Electrical Wiring in the Home - Home Improvement/Repair - Home/Garden

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About Robert Wilber
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
Licensed Philadelphia electrician serving Delaware, Chester, Montgomery and Philadelphia County in Pennsylvania. I install and repair residential, commercial and industrial wiring and lighting. Troubleshooting and repair of problems that stump other people is my favorite. I am willing to help people figure out why things don`t work. I understand motor controls, transformers and machine wiring. I am not willing to teach novices to do installations of advanced work or replace basic personal research.

Experience
Experience in the area I have 35 years experience in residential, commercial and industrial electrical construction and repair, 480 volts and below. Organizations Electrical Association of Philadelphia, Independent Electrical Contractors Association, International Association of Electrical Inspectors

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Questions Answered By Expert Robert Wilber
In Category Electrical Wiring in the Home

Subject	Date Asked

extension box	11/21/2009
Q: I would like to know if it exist in the market a extension box to permit extention (connecting 3 ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
wiring combination switch outlet	11/20/2009
Q: I have an older wiring installation, hot and neutral only, no ground. Old combination single pole ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
wiring circuit	11/19/2009
Q: I have power to outlet "B". There are outlets "C" and "D" to the right, and outlet "A" to the left. ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516-16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
potential shop power need	11/18/2009
Q: I am anticipating building a relatively small shop to house: three 3-phase Oliver machines [mdl ... A: You need to contact the utility "new service department" or whatever they call it where you are. Try ...
Electrical light problem	11/17/2009
Q: I had a room wired and when I installed the light, it will not turn off. I have continuity to the ... A: something is missing here How is it you have 2 white and three black wires? [or 2 black, 2 white and ...
amps volts	11/9/2009
Q: Hi I have changed most of my appliances plus from australia to uk they only worked for a coupke of ... A: Sorry. I don't know ANYTHING about UK and Australia electricity, not even voltage levels. What I ...
3 way single pole and 3 way combo	11/3/2009
Q: I replaced my light switches, a single pole 3 way and a single pole 3 way combo near the basement ... A: Though your description is unclear - [really] - I have derived the impression that there are THREE ...
static phase converter	11/1/2009
Q: I have a lathe with a 3 phase 7 1/2hp motor . I have run #10 wire 220v single phase to the ... A: Contact the manufacturer. By the way, did you know that most sources state something similar to the ...
gfci tripping	10/26/2009
Q: I have a gfci that began tripping with no obvious explanation; no new changes on the the circuit, no ... A: Hang any new pictures? Install any new molding? Basic troubleshooting is required. Something finally ...
Electrical	10/24/2009
Q: Robert, another person asked Don, about his planned 400' electric run out to his dock, Don gave him ... A: According to the NEC 250.4 and 250.32, as I understand it in this circumstance, it is required to ...
high voltage	10/22/2009
Q: i just bought a house an the voltage at sockets shows 144 to 148 on meter,what do you thinks the ... A: That's high. Call the utility before you burn something up, like your TV, due to overvoltage, which ...
testing	10/21/2009
Q: Just wondered if you could try and explain to me the difference between a continuity test and an R1 ... A: sorry-don't know what you mean by R1-R2 test also, what is a strapper? intermediate switch? [we have ...
Erratic operation	10/19/2009
Q: My dusk to dawn light fixture has worked good for years. The bulb gave out. I replaced it. Now It ... A: Often, when the bulb is allowed to failed completely and remain so for any period of time, the ...
emt conduit	10/16/2009
Q: I have a broken, pot metal emt coupler in the middle of my main conduit from the meter to the panel. ... A: I am not aware of an electrical manufacturer that makes such a gizmo, though they would occasionally ...
Neutral wire	10/14/2009
Q: I had previously asked Robert a question about a 2/0 aluminum wire being too large for my neutral ... A: Why are you suddenly installing a larger cable than existed in an obsolete panel, pray tell? ...
ENT / Orange Smurf	10/3/2009
Q: I'm running the orange version of smurf tube for some low-voltage wiring going from basement to ... A: Since the purpose is to reduce or prevent noise from induced current, it is best to keep as far as ...
Electric stove - hotplate only gets warm	10/2/2009
Q: One of the hotplates on my electric cooktop refuses to get hot! It will only become somewhat warm ... A: If it works at all, the wiring and socket should probably be ok. I would think it is probably the ...
240 in a 120 outlet	10/1/2009
Q: Greetings from a fellow "Expert" (computers, not electrical stuff). I apologize for the length of ... A: Bummer... My bet is that the cable with the red and black has 240v between the red and black. Either ...
50 Amp Spa	9/23/2009
Q: I plan to install a 50A 240V GFCI spa kit about 60 feet from the main panel. I think I need to use ... A: White? You need a neutral too? I take it you were planning on using copper THHN at 90 degrees? Most ...
