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About David Coil/C. R. Construction
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
I can help with most any trouble shooting question. KISS is the program..keep it simple stupid. I do my best to simplify the answer.

Experience
40 yrs experience in ALL Construction trades. Kit, bath and all kinds of remodels.

You are here: Experts > Home/Garden > Home Improvement/Repair > Electrical Wiring in the Home

Questions Answered By Expert David Coil/C. R. Construction
In Category Electrical Wiring in the Home

Subject	Date Asked

elect hook up	10/3/2008
Q: I have a NEMA 10-30R 30A-125/250V FEMALE PLUGI AN HOOKING UP A WHIRLPOOL WASHER AND DRYER STACKED ... A: You need to see the connections in your panel box for this appliance. If the red and black are on ...
Standby Generator Sizing	9/27/2008
Q: I want to thank you in advance for your help. My question is actually a fairly simple two-parter, ... A: I hope I can help...as you can tell,,,,not quite multiple choice, but multiple chances. I ...
Grounding question when replacing pullchain fixture	9/27/2008
Q: Rough 'schematic' can be viewed at www.spunsimply.com/wiring.gif Hopefully it illustrates the ... A: The bare copper is for equipment safety...and GFCI protection...public saftey. It dare not carry ...
wall sconce	9/23/2008
Q: I upgraded the sconces from already working fixtures, they are both connected to the same dimmer ... A: For conversation sake..take each wire independant. You want the black wire...power source...to go ...
no power after chaning outlets and light switches	9/22/2008
Q: Recently changed electrical outlets and light switches in two bedrooms to upgrade the color of the ... A: I hate these little glitches. It can be the simplest thing, and take forever to find. I would ...
back feeding a generator	9/22/2008
Q: I have tried to back feed a generator from the 120/240V 30A and from only the 120V 20A. Either cable ... A: It sounds like you are trying to use the 30amp cycle of the generator for the house, and then ...
new kitchen wiring	9/21/2008
Q: I'm attempting the rough wiring on a kitchen project. Main breaker box (300 amp service) was a huge ... A: Why cant I laugh...it is not that often. I like most of what you are doing. If you need 3way ...
220 dryer no heat	9/17/2008
Q: i have problem with HE2 Kenmore Dryer no heat ihad a new sub panel installed dryer has two 120 30 ... A: If the motor turns...either the thermostat for the element is defective, or the heating element ...
Recepticles not working	9/15/2008
Q: In my Family Room, There were 4 spot lights and one light on one switch. I changed that with a ... A: It would be rare, but if the receptacles are on that switch...it can cause the switch to hum, and ...
tracking an open?	9/14/2008
Q: I have 3 dead outlets...6 months later 3 more dead outlets, so six total . house is 6 years olds. ... A: The term accessible applies. It means at an attic access, or at the main panel..or other very ...
3 lights go on at the same time	9/14/2008
Q: Just bought 10 yr. old house. I turn on the light in the laundry area, also my kitchen light lights ... A: Only the switches need to be addressed. It sounds like a wire got crossed in the box...the power to ...
tracking an open?	9/13/2008
Q: I have 3 dead outlets...6 months later 3 more dead outlets, so six total . house is 6 years olds. ... A: Junction boxes are installed in attics. As long as the boxes are accessible, they can and are used ...
Re-installing haning lamp	9/13/2008
Q: My wife recently had me take down a fully functiong hanging lamp to re-paint it. When I hang it back ... A: I would say that somewhere in your wiring..the hot is touching metal. In the lamp, in the ...
wrong voltage on outlet	9/12/2008
Q: I'm having a problem with 3 outlets and some track lighting in my home. I checked the outlets with a ... A: If it is not the breakers...it can be a switch in the circuit, it can be a bad connection in a ...
Three way circuit	9/11/2008
Q: I took apart an inline connection and cant seem to get the wires back right. I have a black/white ... A: I hope this works... Separate out the hot and neutral for the circuit from the breaker. Now ...
electricity kWh went up dramatically	9/11/2008
Q: my average daily electricity usage went up drastically (compared to last year) starting in March ... A: Something is consuming more....or more is on than you are aware. TV's have transformers that are on ...
Ceiling fan install	9/10/2008
Q: (And thanks in advance) I, (Like most guys) like to think I'm handy around the house. My wife wants ... A: Many older electricians use ceiling boxes for junction boxes for light circuits. The red should be ...
Kitchen floor electrified!!	9/9/2008
Q: I have an upright freezer plugged into an outlet in the kitchen and the plug had come loose. When I ... A: Some where you have a reverse polarity occuring. The hot leg has been connected to the neutral ...
power usage	9/7/2008
Q: I have a fridge that when plugged up will not cool. I replaced my original fridge because it was ... A: It is possible to overload a circuit, but that should turn the breaker off. If the breaker is off, ...
breakers	9/7/2008
Q: Our breaker box is not working in two bedrooms. My husband switched out the breakers switches and ... A: I hate to say it, but you have confused me a bit. If the breakers are off, how did you test them ...
installation of a chandlier	9/7/2008
Q: I want to replace a fan/chandelier combination with a simple chandelier and do not know how to go ... A: If you have 1 switch controling the ceiling box, then that is the dimmer control. If you have 2 ...
Power to wires no power to outlet	9/1/2008
Q: Blew a fuse using my microwave in the kitchen. Could not get power after to the microwave outlet so ... A: You are telling me that the wires have 120volts...but when connected to the receptacle...no power. ...
Bad breaker??	9/1/2008
Q: Recently, the breaker on my water heater (A siemens 15/25/25/15) began tripping. It started slowly, ... A: It is possible that you can put the wires from that breaker to another close breaker to test. If by ...
washer and dryer plugs and outlets	8/29/2008
Q: My recently deceased Bosch dryer had a sort of converter box that accommodated the plug from the ... A: I think I see red,black, white and green. That tells me you have 2 hots and a neutral to have ...
REset button on switch doesnt reset	8/29/2008
Q: What could be the cause and fix to Resetting a wall plug with the reset button on the plus....it ... A: This is a GFCI recepticle rated for wet locations. However, it is governing the following ...
Outdoor lighting and convenience outlet	8/26/2008
Q: I want to run a 120 volt 20 amp circuit to an area of our property we use for cookouts etc. This ... A: Way off. You can easy do with 10 gauge. 300' is a large run, but consider that 12/2 is sold in ...
exhaust fan wiring	8/25/2008
Q: i found the old fan was a mess of wiring that all came unconnected when i pulled it out so i have no ... A: Do you have two switches for separate controls? If you only have one switch for fan/light ...
electric transmission	8/25/2008
Q: we say live wire carries current to our homes and neutral takes back. then we know circuit only ... A: This is a good question. Power comes in from the Electric company. It does NOT return to the ...
installing wiring for ceiling light	7/30/2008
Q: I have a half switched receptacle with power source into it then going out in parallel to another ... A: If you have power to the switch from the receptacle, you can run the wire from the switch to the ...
Dimming lights	7/29/2008
Q: Last night my kitchen and bathroom light began to dim when turning on the microwave. The microwave ... A: The sink part of your story worries me. If you are feeling "any" sort of electricity in the ...
Wiring a 2nd breaker box separate from Main breker box	7/29/2008
Q: My main breaker box has both the ground and neutral attached to the buss bar on one side of the ... A: You will like this. You must maintain ONE ground. With a subpanel...you run 2 hot wires...one ...
circiut power loss	7/27/2008
Q: the power in my house flutulates up and down lights go bright and then dim also the cooler when it ... A: If you use a voltmeter and test the main breaker during these situations...if the main also shows ...
Outside light issue	7/26/2008
Q: I have an outside light attached to the house. A few nights about the light started flickering, so ... A: Have to tested the light fixture for voltage? It is possible, the center contact for the bulb, can ...
switched receptacle	7/26/2008
Q: I had a contractor replace switches and outlets in a room. One outlet is "switched" ... A: In the receptacle box...black is always hot...to the bottom of the receptacle. Red is tied to the ...
Wiring a gable attic fan.	7/25/2008
Q: I am installing an electric gable fan in my attic this weekend. It is from Home Depot, Master Flow ... A: If you have a junction box available for the wire for the fan, it is best to use 14/2 romex from the ...
wiring in 1960's home	7/23/2008
Q: The wires seem to be the same color, and what about the ground? A: As I recall...this that time...the romex was cloth covered...Almost not a decernable white black. ...
