 100A breaker in my home's main service ... A: Conduit is required. You should not have more than 4 90 degree in any one run. If you need more, ... | |
| Wall Oven - Will not heat out | 3/12/2007 |
| Q: I just installed a GE Wall oven and the clock, fan and lights work but it will not heat up. This ... A: You will need to verify if you have full voltage. Check at the outlet, using a voltage meter. ... | |
| no power to smoke detectors | 3/11/2007 |
| Q: We recently had to replace an interconnected smoke detector in our 10 year old Colorado house. The ... A: I would look at all the locations where you replaced a detector. Somewhere in those boxes you may ... | |
| Sub-Panel Wiring | 3/11/2007 |
| Q: I am installing a 100amp sub-panel in a detached garage(in Florida). The garage is 100 feet away ... A: The way you have wired this panel is correct, and does not need to be changed, other than the ... | |
| Bathroom GFCI | 3/6/2007 |
| Q: Rick: Thanks for taking the time to answer my question. I am adding a bathroom in my basement ... A: You don't say so, but I take it you want to add the "downstream" outlets in other rooms than the ... | |
| Low Voltage Outdoor Lighting Design | 3/6/2007 |
| Q: Recently had our front yard professionally landscaped. There were a few "unexpecteds" and so took ... A: You might try the website of the manufacturer of the equipment you have. I recently saw an episode ... | |
| new house buy....aluminum vs copper wiring | 3/6/2007 |
| Q: My friend in No. Calif. (lost husband 3 years ago who was electrical engineer)is selling her home ... A: By 1983, most of the issues involving aluminum wires had been resolved. However, the existing ... | |
| General Electrical code questions | 3/6/2007 |
| Q: Rick, I'm in the process of finishing my basement and have a few general code questions to try to ... A: Most inspectors will not gig you on up to 2 cables under 1 staple. You can run a few cables thru ... | |
| tripping breaker | 3/4/2007 |
| Q: when i make breakfast in the morning, i plug in coffee pot and toaster into the same outlet. then i ... A: If you can, relocate one or more of these appliances to a different circuit. You can also try ... | |
| Outlets go out | 3/4/2007 |
| Q: I just moved into a new apartment but the building is kind of old. In the past month, our power has ... A: It sounds like you may be using some heater that is tripping the breakers. Try to find a circuit ... | |
| short in shop heater | 3/3/2007 |
| Q: I just installed a 240 volt shop heater using 10 gauge wire on a 30 amp circuit. When I turn up the ... A: There has to be a short somewhere. double check all the wiring, including the wires to the tstat, ... | |
| need to fix wiring | 3/2/2007 |
| Q: I have a 200 amp service in the house with 100 amp subpanels in 2 detached outbuildings.The problem ... A: The best way would be to install the breakers in your main panel, and feed the 2 outbuildings from ... | |
| bathroom circit | 3/2/2007 |
| Q: in my bathroom my outlet with a breaker on it trips out and wont go back on I've changed it twice ... A: In the past, you were able to have a GFCI outlet in your bathroom that could feed other outlets in ... | |
| Light Fixture heating up | 3/1/2007 |
| Q: I have a high hat light fixture that was working fine for years but now sometimes a perfectly good ... A: This type of fixture has a thermal cut-out built into it, so when there is restricted air flow thru ... | |
| 14/2 cable/ 20 amp breaker | 3/1/2007 |
| Q: While attempting to wire a Hunter bath fan/light combo on 2 switches I discovered that the bath ... A: By code, you are required to have a 20amp circuit feeding bathroom outlets. This would require a ... | |
| subpanel | 2/27/2007 |
| Q: I have 200 amp main panel and want to add 100 amp subpanel about 75' feet away. The wire will be in ... A: Q1: I suggest you use individual wires instead of the cable. Some cables are not allowed in ... | |
| Aluminum Wire | 2/27/2007 |
| Q: Can I use aluminum wire for and electric range? A: Yes you can, if the wire guage is the correct size for the range unit. Install the wire according ... | |
| two switches one light | 2/26/2007 |
| Q: much help. Another question? At the same house (1952) there is an exposed elec wire in the ... A: Josh, it could be showing low voltage for a couple of reasons. You may have lost your neutral, or ... | |
| Alluminum wire | 2/26/2007 |
| Q: We all ready have three runs of 2 inch ridged under the concrete. We had planned on using 4 ought ... A: Bruce, there is a code exception that allows #4/0 AL to be used for a single family dwelling, at ... | |
| Main Braker Problem | 2/24/2007 |
| Q: I run a (70 year old) church campground, we have a 200 amp main breaker box.. Last year we changed ... A: Since this is a public campground, I suggest you contact a local electrician to see if there is ... | |
| tapping off a 20 amp receptacle | 2/24/2007 |
| Q: I have a 20 amp receptacle that allows wires to be pushed in then tightened down with a screw. Each ... A: There are some outlets that have a termination setup like you explain, but to be sure you need to ... | |
| two switches one light | 2/23/2007 |
| Q: Currently i have a light in my kitchen controlled by one switch. I live in an old house (1952) and ... A: The easiest way would be to run a 3-wire cable from the existing switch to the new switch location. ... | |
| Alluminum wire | 2/22/2007 |
| Q: We are building an addition to a small rural school in Arkansas. The architect messed up on the ... A: The NEC does not forbid the use of aluminum wiring inside of a building, as long as the insulation ... | |
| track lights | 2/22/2007 |
| Q: Is it OK to mount track lights outside under the eaves where it would be protected from the ... A: The code says that you cannot install track lighting in damp or wet locations. By code, a damp ... | |
| Mounting a Light Fixture to ceiling | 2/21/2007 |
| Q: I did purchase a canopy but what is a mounting strap? I now understand that I can connect the black ... A: Sheryl, the mounting strap is a flat metallic piece that directly attaches to the ceiling box, and ... | |
| changing fuse boxin house | 2/21/2007 |
| Q: are box get rain in it so i am puting a new box in need codes A: If you don't know the codes, then you should hire this done, as there are numerous situations that ... | |
| 220v to 110 v | 2/21/2007 |
| Q: Would it be okay to run a line from one of the two 220v leads to the hot on the 110, and then ground ... A: Luke, there are many ways to hook up electricity to work, but the difference is when you want it to ... | |
| 240 question | 2/19/2007 |
| Q: I want to utilize an unused 240 volt welder outlet in my garage to wire a hot tub(50 amp 240 volt ... A: No the existing wiring is ok for a true 240v load, which means it does not need the neutral. That ... | |
| wiring | 2/19/2007 |
| Q: i ran power feed wire and a 3 way wire into a light box in ceiling. I RAN THE 3 WAY from ceiling ... A: 2-wire Power feed = C1 3-wire cable = C2 2nd light 2-wire cable = C3 2nd outlet cable = C4 switch ... | |
| Mounting a Light Fixture to ceiling | 2/19/2007 |
| Q: I would like to know if I can convert a light fixture I purchased that was meant to be mounted to ... A: In order to mount this fixture to a ceiling box, you have to have the correct approved hardware, ... | |
| grounding | 2/18/2007 |
| Q: We put an addition on the house. The electrical did not pass inspection because there was no ground ... A: If your interior piping is copper, then this piping does need to be connected via a grounding ... | |
| help | 2/18/2007 |
| Q: I have an old 2 way switch that needs replaced. How do i connect the new swith to the old wiring. ... A: I am assumming that you mean the light can be controlled by 2 different switch. This setup is ... | |
| Romex Wiring Routing in Attic | 2/18/2007 |
| Q: I'll be wiring my workshop under the guidance of the electrical sub that's doing our new house. I've ... A: If this attic is not used for storage, then you can run it along the top of the joists, but either ... | |
| Pool heaters | 2/16/2007 |
| Q: Does the circuit to a pool heater in a single family home needs to be in conduit, (2005 NEC Code ). A: I don't have my code book with me this long weekend, so I suggest you look for this rule in Article ... | |
| mis-wiring of receptacle | 2/15/2007 |
| Q: I found a receptacle that was so worn that the blades on a plug-in would not consistently ... A: It is a code violation to tie a neutral (or grounded) conductor to the equipment grounding conductor ... | |
| Touch Control Lamps | 2/13/2007 |
| Q: I have a touch control lamp, but I want to have it controlled by a wall switch. Is there anyway to ... A: If you open up the base of the lamp, there should be a small box which is connected to the metal ... | |
| Converting a 3-wire prong plug to a 2-wire prong plug | 2/12/2007 |
| Q: What are the dangers in doing this? My florescent shop light for the basement has a grounded 3 ... A: If a device has a 3-prong cord on it, it needs to be connected to a 3-wire outlet. Do not cut the ... | |
| short in a wire | 2/11/2007 |
| Q: I had new paneling and cabinets put up and i have no contac toa a vent a hood or the outlet. We ... A: If you have damaged a wire, then you can either replace that wire, which would require removing the ... | |
| Sub amperage | 2/10/2007 |
| Q: If a Sub is feed off of a 100 amp main panel, Is there a max amperage I can use for the sub panel? ... A: The panel rating can be any size, up to 100 amp, with a correct sized breaker. If you go with a ... | |
| Panel over a duplex outlet | 2/10/2007 |
| Q: I discovered that someone had added 'judges panels' over drywall -- and left the duplex boxes ... A: The product is called a spark shield, and is made by a bunch of different companies. Arlington ... | |
| Outlet Wiring | 2/9/2007 |
| Q: which I will have inspected. The only thing I need to install is outlets for the family room and I ... A: The NEC does not have requirements for height of outlets. Normally it is set to a common height to ... | |
| 220 outdoor | 2/9/2007 |
| Q: My neighbor and I would like to put a hookup for our RVs outdoors. His is 220v 50A and mine is 110v ... A: The 50amp RV need to have a 3-pole, 4-wire grounding type outlet rated 50 amps, 125/250vac. For ... | |
| Connecting a garage heater to electrical panel for new install. | 2/9/2007 |
| Q: I have a Marley Engeneered Products MUH-35C heater. I am looking to add a new circuit to my ... A: I would think by using #10 wire, and a 30amp breaker, you would be good to go. Wire the two hots ... | |
| two rooms that wont work | 2/7/2007 |
| Q: I live in a very old house. A couple of nights ago I was sitting in the living room on my laptop ... A: Depending on the age fo your wiring, you may have just tripped a gfci outlet, or, if it has been ... | |
| Loading on a 20amp 120V circuit | 2/6/2007 |
| Q: How many load devices are allowed on a 20A 120v circuit. The application is for 4 convenience ... A: For residences, there is no limit placed on this type of circuit. For commercial you are limited to ... | |
| flat plug for horizontal outlet | 2/4/2007 |
| Q: I need a flat plug for horizontal outlet how do I get this? A: I'm not sure what you are asking. If you need an cord that has a flat face on the male plug, you ... | |
| Remote Switches | 2/4/2007 |
| Q: My dad would never use anything that was not UL approved. I recently purchase three, two-component ... A: Many old-timers have the same thoughts about this as your dad. UL used to be the only testing ... | |
| wall socket wiring | 2/1/2007 |
| Q: Rick, I have 8 outlets, 5 in garage and 3 outside wall that are on one breaker. They also are ... A: Since these outlets are protected by a gfci, and it is not tripping, then you don't have a situation ... | |
| wiring a switch for ceiling fan/light kit | 1/31/2007 |
| Q: we have a ceiling fan that we added a light kit to. The original ceiling fan has a circular control ... A: The orginial switch can be replaced with a single pole switch, your regular type of light switch. ... | |
| 220/240 wiring at the panel - ground ? | 1/30/2007 |
| Q: as part of a kitchen remodeling I had 2 disconnect 2 220 appliances and add 2 for a total of 4. My ... A: While a 4-wire cable is preferred over a 3-wire cable and a seperate groudning conductor, it is ... | |
| Sudden High Electric Bill | 1/29/2007 |
| Q: I just received and electric bill that shows my comsumption has gone up from about 50 kw to 120 kw ... A: If you suspect that the electrician may have done something to cause this, you can try tp see if you ... | |
| Stray Voltage | 1/29/2007 |
| Q: I rewired one of the lighting circuits in my house to eliminate some old aluminum wiring. The new ... A: I think you have hit upon the answer, when you say something about the current available. This is ... | |
| NEC code ref. | 1/29/2007 |
| Q: What part of the code addresses lack of switches near entrances, and the use of a circuit breaker as ... A: The code (National Electrical Code, 2005) does not address location of switches, it just says you ... | |
| AMP load on 6-2 w/g wire | 1/29/2007 |
| Q: ...I have an air compressor running off of a 220v line I added in my garage.....I had used a small ... A: First off, if this garge is attached to your home, then you did not use the correct wire if you want ... | |
| electrical surges and lights dimming and brightining | 1/28/2007 |
| Q: when i turn on the microwave, it starts normal then goes very low and the fridge loses power and the ... A: More likely the problems has to do with a loose or broken neutral wire on your incoming electrical ... | |
| Three phase wiring revisited | 1/27/2007 |
| Q: I have asked Robert Wilbur and J. Cook questions about a 3 phase wiring situation. Each time I have ... A: Sorry for the delay in getting back to you. I needed my codebook to help answer this question, and, ... | |
| wire size | 1/27/2007 |
| Q: Is it possible to install or use to large a gauge wire for a load? I know too small is not good. Is ... A: When using a larger wire, you have to be carefull that the wire is not too large to fit the ... | |
| oven & cooktop wiring | 1/27/2007 |
| Q: This is the info "OVEN" 3 wire-120-240 60hz ac only kilowatts 208 volts 3.4 kilowatts 240 volts ... A: Sorry for the delay in getting back to you. I did not have my codebook with me over the weekend, ... | |
| Replaced switch/outlet now doesnt work | 1/26/2007 |
| Q: I have been successful in relacing other outlets and switches in the house but two rooms upstairs ... A: Sometimes the metal link on the hot side of the outlet was removed to allow the outlet to be used ... | |
| adding outlets | 1/26/2007 |