240V electrical heater	9/20/2009
Q: this heater has only black and red wire (of course, it also has a ground wire). I used #10 (black ... A: Why #10? Why 3-wire? There is no neutral in straight 240v applications. Cap the white. You don't ...
Standby generator install	9/19/2009
Q: Greetings, and thanks in advance for volunteering your skills to help someone out. I am looking to ... A: It doesn't matter where you put the transfer switch, you have to bring house power to it anyway. ...
stalling baseboard heater and double pole thermstat	9/18/2009
Q: 1 is 1500 watts 2nd 750 watts 240 volts baseboard heater and thermostat in my attic room can you ... A: 12 gauge, 2-pole 20 amp breaker WIRING DIAGRAM? You probably shouldn't be doing this yourself... * ...
Electrical outlets not working	9/16/2009
Q: I came home and tried to turn on the tv.. wouldn't turn on. then discovered that three outlets as ... A: You need a loop - transformer-hot-load-neutral-transformer It is a bad connection someplace. Could ...
wiring affecting tv?	9/12/2009
Q: We have an unusual situation. Several of our TV stations tend to get fuzzy while we are watching. ... A: Ghostbusters...... Sounds screwy to me. It may be that turning on the light in the next room seems ...
electrical outlet problem	9/10/2009
Q: I have two upstairs bathroom outlets that don't work when I plug in a hair dryer. The circuit ... A: yeah. weird Turn ther breaker off and on and see if that helps Also, trip and reset the GFI device. ...
Power goes out on part of my house, but no breakers are kicked out...	9/9/2009
Q: i am remodeling my kitchen. i installed a new dual oven range, and a new microwave vent above it. I ... A: It could be many things. Breakers that are dead wouldn't happen to be every other breaker pair, like ...
telephone wiring	9/8/2009
Q: Upon close examination of the exterior of our house, it appears the previous owners had installed 3 ... A: Maybe they had rented out rooms or had an office in the house, so you got more than one network ...
help with wiring dimmer switch	9/7/2009
Q: please explain the correct wiring for the ceiling light that connects to the dimmer switch in the ... A: Your photo didn't come through It can't be that hard anyway. It is just a switch and a light I will ...
detached garage sub panel	9/6/2009
Q: I was reading one of your responses on allexperts.com and I was curious about a situation I'm having ... A: According to the NEC [250.32] it is required that multiple buildings under common management [your ...
Question	9/3/2009
Q: Someone suggested I get a digital voltmeter to see what voltage is really coming into my house. What ... A: Can't speak for Ideal meters. The only tester I ever had of Ideal's was the yellow solenoid-type ...
house wiring	9/2/2009
Q: I have a (light) switch controlled receptacle, actually 1/2 half of the receptacle is controlled by ... A: Of course it is possible We have walked on the moon It will not necessarily be easy though Best ...
Question	8/31/2009
Q: I have an old Wadsworth service panel and it has "with ground fault interruptor" written on it. It ... A: Well, I thought I had seen about everything. Never ran across one of those. GFIs are great, even if ...
recessed lighting	8/23/2009
Q: i have a north/west facing living room thats pretty dark most of the time. we use it as a library ... A: You are opening up a real can of worms You need to decide whether you are creating real ...
dryer troubleshooting	8/22/2009
Q: Sir, I am a mechanic in the military so I know a bit about troubleshooting. However, I recently ... A: As in all things in life, timing is evberything. Disconnect the heater element and see if the ...
220volts from 110v, outlets	8/21/2009
Q: I need to test a 220volt oven for about 10 minutes or less . I don't have a 220 volt outlet and I ... A: naaaahh..... ...won't work Don't do it. The product of your idea creates a hazard. What do you hope ...
high electric bills	8/20/2009
Q: What can cause high ($500+) electric bills? I have checked everything, disposed of old refridges ... A: Is the underground wiring which you suspect before or after the meter? You say you clamped all the ...
High Power useage	8/19/2009
Q: Help can wiring cause a high power usage ? I have change out all appliances , water heater , air ... A: Weird-someone else just asked the same question same answerWhat can cause high ($500+) electric ...
Intermitent Power Failures	8/16/2009
Q: Robert: My house lights flicker periodically, and I lose power in most of the house for 15 minutes ... A: You have a power problem It is either your service equipment or the utility company's equipment If ...
old house wiring to new outside light	8/14/2009
Q: we have an older house and the wiring behind the light switch has only one hot wire and the new ... A: WHADAYA MEAN ... there is only one hot wire...?!? Are you telling me there is only one single ...
how do you connect a double receptecle to a single light switch	8/12/2009
Q: I have a light switch that turns on the light in my garage. I want to connect a double receptacle to ... A: Sorry There doesn't seemm to be enough info here Do you mean to tell me that there is only one cable ...
