| Subject | Date Asked |
|
| wiring a welder | 9/28/2008 |
Q: trying to install plug on welder (220). welder has a black a green and a white wire. 3 prong plug ...
A: Good morning Jason, Based on your description...it sounds like you are describing a NEMA 6-20P ( ...
|
| 3 way switch?? | 9/15/2008 |
Q: Bob, Mistake with wiring. I need to install a 3 way switch for a ceiling fan in a log cabin. ...
A: Just getting back in....saw your question in my in-box. Based on your description....the wiring ...
|
| sub panel | 8/2/2008 |
Q: I have a dedicated line running from my main 100 amp fuse box to power a electrical stove. The stove ...
A: Good Morning Tim, Sorry for any delay - have been out of the area working 6-12's...just getting ...
|
| GFI | 7/1/2008 |
Q: Master Bob, I installed a GFCI outlet in my bathroom (which is off the master bedroom) - tapped off ...
A: Good Morning Joe, Based on your description...and using only the written word - it appears ...
|
| splicing nmwu multistrand cable | 6/1/2008 |
Q: I'm trying to reattach a run of 3 conducter, 7 strand nmwu cable (in the basement on the way out to ...
A: Good Morning Jason, Based on your description...this is cable suitable for underground and ...
|
| Two power sources in one box | 5/25/2008 |
Q: I want to install a three gang box in a new bathroom. One switch for the lights, one switch for the ...
A: Per your description...yes, you can bring the 2 circuits into the one 3 gang box. Especially where ...
|
| wiring electronic balast | 5/18/2008 |
Q: How do you change out two ballast that control four tubes, replacing it with one ballast to control ...
A: Most ballasts have a connection diagram right on the front label...and if you replaced the 2 former ...
|
| adding wiring in a basement | 5/1/2008 |
Q: Bob, I am adding a bathroom in my basement. The basement was finished professionally by the previous ...
A: Good Morning Matt, Just getting back in to the office.... Based on your description...yes - it ...
|
| wiring | 3/2/2008 |
Q: how do i use the preexisting wire to run outlets and switches in my attic?My house is very old and i ...
A: Good Morning William, It's never an easy task to fish wire several stories in an older ...
|
| Wiring a chandelier off an existing switch | 12/6/2007 |
Q: I presently have a switch controlled outlet in my room. The switch is a single pole with only one ...
A: Just getting in... Based on your description...you have what we call a "switched leg" going to ...
|
| Fan light won't work after replacing bulbs | 12/3/2007 |
Q: My fan light does not work. The ceiling fan has 4 light bulbs controlled by the wall switch. The ...
A: Good Morning Glenn, We called it a day here early - getting hit by the season's first ...
|
| 240V wiring | 10/14/2007 |
Q: I have a boathouse about 350 feet from my main panel. To reduce line loss and minimize the size of ...
A: Good Morning Scott, Based on your description...if I'm following it correctly - it sounds as if ...
|
| Halloween party graveyard decor | 10/5/2007 |
Q: I have only put out Christmas or Halloween lights in the past- with no electrical problems. This ...
A: Good Morning Barbara, Always willing to help teach those that are "so willing to learn"....it is ...
|
| electrical question | 10/4/2007 |
Q: i have power to all outlets when i flip the breakers but when i plug anything in nothing comes on ...
A: Just getting back in...and saw your email. Based on your description....it sounds like you have ...
|
| Tabel Saw Wiring | 10/3/2007 |
Q: Bob, I just got a new table saw that requires a dedicated 240V circuit. The plug recommended for ...
A: Good Morning Graham, Based on your description...if you are quoting the NEMA spec ...
|
| ceiling fan | 10/2/2007 |
Q: My brother in law asked me to look at his ceiling fan as the motor was turning very slow. He ...
A: Good Morning Jeff, Sorry for an delay - must be the week for motor problems...the cooling fan in ...
|
| GFI Breaker | 10/1/2007 |
Q: I'm installing a hot tub at my home, and it is recommended that I use a 60 amp GFI. I would like to ...
A: Good Morning Tom, Decades ago...even up to a few years ago - we used to be able to interchange ...
|
| ceiling fan trips the gfci braker | 9/29/2007 |
Q: Just moved into a new condo and when installing a ceiling fan with light in the master bedroom the ...
A: Based on your description...I doubt there was ever anything wrong with either of the 2 fans you ...
|
| bathroom wiring | 9/28/2007 |
Q: I am in a 1900 victorian home. trying to add a bathroom fan controled witht the light switch. when i ...
A: Good Morning Buddy, Based on your description...it sounds like you may have connected the fan in ...
|
| Circuit Breaker | 9/27/2007 |
Q: I have a circuit breaker that carries Treadmill, Computer, TV, and A/C - We don't use all of the ...
A: Good morning Rob, Based on your description...there are several possibilites for this ...
|
| Bonding jetted tub | 9/27/2007 |
Q: I am installing a jetted tub and I am confused about the bonding requirement. There is a plastic ...
A: Based on your description...I agree - the instructions that came with your tub are not that clear. ...
|
| Adding new outlets | 9/27/2007 |
Q: Okay, need to add an outlet to second floor bathroom. It will be 20amp GFCI on 12/2, I have space in ...
A: Good Morning Cyberwork, Based on your description of the layout of this home...it does sound like ...
|
| Exhaust fan in bathroom | 9/26/2007 |
Q: I'm in the middle of replacing an old exhaust fan that the fan was not working anymore. I pulled ...
A: Never did get an email notification for your question (happens from time to time with this ...
|
| electrical wiring to shed | 9/25/2007 |
Q: I have a 12x16 shed i just constructed and want to run electrical service to it. the shed is 80 feet ...
A: Good Morning Clint, Based on your description....you may first have to start by installing a ...
|
| understanding the main panel and phase | 9/24/2007 |
Q: I have a new house. 200 amp service. The usual 2 hots and 1 neutral come from the elec co. Are the ...
A: Good Morning Cliff, Understanding how electricity is generated and distributed...and the ...
|
| Totally Puzzled | 9/23/2007 |
Q: Pulled a 12/3 w/ground NM into 200 amp panel box to connect to a 20 amp 2 pole. Main breaker and ...
A: Good Morning Fred, Good question...based on your description - I'm also puzzled how that would ...
|
| ID Open in a circuit | 9/22/2007 |
Q: I recently purchased a house for my daughter to live in while in college. I have a bunch of lights ...
A: Good Morning Laurie, Based on your description...yes - it does sound like you may have an open in ...
|
| exterior motion sensor light | 9/21/2007 |
Q: I have a exterior motion sensor light on one corner of my house that stays on almost constantly ...
A: Based on your description...it's possible the electronics in the sensing circuit for that light may ...
|
| Subpanel questions | 9/20/2007 |
Q: I am installing a subpanel in my garage and several questions have arisen. I have pulled 4 #6 AWG ...
A: Good Morning Van, Wow...that was one long set of questions...but well laid out. Based on your ...
|
| Undergound service | 9/19/2007 |
Q: I need to run 330 ft for a 100 amp service. Due to the distance what size wire would be adequate?
A: Good Morning Larry, Based on your description....only your local electrical provider can directly ...
|
| 2, 3 way switches in 1 box | 9/17/2007 |
Q: I am having some trouble rewiring a box after I did some minor renovating. I had to rebuild the RO ...
A: Good Morning Tyler, Based on your description...and based on the dozens of possible combinations ...
|
| oven wiring change | 9/16/2007 |
Q: I'm replacing a microwave/wall oven combo unit with a separate wall oven and separate microwave, ...
A: Good Morning Tim, Based on your description...clearly the new equipment and the old supply wiring ...
|
| Wiring a Welder to fit a dryer outlet | 9/16/2007 |
Q: I bought a 230v welder and wanted to change the plug on the end of the cord to fit my 3 prong dryer ...
A: Good Morning John, Although using a 30 amp dryer outlet (or a higher rated 50 amp stove/oven ...
|
| 240V in North America | 9/15/2007 |
Q: I have a number of electronic devices (plasma TV, powered sub-woofer, LASER printer) that I ...
A: You are correct in stating that the power in Hong Kong is 240 volt...with the difference being it is ...
|
| Outlet Trouble | 9/15/2007 |
Q: I have an outlet in my dining room that all of sudden doesn't want to stay working right and when ...
A: Good Morning Kristy, Based on your description...you clearly have a problem with the connections ...
|
| staples for pressure treated lumber | 9/14/2007 |
Q: I'm wiring an RV cover / camping shelter. My plan was to use UF cable from the panel to the outlets ...
A: Typically - when we are mounting UF cable on wood outside - we use the 1/2" plastic 2 nail straps ...
|
| installing new fan | 9/14/2007 |
Q: okay, my husband is installing a new fan for us - we have a double switch plate, one switch turns on ...
A: Based on your description...you've run into a common color code scenario we see fairly often with ...
|
| Replacing an intermediate | 9/13/2007 |
Q: I want to light a bulb from 3 different places without an intermediate switch.