Wiring a Generator to the House	7/23/2008
Q: I have the appropriate switch installed and am ready to connect the generator to the house. My ... A: If the outlets are only 110/120volt output, it will only work for one leg of your panel box. It ...
3 wire dryer - where does Ground wire go?	7/23/2008
Q: I have purchased a LG dryer and my house has a 3 wire connection. The diagrams and manuals are not ... A: A dryer circuit is a dedicated circuit. As long as you have 2 hot wires...the dryer works. If you ...
install a ceiling fan in a old house	7/22/2008
Q: I bought a ceiling fan and cant figure out how to install it. When i removed the old fixture i ... A: That is old. YOu should be able to remove the cloth cover and see a difference in color. It might ...
Bathroom light switches suddenly fail	7/22/2008
Q: While giving a friend a tour of our home tonight, we went to show the guest bathroom and found that ... A: It is always a challenge to figure out how some "person" wired a house and why. It sounds like ...
Bathroom light switches suddenly fail	7/22/2008
Q: While giving a friend a tour of our home tonight, we went to show the guest bathroom and found that ... A: Take the receptacle and switches out of the box, and test for voltage in the box. If you dont have ...
Humming in the house	7/21/2008
Q: I really hope you can help! We live in a house that was built in the 70's. About a month ago I ... A: Start by turning off all electricity to the house. It will only be a minute or so...if the hum ...
Main breaker in house blowing	7/21/2008
Q: Why would my main breaker breaker keep blowing on my home? A: The generic answer is you are drawing too much current from all the breakers. You have only so much ...
Exterior wall outlet woe ...	7/20/2008
Q: Our new house (3 months old) has developed a small problem. One of the exterior outlets stopped ... A: Lets isolate and check the obvious. It is an exterior recepticle. Two possibilities...is is tied ...
hi	7/18/2008
Q: some friend of mine is very poor and told me they plan on somehow stealing electricity form the ... A: Be advised...unless they can get to the wires Before it reaches the meter...they cannot steal from ...
gfci switch combo hook up problem	7/17/2008
Q: I am having trouble connecting a gfci outlet/switch combo in my bathroom. We have a black, white ... A: I am thinking..the back should be marked "line" and "load". The power should be connected to the ...
can wiring be ruined by blowout?	7/17/2008
Q: I installed an outdoor receptacle that blew out, big tiime, and now I get no juice to the box. My ... A: Yes...wires can confuse you. If you have an arched location...you can have continuity, with nearly ...
4 Prong cord into 3 Prong outlet?	7/16/2008
Q: I have a stove with a 4 prong cord. The outlet is older as is the house (a 3 pronger) ... what do I ... A: First read the Manual. Before I give some wrong advice, is there an indication that this wiring is ...
frequent wall switch failure	7/16/2008
Q: there is a single wall switch that controls a single 150 watt overhead fixture. Everything worked ... A: It does not figure, but reverse the situation...change the bulb....with a new switch. Read what the ...
ceiling fan/light and additional light switch	7/16/2008
Q: I am trying to wire a ceiling fan/light on one switch and two separate lights on a dimmer switch for ... A: Just to be sure....you have two switches...you are not attempting to control the fan/light ...
house wiring/lightning	7/16/2008
Q: I have run 3/0 0r 4/0 cant remember which 3 strand aluminum wire from my meter to my breaker box ... A: It sounds right in your panel. In the first distribution...ground and neutral are connected evenly ...
Outlet/Recessed Lighting	7/13/2008
Q: David, I have two unrelated questions. 1) I am remodeling my basement. My plan is to update the ... A: In reverse...a 15amp circuit is good for 1800 watts. Use the 75watt for calculations. In general, ...
Heat rating for home wiring	7/13/2008
Q: My home was built in 1976, but has had some wiring done since then with remodels. I just purchased ... A: All romex wires are rated at 40 C. Only single insulated wires...THHN THWN and such are rated for ...
electrical outlet replacement	7/13/2008
Q: I recently tried to replace all of the electrical outlets in my living room...there were five total ... A: To be safe...take them out again. Look at each situation. If you only have black and whites in ...
Sub Panel Wire question	7/11/2008
Q: Im putting in a sub panbel into my garage. Looking to get 70 amp 220 service, I called some local ... A: The 70amp breaker should easy take up to #1 copper wire. It is a shame that you are using aluminum. ...
grounded outlets	7/8/2008
Q: We were told that we have to ground all of the outlets in our home. I've never really been sure what ... A: Grounding is a matter of connecting the appliance to earth ground to protect us from accidental ...
electrical surges	7/8/2008
Q: I live in a house that is about 65 years old. When I bought the house 4 years ago, I trusted the ... A: You could have a hiddend delema. If you had remodel work done on the house, in years past...that ...
electric wiring for pool	7/7/2008
Q: I have a new pool installed in my Florida home. Ever since the pool went in my bills went from ... A: I'll take another approach. If your pool pump is capable of being wired in either 120volt circuit ...
no electric on one side of house	7/6/2008
Q: I woke up this A.M. and have no electric in my living room, bathroom and bedroom.....all breakers ... A: It is more likely the Main breaker is bad. If any of your 240volt appliances are not working...it ...
breaker tripping	7/6/2008
Q: I installed 6 new lights in the basement. I ran 12/2 wire from the panel to the ... A: It is easily possible that in your parralel wires...you may have crossed one...and made a white ...
Ceiling fan noise when running	7/5/2008
Q: I have 2-1 year old celing fans that make a rattling noise when running. I'm told to check to see if ... A: Rattling is either from the fan blades being loose, a loose screw in the housing or the chains ...
lighting and electrical surges	7/4/2008
Q: Here's the story. I was out of town, so i am getting all of this 2nd hand from my wife over the ... A: You cannot protect the whole house. Lightning is abstract. It goes where it is easiest. You can ...
one switch connected to 2 separate lights in ceiling of different rooms	7/1/2008
Q: I recently attempted to replace a single light fixture with a two light fixture in one of the rooms. ... A: Normally that is a junction box. You have one set of black and white as the power source , the ...
GFCI and coffee maker	6/29/2008
Q: I have a Bunn coffee maker. It has been plugged in since I got it (4 months ago) into a GFCI. When I ... A: GFCI do go bad...Most are made in China. I have seen a GFCI trip twice..and discontinue working. ...
garage lights	6/29/2008
Q: i am trying to figure out why my 20 amp breaker trips when I turn on the garage light. I'll explain ... A: Sorrry for this delay...computer and internet problems. I would suggest that you take the entire ...
Black out in 2 rooms with breaker working	6/28/2008
Q: Over the winter we were burning a heater that kept tripping our 15amp breaker until finally the ... A: If you find a box with no power...you will need to address the last box that has power and try to ...
electricity gone in 3 rooms	6/28/2008
Q: The electricity went for no aparent reason in 3 rooms of my apartment and the socket of one other ... A: Sorry for this delay...I was having internet/computer problems. If you had an electrical ...
Black out in 2 rooms with breaker working	6/27/2008
Q: Over the winter we were burning a heater that kept tripping our 15amp breaker until finally the ... A: Sorry, sometimes I do get too short with descriptions. YOu would need to take out each ...
Rewiring My Well	6/26/2008
Q: I have to replace the wire that connects the inside switch in the basement to the well pump. Instead ... A: There is a descrepency. NM cable cannot run in conduit. UF...can. It is the insulation and ...
Ceiling fan wiring/ split circuit recepticle	6/26/2008
Q: I have a switch just inside the room that controls split circuit receptacles. I want to add a ... A: You will need to rewire the recepticle and the switch situation to eliminate the switched recepticle ...
Installing photo eye on lamp post	6/26/2008
Q: Wiring photo eye to lamp post. I have white, black red wires from the power switch, white, black ... A: If I understood correctly...you have power coming in..a black/red wire and white wire. You have a ...
dimming and quick brighting of lights	6/25/2008
Q: Help! I have had a light show going on and off for about a year now. The electric co. has checked ... A: It sounds like a low volt situation, and the only trouble shoot I would recommend...all light ...
no power in room	6/25/2008
Q: good day sir. I was removing an outlet from one of the rooms in my house. while removing the ... A: I have found GFCI protection in the craziest places. I found one in the bottom of a coat closet. ...