Internal electrical brown out	8/11/2009
Q: During a power outage I turned off the main and used a generator, plugged into an external house ... A: I suggest you look at the fact that it is evident that you don't know what you are doing. It is ...
ceiling fan connections	8/7/2009
Q: I want to install a ceiling fan in the garage. The wire colors from the switch are red, white & ... A: For the fan, blue is usually the light kit wire, black the fan hot, white the neutral. As far as ...
low voltage problem	8/6/2009
Q: I live in Western Australia. A number of outlets in one part of the house are not powering ... A: Not familiar with Australian wiring practice [thought I had thought of relocating at one time] DO ...
Fan works fan light does not.	8/5/2009
Q: Had a power outage. When power came back on the fan worked at one speed, the remote did not and the ... A: Sounds like the remote relay module blew up. With remote, chain does nothing useful-module controls ...
I know there is a splice, but I can't find it...Help please!	8/4/2009
Q: Okay. We inherited a very old house (1913 two story could count as three with the size of the ... A: No apologies necessary This mess is likely fed off another hidden splice, very possibly into the ...
Garage Door Opener Keeps Burning Out	7/31/2009
Q: I have 2 side-by-side garage doors with openers. Ten years ago when I built the house, the builder ... A: Maybe...but lightning is millions of volts and jumps 30,000 feet. You don't really believe you can ...
undercabinet lights	7/28/2009
Q: I would like to ask for assistance regarding kitchen undercabinet lights. I have a utilitech xenon ... A: Interesting and thoughtful consideration I recommend you contact the manufacturer and find out what ...
Outlets	7/27/2009
Q: I have two outlets that are dead. One is outside lower level. One is outside main level (directly ... A: You may believe all GFIs were checked, but outside recps says GFI... Either you have missed a GFI ...
power out in only 3 rooms	7/24/2009
Q: My daughter plugged in a vacuum in the living room. For whatever reason, the power went out in that ... A: The high current from the vacuum possibly caused an already poor connection to fail. You are lucky, ...
intermittent voltage drop in house	7/22/2009
Q: I am having a problem in my 200 year old house in West NJ, the house was wired with early Romex and ... A: Have you noticed any lamps getting really bright at the same time? You may have an open neutral. Go ...
Outdoor Wiring for Radon Pump	7/16/2009
Q: It calls for GFCI on ALL outdoor RECEPTACLES, but I am simply mounting a wall switch outside to ... A: A pump? It is a fan. You are installing a hard wired switch for a fan. No receptacle, right? [a ...
Ceiling Light Comes On By Itself	7/13/2009
Q: I had one ceiling light capped off when they were bldg. townhouse. One fan stopped working, cap had ... A: Is this stuff all on one circuit? You need to map out the circuit and find the first item on the ...
Low hanging aerial service lines	7/12/2009
Q: I'm not sure this is the place to ask this, but I've been researching for days and I can't find ... A: Six feet is too low. Likely utility problem and not a homeowner issue but contact the utility and ...
Electrical for Boat Lift Motors	7/10/2009
Q: I'm installing two 1hp 120-240V 13.6amp/6.8amp motors with protected (GFCI built into the plugs) ... A: Voltage drop on 10s is too high. You will need to keep within 3% recommended internal voltage drop. ...
change old fuse box too breaker panel	7/9/2009
Q: having a problem in the old fuse box the main lights fuse wires were 2 fifty amp fuses.i need to ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
Replacing an old combo switch	7/7/2009
Q: I'm trying to replace a switch/receptacle combo that broke. The switch runs the garbage disposal in ... A: What you are stating is mechanically impossible. There had to be more terminals and more wires [if ...
short in bathroom wiring to light fixture	6/30/2009
Q: Our Old fixture was flickering and then the light stopped working. We bought a new fixture and ... A: I take it this is a ceiling-mounted fixture? Drop the fixture and look for the place where the hot ...
Plastic cable sleeves	6/28/2009
Q: I am upgrading my electrical service from 100a to 200a. I have purchased a 200A panel and am ... A: An electricial contractor who is willing to change the mast and meter for you won't care what exists ...
Outdoor lights go out after couple minutes	6/25/2009
Q: I have four outdoor porch lights that I put up a couple years ago to replace older ones. The ... A: There is a bad splice somewhere you can't see then [assuming the wire didn't just break or get cut ...
3 way switch hookup	6/20/2009
Q: I am trying to wire up 3 way switches. I understand the concept but here's my problem: In one box I ... A: Yes, you can do it. Treat each "3-way" operation as a separate job. On one set you send the hot ...
Bad Electrical Outlet	6/19/2009
Q: BAD ELECTRICAL OUTLET I have an outlet that is not working. I tested it and it tested as ... A: I suppose it used to work ok? Wire it the way it was originally Plug in testers give false readings ...
pool bonding	6/18/2009
Q: The pool was bonded and inspected. The rebar was bonded but not inspected. The inspector shot the ... A: Nothing Whoever approved the pour without the inspection being completed was in error. If they do ...
Grounding old house 2 prong outlets	6/14/2009
Q: Our old house has mostly 2 prong outlets. An electrician installed 3 wall lights that had 3 prong ... A: What your "electrician" has done is against the NEC. The ground prong opening should be blocked or ...