A: Good Morning Adrian, If I'm reading your question correctly - you wish to have a light fixture ...
|
| main to spa subpanel | 9/13/2007 |
Q: I have a double 60amp breakerin the main feeding spa subpanel with #6 underground at 60 ft.. In the ...
A: Based on your description of the loads you plan to add to this sub-panel...and the fact that these ...
|
| Outdoor outlets... | 9/12/2007 |
Q: I have a 2 1/2 yr old modular house in Central New York. It is on a full concrete basement. The ...
A: Sorry for any delay...we got back from our vacation a few days later then planned...still trying to ...
|
| gas range/dishwasher | 9/11/2007 |
Q: We're putting a dishwasher in an old 1920's Bungalow and was wondering if we could run both the gas ...
A: Sorry for any delay...we got back from our vacation a couple days later then planned...still trying ...
|
| electircal | 9/10/2007 |
Q: I just convert from 100 amp to 200 Amp. Changed the wires up the mast to the panel. Installed new ...
A: Good Morning John, Sorry for any delay...we are just settling back in from our vacation..we took ...
|
| Residential Electrical Questions | 9/9/2007 |
Q: Intel: I have 200A panel in detached garage feeding 100A sub-panel in basement of small home. ...
A: Good Morning Mark, Just settling back in from vacation today...(we ended up staying 2 days longer ...
|
| Pool heater | 8/14/2007 |
Q: I am installing a pool heater that requires a 220 line. My heater has a black,red, and green ...
A: Good Morning John, Based on your description...this is a straight 240 volt heater (most pool ...
|
| 20 amp split pole breaker | 8/11/2007 |
Q: I am remodeling a basement. In the panel there is a split pole 20 amp breaker with half servicing ...
A: Good Morning Fritz, Sorry for any delay....I had answered this question yesterday...but the web ...
|
| wiring ceiling fan with new power line from box | 8/11/2007 |
Q: I am adding a ceiling fan with lights in 3 bedrooms and an exhaust fan with a light in the bathroom. ...
A: Good Morning Lynn, Sorry for any delay..I had answered your question yesterday - but the site ...
|
| wiring a shed | 8/10/2007 |
Q: Bob, I am wiring a shed at my cottage and would like some advice. My plan is to have a switch ...
A: Sorry for any delay...been incredibly busy here with electrical work. We have several projects we ...
|
| Ceiling Fan Installation | 8/10/2007 |
Q: I'd like to add a ceiling fan to my master bathroom. It has a vaulted ceiling and a large bubble ...
A: Good Morning David, As I'm sure you know - because of the inherent dangers of the electrical ...
|
| Vanity Light fixture | 8/9/2007 |
Q: OK - sounds simple, as any household project starts out to be. I just wanted to replace the lights ...
A: Good Morning Brian, Based on your description....you might consider something like a plastic ...
|
| Cooktop Replacement | 8/8/2007 |
Q: I just bought a new Kenmore electric cooktop to replace a 20 year old Kenmore electric cooktop. The ...
A: Good Morning Mike, Based on your description....your old cooktop had the standard 2 wire feed ...
|
| old glass fuse 30 amp | 8/7/2007 |
Q: My husband and I are looking at buying our first home. Built in 1950, this house has not had it's ...
A: Good Morning Rebecca, Based on your description...you've encountered a typical scenario...an ...
|
| Condensation on wires in light fixture | 8/6/2007 |
Q: Both bulbs had burnt out in a hallway light. After about a week, I went to change them. When I took ...
A: Rod, Based on your description...further examination to determine the root cause / source of the ...
|
| new outlets in basement | 8/5/2007 |
Q: I'm finishing my basement and will be adding electrical outlets. I've heard different things from ...
A: Good Morning Jim, If you are asking these questions to experienced licensed electricians that are ...
|
| Electrical panel box | 8/4/2007 |
Q: Is it not legal according to code to place an electrical panel box 1 to 2 feet behind a door. I have ...
A: Good Morning Alfred, Based on your description of this installation...I'd go with "electrician" ...
|
| No ground wire to connect... | 8/3/2007 |
Q: The living room has no wiring except for the outlets, no lighting what so ever. I installed a ...
A: Good Morning Manuel, Based on your description...connecting the ground wire to the metal box will ...
|
| Wiring my ceiling fan | 8/1/2007 |
Q: I am trying to hang a ceiling fan that is hanging from a 14 ft ceiling. We battled through the ...
A: Good Morning Jeremy, Sorry for any delay - we've been straight out against the wall here with ...
|
| ;Installing new ceiling fan w/o existing ceiling light | 7/31/2007 |
Q: We have a new ceiling fan for our bedroom & there is no existing light fixture at the desired ...
A: Sorry for any delay - we are straight out here against the wall with the summer rush for electrical ...
|
| home wiring problem | 7/29/2007 |
Q: While putting a screw into drywall to hang a speaker, the screw hit an electrical wire causing ...
A: Good Morning Larry, Just getting back into the office....saw your question in my inbox. Based ...
|
| partially open neutral | 7/28/2007 |
Q: The wires i am having issues with are for the dryer.It is on its own breaker. My circuit tester ...
A: Good Morning Don, Based on your description...it sounds like you have a 120 volt dryer (possible ...
|
| Backup generator for hot tub | 7/27/2007 |
Q: I've got a 5KW gas generator and have installed a 10 circuit transfer switch next to my electrical ...
A: Sorry for any delay...I did not get an email informing me of your question (happens from time to ...
|
| underground wire to a shop | 7/26/2007 |
Q: I have shop that is about 300 feet from my house that I want to run electricity to. I will have a ...
A: Good Morning Jon, Based on your description....you'll need at least a 100 amp sub-panel (200 may ...
|
| Wiring Subpanel in Pole Barn | 7/25/2007 |
Q: Bob- I'm in the planning phase of upgrading the underpowered electrical system in my pole barn which ...
A: Based on your description....you are already far ahead of the curve by being in the "planning phase" ...
|
| 10 receptical power strip | 7/24/2007 |
Q: I am installing a power strip on the wall of my shop to replace the receptical already in place. I ...
A: Good Morning Chadwick, Based on your description, you have a feed-thru 10 receptacle power ...
|
| Temporary power 240-120 | 7/11/2007 |
Q: I use temporary power for concert sound reinforcement. Some contracts are very large venues and an ...
A: Good Morning Dean, I see there is some kind of bug in the allexperts.com program ...I'm supposed ...
|
| Sub-Panel Questions | 7/10/2007 |
Q: Master Bob: 1. Because the sub-panel had to be relocated, several of the branch circuits had to be ...
A: Good Morning Bob, I see there is some kind of bug in the allexperts.com program ...I'm supposed ...
|
| outlets and light stopped working | 7/1/2007 |
Q: 6 outlets in our kitchen, the vent hood, and a light in the hallway stopped working since we moved ...
A: Good Morning Emilie, Based on your description....this circuit has more then likely developed a ...
|
| Dishwasher/Dryer/Washer Circuits | 6/24/2007 |
Q: Trying to place a GFCI on the washer/dryer outlet. Needed to switch off 2 circuits breakers to kill ...
A: Sorry for any delay - had last minute work come in down on the coast (and still more to do there) - ...
|
| outlet wiring for garbage disposal | 6/23/2007 |
Q: My question is how is the outlet that the garbage disposal is plugged into supposed to be wired. I ...
A: Sorry for any delay - we made a last minute trip downstate for the weekend - didn't have time to ...
|
| gyproc screw in wire | 6/22/2007 |
Q: just renovated a starecase,wires were running in wall,some wires were old enough to have the hot and ...
A: Good Morning Benoit, Based on your description....this is an older home ....it appears you found ...
|
| Running a Basement Subpanel | 6/21/2007 |
Q: I have an unused 3-wire #6 cable (2 black and 1 ground) that I want to use for a new sub panel ...
A: Good Morning Christopher, Based on your description...the #6 wire you have will NOT be suitable ...
|
| 30 amp service to my shed | 6/20/2007 |
Q: Master Bob; I have a park model trailer that used to have 30 amp service. Recently the service was ...
A: Good Morning John, Based on your description - you pretty much answered your own ...
|
| BONDING OF A ABOVE GROUND POOL | 6/11/2007 |
Q: OUR OLD POOL HAD A GROUND WIRE ATTACHED AT THE BASE AND THAT WIRE RAN UNDER GROUND.. TO WHERE?????? ...
A: Article 680 of the NEC covers the rules for all pool systems and nearby equipment, devices, etc. The ...
|
| electrical outlets work light switches don't. | 6/10/2007 |
Q: So my brother was working on my moms old little house. (You have to forgive me for my lack of ...
A: Good Morning Pat, Based on your description...it sounds like your brother may have accidentally ...
|
| Amps in receptable | 5/28/2007 |
Q: I want to buy a window a/c unit, but don't know how to find the amps in a wall receptable. Thanks.