| Q: I am adding receptacles in the attic area over the garage with access to backside of existing ... A: You should make your splices in a box, either the existing one, or by installing a new one, then ... | |
| Ground wire | 1/25/2007 |
| Q: I recently had an inspection of my house and the inspector said the the ground wire from the base of ... A: Yes, attach the wire to the wall surface using staples (the type used for cable) or using the nylon ... | |
| electric furnace hook up | 1/25/2007 |
| Q: I am planning on installing an electric furnace 220v. I am a little confused on what size wire to ... A: usually the nameplate of an electric load such as this will give you all the necessary information. ... | |
| pot lighting | 1/24/2007 |
| Q: i am finishing my basement and I am putting 8 pot lights in the ceiling. These are the small halogen ... A: The switch will need to be installed ahead of your loads, in order to kill the power to the lights. ... | |
| Basement/GFCI question | 1/24/2007 |
| Q: I have a house built in 95, and I am finishing the basement. It is only about 600 sq ft, so there ... A: By code, the bathroom circuit can't feed other rooms, so that is out. If there is no way to add ... | |
| I run out of time, so I couldn't read your answer | 1/24/2007 |
| Q: Yes you already did answere this question for me before, but I was out of town and went I came back ... A: Lee, I wondered why you resubmitted the question. You have hit on the major difference between the ... | |
| Rats and Wiring | 1/23/2007 |
| Q: This is probably the first question you've been asked like this, but hear-goes. I live in an old ... A: This is a real problem. When the rodents chew thru the insulation, they will sometimes come into ... | |
| Trouble with a GFI rewire | 1/22/2007 |
| Q: I was updating my kitchen and switched out a GFI outlet. The outlet is in the middle of a circuit ... A: I suggest you double check the wiring of the gfci, and match it to your instructions. Make sure ... | |
| Voltage increase with load | 1/21/2007 |
| Q: When I turn on a motor, like the garbage disposal, all the lights in the house brighten. I checked ... A: It sounds like you may have a loose or broken neutral wire feeding your electrical service. Call ... | |
| Main panel upgrade | 1/21/2007 |
| Q: Main Panel Upgrade: Hello, I am interested in your method of upgrading a main panel i.e. ... A: You have hit upon the biggest problem with upgrading a residential service. You should visit with ... | |
| Subpanel + Air Compressor Wiring | 1/20/2007 |
| Q: I have 150A main service panel in the garage. I plan on running 6-3 w/ ground to a 60A subpanel a ... A: Each individual wire has an amp rating. A #10 wire is for use with a 30 amp breaker. A 240v load ... | |
| Bonding Residential Services | 1/19/2007 |
| Q: Here in Corinth, TX many contractors are using a PVC nipple between the meter can and panel. We have ... A: As long as the grounding electrode conductor connects to the supply neutral, that neutral is ... | |
| wiring diagram for a fuse box | 1/18/2007 |
| Q: in a fuse box in an older house with a two wire cable {no ground} where does the 2 wires connect i ... A: I don't follow what you want to do. Are you adding another circuit to this fusebox? You will ... | |
| What is the different of these two | 1/18/2007 |
| Q: I am a new journeyman electrician and I just finish a job installing a 400W MH ballast in a carwash ... A: I would say that you have covered the 2 main differences between the different types of fixtures. ... | |
| grounding subpanel | 1/18/2007 |
| Q: I added a large attached garage to my house. The house has a 200 amp meter panel 60' away. I fed ... A: If this garage is attached to your home, then the inspector is correct. You need 4 wires, and you ... | |
| electrical | 1/18/2007 |
| Q: Rick, I have a room with two rocker-type light switches side-by-side at the entranceway controlling ... A: It sounds like you may have some loose wiring, possibly in the fixtures. double check all those, as ... | |
| under cabinet lighting | 1/16/2007 |
| Q: I have three 12V, undercabinet, halogen puck lights that are connected to the same transformer and ... A: In order to run cables thru the wall, you will need to use an approved cable, such as NM-B (Romex), ... | |
| Adding service panel | 1/16/2007 |
| Q: I've been browsing the site looking for an answer to this and just haven't come across "the" answer, ... A: You could replace the disconnect with a 200amp breaker panel, and install one 100amp breaker to feed ... | |
| Running main service feed too short and need a splice | 1/15/2007 |
| Q: Rick, Although this is not quite wiring inside the home, I have a question regarding my situation. ... A: I don't have any to recommend, but visit this forum ... | |
| Replacement light bulbs | 1/12/2007 |
| Q: If I have a lamp that has a maximum rating for a 60 watt incandescent light bulb, can I replace it ... A: You won't have a 75 or 100watt rated fluorescent lamp. You will have a 20watt or larger rated lamp. ... | |
| 110v/220v | 1/11/2007 |
| Q: I have 2 outlets together, each(110v), how would I go to change them to 220v? Do I need to rewire ... A: To wire a 220v outlet (without a neutral), you will need to have 2 insulated wires along with either ... | |
| Cable TV wiring | 1/11/2007 |
| Q: one follow up. I'm running a 70A sub-panel to my basement and some questions. The sub-panel ... A: This panel is a true subpanel, and you will be required to keep the neutrals and grounds seperated ... | |
| Cable TV wiring | 1/10/2007 |
| Q: I am wiring my basement and I want to put some cable tv outlets in, but am unsure how to do so. ... A: There are 2 schools of thought on this. One is to run seperate lines from each outlet to a common ... | |
| Light Fixtures | 1/10/2007 |
| Q: I'm finishing my basement and have been going back and forth with what I want to do for lighting. ... A: Most track light systems have a surface mount connection box, where you just connect the cable that ... | |
| theory | 1/10/2007 |
| Q: what is the difference between voltage and current? A: I suggest you take a electrical theory course if you really want to know what the difference is. ... | |
| 500' Service Split From The Meter Pedestal | 1/9/2007 |
| Q: I just bought an Amish built home. The house is almost 500' from the road. I am installing 200amp ... A: I recommend using a breaker panel instead of the disconnect, under the meter. This way you can ... | |
| 110 outletsfor room addition | 1/2/2007 |
| Q: how many 110 outlets can i use with 20 amp breaker A: In dwelling units, the number is unlimited. The rule of thumb is around 10 for a 20 amp circuit, ... | |
| Open Neutral condition | 1/1/2007 |
| Q: I had a fluorescent lamp above my washer and dryer that simply stopped working about 2 weeks ago. I ... A: This is a hazardous situation, so I suggest you contact your power supplier right away, and have ... | |
| Are busses dedicated in the Main panel | 1/1/2007 |
| Q: 1. Can you place neutral wires on the grounding buss and vice versa in the Main panel? I have read ... A: I'm snowed in at my house (30+ in 2 days) so I can't give you code referrences, but if the panel is ... | |
| wiring multiple outlets | 1/1/2007 |
| Q: What do you mean by pigtails?Is it standard practice to wire outlets by jumping off another outlet, ... A: A pigtail is trade slang for a short piece (6") of insulated wire, connected at one end to the ... | |
| heating element | 12/31/2006 |
| Q: i have a heating element that claimed to run on 220V by the store owner since the product has no ... A: A true 220v load does not require a neutral connection. Using electrical equipment without the ... | |
| wiring an on off light switch and power outlet | 12/30/2006 |
| Q: I have power to an overhead light in a closet with a pull chain switch on the fixture. How can I ... A: Take a look at www.danswiringpage.com for great diagrams on this type of wiring. If you can, run a ... | |
| Wiring a three way dimmer sw | 12/30/2006 |
| Q: Rick, My question is, what is the color code to replace a three way sw. with a 3 way dimmer sw. The ... A: Hopefully you have not removed the wiring from the old switch yet. If you have not, then find out ... | |
| duplex wiring question | 12/30/2006 |
| Q: I hope you can help me. I have 3 duplexes on one wall that are wired very strangely. As you look ... A: It sounds like these outlets have been replaced, removing an ungrounded outlet and installing a ... | |
| wall oven | 12/29/2006 |
| Q: I am replacing an old oven with a new double wall oven. I have 30 Amp svc on it. At the junction ... A: This used to be the standard way of wiring a range. The new way is to use four wires, which could ... | |
| jacuzzi wiring | 12/28/2006 |
| Q: I'm going to install a Jacuzzi. I have a spool of 8/3 wire. Can that be used for this job? If not ... A: To wire your tub, you will need to use wire and breakers requested by the manufacturer. There ... | |
| Outlet melting | 12/27/2006 |
| Q: I read your article from 9/26/2005. I had a similar problem with a outlet melt down.The side with ... A: Hopefully your electrician used pigtails to connect the wiring to the outlets, which means that ... | |
| Lights go dim | 12/27/2006 |
| Q: So if I understand, one option would be to see if the power company can give me higher amp service ... A: You could ask the power company to check to see if the supply transformer is overloaded, which could ... | |
| Lights go dim | 12/26/2006 |
| Q: I bought a large house with three AC units. Everything in the house works fine. But when the AC ... A: Every motor draws around 6 times more amps at startup than when it is running. You will see a ... | |
| water leak | 12/23/2006 |
| Q: I have water leaking into the the electrical box that leads from my basement to a detached garage. ... A: If is alot of water, then the underground conduit has some openeing, which allows the water to seep ... | |
| 220V Switch Idea | 12/22/2006 |
| Q: Instead of running two 220V circuit to operate two vehicle lifts in our reisendtial garage I would ... A: You can do this. Look for a double pole, double throw with center off switch, which should be alot ... | |
| wire size for air handler | 12/20/2006 |
| Q: ! i have a question and i am getting multiple opinions on.. I have a 25kw air handler and was told ... A: There should be an electrical nameplate on the unit. Usually about 3" X 5", and viewable from the ... | |
| Breakers | 12/20/2006 |
| Q: Under what circumstances would the main service breaker kick and nothing else? I do have a fair ... A: there are only 2 reasons breakers trip, overload and short. If you have alot of load spread out ... | |
| baffling old 3-way switch? | 12/19/2006 |
| Q: I have two 3-way switches that connect to a ceiling fan/light in a 1925 house. We moved in 6 months ... A: I think there could be a way to see measurable voltage (not current) on 2 seperate wires in 2 ... | |
| temprature | 12/18/2006 |
| Q: I have a 20A circuit with 12 gauge wiring and a 12 gauge extension cord powering many Christmas ... A: the electrical code says you can have a 20amp flow on a #12 wire, for continuious use of 3 hours or ... | |
| subpanel / AC disconnect | 12/16/2006 |
| Q: I would like to use the 30amp that is currently going to my AC disconnect for Christmas light during ... A: If you have 4 wires (2 hots, 1 neutral, and 1 ground) in the cable, then you can install a panel as ... | |
| light fixture wiring, ground wire? snapped | 12/15/2006 |
| Q: when unscrewing the lightbulb fixture 1 of three wires--the copper wire (ground wire?) snapped ... A: I'm not following your question very well. Are you saying that you had some dead outlets after this ... | |
| Local Electrical Codes | 12/13/2006 |
| Q: I have read two books regarding electrical wiring in the home, and both stated it is legal for the ... A: Some areas do allow homeowners to pull their own permit, and do the wiring. usually there is some ... | |
| 2 gang outlet wiring | 12/12/2006 |
| Q: I am wiring an addition and I am ending a circuit with a 2 gang outlet box. It is violation the NEC ... A: I'm not sure what you mean by series, but if you want to connect your incoming black wire to one of ... | |
| Welder hook up in garage | 12/11/2006 |
| Q: I just purchased a used Miller 351 Syncrowave welder for my garage. After checking Miller Electrics ... A: If your panel is large enough to handle the breaker needed to feed this welder, I would suggest you ... | |
| wall socket hot to touch | 12/11/2006 |
| Q: Came home to a smell. It was from a wall socket. The socket was hot to the touch. I turned off the ... A: It sounds like you may have a loose connection where the wiring connects to this outlet. With ... | |
| Installing 115V Reverse Cycle AC/Heat | 12/8/2006 |
| Q: I recently purchased a Fedders reverse cycle AC/Heat window unit for my detached garage. The specs ... A: #1: No issue here. #2: When heat unit is on, it will pull around 12 amps. On a 15 amp circuit, if ... | |
| Receptacle question | 12/7/2006 |
| Q: Dryer runs but element doesn't heat. i am told that this mus be because the receptacle is 110v ... A: You said both legs read 110v. Was this reading to each other, or to a 3rd wire, the ground? If you ... | |
| home standby generator | 12/7/2006 |
| Q: i live in colorado also. and i am wondering what kind of code there is on standby generators? like ... A: As far as the pad and distances, you should check with your local building inspector. The ... | |
| fire alarms | 12/6/2006 |
| Q: I have a question about fire alarm circuits. I am a Master Electrician in Arkansas, and should know ... A: In looking at the State's website, you are required to be licensed to install fire alarm systems. I ... | |
| home electrics | 12/5/2006 |
| Q: Since moving into my new home in August I have noticed that our lights dim intermitently but ... A: First off you can try changing the lamps to a higher grade of lamp. The cheaper ones will show ... | |
| outlet insulation | 12/5/2006 |
| Q: I am noticing alot of cold air coming through my outlet holes and by my light switches. I have put ... A: Pluging this hole probably won't help. You need to go to the top of the wall and plug the hole ... | |
| Resetting Breaker | 12/4/2006 |
| Q: Rick, we had a space heater and hair dryer both plugged into a bathroom outlet. The heater was ... A: It is possible you damaged the breaker, but don't rush out to buy one yet. Unplug everything from ... | |
| convert a draw | 12/4/2006 |
| Q: I'm woundering how to convert a draw on a gas furnice that when running uses 1500 amps. how do a ... A: First off, kwh is what the power company uses to bill you. You will need to know what your rate is ... | |
| Reverse polarity, issue? | 12/3/2006 |