3-Way -THREE pendant problem	6/12/2009
Q: I had a previous entry - newer problems... My switches keep blowing. I will attach what I have ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
Subpannel	6/11/2009
Q: A licenced electrician installed two sub pannels in my home. One in the garage and one in the ... A: I could've sworn I had answered this one... Question A: if Neutral and ground are connected at the ...
GFI	6/11/2009
Q: I am rewiring my wet boathouse and want to be sure it's protected from faults. Are GFI's only for ... A: I am acting under the belief that this is a private, owner-only boathouse, not a marina or public ...
Main breaker problem	6/10/2009
Q: Robert, I own a small residential home that I converted into a daycare facility for my wife in the ... A: Get the utility to replace the damaged aerial cable. This may have contributed to the main tripping, ...
Switch hook-up	6/9/2009
Q: I have a line that comes from my house to my deck. At that point it hooks up to two outdoor outlets ... A: Is it your purpose to control the first two outlets? Well then, you put a switch in the circuit ...
240 wiring	6/8/2009
Q: I am replacing a Jennair cooktop with a similar model with a similar energy rating. The newer ... A: A similar Jennair, or a similar non-Jennair unit? Never the less, the wiring configuration you ...
Adding fan/lite from receptacle	6/7/2009
Q: I want to add a dual switch to control a ceiling fan. I need to take the source from a receptacle ... A: If you REALLY knew how to do it at the end of the circuit, you would know how to do it in the middle ...
Phone Jack...looks like a main line of some kind	6/6/2009
Q: The phone jack in my kitchen was in an awkward place, in the corner under an island with seating. A ... A: That is an old outlet! You now only use 2 of the three wires - the ones which were connected to red ...
3 way switch	6/5/2009
Q: I have a hallway light that is controlled by two switches. On switch one there are two groups of ... A: No need to be confused. No need to panic. Electricity is actually very simple. There are just a lot ...
Attic Fan Wiring Therm-o-disc 775-1	5/29/2009
Q: I installed a new switched outlet in my attic and ran power to an attic fan that the previous ... A: If it only works when the temp is BELOW the attic temp, it makes it sound like a heating thermostat. ...
Circuit breaker not working	5/27/2009
Q: I have a an older electrical box with screw in fuses (4). I have a small picture diagram attached ... A: 1] You are installing a bad fuse as replacement 2] The fuse block is damaged 3] There is a bad ...
Nema wiring and outlets	5/23/2009
Q: I have an appliance that is rated 208-240v 13 amps 2700w. It came with a nema 6-20 power cord. I ... A: A real electrician shouldn't need a preamble or insteruction. Do you still want to plug in a dryer? ...
110 to 220 conversion	5/22/2009
Q: I posted this to another expert and got the response below. Any information would be appreciated. ... A: No good You are out of luck. Period. The reason you can't find the "electrician" is because he ain't ...
service grounding	5/16/2009
Q: I have a 100 amp service with a 100 amp disconnect, I was wondering how to properly ground this ... A: Why do people do things they know nothing about? You have a meter, a disconnect and then a remote ...
Wiring for well pump	5/10/2009
Q: I am replacing a pump for a shallow well. The original was wired for 120 V. The new motor is ... A: The number seems to be an Agrisupply number, not an XKJ number 115/230 means you can use either. ...
Changing out a 220 v 30 amp breaker	5/9/2009
Q: While replacing a water heater in a 30 year old house my step-son purchased 10 months ago, the 30 ... A: unless the anticipated balance of your corporeal existence is worth less than a few dollars. If you ...
Underground Wiring in Conduit Question	4/29/2009
Q: I searched the Ohio Revised Electrical Code (doing a job in Cleveland Ohio) and cannot find any code ... A: The NEC does not determine the utility of materials. The NEC requires that all materials be ...
wiring help	4/24/2009
Q: Robert, I'm doing an installation similar to the picture but the plug is a GFCI plug/switch. I'm ... A: you only need a red if you are continuing on after the bath light at the recp/switch combo: white ...
Outdoor electrical enclosure	4/23/2009
Q: I have a water pond in my backyard that I'm "raising from the dead". There are 4 outdoor spotlights ... A: Nice Any NEMA 3 enclosure will do [maybe $60-$80] You can get a NEMA 12 with hinged cover and a back ...
Wiring a GFCI	4/18/2009
Q: Mr. Wilber - Can you suggest a solution? I am trying to replace a combination switch and 3 prong ... A: you connected both blacks and the red together and also the 2 whites to each other? and it doesn't ...
Wiring a GFCI	4/17/2009
Q: Mr. Wilber - Can you suggest a solution? I am trying to replace a combination switch and 3 prong ... A: Get rid of the recp at the switch and wire it for switch only. Drop a recp out of the switch in a ...