A: The amperage available at any wall receptacle depends on the size of the circuit wiring and ...
|
| Connecting two ceiling fans & four switches | 5/27/2007 |
Q: We have a patio with two existing ceiling fans. Both fans can be turned on or off by four wall ...
A: Lauderdale, Based on your description (ie. 4 switches controlling 2 fans)...it does sound like ...
|
| floodlight wiring | 5/26/2007 |
Q: Am going to install floodlights outside, running cable from box to outside, via a barn to also have ...
A: It appears - where you are talking in terms of "meters"...that this question is coming from outside ...
|
| Field generator | 5/25/2007 |
Q: Presently I am working on a single phase generator and found that its neutral is not grounded. On ...
A: Based on your description...it appears this question may be more commercial/industrial based - which ...
|
| ceiling fan | 5/24/2007 |
Q: Fan works, but lights do not work. I checked all wiring which appears to be okay. Checked pull chain ...
A: I went back thru my questions to try to find the original question and answer...it appears it was ...
|
| Electrical Outlets | 5/23/2007 |
Q: I have a room with four electrical outlets that are connected. Three of the outlets give me a ...
A: Based on your description...can I take it you are using one of the "plug-in" style testers that has ...
|
| Electrical Short/Breaker Problem | 5/22/2007 |
Q: Having a problem in the bathroom, the bathroom went dark this morning, you turn on the switch and ...
A: Good Morning Scott, Sorry for any delay - just recovering from a 4 week battle with pneumonia ...
|
| Wiring a outdoor load center | 5/21/2007 |
Q: I want to put in an outdoor load center, a 100 amp or less. From that load center, I will run a 1 ...
A: Good Morning Bill, Based on your load descriptions...I'd recommend going with a 50 or 60 amp for ...
|
| ceiling fan does not work | 4/30/2007 |
Q: My breaker tripped recently. After turning the breaker back on, I noticed the ceiling fan did not ...
A: Just getting back online from vacation mode (actually we returned from Florida a few weeks ...
|
| outlet box covers | 4/17/2007 |
Q: We are installing a screen porch which has no walls, just boxed in studs. I have roughed in the ...
A: Sorry for any delay....we just got back from our two week Orlando vacation a few days ago...and I've ...
|
| wiring receptacle | 4/16/2007 |
Q: I changed a receptacle in my bed room and now the switch for the fan light does not work. The ...
A: Sorry for any delay....we just got back from our two week Orlando vacation a few days ago...and I've ...
|
| CHANGING 3 PRONG PLUG TO 4 PRONG | 3/22/2007 |
Q: I HAVE A 3 PRONG PLUG ON MY DRYER, BUT MY NEW HOME HAS A GROUNDED 4 PRONG PLUG. I HAVE BOUGHT A 4 ...
A: Good Morning Chris, Based on your description...your new home is in compliance with Code...which ...
|
| Delta Table Saw Motor Rewiring | 3/21/2007 |
Q: Greetings from Tigard, Oregon. My question is this. I have a Delta model #36-678 Table Saw and I ...
A: And greeting back from Bangor, Maine. In order to get more detail for this motor...I went to the ...
|
| wall switch timer | 3/20/2007 |
Q: I recently bought a wall switch timer for my outside lights and front patio lights. Now there are ...
A: Good Morning Prashil, Based on your description...installing this timer switch in a double switch ...
|
| popping sound after turning on light switch | 3/19/2007 |
Q: Master Bob. I was wondering why I hear a popping sound after I turn on 2 of the light switches in my ...
A: Just getting my first chance to log in for today...been pretty straight out here with electrical ...
|
| Service ampacity & 4-pole breaker? | 3/18/2007 |
Q: My question is really in two parts (if I'm wrong about the first, I'm DEFINITELY wrong about the ...
A: Based on your description...I'll need to make some clarifications. A double pole breaker is ...
|
| Breaker Box | 3/18/2007 |
Q: I have a 60amp main breaker in my box. Which is located in the middle of the box! All the double ...
A: Running a bit behind....we had a major flood (in our basement) from a bad late winter storm here ...
|
| 220v air compressor | 3/17/2007 |
Q: I recently purchased a 220v ingersoll rand air compressor and and am trying to connect it to my ...
A: Good Morning Tom, Sorry for any delay....we got hammered by a bad late winter storm yesterday ...
|
| discontinued breaker | 3/16/2007 |
Q: Bob, I have to add a subpanel but the problem is I have an 25 y/o Main from ITE Imperial and can't ...
A: Good Morning Matt, Thanks for the kinds words....sorry I was not able to get back to you as fast ...
|
| discontinued breaker | 3/16/2007 |
Q: Bob, I have to add a subpanel but the problem is I have an 25 y/o Main from ITE Imperial and can't ...
A: After over 3 decades in this field...I know the problem of finding compatible breakers for older ...
|
| Using house ground for portable generator | 3/15/2007 |
Q: Sir, During a power outage I would like to connect a generator to my house using a manual transfer ...
A: Based on your description...No - you should not share the ground system that grounds your normal ...
|
| light swith becomes hot | 3/13/2007 |
Q: I have a dimmer switch on a 12-bulb chandelier. The switch box cover becomes hot to touch when the ...
A: Good Morning Mike, Based on your description...you may be stressing the wattage limitations of ...
|
| home electrical issue | 3/12/2007 |
Q: A lightbulb in a ceiling fixture will rapidly flash on and off when the switch is flipped on. When ...
A: Just getting in for the day.... Based on your description...there could be several possible ...
|
| 2 switches to one light | 3/11/2007 |
Q: my wife wanted to add a light switch at the bottom of stairs,there was one at the top so ran a new ...
A: Good Morning Timothy, Based on your description...you are trying to add two new 3-way switches ...
|
| Saw won't run | 3/10/2007 |
Q: I feed my workshop off a subpanel fed off a 6o amp breaker in the house panel. Wiring is ...
A: Good Morning Darrell, It's hard to be certain without more detailed testing....but based on your ...
|
| wiring electric fan heater | 3/9/2007 |
Q: Putting in 3 separate 2000W/240V wall heaters in basement rec room. (New construction floor level). ...
A: Good Morning Lance, Based on your description of the spec's...these are 8.3 amp wall heaters ...
|
| replacing power cord on dryer | 3/8/2007 |
Q: I have a Maytag Neptune with a 3 wire power cord and need to change to a 4 wire. How do I identify ...
A: Good Morning Ken, Based on your description...you are upgrading this Maytag dryer to the now ...
|
| Question about 240 volt outlet | 3/7/2007 |
Q: I just moved into a house, and my 240 volt electric dryer runs but does not heat. I've read around ...
A: Good Morning Jerrad, Based on your description and readings...you have clearly lost one leg out ...
|
| 400A SERVICE | 3/6/2007 |
Q: CAN THE CONTRACTOR DIVIDE THE AMPS AND INSTALL SMALLER WIRES TO A 400 AMP SINGLE PHASE 120 /240 ...
A: Good Morning Saul, Based on your description...for a 400 amp service you would need either 400 ...
|
| weird connection after replacing a switch | 3/5/2007 |
Q: I replaced a switch that was controlling one light and one fan. After replacement, now the other ...
A: Just getting in for the day... Based on your description...and without being able to see the ...
|
| Dimmer | 3/4/2007 |
Q: I want to replace a switch with a dimmer. Problem, the switch appears to be a 3-way but instead of ...
A: Good Morning John, Based on your description...yes - your question makes perfect sense - I'm not ...
|
| Treadmill Power Requirements | 3/3/2007 |
Q: I would like to keep a commercial treadmill in my home, and am concerned about the power ...
A: Good Morning Shawn, Although your 20 amp circuit should be able to handle the two loads - if the ...
|
| Wiring outlets | 3/2/2007 |
Q: There is a 20 amp breaker in my box that is wired to just one outlet using 12 gauge wire. I just ...
A: Good Morning Dan, Based on your description....you have two choices: Either leave the 20 amp ...
|
| Dimming lights | 3/1/2007 |
Q: Each time my 5-ton Trane AC/heater combo unit kicks on in the summer I get short term dimming on ...
A: Good Morning Dan, Where a picture can help tell a thousand stories...I went to your photo ...
|
| combo ceiling fan and light | 2/28/2007 |
Q: Fan works, light stopped working. As far as I can tell, all connections are tight. What should I do? ...
A: Just getting in....another long day here. Based on the short description...you didn't give me ...
|
| HOME TANNING BED | 2/27/2007 |
Q: THE ROOM I WANT TO PUT MY TANNING BED IN IS WIRED WITH 14 GAGE WIRE AND A 15 AMP BREAKER. THE BED ...
A: Good Morning Johnny, Based on your description....Yes - you will need to run some #12 wire from a ...
|
| Combination Switch | 2/26/2007 |
Q: I currently have an outlet down inside a cabinet, I'm wanting to remove that and replace it with a ...
A: Good Morning Phil, Based on your description...it sounds like you may have one of the wires on ...
|
| how to bid work | 2/25/2007 |
Q: how about some guidelines to bid effectively. house is a new build. approx 3000 sq ft. 75 outlets 35 ...