| Q: I am in the process of buying a an older house and the inspector said alot of the electrical outlets ... A: The inspector is correct, this could cause alot of problems. Consider this case. Your TV is ... | |
| hooking up a 220v outlet for electric dryer | 12/3/2006 |
| Q: I am trying to install a new 220v outlet for my electric dryer. Can you tell me which wires go ... A: Normally, the 2 hot wires are the black and red wires, with the other wire as the ground. Since the ... | |
| night light stuck in outlet | 12/2/2006 |
| Q: My nightlight is stuck in the outlet. When we pull on it the whole cover moves. Any suggestions? A: Turn off the power to this outlet, then wiggle it sideways while pulling it out. If it breaks, then ... | |
| multiple circuits feeding a rtu | 12/1/2006 |
| Q: I'm an HVAC contractor and I have a job that has roof top units that are fed by two circuits; one ... A: One place to connect one set of wires to, huh? If the rating of the unit is the same as one of the ... | |
| wiring question | 12/1/2006 |
| Q: we got new ones in, but we don't know how to wire them up. we know 220 is no joke. can i get a ... A: The old element should have had only 2 wires connecting it, so these should connect to the new one ... | |
| BURY ELECTRICAL WIRING | 11/30/2006 |
| Q: I bought a piece of vacant property and would like to bury the power cable from the power companys ... A: You should check with the local inspector and your power supplier to find out these details. Some ... | |
| subpanel | 11/30/2006 |
| Q: I bought my house over 8 yrs ago. An electician was the previous owner. He had installed a subpanel ... A: If the panel is rated 30amps or less, then you should run #10 copper wires to it. If over 30amps ... | |
| Ground wire | 11/30/2006 |
| Q: My friend's home was damaged by fire recently the fire started at the breaker box, the light company ... A: The groudning electrode conductor has to be terminated inside of either the meter socket housing or ... | |
| Blowing breakers | 11/30/2006 |
| Q: I bought a home 5 years ago, first time home buyers restrictions was that all the old junction boxes ... A: It should have been at least mentioned that there were not multiple breakers for these loads. ... | |
| OVERHEAD LIGHTS | 11/29/2006 |
| Q: I BOUGHT A LIGHT THAT HANGS FROM THE CEILING. I WANTED TO REPLACE SOME EXISTING LIGHTS THAT ARE ... A: Normally, ceiling swag lights will have a canopy that will cover the ceiling box, and the type of ... | |
| popping/crackling light fixture/ceiling fan | 11/29/2006 |
| Q: We bought our house new and have lived in it for 9 months. All the light fixtures/ceiling fans make ... A: You can try shutting off the breaker that feeds these noisy fixtures. If the sounds stop, then it ... | |
| Generator hook up | 11/28/2006 |
| Q: Got a great deal on a 6250 watt, 240 volt generator, and then realized to wire it in legally to the ... A: Great links. I did not know that these were available. I don't have any links to share, but which ... | |
| burnt ground in electric meter socket | 11/28/2006 |
| Q: what causes the ground to be burnt in the electric meter socket. We called the electric company ... A: If this was indeed the ground that was burnt, then you have some major problem within your ... | |
| dryer pigtail--30 amp, 4 vs 3 prong | 11/22/2006 |
| Q: I have a dryer with a traditional 3-prong pigtail. My outlet has a 4-prong outlet. I thought it ... A: You will have to keep the outlet 4-wire, and install a 4-wire cord. If the breaker is a 30amp ... | |
| Installing an electric cooktop | 11/22/2006 |
| Q: ok, I am assuming that the white/red connection would be that hots?Hello, I am replacing my electric ... A: Gary, In your circuit from the breaker, you should have 2 hots, on the black wire and on the white ... | |
| Service from home to barn | 11/21/2006 |
| Q: I need to run service from the main service panel in my home to a 100 amp main service panel in the ... A: 100amp breaker at main, 100amp rated wires (#2 copper ok), 100amp rated panel in barn. Run 3 ... | |
| Main Home Electrical Panel | 11/21/2006 |
| Q: Since upgrading our main from 60 amp service to 200 amp service we have added a second floor ... A: One source was the inspector. You could have asked him, and possibly he could have given you some ... | |
| Outlets | 11/21/2006 |
| Q: There are three outlets on a wall .the one in the middle shows that it has power but light fixtures ... A: It looks, from your description, like you may have a loose wire in one of the outlets. turn the ... | |
| grounding a wirlpool motor when house has all plastic plumbing pipe | 11/20/2006 |
| Q: A house that our company wired was roughed before the plumbing and when we got to the finish we ... A: You are correct in saying that you will have to fish the wire in. Run it all the way back to your ... | |
| Sub Panel | 11/20/2006 |
| Q: I have a brand new/1 year old house with a Homeline 200A service that has only 2 available spaces ... A: You cannot double lug wires, so that option is out. You should be able to find a 100amp, 2-pole ... | |
| ele | 11/20/2006 |
| Q: lights dimming 3sec than 1or 2mims ok A: If the lights dim till they are almost out, then you should call in someone to look at your ... | |
| spotlight wiring | 11/19/2006 |
| Q: I moved into my home a year ago and I'm a single lady so don't know too much about wiring. I have a ... A: It sounds to me like you may have tripped a breaker. Some homes have special breakers, called AFCI ... | |
| circuit breaker making a huming noises | 11/19/2006 |
| Q: the breaker for our master b/room tripped. I reset the breaker but when u turn the light switch on ... A: You should have this checked out by a qualified electrician. The breaker feeding this circuit ... | |
| cable stacker ok for horizontal runs | 11/18/2006 |
| Q: I'm working on refinishing my basement. I will be putting sheetrock on an unfinished wall and ... A: I would think you could use these supports as you want to. You will need to look at the ... | |
| RECESS LIGHTING | 11/17/2006 |
| Q: I AM WORKING IN MY LIVING ROOM. I WANT TO PUT RECESS LIGHT ON THE CEALING BUT THERE IS NOT POWER ON ... A: Harold, there is alot of different methods for running cables in unaccessible areas, but most of ... | |
| meter quick disconnect | 11/17/2006 |
| Q: I have an outside breaker by my meter labeled quick disconnect. Can you tell me if this breaker ... A: I would not be able to answer this without looking at it. If you need to, you could trip it and ... | |
| OUTLET SPACING | 11/16/2006 |
| Q: The book I have says you must have an outlet every 12 along perimeter, OR a 6' cord has to be able ... A: Randy, You say: " The book I have says you must have an outlet every 12 along perimeter, OR a 6' ... | |
| Light Stwitch Removal | 11/16/2006 |
| Q: I just removed a decorative wall in my kitchen that had one of two switches that controled our light ... A: When you put the unwanted cable in the box (you have to leave it accessible), tie the wire that was ... | |
| OUTLET SPACING | 11/15/2006 |
| Q: No one has explained this to me clearly. Is an outlet required every 12'? If there is a doorway, you ... A: In most rooms (not the kitchen, tho), you have to have one outlet within 6' of any door, on both ... | |
| generator hook up | 11/15/2006 |
| Q: i have recently been looking at some houses to buy and the electric meters have been pulled. i have ... A: You could make a cord with a male plug which would match your generator outlet, and with alligator ... | |
| european to U.S. | 11/15/2006 |
| Q: I have a "light sculpture" that I am installing in a store window. It was sent from France and is ... A: I don't have any experience in converting these two systems, but the instructions should be able to ... | |
| Breaker trips when light in turned off | 11/15/2006 |
| Q: I have bought an older home and am remodeling. I've changed light fixtures for years, but have run ... A: I'm afraid I don't have any answers as to why the breaker trips when the switch is moved to the off ... | |
| Covering knob & tube wiring | 11/14/2006 |
| Q: I have an old house with an attic that has knob and tube wiring still going to the ceiling fixtures ... A: The one thing you want to watch out for is loose splices, which can cause heat. If this splice is ... | |
| House wiring | 11/14/2006 |
| Q: We are having a house built that is almost complete i.e they are painting the inside. The ... A: Man, what bad luck. Using a splice box, installed correctly, and terminated correctly, will meet ... | |
| Changing a 220 from 3 to 4 prong | 11/13/2006 |
| Q: I recently bought a stackable washer and dryer. The Plug was a 4 prong so I purchased the new outlet ... A: What you have is an older 3-wire circuit, where the ground is being used as a neutral, and both the ... | |
| wiring in the home | 11/13/2006 |
| Q: I am installing new wire to a new junction box where old wiring from the upstairs will connect to ... A: You will need to find the 1st box upstairs, where this 3-wire cable is connected to. You need to ... | |
| Loading 200amp service panels | 11/12/2006 |
| Q: How many circut breakes can you use in 200 amp panel? House hold wiring 12/2 wire 2 220. How many ... A: Yes you can any number of breakers, regardless of breaker amp total. The code has a limit of 42 ... | |
| Recessed Lighting | 11/12/2006 |
| Q: By placing a recessed can on a vertical wall (on its side)does that void any warranty? Also is that ... A: You will need to check with the manufacturer to see about warranty issues. Can you physically do ... | |
| Electrical jack out | 11/12/2006 |
| Q: In putting up holiday decorations, we plugged in a prelit Xmas tree in the same jack wih the TV last ... A: Let me get this straight. One half of an outlet is working ok, but the other half is not. Is this ... | |
| Sub-Panel Install | 11/11/2006 |
| Q: I currently have a detached garage without power. I wish to install a subpanel in this garage with 2 ... A: If you are running 240v out to the garage, then I suggest you use the 6-3, and seperate the neutrals ... | |
| 3 way switch | 11/10/2006 |
| Q: I was trying to connect a ceiling fan, I opened the electrical box to find out that the ceiling ... A: You don't want to use a 3-way switch, this is for lights that can be turned on/off at 2 different ... | |
| Need help wiring a new outlet for a 220V Dryer | 11/10/2006 |
| Q: I need help wiring a new outlet for a 220V Dryer machine. First of all, do I use dual breaker or ... A: In order to run power to a 220v load, you need two hot wires, a neutral wire, and a grounding wire, ... | |
| bedroom lights not working | 11/9/2006 |
| Q: I live in a three bedroom ranch and currently my 3 bedrooms have no power but the rest of the house ... A: Could you possibly have a GFCI outlet ahead of these rooms? Look for a tripped gfci outlet in ... | |
| faulty light switch? | 11/9/2006 |
| Q: I have a few wall switches in my newly built home (4 years) that buzz when flipping the switch - if ... A: It sounds like a cheap brand of wall switch. You might want to install a higher grade of switch, ... | |
| Wiring a Switch | 11/9/2006 |
| Q: I wired a switch that controls one of 3 receptacles in a bedroom. The switch is at the end of a ... A: You could be reading bleed thru voltage from the switch, which probably is not a bad thing. You can ... | |
| locating a receptacle under a window | 11/8/2006 |
| Q: I have to move a receptacle. I'd like to move it under a window. Is this against code anywhere ... A: According to the NEC, you can have an outlet under a window. If you, by moving the outlet, create a ... | |
| What makes more sense here? | 11/8/2006 |
| Q: We need to upgrade our electrical panel to accomodate a new HVAC system we're buying. Our 2500 sq ... A: I can't give you an answer as to why he wantes to move the service, unless by upgrading it at it's ... | |
| Outside Branch Circuits | 11/8/2006 |
| Q: I have a grounding question. I need to provide separate 120 volt circuits to a Gazebo and a Water ... A: No special grounding will be required, other than the metal box at the outlet will need to be tied ... | |
| How many | 11/7/2006 |
| Q: Well how does the code figure the loading on a particular circuit? Obviously lights you can find by ... A: For the bathroom, you have a couple of options, but in your case, I suggest you run a seperate 20 ... | |
| How many "things" per circuit | 11/6/2006 |
| Q: How should I determine the number of circuits that I need? I am working on a plan for my basement ... A: The code says you can put an unlimited number of lights and outlets on a circuit, unless the circuit ... | |
| Generator amps | 11/6/2006 |
| Q: Rick: I have an 8000 watt 30 amp generator(13,500 starting capacity) and plan to use no more that ... A: To figure amps, you just divide watts by voltage. With this info, I would say that you are "good to ... | |
| price cost | 11/5/2006 |
| Q: how much more expensive is it to wire up 3 phase into a commercial establishment than to wire up 2 ... A: This is a question for your electrical contractor, and your electric supplier. Cost differ across ... | |
| Upgrading service | 11/4/2006 |
| Q: Last year I replaced my 100 service panel with a 200 amp service panel. I didn't increase the load ... A: #4/0 aluminum, or #2/0 copper will work for this (the 4th wire, the equipment grounding conductor, ... | |
| Running wire down exsisting wall | 11/4/2006 |
| Q: I got that to the new box, how do I gain access to the old box to tap into. It has a box that is ... A: Don, If there is anyway to get power from the attic, I would suggest you tie in up there. If not, ... | |
| arc fault & alum wire | 11/3/2006 |
| Q: would arc fault breakers be a safe alternative to rewiring a house with alum wire? A: AFCI usage would help, but it would not be the complete answer to a home that was wired in aluminum. ... | |
| 2-pole circuit breakers | 11/3/2006 |
| Q: Are there any restrictions to the number of 2-pole circuit breakers that can be used in a box? Is ... A: Most manufacturers specify how many half-sized breakers you can install, and some eevn make it ... | |
| Running wire down exsisting wall | 11/3/2006 |
| Q: I am adding an outlet behind a wall mounted TV. I need to tap off an outlet,then up the attic and ... A: Normally, you would drill a hole in the plate above the desired location. Verify that this will be ... | |
| dryer connection | 11/3/2006 |
| Q: I have a 4 prong dryer connection. There is one green wire and one white wire hanging from the back ... A: Usually the green wire in the cord connects to the green of the dryer, and attaches to the chassis. ... | |
| How to wire receptacles | 11/2/2006 |