CEILING FANS	6/25/2008
Q: All three ceiling fans in my house have stopped working, i checked the main breaker panel and none ... A: You may want to actually trip and reset all 15 and 20amp breakers to be sure. Some will trip and ...
Add outdoor electrical outlets	6/24/2008
Q: I want to add 4 outdoor electric outlets and connect them to the master panel with their own ... A: If it is the main panel...do you have an access panel below...for phone or cable? That would give ...
no power in room	6/24/2008
Q: good day sir. I was removing an outlet from one of the rooms in my house. while removing the ... A: Is it possible that you have a second panel..a sub panel, you forgot about. It sounds like you did ...
Wiring two light fixtures where there used to be one	6/24/2008
Q: I am adding a light fixture in the Bathroom so that there are two, one over each sink. The old one ... A: ALL Junction boxes are required to be accessible. If you can put in another box...near where you ...
Lights dim briefly	6/22/2008
Q: I recently replaced a ceiling light and now notice that other lights and TVs etc. dim briefly when ... A: Check first the switches, recepticles and bulbs on that circuit. Isolate the problem as much as ...
low voltage	6/21/2008
Q: Last night, we were using an AC window unit just like we have been for the past month. However, it ... A: I hate these....it can be a bad switch in line, a bad connection in line, a bad wire nut connection ...
GFCI - Pool	6/20/2008
Q: I have a new pool and new wiring (installed by an electrician/friend). My electrical box has ... A: If it is tripping for a ground fault, you would need to find the fault. If it is tripping because ...
wiring a 3 speed ceiling fan, light with dimmer	6/19/2008
Q: I am replacing a ceiling light and switch that is a round rheostat with a 3 speed fan, light with a ... A: If you can test to see if one pair is the power source and the other pair is to/from the switch, ...
Interior light with sensor and timer.	6/16/2008
Q: can you please tell me I have spend an hour on the internet looking for what I want and cannot find ... A: There are motion sensor light switches. When you enter the room...its on. As long as it detects ...
elect problem	6/16/2008
Q: I have 4 outlets that went out today in sepperate rooms. I have checked the breakers and none have ... A: It is very possible, that you still have another GFCI protector that has tripped...you just havent ...
Add ceiling fan to existing wall switch	6/15/2008
Q: I want to install a ceiling fan where no light currently exists. There is a wall switch that powers ... A: You first need to know if you can get a wire from the switch to the attic. You can feed the switch ...
light fixture install	6/15/2008
Q: David, I am replacing the wall mounted light fixtures in my bathrooms over the sinks. The diagrams ... A: It is a code issue that a Box be provided for making wire connections. This is not the first time ...
Electrical Plug for a Well	6/14/2008
Q: My house is 3 years old, has a well, and to the best of my knowledge there is no plug for the well ... A: It is easy and should be done. At the main panel...you have a breaker for the pump. You can put a ...
GFI plug wiring?	6/14/2008
Q: I recently replaced a GFI plug in bath during remodling (color) I wired it exactly as it was but now ... A: Research all your GFCI recepticles to know what is happening. If you are replacing GFCI the power ...
Three to One	6/14/2008
Q: Mr Coil; I would like to know what wires to connect on my kitchen light; I had a three light bar ... A: I am going to guess, Is there red/black/white in the switch box? If...you have power into the ...
Ceiling Fan not turning	6/13/2008
Q: I have a ceiling fan that won't turn. It has a light which works fine. When I flip the fan switch by ... A: If the fans are all the same...take the cover off the "still good" fan and inspect all the wires. ...
Outlets	6/13/2008
Q: My situation is I have 6 outlets that suddenly all are not working in my game room. I went to the ... A: Check every recepticle you can find...look for GFCI recepticles. If for some reason...that room was ...
portable generator hook up	6/12/2008
Q: how do I do a temporary hook up from my portable generator to my heat pump? I know I can use ... A: You have only two contacts in the unit....only need two wires from the generator. You may have 4 ...
adding 2 - 240 volt 30 amps to garage.	6/12/2008
Q: I'm looking to have a air compressor (5HP running , 8-10HP? PEAK) wiring to the garage and a lincoln ... A: There is a lot going on and a lot of thinking this thru to do. You are right to seek options. As ...
Low Voltage at receptacles	6/10/2008
Q: I have a problem that has really thrown me for a loop. I have a low voltage issue with 2 circuits ... A: This resembles a bad and or arching connection. You may have a situation....involving a bad/broken ...
portable generator hook up	6/9/2008
Q: how do I do a temporary hook up from my portable generator to my heat pump? I know I can use ... A: You cannot separate out the compressor from the house current if you have a split system. If you ...
gfi switch won't reset	6/8/2008
Q: I have two gfi switches in my home one outside and one in one of the 2 bathrooms. My husband ... A: You may need to pull all the affected appliances out...including switches, to see if all have ...
circuit breaker compatibility	6/8/2008
Q: I want to replace a 20 amp circuit breaker in my GE Powermark Plus load center with a GFI. My local ... A: Breakers are so similar, and yet very different. Alot depends on the post that the breakers fits on. ...
Anamolous Voltage in 120 VAC Circuit	6/6/2008
Q: At a switch to an exterior security light, the following voltages are present: Hot-Neutral ... A: The neutral is being shared by another circuit, which will allow current flow from that other ...
lightening hit and one circuit off	6/5/2008
Q: I am a 71 year old with no experience with electricity and circuit breakers. Actually I'm scared to ... A: If a breakr wont easiy reset, it is either a bad breaker or the circuit it is protecting has a ...
Arching/ Wires burnt	6/4/2008
Q: I have a house built in 1940 and a detached garage. The garage outlets stopped working and a buddy ... A: As long as you can safely remove all the damage and get good wire with good insulation for putting ...
connecting a ceiling fan.	6/4/2008
Q: I'm attempting to wire in a ceiling fan which I uninstalled some 8 months ago when I moved, however ... A: It puzzles me that you only have red and white in the ceiling, but with that, connect the two reds ...
Dimmer for recessed lights	6/3/2008
Q: I have installed 6 recessed lights, installed 60 watt bulbs. The lights work when wired direct to ... A: If they work when wired direct, will they work with a standard switch as well? If a standard on/off ...
ground fault interrupter in kitchen	6/1/2008
Q: 1995 construction in Raleigh, NC. Does not have GFI in kitchen. Is upgrade to GFI for countertop ... A: GFCI's have been required since at least '91. It must have been removed due to the inconvenience ...
connecting 3 wire to 2 wire - what do I do with the red	6/1/2008
Q: I have a small travel trailer with some issues related to the lighting. There is a two wire (black ... A: If you do not have any 240volt use within the travel trailor, then the red is discontinued. ONLY if ...
gfi	6/1/2008
Q: i am trying to install a combo switch / gfi in my bathroom . i have 3 lines coming into the box 1 ... A: Ok it gets simple. The wires that are for switching..The wire under #3 is the white wire to/from ...
gfi	5/31/2008
Q: i am trying to install a combo switch / gfi in my bathroom . i have 3 lines coming into the box 1 ... A: Its been a while on that type appliance. Is there a brass tab connecting one side. I am thinking ...
overhead light will not turn off	5/29/2008
Q: Recently I had a connection for a ceiling light installed in my living room. when i later installed ... A: It sounds like someone hooked up the wrong black wire to the wire nuts. One of the blacks should be ...
Wiring issue	5/28/2008
Q: I don't know when this happened and if they are related. I just finished putting on a pendant light ... A: Yes a connection problem can exist from one light to another. A broken wire, a bad wire nut. If ...
