| Subject | Date Asked |
|
| Pump starts running backwards | 10/8/2008 |
Q: I have two pumps that are in a pit and pump out only water from some gutters. They are 480 3 phase. ...
A: I would keep an eye on them. I had the same thing happen to an entire rooftop full of a/c units. The ...
|
| hot/fgrd. reverse | 10/7/2008 |
Q: a few years ago, several outlets on a circuit went dead. they'd be dead for months and then they ...
A: Check the voltage with a meter at the last working receptacle on the outgoing terminals feeding to ...
|
| INSTALLING TWO PARALLEL SWITCHES FOR CONTROL OF TWO SEPARATE LIGHTS | 10/3/2008 |
Q: connection switch: Ok I have a single simple switch which controle a ligth inside the house and ...
A: The original set up is not parallel, it is in series. The time clock was making the circuit based on ...
|
| getting electrical work | 10/3/2008 |
Q: I am a recent graduate of a technical trades school. I took electrical classes and also took and ...
A: I got the best results from a Yellow Page add for business. Also vs going to the job sites, the ...
|
| Running 220v Power for Stereo System from UK | 10/2/2008 |
Q: I own a Sony HDC-RDX8 stereo system which I purchased in the Middle East and brought back to Canada. ...
A: I had the same problem with mine years ago. Mine was a Marantz receiver. You will be surprised how ...
|
| Electric Water Heater Timer | 9/30/2008 |
Q: A timer was installed on my old water heater which died so I want to attach it to my new one. I ...
A: I have never seen this particular type timer. All timers I have seen break either one or both lines ...
|
| short circuit | 9/29/2008 |
Q: I have a question for ya. I recently installed a new plug in outlet..the wires got tangled and i ...
A: If this receptacle is not controlled by a switch, there are silver terminal screws on one side that ...
|
| the obvious is not workiing, baseboard wiring | 9/28/2008 |
Q: J, I am installing electric baseboard heaters. The heaters will be individually controlled by wall ...
A: If you connected the feeder cable with the white on one side of the breaker and the black to the ...
|
| Programmable thermostat help | 9/27/2008 |
Q: Last year I purchased a Honeywell rlv430a. It is a 2 wire programmable thermostat. ...
A: Most 240 volt heaters only break one circuit leg, when doing it this way one leg is always hot to ...
|
| dryer wiring | 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: Mark, actually this is how dryers were wired for years before the code update. Personally this is ...
|
| 3-wire for two circuits | 9/26/2008 |
Q: I ran a 14/3 line from two breakers in my panel to the attic to provide two separate circuits for ...
A: The tester is seeing back feed voltage from the neutral because these two circuits are sharing a ...
|
| outlet to three switches | 9/24/2008 |
Q: wiring (black, white, ground) goes to outlet then to three separate light switches. They control ...
A: Lesson Learned? Happens all the time so don't feel too bad. The circuit cable with the black, white ...
|
| jenn air cook top | 9/24/2008 |
Q: we do not have an updated 220 wire box We have a 4 wire cooktop and a 3 wire breaker box we blew the ...
A: This should have been correct. On a four wire appliance, the white would be connected to the neutral ...
|
| elec dryer issue | 9/22/2008 |
Q: I have a rental (Mom's estate) that my kids just moved into. There was an elec dryer in the house ...
A: A dryer typically takes a 30 amp circuit. The problem may be the circuit rating. It has to be fed by ...
|
| Change dryer circuit to a range circuit | 9/21/2008 |
Q: I've moved into a late 1950's house, standard 60a main fuse box (no breakers) and two 220v buddy ...
A: Regardless of the rating of the buddy box, of course it does have to be at least 50 amps and this ...
|
| wiring for a dummy | 9/20/2008 |
Q: i put in a new kitchen and put in a disposal need to know how to wire from wire that runs from ...
A: At first it appears you need to know how to wire in the disposal, but at the end you are going to ...
|
| circuit breakers | 9/19/2008 |
Q: my dryer stop producing heat it will spin but no heat, i called the manfacture and they said if the ...
A: You need a volt meter and check between the two large slots at the dryer receptacle to ensure you ...
|
| converting outlet to light switch | 9/19/2008 |
Q: I am remodeling my "L" shaped kitchen. I have 3 outlets (2 on vertical line of the L & 1 on ...
A: Pull out the receptacle you want to add the switch leg on. Use a two wire cable with ground, which ...
|
| temporary short | 9/18/2008 |
Q: I drove a screw into the 220 dryer line which tripped the breaker, I removed the screw and ...
A: Depending on how bad it damaged the insulation, it may never be a problem. The best solution would ...
|
| Re-Wiring Table saw for 220 | 9/17/2008 |
Q: I have a Sears 10" table saw that is wired for 110 volt operation, but the motor can be re-wired for ...
A: The receptacle you describe sounds like a 20 amp 120 volt receptacle. You need to verify the voltage ...
|
| shop subpanel | 9/16/2008 |
Q: I am setting a house trailer approx. 100' from my existing garage/shop, where my meter and 200 amp ...
A: I am not sure how much power is being used in the shop, or how much you want to use in the trailer, ...
|
| putting in a light fixture | 9/15/2008 |
Q: I have a red, white and black wire coming in and a red, white and black wire going out. How do I ...
A: You will have to open devices before and after this box to determine what is there. These could be ...
|
| 3 way switch replacement | 9/13/2008 |
Q: I'm trying to replace an old 3 way switch but I'm having trouble matching up the connections between ...
A: The only connection that is critical is the common terminal of the three terminals. It will be ...
|
| 2-200A+200A ATS?? | 9/13/2008 |
Q: Building a new home. Electrician is telling me I need 2-200A main boxes plus a 200A transfer switch ...
A: You need a little more clarification. There will not be 3 - 200 amp breaker boxes with this ...
|
| Switch at End of Circuit | 9/11/2008 |
Q: I am adding a circuit of recessed lighting in my basement. Power comes from the panel, thru seven ...
A: The switch is a back fed device when using the white wire, if it was at the beginning of the ...
|
| dead switch | 9/11/2008 |
Q: Recently moved into a relatively newer house. There is a switch in the entry way that looks like it ...
A: A tool every homeowner needs is a volt tester. It can be purchased at any home supply and is about ...
|
| 220 single to 220 3 phase conversion | 9/10/2008 |
Q: I need to convert a 220 single phase outlet in my shop to 220 3 phase for a 15 horse motor. I read a ...
A: Randy there are a couple of options, you can use a converter just for this one device, or a ...
|
| splitting 220 | 9/9/2008 |
Q: I noticed there is a romex cable beginning at the box in the barn with the two insulated wires ...
A: It is not providing a safe ground as it is. Since this circuit goes to a dock at any point, the ...
|
| installing ceiling lite fixture | 9/7/2008 |
Q: the light fixture that I want to install has a standard white and black connecting wire, the ceiling ...
A: You will have to use a volt tester or meter to determine which wires are the returning hot wires. I ...
|
| splitting 220 | 9/7/2008 |
Q: I noticed there is a romex cable beginning at the box in the barn with the two insulated wires ...
A: From the 220 breaker, there should have been a 3 wire with ground ran so there would be an insulated ...
|
| ceiling light | 9/3/2008 |
Q: I'm looking to add a ceiling light to a bedroom. The existing switch is now controlling a wall ...
A: The big obstacle is the circuit is at the receptacle, not the switch so the wire will have to ran to ...
|
| Ceiling fans | 8/29/2008 |
Q: I am helping a friend install ceiling fans in rooms with light fixtures leading to single wall ...
A: It will require one more wire to the fan. The current switch has the hot circuit on one side and the ...
|
| Electrical wiring | 8/28/2008 |
Q: During a remodeling project I forgot to write down how a switch box was wired. There are two ...
A: With out being able to test the voltage, each switch appears to need the black and red conncted to ...
|
| home wiring problem | 8/28/2008 |
Q: my power keeps cutting in and out it will flicker go out for a few seconds and then return it does ...
A: The first avenue is to contact the utility to check their incoming lines. There is a loose ...
|
| Clicking sound in walls | 8/27/2008 |
Q: Hear an intermittent clicking sound in the wall of an interior bathroom. Sounds like it is coming ...
A: Since it seems to be from the exhaust fan, it may be a damper that is opening and closing that is ...
|
| Wall Oven Wiring | 8/27/2008 |
Q: I have 2 questions I was hoping you could ahelp with: 1. I am remodeling the kitchen and will ...
A: 1. It will be no problem running the oven on a circuit with wiring rated for 50 amps, which would be ...
|
| Hot Tub | 8/26/2008 |
Q: what is the difference between 15A 110V and 20A 125V other than the plug being sideways on one end. ...
A: The voltage figures do not matter as some manufacturers say 110, 115, or 120 but all are referring ...
|
| wiring outlet | 8/26/2008 |
Q: I want to move an outlet, and when I opened it up, I found 3 wires. Red, black, and white. No ...