A: Good Morning James, I wish there really was an easy way to bid residential work effectively and ...
|
| 30 amp dryer plug | 2/24/2007 |
Q: i just bought a electric dryer.. it has a 30amp plug with the L shape.. when i brought it home i ...
A: If this is a new dryer...by 2005 Code it must have a 4 wire 4 prong NEMA 14-30P plug on the cord. In ...
|
| Power Adapter for Scanner - Specs OK? | 2/23/2007 |
Q: I bought a scanner but need a power adapter for it. The back of the scanner says DC 24V 1.1A. On ...
A: Good Morning Usuff, Based on those adapter output descriptions....and the power draw specs for ...
|
| House Wiring Issue? | 2/22/2007 |
Q: I have a situation that is puzzling. In my basement, I noticed that the laundry room light is dim ...
A: Just getting in....been ultra busy this week - first chance I've had to log-on. Based on your ...
|
| commercial elect. | 2/21/2007 |
Q: Haven't been able to locate the answer in the code book. I know you can run low and high voltage ...
A: Good Morning Giles, Based on your description...you may have passed by Article 300 too quickly - ...
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| 3 way dimmer | 2/20/2007 |
Q: I am putting in recessed lights in a family room of a home we are building and the builder will not ...
A: Good Morning Mike, Based on your description....there are clearly two possible reasons why the ...
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| by passing a push button switch fluoresent | 2/19/2007 |
Q: My fluorescent light has push button hold switch and a wall switch, I wanted to eliminate the ...
A: Good Morning Todd, Based on your description...it may be possible..unless this fixture uses a ...
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| 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: Based on your description....I'm a little confused....why isn't the electrical sub that's doing the ...
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| Diff. circuits in same box? | 2/16/2007 |
Q: I am helping someone wire a finished basement in NJ. By code, are you allowed to put two different ...
A: Good Morning Jim, Yes...it is Code permissable to have more then one circuit in a box - as long ...
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| upgrading for sub-panel | 2/15/2007 |
Q: !! I think that running a #4/3 with ground copper can be done as you suggest. I believe I can run ...
A: ...glad I could help out. When you run a secondary panel (referred to as a sub) from the ...
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| circuit breaker load | 2/14/2007 |
Q: I'm installing electric baseboard heat and need to know the max load a double pole 20amp breaker can ...
A: Good Morning Dennis, Breaker size versus amperage load is usually recommended no more then 80% - ...
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| installing a subpanel | 2/13/2007 |
Q: Is it possible to use a #6/3 AL wire that formerly provided power to my electric range to now supply ...
A: Good Morning Joe, Based on your description of what you have for materials...No - you can not use ...
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| AA-8000 aluminum wire | 2/12/2007 |
Q: My house was built in '74. I'm weighing the issue of replacing my upstairs aluminum wire, which is ...
A: Before I even begin to answer....I must tell you that I am very anti-aluminum - especially when it ...
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| "different" wall outlet | 2/11/2007 |
Q: I live in an older home (built in 1979) - there are a handful of wall outlets that are different ...
A: Good Morning Daryl, Based on your physical description....it sounds like you may be describing ...
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| GFI | 2/10/2007 |
Q: The GFI in our garage keeps tripping On that circuit there are 2 outlets(refrigerator/freezer) in ...
A: Good Morning Vicky, Based on your description...you've touched on a subject we see a lot of ...
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| 240 vOLT air comp wiring | 2/9/2007 |
Q: Can I connect strait to the fuse box if so i know that the blk wire connects to the hot and the ...
A: Based on your description....if this question is from the USA...you have me confused. 240 volt ...
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| recessed lighting ic housings | 2/6/2007 |
Q: what is the PHYSICAL difference between ic and non ic housings? I know when and where to use ...
A: Good Morning Ian, Good question...I also had the same question decades ago when I first compared ...
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| water leaked into lighting | 2/5/2007 |
Q: I had a small flood in my bathroom on the second floor of my home. The water leaked into the first ...
A: Based on your description....it is possible that this chandelier may have suffered some minor water ...
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| 120v Remote/Receptacle Switch | 2/4/2007 |
Q: My dad would never use anything that was not UL approved. I recently purchase three, two-component ...
A: Good Morning Joel, Based on your description...your Dad and mine have that in common...my Father ...
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| CAUTION!!! | 2/2/2007 |
Q: MY UNCLE IS ELECTIRCAL INGENEER FOR SOMEWERE AT SOUTH AMERICA,I 'M APPRENTECE ELECTRICIAL HERE IN ...
A: I fully understand your concern for your Uncle's safety....clearly there is a serious potential of ...
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| re wiring a home | 2/1/2007 |
Q: ..
A: Good Morning Tina, The costs for re-wiring a home vary more then the price of gas lately...will ...
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| Existing non-grounded circuits in older home | 1/31/2007 |
Q: I am selling my house and the buyers are insisting that I need to pay to upgrade all non-gounded ...
A: Sorry for any delay....been working some LONG hours down-state....computer time has been very ...
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| motion lighting | 1/30/2007 |
Q: I have 4 lights in front of my house, all 4 are controlled by two different switches, 1 in the ...
A: Good Morning Terry, Sorry for any delay....been working down-state...just getting back in. ...
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| GFI installation | 1/29/2007 |
Q: Master Bob, Recently the GFI that powered the outlet to my refrigerator tripped. I reset it only ...
A: Based on your description...you've touched on the reason why Code permits fixed appliances ...
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| Recessed Lighting | 1/27/2007 |
Q: Can you advise tips on distance from outside walls of rooms to install recessed can ceiling lights. ...
A: Good Morning Sandy, There is no exact formula that applies to every situation....the count and ...
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| two single pole switches | 1/25/2007 |
Q: I want to add a receptacle after two single pole switches. This receptacle will be the end of run. ...
A: Good Morning Patrick, Based on your description....how (and if) you'll be able to accomplish ...
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| 100 amp to 200 | 1/24/2007 |
Q: i just bought a modular home and it has a 100 amp breaker box inside i need to install a combo meter ...
A: Good Morning John, Based on your description....if you are trying to find a 100 Amp meter/panel ...
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| Replacing old thermostat; can't figure out wiring | 1/23/2007 |
Q: I want to replace the existing manual thermostat in our apartment with a programmable unit. We have ...
A: Based on your description.....your original thermostat (the Honeywell model # T6575D1009) and the ...
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| wiring a replacement thermostat | 1/21/2007 |
Q: I wish to replace my current non programable thermostat with a slitely used Honeywell programmable ...
A: Based on your description...and without exact model numbers of both thermostats (as well as what the ...
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| Dryer Wiring | 1/20/2007 |
Q: I am slowly remodeling an old farmhouse. As i tackle each room I make sure everything is up to code. ...
A: Good Morning John, Congrats on your efforts to bring this old farmhouse up to Code...it will not ...
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| Is our house normal? | 1/19/2007 |
Q: Master Bob, I am confused. The outlets in my office (1 wall) and in closet next to the office went ...
A: Based on your description...I wouldn't go calling ghostbusters just yet. There are several ways a ...
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| 4way wiring in family room | 1/18/2007 |
Q: Sir: I am 4 way wiring the switches in a new family room ( so you can operate lights from all entry ...
A: Good Morning Mark, Based on your description of symptoms...it sounds like you have a traveller ...
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| Single pole and grounded outlet wiring | 1/15/2007 |
Q: Master Bob, I have installed a single pole grounded outlet combo and I want to control the outlet in ...
A: Sorry for any delay...Tammy's father got rushed to the hospital Sunday night for emergency heart ...
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| Wiring through attic in mobile home. | 1/14/2007 |
Q: I have a mobile home with about a 6" attic space. I need to run a wire about 10' to a hole in the ...
A: Good Morning Joe, Based on your description....fishing wire in this space may be a little ...
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| Ceiling lighting | 1/13/2007 |
Q: You've been of great help in the past so I thought I would hit you up once more. I'm in the ...
A: Good Morning Bob, Glad I was able to be of help in the past...but out of the almost 2,000 ...
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| short to ground | 1/12/2007 |
Q: With a multimeter, how do I check for short to ground?
A: Good Morning Jennifer, Most of today's multimeters have a digital display - but the procedure is ...
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| replacing d.r. hanging light fixture. | 1/11/2007 |
Q: Master Bob, I am replacing the hanging light fixture in the dining room of our late 1920's home. ...
A: Good Morning David, Based on your description...this 80+ yr. old home still has the original ...
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| recessed lighting | 1/10/2007 |
Q: Bob Thanks for all the help with the recessed lighting, I contacted a local supplier and they re ...
A: ...glad I was able to be of some help....and I'm sure your local salesman will be able to assist you ...
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| recessed lighting | 1/9/2007 |
Q: Bob I am refinishing my basement and installing recessed lighting. I am installing 4" Halo new ...