Replacing (1) 3-way switch and (1) split outlet	4/8/2009
Q: Robert. I hope you can help us; we cant find anything addressing our particular setup and have tried ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
occassional pops	4/7/2009
Q: I moved an electrical outlet 1 foot over in prep of new kitchen. Used 3 wire Romex. Started ... A: What do you mean by "pops" - a noise or the circuit trips? It sounds, though, that you are referring ...
service wire	4/3/2009
Q: Robert I hope you can help me. I am running a service to my pole barn from 200 amp disconnect that ... A: shouldn't be a problem quadplex IS wet location rated [I mean-it is made to be in the rain and snow ...
ceiling fan hook up	3/31/2009
Q: Robert, I'd like to hook a ceiling fan for Mom, but I cant figure out how to open the fuse box ... A: The switch in a properly installed lighting configuration should shut the power off to the light. ...
Re-routing Air Cond. power cable	3/27/2009
Q: I recently discovered that my mother's A/C power cable (220 VAC, single phase, 10-2 plus GND ROMEX) ... A: Actually, wire nuts will do it just fine. They are rated for at least 300 volts and they make ...
3 way switch problem	3/25/2009
Q: I have a switch problem that I need some help with. May I first say that I have a basic ... A: I sure really hope there are more than just one each of red black and white wires in each box. If ...
where do the amps go?	3/24/2009
Q: After the voltage and the amps reach the load/resistance and do work, they follow the neutral out, ... A: My answer to this must have gotten lost in the ether... There is no remainder Voltage is the measure ...
drilling into a wall near electrical wiring box	3/23/2009
Q: and hit something that prevented me from drilling...I realize the area was very close to the light ... A: It might have been a nail plate, if there was a wire there and the electriciaxcn did a proper job, ...
Unfinished basement / Lighting near plumbing	3/21/2009
Q: I have a question related to running some extra lighting boxes in my unfinished basement. I am ... A: Consideration of potential for future abnormal failure service emergencies is not an installation ...
switches and plugs	3/20/2009
Q: i have 6 wires at a light switch box.1 is power from source.2 is power to another room. 3 is to a ... A: Boy, are YOU ever screwed... Did you at least label what wire went to what? Which went to the switch ...
Dead circuit	3/17/2009
Q: My basement is fully finished and unfortunately drywalled, including the ceilings. One of the ... A: Sounds like you have a real problem. Have you tested from a known hot source [end of an extension ...
disconnect box distance	3/17/2009
Q: hey there bob. how far can my 100amp residential breaker panel be away from my meter socket b4 I ... A: It can be 1,000 feet away, as long as you don't enter the building. When you enter the building, the ...
electrical reset button	3/15/2009
Q: An outlet goes out about every other day and I have to go to another room and push a reset button ... A: First, I would get rid of any supplier who vaguely threatens that I am "a fire waiting to happen." ...
electric range wiring	3/14/2009
Q: I just removed a 35 year old electric range that was hard wired. Coming from the wall is a Black ... A: Assume nothing or you will receive my snide "response to arrogant know-it-alls" letter... Ranges ...
new fixture has no ground wire	3/12/2009
Q: I'm replacing a ceiling light fixture which was connected to the ground wire... with a new simple ... A: I suppose that this isn't a UL listed fixture then, som you won't be voiding the listing... Either ...
Motion sensor control garage lights	3/11/2009
Q: I had a motion control dual light installed outside in between my 2 car garage. It work okay on a ... A: Sure Get rid of the motion sensor I don't like them I won't install them I won't maintain them See ...
Strange ground/neutral problems	3/7/2009
Q: .. I have a problem in my 50 year old house's electrical system. There is no ground wire in the ... A: You are the most recently discovered victim of "Handy Jack" Handy Jack is my less than affectionate ...
Outside lights won't work	3/5/2009
Q: I have just recently bought a foreclosure and have done all the needed repairs by myself. However I ... A: Wherever you plug in an extension cord, if the outlet works, there is a working hot and a working ...
Combination Switch/Receptacle	2/28/2009
Q: Robert:I am replacing a regular light switch for the cellar because I also need to light the ... A: what you plan won't work what you have is actually called a "switch leg" and you have no neutral You ...
Flickering and brown outs	2/27/2009
Q: For 4-5 days, I've noticed lights flickering in the house, our detached garage, and our barn. All ... A: The electrician didn't call the utility? Sounds like a bad connection on their lines. Call the ...
Undercabinet Lighting Problems	2/26/2009
Q: Ok, we have puck lights under our cabinets in the kitchen. They were wired 2.5 years ago and as of ... A: I expect you can fix them yourself. After all, the electrician is just another guy, too. Right? ...
knob and tube dilemma	2/25/2009
Q: I am an experienced mechanical professional, but this situation is driving me crazy. One question! ... A: So, how would that work? [remember the neutral bar is grounded, unless you have a fused neutral with ...