A: My first thought was, and still may be correct, is this receptacle is fed by two hot wires, the red ...
|
| installing new door chime | 8/25/2008 |
Q: Mr Cook I am helping someone do some odd jobs around her house, built in 1939. She had removed the ...
A: At the button location see what color wires are feeding it, this will verify two of the wires. I am ...
|
| light switch | 8/24/2008 |
Q: how do i hook up a switch ,to a wall outlet
A: If you have a live receptacle to add a switch, run a two conductor wire with a black, white and ...
|
| rewiring 1200 sq ft house | 8/24/2008 |
Q: looking at buying house, know it has wiring problems, what would the approx cost be to rewire the ...
A: Since an electrician is personably liable for the wiring, I do not believe there is much you can do. ...
|
| Need 120V from 240V on a water heater | 8/23/2008 |
Q: here is the setup: Installed a pool electric water heater (4 elements 20000 W total on 240V). From ...
A: The best solution would be a proper transformer. Almost every a/c units control voltage is 24 volts ...
|
| Pink & Orange wires? | 8/22/2008 |
Q: We are remodeling our kitchen and I noticed the electrician installed pink & orange wires in the ...
A: Manufacturers are now using every color of wire known to man, nothing is standard any more and as ...
|
| weld machine wiring | 8/21/2008 |
Q: wanting to rent a 250 amp welder. I need to wire it up at the house. I have a 200 amp main/with ...
A: Philip, a welder is a somewhat unique device. It converts energy similar to a transformer to have ...
|
| generator | 8/20/2008 |
Q: I (work for electric co.) need to hook up a generator to a 120v 2w meter can to keep a street light ...
A: Every generator has built in receptacles. I would put a male cord end on a #12 rubber cord long ...
|
| Electrical wiring | 8/19/2008 |
Q: J. I am wiring two wall lights on separate switches, with power to one of the lights. Can you help ...
A: It will depend on whether you are going from the switch to the second light, or feed from the first ...
|
| wiring | 8/17/2008 |
Q: installing a new light in the bathroom There are 4 wires coming from the ceiling 2 black 1 white ...
A: Look very carefully in the ceiling box. One cable has either one black, one white and one bare ...
|
| making a 3 way light for timing - parts? | 8/16/2008 |
Q: I want to make a small, light, sturdy unit which holds 3 different colored light bulbs. The user ...
A: I do not know of an existing device to use, but making one out of wood and painting it you can ...
|
| stove outlet/ braker & check up | 8/16/2008 |
Q: ok cook thank you for all this good info. i am learning alot and hoping some time soon i can get ...
A: The size of the wire really can be deceiving as the insulation thickness or the number of strands ...
|
| Wiring Methods-unfinished basements | 8/15/2008 |
Q: I understand that according to Article 334.15(c) you must staple non-metallic sheathed cable that is ...
A: I totally agree, and apparently many inspectors do also. The electrical code is a guide, but any ...
|
| New breaker box in detached garage | 8/15/2008 |
Q: I have an old fuse box in a detached garage. All the wiring into and out of the box is new and I am ...
A: You are correct, #10 is only rated at 30 amps, so it will not take much to overload this wire. If ...
|
| Running entire home electrical system from a phase converter | 8/14/2008 |
Q: I was given a 3hp table saw and a 5hp air compressor, both have a 3 phase motor on them because they ...
A: From the information I can obtain it appears this converter is rated for 100 amps. Just as with an ...
|
| light will not turn off | 8/14/2008 |
Q: I've installed 4 new lights n the kitchen, along with a new switch. The #1 light works like it ...
A: The black wire from the switch should be connected to the power black wire and nothing else. The ...
|
| whos right | 8/13/2008 |
Q: i am going to hook up a ac 225 stick welder. it calls for 230 volts and 50 amps. i only have room ...
A: Paul, I think I am as ready for you to get this completed as you are. First, I can not believe a ...
|
| installing a subpanel | 8/13/2008 |
Q: i want to add a subpanel in my workshop: 1.my main panel is rated at 150amps & has all but 2 slots ...
A: I will go in question order. 1. It depends on the load that is already on the panel. The only way ...
|
| Doorbell chime | 8/12/2008 |
Q: I purchased a DE-Light LED doorbell and a Craftmade Westminster (8) tone Door Chime model C3PW. When ...
A: There have to be two wires going to the button. I do not have the wiring diagram, but the ...
|
| Switching a 220 volt element | 8/11/2008 |
Q: I have a question regarding a homemade smoker/cooker. I will be using a typical 220 Volt oven ...
A: You can do it exactly as proposed. A similar use is a 240 volt baseboard heater. The thermostat on a ...
|
| submetering | 8/11/2008 |
Q: I need to install an emon dmon class 2000 submeter. Here is the situation: I will install a 600 amp ...
A: That is exactly how the systems are metered in my location, but before I invested a lot of time and ...
|
| Subpanel service | 8/10/2008 |
Q: I've built an outbuilding that I've got a subpanel in, the building is wired inside already. I'm ...
A: By code you have to use a 4 wire cable from the main panel. This change was made almost 10 years ...
|
| 60amp to 100amp cost | 8/10/2008 |
Q: looking at houses and one I like has a 60amp fuse panel, and for insurance purposes I would most ...
A: Most residential services are 200 amps. I would go ahead while it is being upgraded with a 200 amp ...
|
| dimmer switch wiring | 8/8/2008 |
Q: In our dining room there are two switches that can turn the chandelier on and off. I replaced one ...
A: With two switches controlling the same device, each must be a three way switch with a common ...
|
| electric service in 1920 4-plex | 8/7/2008 |
Q: My mom & dad inherited a 1920s 4-plex. The electric service coming in is 60AMP cartridge fuses to ...
A: There must be many gas appliances in this structure. I do not see how today a single family home can ...
|
| powering a lincoln ac 225 s welder | 8/6/2008 |
Q: i just got a ac 225 lincoln stick welder and am tring to find a way to get power for it. it calls ...
A: It would be really pushing the 40 amp stove circuit as this is the max rating on the circuit and the ...
|
| getting power for 230v 50amp welder | 8/5/2008 |
Q: i just got me a nice old lincoln ac 225 s stick welder. i know very little to electric trems. i was ...
A: First of all does this friend not care for you very much? If you attempt to connect to the wires ...
|
| adding a ceiling light | 8/5/2008 |
Q: You were really helpful last week, so I'm hoping I can get a little more info for another possible ...
A: Jay I am glad I was able to help earlier and will assist at any time I can. You will have no problem ...
|
| Flat blade plugs | 8/4/2008 |
Q: I just purchased an a/c window unit and it came with a two blade flat (horizontal) plug. I wired a ...
A: The installation is correct. However a mistake in checking the voltage is reading from each slot to ...
|
| Lights | 8/3/2008 |
Q: I have remodeled a room and installed two light fixtures on the ceiling controlled by switches on ...
A: This is a three way circuit and something is crossed. It is a very difficult circuit to describe in ...
|
| Motor wiring | 8/1/2008 |
Q: Seems popular, and there is no wiring diagram, but here is what I have to work with. AO Smith 115v ...
A: Kevin, even amongst AO Smith motors the wire colors can be controlling different items. The only way ...
|
| Electrical wiring | 8/1/2008 |
Q: I'm trying to replace a switch that controls a recept to control a ceiling light that I'm ...
A: This sounds confusing as I do not see why the switch would be controlling a receptacle to control a ...
|
| adding a bathroom fan | 7/31/2008 |
Q: I'd like to add a fan to my bathroom which currently isn't wired for one. The bathroom only has a ...
A: It depends on the type of dimmer. Some require a neutral connection also, but that can just be ...
|
| Sensor light | 7/31/2008 |
Q: Want to wire two outdoor sensor lights, "Portfolio" model #PF-4166-SA , to have a dual master ...
A: A standard sensor light is connected to a constant power source and when the sensor detects motion ...
|
| Lampshade voltage | 7/30/2008 |
Q: I am going to move to a country where the electrical current is at 220 volts. Will my 120 ...
A: I am sure the plug configuration is different and the internal components are only rated for 120 ...
|
| Dryer Electrical outlet | 7/29/2008 |
Q: My old dryer is currently connected to a 50 amp dryer receptacle, which I have come to discover is ...
A: The only reason this could void the warranty is the 50 amp breaker that will not trip if there is a ...
|
| electrical | 7/29/2008 |
Q: how do i add another switch to control one lite from two different positions
A: Nathan, this would be a three way switch circuit. It is very difficult to explain this in writing ...
|
| How many amps is a 3HP treadmill | 7/26/2008 |
Q: How many amps does a 3HP treadmill motor use?
A: It should be stated on the nameplate label, but a positive way to know is to connect it to a drop ...
|
| installing a sub-panel | 7/26/2008 |
Q: I just built a 12x20 shed to be partially used as a small workshop. I was planning on installing a ...