A: Good Morning Brandon, Based on your description...you may need to do some lumen and candlepower ...
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| Replacing switch with switch/outlet combo | 1/8/2007 |
Q: I have an existing switch controling an overhead light. The power comes in through the light ...
A: Good Morning "Somebody", Based on the wiring description...you will not be able to use the ...
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| Replacing a Ceiling Fan with a Regular Light Fixture | 1/7/2007 |
Q: Sir, I have nearly the same problem as in a previous blog. I wanted to replace a ceiling fan with ...
A: Good Morning Mike, Not sure which previous answer you refer to ....I get a lot of similar ...
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| Baseboard Heating problem | 1/5/2007 |
Q: I went to a single family home recently to check out a heating problem with the baseboards. The ...
A: Good Morning Todd, Based on your description...this homeowners system doesn't sound too ...
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| Thermostat | 1/4/2007 |
Q: I am hoping to install an in-wall electric heater,120v. The unit has a black(hot), a white ...
A: Based on your description of the single pole thermostat and 120 volt heater..(where this sounds like ...
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| Short switch wires | 1/3/2007 |
Q: In Bathroom I am putting new exhaust fan, light, heater.This is an addition put on 30 years ago, no ...
A: Good Morning Bob, Based on your description...there may be a couple possible ...
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| Spurious voltages and confusing wiring | 1/1/2007 |
Q: I'm replacing the ceiling fixture in my dining room and want to make sure I understand the existing ...
A: Good Morning Ralph, You've clearly made some in depth observations before changing out this ...
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| why does my recessed light turn out? | 12/31/2006 |
Q: we have a pair of recessed lights in our kitchen (they take mid-wattage flood lights), and one of ...
A: Good Morning Gabriel, Thanks for the kind words...always glad to try to help and be able to give ...
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| lighting fixture | 12/30/2006 |
Q: I am trying to install a vanity light in my bathroom. The electrical box has 3 sets of wires in the ...
A: Good Morning Raul, Based on your description....it sounds like you may possibly have a 12/2 ...
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| Hot/ground reversed and 3-way switch | 12/29/2006 |
Q: While I was troubleshooting a hot ground reversed problem, I noticed that the three way switch when ...
A: Good Morning Mike, Taking a break from year-end paperwork ....saw your e-mail. Based on your ...
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| Outside electrical outlets not working | 12/27/2006 |
Q: I read a prior post on this question, and your diagnosis was to hit the reset button on the GFCI ...
A: Good Mornin Steve, Based on your description..it appears you are referring to my recent answer ...
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| dimmer and three lights | 12/23/2006 |
Q: I connected the dimmer and for some reason the lights only light up a small amount. any ideas. I ...
A: Good Morning Tony, Sorry for any delay....I had marked myself as "away" on Holiday ...
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| wiring 2 lights with switch at end of run | 12/22/2006 |
Q: I'm wiring 2 ceiling lights in a hall - looking at it from left to right, the power comes down the ...
A: Good Morning Russell, Sorry for any delay....I had marked myself as "away" on Holiday ...
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| outlets not working | 12/20/2006 |
Q: Several weeks ago I plugged the hair dryer in the bathroom and it didn't work. None of the outlets ...
A: Good Morning Stephanie, Based on your description....this started out sounding like a tripped ...
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| arc faullt circuit breaker | 12/18/2006 |
Q: i have recently installed an addition to my house making it a apartmant. I have one arc fault ...
A: Good Morning Shane, Based on your description...there may be several reasons for this arc fault ...
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| Circuit Breaker Replacement | 12/14/2006 |
Q: I need to replace a 60A THQL 1-inch module in my GE PowerMark Gold load center with a 1/2-inch ...
A: Based on your description...you wish to replace a true 2 pole GE 240 volt 60 amp breaker with a half ...
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| Dryer Wiring | 12/12/2006 |
Q: I have a dryer with a 3 prong cord and recently moved into a house with the newer 4 prong outlet. ...
A: Good Morning Gregg, Based on your description...the home you moved into is up to current Code on ...
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| outdoor 120 lights and gfi issue | 12/11/2006 |
Q: sorry for the long description about to come - i want to give as much detail as possible so you may ...
A: No problem with the long descriptions...when using the written word - the more detail provided - the ...
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| 3-way switch upgrade | 12/11/2006 |
Q: I have a newer home (2004). I have a circuit with a 3-way switch and 2-way dimmer controlling a ...
A: Good Morning Eric, Based on your description...not quite sure what type of "2 way dimmer" you ...
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| air compressor | 12/10/2006 |
Q: I would like to install a 240v 16.5 amp air compressor using a 240v 30amp disconnect switch (w/ 2 ...
A: Good Morning Maria, Based on your description...several issues need to be addressed here... ...
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| Ceiling Fan Replacement | 12/9/2006 |
Q: I am replacing/upgrading an existing ceiling fan. Currently I have 2 wall switches that control the ...
A: Good Morning Ed, Based on your description....here's what you'll typically need to do with this ...
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| generator voltage question, probably stupid, but....... | 12/9/2006 |
Q: My new house is wired to use a generator in times of power outages. It has the double throw ...
A: Good Morning BJ, I don't consider ANY of the questions I receive here as "stupid"...I realize the ...
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| rewiring 220v plug for 110v | 12/8/2006 |
Q: I am removing my current electrical cooktop and replacing it with a gas counter top range. The old ...
A: Based on your description...you may be further ahead just pulling a new run of 12/2 w/gr. wire to ...
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| light switch | 12/7/2006 |
Q: I live in a house that is rather old. My husband's great Aunt gave it to his mother as a wedding ...
A: Sorry for any delay...just finishing up an electrical job downstate.. Based on your ...
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| Amount of Service at Box | 12/6/2006 |
Q: It's nice to get something other than a yes or no answer. I looked at my service box and noticed ...
A: ..and I've never been able to answer any question with a simple yes or no...(sometimes that's a ...
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| overheating cans - this may stump you, it has me | 12/5/2006 |
Q: appreciate your years of expert advice on this site. I check it regularly and appreciate the detail ...
A: Good Morning Davis, Thanks for the kind words...even with over 3 decades in the electrical ...
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| Wiring help needed | 12/2/2006 |
Q: Ok, here it goes. I am in the process of switching our fixtures in the house from tan to white ...
A: Sorry for any delay...just getting back from a last minute trip downstate...(family ...
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| Insulation damage at weatherhead | 12/1/2006 |
Q: My 45 year old house has aerial power service . The insulation on the cable leading into the ...
A: Good Morning Dale, Based on your description...the service entrance cable from the point of ...
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| motion detector switch | 11/30/2006 |
Q: Master Bob, I'm replacing a single toggle switch with a motion detectorswitch in my garage which ...
A: Good Morning Rich, Have no idea when your question first came in ( never got an e-mail ...
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| 240V Wiring for Oven | 11/29/2006 |
Q: A contractor's electrician re-wired the in-laws home circuit breaker panel. The oven did not work ...
A: Have no idea when your question first came in...I never received an e-mail notification (happens ...
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| Hot/Ground Reverse | 11/28/2006 |
Q: I believe I may have overloaded a circuit with Christmas lights. Two exterior outlets in the front ...
A: Based on your description...it does appear you may have overloaded the circuit or introduced a short ...
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| kenmore convection double oven | 11/27/2006 |
Q: I need to wire up a kenmore convection double oven. The oven has three wires and a ground for hook ...
A: Good Morning James, Based on your description...your new oven is in compliance with the Code ...
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| Lights dim but never used to . . . | 11/26/2006 |
Q: Recently the home lighting will momentarily dim at any given time. The only change has been the ...
A: Based on your description..there are several possible causes for dimming lights ( a service call we ...
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| GFCI on 3 wire kitchen outlets | 11/21/2006 |
Q: 25 years ago before GFCI's were popular I wired all of the counter kitchen outlets with #12 three ...
A: Just for a little trivia - When I first got in the field in the late 70's....GFCI's were still ...
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| Combination Wiring Device | 11/20/2006 |
Q: I want to remove a 2 switch receptacle and put in a combo switch/receptacle and have the switch ...
A: Based on your description...it appears either you have a typo in your model number....or you are ...
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| Wiring 3 lights on same circuit | 11/18/2006 |
Q: I am wiring a bathroom with a GFCI outlet, vanity light, ceiling light, and exhaust fan. The lights ...
A: Based on your description...it sounds like you a couple issues that may be at play here...and I'll ...
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| workshop wiring | 11/17/2006 |
Q: I recently bought a table saw that draws 9A on 220V, and a dust collector (12 A at 110V, but ...
A: ..sorry for any delay - we've been straight out here with electrical calls this week. Based on ...
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| GFCI | 11/16/2006 |
Q: I live in Michigan and have a question regarding GFCI requirements. Do bedrooms, kitchens and ...
A: If your area in Michigan is in full complannce with the 2005 NEC (not all areas have adopted the ...
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| doorbell not working | 11/15/2006 |
Q: My front doorbell isn't working...back one does. Bought a new chime box and put it up but front ...