Arc Fault breaker circuit	2/24/2009
Q: I tried to install an AFCI on a rather large circuit which included fluorescent lights and ... A: Depending on who wired the circuit, and when, an AFCI may never work on it. There may be an illegal ...
Outlets in a Series Controlled by Two Three Way Switches	2/23/2009
Q: We recently painted a room and decided to change out all the switches and outlets to white ones. ... A: Well, you have the right idea, but I guess you weren't all that methodical, or there was madness to ...
problems with recessed lights and outlets frying polarized appliances	2/22/2009
Q: I am having an issue with some remodel work. I added two recessed fixtures to their own circuit 15 ... A: Well, you thought wrong. Based on the spacing of existing breakers, I am absolutely certain you have ...
problems with recessed lights and outlets frying polarized appliances	2/20/2009
Q: I am having an issue with some remodel work. I added two recessed fixtures to their own circuit 15 ... A: Three phase? It could possibly be a delta system. Did you notice that every third breaker space was ...
florescent lighs at my office	2/18/2009
Q: I have seven 3 x 4' flourescents at my office. Three of them were wired to stay on all the time. I ... A: They were likely installed [at great expense] as night lights with emergency backup units. They were ...
voltage on 220	2/13/2009
Q: I have a subpanel in my shop that is supplied from house panel by underground. There has been no ... A: You have an open neutral [or as near as ....] Check feed and load panel end terminations for ...
probable damage to electrical wires	2/11/2009
Q: We are building a new house in Indiana. The siding contractor shot nails through the breaker boxes. ... A: Bummer I know of no reliable test method that you could utilize The only sure answer would be to ...
electric	2/10/2009
Q: hi would want to know if its possible to put a 30 dbl to controll 4 heatears of 1500w A: 208 or 240 volt? It wouldn't matter if they are standard 240 volt heaters, because the wattage is ...
Metal Buildings	2/8/2009
Q: I have just recently installed a 200 amp meter can and main disconnect combo on a metal building ... A: The service ends at the main disconnect combo breaker. You need to run 4 conductors to the "panel" ...
getting results in writing	2/4/2009
Q: I might be barking up the wrong tree here,I moved into a old house 2 months ago and I received an ... A: Sue everyone in sight. File a complaint with the state Public Utility Commission. File a complaint ...
light/fan dimmer	2/2/2009
Q: "Hi. I am trying to connect a dimmer fan/light combo to my current fan with light. I have some ... A: you don't have enough wires to do what you want, you need at least one 3-wire up to the fan All ...
bathroom circut	1/31/2009
Q: I have 3 wires coming into where I want to put a gfci receptical. power coming in from panel, one ... A: It doesn't have 3 wires, it has 3 cables. Draw out the boxes, cables and wires [unterminated] and ...
front door sconces -- wiring	1/25/2009
Q: A friend of mine called me to take a look at this: she is having work done on her house (not ... A: Not enough info here to solve your problem. How many cables and wires at which boxes, and where do ...
Sub Panel Wire Size	1/24/2009
Q: I have a few questions regarding sub panels. Is the amp rating of a sub panel supposed to be higher ... A: There is no hope, only the rules. Conductor is protected by breaker. 50 amp breaker-50 amp ...
dimmer switch on ceiling lights	1/23/2009
Q: When I had my kitchen redone, the electrician installed lights in the ceiling and also wired a light ... A: For that to be true, the power not consumed at the light would have to be lost at the dimmer as ...
Flickering light and burnt switch	1/22/2009
Q: I have 2 lights on either side of my entry gate apporx 350 ft. from the house. I turned gate lights ... A: One bulb flickering means the problem is at the gate. Switch looking burnt could be caused due to ...
Chandelier with 230 volts bulbs.	1/21/2009
Q: I bought chandeliers from overseas. They have different European socket with light bulbs with 230 ... A: I just typed: 120v european lamps in the search window in google. These sites were ...
lights dim when a/c energized	1/20/2009
Q: when my condensing unit or dryer is energized, the lights on one or more circuits dim and flicker ... A: Don't worry about the aluminum cable or alloy bus. Just check terminations for mechanical failure ...
Type of wire	1/18/2009
Q: I am building a barn, it is 300 ft from the 320 power box on the house. I will have lights a couple ... A: CSA=KIL/Vd CSA=Conductor Area in circular mils K=Conductance factor I=Load Current in amps L=Round ...
cold air coming out from high hat lighting	1/17/2009
Q: My question to you is that we had installed high hat lighting in the summer time and now that it is ... A: There are 2 types of recessed light, those that are rated for direct contact with insulation and ...
Too much on one circuit.	1/9/2009
Q: Can you tell me if the 80% rule for circuit load is required or just recommended for unnecessary ... A: You have about 600 watts in lighting and an 1100 watt microwave. I would expect the circuit to trip ...
Wall Recepticles	1/6/2009
Q: I have 4 wall recepticles with two outlets in each. The top outlet on all the recepticles is only ... A: Just one red wire? Turn the power off. replace receptacle with a new duplex receptacle. do not break ...