A: Depending on what loads you will be using, I would still go with the 20 amp circuits and put two on ...
|
| adapter 230 Volt AC to 9 Volt DC 1000 mA | 7/25/2008 |
Q: Long time ago I bought a Radio Shack A mini amplifier speaker : - input sensivity : 1mV - Imput ...
A: Yes. A transformers rating is based on its maximum capabilities, so anything under this will work as ...
|
| low voltage lighting | 7/23/2008 |
Q: I don't understand electronics very much. I installed a 300 Watt low voltage transformer to a GFCI ...
A: The transformer is not emitting 300 watts, it is only emitting what load is attached, ie 140 watts, ...
|
| hot tub wiring | 7/23/2008 |
Q: I have a 240v hot tub hard wired to my electrical box. I am moving across town and want to ...
A: That is all it will take. If you have never working in a live panel before though, keep in mind that ...
|
| Pendant Lamp Installation | 7/22/2008 |
Q: ..I installed a pendant hanging lamp on my own and i connected the black to black, white to white, ...
A: I need a little more information Tara. Did you replace an existing fixture? Also, there is a switch ...
|
| Converting a switch to control 1 outlet on a 2 outlet recep. | 7/20/2008 |
Q: i have in my home a dual outlet wall socket that is controlled by a switch. The switch controls both ...
A: If you turn off the circuit controlling this receptacle and pull it out of the wall, you will see ...
|
| hi | 7/18/2008 |
Q: some friend of mine is very poor and told me they plan on somehow stealing electricity form the ...
A: There will always be some electricity lost from damaged lines, weak transformers etc. that the ...
|
| pump wiring | 7/18/2008 |
Q: i have a 1.5 hp pump 230v 8.0amps what size breaker would i use? single or double pole? what size ...
A: It will require a double pole to get 230 volts and with a rating of 8 amps, to allow for start up ...
|
| RELIANCE TIMER FOR INGROUND POOL | 7/17/2008 |
Q: I HAVE A RELIANCE TIMER TYPE 511 AND HAD TO REPLACE A WIRE TO MY POOL PUMP AND NEED HELP RE-WIRING ...
A: The incoming power wires SHOULD connect to the front two screws and the pump wires to the other two, ...
|
| condensate pump | 7/17/2008 |
Q: Montgomery County, Maryland required a condensate pump although I have a drain hole right next to ...
A: There is usually a molded cord on the pump to allow it to plug into a regular receptacle for power, ...
|
| panel load max | 7/2/2008 |
Q: Our house has aluminum wiring w/ 125amp box. It has open slots for additional breakers and I would ...
A: The only way to truly tell is to turn on all possible loads and with an amp clip, put it around ...
|
| installing electric heaters | 6/30/2008 |
Q: I will be installing 3 500 watt 3' electric (220v) baseboard heaters, up on the 2nd floor. What ...
A: The formula to determine a circuit size is: Watts divided by Volts = Amps So with the ...
|
| 220 to 110v wiring | 6/30/2008 |
Q: i have 220 v single wire in my pole barn and would like to wire this with with 110 v how do i ...
A: I am not sure how you have 220 on a single wire as it usually requires both legs of a service of 120 ...
|
| Outlet damages appliances | 6/29/2008 |
Q: I believe I have a problem with my bathroom outlet. I have damaged several appliance. For instance ...
A: It is very likely there was a problem with the old receptacle. What you need to try is plugging ...
|
| working spaces | 6/28/2008 |
Q: NEC 110.26 defines the width of the working space in front of the electrical equipment shall be the ...
A: I would absolutely get the inspector who will pass the job's input. By code, the area in front of a ...
|
| ceiling fan | 6/27/2008 |
Q: I just installed a ceiling fan. Out of the ceiling I have 2 white two black and one red and a ...
A: The two blacks and whites on the fan are for the fan and a light kit in case one is installed. The ...
|
| low voltage canopy | 6/26/2008 |
Q: I'm trying to install exterior low voltage fixtures inside my house (new construction). I'd like to ...
A: The problem may be with either of these is any wire junction has to be readily accessible according ...
|
| Wiring upgrade? | 6/25/2008 |
Q: I'm about to help a friend wire a basement he is finishing. It's about 1600 sqft with 3 bedrooms, ...
A: Regardless of the number of breakers or the current incoming service size, it depends on the current ...
|
| second panel box | 6/25/2008 |
Q: i have a 200 amp panel. i have added things to it in the past. now i have got a tankless water ...
A: In no jurisdiction I am aware can you do this yourself or any licensed electrician. The pole feed is ...
|
| fan/light and 3 way switches | 6/24/2008 |
Q: I have a huge problem. I have 2 locations in my home that have this. The wiring setup is as ...
A: It would require removing the remote control device in the new fans which I am sure would void the ...
|
| Neutral wire size | 6/24/2008 |
Q: I am doing a 100 to 200A service upgrade and need to splice most of the circuits in a junction box ...
A: I have not encountered this situation where the neutrals did not go back to the panel separately and ...
|
| no power to outlet | 6/23/2008 |
Q: I just noticed that both power outlets in both of my bathrooms are not working. All other light and ...
A: These receptacles should be controlled by a GFI device somewhere. It is a receptacle with a reset ...
|
| Timer Switch | 6/22/2008 |
Q: I am trying to install a in-line vent fan with a wall timer switch. The timer switch has 4 wires ...
A: Without the exact model switch I can not be 100% certain, but the circuit should connect color for ...
|
| GFI tripped after strom and won't reset | 6/22/2008 |
Q: We had one of our usual storms yesterday in Florida and I had one GFI trip. When I pushed to reset, ...
A: I would call an electrician. Either the circuit has been damaged or some other device on the circuit ...
|
| Wiring a Detached Garage | 6/20/2008 |
Q: I need some clarification. I am wiring a detached garage that is about 80 feet away. I buried four ...
A: The only thing different from what you have so far is the ground needs to be connected to the ground ...
|
| GFCI v.s others | 6/18/2008 |
Q: (1)A GFCI is the best to use, especially in a bath or kitchen (2)Then we have an older outlet in ...
A: 1. A GFCI is required by electrical code in a bath, kitchen, outside, or near a water source such as ...
|
| Mobile home electrical | 6/17/2008 |
Q: I have an 1987 pinewood mobile home (Doublewide) half of the power in the house is out. I have ...
A: Different manufacturers run the electrical in different areas, you would have to check with the ...
|
| 220 electric dryer | 6/16/2008 |
Q: Our old electric dryer suddenly stopped producing heat, everything else worked as it should. We ...
A: I agree Pat. Most dryer components including the motor work from 120 volts, but it requires the full ...
|
| GFCI w/switch | 6/15/2008 |
Q: The GFCI has a line side and a load side. There is also 2 black switch leads coming out of the top ...
A: From the load side, there should be one black and one white just like the line side. Apparently ...
|
| Can light to pendant light | 6/15/2008 |
Q: I have several can lights and want to make them into regular ceiling light attachments. I want to ...
A: It is not impossible, but difficult. The can light fixture is an entire apparatus in itself. A ...
|
| split line | 6/12/2008 |
Q: had 5 florescent lights and am replacing them with 50 watt lights. I plan on installing 6 or 7 of ...
A: The formula to determine the load on a circuit is: Watts divided by volts = amps ...
|
| Square D sub panel expansion | 6/12/2008 |
Q: I currently have a Square D Q08-16L 100D sub panel with eight circuit breakers. Eight is not ...
A: No panel can be modified by code. It is common for manufacturers to use the same inside panel shield ...
|
| Double Meter Socket Wiring | 6/10/2008 |
Q: Do you know if it's allowed to use a 2 gang 200 amp meter socket to feed (1) 200 AMP panel and (1) ...
A: Some utilities do offer a meter base with two load side lugs. You will have to check with the ...
|
| Relocating 220 volt for Stove - splice ok? | 6/10/2008 |
Q: I am planning on remodeling my kitchen. As part of the make-over I will be moving the electric ...
A: A junction box has to be accessible by code. You can cut around it even if it inside of the cabinet ...
|
| European to American | 6/5/2008 |
Q: Hope you can help or know someone who can help. We are building a home in the Caribbean where the ...
A: Most likely it will require a fairly large transformer to convert the power. I would check with a ...
|
| wiring | 6/4/2008 |
Q: what exactly is a common in an elec. circuit. Low voltage and high. Does it have the same voltage as ...
A: Every type of voltage requires a " Hot " and a common or in higher voltage commonly called a ...
|
| Outdoor 20A Circuit & Low Voltage Circuits | 6/4/2008 |
Q: I am landscaping my back yard and want to install a 20A circuit. I have an extra slot in my garage ...