| Q: I want to wire two duplex receptacles in a double sized box. Would you be able to send me a diagram ... A: The normal way of doing this is to wire each terminal on each device with a short (6") pigtail. ... | |
| Ground Rod in Ledge Rock | 11/2/2006 |
| Q: OK, here's one. I have a deteched barn sitting on a short (30") concrete footing/wall on top of ... A: Code does allow you to drive the rod in at a 45 degree angle, if you hit rock and can't drive it in ... | |
| New load center? | 11/2/2006 |
| Q: i just installed a new load center and every thing is recieveing power but any thing that draws more ... A: It sounds like you may not have wired the power to this load center correctly, or your breakers are ... | |
| wire, conduit size | 11/1/2006 |
| Q: What size wire to run a 100 amp sub panel 100 feet away? What size rigid plastic conduit is needed? ... A: For a subpanel, rated 100 amps, you will need #3 copper, or #1 aluminum. For 3 (three) #3 wires ... | |
| Wiring a tankless hot water heater | 11/1/2006 |
| Q: I'm wiring a tankless hwh that draws a max of 49 amps @ 220 v. What gauge wire should I use? Is ... A: The code book contains a table that lists what size wire is to be used with a certain size breaker. ... | |
| Adding lights | 11/1/2006 |
| Q: I have a ceiling fan and it has two seperate switches on the wall. One for the fan and one for the ... A: You should be able to run a 2-wire cable from the junction box to the new location for the can ... | |
| Lights are out | 10/6/2006 |
| Q: Rick, I have a problem that has me stumped. I have lights in an upstairs hall (3 recessed cans) on ... A: It sounds like you may have some loose wiring, either in the panel, or in one of the 1st jbox in ... | |
| wiring an electrical furnace | 10/6/2006 |
| Q: I have an electrical furnace that has 4 breakers INSIDE it. 2-60 amp & 2-40 amp. I have a #8/3 ... A: You will need to follow manufacturer's instructions on this. You probably need either 2 240volt ... | |
| New Secondary Service | 10/5/2006 |
| Q: Can you direct me to a sizing table for underground cable. This would be for a new underground ... A: The code has ampacity table, Table 310-16. There is also a note for residences, which you can use ... | |
| GFI grounding wire | 10/5/2006 |
| Q: The National Electrical Code, section 406.D(3) indicates that a "non-grounding-type receptical(s) ... A: Why do GFI switches have a grounding wire at all? These have the grounding terminal for the same ... | |
| light bulbs buring out rapidly | 10/5/2006 |
| Q: Last week 2 other lights burned out. It hasnt been very long for any of these lights and I am ... A: I would suggest you try some higher quality lamps, for a starter. Then look at the areas of the ... | |
| sub feed | 10/5/2006 |
| Q: I have a 200amp main breaker box that is completely used, how may i add an additional panel box? I ... A: I would suggest you look into replacing some of your existing breakers with the mini-type, which ... | |
| Junction/Switch boxes | 10/5/2006 |
| Q: I will be installing new sconce lighting in basement. Are shallow metal octagen boxes acceptable, or ... A: You can use the octagon boxes, if it supplies you with the required amount of space for the wires in ... | |
| black and white wiring need a blue one | 10/5/2006 |
| Q: i have a wall mount sensor light switch to install it shows a black wire to lead blue to load green ... A: Do not connect the blue wire to white, which would cause a short. The black wire will wire to your ... | |
| Do I need another ground rod for new box? | 10/5/2006 |
| Q: Let me ask you a question regarding ground rod, I have a extension made on my garage 4 years ago to ... A: without know for sure where this wire comes from, it is impossible to answer your question. As far ... | |
| Disconnect on Service Conductors | 10/5/2006 |
| Q: I am planning on replacing my 100A service (meter currently inside house) with a 200A service. In ... A: As far as the code goes, you could put the meter directly outside of the panel, without having ... | |
| 220 Dryer Plug | 10/5/2006 |
| Q: Hey Rick, I recently moved into a new home. I have a new(er) dryer with a 3 prong plug, however my ... A: You will need to change the cord on your dryer to match the outlet. There should be instructions to ... | |
| Electrical- wire size | 10/4/2006 |
| Q: Rick, I have a cabin on the gulf coast. I want to run an electric line to the end of my 500' pier ... A: A 1000watt light will draw around 8 amps. If you add that to the maximum load that can be on an ... | |
| Flourescent fixture "life"? | 10/4/2006 |
| Q: I own a commercial building leased to the USPS in a very small Colorado town. The light fixtures ... A: Fluorescent type of lamps should have a pretty long lifespan, so if you are loosing them ... | |
| 220 Volt 3-way switch wiring | 10/4/2006 |
| Q: I would like to connect two switches to control a 220 volt outlet (dust collector in a home work ... A: You could do this by running a hot wire from phase A to one side of the outlet, and running the hot ... | |
| Wiring a GFCI | 10/4/2006 |
| Q: I recently added 3 outlets in a 3 season porch. I ran 12-2 new wire all the way back to the box. I ... A: Try unhooking the 1st outlet in the circuit, then turn the breaker back on, If it still tripps, ... | |
| Wire staples allowed by code? | 10/4/2006 |
| Q: I like to use those plastic cable holders with the two nails when possible, but I've run into ... A: There are inspectors who will call you on the number of wires under 1 staple. There are some nylon ... | |
| Recessed Electrical Panel | 10/4/2006 |
| Q: I need to upgrade to a 200 amp panel with a 200 amp service drop. I would like to recess the panel ... A: If this is not a commercial garage, then you can install the panel recessed in the wall. You can ... | |
| dc and ac in the same conduit | 10/3/2006 |
| Q: I am setting up a solar/wind alternative energy source for my home. I need to know if the NFPA ... A: If this dc circuit is the actual photovoltaic source circuit and/or the photovoltaic output circuit, ... | |
| Code violation for light fixture? | 10/3/2006 |
| Q: We are replacing light fixtures in our home and when taking out the existing "Hollywood" vanity ... A: Some inspectors would say it is a violation, but I think that if the cable is attached to the back ... | |
| Electrical wiring | 10/3/2006 |
| Q: How many outlets can you run on a 15 amp circut? The number varies in what referance material I ... A: It depends on what your load will be, and where these outlets are, and if there are local rules for ... | |
| frank.cioffi@bicworld.com | 10/3/2006 |
| Q: I am installing a screened in porch on a new deck in my back yard. It is attached to my home and ... A: #1: 6 + 3 = 9 X 50 = 450watts. You should be able to run this all together. #2: If by buried in ... | |
| Hot tub wiring | 10/3/2006 |
| Q: I had my hot tub wired by an electrician about a year ago. I am now planning to move the tub and ... A: You can add a junction box, but doing so next to the tub involves a bunch of rules that may make it ... | |
| 3 way switches | 10/3/2006 |
| Q: What tool do I need to buy to check the power going to wires so that my 3 way switches work ... A: A voltmeter to find out where the power is, and a continuity meter to test for continuity from one ... | |
| Mixup of hot and neutral sides | 10/3/2006 |
| Q: I used a professional voltmeter. There's no mistake: when the lights are OFF, both sides of the ... A: With switches in the off position, you read 120v between the white wire and the ground. You also ... | |
| Electrical wiring | 10/3/2006 |
| Q: My new house is 500' back on my property from the street. The Power company is running overhead ... A: Since you are required to use copper, that is what I will base my answer on. Without addressing the ... | |
| How many receptacle is too many | 10/2/2006 |
| Q: I am finishing an old basement and need to put new receptacles. Since old wires are not grounded I ... A: Unless the outlets will have a specific load on it, such as a refrigerator, sump pump and so on, you ... | |
| New service panel location | 10/2/2006 |
| Q: ft. apt. with existing 60 amp fused service. The existing panel will need to be used as a junction ... A: There is no restriction, but there are restrictions to the working space in front of the panel. You ... | |
| open ground | 10/2/2006 |
| Q: what is an open ground and how can i fix it A: An open ground, when you are talking about an outlet, means that the grounding conductor that is ... | |
| Neutral wiring | 10/2/2006 |
| Q: I have just moved from a home that had a hot tub that I brought with me. The house moved from was ... A: Your service will have a neutral. If your dryer outlet only has 3 wires, then you will have to ... | |
| PVC electrical conduit in the home | 10/2/2006 |
| Q: I am mounting a 240V AC disconnect switch on the outside of my house near the main utility panel. I ... A: Unless there are local rules that forbid the use of PVC, you can use it anywhere you would use ... | |
| service wire, copper vs aluminum | 10/2/2006 |
| Q: and have to run service wire from the pole to our house (about 250 ft) underground. we have been ... A: If treated correctly, both types will work ok for this application. Al is cheaper, but you have to ... | |
| DOUBLE LUGGING | 10/2/2006 |
| Q: Can you explain the term "double lugging" and in what type of situation would it be allowable ? ... A: Double lugging usually means landing two wires under one lug, and, for the most part, is not allowed ... | |
| Mixup of hot and neutral sides | 10/2/2006 |
| Q: I live in a very old house whose living room has four wall sconces. I was about to install new ones ... A: How are you testing for the hot wire? If you are using a cheap neon bulb type of tester, you will ... | |
| 200 Amp Panel Capacity | 10/2/2006 |
| Q: I have a 200 amp electrical entrance panel on my new home. I notice that the amp ratings on the ... A: This will be true of any panel. Most breakers will not have full load on it, or it would trip. ... | |
| Faulty Electric outlet or wiring | 9/6/2006 |
| Q: We have two electric outlets that aren't working. One inside and one outside. The last time this ... A: I would still suspect the GFCI for faulty operation. Try pressing the reset button, then the test ... | |
| bathroom fan stops mysteriously | 9/6/2006 |
| Q: We have a bathroom fan/light unit that for years worked well but occasionally its circuit breaker ... A: You will need to verify if you are loosing power at the fan, or if the fan motor is locking up. ... | |
| Putting in new service | 9/6/2006 |
| Q: Putting in new 200 amp service in house with a main disconnect between box and service for generator ... A: Your breaker size will depend on the rating of the conductor. You need to find out what size it is ... | |
| Home load center to out-building sub panel | 9/6/2006 |
| Q: Rick, I have installed a sub-panel in my detached garage. I have used the appropriate breakers ... A: You will need to have a neutral run with your hot wires. If you don't need both hots (240volts), ... | |
| Circuits | 9/5/2006 |
| Q: I figured there might be some difference between here and there! I'm writing from Ireland. Radial ... A: Peter. Sorry, it does sound like we have 2 different electrical systems. Ours, in the USA, uses AC ... | |
| ceiling fan wiring | 9/5/2006 |
| Q: I ran into a different situation on the third and last ceiling fan with light kit that I am ... A: This could be setup for a switch (red wire) to control the fan light. Connect the red to the blue ... | |
| connecting multiple neutural wires in one box | 9/5/2006 |
| Q: Is the a code compliant way to connect 7 neutral wires together in one box? If not, what is the ... A: There are large wirenuts that should be large enough for this number of wires. A blue wire nut ... | |
| Service Entrance | 9/5/2006 |
| Q: Installing 600A residential service. Have the proper CT cabinet and meter socket. Utility will run ... A: I would install a multi-tap lug in the ct can, one with enough holes for the 2 incoming neutrals, as ... | |
| Electric to new garage | 9/5/2006 |
| Q: I ran #6-3 w/gnd UF, but the supplier told me that it was only rated to 55A. I decided not to run in ... A: Since 55amps is not a standard breaker size, you can go up to a 60, per code. You don't have to ... | |
| Home power Circut brown out. | 9/5/2006 |
| Q: I noticed last night that one of my lamps was "browning Out". I turned it off and started checking. ... A: You could try checking all terminations in your panel, both the hots and the grounds. It sounds ... | |
| Euro Chandelier | 9/4/2006 |
| Q: I'm in the AF and just returned from Germany. My wife bought a chandelier, but it's wired for 220? ... A: Most likely, the fixture will not work in the US. You might be able to convert it to standard type ... | |
| hooking a rv to a temporary service panel | 9/4/2006 |
| Q: .I am putting up a temporary service where we are building a house. The temporary service panel has ... A: You can either install a 30amp, 110 volt outlet and breaker, or use the adapter that most rvs come ... | |
| New Service Panel | 9/4/2006 |
| Q: I want to upgrade an old service panel to a modern breaker box. The house was built about 1978 and ... A: Yes it can be changed, however the power company needs to be contacted to remove the power for you. ... | |
| Spa wiring | 9/4/2006 |
| Q: I have wired a spa for a customer and ran a #6 3 wire plus ground from 50 amp breaker from main box ... A: Try eleminating the source of the sound. Unhook the load (the spa) and turn the circuit on. If the ... | |
| Code requirements for Bathroom Fixture | 9/4/2006 |
| Q: I'm in a new construction home (8 months old) in Georgia. When I removed my old bathroom wall ... A: I believe this is a common way to connect a vanity bar light. If you will be replacing the bar ... | |
| electrical 220 volt | 9/4/2006 |
| Q: I have existing 220, 50 amp three wire service and need 200 v 50 amp 4 wire service. what do i need ... A: The 3-wire indicates that there is no neutral in the circuit, while the 4-wire does include the ... | |
| Circuits | 9/4/2006 |
| Q: I'm wiring a shed. I'm using an existing RADIAL circuit with nothing else on it to supply a ... A: Using the types of circuits you list (radial, ring) make me think that you are doing phone wore, not ... | |
| Electricity from a switch to a light fixture | 9/4/2006 |
| Q: I just moved into a new construction home. I am in the process of installing cieling fans with light ... A: Usually a pre-wired fan/light setup will include a switch leg for the light, and a hot for the fan, ... | |
| Noise With Light Turned On | 9/3/2006 |
| Q: After about 5-10 minutes of having my kitchen light switch turned on, I start to get a intermittent ... A: You didn't mention what type of fixture you have. If fluorescent, then this noise may be signs of a ... | |