Electrical fuse cartridges	5/28/2008
Q: We bought a new dryer and it worked well for about 1 year. Recently when we turned it on it would ... A: You have good reason to doubt. Electricity can confuse often. It can be the dryer went bad, the ...
wiring	5/27/2008
Q: We had Sears install a new Central air unit in our home. They used sub-par sub-contractors and the ... A: I hope a permit was taken out by the contractors. This protects you fully. You can call for an ...
make two 110 lines from a 220 line	5/27/2008
Q: In the garage we have a 220 line for an old dryer which we no longer use. Is it possible to take the ... A: You are describing a black and a white wire that are both hot. That means you do not have a neutral ...
on at dusk...off at dawn sensor	5/26/2008
Q: We had two of these but they have stopped working? They have three wires red,black and white... ... A: Let assume that the sensor has two black wires...one in, one out from/thru the sensor. The white ...
wiring new sunroom	5/25/2008
Q: I'm wiring a new sunroom that has channels for the cables down and across the walls, and across the ... A: The two sunroom companies that I have worked with, you cannot attach to the ceiling, you must use ...
dimmer/ common wire	5/25/2008
Q: I did not mark my common wire and now i'm not sure which one it is... I have a 2 black wires and a ... A: Red and black are never common, they are hot or switching. It sould like you have a 3way switch ...
red wire as common	5/24/2008
Q: I am installing a ceiling fan and have done this mutiple times before but I have a different ... A: Lets hope this is simple. In your switch box, you have blk,white power coming in.(power) You have ...
rewiring from 30 amp to 40 amp	5/24/2008
Q: We're remodeling our kitchen and replacing a wall oven with a combination oven/microwave unit. After ... A: I would consider it major. There is a possibility that it can be done easily, if you have an ...
home wiring	5/24/2008
Q: I have an electrical current running to the light switch but the ceiling fan with light will not ... A: You will need to verify that the wires are going from the switch to the light location. If you ...
fan	5/24/2008
Q: I have a junction box in my ceiling with a red, black, white and bare wire coming out of it. ... A: If the red,black wires from the ceiling are in the box with the switches, and the box has power...it ...
electrical cord prong	5/22/2008
Q: Do electrical cord prongs have to have the little holes in the end to work? Why are the little ... A: The holes were intended to aid in arch reduction as the appliances are plugged in. More electrical ...
HVAC/Heat pump slab & install	5/21/2008
Q: Our neighbor self-placed 2 8 ton Trane compressors next to our home (10'). They vibrate so much ... A: The code is very lax to this issue. Minimums....24"x24" 3" above grade...sloped slightly for run ...
house panel box	5/20/2008
Q: My question is that just a week ago i notice that there was a noise coming from the panel box in my ... A: I agree that if a white wire is turning brown...there is excessive heat on that wire. You may have ...
Low voltage lighting	5/19/2008
Q: I have a malfunctioning low voltage (12v) light fixture with a light that hangs from 2 exposed ... A: Can you verify the transformer is receiving 120volts. If there is a dimmer in the area or part of ...
centering bathroom light fixture	5/18/2008
Q: We recently replaced our bathroom vanity with a larger one, so now the light on the wall is not ... A: It is totally a matter of where the wires are in the wall. If you have enough freedom of movement ...
Low voltage at wall switch, light won't work	5/18/2008
Q: A wall switch controls a porch light. It had been working. When it quit working i checked the ... A: Somewhere in your connections...maybe in the light socket, you have a bad or mis connection on the ...
evaporative cooler wiring	5/17/2008
Q: I have a frigiking swamp cooler and had get a new switch, my hubby decided to "fix" it fist and ... A: If you have two switches..one is pump..P and the other is fan speeds. Power sometimes goes to the ...
3 way with ceiling fans	5/17/2008
Q: I have two ceiling fans with lights in my living room. we are remodeling the room and have the ... A: Where ever your power comes to this circuit, start with that box. You need a 3way dimmer for the ...
gfi troubleshooting	5/15/2008
Q: I have a gfi outlet in our bathroom it tripped we could not reset it so we replaced it with a new ... A: Pull all recepticles and switches in the related areas and test for power From the breaker. Be sure ...
3 way switch controlling a receptacle	5/14/2008
Q: There are 2 light switches that used to be able to turn on/off the bedside lamp that is to a ... A: I hope this works. You have 12/3 red/black/white from the recepticle to the switch. You have 12/3 ...
3 way switch controlling a receptacle	5/13/2008
Q: There are 2 light switches that used to be able to turn on/off the bedside lamp that is to a ... A: This is a mean configuration to describe. You have to see it as a complete circle...and yet...two ...
LIGHT	5/13/2008
Q: This morning I turned on the kitchen light of my condo and it did not turn on. Last night it worked ... A: With electricity and the many points of contact, there is no simple answer. It could be a breaker ...
Electrical cables OUTSIDE my home	5/10/2008
Q: My house has three cables going from the house wall to a power pole across the street! They hang ... A: The homeowner is responsible for the location of the overhead wires. You are not responsible for ...
wiring a Honeywell RTH6300B Thermostat	5/10/2008
Q: This is the THIRD Thermostat I've tried to buy for this home in as many weeks. I have gas heat and ... A: The easiest approach...look at the terminal where the current thermostat wires are connected at the ...
wiring a switch box back	5/10/2008
Q: I just recently put up a new ceiling fan. But like an idiot I took all the switches in my switch box ... A: I hope I can keep this simple enough for us. The white #3 is the neutral for all in this box...with ...
wiring a switch box back	5/9/2008
Q: I just recently put up a new ceiling fan. But like an idiot I took all the switches in my switch box ... A: IN the box...you should have...one pair for one light...one pair for the other light, and one pair ...
wiring a switch box back	5/9/2008
Q: I just recently put up a new ceiling fan. But like an idiot I took all the switches in my switch box ... A: Is this a test of my psychic abilities? I can tell you that a red and black pair go to the 3 way, ...
Double wall switch: one works, one aways on.	5/7/2008
Q: Here is what I know about my apt switch by door. 1. First switch controls top outlet of wall ... A: IF the switch is disconnected and the fan is running...the wiring for the fan in the housing is ...
A GFCI combo switch outlet	5/5/2008
Q: David, Im replacing my garbage disposal swich w/a GFCI combo w/a switch so I have a extra outlet at ... A: Power comes into the recepticle....thru the GFCI protection and to the switch. This can be an ...
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: I will assume that you have one switch, and red,black,white wires running from that switch to the ...
faulty outlet/wiring?	5/4/2008
Q: I have an outlet in my kitchen that has a reset button and seems to govern several other outlets. ... A: "Made in China" is the biggest problem. Those GFCI recepticles are a really bad idea...and made ...
fan bulbs	5/4/2008
Q: We have had trouble with some CFL's burning out in 3 months. I understand that incandescent bulbs ... A: I am getting alot of info that the CFL bulbs are not the best product. Alot of controversy about ...
Wiring	5/2/2008
Q: I am trying to figure out what kind of wiring i have outside. I have a J-box located on the side of ... A: You may have 2 or more circuits. If you have 230volts for the pool pump, that is separate from the ...
Under cabinet lighting problem	5/2/2008
Q: I recently had undercabinet lighting installed (Kichler Xenon units). There are 6 units placed ... A: Either they are defective, or the sensors are too delicate. Change the switch, change any source ...
Under cabinet lighting problem	5/1/2008
Q: I recently had undercabinet lighting installed (Kichler Xenon units). There are 6 units placed ... A: There may be a heat safety built in that it being breached. If too many lights are lit for the cord ...
no power to outlets	4/22/2008
Q: I had a space heater plugged in and the power went out to everything on that line. I figured it was ... A: Depending on the circuit...and what else it is feeding...you could have a junction box....with a bad ...
Bulbs going out	4/21/2008
Q: I've been in my new house for less than a year and our light bulbs are burning out left and right. ... A: Power surges are really hard to prove, and are so slight...nearly impossible to detect by the bulb. ...
weird readings	4/20/2008
Q: I will try to explain as clearly as possible, but this is complex (to me at least). I have an ... A: Try turning off just one half of the panel. If you turn off, every other breaker...and all double ...
Non-grounded outlets to grounded	4/20/2008
Q: my question is how do I change a non grounded outlet to a grounded outlet for my window unit air ... A: If you have a metal box in the wall...test to see if it is currently grounded. A voltmeter would ...
light bulb turns off by itself	4/19/2008
Q: A freind has an incandescent light fixture (recessed) in bathroom. Gets it power from a fan next to ... A: The thermal protection is on the can and not in the wire connections. If you take the can out, you ...
hvac wiring	4/16/2008
Q: i bought an A. O. Smith blower motor for my G E furnace. trying to wire it and ther are no diagrams. ... A: Because it is a two speed motor...you need to find on the motor...the motor is supposed to be ...
light bulb turns off by itself	4/15/2008
Q: A freind has an incandescent light fixture (recessed) in bathroom. Gets it power from a fan next to ... A: You have a recessed fixture that is "non IC. It is not for contact with insulation and has a ...
changing amperage in breaker box?	4/15/2008
Q: Our iron in the bedroom dims lights in the bathroom. Am told it'd b/c the bedroom circuit is 15 ... A: For code reasons, I will tell you not to change the breaker to a higher amperage because of overload ...