A: Running 100 feet you need to step up to #10. Since it will be in conduit, it would probably be ...
|
| Low flowing electric | 5/30/2008 |
Q: I have electricity that runs to my barn and everything works but it is now running slow, example, ...
A: I would say there is a damaged wire or loose connection. Check the voltage with a meter in a ...
|
| detached garage wiring feed | 5/30/2008 |
Q: I have a 50'x80' detached garage that is 500' from my home. I want to run power from the home (200 ...
A: To allow for the distance, I would run 2-#1 copper for the hot leads, 1-#3 copper for the neutral, ...
|
| trifield reading | 5/29/2008 |
Q: We live in a condo conversion built in the mid 1980's. I have this EMF reader, and most of the house ...
A: Some of these meters are so sensitive they can pick up readings from a cell phone, copper piping, ...
|
| Electric Question | 5/29/2008 |
Q: This might sound strange but this is what is happening in my sons room... When we have our Dish ...
A: It may very well do this if anything is plugged and then unplugged from this receptacle. I suspect ...
|
| Ceiling fan wiring | 5/28/2008 |
Q: I have a switch that controls the top 1/2 of the outlet. I would like to remove the switch, make the ...
A: Actually you have two different power feeds to the current receptacle, both coming in on red wires. ...
|
| Flourescents and Humidity | 5/21/2008 |
Q: Does humidity affect fluorescent tube lights? I have several older ceiling fixtures in my garage ...
A: I have never encountered a problem with flourescent lighting affected by humidity, but any thing is ...
|
| 220 single phase to 220 2 phase | 5/21/2008 |
Q: G'day we are moving back to Australia and would like to take a 220v 2 phase appliance (clothes ...
A: Unless there is some sort of a converter available at an electrical supply, I do not see how it can ...
|
| service disconnect, residential | 5/20/2008 |
Q: For a residential application, if the service drop and meter is on the outside wall of an attached ...
A: The first means of disconnect from the meter has to be within 6 feet of the meter. You can penetrate ...
|
| Table Saw Circuit | 5/20/2008 |
Q: I'm wiring a basement shop and need to run a 220 outlet for my tablesaw. It has a 3 hp single-phase ...
A: You will need a double breaker for a 240 volt circuit to the saw. Every panel is different, you can ...
|
| 220v hot water hookup | 5/19/2008 |
Q: but no hot water. Have 4 leads coming out of the wall. Black, red, white all with plastic jacket on ...
A: Joe, with existing wiring who knows what is actually attached to the breaker. Go to a home supply ...
|
| hvac wiring | 5/18/2008 |
Q: I just had an air-to-air heat pump installed at my 1952 home in Arizona, but I don't trust the job ...
A: It violates all sorts of electrical codes. The conduit, whether suspended below a surface or laying ...
|
| wiring house panel to air conditioner condensor | 5/16/2008 |
Q: i own a mobile home ( mfg in 1996) in cook county illnois.. and two things are in question. 1- the ...
A: Neither of these are safe. The a/c unit by code has to have a disconnect within site and no more ...
|
| timer connections for controlling outdoor lights with the help of circuit diagram | 5/16/2008 |
Q: I want to control my outdoor lights with the help of timer so that they will switch on at 6 pm and ...
A: There are several issues to consider using a timer. Right now with daylight savings time, it is ...
|
| swamp cooler wiring. | 5/15/2008 |
Q: I am wiring a new swamp cooler, motor and pump. Ive got black, white, red, green coming from my ...
A: By the wiring indicated, unless the green wire is being misused as a hot wire, there are only two ...
|
| low voltage electrical system | 5/15/2008 |
Q: My house was built in the mid 1960's and has a low voltage electrical system with relays. I am ...
A: You may be able to contact the manufacturer of the switches and see what they may have available as ...
|
| How to locate short in underground outdoor lighting wiring | 5/14/2008 |
Q: I have a 110V to 12V transformer connected to underground wire that runs under my landscaping, lawn, ...
A: Are you positive it is the wiring and not the attached load? You can take a 120 volt circuit and add ...
|
| solar option? | 5/13/2008 |
Q: I am in need of an outdoor power supply, Primarily for my pool pump (115 volts 11 amps) but also an ...
A: Cyndi I really have no experience with solar devices. I do know motors however and it would require ...
|
| Adding 100 amp fuse panel to garage from main house panel | 5/12/2008 |
Q: Mr. Cook, how are you? I have a question for you. I have a 2 car garage which I am adding on to make ...
A: I hope you have not purchased a panel yet. Considerable savings can be had by using a main lug panel ...
|
| A/C in mobile unit | 5/12/2008 |
Q: I installed an air conditioner in a trailer that I am using as a mobile laboratory. Too late I ...
A: If the a/c unit is a 240 volt unit, you can replace the 30 amp breaker with a 20 amp, or if the a/c ...
|
| wind generator info | 5/10/2008 |
Q: would like to know what is involved to install a wind generator in my home ? Thank You
A: It would connect the same as any generator. The safest method is to use a transfer switch so the ...
|
| buss bar space in main panel | 5/10/2008 |
Q: My main panel is a GE load center Cat. TL302OC Mod 2. My question is: I ran out of buss bar ...
A: It is not legal to modify any electrical panels, so a buss bar cannot be added. An alternative is to ...
|
| burcam 230v sprinkler system pump | 5/9/2008 |
Q: currently hardwired and I want to convert to a plug connection. can it be done and how? Thanks in ...
A: There are numerous plug and receptacle combinations. They are rated by the voltage and amp draw. See ...
|
| 3 way switch controlling a receptacle | 5/8/2008 |
Q: There are 2 light switches that used to be able to turn on/off the bedside lamp that has been ...
A: There is a tab on the hot or black wire side of the receptacle. It connects the two terminal screws ...
|
| wiring home for a 220 dryer | 5/7/2008 |
Q: I have an old home, and there is one 220 receptacle. However,it is attached by using 2 20 amp ...
A: First, this circuit is very light for a dryer. Most dryers are on a 30 amp receptacle requiring a ...
|
| home wiring | 5/7/2008 |
Q: I'm re-wiring my house one room at a time, I just started and had a question about proper wiring. I ...
A: With no more load than one room would put on a circuit including every load in it, the voltage drop ...
|
| baseboard heaters | 5/6/2008 |
Q: I've read up on baseboard heater installation and seem to still have a couple questions: Why are ...
A: It depends on the heater wattage for the size wire and circuit you will need. The formula for ...
|
| Flashing Interior Lights | 5/6/2008 |
Q: The lights throughout our house tend to flash quite a bit. It happens mostly in the evening but ...
A: If it is caused by a loose connection, there could be a lot of concern as it could heat up and ...
|
| faulty outlet/wiring | 5/5/2008 |
Q: I have an outlet in my kitchen that has a reset button and seems to govern several other outlets. ...
A: He is correct. Because the receptacle GFI's seem to fail so often, I use a GFI breaker. It is more ...
|
| convert one three wire circuit to two circuits | 5/5/2008 |
Q: At present, two fixtures on one switch are in parallel; so a three wire cable connects the two ...
A: The only reason there would be a three wire cable anywhere in this circuit is the hot circuit enters ...
|
| Receptacle replacement error | 5/4/2008 |
Q: I made a rookie error. I thought I had turned off the circuit to the room when I went to replace a ...
A: Look for a tripped GFI receptacle. It may be a bathroom, kitchen, or outside receptacle. If none are ...
|
| HOT NEUTRAL | 5/4/2008 |
Q: I have a hot neutral, and electricians have not been able to find the source. Can I simply ...
A: It will not affect the power bill, but it is potentially dangerous. You need to start at the breaker ...
|
| moving an electrical outlet | 5/3/2008 |
Q: I am remodeling my bathroom. When we purchased the home two walls were covered with mirrors, with ...
A: You can not make a junction box where the originals are as they would be covered by the new mirrors ...
|
| replacement gfi bathroom wiring | 5/3/2008 |
Q: I have removed the old gfi outlet, we are replacing only because we wanted a new colored outlet ...
A: The best tool a homeowner that is doing any electrical work needs is a volt tester. It is about the ...
|
| Electric generator | 4/29/2008 |
Q: I have electric generator 100KVA 380Volt 3Phase, when I used power consumption calculations standard ...
A: It would be per phase. A device pulling 100 amps is pulling 100 amps on all three legs, it would not ...
|
| 3-wire confusion | 4/29/2008 |
Q: I'm finishing my basement and can't seem to successfully add 2 lights to the existing lighting ...
A: The reason there is a three wire cable from L1 - L3 is to have the switch circuit at the end. You ...
|
| Kitchen Wiring | 4/27/2008 |
Q: I hope this is not too much for one question but here goes....I am remodeling my 1960's kitchen. It ...
A: First, the #14 wire is illegal on a 20 amp circuit as it is only rated for 15 amps. I rewired my ...
|
| caps | 4/26/2008 |
Q: Regarding those plastic twisty caps for holding wire connections; Do the wires need to be twisted ...