Service problem.	1/3/2009
Q: I have a 200 amp underground service that runs 150 feet from the pole where the meter is directly to ... A: Bad news. Sure sounds like a bad conductor [if your tests are right] and, yes, it happens all the ...
Service problem.	1/2/2009
Q: I have a 200 amp underground service that runs 150 feet from the pole where the meter is directly to ... A: First of all, you did not lose a phase. You have single phase service from a center-tapped 240-volt ...
Electrical interference With TV	1/1/2009
Q: I have a TV,DVD on 1 outlet in a room with 3 outlets-on the other outlet I have a computer and paper ... A: Well, you have got me stumped. Know anyone with an oscilloscope? I had a commercial customer once ...
interior lights on involuntary	12/28/2008
Q: My home is 38 yrs old. The canned lights in my kitchen came on by themselves. I turned them off at ... A: The lots of rain statement makes me think it is probably related to your service entrance. Happen ...
Twisting Wires	12/26/2008
Q: I consider myself a reasonably skilled electrical DIYer and I understand most of the concepts of ... A: Linesman's pliers. Start with long unstripped conductor ends, twist them together leaving the ends ...
Breakers crackling	12/24/2008
Q: I have some crackling coming out of my breaker box and it is hard to tell what breaker the noise is ... A: Loose termination at breaker or lug Bad breaker REALLY bad breaker - loose connection to bus [risk ...
Question about stripping wire	12/23/2008
Q: I've read that you aren't supposed to nick the conductor when your stripping wire. I only read this ... A: well, there is nicked and there is marked... I think that if you use the number fourteen gauge ...
Wiring a split a/c system	12/18/2008
Q: Mr. Wilber, I am in the process of wiring up a 240 V ductless split a/c system. The outdoor unit ... A: On what basis are you allowing 14 gauge for the outdoor unit? ...and what fuse/breaker/protective ...
trouble shooting electrical	12/17/2008
Q: Last two weeks my garage electrical has worked one minute and the next it doesn't. I have a cb box ... A: Sounds like it could be a bad main, but it could also be the power company lost a line, or any one ...
Cable size	12/5/2008
Q: I am looking to put an outside light on my land I also would like to run wire to my out buildings ... A: calculate yourself Cross sectional area in circular mils= k factor [~12 for aluminum] * I [current ...
Dining Room Chandelier Wiring	11/29/2008
Q: My electrician has left 3 wires (black, white, red) and a copper wire for a dining room chandelier. ... A: I don't know what wiring practices are in Italy, so I guess you have to contact the manufacturer. [I ...
Red and Black Wires taped Together	11/27/2008
Q: Today I had a plumber install a new natural gas 50 gallon water heater. I converted from electric ... A: I feel I can say with reasonable confidence that your old water heater electric line has nothing to ...
Circuit Breaker Trip	11/26/2008
Q: I have a 7 year old house that we have been the only owners of. For the past two months, one ... A: Intermittent problems are the most annoying and the most difficult to address. Metal or plastic ...
Service Entrance Wire - re-use, replace, or upgrade?	11/25/2008
Q: In a big storm, my service entrance wire came unattached from the house. The electric company has ... A: It isn't 110, it is 100-amp. It isn't 220, it is 200-amp. You won't get 200-amp wire in a 100-amp ...
Bathrrom Fixtures power is out but GFCI outlet works	11/19/2008
Q: My 1/2 bathroom has a fan, ceiling light and vanity light. I flip the switch and they all do not ... A: Your GFI is probably on a different [20-amp appliance] circuit. [especially in a newer home] Sounds ...
Changing my 200AMP panel	11/6/2008
Q: I have an old Sylvania bolt-on 200amp service panel with 40 breaker slots. It's full and due to the ... A: Maybe you only have a 100-amp meter. And I can't see your job, so who am I to contradict someone who ...
battery	10/28/2008
Q: I guess i was wondering if that would work, and how long it would last, with a average size battery ... A: couldn't say How many volt-amp-hours will the battery deliver? and what is the heaters wattage? ...
adding wiring to distant existing receptacle	10/20/2008
Q: I have a question that it holding me back from completing this job. The situation is that the last ... A: Sounds like an old row house A newer building would have adequate receptacles on most if not all ...
Change in VAc	10/16/2008
Q: Robert, I currently have a 220 VAC stove that is being replaced with a gas unit that needs 110VAC to ... A: It isn't as simple as you make it sound, but properly configured, there is no reason you could not ...
Automatic electrical shutoff switch	10/14/2008
Q: I am adding a sunroom with a 2 ton HVAC. My house is fairly small with an HVAC already installed. ... A: It is difficult to say without knowing the precise configuration of your transfer setup. You could ...
water heater element wiring burning out?	10/13/2008
Q: I'm trying to find an answer to my problem, any advice you can share will be great. I have a ... A: Does the element burn out? ...or are we talking about the same element burning up the wire conected ...