Electrical wiring to Shed	4/13/2008
Q: have electricity from house to the point of connection to new shed's wiring cable. Shed's wiring ... A: The best trouble shooting starts where you confirm power. At the house....reads 120volts...at the UF ...
aluminum to copper	4/11/2008
Q: the incoming feeder from the xfmr to my meter/exterior panel is aluminum (don't know size)and the ... A: Copper is the prefered conductor, and most equipment is rated for copper. You would only need one ...
Wiring existing pull chain light to new pull chain and adding switch prior to drywall	4/11/2008
Q: I am doing some wiring in my cousins basement he is finishing with drywall, he has an existing pull ... A: I am sorry, but I do get confused as I read it. Can you simplify just alittle. As for the wires on ...
7 fans powered by a 12 volt DC adaptor	4/10/2008
Q: I have 7 industrial fans needed to be wired up from a 12 volt DC adaptor plugged into a 250 Volt ... A: I would suggest you connect them is parallel one at a time. I am not sure the amperage rating for ...
adding a outlet and breaker for it...	4/8/2008
Q: I'll try to keep it simple. i would like to add a regular outlet(with 2 plug-ins, grounded) right ... A: I will assume you can mount the new single gang box via conduit to the panel. I will assume you ...
Ceiling light wiring	4/8/2008
Q: Ok,I screwed up.I had to replace a junction box for a ceiling light in the bathroom.When I took the ... A: Lets assume you have 4 black wires...one hot coming in and one hot continuing to another area. ...
celing lamp wires	4/8/2008
Q: I am trying to connect a dining room hanging light (from celing) to the ceiling where there used to ... A: If you take the switch out of the box...you should see both the red and black wires...one connected ...
celing lamp wires	4/8/2008
Q: I am trying to connect a dining room hanging light (from celing) to the ceiling where there used to ... A: You are pretty close, except that I will add, be sure which switch operate the black wire, so the ...
installing light switches	4/7/2008
Q: I am trying to replace three light switches, two dimmers and a normal, with regular two screw ... A: Disconnect all wires. Find the pair bl/wh that are the main circuit. Put 3 jumper wires from the ...
Nail through a wire	4/7/2008
Q: When he turned the lights on, he said a small 'fire' or flash came from the switch and there was a ... A: You could have a simple fix, it could get very complicated. Unfortunately, it is a "possible fire ...
CFL bulbs burning out quickly	4/7/2008
Q: I decided to become "green" and replaced over 100+ light bulbs in my house to the CFL kind. I have ... A: I firmly believe that we are getting the lowest possible quality products from China. They don't ...
Improper mid-run electrical outlet wiring	4/6/2008
Q: and I've been getting around to inspecting the outlets & switches to see what I've got. Today I ... A: That was done a long long time ago. It was known that cutting a wire would reduce current flow by ...
Weird GFI problem	4/5/2008
Q: I recently installed an new breaker box in a friends home because the old screw in fuse type he had ... A: Be sure first that it is not a circuit overload...be fore you consider a fault load. If a fault ...
bathroom lite switch connected to the outlet	4/4/2008
Q: bathroom lite switch connected to the outlet.... i would like to install a gfi outlet so it is hot ... A: If the switch has power..in its box...you can feed the GFCI first then to the switch and to the ...
Mess of wires in the garage	4/4/2008
Q: We have a junction box that is wired to an outside light on a sensor, two receptacles, and a light ... A: One of the simple ways to figure wires...start with a piece of paper...take the not wire....draw a ...
mobile home electrical issues	4/3/2008
Q: "I have a mobile home that is 10 years old. I have had no problems with the electrical system until ... A: I would start by unplugging or disconnecting everything. Turn off all breakers....then turn on the ...
Water Heater problem	4/3/2008
Q: I was checking the internal wiring of my W/H because it seemed to be lacking in hot water recovery ... A: Both elements work at 240volts. If one has gone bad...it may only be sending 120. If you jumper ...
Plug wiring controlled by wall switch	4/3/2008
Q: I have a plug that has both plugs controled b the wall switch. I am trying to have one live and one ... A: The question is do you have white red and black at the recepticle, or do you have white red and ...
Flickering lights, etc.	4/3/2008
Q: For the last few months, our lights have been flickering, and even our clocks on stove have gone on ... A: If it is not the breaker..you can have a bad connection...maybe a junction box....a wire is ...
Plug wiring controlled by wall switch	4/2/2008
Q: I have a plug that has both plugs controled b the wall switch. I am trying to have one live and one ... A: You have a recepticle with a broken/removed tab on the side...this will discontinue the other half ...
Combination Switch/Receptacle	4/2/2008
Q: Currently in a 2 gang box I have the garbage disposal switch and a regular duplex receptacle each on ... A: Normally the disposal is the power source to the switch...so those two wires should be connected to ...
ceiling fan	4/2/2008
Q: I can I determine if my fan is lighting adaptable? Can I had a Light to my existing fan. thank you ... A: Most fans have an accessory notation that a lighting kit is available. I have not seen a fan that a ...
Copper to abandoned 30+40 amp aluminum A/C circuits?	4/1/2008
Q: I need to bring power to a gas-fired tankless water heater + CO detector. Dedicated circuit not ... A: For straight scoop...# 8 copper, THHN single conductor...rated to 65amps, however 3 or more ...
warm receptacle	4/1/2008
Q: I HAD A NIGHT LITE PLUGGED INTO THIS RECEPTACLE. WHEN I UPLUGGED IT THE PRONGES WERE WARM, SO I ... A: Without current flow there is no heat value. If there is a heat source other that an ...
plug socket overload	3/31/2008
Q: i am guessing you are based in the USA so am not sure if you will be able to help as i am UK based. ... A: You are probably ok...your electrical load does not sound significant. The florescent fixtures are ...
Dimming Lights	3/31/2008
Q: When my air comes on, my lights temporarily dim. I'm guessing this has to do with the amps the ... A: As you can surmize...splicing is not a good thing, but it needs to be done in some cases. It is ...
replacing ceiling exhaust fan with heat and light for just a ceiling fixture	3/31/2008
Q: Our house was built in the 70's. We want to replace the ceiling exhaust fan (with light and heat) ... A: Some one has done some strange things in that box. You should have fewer red and more blacks. ...
Recessed lighting	3/31/2008
Q: I have just moved into a home which is about 20 years old, it has many recessed lights, most are on ... A: The problem is the fixtures. They are thermally protected...and are getting too hot. It may be as ...
Copper to abandoned 30+40 amp aluminum A/C circuits?	3/30/2008
Q: I need to bring power to a gas-fired tankless water heater + CO detector. Dedicated circuit not ... A: Keep it simple and yesss keep it safe. If you dont incorporate a subpanel, you should change the ...
Copper to abandoned 30+40 amp aluminum A/C circuits?	3/30/2008
Q: I need to bring power to a gas-fired tankless water heater + CO detector. Dedicated circuit not ... A: All of your options are available...providing the junction box is accessible. It is fine to use ...
still won't work	3/29/2008
Q: i installed an outside receptacle it worked fine until a problem with the washer in the house ... A: It sounds like a static connection. You can get a voltage reading, but no amperage available. ...
Dimming Lights	3/28/2008
Q: When my air comes on, my lights temporarily dim. I'm guessing this has to do with the amps the ... A: As I guess you are finding from neighbors...the dimming is semi expected. As for the splicing of ...
Wiring Replacement Fixture	3/26/2008
Q: We are replacing a fluorescent fixture in our kitchen with an incandescent one. I took down the old ... A: If you have a continuity testor, you can isolate the switch pair, the hot lead, the wires for the ...
Wall outlets not working	3/25/2008
Q: All of my wall outlets in both bedrooms do not work. I assume they are on the same circuit breaker. ... A: Check all your circuit breakers...check all the switches...look for GFCI recepticles...they can be ...