A: The code book says not to twist the wires together, allow the nut to twist them. As far as the ...
|
| Plasma Cutter | 4/25/2008 |
Q: I just borrowed a plasma cutter from work to start cutting some body panels off of my current car ...
A: I would not trust the wire colors on the plug as it was field installed and could be any ...
|
| 100 amp service / new a/c | 4/24/2008 |
Q: We have a home, built 1968 in Arizona which appears to have a 100amp service. We recently had an 4 ...
A: You may be just fine as is, the new unit compressor are much more efficient than the older units. ...
|
| Garbage disposal wiring question | 4/24/2008 |
Q: Howdy from a fellow AllExperts "expert" (in a computer-related area). I am about to replace our ...
A: If this will ever be inspected, using flex from the disposal will be the least of your worries. You ...
|
| overhead lighting | 4/23/2008 |
Q: I am moving into a renovated condo that was built in the 1950's. There is no overhead lighting in ...
A: It depends on the ceiling construction. It is possible to fish wiring into some ceilings. A cheaper ...
|
| Replacing an outlet | 4/22/2008 |
Q: The house I'm living in was built in 1965 and I was wondering how do you replace an outlet in a home ...
A: Turn off the breaker feeding this receptacle. Remove the cover plate to expose the receptacle, ...
|
| subpanel needed for AC | 4/20/2008 |
Q: I live in Massachusetts and need to add a subpanel for a new AC installation. My current panel is ...
A: In the long run it would pay to upgrade to a 200 amp service, this is the most common in ...
|
| emigration | 4/20/2008 |
Q: Im a qualified electrician with wiremans license. I have my own business for 12 years that employees ...
A: Each state has its own Electrical licensing board. Check with the state you are moving to at the ...
|
| unbalanced panel? | 4/19/2008 |
Q: main electrical panel is reading 118v(L1 to ground or neutral) and 126v(L2 to ground to neutral). ...
A: The first thing I would do is call the utility to check the incoming service to ensure there is no ...
|
| 20 amp dual circuts with CGCI | 4/18/2008 |
Q: I am converting my garage into a woodshop. I want to run 20 amp dual circuit outlets along the walls ...
A: Most residential services are single phase, but you may be able to get three phase in your area, but ...
|
| electric overhead lights | 4/18/2008 |
Q: My son in Nashville Tn. finished off his basement. He has 4 overhead lights wired into a box and ...
A: The panel needs to be opened and this supply cable checked to see if the ground and neutral wires ...
|
| Flickering Lights In Entire House | 4/15/2008 |
Q: Cook.... I am experienceing the problem of flickering lights all over my house. On occasion they ...
A: If it is a loose connection, yes it could possibly be dangerous. I would have the electric utility ...
|
| sub panel | 4/14/2008 |
Q: I am upgrading a 100 amp main breaker panel to a 200 amp panel so that I can install a 100 amp sub ...
A: If it is a cable vs individual conductors, a cable will not have to be in conduit. You need a 4 wire ...
|
| Brown outs... Sort of... | 4/13/2008 |
Q: Occasionally, I will get brown outs in my house. One item seems to pull power from another. At ...
A: You have said you moved some around to attempt to balance the panel. I am not sure what readings you ...
|
| 3 Way Switch Circuit reads 34-38 V when OFF | 4/13/2008 |
Q: I have wired 2 vent lights between two 3 way switches on a staircase. After wiring per the attached ...
A: Due to voltage being available in three configurations, there will be some bleed through voltage of ...
|
| please help | 4/11/2008 |
Q: We just moved into a new place. When we attempted to plug a light into an outlet here, there was a ...
A: You need to verify what is going where. It appears the cable with the black, red and white is the ...
|
| genarator | 4/11/2008 |
Q: I have a 1300 power watt generator it will start but nothing will run off it iam trying to see do i ...
A: I am not sure on this particular model or what you are attempting to operate, but the formula for ...
|
| taking power off a switch circuit | 4/9/2008 |
Q: Can I take power from a switch circuit to energize a base plug? The switch will not operate the plug ...
A: It depends on how the switch is fed. Open the switch junction box, if there are white neutrals ...
|
| Adding a light and receptacles | 4/6/2008 |
Q: I have an existing Flourescent light in my Garage, but it is inadequate. I am planning on enclosing ...
A: There has to be at least one receptacle in this area now. You can pull this one out, add an ...
|
| load center balancing | 4/5/2008 |
Q: does each side of incoming legs(120 each leg) need to be balanced?does this lower electric bill?how ...
A: It does need to be balanced or a 240 volt appliance coming on and pulling a lot of amps can cause ...
|
| Connecting to meter | 4/5/2008 |
Q: I am running the wires for a hot tub. It calls for 6-3 wiring. We are having to come off the meter ...
A: This is correct. However another problem to consider, in my location unless the meter box is ...
|
| Old Wiring | 4/4/2008 |
Q: I am simply replacing old outlets with new ones, there are two wires both with brown fabric ...
A: The most simple device every homeowner doing any electrical work needs is a volt stick. You can get ...
|
| Wire Types | 4/4/2008 |
Q: What is the difference between SEU wire and NM-B.
A: SE is a service entrance wire and the consensus of distributors is the U possible stands for ...
|
| Residential wiring | 3/31/2008 |
Q: i need to know how does a bypass switch works when connected to a photocell.
A: A photocell is in fact a 120 volt device. It has the black hot circuit wire and a white neutral ...
|
| Convert pull down lamp to switched | 3/31/2008 |
Q: John, quick question on how to convert a pull down light to a switched light. I have a new cable ...
A: If your new cable is connected to the white and black in the original light junction box, at a ...
|
| Question concerning wiring to 100 amp panel | 3/27/2008 |
Q: We are replacing an older outside service panel, which this identical panel is no longer available, ...
A: Usually and is the case in my area, the utility makes this connection. Check with the utility and if ...
|
| GFCI wiring | 3/26/2008 |
Q: I have a question that I'm sure will come with a relatively simple answer. Maybe I'm just not in ...
A: You did great describing what you have. Connect the incoming hot circuit to the line side of the ...
|
| 3 phase wiring - converter to 3 machines | 3/25/2008 |
Q: We are building a shop, have done electrical home wiring extensively but have never used 3 phase ...
A: First, yes you can use a 220 disconnect as suggested to turn it off. As far as the converter, I do ...
|
| Sub Panel | 3/21/2008 |
Q: I now have a 100 Amp QO Square D distribution panel that is full. I want to add a sub panel, I only ...
A: A 125 or 150 amp main breaker alone is over $100, so I would search for one without the main in it. ...
|
| 220 3phase conversion | 3/21/2008 |
Q: Mr. Cook, I am in need of some advise! I am a member of a small church that is doing some ...
A: Unless a separate service was installed, which is illegal, I do not see how you will have a panel ...
|
| Electrical problem in home | 3/20/2008 |
Q: i am having a serious problem with my mybile home. half of the home's power availability decreases ...
A: This is a classic utility problem. One of the incoming feeder wires is either loose or damaged. Call ...
|
| Sub Panel | 3/20/2008 |
Q: I now have a 100 Amp QO Square D distribution panel that is full. I want to add a sub panel, I only ...
A: The sub panel does not have to be the same brand as the main panel, however you will have to have a ...
|
| Low voltage | 3/19/2008 |
Q: We are constantly having to replace the bulb in our closet. The new bulb only lasts a few weeks and ...
A: It sounds like a loose connection. This is very apparent with the dim light and occasionally ...
|
| Shallow Well Jet Pump Motor | 3/17/2008 |
Q: I have a jet pump on a shallow well for my sprinkler system in South Florida. The system was in ...
A: There is a 99% chance the capacitor will correct the problem. It absolutely will not operate without ...
|
| Sprinkler controller problem | 3/16/2008 |
Q: I have a problem with one of my sprinkler controllers. Background -- I think I have a more ...
A: Mike it appears to me with the provided information there is a defective wire somewhere. It seems to ...
|
| Air Compressor Wiring | 3/16/2008 |
Q: I have an air compressor that is a 240V/30A/60Hz/1PH (information directly off compressor). I want ...
A: The only stupid question I have ever been asked is how much does it cost for power for a skylight? ...
|
| outlets | 3/14/2008 |
Q: How many outlets can you have on one 20 amp breaker.
A: You can have an infinite number of receptacles on any circuit, the code only states that the ...
|
| Subpanel Wiring | 3/13/2008 |
Q: I want to set up a subpanel for my kitchen wiring -- isolated from the rest of the house ...
A: If you do not run 240 volts, all of the new panel load will be on one buss bar in the main panel and ...
|
| Stove ties to other outlet? Potential fire hazard? | 3/12/2008 |
Q: I found lights in two bedrooms and light/fan in the washroom were out tonight. The living room ...