A: Based on your description....you've replaced most of the common items used for doorbells....and if ...
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| dedecated circuits | 11/14/2006 |
Q: There are (3) 20 amp dedecated outlets available at our wedding reception site. We will have about ...
A: Based on your description....we use the term "dedicated" circuit to mean that this is a circuit ran ...
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| workshop wiring | 11/13/2006 |
Q: I recently bought a table saw that draws 9A on 220V, and a dust collector (12 A at 110V, but ...
A: Based on your description....you'd need to change quite a bit more then just the receptacle to ...
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| part of the electricity in house out | 11/11/2006 |
Q: I think I have finally convinced him we need an electrician. He just hasn't been able to find the ...
A: Sounds like having an electrician completely test over the circuit and do what needs to be done to ...
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| part of the electricity in house out | 11/10/2006 |
Q: Well, still have not found the problem...We did find out we have one light on the circuit that is ...
A: Where your friend was investigating this problem and tracing it out back some 14 days ago...and with ...
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| Electrical problem | 11/9/2006 |
Q: Called the power company and you were right on...one of the underground power legs had split. Was ...
A: That's Great !! Glad to hear your power company has you all fixed up electrically. Thanks for ...
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| Electrical problem | 11/8/2006 |
Q: Came home from work today and found the stove clock flashing and thought there was a power outage. ...
A: Good Morning Rick, Based on your description...your symptoms indicate you still have either a ...
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| Voltage stepdown 220 to 110 | 11/7/2006 |
Q: I want to go from an electric stove/oven to gas. There is a 220 outlet in place and the gas ...
A: Good Morning Michael, Based on your description...there is generally no need to use any type of ...
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| Installing cooktop - unable to reconnect | 11/6/2006 |
Q: We are remodeling our kitchen and pulled the cooktop. We are now reinstalling it. It is a Kitchenaid ...
A: Good Morning Chris, Based on your description...and an online review of the KECC508 model at ...
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| Recessed Lights | 11/5/2006 |
Q: Two of the 6 Recessed Lights in my kitchen go off from time to time for about 10 minutes and then ...
A: Based on your description...it sounds like you more then likely may be experiencing a "cool down" ...
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| Relay or connector? | 11/4/2006 |
Q: I have a pool and spa and have a dedicated pump for each. the pool pump is a 3/4 hp (15 amp) and ...
A: Based on your description...you'd probably want something along the lines of a double pole / double ...
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| dryer, short out | 11/2/2006 |
Q: I got a used dryer, after plugging it in, i turned it on then it sounded like something shorted out. ...
A: Based on your description...one of the 120 volt power legs had come loose from it's post connection ...
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| outdoor socket | 11/1/2006 |
Q: I recently used a power washer on my home and I had plugged it into an outdoor outlet. I avoided ...
A: Unless this is a fairly old home that hasn't had any new wiring or been brought up to Code for ...
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| wiring | 10/31/2006 |
Q: Yes I need to wire the main cable from the breaker box out to the power box, and need help figuring ...
A: I'd be glad to try to help you...but you didn't give me much information to go on...and with out ...
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| electrical | 10/30/2006 |
Q: I am hooking up a generator panel off my house panel.I want to put it underneath it. How far off the ...
A: Based on your description...it appears you may not have room to mount this generator panel to the ...
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| Dropped switch leg | 10/29/2006 |
Q: I have power going to a light now I need to run a switch to it I know you can take a wire from the ...
A: Based on your description...you will be running what we call a "hot switch leg" which is hot power ...
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| part of the electricity in house out | 10/28/2006 |
Q: I sure do appreciate it. I've printed it off and given it to my friend. Right now, he has taken my ...
A: ..and the kind words (and any ratings - haven't checked that section of this site yet..) It's ...
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| part of the electricity in house out | 10/27/2006 |
Q: I came home and flipped on the ceiling light in Bedroom..It flashed like when a bulb burns out...Now ...
A: Just getting back into my office....saw your e-mail in my box.. By now...your friend may have found ...
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| Electric Baseboard Heat Wiring | 10/26/2006 |
Q: I have a living room with 4 separate registers all wired into one location for the thermostat. When ...
A: Based on your description...you have a most unusual wiring arrangement at this thermostat....I drew ...
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| Bathroom ceiling lights faulty? | 10/25/2006 |
Q: We had a faulty reading light short out and trip our circuit breaker. We have thrown out the lamp, ...
A: Based on your description...it's very possible that when the reading light shorted...some minor ...
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| 400-500' Driveway light Run | 10/24/2006 |
Q: I am putting in lighting for my new driveway. The distance is about 450'. I am wishing to hook up ...
A: Based on your description...clearly you will have a substantial voltage drop issue at that distance ...
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| Low Voltage | 10/23/2006 |
Q: I Had one lighting Fixture that kept flickering when I turned it on. Then it just stayed very dim. I ...
A: Based on your description...you could have several possible causes for the readings and light ...
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| Main Panel question | 10/22/2006 |
Q: For a new house I have a 200 amp meter/12 slot service entrance(millbank). I have installed my main ...
A: Based on your description...it sounds like you may have installed the Milbank U4424-XL-200 ...
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| Ceiling Fan wiring | 10/21/2006 |
Q: Hey Bob. I just took down a ceiling fan and wired a new fan the same. The fan does nothing. Here are ...
A: Just getting a chance to log-in and get caught up on my questions...sorry for any delay - been ...
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| answer | 10/20/2006 |
Q: what size wire is used for 100amp service
A: Wiring for a 100 amp service depends on whether it is in pipe ( called a mast service) or a cable ...
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| Ground Fault Tripping | 10/19/2006 |
Q: I have recently set up an aquarium with several loads off 2 outlets daisy chained from the same 20 ...
A: Just getting back from finishing up an electrical job downstate - saw your e-mail....(got a pile of ...
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| wiring | 10/18/2006 |
Q: If I am running 4 15a. circuits, do I have to run 4 seperate neutrals?
A: Based on that brief description...it sounds as if you may be pulling these 15 amp circuits in pipe ...
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| Service Panel/Oven Addition | 10/17/2006 |
Q: I am adding a double oven in my kitchen and the installation guide indicates that I need a 240V 40A ...
A: Just getting in from the end of a very long day....saw your e-mail ... Based on your ...
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| carlon floor receptacle | 10/16/2006 |
Q: We have a round Carlon floor receptacle with a brass cover. The cover is a single, flip-up type ...
A: When we install floor boxes...they are usually intended to run equipment that sets in the middle of ...
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| Tapping into recessed lighting to power ceiling fan | 10/15/2006 |
Q: Master Bob, My living room has 4 recessed flood lights with perfect spacing. I want to install a ...
A: Based on your description...it is unlikely that you can accomplish your goals - as written - unless ...
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| Gutter/Trough | 10/14/2006 |
Q: I have three panels from left to right they are 1) Automatic Transfer Switch 2) Essential Sub-Panel ...
A: Based on the description...you've got a fair amount of electrical gear and material to cram into a ...
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| breakers | 10/13/2006 |
Q: I was using a blow dryer to shrink some plastic for my windows, when a circut breaker triped. I ...
A: Based on your description...yes - it's possible the breaker has failed internally. Most household ...
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| grounding sizing | 10/12/2006 |
Q: I am doing work at a school and we are installing 30amp recp. We are increasing the branch circuit ...
A: Just getting back into my office (we got rained out from an outdoor job - bad storm passing thru the ...
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| Thanks | 10/11/2006 |
Q: I was able to reset all my plugs by tracking down the triped plug in an unused guest bathroom!!
A: It's very refreshing to log-in to answer a question - only to find a nice compliment....Thanks for ...
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| Open Neutral | 10/10/2006 |
Q: I tested every plug in my 36 year old home and found that every plug tested to be open neutral. I ...
A: Just getting back in...saw your e-mail.. Having never used a Hubbell brand outlet tester ( the ...
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| only one set of wires into my electrical outlet boxes | 10/9/2006 |
Q: I have a break in my circuit (not all plugs are working on the same circuit) and am checking all the ...
A: Just getting back to my office...saw your e-mail in my box... As you noted....it is a typical ...
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| Light fixture wiring | 10/8/2006 |
Q: I am sooo confused! I have changed dozens of light fixtures and never had an issue until today... ...
A: Please excuse any delay...Just now finally able to log-in to address your question...was unable to ...
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| confusing light switch | 10/7/2006 |
Q: i am trying to put a ceiling fan in where a chandellier was ,,now when i turn the breaker on with ...
A: Based on your symptom description...it sounds as if you introduced a direct short when you connected ...
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| installing electric tankless waterheater. | 10/6/2006 |
Q: I would like to install an electric tankless water heater. I currently have 100 Amp panel. I have ...
A: Although we've wired up several tankless units over the years...I have no on-hand data as to which ...
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| commerical water heater wiring | 10/5/2006 |
Q: water heater for pool showers blowing fusses,it's 240 three phase.I have 119 on two wire's and 198 ...