Power off in 2 rooms but breaker not tripped	3/23/2008
Q: The power in one section of the house is out but the breakers are not tripped. The ceiling lights & ... A: To the basics. Turn off all breakers and reset. Test each breaker with a voltmeter. Dont assume. ...
removing switched outlets	3/22/2008
Q: I would like to remove the switched outlets in my living room. The circuit starts at an outlet, ... A: Keep it simple, the power comes into a box. The power goes to the recepticle for supposedly half of ...
3 way switches for multiple lights	3/22/2008
Q: Need to know how to wire 2 three way switches to series of three lights, with switches on each end ... A: Consider all 3 lights as one light. Power comes into one switch. The lights should be fed from ...
wiring concession stand	3/20/2008
Q: Short background: restoration of 60's Airstream as mobile espresso shop. I will rewire the whole ... A: #1...electricians are very leary of mobile homes..travel trailers and such. Electrical codes are ...
Halogen Potlight Troubleshooting	3/16/2008
Q: I have 4 x 4" low voltage (50W) halogen potlights in my breakfast area. These were installed by my ... A: Two thoughts...your light fixture installation is still under warranty. If you know the electrical ...
220V to 110V "Adapter"	3/16/2008
Q: Several years ago, a friend showed me how to open a 220V male plug, "drop" one leg, wire a 110V ... A: I am not real sure what your goal is, but If you want a 220 cord, you leave both legs wired. If you ...
Electrical Troubleshooting	3/14/2008
Q: I live in a townhouse, probably built in the late 70s early 80s. I have had issues for the past 10 ... A: First is to find a cheap voltmeter...almost any hardware store has them. $10 to 12 I hope. Test ...
three way switch	3/12/2008
Q: please sent me a diagram how to wire a three way switch. A: If you buy a 3way switch in a box, most boxes have wiring diagrams on the inside of the box. It is ...
two Way Switch wireing	3/10/2008
Q: Please explain the two way switch wireing in home wireing Like In bad room so please explain with ... A: Just for information...you have a single pole switch and a 3way switch. 2 three way switches work ...
1/2 an outlet not working???	3/9/2008
Q: Home was built around 1982. The top half of my living room outlet (outlet A) is not working - - had ... A: It is time to pull out all the affected appliances and research the circuits. Apparently someone ...
installing single ballast(kitchen fixture)	3/8/2008
Q: I connected a single ballast to my fixture. I have 4 flourescent bulbs. T8. Got 2 lights to outside ... A: Ballasts are for single or twin bulb fixtures. A single ballast will not light 4 bulbs. T8 is a ...
generator wiring	3/8/2008
Q: first off, i am not completely and idiot, this question may spark that thought i am looking for ... A: I hope to tell you that this is a good idea. Two thoughts. You are going to have 240volts to the ...
dead electrical sockets in living room	3/7/2008
Q: When we bought the house the electrical sockets were so loose we had to replace all the plugs so ... A: Small typo there...sorry. Nail can pierce a wire. In most cases you will need to pull out all ...
aluminum sevice entrance	3/5/2008
Q: When I installed the new cable I used a anti oxidant grease on the connections called GB ox-guard. ... A: You should not grease the buss bar. When the panel gets hot...whether by ambient air or thermal ...
Post light does not work	3/5/2008
Q: The post light outside my house quit working. First, I thought it was the electric eye. Replaced ... A: Start with the basics. You have 3 switches in one box. Is the power to all 3. Is power going thru ...
connecting recessed lights to an existing curcuit	3/4/2008
Q: I want to install some recessed lights in my family room. I have a ceiling fan w/light controlled ... A: When you take the fan housing off at the wire connections...the blue wire is supposed to control the ...
Outlet troubleshooting	3/4/2008
Q: My mother-in-law calls me and her problem is this. She was running the microwave and it shut off. ... A: My first thought is the microwave. But research is cheaper sometimes. Start with the breaker. ...
Electrical outlet in bedroom	3/3/2008
Q: I had a question about my outlet in the bedroom that stopped working when I was watching tv. My ... A: It could be the Breaker. They do go bad. When a breaker trips more than 4 times....it will no ...
Running Electrical CAble to a Boat Lift	3/3/2008
Q: David, I am running a cable down to a Boat Lift 270 ft from the house box. The lift draws 12 Amps ... A: With #12 copper rated to 26amps...you are needing 12???? You are already upsizing by nearly double. ...
floor heating system	3/2/2008
Q: Greetings, buying the suntouch in floor heating to lay below tile. together the 2 pads pull 3.5 ... A: Just to help your understanding and help me guide you best I can....we are currently using the 2005 ...
floor heating system	3/1/2008
Q: Greetings, buying the suntouch in floor heating to lay below tile. together the 2 pads pull 3.5 ... A: There are alot of factors in play. Your amperage is affected by a continuous load rule. 125%. ...
replacing 3-way switched ceiling fan with projector	2/29/2008
Q: and thank you for taking time to address this question! I am converting a 2nd living area in my home ... A: It sounds like a really simple situation. You already have what you need in the ceiling, just a ...
No Power	2/29/2008
Q: I have a relativey new home built in 2001. There are two adjacent bedrooms that have lost all ... A: First, start with the breakers. Off and on each one. Test the voltage at the breaker. I hope you ...
Home Wiring	2/28/2008
Q: I have a old house with only two wire's going to the electrical receptacle's ( no ground wire ) The ... A: When you dont have a ground wire in the sheathing of the two conductors, you normally have metal ...
Jacuzzi bathtub in remodeled house	2/28/2008
Q: I had a brand new Jacuzzi tub installed in my bathroom in Sept. 2007. It was wired with it's own ... A: As long as the breaker did not trip....you are good for ground fault protection and apparently you ...
Torque Specs, etc.	2/26/2008
Q: Sorry to ask such a dumb question, but I wanted to assure that I am doing something correctly. On a ... A: I have never seen an inspection of the tightness. Considering the amount of torque available on an ...
wiring in an outdoor shed	2/25/2008
Q: I put 12/2 wire in the shed. now i have power source going to the switch box and 2 lines, 1 going ... A: Once you have a power source identified, you can add from that source to another or several other ...
Wiring Problem	2/25/2008
Q: I am trying to reconnect two switches that control two separate lights. I think the power is coming ... A: You will need to isolate each wire to determine source and directions. You need to find the power ...
Recepticle for 1965 welder 230V	2/24/2008
Q: Ive purchased an old Lincoln 250 AC/DC arc welder circa 1965. 230 V . About 10 years ago i installed ... A: Your new welder only requires 2 hot wires. If you have red/black/white/ green-bare copper....I ...
Trouble with bathroom switch	2/24/2008
Q: I had to replace the old metal box holding my double rocker switch for the fan and light in the ... A: Lets assume you have 3 pairs of wires in that box. black/white are the power source. Black white ...
gfci	2/24/2008
Q: I just purchased a new home in dec. builders tell me that i should not plug my electric lawn mower ... A: It is possible that the lawn mower is not "fault" wired to work in GFCI recepticles. If you plug it ...
Adding a new 2nd bathroom light receptical to the existing light switch.	2/21/2008
Q: I am remodeling our bathroom. There is one wall light receptacle now I want to add a second lite. I ... A: As long as black wires from the light fixtures are connected to the top of the switchs, then black ...
overhead light	2/21/2008
Q: our overhead light in the living room will not turn off. we replaced the switch, it still won't ... A: Normally a switch replacement is as easy as it gets. In some cases, too many wires taken off, ...
Using a single phase to power a 3 phase motor	2/21/2008
Q: I have this old 3 phase motor(working condition) and would like to power it up. The problem is that ... A: If it is a reversable motor, you may be able to connect 2 of the phases at half speed, with a 240 ...
Possible to make 30 amps with a 15 amp cable and two fuses?	2/21/2008
Q: Somebody told me something and I'm kind of skeptical. I have some problems with 15 amps fuses always ... A: It can get funny the stories I hear on the internet. You can rest assured, you are correct. If you ...
Dryer Wiring	2/12/2008
Q: I have an old dryer with a 3 prong plug, Need to change with a 4 prong. The wiring on the new plug ... A: How many terminals are on the new dryer. Should be 3. I would keep the wire from the old dryer and ...