A: It appears you have lost one of the two incoming power legs, thus you do not have a full 240 volts ...
|
| Correcting Double Tapping in Illinois | 3/10/2008 |
Q: I recently had my condo inspected and the inspector noted double tapping in the electrical panel. I ...
A: You are correct. This is the acceptable method according to the National Electrical Code. You can ...
|
| Electrical Phase question | 3/10/2008 |
Q: I have been experiencing probems with brownouts in my home. Sections of the house have low voltage ...
A: This transformer would not cause the problems you have. I would first call the utility and let them ...
|
| two way switch ceiling fan | 3/9/2008 |
Q: My husband removed a ceiling fan that is wired for a two way switch. We now have three wires coming ...
A: With two switches controlling the same device, it is a three way switch circuit. It is almost ...
|
| Possible overload and breaker panel troubles | 3/8/2008 |
Q: Below is a posted background description of my problem, and a rsponse from one of the electricians ...
A: Bob is correct. When you turn on any of the burners or controls of the stove, you are back feeding ...
|
| Wiring my shop for power | 3/6/2008 |
Q: I have a 200 amp panel in my house and i have found a 220 plug in my carport. My question is can i ...
A: This is a very often asked question. I can tell you from experience, most likely this receptacle was ...
|
| lights dim when turned on | 3/6/2008 |
Q: In the last two days, the lights in the bathroom and one bedroom come on dim unless the furnace is ...
A: This is classic of a slightly loose connection somewhere in this circuit. When the furnace is on, it ...
|
| 220 v circuit | 3/5/2008 |
Q: I live in northern NJ is it allowed to wire a second receptacle (outlet) on a 220 v circuit so I can ...
A: Yes, you can do this with no problem. The code states as long as the connected load does not exceed ...
|
| 3-way wiring | 3/4/2008 |
Q: I want to wire 2 light fixtures with two (3-way) switches. I can get one light to work, but not the ...
A: A three way or four way is a very complicated circuit. It is almost impossible to just write out the ...
|
| electrical buzzing | 3/3/2008 |
Q: We live in a two story house. There is a buzzing coming from the ceiling in the first level family ...
A: It is very difficult to tell, but when you hear this buzzing, turn off breakers one at a time until ...
|
| 220 baseboard heater | 2/28/2008 |
Q: I'm adding a Marley baseboard heater to my tv room. I want to add a thermostat to the heater, but i ...
A: For a 240 volt circuit you will not need the white wire as it would be a neutral for a 120 volt ...
|
| Electric outlets | 2/26/2008 |
Q: I remodeled a room and used 12 gauge wire and 20 amp circuit breaker. I needed to extend the wiring ...
A: #14 is only good for 15 amps and should not be connected to this circuit. You can make it correct by ...
|
| broken light switch. | 2/25/2008 |
Q: When opening an old receptacle to replace the light switch, I found hot(black)line going in and ...
A: I need to be sure we are speaking about the same devices. A receptacle is a device with usually two ...
|
| 240 volt electric heat circuit | 2/24/2008 |
Q: I installed a 30 amp 240 volt circuit that runs 3 - 1600 watt in-wall heaters in my unfinished ...
A: On the thermostat boxes, if there is a ground screw on the thermostat, remove the paper tab that ...
|
| ceiling fan installation | 2/23/2008 |
Q: I am installing a ceiling fan with a remote control in a box replacing a light fixture that was ...
A: You will need to use a volt tester to indentify the correct wires. One can be purchased at any home ...
|
| power supply to instant water heater | 2/20/2008 |
Q: Instead of adding a junction box to power Chronomite Instant-Flow water heater, can I simply attach ...
A: No. Any standard receptacle will have a maximum rating of 20 amps. This requires a 30 amp circuit ...
|
| Outdoor GFI problem | 2/19/2008 |
Q: I have an outdoor pond. Before winter I put an areator pump and a heater in the pond to provide air ...
A: If you use a single outlet receptacle instead of a duplex with two outlets, it will be considered a ...
|
| Power to the she | 2/19/2008 |
Q: I would like to install a new breaker panel in the house first of all, second of all I wanted to ...
A: I would go with a 200 amp 240 volt service for the main panel. This is the most common and will be a ...
|
| Several Electrical questions about re-wiring | 2/18/2008 |
Q: I am remodelling my kitchen and I have to move some of the outlets and install a switch and a 50-amp ...
A: 1. No. The box must be accessible without removing any permanent structure. It may be undesirable, ...
|
| Plug in chandilier with round black 3 prong plug in cord | 2/17/2008 |
Q: Can I convert a plug in chandilier (under subject above) to a direct wire in ceiling box? If I cut ...
A: It can just be sure to connect correct polarity. The neutral wire is usually identified by ridges on ...
|
| Strange wiring? | 2/17/2008 |
Q: We moved into a home built in 1952. I have no idea how old the wiring is in the home. I have motion ...
A: I would be more inclined to say the fixtures have failed as none were corrected by replacing a bulb. ...
|
| Recessed lighting in the basement | 2/16/2008 |
Q: I would like to install highhats in my basement.It has 7' foot ceilings and measures about 25'x 14'. ...
A: The can size would totally be personal preference. I like a lot of light and would use the 6's, ...
|
| Bad socket | 2/15/2008 |
Q: We have a socket in our family room that had a surge protector extension chord - we had our laptops ...
A: Most likely the overload on this particular receptacle has damaged it, and plugging a device back ...
|
| subpanels | 2/15/2008 |
Q: i recently installed a new subpanel in an addition of an existing building. after all load ...
A: If pulling the meter kills the entire electrical feeding the structure, the inspector is incorrect. ...
|
| Baseboard Heater. | 2/14/2008 |
Q: I AM replacing my baseboard heater and wall thermostat..The old thermostat had 4 wires...2black...2 ...
A: Usually the two black will be the hot circuit, verify this. The two blue should be to the load or ...
|
| Boathouse circuit | 2/13/2008 |
Q: We're having a boat lift installed on our lot & need to extend service from our power pole to the ...
A: #8 copper is only rated for 50 amps, so you need to step up to 6/3 from the power pole to the shed ...
|
| strange house wiring - ceiling fan installation | 2/12/2008 |
Q: I need to add to a question asked previously on 8/18/06 and answered by R. Cunard. The previous ...
A: You do need to change out the box as it has to be rated for a fan. The best replacements I have seed ...
|
| electrical | 2/10/2008 |
Q: I used a receptacle tester to test my electrical plugs. Four plugs in one room showed hot/neutral ...
A: 1. The neutral and hot reverse can cause electronics to fail. It is most likely only reversed on one ...
|
| New Refrigerator & Generator. Ok? | 2/9/2008 |
Q: I am needing to buy a new Refrigerator, and considering either the Amana AFI2538AES or the Maytag ...
A: It will probably survive better than an old unit as the compressors are more energy efficient and ...
|
| hooking up wiring | 2/8/2008 |
Q: Have a two part question. First what limit you recommend when hooking up wires in juntion ...
A: 1. It depends on the connector. I do not use the standard yellow or red wire nuts. There is a better ...
|
| electrical outlet has no power flowing.. | 2/8/2008 |
Q: I recently was replacing electrical outlets in the home. It went ok except one electrical outlet ...
A: Disconnect the wires from with the breaker off to this receptacle. With the wires free and not ...
|
| tripping breaker 15A | 2/7/2008 |
Q: my house is 4 years old and today a 15A breaker flipped on me, shutting the basement lights off and ...
A: Something is creating a short on this circuit. Try unplugging anything that is on this circuit and ...
|
| standby generator | 2/6/2008 |
Q: Cook, thanks for being available! My question concerns powering our home with a standby generator. ...
A: The formula for determining the amps available is: Watts divided by volts = amps ...
|
| double light switch wiring | 2/6/2008 |
Q: I am replacing a single light switch with a double switch to operate 2 sents of double lights. ...
A: This may be fine, it depends on whether the white that is connected is a part of the switch leg, or ...
|
| wiring 4 wire therostat to 2 wire forced air heater | 2/4/2008 |
Q: We have an older forced air furnace (1950's), it works fine except we needed a new thermostat. We ...
A: On your new thermostat, there are two incoming wires and two are the outgoing, so one set will not ...
|
| new panel installation | 2/2/2008 |
Q: Mr. Cook: I am installing a new 200 amp service with the load center approx. 30 feet (wire length) ...
A: If these are copper conductors the sizes are correct. The second panel will still be considered a ...
|
| 2 pole CB question | 2/1/2008 |
Q: I am running a 2/3 UF cable buried from my house panel to a subpanel in an outbuilding. I hope to ...
A: Assuming this is copper, it is only rated for 115 amps, so fuse it with a 100 amp breaker. I have ...
|
| Switches at top of stairs | 1/31/2008 |
Q: I am currently renovating my basement. The house was built in the early 70's. At the top of the ...