| Pulsing interior lights | 9/3/2006 |
| Q: We noticed ceiling lights pulsing that were on a bi-dimmer for some time. It seems to occur ... A: I would have an electrician come in to look at the service equipment, which may have a loose neutral ... | |
| wiring switches | 9/3/2006 |
| Q: I want to put a 3-way switch on my basement lights. I've successfully run the 12-3 wire to the 2 ... A: I would think that you have a wiring problem. I like the use of diagrams when wiring 3-ways, so I ... | |
| Home wiring | 9/3/2006 |
| Q: How do you know if your home wiring is faulty? Our hoe was built in 1940. Lately we have had ... A: Usually, if you are seeing fuses blow, breakers trip, or outlets/switches die for no apparent ... | |
| 240V Wiring in a subpanel | 9/3/2006 |
| Q: This may be a simple question, but just want to make sure I get this correct. I recently installed a ... A: If you will be using 120v loads from this new panel, then you will need to have a feeder cable that ... | |
| service entry cable | 9/2/2006 |
| Q: Do Mobile homes need ground rods? Matt from new yorkWhen running a service for a trailer home do I ... A: Matt, The mobile home should not have a rod. The grounding is done by the equipment grounding ... | |
| sub pamel | 9/1/2006 |
| Q: i have a outlet in my garage not being used (220v) with #6/3 romex going into it (going to replace ... A: You asked: "1. can i hook up a sub panel to it" Yes You asked: "2. what size breaker will i need ... | |
| 100 amp service | 9/1/2006 |
| Q: I have a power pole with 200 amp main service (meter and circuit breakers) I want to run wires in ... A: The answer depends on if you will be running anything else from the pole to the house, such as ... | |
| Electrical Wiring | 8/31/2006 |
| Q: The NEC specifies the minimum volume for an outlet box for wire gauges down to AWG 6. I am ... A: According to Article 314.28. You have to transpose your cable size to conduit size, by using the ... | |
| Wiring 20 amp cabinet to 15 amp circuit | 8/31/2006 |
| Q: I am a homeowner with a contractor remodeling a bathroom in a 1980's era house. The existing ... A: Since the code requires a 20amp circuit in the bathroom, the cabinet manufacturer is simply ... | |
| Electric to new garage | 8/31/2006 |
| Q: Want to install 220VAC electric in new garage, the reason for 220 is for possible future welder. ... A: You asked: "What size/type/gauge of wire is required, wanted to use direct burial type." You said ... | |
| subpanel | 8/31/2006 |
| Q: I have a 3/4" conduit running from my house to an existing barn. I want to put a 60amp service in ... A: You can run a 3-wire feed to the barn, and establish a ground at the barn. All neutrals and grounds ... | |
| Question about shower recess light | 8/31/2006 |
| Q: I asked you questions about IC type recess light before. I am planning to install two IC type ... A: If the trim is made for the housing, I would think that it would be ok. Are you sure you are not ... | |
| Mystery fire/burn marks in carpet? | 8/31/2006 |
| Q: I am trying to find out the cause of two small burns that have occurred in our carpet floor. The ... A: Sony has had a recall of certain laptops due to batteries that may catch fire. I would not think ... | |
| Sub Panel Ground | 8/30/2006 |
| Q: I have a 60 amp subpanel in basement about 35 feet away from Main Panel. The sub panel only has ... A: This panel, if in the same building as the main panel, does require seperate neutral and ground ... | |
| grounding problem? | 8/30/2006 |
| Q: I have a small problem that's been driving me nuts. I have an Entertainment system (TV, Tivo, DVD, ... A: Are you sure it's not static? You could try removing the "other" utilities, one at a time to see if ... | |
| Tapping into 220 line | 8/30/2006 |
| Q: I need to tap into existing wires in my attick to power a couple of fans and lights. The only wires ... A: Don't use the 240v line. If you are sure the 15 amp circuit is maxed (how did you decide this?), ... | |
| service entry cable | 8/30/2006 |
| Q: When running a service for a trailer home do I need a disconnect out side the trailer? I have the ... A: You had better check local rules for your area. Some areas require a disconnect, some don't. Some ... | |
| Running nm cable in ABS sleeve | 8/30/2006 |
| Q: Rick: Thanks for the quick reply. I have, in fact, talked with two professional electricians (and a ... A: You say: "I believe the NEC allows a sleeve "for protection" of any length and is not required to be ... | |
| Quick Question | 8/30/2006 |
| Q: A friend of mine has lost power to her mobile home in Las Vegas, NV. The park had an ele. tech check ... A: Reset all the breakers, and look for a gfci type of outlet that may have tripped. These outlets ... | |
| upgrading to a 20 amp circuit | 8/29/2006 |
| Q: I currently have a 15 amp circuit which has my outside post lamp (which is on a photocell), my ... A: You don't need the redundant protection, however, useing the breaker will provide protection to all ... | |
| Running nm cable in ABS sleeve | 8/29/2006 |
| Q: I want to run new branch wire from a basement through a center chase in a residence to an unfinished ... A: You will not be able to run the pipe for your cableing needs. Anything over 9 current carrying ... | |
| ceiling outlet concealer | 8/29/2006 |
| Q: i had an electrician move a light in my hallway...now there is a hole with the box showing where the ... A: I am not familiar with the designation he gives for the box. Normally, a B box is for use in ... | |
| upgrading to a 20 amp circuit | 8/29/2006 |
| Q: I currently have a 15 amp circuit which has my outside post lamp (which is on a photocell), my ... A: A #14 wire can ONLY be protected with a 15 amp breaker. You will need to find out what is causing ... | |
| dryer cords | 8/29/2006 |
| Q: A new dryer with a 4-prong plug needs to be changed to a 3-prong plug to fit an existing outlet that ... A: On the back of the dryer, and in it's instruction book, you will find the directions to do this. ... | |
| replacing pool time clock | 8/29/2006 |
| Q: I am trying to install a load center in place of a regular 220vac intermatic time clock. The ... A: If you install a 2-pole, 20 amp breaker as a main breaker in this new panel, you should be allright ... | |
| Questions about recess lighting & GFCI | 8/28/2006 |
| Q: I have a few more to learn from you. 1. About recess lighting, I notice that there are IC and ... A: #1A: YES #1B: non-ic rated cans are cheaper, and can be used in locations where you won't have ... | |
| How far does a sub panel need to be from a gas water heater? | 8/27/2006 |
| Q: I am installing a 100a sub panel in the garage. There is a gas water heater there. How far does the ... A: The code only requires that you have a 30" wide by 36" workspace in front of the panel. This ... | |
| Making an adapter | 8/27/2006 |
| Q: I need to make an adapter from my single phase 10kw generator that has a NEMA 14-50 outlet to run ... A: You will need a matching plug to plug into the genset. You will also need an outlet that will match ... | |
| GFC outlets | 8/27/2006 |
| Q: Rick, I am going to be moving into a house built in 1951. I am not sure if the wiring has been ... A: Replacing an outlet with a GFCI type outlet is fairly easy. Follow the wiring directions on the box ... | |
| repair nick in underground wire | 8/26/2006 |
| Q: when digging to locate a wire leading to my well I nicked the insulation with my shovel down to the ... A: If you did not damage the wire, then you can repair it. Strip back the outer covering, which will ... | |
| wiring | 8/26/2006 |
| Q: I am wiring a new home using steel boxes and emt conduit. If I Have 3 outlets on one wall how would ... A: You can notch studs, but it is very time consuming, and you then have to install nail plates(check ... | |
| bedroom GFCI | 8/25/2006 |
| Q: I currently have a 100 Amp service panel for my home. I plan to upgrade to a 200 Amp. I was at a ... A: What you saw in the panel were not GFCI breakers, but AFCI breakers. These arc-fault breakers are ... | |
| subpanel ground | 8/25/2006 |
| Q: "I have a early sixties home with a 100amp panel. I am adding a 100 amp subpanel and have run (+/- ... A: First off, you say you are installing a subpanel. Will it be in the same building as your ... | |
| 220 line | 8/25/2006 |
| Q: I recently installed 2 airconditioners each on its own 220 line each leg on a 15 amp breaker ... A: John, it is probably because of the two sets are adjacent, and there may not be enough air around it ... | |
| electrical | 8/25/2006 |
| Q: I built a new house and had it wired by a pro. There are many problems, one being that the overhead ... A: It could be something as simple as the wiring at the fixture is incorrect (the fixture wired to a ... | |
| residential electrical wiring methods | 8/24/2006 |
| Q: A local electrician wired from the top of a service panel(located in a basement) up through a wall ... A: If the cables are seperated any, such as 1/4" to 1/2" between the cables, and no place along the run ... | |
| 220 line | 8/24/2006 |
| Q: I recently installed 2 airconditioners each on its own 220 line each leg on a 15 amp breaker ... A: When you use a 2-pole breaker, you do not add up the breaker ratings to get it's full rating. A 15 ... | |
| Question about routing wires thru joist/stud holes | 8/23/2006 |
| Q: I am going to route electric cables in my basement thru joist and stud holes. A few questions. 1. ... A: Usually, electricians will use a 7/8" bit to drill holes. If the bit is sharp, it should cut a ... | |
| Question on replacing dimmer lights | 8/22/2006 |
| Q: I currently have 3-pole dimmers (levitron?) installed in my home, and would like to replace them the ... A: it helped alot in giving you an answer. On the dimmer, you have 2 red wires and 1 black. The reds ... | |
| Replacing light fixture, no ground wire | 8/21/2006 |
| Q: We are replacing an outdoor light fixture on our house, built in the 1960s. There is no ground wire ... A: First off, you are required by code to have a box in place. If you don't have a grounding means in ... | |
| installing a sub panel for a shed | 8/21/2006 |
| Q: Miell, Thanks for your quick response!! I plan on having a licensed electrician do the hookups for ... A: Code requires that you have a grounding electode system at each building, regardless wether or not ... | |
| fan light switch | 8/21/2006 |
| Q: i have a fan light switch with toggle for light and slider for fan. switch has red black green and ... A: I'm afraid that I won't be able to help, at least not without more info. If the switch only has the ... | |
| installing a sub panel for a shed | 8/20/2006 |
| Q: Miell, I want to install a sub panel in a 16 x 20 shed i built. I already buried 222-4 al wire in 1 ... A: Given that your electrical load in the house is small, due to the presence of mostly gas appliances, ... | |
| DC wiring | 8/17/2006 |
| Q: I need to run about 50 feet of DC wire to a small 12 volt water pump(the type used in RV's). The ... A: In order to figure your voltage drop, you need to know what the load will be, in addition to the ... | |
| distance for Secondary | 8/16/2006 |
| Q: I am moving my existing house back on my property 350' from the road. The cost of a primary ... A: You will need to figure what your voltage drop will be, due to the distance. Google for a volt drop ... | |
| Installing a switch to control a light (power comes into the light) | 8/16/2006 |
| Q: How do I add a single pole switch to a light? The power comes into this light and I turn it on and ... A: To do this, you use a 2-wire cable, run from the light box to a switch location. The two wires in ... | |
| lowering an outside light fixture | 8/15/2006 |
| Q: I have cedar siding on my back deck. I recently had an awning put up. The light fixture is above ... A: If you can fish the wall, you could run a new cable from the old box to a new one, located directly ... | |
| 2 Circuits Feed 1 Split Receptacle - Separate Neutrals | 8/15/2006 |
| Q: I have a duplex electrical receptacle. It is currently getting power from 1 circuit. I want it so ... A: Yes you can do this, but you will have to tie the two circuits together at a double-pole breaker, or ... | |
| wiring a 220 volts freezer to old fuse box | 8/14/2006 |
| Q: I guess I could replace the range (40 amp and 50 amp) fusses with 20 amp bar fuses. Then it just a ... A: It's sometimes true, that electricians do shoddy work. However, most will do the job right, knowing ... | |
| circuit breaker for ac unit | 8/14/2006 |
| Q: I am trying to change a circuit breaker so that i can plug our ac unit into our livingroom without ... A: There are many things to consider when changing a breaker. #1 would be: Do you have the experience ... | |
| Junction box for oven | 8/14/2006 |
| Q: I am wiring my new house and getting ready to run the built-in oven circuit. I was picking up a 4x4 ... A: You are correct, the box needs to be flush with the finished surface. Look for a different box, or ... | |
| service Panel upgrade | 8/13/2006 |
| Q: Hey Rick, I recently did a service panel upgrade at my home. After bumping up from 100 amp to a ... A: It sounds like you may have lost one of your hot phases. If there is a disconnect ahead of this ... | |
| Running a line to a outside lamp post for my patio | 8/13/2006 |
| Q: Do I have to have any special wiring to run line under ground ? This line will be going fron my box ... A: If you use PVC conduit, then the wires in it need to be type THWN, or UF. If you directly bury a ... | |
| wiring a 220 volts freezer to old fuse box | 8/12/2006 |
| Q: I am installing a commercial freezer in a building i do not own. I do not want to make any upgrade ... A: I suggest you hire this done, since you state you do not want to make any upgrade on buildings you ... | |
| subpanel | 8/12/2006 |
| Q: i have an existing 70amp panel with 1inch conduit. i would like to reuse the 1inch conduit to ... A: For a 125amp load, the code requires that you use #1 copper wires. You can only get 1 #1 thhn wire ... | |
| Circut Box Amps | 8/11/2006 |
| Q: For a 1200 sq ft. home what would be the base Amps you need for a new electrical panel. (Currently ... A: For the most basic items, 100amps should work. If you are planning to add alot of electrical items, ... | |
| outlets | 8/11/2006 |
| Q: So one AFCI breaker to feed all three outlets? ThanksIf I wire a new room (bedroom) and it has 3-4 ... A: Yes, and if you are installing a smoke detector in the bedroom, it also would have to have AFCI ... | |
| conduit depth in a flood zone | 8/11/2006 |