New light fixture no light	2/12/2008
Q: I installed a new light fixture, 2 wires one white one black, turned off the circuit breaker, ... A: Verify the fixture. Put in a bulb that you KNOW is good. Carefully put the loose black and white ...
no power in bath outlet	2/12/2008
Q: After installing a GFI outlet by lavatory I now have no power in outlet previous outlet was not GFI ... A: Sorry for the delay..computer was down. You may need to take the recepticle back out...including ...
garage outlets	2/11/2008
Q: I am installing outlets in my garage. Can the outlets be four feet off the floor, or do they have to ... A: This took some thinking, but, if you leave the tabs on the neutral side of the recepticles in place, ...
Ceiling Fan	2/8/2008
Q: I have recently moved into a older home. A ceiling fan, Hunter # 25736, is installed in the master. ... A: I could not be sure, but If you put the white wire in a receptcle, the brown is probably the light ...
FURNACE/ELECTRIC	2/8/2008
Q: MY FUNACE BLWS A FUSE 2 TO3 TIMES SOMETIMES PLUS IT COMES ON EVERY 10 TO 15 MINUTES,AND IS IT ... A: Electric heat is the most expensive of all. If you have any options....find one. If you are ...
outlet has no power after working on it..	2/8/2008
Q: Im gonna try and make this brief. I was replacing/rewiring an outlet and now all 3 (2 outlets/1 ... A: This can get frustrating....yes? You may need to open some recepticles that do work to find where ...
totalblackout	2/6/2008
Q: I have hung MANY light fixtures before... no big deal, but this one has me stumped. There are three ... A: In A/C current, it does not matter between two wires which you connect to hot or neutral. It is ...
some outlets out in bedroom	2/6/2008
Q: two of my outlets are out in my bedroom. One should turn on when I click the wall switch and the ... A: The first situation, take the two recepticles and the switch out of their boxes and inspect the ...
Mounting Ceiling Fan	2/5/2008
Q: I have a 1948 house. The electrical box in the ceiling is held by a metal strap between two joist. ... A: In my experience, of that age of equipment...that bar is not sufficient for the use of the fan. It ...
3 wire hook up, why do I need 4?	2/5/2008
Q: I spoke with my county inspector about my service upgrade from 10 amp to 200 amp... I have most of ... A: From the main panel to a subpanel you are required to supply an additional ground wire. 2 hots...1 ...
Follow-up	1/31/2008
Q: I have a follow up question to myIts very cold in our house, so we had put two heaters in our ... A: Electrical problems are NOT easy to find, unless it is covering by a GFCI recepticle. The answer ...
faulty circuit?	1/31/2008
Q: A couple of days ago a handyman came in and installed a bathroom fan/light combo where the light ... A: Get to the basics. Take the cover off and test the voltage at the breaker. Breakers go bad and a ...
Rheem electric- central heat and air system	1/30/2008
Q: Hrllo David, I just bought this home built 1984. Has original system. this Jan. bill is double vs. ... A: IF the system is that old, it definitly needs service. A thermometer at the registers should read ...
home 220 "single phase"	1/30/2008
Q: a question for clarifying my understanding. When a home in the U.S. is wired for 220 volt available ... A: You are correct that you have two lines of 120 volts coming in from a transformer. It is single ...
electric repair	1/29/2008
Q: I have a bathroom light that buzzes when turned on. The light switch in the garage buzzes, too. I ... A: It is not likely to be a central cause, but something may be affecting the power supply to the ...
Light Switch	1/29/2008
Q: The lights in my bedroom closet, and the outlet on my wall are on the same circuit. The problem is ... A: You have to know where the power comes into the situation. Is the receptcle being powered, or the ...
switch operated wall outlet	1/28/2008
Q: I looked in the past answers for a solution but didn't find one specific to my problem. In my ... A: The important question is, do you have power in the recepticle box aside from the switch. Normally ...
Electricity Contest	1/28/2008
Q: I am an agriculture teacher and I am training a group of students to compete in an electricity ... A: Part of your training also needs to include the use of the 2005 National Electrical Codes. You are ...
mechanical question about GFCI outlet screw	1/28/2008
Q: This is a real newbie question. I am installing my first GFCI outlet -- actually my first outlet of ... A: The problem is that your recepticle was prefered for a straight wire in the back and not a side ...
replacing 3-way switches in old house with crazy wiring	1/27/2008
Q: This has already stumped my father, an electrician for over 35 years. To his credit, he worked new ... A: I would suggest a continuity test of each wire. Making sure that each is a solid circuit within the ...
power out upstairs	1/26/2008
Q: I planned to reinstall our bedroom light fixture today (we just and the ceilings down, so it had to ... A: Sorry for the delay..computer was down. You may need to start with a voltmeter and be sure all ...
Backwards wiring	1/26/2008
Q: I recently installed a new ceiling fan in place of an old one. It was a one for one exchange. Upon ... A: Take the fan and related switch out of the picture. Work the kitchen lights and switches first. ...
Service Upgrade	1/25/2008
Q: I am in the process of doing a service upgrade to our 19th century farm house from a 100A service to ... A: You now have 3 locations...pole, house, barn,,,and you want house, pole, barn. I assume that is ...
Inverter A/C installation	1/25/2008
Q: I purchased a Ductless Heating and cooling inverter house system . Its power supply is a single ... A: If this is a European designed equipment, you will not be able to use it in USA. They have single ...
Downgrading 2- and 3-way switching	1/24/2008
Q: Please don't cringe at the question - it may be unusual and possibly unable to be done, but ... A: It is possible, but it may not be as simple as taking one thing out and replacing with another. ...
excess energy consumption	1/24/2008
Q: Our energy bills have more than doubled and they are rising. No one knows why. We have installed ... A: What did the electrician check. An amprobe on each circuit will show if any one circuit is pulling ...
Troubleshooting ceiling light fixture	1/23/2008
Q: I was recently trying to fix a few things up at my girlfriends house, but couldn't get her living ... A: You may need a voltmeter...a cheap one...to trouble shoot. Start with the basic. The breakr. test ...
Incorrect Switch Wiring Works	1/23/2008
Q: I recently pulled of a dimmer switch (I assuming it is not a switch loop). Anyways the wiring was ... A: If you consider that you need a complete circle of wire to create a switch to a light..you only have ...
3 device switch / combination switch	1/22/2008
Q: So... I recently changed out my 2 bathroom single pole switches with a combination switch for 3 ... A: You have a branch circuit in that box. When it was wired, they used the red as a branch for both ...
hairdryer won't work in outlet	1/20/2008
Q: I have replaced the outlet in my bathroom twice now. After a period of time, my wife's hairdryer ... A: Hairdryers have so many safeguards, it may have a builtin overload that is tripping within, and when ...
Fahrenheat Model FTA2A Electric Baseboards	1/20/2008
Q: I am installing six of these baseboards into a house I just bought. The baseboards are all brand ... A: Are the thermostats rated for 120/240 or are they 12volt? The 120/240 thermostats are INline and ...
wiring a bathroom and 3 other spaces....	1/19/2008
Q: i would like to know if I'm doing this right! I installed a new 15amp breaker... ran wiring from ... A: You are running a lighting circuit..and doing well. You can drop off one leg to a single ...
Additional Receptacal (outlet)	1/19/2008
Q: I need to install an additional receptacle behind plasma TV. There is an existing outlet on the ... A: I wont say its easy, but it is done all the time. If you can put your new location directly above ...
Shower ceiling light	1/19/2008
Q: There is an open between the service panel and shower ceiling light receptacle(HOT). There is ... A: I am concerned for the ground wires vs the neutral wires. I want to be sure we are talking about ...
wiring	1/18/2008
Q: in wiring ,how many outlets(bulbs,fans etc) load may we attach or use with one switch board? A: There are several answers to this question. 2400 watts of bulb usage can be on a 20amp breaker, ...
Hard wired Fire Alarm	1/17/2008
Q: We have 4 hard wired fire alarms and 1 carbon monoide alarm in our prefab home. One of our alarms ... A: Take it down...put it someplace outside. Give it fresh air for an hour. Put it back. If it still ...
Main Breaker Panel Wiring	1/17/2008
Q: I've been "E-Studying" the Neutral / Ground connection philosophy - in that the two are to be ... A: The ground rod is the total return or termination for the house and Power company. Both wires are ...