A: You are correct, and this would be a three way switch circuit. The most simple resource is a manual ...
|
| wiring an electrical sub panel | 1/31/2008 |
Q: can you show me a diagram on what i need to do to feed a sub panel off my main panel i have 200 amp ...
A: The best resource for this is a manual titled " Basic Electricity " . It is available in the do it ...
|
| GFCI w/switch installation | 1/29/2008 |
Q: I will be replacing existing GFCI outlet with one with the switch. I will run a new wire to feed new ...
A: On this particular GFI, it appears there is only one neutral connection. Attach a short white wire ...
|
| range hood | 1/28/2008 |
Q: my mothers range hood burnt out , her trailer is like a 1967 , the wiring coming into it seems to be ...
A: I agree but the most simple way to know is to make sure all wires are loose and not touching with a ...
|
| open neutral, | 1/28/2008 |
Q: 1/2 of a circut is not working, we have checked all the plugs and switches. the breaker switches off ...
A: Make certain there is not a GFI receptacle in this circuit that is tripped, it could even be ...
|
| Landscape lighting | 1/27/2008 |
Q: I am going to use a multi tap transformer for a low-voltage landscape lighting project. I will need ...
A: I would check at any home supply that you would purchase the lights from to see what types of ...
|
| Wiring a L1430P locking plug | 1/26/2008 |
Q: I have a camper that says :This connection is for 120/240 volt, 3 pole, 4 wire 60 hertz/50 amp ...
A: With the 50 amp split into a 30 and a 20 amp, my concern is these are two separate 120 volt ...
|
| electric baseboards | 1/26/2008 |
Q: I'm updating my kitchen and want to replace the electric baseboard and put a digital thermostat in, ...
A: As long as the voltage of the new heater and thermostat match the existing, yes both can be ...
|
| motion light | 1/25/2008 |
Q: I have an existing motion light and a standard light on the same switch. Standard light stays on, ...
A: Most motion lights are wired internally with the motion sensor connected directly to the fixture ...
|
| Compressor wiring | 1/24/2008 |
Q: Mr. Cook, you were very helpful with my closet lighting problem a couple of weeks ago - thanks! ...
A: If you have not worked in a live panel, do not attempt it. # 10 is only good for 30 amps max, so the ...
|
| thermostat installation | 1/23/2008 |
Q: I am trying to replace an older thermostat with a new Honeywell programmable. We have a heat pump, ...
A: C is the common 24 volt connection for both stats. G is the indoor fan for both. Y is the compressor ...
|
| Fan on a three way switch | 1/21/2008 |
Q: J- I am upgrading an existing ceiling fan. The current fan did not have adequate support so I ...
A: You did not state if you want three way control, or to control the fan with the unit switch. The ...
|
| 3 way switch to contol half outlet | 1/21/2008 |
Q: I have one half of an outlet that is controlled by a 3-way switch. The problem is that one of the ...
A: First, are there three wires to each switch? If so, it is a matter of switching the wires to the ...
|
| hydronic baseboard heater wiring 220 volts | 1/20/2008 |
Q: just purchased a hydronic heater 3UG30 with thermostat 3UG32 HEATER HAS 2 wires themostat has 4 ( ...
A: On a 120 volt thermostat, line 2 would be the neutral, not another power line. I do not believe this ...
|
| halogen light | 1/19/2008 |
Q: my new light requires live,earth& neutral only, but i have 4 reds,2 black,2 yellow and dont know ...
A: Sorry for the delay, I have been out of town. I need more clarification. Are the wire colors listed ...
|
| ceilingfan installition | 1/18/2008 |
Q: trying to install ceiling fan with light package. house built in early 70's found lights are hotted ...
A: There is only a two wire cable going to the switch. One of the white wires should have been color ...
|
| 2 wire from panel, 2 wire to light, 3 wire to other lights??? | 1/16/2008 |
Q: From there, there was a 3 wire going upstairs, and another 2 wire going to a light fixture 5 feet ...
A: The question was incomplete. The last partial sentence was: " When I tried connecting the ...
|
| Furnace/Humidifier wiring | 1/16/2008 |
Q: I installed a whole house humidifier to my furnace. I have a heat pump and gas-fired furnace. ...
A: The most simple way to control it will be with a sail or pressure switch installed in the supply ...
|
| Arc fault in transfer switch. | 1/14/2008 |
Q: I am wiring a new home I am building that has a standby generator with an auto transfer switch. I ...
A: Gary, we have installed many emergency generators for entire building power, and I can not recall ...
|
| euro appliances (washer / dryer ) moving to new home in the u.s. | 1/13/2008 |
Q: in one form or the other has been asked before, but in my vast ignorance, the answers have failed to ...
A: The problem is that these units may be 220 volts, but it is a single line 220 volts. In the US, the ...
|
| Getting 120v from 240v | 1/13/2008 |
Q: I am replacing an electric range with a gas range, but I need a 120 receptacle for the electronics ...
A: Yes. You will need to go into the panel. If you have never worked in a live panel, it is extremely ...
|
| Curcuit Breaker Malfunction | 1/12/2008 |
Q: Two circuit breakers in an open subpanel were accidentally switched to the off position when an ...
A: There are contacts inside of a circuit breaker that open on a higher current draw that the rating of ...
|
| Stove controlling the lighting | 1/11/2008 |
Q: Just last night the power suddenly went out to 4 circuits in our home (none of their breakers went ...
A: It appears you have lost one of the two incoming power legs. When you turn on the stove, the burners ...
|
| Lights surge when appliance turns on | 1/11/2008 |
Q: I just bought a 35 year-old house. I've replaced the disposal and had an electric washer and dryer ...
A: This could be potentially a dangerous situation. I am not trying to alarm you, but the fact appears ...
|
| single or 3 phase | 1/10/2008 |
Q: we are building a redsidential development in kenya and have differing opinions as to wheter we need ...
A: I am not certain what voltage is present, but the formula to determine amps is: Watts divided by ...
|
| Series circuit | 1/10/2008 |
Q: I am installing two light fixtures in my closet. It is wired in series with two 60w light fixtures ...
A: In this configuration, at the first 60w bulb, entering this junction box will be the hot circuit ...
|
| Series circuit | 1/9/2008 |
Q: I am installing two light fixtures in my closet. It is wired in series with two 60w light fixtures ...
A: So if I see this correctly, your new circuit black wire is connected to the other hot wires that ...
|
| Faulty Outlet | 12/15/2007 |
Q: We have two strings of outdoor Christmas lights and a flood light plugged into two outdoor ...
A: Scott this receptacle should have been a GFI with a reset switch. If not, carefully remove the ...
|
| A/C wiring | 12/14/2007 |
Q: I am replacing my old central air unit which is a 230volt 30amp unit.Im goimg to replace it with a ...
A: There is no neutral for a 240 volt appliance. The white wire on a four wire cable such as a range is ...
|
| Plugging my well pump into a generator | 12/13/2007 |
Q: I purchased a 5500 watt (6000 surge) generator that has one four-wire 220V outlet. I would like to ...
A: As well as the two hot wires, there should have been a ground wire from the service panel to the ...
|
| Breaker Box Wiring | 12/12/2007 |
Q: Two questions: How important is the size of the breaker relative to the application? Specifically, ...
A: For the first question, I have a 100 + year old home. I used #12 wire and all 20 amp circuits. I ...
|
| Wiring a timer | 12/11/2007 |
Q: I just bought a Intermatic timer to replace the TORK 1101 (http://www.weisd.com/store2/17oa.pdf). ...
A: This timer is using the main feed lines to continue on to the load. The main feed lines will connect ...
|
| circuit breaker tripping | 12/10/2007 |
Q: hi i was out of town when i returned home my wife told me some outlets in our house didnt work i ...
A: You first need to be sure the affected breaker is not damaged. Pull the wire off of this breaker and ...
|
| Outlet Plug Overload? | 12/9/2007 |
Q: I haven't seen this addressed elsewhere, so please forgive me if this is repetitious. My daughter ...
A: I agree it appears they totally overloaded this circuit. However I will say I have argued with a ...
|
| coridor light | 12/8/2007 |
Q: sir How ican operate my home coridor light from 3 diffrent rooms thank you Ashokan
A: This is a four way switch combination and I have no method of creating a diagram. The best solution ...
|
| Wiring Issue | 12/7/2007 |
Q: Here is my problem ... I moved into a house built in 79. The front entrance has two switches side ...
A: I believe what you have are two live circuits, one appears to be A and the other is the opposite ...
|
| 240 hot tub | 12/4/2007 |
Q: We are going to purchase a hot tub soon. Our problem is that we require a 240v service to the tub, ...
A: This is totally feasible and is the way most expansions are done. Some advice, a 125 amp sub panel ...
|
| follow-up question | 12/3/2007 |
Q: I had asked another expert, Bob, about changing a bathroom outlet that had 6 wires feeding into it. ...