| Q: On 08-06-06 I submitted three (3) questions to you, regarding installing a subpanel in a detatch- ed ... A: I have never heard that being in a flood zone effects cover requirements for conduit. You might ... | |
| Wire/breaker size for GFCI receptacles | 8/11/2006 |
| Q: I want to put in two GFCI receptacles on a separate breaker with possible 2 to 4 additional regular ... A: Either way is ok, but you will not need to put in 2 gfci outlets. The gfci outlets come with ... | |
| Ceiling fan with No light Fixture | 8/10/2006 |
| Q: I just bought a new house and installing a ceiling fan on the back patio. the wiring from the ... A: You are not in La Junta, CO. are you? Anyway, normally the electrician will wire from a wall switch ... | |
| wiring | 8/10/2006 |
| Q: I am wiring a home and on the print it says don't notch a joist in the middle third. Then at the ... A: In laymans terms, you don't want to notch any truss/joist in the middle of the truss/joist. Doing ... | |
| Changing Fuse box and old wiring | 8/10/2006 |
| Q: I lost power to half of my house because of a short due to improper wiring done by the original ... A: I agree with what you say, but, knowing how little most home inspectors know about electrical ... | |
| Dryer cord--changing | 8/9/2006 |
| Q: I have a dryer w/ 4-prong cord. I recently moved to an apartment with a 4-prong outlet, but the ... A: I'm a little confused. Is the existing outlet 3 or 4 prong? If 4, then you will need to keep your ... | |
| new outlet | 8/9/2006 |
| Q: I am trying to put a new outlet in with old wiring that does not have a ground wire, just the black ... A: The code allows certain types of replacements for non grounded outlet replacement. If you don't ... | |
| Electric Meter Socket | 8/9/2006 |
| Q: I have a damaged Meter Socket cover due to a tenant stealing electricity. The meter socket is a 8" X ... A: If you can find a manufacturer name on the box, then, along with the measurements, you should be ... | |
| Multiple GFCI's | 8/8/2006 |
| Q: I'm wiring a brand new garage(28'x38'). Will have over 20 duplex outlets that must be GFCI ... A: Yes, you can daisy chain the outlets. There is no real limit on the amount of outlets per circuit, ... | |
| Outdoor Recepticle | 8/8/2006 |
| Q: I am trying to put another recepticle off my patio for a pond pump and lighting, I have a recepticle ... A: You can run from any circuit in your house, with a few exceptions like the kitchen circuits, laundry ... | |
| Above Ground Pool Lighting | 8/8/2006 |
| Q: Rick: I have a 12 by 12 deck beside an above ground pool. I also have completed the underground ... A: The 2005 NEC has rules in Article 680, for pools. New luminaires have to be installed a minimum of ... | |
| hanging a light | 8/8/2006 |
| Q: I am hanging a light in my hallway. The light came with two wires and a ground. The white wire on ... A: If there are no indicators, such as a ribbing on the insulation, then you should trace it using a ... | |
| electric cooktop to gas: 220V outlet to 110V | 8/7/2006 |
| Q: I have just replaced a 220V electric cooktop with gas. The outlet for the electric top has three ... A: You can do either, but there is a better way to do this. Run a new 120v circuit from a single ... | |
| In Ground Pool Grounding | 8/7/2006 |
| Q: We are currently getting an InGround Pool installed. The installer/electrician have grounded the ... A: By code you are required to have this bonding installed. If the power company has a problem, then ... | |
| Wiring Dayton G73 Elec. Heater | 8/6/2006 |
| Q: I have a detached garage with a circuit box that gets it power from the main panel in the house. I ... A: I would think that your existing load would not be much, so you could add this additional load ... | |
| voltage drop concern | 8/6/2006 |
| Q: I am going to install a subpanel in a free stand- ing workshop, recently built behind my house. I am ... A: Code for a 60 amp circuit would be a #6 copper, but you probably should increase it one size, to a ... | |
| Ceiling Light Fixture | 8/5/2006 |
| Q: I'm attempting to install a light fixture in new construction (2006). I removed the ceiling cap ... A: I haven't seen wiring with this combination of wires (pink, purple...) so I suggest you trace out ... | |
| wiring | 8/5/2006 |
| Q: I am going to wire a new home. My question is what is the ruling on cutting into studs, joists, ... A: This question should be asked of your local electrical and building inspectors. Many areas have ... | |
| wiring | 8/5/2006 |
| Q: I live in a single-wide mobile home, I replaced my gfci recepticle, but it still doesn't work. I ... A: Have you reset the outlet? On the front of it there are 2 buttons, one marked test and one marked ... | |
| 220 wiring in conduit | 8/4/2006 |
| Q: Rick. I live in N.C. and I realize your answer might not apply. I am wiring an a/c unit in a ... A: The NEC has certain rules for commercial garages, and one of the biggest is the rule limiting ... | |
| Line voltage when circuit break off | 8/3/2006 |
| Q: We have had a new home built. When replacing two white recepticles with black ones for appearence ... A: When using a small voltmeter, you may see some residual or induced voltages. A better test to see ... | |
| Wiring ceiling 2 fans to a 4 way switch | 8/2/2006 |
| Q: I have a new family room. I put in 2 ceiling fans with lights. I want to power both fans with a ... A: My first thought was that you may have wired something incorrectly. My next thought was that you ... | |
| How to feed sub-panel to detached workshop? | 8/2/2006 |
| Q: I have a 70's vintage home with a top-feed service to meter enclosure, feeding through the exterior ... A: Your solution would be handy, but not code approved, unless you have lugs in the meter can that are ... | |
| Meter and Breaker Box install | 8/1/2006 |
| Q: I'm bringing temporary RV power to my lot and I'm personally responsible for doing all the work ... A: I would suggest you install a 200amp panel, and use this to feed the seperate 15 amp circuits you ... | |
| electric clocks | 8/1/2006 |
| Q: How can an electric clock begin gaining time? I have 2 clocks in same room (on same circuit) that ... A: If your home is connected to the electric grid, your frequency will be steady, and will not change ... | |
| wall switches | 8/1/2006 |
| Q: what is the difference between a heavy duty and light duty 15A/120V wall switch A: The most likely difference would be in the current carrying metal parts of the switch, and in the ... | |
| 300 amp service | 8/1/2006 |
| Q: I've been an electrician for five years, I have wired serveral 100 amp and 200 amp services. My ... A: To be able to build a 300 amp service, you will need equipment that is rated for at least 300 amps. ... | |
| detached garage wiring | 7/31/2006 |
| Q: I have a 100 double pole breaker (200) amp load center on the side of my house. I had this ... A: A double pole breaker, rated 100amps, is just that, a 100 amp breaker, not 200amp. If you need to ... | |
| power panel | 7/30/2006 |
| Q: I'm an expert in the Physics category with a house wiring problem. I'm retired after a career as an ... A: My 1st thought was about GFCI, so I'm glad you found it on your own. I have seen manufactured home ... | |
| wiring | 7/30/2006 |
| Q: The light switches in my house are are oozing a green liquid, inside the switches are sticky with ... A: Who ya gonna call? GhostBusters??? Green liquid could be water damage to copper wires, which turns ... | |
| Burned out lights | 7/30/2006 |
| Q: I recently installed some low voltage (12v) garden lighting. I run two transformers, one 400 VA and ... A: This type of wiring can be finicky. Make sure you have run your wires correctly, and the wires are ... | |
| Fried fuse box! | 7/28/2006 |
| Q: My landlord is very angry with me. My fiance replaced light fixtures in three rooms in our new ... A: You state that you did not have full power when you moved in, so I would think that there was a ... | |
| Correct Grounding | 7/25/2006 |
| Q: I recently ran 240 VAC service to an external garage for some ham radio equipment. This service is ... A: Article 810.21 of the 2005 NEC has the grounding requirements for antenna and equipment. 810.21(J) ... | |
| 100A subpanel | 7/25/2006 |
| Q: 'd like to install an on demand water heater in place of our gas water heater. The power ... A: If the subpanel is a main lug type, then your hots will land in lugs, which will be directly ... | |
| pool pump motor and fuse box grounding | 7/25/2006 |
| Q: How deep should this copper clad grounding stake be pounded into the ground, for the pool pump motor ... A: A ground rod is not used for the pool motor grounding. The bonding is done through the bonding ... | |
| grounding | 7/24/2006 |
| Q: My electrician has grounded a 240v 40amp circuit to a natural gas line, feeding a water heater in my ... A: According to Article 250.104(B) of the 2005 NEC, you are required to do this. This is called ... | |
| pool pump motor and fuse box grounding | 7/24/2006 |
| Q: We rent a home in Sacramento, CA and recently learned that the pool pump and fuse box are not ... A: You should be worried. This type of installation should be completed by a licensed electrician, ... | |
| Removed Ceiling fan, need single switch | 7/22/2006 |
| Q: I removed my ceiling fan, which had a dimmer and a power switch. I have installed a chandeiler in ... A: You will need to be a little more specific. How did you hook up the new light? What wires went to ... | |
| Does my house have unusual electrial surges? | 7/22/2006 |
| Q: We have lived in our house (built 1911) for 5 years... the previous owner was some sort of ... A: You should start by contacting your power company. They may a power quality person who could ... | |
| 3-way dimmer problem | 7/21/2006 |
| Q: I've been replacing some 3-way dimmers in my house with higher-quality ones in order to use some ... A: The could be a couple of causes for this. #1: Faulty dimmer switch. When installing a dimmer, ... | |
| Service Upgrade | 7/20/2006 |
| Q: Rick, I am planning on pulling a permit in Minnesota to upgrade my service to 200 amp and have the ... A: You can splice conductors in either panel, as long as you don't fill up the cross-section of the ... | |
| hard wire a vanity mirror with a plug | 7/18/2006 |
| Q: I purchased a lighted, magnifying mirror (wall mount)for the bathroom; it has an electric plug. ... A: If the unit came with a factory installed plug, then, no , you can't hardwire it. Doing so would ... | |
| smaller breaker feeding larger breaker | 7/17/2006 |
| Q: i just installed a 200 amp sq d all in one outside panel. power ran an undergroung service and tied ... A: You could install the 125amp breaker, and use it to feed the inside panel. If your load inside is ... | |
| Dead basement outlet - GFIC no - tripped breaker no | 7/17/2006 |
| Q: My sump pump was connected to an outlet on it's own. All of a sudden after 8 years it went dead. ... A: Are you sure the outlet is dead? Unplug the pump, and try a table lamp or radio. If outlet is ... | |
| What is the max load on a 20 amp branch circuit? | 7/17/2006 |
| Q: I have a 20 amp breaker that's been shutting off and it could be I'm overloading the circuit. ... A: To figure watts, you multiply voltage by amps. 120 X 20 = 2400 watts. Normally, a breaker can ... | |
| 100AMP vs 60AMP | 7/17/2006 |
| Q: I live in Central Falls, RI. I have to upgrade my electrical service from a 60AMP to a 100AMP. ... A: No, there is no "universal wire", only wires that are rated in amps. If you were to build a 60 amp ... | |
| Wiring a light fixture/pendant light | 7/17/2006 |
| Q: I purchased a pendant light from Pier 1. It has a long cord with a two prong outlet plug. I want ... A: You should be able to cut the wires, and tie them to the existing wiring. There should be a raised ... | |
| 3 phase 100 amp wire requirements | 7/16/2006 |
| Q: I need to hook up an industrial conveyor oven (t-shirt dryer) which is 3 phase, 100 amp. The run ... A: The NEC has a table that gives this info. For 100amps, the wire size is #2 copper. You could use ... | |
| Amp rating for bandsaw plug | 7/15/2006 |
| Q: My bandsaw is a 230V motor requiring 10gauge wire and a 30A breaker. I Bought a 50A plug and 50A ... A: Yes, you can use the larger device, but what is going to happen if you leave this location, and the ... | |
| service panel | 7/13/2006 |
| Q: I am installing a new service panel and load center. I am required to use a locking nut with a ... A: This grounding bushing can be installed on either end of the nipple, and is not required to be on ... | |
| charged downspouts | 7/13/2006 |
| Q: Something I forgot to add, I have a utility right of way that runs next to my house. These overhead ... A: Induced electrical voltage from overhead powerlines is possible, tho rare. You might want to get ... | |
| charged downspouts | 7/12/2006 |
| Q: I have just noticed after 5yrs. of living in my home, that 3 of the 5 downspouts from my gutters are ... A: You may have lost your ground, or your incoming neutral. Have the power company check their ... | |
| 12-2 wiring | 7/11/2006 |
| Q: How do you wire a light switch and 3 recepticals with 12-2 wire? A: Boy, is this an open-ended question, or what? You have not provided enough info for me to answer. ... | |
| grounds and neutral | 7/11/2006 |
| Q: Does current flow through the ground or neutral lines? Can more than one circuit share a neutral and ... A: Current can flow through any conductor. As far as the code goes, you can not have current flowing ... | |
| sub panel warm to the touch | 7/11/2006 |
| Q: I was in a location that had a (3) PH sub panel (highest leg 116.7 amps) being feed by a 3ph 100amp ... A: If you are pulling 116 amps on one leg, then yes there is a problem. It sounds like the wire may ... | |
| Water Pump | 7/11/2006 |
| Q: I have a new (6 months old)1hp elec. water pump(Teal)(the second pump with the same problem as the ... A: If you are sure that it is wired correctly, then you should call a plumber in to check the impeller ... | |
| on/off switch for a 240volt air compressor | 7/11/2006 |
| Q: What kind of switch do you use for a 240 volt line to turn on/off the power to air compressor? A: It depends on the rating of the circuit feeding the compressor. If less than 20 amps, you can use a ... | |
| Tapping into a 30 amp outlet | 7/10/2006 |
| Q: I am fairly new to electical stuff. I play in a band that taps into power supplies at hotels. ... A: Instead of just using a "quad box", use a small breaker panel, feeding it from a supply that you ... | |
| Assumption of Responsibility charge by licensed electrician | 7/10/2006 |
| Q: I am a homeowner currently in a contract to have my basement remodeled. The contract includes ... A: Boy, what a pickle! It sounds like it is time to hire a lawyer. My personal opinion is that your ... | |