A: Just getting back into the office...straight out here with electrical work...spare time has been ...
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| Adding new receptacles | 10/4/2006 |
Q: Master Bob, Forgive me if my terminology is not correct. This is my first attempt at doing ...
A: Sorry for any delay...we've been straight out with electrical work here...spare time is very ...
|
| replaced 3 ways switch in stairs | 10/3/2006 |
Q: I have a stairway with two switches for an overhead light bulb above the stairs. We decided to ...
A: Based on your switch operation results - it appears you either have crossed travellers...or ...
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| Flickering lights | 10/2/2006 |
Q: I have a trailer home that is 11 years old and this summer we noticed my lamp in the livingroom ...
A: Follow-up to your response : Thanks for the kind words and ratings....so GLAD you took my advice ...
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| Reconfiguring my condo's circuits | 9/30/2006 |
Q: Small dark condo needs more lights. The bedroom and bathroom are on one circuit and the breaker ...
A: Sorry for any delay...just getting back from a last minute emergency trip... Based on your ...
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| Standby Gen. wiring to circuts | 9/29/2006 |
Q: The guardian 13kw standby gen. calls for me to install a 70amp Dual pole in the house breaker box, ...
A: Having installed several of the 10kW and 13kW Guardian and Generac systems...we were also somewhat ...
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| 220 water heater | 9/28/2006 |
Q: I bought a 220 water heater with a red and a black wire. My house is an older house (40 yrs) and the ...
A: It is a common practice in most homes (old and new) to have standard 10/2 with ground ran for a feed ...
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| ceiling fan | 9/27/2006 |
Q: i have a hunter fan that has 2 black wires one solid black and one with black with white stripe a ...
A: Sorry for any delay....I did not get an email notification of your question...just now find it while ...
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| 100Amp Main Service Panel | 9/24/2006 |
Q: My panel has a 100amp main breaker. The panel has two buses, 120v each. If I total the circuit ...
A: The amperage rating of all the branch circuit breakers in your panel are not necessarily ...
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| ALL lights flickering!!! | 9/24/2006 |
Q: We have recently had flickering lights in our house. We have an older mobile home and have recently ...
A: Just getting back in from the coast...saw your e-mail.. Based on your description...yes - it ...
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| 3 phase | 9/23/2006 |
Q: I'm coming off a 480 MDP and into a transformer. Then into a 200 amp disconnect, then to a 200 amp ...
A: Just getting back from the coast...saw your e-mail come in.. Based on your description...this is ...
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| Baseboard heater wiring | 9/23/2006 |
Q: I have been upgrading the baseboard heaters in the house I just purchased, and so far have no ...
A: Based on your description...yes - you may have shorted out the thermostat...but it's hard to say for ...
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| 3-speed pull chain ceiling fan switch | 9/22/2006 |
Q: trying to replace fan switch in ceiling fan, I pulled the old one out: 1 gray wire in slot number 1, ...
A: Trying hard to follow the wiring descriptions you gave of the two pull chain switches....and the ...
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| Wire fans to a thermostat | 9/21/2006 |
Q: I need to install an intake and exhaust fan in my greenhouse. What is the best way to wire them so I ...
A: Just getting my first chance to log-in....we've been right straight out here with electrical work ...
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| Newly installed lights | 9/20/2006 |
Q: I recently removed an early 80s recessed flood light with 3 smaller, lower voltage recessed lights ...
A: Based on your description of the lighting effect - it sounds like you are describing the effects of ...
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| wiring of basement lighting... | 9/19/2006 |
Q: I have a 1 1/2 yr old modular on a full basement. The construction was full of bad luck with almost ...
A: I agree with you...seems like there were some problems with this fairly new home....hopefully they ...
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| Ceiling Light Replacement | 9/18/2006 |
Q: Master Bob, I have four wires coming out of my ceiling fixture where the prior owner took out the ...
A: Based on your description.....it's more then likely that either this former ceiling fixture was a ...
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| Wiring in a GE countertop stove | 9/17/2006 |
Q: Replacing a Jennair countertop with a GE countertop. Housing wiring has black, white and bare ...
A: Based on your description of the wiring and countertop units...you have both - a voltage and wiring ...
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| Replace recessed light with regular fixture | 9/16/2006 |
Q: I have a 1980's home with several recessed lights. I want to replace them with regular light ...
A: Just getting back in...saw your question in my e-mail... Based on your description....you are ...
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| wiring a second Electric Dryer | 9/15/2006 |
Q: I currently have a double pole 30 amp breaker running a electric dryer off of my 200 amp service ...
A: Based on your description of your serivce and loads...Yes - your 200 amp should be able to easily ...
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| hot tub hook up | 9/14/2006 |
Q: I just purchased a hot tub and now need to run the 240 wire from the tub to the electrical box in ...
A: I'll certainly try to help you... Based on your description...I'm not sure what someone meant ...
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| Choosing breaker sizes | 9/13/2006 |
Q: What is a general guide line in picking breaker sizes when upgrading the service in my home. We have ...
A: Based on your description....you'll definitely want to consider some wiring upgrades/circuit changes ...
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| 50 Amp House to RV connection | 9/12/2006 |
Q: I am planning to add a 50 amp RV connector to my house. The house is new. It has 40 amp stove and ...
A: Based on your description...you have unusual appliance circuit ratings in this new home (typically ...
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| 3 way switches | 9/11/2006 |
Q: I have 6 recessed lights that have 14/3 run to each light. I would like to switch them from two ...
A: Based on your description...you've picked the least desireable wiring method....and will need to ...
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| 110V 30A RV outlet and code regarding GFCI | 9/10/2006 |
Q: I am going to be wiring in an exterior 110V 30A outlet to the exterior of my Garage for my trailer. ...
A: Words of wisdom..? Well - I'll try.. Based on your description...not sure which code book you ...
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| pool grounding | 9/9/2006 |
Q: I've come across a problem i can't solve.It seem i've got a potential difference between my ground ...
A: Based on your description...it appears you may be reading the stray voltage that can be induced on ...
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| 100 AMP to 200 AMP upgrade? | 9/8/2006 |
Q: My fiancee, father, and myself have bought a new home in Toronto, Canada. An upgrade option offered ...
A: Your not bothering me...I volunteered as an electrical expert years ago at this site because I ...
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| Water well 220 to 110 | 9/7/2006 |
Q: Master Bob, Here's my situation. I have a detached garage(DG), about 150-200' from my house. I need ...
A: Based on your description...I'm not sure you'd really want to use this former well feeder to feed ...
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| conduit size | 9/6/2006 |
Q: Bob We are running underground power to a garage. 240 volt, 60 amp, #8 wire size, 150' What size ...
A: Based on your deescription...it appears you are feeding a 60 amp 120/240 volt sub-panel in a garage ...
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| Rehooking outside light switch | 9/5/2006 |
Q: My problem is that when My daughters boyfriend was helping me redo the siding on my house he took ...
A: As I'm sure you now know....your daughter's boyfriend made the single biggest mistake most D.I.Y ...
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| Adding a fuse box | 9/4/2006 |
Q: Bob, I just purchased a house wiht a barn on it. Currently the barn doesn't have electric ...
A: Yes....you can install a sub-panel in this barn...but there is a LOT that needs to be known before ...
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| Ceiling fan/electrical box | 9/3/2006 |
Q: I just discovered the ceiling fans in my parent's house do not have electrical boxes. NM cable is ...
A: To install ANY electrical device (whether it be a switch, light, fan, etc...) with out an approved ...
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| ceiling fan wiring | 9/2/2006 |
Q: Own a new constructed home. I installed a 42" fan in daughter's room, using remote wall mount ...
A: Based on your description..it appears this new home may have been roughed in by an electrician (or ...
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| Dryer electrical outlet | 9/1/2006 |
Q: I just bought a new house, went to plug in the dryer and saw that it has a range type outlet with ...
A: Based on your description...it sounds like the former owner may have used a NEMA 10-50R for a ...
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| Residential wiring | 8/31/2006 |
Q: I'm replacing outlets and switches in my home and I'm trying to be very careful about ...
A: Yes...not only does the Code allow 15 amp rated receptacles to be put on #12 wire and 20 amp ...
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| 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: Just getting back to my office from the jobsite...saw your e-mail and responded ASAP... Granted ...
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| gfi plug | 8/29/2006 |
Q: i have a gfi plug that does not seem to be doing all that it was setup for it is now in a wall ...
A: Based on your description....your GFCI receptacle outlet has long since passed it's useful service ...
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| gfci | 8/27/2006 |
Q: i am adding a hot tub and need to also add a 50 amp gfci,i have 8/3 wiring and am confused at how to ...
A: Sorry for any delay....we made a last minute trip down-state (family emergency)...didn't get the ...
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| GFCI connect to switch for outlet | 8/26/2006 |
Q: I've replaced switches and outlets many times, but this configuration is baffling me. I have an ...