A: A wire nut is a thimble looking device to connect two or more wires together. A pig tail is ...
|
| Ground fault | 12/1/2007 |
Q: To find a fault in an outdoor lighting loop supplying garden uplighters that is trippling the RCD ...
A: You COULD be on the right track. One thing to also keep in mind as you did not state the circuit ...
|
| light switch | 11/30/2007 |
Q: i have double light switch and want to run one of them to a two way light and run the other to as a ...
A: Ken, this is one of the most complex circuit to attempt to explain in writing and I have no way to ...
|
| Christmas lights | 11/29/2007 |
Q: I have some 20 count mini light strings with no conncetor ends. They are 6 volt bulbs and get ...
A: You can see how long they will last, but most likely they will either immediately burn out, or burn ...
|
| time delay breaker | 11/28/2007 |
Q: I want to install a dedicated circuit for my table saw. Manufacturer says to use a 15 amp time delay ...
A: I would contact an electrical supply and have the entire panel model number to see if they can get ...
|
| double luggin in a fuse panel | 11/19/2007 |
Q: I just bought a house and it has a 200 amp service and the home inspector told us that there is ...
A: 200 amps should be sufficient for the service, but panel wise it could be an 8 circuit to a 42 ...
|
| Electric "Outages" & Causes | 11/19/2007 |
Q: I've asked about the electricity fluctuating and causing the lights, TV's's , outlets, to come on ...
A: The utility is not sending a clean steady electrical feed to you. It may be a faulty transformer in ...
|
| Garage door sensor | 11/18/2007 |
Q: I replaced my garage door motor and sensors, but is unable to get the sensor's light to come on, and ...
A: Every manufacturer is different with their wiring colors. The only way to know if this is correct is ...
|
| exterior disconnect | 11/17/2007 |
Q: I am upgrading electrical , new main 100 amp for small house . Main is about 15 ft. from meter in ...
A: You would not have needed a main in the indoor panel as the fused disconnect is the panel main. Yes, ...
|
| Electrical | 11/17/2007 |
Q: I have outside lights with GFI receptacles on two of the outside path lights. The switch that turns ...
A: First, the switch is definitely switching the wrong wires. Second, the GFI receptacles are spliced ...
|
| HOT TUB 4 wire | 11/16/2007 |
Q: The Panel has a Double Pole Circut breaker all ready installed two pole marked 70AMP. for saftey ...
A: One detail that is not given is the circuit amp requirement of the tub. You are stating you want to ...
|
| popping sound in electrical outlet | 11/16/2007 |
Q: We have an electric heater in our home and now when it is running a strange sound comes and goes ...
A: Any receptacle and any panel making a sound should be checked for loose connections. Find the ...
|
| suggestion | 11/15/2007 |
Q: I'm asking for your advice in bringing the well pump, and septic pump wires from outside by ...
A: There is no simple way as I am sure you are aware, but what I would suggest is to install a new ...
|
| residential wiring | 11/15/2007 |
Q: I have a newly constructed house that I just moved into about 4 months ago. I recently noticed that ...
A: You are both correct, unfortunately for you there will be little that can be done now. I am certain ...
|
| electrical outlets in house | 11/14/2007 |
Q: I am a renter and the electrical outlets in my son's bedroom, the dining room, and only 1 plug in ...
A: Look through the entire structure including any outside receptacles for a tripped GFI receptacle. If ...
|
| Kitchen Swtiches | 11/14/2007 |
Q: I have two light switches and one pair of outlets all in the same electrical box in the wall of my ...
A: Only one of the two wires on the switch will be hot with the switch turned off. You need to use a ...
|
| Home florescent light | 11/13/2007 |
Q: Purchased and installed a new 24" single tube fixture and switch in a closet. It's at the end of an ...
A: There has to be some wiring crossed. I am assuming the circuit goes to the light then to the switch, ...
|
| Electric Clothes Dryer | 11/12/2007 |
Q: I moved into a rental house that equiped for a gas dryer, I have electric. The movers said I could ...
A: Before modifying anything in a rental, I am certain it would be in the lease to notify the landlord. ...
|
| electrical wireing | 11/11/2007 |
Q: how do I wire a 3 way switch? thanks
A: This is a complicated circuit that I have no way of describing in writing and have no way of sending ...
|
| South african sockets | 11/11/2007 |
Q: I bought a steamer, it has an american socket and the wires are different colors, south african ...
A: You really need to use a tester to identify the hot wire(s). You may have a voltage different from ...
|
| electrical | 11/10/2007 |
Q: I just bought a little chandelier for my hallway. There is an existing overhead light I just need ...
A: The switch feeding the light can act as a disconnect. As long as the switch is off, there will be no ...
|
| install ceiling fan to three way switch in the middle of the run | 11/9/2007 |
Q: i'm trying to install a ceiling fan with three wires.one is blue,one is black and one is white.i ...
A: If you are not referring to the wires in the fan let me know, but usually the fan is the black wire, ...
|
| Wiring an outside building | 11/9/2007 |
Q: J, I'm wiring an outside building with 2 lights and 3 outlets. The building is 50 feet from the ...
A: You of course only know what type of loads you have in the outside building, but I can not tell you ...
|
| bypass/isolation/transfer switch | 11/8/2007 |
Q: One too many blackouts here in Cape Cod. I'd like have a portable generator (kW - 10kw) on hand for ...
A: You are correct Larry. I appreciate the information as I have had this similar question many times. ...
|
| Double pole thermostat to single pole electrical box | 11/7/2007 |
Q: I recently purchased several double pole Aube 115 240D thermostats to replace our old thermostats ...
A: A line voltage thermostat is just a sophisticated switch that makes and breaks on temperature. It is ...
|
| Dimming lights | 11/6/2007 |
Q: Everytime any appliance goes on like the Washing machine or the table saw all the lights in the ...
A: This could be an indication of several things Dick. 1. The incoming service is too small for the ...
|
| 240V Receptacle from 120V | 11/6/2007 |
Q: I need a 240V 20 Amp receptacle for an air compressor. I would like to use an existing 120V 15 Amp ...
A: I would have to agree Chris. The breaker is sized according to the conductor it is protecting and ...
|
| bypass/isolation/transfer switch | 11/5/2007 |
Q: One too many blackouts here in Cape Cod. I'd like have a portable generator (kW - 10kw) on hand for ...
A: I am not sure how much more tactful I could have been with this answer. Sometimes its amazing what ...
|
| adding a 50 amp spa curcuit | 11/4/2007 |
Q: I have a 3 year old home, which has a 100 amp service panel. The home has gas heat, hot water, and ...
A: You explained it perfectly Charles. The problem is most utilities will not allow but one feed from ...
|
| thermostat wiring | 11/3/2007 |
Q: I added a zone to my boiler heating system. I added a taco pump which is connected to a taco zone ...
A: The red and white to the thermostat from the pump relay should just be a continuation of a single ...
|
| Low voltage light | 11/3/2007 |
Q: While planting new shrubs, my landscaper buried 14/2 UF wire to be used for accent lighting. Can I ...
A: Yes, this is an excellent choice for the lighting you are proposing. One thing to keep in mind is ...
|
| Changing everything in home | 11/2/2007 |
Q: Hey im looking at purchasing a 75 year old home in philly. It is basically a shell and needs all new ...
A: I am not sure if any electrical is existing at the present and if so if any of it is usable. You ...
|
| Panel wiring | 11/1/2007 |
Q: I have welder that needs a 50 amp 230 volt source. The plug on the welder is a 3 prong plug. What ...
A: 1 50 amp double pole breaker and it will depend on the cord, but you need a total of 3 conductors, 2 ...
|
| Wiring Switched Outlets | 10/31/2007 |
Q: Here is the situation...Two of the outlets in my living room are controlled by three switches. One ...
A: James you really have a mess here. If the tab was broken out on the previous receptacles, the ...
|
| Electrical socket | 10/31/2007 |
Q: When I went to open my deep freezer, I noticed that it was not freezing. I unplugged it and plugged ...
A: It may be that this receptacle is controlled by a different GFI receptacle. Make sure none in this ...
|
| low voltage question | 10/30/2007 |
Q: Greetings, I am putting in a beam detector for the end of my long driveway. That detector is ...
A: I think this is very borderline. This is a very small gauge wire to run this long of a distance as ...
|
| Lighting dilemma in condo!! | 10/30/2007 |
Q: I recently bout a ceiling light from Ikea for my dining area in my condo. After removing the cap on ...
A: Brian, you need to go to a home supply and pick up a tool called a volt stick. It is about the size ...
|
| 200 Amp upgrade | 10/29/2007 |
Q: I have a panel rated for 200 AMP service. I would like to add some amp capacity to this maybe up to ...
A: I am not sure what you are installing that would require a 400 amp service. I have a two story home ...
|
| Power Goes out randomly in house | 10/28/2007 |
| Q: I rent, we recent |