Power usage in different outlets	1/16/2008
Q: This is a silly question from someone who knows nothing (obviously) about this sort of stuff. ... A: The appliance uses the same energy where ever you plug it in, but the caviot...the recepticle on ...
repair or remove celing fan	1/16/2008
Q: I accidently yanked out the cord that turns the light on and off to the ceiling fan. (the light was ... A: Some times you get real lucky with the light kit for fans. If you can find a fan store (lowes, Home ...
Outdoor lighting	1/15/2008
Q: I am running outdoor lighting at my place of business. I have four lights that I'm trying to string ... A: This is unusual and another learing experience. If the sockets test out...even use an extension ...
Can't run romex through metal pipes?	1/14/2008
Q: I got a note from the inspector saying that 'can't run romex through metal pipes". I just finished ... A: The outer coat of romex cannot be put in conduit for both space and heat reasons. It takes up too ...
issues in the wash-room	1/14/2008
Q: my washing machine is plugged into a different outlet then my dryer. however, when i turn the dryer ... A: It is not a fire issue, unless it is a 240volt dryer. It May be showing signs of future failure. ...
light bulb stuck	1/14/2008
Q: The ceramic part that the light bulb screws into is loose and twist as I try to remove the bulb, and ... A: This has a potential danger zone. It can be fixed in some cases...and not, in other cases. If you ...
Breakers/Short	1/13/2008
Q: I plugged a power hand saw into a receptacle and when I did, I heard a [very] small pop. I ... A: If a bad connection in a recepticle box causes the problem, it is not a short. If the wire ...
Circuit Breaker Malfunction	1/12/2008
Q: Two circuit breakers in an open subpanel were accidentally switched to the off position when an ... A: Circuit breakers go bad. Normally if a breaker is tripped repeatedly by a short or other electrical ...
electrical trouble	1/11/2008
Q: I was trying to install a ceiling fan when I touched to wires that apparently didn't go together. ... A: It is rare, but it happens, a connection in a junction box will burn apart with an arch from an ...
finishing basement/electric	1/11/2008
Q: "We are having a new home built and the electric box was supposed to be put in the basemnt but they ... A: Bedrooms are considered a 15amp load use. All other areas are considered common use and 20amp ...
Adding a ceiling fixture	1/10/2008
Q: I need to add a ceiling fixture to an existing bedroom circiut. In this circuit there is a switch ... A: I am going to assume that you only have two wires going from the switch to the split recepticle. ...
3 way switch	1/7/2008
Q: I am replacing a 3 way switch with a motion light detector in my laundry room. This is so when we ... A: A 3way switch scenario is not condusive to adding a single switch, as a motion sensor is. You will ...
Ceiling Light Wires	1/6/2008
Q: I'm replacing a fan with a light. There are three wires in the ceiling box - white, red, and black. ... A: It is a bit confusing. If you have red/black/white in the ceiling, and red/black/white at the ...
changing old alluminium wire to copper for insurance and safty purposes	1/6/2008
Q: my house is about 35 years old and back than all wiring around the house was alluminum wirings which ... A: There is nothing unsafe about aluminum wire. It is still being used in higher amperage situations. ...
HELP!!!!	1/5/2008
Q: OMG! I have just put a nail through the wire that operates the kitchen lights. I have an old style ... A: Lets say its 50/50. If you shorted the circuit with the nail, then you can safely pull the nail ...
need your help	1/5/2008
Q: i have a ceiling light & a fan in my office,one day they both stopped working.both switches are ... A: I recommend the obvious. Take the switches out and remove the fan. Inspect the connections to the ...
thermostat	1/5/2008
Q: I have a 2 zone forced hot water system, i had 2 honeywell round style thermostats i replaced them ... A: I like the old styles better...less to learn and deal with. Some of the new t-stats are a nightmare ...
Pool problem	1/4/2008
Q: I was wondering if a bad timer could cause the curcuit breakers to keep shutting off. Our pool will ... A: Pool equipment is a strange animal. Some of the appliances that are interconnected can cause ...
losing electricity in certain areas of house	1/4/2008
Q: After turning on vacuum, I lost electricity on a number of outlets and lights in section of home. ... A: OK! This could be fun to research. Does the vacuum do this in all the affected recepticles? Does ...
Problems with Security / Sentry lighting	1/2/2008
Q: I am having continuous problems with my security lighting. They are two Utilitech brand halogen ... A: I was tired when I first read your question. Halogen vs incandescent bulbs. Sorry,. I would now ...
Where does the red wire go ?	12/31/2007
Q: I've been doing some bathroom renovations and had to remove the electrical fixtures. I hooked them ... A: In your case, there is a white wire to continue the circuit back to the light fixture, one black ...
grounding in old house	12/30/2007
Q: I just bought an old house.None of my outlets are grounded. What are my options to keeping these ... A: The older homes had the ground wire connected to the back of metal boxes..but still grounded. It ...
subpanel	12/29/2007
Q: how can i add a sub panel to my 200 amp main panel,if there is not more space to add 50 amp to feed ... A: There are two possibilities...the wires that go the the breakers that you will be replacing with the ...
three way needed?	12/29/2007
Q: i would like to have switched power to the bottom receptacles in a bedroom w no overhead lights. do ... A: A single pole switch is required for this application. It operates those recepticles. Your ...
high residential Kw - is low voltage the cause?	12/29/2007
Q: I am looking at buying a house. The power co. meter is about 400' from the last transformer. The ... A: The line from the meter to the house is a concern. That is enough distance for an upgrade on the ...
Problems with Security / Sentry lighting	12/28/2007
Q: I am having continuous problems with my security lighting. They are two Utilitech brand halogen ... A: Is there a warning label on the box...rating it to a limited wattage? It is possible that the ...
Wiring a new room to to pre-existing system	12/28/2007
Q: I am going to be re-wiring and add-on. Is it possible to add new outlets and lighting to the ... A: The electrical code calls for 8 recepticles per circuit. The number one reason, so you can add to ...
Blown Fuse	12/27/2007
Q: This year I am using space heaters in the basement. I blew a fuse and replaced it. But that hasn't ... A: The heaters may not have been the cause for the fuse. If you have a bad connection in your ...
Outdoor motion lights	12/26/2007
Q: My motion lights use to work just fine. Now they do not come on when there is movement. I think ... A: If you take the fixture apart, you will need to cut wires to remove the sensor from the circuit to ...
New range has 4 prong plug..........	12/25/2007
Q: Probably a typical situation, the old range receptacle is the V shaped three prong and the new range ... A: I would make a similar assumption. Replace the recepticle for the 4 prong plug. If you have ...
Hot Water Heater Tripping Breaker	12/24/2007
Q: I have a kitchen hot water heater for a nursing home and I'd say it is 100 gallons. I'm having a ... A: The cheapest way out is to replace both heating elements, and the breaker. About $60 is parts. ...
Hot Water Heater Tripping Breaker	12/24/2007
Q: I have a kitchen hot water heater for a nursing home and I'd say it is 100 gallons. I'm having a ... A: It is a double pole breaker, but a sinble trip lever for convenience. Breakers go bad, and elements ...
random power outage throughout house	12/23/2007
Q: Have had approximately 6 outagesin past few days that take parts of my circuits offline. It is ... A: Start at the breaker panel. Turn everything off. Get a voltmeter and test each breaker as you turn ...
electrical outlets	12/22/2007
Q: a contractor plugged in a wet extension cord into an outlet in the kitchen and I now have 5 dead ... A: Start with the breaker. I have seen many that did not trip, but were dead. Trip and reset. If you ...
Bypass switch	12/21/2007
Q: KISS is the best concept. I bought an inline timer to control my outside lights, both, the spotlight ... A: Either temporary remove the switch and wire nut the wires, or have a double switch box installed and ...
islolated hot wires on same circuit breaker?	12/21/2007
Q: Q: If you have a wall socket and a single pole light switch on the same circuit breaker how is it ... A: They are not isolated, in the fact that all breakers are connected in the panel. They are ...
Furnace blower motor replacement and capacitor	12/20/2007
Q: I have a bryant furnace on which the blower motor went. I went and got a A.O 1/3 hp 115 amp blower ... A: He is a salesman. I do not include the capacitor, and most AC servicemen dont. Connect it the same ...
Electrical Wiring in Home	12/19/2007
Q: I just had a Convection/Microwave Oven with exhaust installed over my electric cooktop. The ... A: A microwave requires its own dedicated circuit. It cannot be on a lighting circuit. It will draw ...