| amps and breaker | 7/10/2006 |
| Q: Rick i want to get a generator to run my entire home, the breaker outside is 200 amp service, so to ... A: I get a little higher amount of amps, but still not what you will need to run your entire house, ... | |
| 240V switch wiring and weatherproofing | 7/10/2006 |
| Q: I have a few questions about completing the wiring for a water pump. Equipment: Gould Irri-gator ... A: You asked: 1. From the main box to the 6-30R, there is 10/3 run within the walls. The 6-30R ... | |
| 220 V coming into a GFCI outlet | 7/10/2006 |
| Q: I'm having a voltage problem. My neighbor(who is much more into electical troubleshooting than I) ... A: It sounds to me like you may have a gfci outlet that is either faulty, or needs to be reset. Try ... | |
| spa 50 amp GFI wiring | 7/9/2006 |
| Q: I have a Federal Pioneer 50amp GFI braker,for my new hot tub, the gfi has 4 position for wires,from ... A: You will need to follow the instruction that come with the breaker. Guessing whch wire goes where ... | |
| adding gfci outlet to double bathroom switch | 7/7/2006 |
| Q: I want to add a gfci outlet to a bathroom. Currently I have a double switch controlling a fan and a ... A: You will need to identify which wires go where. If you don't have a neutral wire, then you will not ... | |
| ceiling fixture not controlled by switch | 7/6/2006 |
| Q: now the bulbs stay lit and the wall switch doesn't control the fixture. where did we go wrong with ... A: It sounds like you may have wired the fixture to the existing wiring, incorrectly. Using a volt ... | |
| Pool | 7/6/2006 |
| Q: I am putting in a pool and need 220V GFI protected electrical service for a heater, pump, and 110V ... A: I would not think the GFCI breaker, being back fed, will work correctly. I would also suggest you ... | |
| double pole switch wiring | 7/5/2006 |
| Q: I need to replace a single pole switch that controls a fan and light with a double pole switch that ... A: I agree, you should not be abandoning any wire. It sounds like you have 2 wires in the box, feeding ... | |
| light stays on | 7/3/2006 |
| Q: Ok I am moving a 3-way switch at the bottom of the basement stairs to the outside of the wall I just ... A: Most likely the common wire you found in the lower switch was not the switch leg to the existing ... | |
| Why ground is needed | 7/3/2006 |
| Q: I understand the satety benefit of a ground cable. But would you explain for me why we need a ... A: If you were to tie the neutral to the metal frame, then when the circuit was powered, the frame ... | |
| UF Cable Connections | 7/1/2006 |
| Q: Rick: I am installing some UF cable for a pool filter along with some GFI outlets. I am using 12/3 ... A: UF cable is hard to strip. whatever tool you use. I use a utility knife, and carefully cut off the ... | |
| gfci installation | 7/1/2006 |
| Q: SO, I'm remodeling my bathroom. As I am close to finishing up I decide to change out a standard ... A: You need to make sure you are terminating the wires in their correct location. There will be a ... | |
| Moving Electric range/ bringing up to code | 7/1/2006 |
| Q: I just recently upgraded to a 200 amp service in our home, and have not reconnected the stove, due ... A: If you look at the nameplate of the range, you will find the info you need to size the wire and ... | |
| 2 circuits on 12/3 cable | 6/29/2006 |
| Q: I am remodeling a bathroom and the previous electrician ran a 12/3 cable from the service panel to ... A: You can share a neutral, as long as the hots are installed on different phases in the breaker panel. ... | |
| Home electrical | 6/27/2006 |
| Q: A few times the power has gone out in our apartment. When it came back on, things that were off ... A: In order for something to be on, you have to take some kind of manual action, such as flipping a ... | |
| wiring for ceiling fan | 6/25/2006 |
| Q: Good afternoon Rick, Could use some "unbiased" advise. Just finished a remodel and I had the ... A: You have a violation, if the contractor is using the bare copper wire for a neutral. This is not ... | |
| copper vs aluminum | 6/24/2006 |
| Q: What is the difference or reasons between using copper vs aluminum wire? I am wanting to run an 220 ... A: Cost is the main reason for using one over the other. Both are allowed by code, and work well, if ... | |
| apparent dead 220 wall socket | 6/23/2006 |
| Q: I have a problem sith a 3 prong 220 wall socket that seems to not send power out to either of 2 ... A: You will need to verify that there is no power at the outlet, first off. Use a voltmeter and check ... | |
| amperage for a new home | 6/22/2006 |
| Q: We're building a new 4,000 square foot home with two home-offices built into it. There is a large ... A: There is a caluclation method to determine what size service is required for residences. The ... | |
| Breaker Amperage Change | 6/20/2006 |
| Q: I have a 50amp 220v breaker supplying power to an stove outlet currently located behing my stove in ... A: If the unit lists a 20amp circuit as a maximum, then that is what you need to supply. You could ... | |
| electrical inspection | 6/20/2006 |
| Q: heres what he said. "orient electrical rough in, power in ,equipment ground bonding jumpers, power ... A: I would contact the inspector to find out what he means by these things. If there has been a ... | |
| New home main service grounding | 6/19/2006 |
| Q: I'm building a new home in Minnesota and was told by a electrician that you cannot use just a 8 ... A: The 2005 NEC does contain provisions for a concrete-encased electrode, and most areas have been ... | |
| Wiring fault | 6/17/2006 |
| Q: During fire related repairs on our condo building, a team of engineers discovered wiring (no info on ... A: Tearing out finished floors/ceilings will be the only sure way to do this. If it was done in one ... | |
| light bulb type | 6/15/2006 |
| Q: I have recessed lighting with a 75 watt rating. In the past, I have been using flood lights. I ... A: Yes, this is a safe setup. The electrical usage is only 26 watts, which is alot less than the ... | |
| pool electrical sub panel | 6/13/2006 |
| Q: Hey Rick I am istalling a sub panel at my pool pad for a 18x36 vinyl inground polymer pool. Panel ... A: A 60 amp panel & circuit will handle everything you have listed. If you are hooking up the 1.5hp ... | |
| Service drop/meter panel | 6/13/2006 |
| Q: I currently have a 100 amp service drop and meter with no riser. I need to install a new meter with ... A: Yes, doing it this way would be a code violation. Come from the inside panel, or add a main panel ... | |
| Generator Connection | 6/12/2006 |
| Q: I have a 5550 generator with a 30 amp 4 wire cord that will connect to my house prewire. My house ... A: You will not be able to do this. If the generator is wired for a 4-wire connection, then you have ... | |
| Breaker box | 6/11/2006 |
| Q: I live in a trl. I have a 100amp breaker on the pole outside below meter. In the trl. i have a ... A: If you are feeding 100amps into a panel rated for 50amps, then you have a code violtation. Changing ... | |
| 110 to 220 | 6/10/2006 |
| Q: I have any air compressor that is running to 230v sf1 14 amps. Can I just plug in a converter into ... A: There is no "conveter" that you could use in this case. You need to provide a 240v circuit, along ... | |
| Adding an outlet in the bedroom on a series from a GFI Breaker | 6/9/2006 |
| Q: Good Evening, I attempted to add an outlet in my bedroom by taking power from an outlet(receptacle) ... A: It sounds like you may have miswired the new outlet. When you push it back into the box, make sure ... | |
| sub sub panel | 6/7/2006 |
| Q: Question - Hi, Let me start from the begining... I want to hook up power in my shed. I have 150 amp ... A: Sorry for the delay in getting back to you. You can run a couple of circuits from one panel to ... | |
| 2 A/C (220V) on one 2-pole breaker? | 6/7/2006 |
| Q: Rick: Can 2 Air Conditioners (both are 220V, 15A in heat mode, 4A in cool mode) be on one 2-pole ... A: Perhaps the reason the older models did not trip the breaker was due to the units not coming on at ... | |
| main load center location | 6/7/2006 |
| Q: I wish to replace and old Zinsco main breaker panel in my cabin. Panel heighth is a problem, as the ... A: There is no minimum height requirement in the NEC. Having the panel 6" off the floor seems to be a ... | |
| New Sub-panel | 6/5/2006 |
| Q: I have a pole barn that I would like to run electric to. It is around 260 feet from my house. I ... A: #1 copper would work good for you. You could probably even go 1 size smaller, if you wanted to. ... | |
| 20 amp circuit | 6/4/2006 |
| Q: I have a 20 amp circuit that feeds 4 outlets in my kichen.The circuit tripped out the other day when ... A: If you can identify the cable between the last 2 outlets, then clear them from everything else. ... | |
| Subpanel Install | 6/4/2006 |
| Q: When my house was first built, the electrician added a disconnect switch at the rear of the home ... A: #1: If this is a house, there is no restriction for height, except a maximum, which is around 6 ... | |
| using 12/3 for 2 GFCI runs | 6/3/2006 |
| Q: I ran a 100' length of 12/3 through a conduit to a patio in my backyard. My goal is to have a ... A: The gfci breaker(s) are doing just what they are made to do, that is, detect an unbalance between ... | |
| Odd voltage reading | 6/3/2006 |
| Q: Rick, Nothing worked when plugged into a receptacle in our bedroom. I disconnected the receptacle ... A: Yeah, it sounds like you have a bad connection somewhere ahead of this outlet. Finding it could be ... | |
| Double Bonding | 6/1/2006 |
| Q: What is "double bonding" I have heard the term in connection tying grounds and nuetrals on the same ... A: I haven't heard the term double bonding. The code requires this marriage of neutrals and grounds in ... | |
| Mr Miell, Thanks for reviewing... | 6/1/2006 |
| Q: Mr Miell, Thanks for reviewing my question. Your help is appreciated. I live in a two stotry new ... A: I don't think I will be able to help. You should call in a licensed electrician to check this out. ... | |
| Converting switched outlet to on full-time; using switch for overhead lights | 5/31/2006 |
| Q: I previously had a switched outlet in one of my bedrooms and there was no overhead light. My goal is ... A: The only thing I can think of is that this cable feeding the outlet might come from some other ... | |
| Wolf 36" Elec. Cooktop connection | 5/29/2006 |
| Q: I am installing a 36" Wolf Electric cooktop (9.4kw)in a new home. I have oversized 3 wire 8 ga. ... A: It sounds like you have the right connections. It is not unusual for the neutral wire of the feeder ... | |
| smoke detectors going off | 5/26/2006 |
| Q: Rick, I saw the past question about smoke detectors going off for no reason and your response. If ... A: The only thing I can think of is that there might be dust in one (or more) of the units, which, ... | |
| new wall oven | 5/25/2006 |
| Q: I'm remodeling my kitchen and just received my new wall oven. looking at the wiring I saw that it ... A: The black and red wires are your hot wires, the white is the neutral, and the green or bare is for ... | |
| Rick, i live in a manufactured... | 5/24/2006 |
| Q: Rick, i live in a manufactured home in indiana. i have a outside 200 amp breaker disconnect out ... A: If I was you, I would have the 200amp disconnect replaced with a 200amp, feed-through breaker box. ... | |
| amperage loss | 5/24/2006 |
| Q: wondering what the loss would be with 400 ft of 12/3 or 10/3 starting at a 20 amp breaker thank you A: This would be voltage drop, not amperage. See http://www.csgnetwork.com/voltagedropcalc.html for a ... | |
| power outtage on a circuit | 5/24/2006 |
| Q: I have two rooms without power. They were working fine for over a year. The house is 32 years old ... A: You mentioned that power was restored, but lasted a few days. Was the power restored right after ... | |
| moving 220v outlet | 5/24/2006 |
| Q: I am hoping you can help me with what I am assuming is a simple problem. We just moved into a new ... A: You should be able to do this, but my question to you is: Why is it 2' short? Is your dryer cord ... | |
| 3 prong receptacles | 5/23/2006 |
| Q: We had a licensed electrician install a total of six 3 prong receptacles in a bedroom. He installed ... A: There is no code referrence for the way the outlet is to be installed, up or down. If there is a ... | |
| Codes for Basement Wiring | 5/23/2006 |
| Q: I recently got five feet of water in my raised basement house in New Orleans. Since my panel and ... A: I wondered when this problem was going to arise. Uncovered breaker panels, exposed and unprotected ... | |
| Shared neutral | 5/23/2006 |
| Q: Can I share a neutral from a different circuit? Added another switch to an original single pole ... A: You can share a neutral if the 2 circuits are opposite phases, not just different phases. If they ... | |
| SubPanel Load Calculation | 5/22/2006 |
| Q: I have a 100Amp Subpanel in my basement and am trying to calculate what the maximum # of Amps I can ... A: In order to figure what the existing load is, you will need to have a recorder installed on the ... | |
| red black white to black white fixture | 5/21/2006 |
| Q: I am installing an overhead light into an unused overhead receptical that was designed for a ceiling ... A: You will need to use the red wire to connect to the light fixture's black wire, not the black wire ... | |
| electric cooktop replacement | 5/18/2006 |
| Q: Sir; We have a 20 year old house & want to replace the old 30" coil burner electric cooktop ... A: The National Electrical Code has a requirement in it that says electrical equipment must be used as ... | |
| new subpanels | 5/18/2006 |
| Q: Rick I am planning on relocating the current meter drop on my property and adding three sub-panels. ... A: You can do this, as long as there will be no other metallic paths between the location of the main ... | |
| OUTLETS | 5/17/2006 |
| Q: YES, I LIVE IN ILL. AND I WAS WONDERING DO YOU KNOW WHAT HEIGHT DOES AN OUTLET NEEDS TO BE OFF THE ... A: The National Electrical Code does not have a minimum height for residential outlets. There are some ... | |
| 1875W Appliances | 5/17/2006 |
| Q: I'm starting to see more advertisements for 1875W hairdryers like this one ... A: I would think most users will use this dryer in the bathroom, which, for a long time now, has been ... | |
| long long run to pier | 5/16/2006 |
| Q: I'm concerned about voltage drop in a very long run. From my main breaker during renovation I had a ... A: Check out this calculator for voltage drop. You will need to know load & distance, then you can ... | |