A: Sorry for any delay....we made a last minute trip down-state (family emergency)...didn't get the ...
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| Arc Fault Breaker Trouble | 8/25/2006 |
Q: I'm wiring a new bedroom in my walkout basement. I'm havng trouble with the GE 15 Amp SP Arc Fault ...
A: Sorry for any delay....we made a last minute trip down-state (family emergency)...didn't get the ...
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| L6-30 Generator to L14-30 Transfer Switch | 8/24/2006 |
Q: O.K.. Lets get this right. The generator is a model ES8000 made by Pramac with a 13 HP GX390 Honda ...
A: Oh - wait a minute - let's get THIS right....I see you THINK you know it all ...I guess you must be ...
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| Under Cabinet Kitchen Lighting | 8/23/2006 |
Q: I want to add lights under my kitchen cabinets. I also want a single switch for all the lights. I ...
A: Yes - they do...it's commonly known as a switch/receptacle outlet combo...made to fit a single box. ...
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| L6-30 Generator to L14-30 Transfer Switch | 8/22/2006 |
Q: I have a fairly new 8000 Watt Honda Generator made by Pramac. I also have a transfer switch kit ...
A: Based on your plug and receptacle outlet configurations...clearly you have a mismatch there....as ...
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| Question about 220V wiring | 8/21/2006 |
Q: I have a few questions about 220V wiring. 1. A 220V single-phase wire has two hot wires and a ...
A: Here are my responses in order: 1). A 240 volt single phase supply CAN have a white neutral IF the ...
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| Dishwasher ground wire | 8/20/2006 |
Q: I am replacing my dishwasher and am following some instructions I found on line. I have the white ...
A: Due to the hazardous nature of the combination of water and electricity....dishwashers must be ...
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| Cooktop Wiring | 8/19/2006 |
Q: I'm replacing an old Jennair electric cooktop with a Viking cooktop and I have a question concerning ...
A: Based on your description...it appears the Viking unit may NOT comply with UL and the NEC....but ...
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| Main Circuit tripping | 8/18/2006 |
Q: my main circuit breaker has tripped 3 times in the last 2 days. It usually happens when the a/c and ...
A: Based on your description...it's possible that your main breaker may be worn internally...but more ...
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| installing a new breaker box from an existing breaker box | 8/17/2006 |
Q: i have purchased a 125 amp square d to put into a play house for my daughter. i am running 2-2-4 ...
A: Bsased on your description...this panel in the playhouse will be a SUB-panel...or secondary panel. ...
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| Sub Panel Grounding | 8/16/2006 |
Q: Mother' maiden name I am installing a subpanel on a dock to be used for a boat lift and some ...
A: Sorry for any delay - we've been straight out here with back to back electrical projects...just now ...
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| dead outlet | 8/15/2006 |
Q: to star i was changing both an outlet and switch,both had seperate feeds in a double gang box and ...
A: Based on your description...and where your house was built after 1970...odds are you've possibly ...
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| Dryer Help | 8/14/2006 |
Q: I just moved into a new house that has a four prong outlet for my dryer but I have a dryer with a ...
A: Based on your description...it sounds like you've moved into a home that is Code complaint (the 4 ...
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| Ceiling Fan installation - no ground | 8/13/2006 |
Q: I recently purchased a ceiling fan. The assembly included the blue lead, the black lead, and the ...
A: Hey Trey, Based on your description....you are either in an older home that had only 2 wire ...
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| Bedroom outlets | 8/12/2006 |
Q: Bob thanks for your quick reply. I checked for all loose wires, but all seemed fine. I do have some ...
A: ....the additional voltage readings you supplied helps me to get a better grip on the problem. ...
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| Electrical box sizes and no. of wires in conduit | 8/11/2006 |
Q: I have two questions here....I'm wiring my new shop and I have a bunch of brand new 2x4 metal ...
A: Based on your description...can I assume your new shop is of block/brick construction...? ...
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| Bedroom outlets | 8/10/2006 |
Q: 5 years house. I have four outlets in the bedroom, three of them stopped working suddenly while the ...
A: Just getting back into my office...saw your e-mail come in... Based on your description....and ...
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| sparking light switch | 8/9/2006 |
Q: How dangerous is it when a light switch sparks (only seen when it is dark).
A: Based on your description...you may (or may not) be seeing an expected "arc" at the switch contacts ...
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| Electrical | 8/8/2006 |
Q: I am installing a subpanel in a basement, what gage wire and what kind of subpanel box should I get?
A: Just getting back in from electrical jobs down-state....saw your e-mail.... Sizing of any ...
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| ceiling fan on 3-way switch | 8/7/2006 |
Q: I'm replacing a normal light with a ceiling fan w/light fixture. I want the 3-way to operate just ...
A: Based on your desired outcome...I'd eliminate the fan lead completely from the 3 way set-up....use ...
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| Trough is shocking horses - in summer | 8/6/2006 |
Q: just recently an outlet in the barn arched (with a ext cord plugged in - but unit was off) - outlet ...
A: Just getting back into my office...saw your e-mail and responded immediately... Based on your ...
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| gfi recepticle | 8/5/2006 |
Q: I live in a singlewide mobile home, I replaced the gfi recepticle, but it still doesn't work. I have ...
A: Based on your description...and the fact that this is a mobile home....you may find that there is ...
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| Convertinga 110V to 220V | 8/4/2006 |
Q: I have recently purchased an older model home. In doing some work around the house, I noticed that ...
A: Sorry for the delay....just returning from an emergency electrical job down-state... Based on ...
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| breakers | 8/3/2006 |
Q: how do you determine what size breaker to use when adding one to your pannel....thanks ray
A: Breaker sizing is directly related to load and wire size...with load determining minimum wire size ...
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| Generator Home Wiring | 8/2/2006 |
Q: First off, you must understand that so far I have run into many snags with hooking up a few circuits ...
A: Just getting back in from electrical jobs down-state... saw your e-mail. I note you refer to the ...
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| Above Ground Pool Grounding | 8/1/2006 |
Q: Master Bob: I recently helped my sone install some wiring for his above ground pool. All is working ...
A: Just getting back in from electrical jobs down-state...saw your e-mail... Article 680 of the Code ...
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| Using existing 220 wiring for 110 outlet | 7/31/2006 |
Q: I've replaced my electric cook top and double ovens with a new range with built in double ovens. I ...
A: Based on your description....yes - you should be able to re-use the 10/3 for your ...
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| adding a receptacle to switch | 7/30/2006 |
Q: I have a 4*6 bathroom that has one wall switch and no receptacles. The switch is within reach from ...
A: Based on your description....Yes - you should be able to add a GFCI receptacle outlet to this switch ...
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| wiring | 7/29/2006 |
Q: the wiring in my house is gone green and sticky and is oozing green liqiud through the light ...
A: ! Sorry I'm listed as maxed out - but I get a TON of electrical questions everyday (here and at my ...
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| changing a meter main box | 7/28/2006 |
Q: We are putting an addition on our home. My husband wired the new breaker box inside and was getting ...
A: Sorry for any delay...I had marked myself away on vacation (we've been at camp the past few days) ...
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| Kenmore Elite HE4 | 7/25/2006 |
Q: I just move into a new house and it has gas connections, my dryer is electric with a NEMA 10-30R ...
A: Based on your description....you'll need to do some electrical work (or have it done for you)....a ...
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| European Wiring in a US Home | 7/24/2006 |
Q: I am currently living in Italy for 2 years. I would like to buy some wood shop equipment for use ...
A: Having grown up on a military installtion....and having people coming here that had been stationed ...
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| Ceiling Fan Wiring | 7/23/2006 |
Q: I am replacing a ceiling fan that is about 18 years old. It has a separate wall switch for the fan & ...
A: Based on your wiring description...NO - The Code does not allow that arrangement. It sounds like the ...
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| Electrical Wiring Problem - Light Fixture | 7/20/2006 |
Q: To begin, I don't know too much more than the basics of electrical contracting. The situation: we ...
A: Sorry for just responding....between our power outages from intense thunder storms here in the ...
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| Adding second 100amp feed from Meter | 7/19/2006 |
Q: I built a new barn about 100' from my house. I want to put at least 100amps of service in the barn. ...
A: Per NEC (Code) - based on your description, neither of your suggested approaches are Code compliant ...
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| Ceiling fan wiring | 7/18/2006 |
Q: My wife and I just purchased an older lake cottage. I have a ceiling fan with lights that came out ...
A: Sorry for any delay...the site was down - could not log-in on my earlier attempts.. Based on ...
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| Ceiling Fans | 7/17/2006 |
Q: I made the most common mistake..forgot to look at color scheme when I took out the fan switch. Any ...
A: Yep...you're right...it is one of the most common mistake people make when changing out any ...
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| stove wiring | 7/16/2006 |
Q: During kitchen remodel I moved my stove and rehooked back up to power supply. Now only clock ...
A: Based on your description....your stove is now only getting 120 volts to the unit (instead of the ...
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| light fixture |