| electrical feed | 5/16/2006 |
| Q: I own a rental house that feeds a shop building behind it. The rental is next door to my house but ... A: You will need to talk to your power supplier to find out if they would allow this. Most utilities ... | |
| Gauge of UF needed | 5/15/2006 |
| Q: I am burying an UF line from my well house to the main house. My generator is in the well house to ... A: Without knowing your load and voltage, I am assumming: Voltage = 120v, load = 30 amps (this is ... | |
| Gfi in garage | 5/14/2006 |
| Q: I just moved into 25 y/o home. Our home inpection report noted too many wires going into a single ... A: I'm not sure why he removed the breaker either. Perhaps he was planning to install another breaker ... | |
| Add a Main (not sub) panel to a maxxed-out Main Panel ? | 5/11/2006 |
| Q: We have a 200 Amp Main Panel (Square D "QO", 20 positions, w/40 breakers - they're tandem breakers), ... A: You can add additional panels fed from the main disconnect, using approved means. However, doing so ... | |
| Subpanel | 5/11/2006 |
| Q: You gave me a great answer to my question listed below (for reference) but now I have a follow-up. ... A: Yes, the act of installing the bar will bond it, as long as you are using the provided screws. Do ... | |
| splicing | 5/10/2006 |
| Q: Mr. Miell, I recently put up an oven range hood and cut a wire while cutting the opening for the ... A: When a wire is spliced, it is required by code to be in an accessible box. Is it dangerous? Not ... | |
| troubleshooting wiring problem | 5/10/2006 |
| Q: Yesterday morning, the ceiling lights and exhaust fan in an upstairs bath stopped working. I checked ... A: It sounds to me like you have lost your neutral connection somewhere. Go back through all the ... | |
| Subpanels | 5/9/2006 |
| Q: I've install a 100amp service in my detached garage which is about 50ft from my house. I have a ... A: Since you ran the 4-wire feeder, you are now required to seperate the neutrals and grounds in the ... | |
| How many outlets in a circuit ? | 5/9/2006 |
| Q: How many duplex outlets can you install on a 15amp circuit? I'm adding more outlets in a garage and ... A: The code says that in other than dwelling units, you figure the load at 180va per single or for each ... | |
| How to wire a 240V tankless hot water heater | 5/9/2006 |
| Q: I am wiring a tankless hot water heater that requires four 30 amp circuits. I have a 200 amp ... A: I would think that you would use the 8-2, and connect the bare ground wire to the ground buss in the ... | |
| Connecting a garage to house panel | 5/7/2006 |
| Q: I am wiring a garage that is located about 60 feet from my house. I'm planning to wire it through ... A: To answer your questions, in order: #1.#2 aluminum or #4 copper #2:yes #3: You have two options ... | |
| I am replacing a ceiling fan... | 5/7/2006 |
| Q: I am replacing a ceiling fan light combination with a regular track light there are a red wire, ... A: I would try the red to white combo. Was the existing fan/light on a switch? If so, the black wire ... | |
| new addition | 5/4/2006 |
| Q: I recently installed a new single story addition to my home. I am installing 11 outlets, 10 recessed ... A: According to your figures, these 2 circuits will handle the load. To figure loads, you multiply the ... | |
| appliance compatibility | 5/4/2006 |
| Q: I have power rated at 208V in my community college lab. We need to replace a water distiller that ... A: Colleen, You should contact the manufacturer to determine if it is compatable with US voltages. ... | |
| wire conduit | 5/4/2006 |
| Q: I was also trying to elicit an opinion about whether plastic or metal conduit would be more cost ... A: John, you will need to get local prices for each to compare. I have heard that PVC has increased in ... | |
| problem with garden lighting kit | 5/3/2006 |
| Q: Last night the lights would not come on at all! Does that sound like the transformer itself has ... A: Debbie, to verify that the transformer is bad, you need to do a couple of checks. One , it sounds ... | |
| 230V electrical outlet | 5/2/2006 |
| Q: Miell I just bought a 230v air compressor. I have only one 230 volt in my studio where my MIG welder ... A: Since your welder is a 40 amp circuit, hopefully the outlet and plug are also rated 40amps. If so, ... | |
| alarms | 5/2/2006 |
| Q: I am building a house. The print calls for a dual voltage fire detector wired in series. Now, these ... A: Dual voltage smoke detectors are common, and available just about anywhere electrical supplies are ... | |
| problem with garden lighting kit | 5/2/2006 |
| Q: We recently bought an installed a 15 piece garden lighting set. This set has a sensor and stays ... A: If the transformer is getting very hot, then there is a problem with the wiring, which is probably a ... | |
| wire conduit | 5/1/2006 |
| Q: Is it code to run plastic conduit to circuits inside a detached garage with a 100 amp sub panel and ... A: You can use any of the chapter 3 wiring methods, in a residential garage, unless local codes forbid ... | |
| 220 Circuit for Jacuzzi | 4/28/2006 |
| Q: Mr. Miell, Hello. I just found out about this question service and I think it's a wonderful thing! ... A: I can't give you the correct way to wire this, for a couple of reasons. First off, without knowing ... | |
| Rewiring antique metal lamp | 4/26/2006 |
| Q: I purchased an antique metal lamp and it needs to be rewired. I took it apart and cleaned it good ... A: Normally, the hot conductor will tie to the switch, and then the wire will go up to the socket. The ... | |
| Outdoor wiring | 4/26/2006 |
| Q: 1. I am running a 110V lighting circuit from my basement to lights which will be located alongside ... A: I recommend the use of a GFCI on all circuits used outdoors, and all outlets used outdoors are ... | |
| New Service to Detached Garage | 4/26/2006 |
| Q: Background: Have contacted utility company to add 200amp service to 3-level garage. Am in process ... A: First off, I would take time to visit with your local inspector on these questions. That being ... | |
| extension cords | 4/26/2006 |
| Q: I need help please. I have two questions, for which I've been on the net for over an hour now and ... A: When ratings are given for any wire, it is for one wire only. That is, a wire of a certain size ... | |
| light | 4/25/2006 |
| Q: The other day my husband installed a light and it worked fine. But today, I went out and came home ... A: It sounds like your husband may have miswired the new fixture. Have him double check all ... | |
| new panel to be install in new house | 4/23/2006 |
| Q: the meter is on the other end of the house , the homeowner wants 200 amp panel to be install in ... A: If the area in front of the panel will meet the requirements for clearance (30" wide, 36" deep, up ... | |
| pump stumped | 4/23/2006 |
| Q: Ok, my father and I are baffled here. We have a perfectly good water pump that was attached to our ... A: HMMMMmmmmmmm is right. I'm afraid I don't have a clue as to why it will not work in all outlets. ... | |
| upgrade and garage wire | 4/21/2006 |
| Q: I have a couple of questions related to an upgrade I'm doing. Currently, the house has a 60amp ... A: It sounds like you have the basics down. I would suggest you visit with your local inspector to ... | |
| Open Ground | 4/20/2006 |
| Q: Rick, I am selling my house and recently had a home inspection. 4 out of 6 outlets in my bedroom ... A: Sorry for the delay, my weekend was real busy. My daughter-in-law and son gave birth to my 2nd ... | |
| Wiring a ceiling fan | 4/17/2006 |
| Q: We recently installed a ceiling fan that has a remote control which controls the fan and light (a ... A: Is there only one black wire in the junction box which the fan is mounted to? If so, then turning ... | |
| new 240 lines | 4/15/2006 |
| Q: Rick, we live in Westminster, CO and want to install an on-demand water heater. The wiring ... A: Bill, I would suggest you visit with the local inspection department to get these answers, as they ... | |
| Cooktop Wiring | 4/15/2006 |
| Q: I bought a 220v cooktop with 3 wires - red, black and green. I bought the right gauge cable which ... A: You need to have a box to contain the splices, however the box does not have to be metal. It could ... | |
| who's responsible? | 4/12/2006 |
| Q: I live in St.Louis, MO in an older brick home. Outside, there's a porcelain knob, I believe called a ... A: You need to get the correct names of the equipment, then contact the power company (or the ... | |
| need more light out of a 60 watt fixture | 4/12/2006 |
| Q: I bought a new 3 light semi-flush mount kitchen ceiling fixture. At the home store the ad said that ... A: You can use the compact fluorescent lamps, without worry. Like you said, they are rated 23 watts, ... | |
| Smoke detectors going off | 4/11/2006 |
| Q: I live in an apartment complex in Tampa, Florida. I'm having a recurring problem with the smoke ... A: Why do you think it is in the wiring? If you don't have a firm reason, then you might want to have ... | |
| ALuminum wiring | 4/10/2006 |
| Q: I want to make my new house safer which as been wired with aluminum wiring. What is my better option ... A: You might want to visit this site http://www.alwirerepair.com/burned_purples.htm It sounds like ... | |
| electric | 4/9/2006 |
| Q: no plugs work in bed room useing a green lee tester both sides of plug show hot when all others in ... A: It sounds to me like you may have a loose or broken neutral connection. Turn the power off to these ... | |
| Meter to service panel | 3/30/2006 |
| Q: I'm buying some land in the county not in the city. The property has had service at one time which ... A: I would suggest you contact the power supplier to find out if you can use this pole, and if you are ... | |
| Proper installation of generators | 3/30/2006 |
| Q: I noted Al Knapp's question (on 3/16) about his generator, and all the old "separately derived ... A: It is a little confusing, without seeing firsthand what the setup is, and where all the equipment is ... | |
| Main Breaker Panal and Gas Water Heater | 3/28/2006 |
| Q: Is there any restrictions to the clearance between the Main Service Panal and a Gas Water Heater. A: The only restriction is a 30" wide area directly infront of the panel, going from the floor up to ... | |
| Mysterious light switch with pilot light | 3/28/2006 |
| Q: We just bought a 1947 cape in Connecticut, and we have a mysterious light switch in the hallway. ... A: Usually these are installed for equipment that is in an out-of-the-way location, such as something ... | |
| 70A subpanel wiring | 3/25/2006 |
| Q: I would like to install a 70A sub-panel in the basement fed from a 200A Main panel in the garage. I ... A: The 70 amp rating is the maximum that you can "run" through this panel. It is a fairly common size, ... | |
| Terminal connectors on outlets | 3/23/2006 |
| Q: First the details: I've got a bathroom outlet that I want to replace with a GFCI outlet. The ... A: You can install terminal ends to the wire, but usually it is not needed. Some GFCI outlets do not ... | |
| electrical service to barn | 3/23/2006 |
| Q: I wanted to run a 400A service from my house meter to a barn located 200 feet away. Incoming power ... A: You state you want to use #4/0 copper, but it is only rated for 230amps. You will need to either ... | |
| pool wiring in conduit | 3/23/2006 |
| Q: First let me thank you for your time and patience... I am running 10 g wiring to my pool pump which ... A: Yes, you do need the wire with the W in it's rating. The actual letters are THWN/THHN. Usually the ... | |
| Wiring a Motion Detector Module | 3/22/2006 |
| Q: Rick, I purchased a motion detector module (no light fixtures attached) that has a wiring diagram ... A: I Alan. The only way I can see of doing this would be with the sue of a 4-wire cable between ... | |
| some quick 'advanced' Q's - about: 250V, Iso Grd, mixed 120V rec, smoke detector | 3/22/2006 |
| Q: I've not seen the answers to these questions anywhere else here, but I have seen a few great tips ... A: In order; P1,Q1: You can share outlets, as long as they are the same rating. This is done alot in ... | |
| Installing a light fixture | 3/21/2006 |
| Q: I am attempting to install a light fixture. However, it does not have the black/white wire. Both ... A: The one with the white should be the neutral. You can verify this by using a continuity tester. ... | |
| Sub panel wiring | 3/20/2006 |
| Q: Rick, I live in Mich. and have purchased a permit to wire a new pole barn. I understand Mich. still ... A: First off, make sure the wire has a rating that includes a "W", such as THHN/THWN. This is because ... | |
| electrical outlets | 3/19/2006 |
| Q: all the outlets went out in my room only.when i test the outlets, it shows its hot but it wont work ... A: It sounds like you may have lost a neutral connection somewhere. Get ahold of one of those plugin ... | |
| electrical outlets | 3/18/2006 |
| Q: Does a detached garage or workshop require gfci circuits A: If the garage or workshop will have 125v outlets, then, yes, it does require GFCI protection for ... | |
| wiring a detached garage | 3/16/2006 |
| Q: While replacing a breaker in my detached garage I noticed that there was no equipment grounding wire ... A: If the house panel is your main panel, that is, there is not a disconnect ahead of it, then you do ... | |
| i have recently installed... | 3/16/2006 |
| Q: i have recently installed all new electric wiring for my new-construction basement. I had to ... A: It sounds to me like you may have some circuits wires tied together, which should not be. Only a ... | |
| No power to outlets. | 3/16/2006 |
| Q: I'm selling my house and I just found out that five of my basement outlets have no power. The ... A: If your basement was wired to code, before the remodel, you probably have a GFCI protected circuit ... | |
| Automatic Transfer Switch | 3/14/2006 |
| Q: I hooked up an automatic transfer switch in our home. We have a 100 amp service, 12,500KW generator ... A: Since your 100amp breaker box is the service disconnect, anything downstream from it will have to be ... | |
| Installing generator transfer switch | 3/14/2006 |
| Q: I have a 6600w output, 8000w surge portable generator. I would like to install a transfer switch to ... A: You need to contact the generator manufacturer directly, in order to find out why the 2 are ... | |
| electrical wiring | 3/11/2006 |
| Q: I have a bathroom heat lamp that will not turn on unless the fan switch is turned on. Can I make it ... A: You could install another switch which will turn the heat lamp on, but this will require another ... | |