Generator Wiring	10/10/2008
Q: I have a 5550 watt generator and want to run a two wire with ground 12 Ga 100' extension cord from ... A: You asked I answered That isn't sarcasm. I mean it. Install a transfer switch or do what you please. ...
220 volt switching	10/5/2008
Q: Can I buy a 220 switch that will alow me to swich to 3 different locations from a single 220 source? ... A: I have never looked for one. I don't know what application they would make one for. You could always ...
garage door opener wiring	9/30/2008
Q: We want to pre wire for a garage door opener that we have not purchased or decided on yet. What ga. ... A: 18 ga. should be fine, but I would decide what door opener I want to install first and see what ...
is my panel box up to code?	9/29/2008
Q: i recently acquired an old shotgun house in ky. i wonder if my panelbox is up to code without hiring ... A: You would need a copy of the NEC in force when your house was wired and/or the service was upgraded. ...
I screwed up a circuit in my house!	9/28/2008
Q: To begin with, we have a switched outlet (the top of the outlet is switched, the bottom is always ... A: Switch leg.. one of the cables goes from the receptacle to the switch.. [there is only the one cable ...
Adding ground wire to old 2 wire outlet	9/22/2008
Q: I just had this done by an electrician I found in the Penny Savers. He supposed to have drilled ... A: Your conditions are unclear. I can't tell without seeing the installation or getting a better ...
erratic table saw behavior	9/18/2008
Q: ive got a 10" home table saw that suddenly has not behaved normally. while sawing one day, it just ... A: a clue here is the "it starts when I spin it by hand" note. circuit breaker? [thermal cutout unit?] ...
Voltage drop	9/17/2008
Q: In a 6 outlet GFCI circuit in a new Modular home kitchen 4 outlets measure 120v and function ... A: 1] GFIs are not designed to control voltage levels. 2] You shouldn't be able to read voltage to ...
lighting, metal halides 208 versus 240	9/16/2008
Q: ..I have an opportunity to purchase numerous metal halide lights for greenhouse tomato production, ... A: have the equipment examined I think it likely you will find that the ballasts are multi-tap units ...
Converting ceiling fixture to plug into wall plug	9/9/2008
Q: First, thanks in advance for your help. I think this question has an easy answer, but here we go. ... A: search google with the phrase "male cord cap" this was on first page of results: ...
GFCI Plug	9/8/2008
Q: I'm trying to wire a GFCI Plug and am having a problem. There are a total of 9 wires in the old ... A: Your statement seems problematic. You say that the one black wire shows 120 volts when connected to ...
Arc Fault Breaker tripping on new ceiling fan	9/7/2008
Q: My house is 4 years old and has arc fault breakers for the bedrooms. I've installed a new ceiling ... A: since it happens when you try EITHER the fan OR lights, I don't see why it would be the fan.. does ...
Electric current in my shower	9/3/2008
Q: I can feel an electric current in my shower. I don't feel it unless I am in the shower, the shower ... A: You could always just be nuts, have a pinched nerve, etc., but your kid says he feels it too. ...of ...
Low voltage in several outlets on the same circuit	8/29/2008
Q: There are seven outlets in series all connected to a 20 amp GFCI breaker. The problem I'm having is ... A: if the gfi can interrupt the ciruit, there are contacts, right? my first guess would be a bad ...
Square D Safety Switch	8/28/2008
Q: This unit is early to mid-60's with screw in fuses and I believe is the overload trip for the ... A: OK then. I don't think this should be blowing the 15 amp fuse The only thing I can think is that you ...
Square D Safety Switch	8/27/2008
Q: This unit is early to mid-60's with screw in fuses and I believe is the overload trip for the ... A: The switch is rated for 30 amperes - current 15 amps on each leg would be 15 amps current. OK? ...
Chandelier wiring	8/26/2008
Q: I am trying to hang a new chandelier. The old one was wired to a yellow and a white wire from the ... A: 600 volts only refers to insulation rating, not actual voltage present. The neutral [really the ...
Question about capping a wire to a wall heater	8/25/2008
Q: I have just removed a baseboard heater, and do not want to install another, I just want to drywall ... A: YOU DO UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A HIGHLY SKILLED, EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL GIVING ...
Question about capping a wire to a wall heater	8/23/2008
Q: I have just removed a baseboard heater, and do not want to install another, I just want to drywall ... A: You obviously didnt read my profile. I don't teach basics to the ungrateful and lazy. Do your ...
Garage Lights	8/19/2008
Q: Have a problem with outside garage light pair, standard builders’ grade fixtures from Lowes: Both ... A: there are 2 possibilities that come to mind order of likelihood 1] loose connection at socket in ...
Circuit for Cooktop	8/17/2008
Q: I'm looking to replace a Jenn Air downdraft electric cooktop with an induction cooktop. The Jenn ... A: Sounds like it was undersupplied to begin with... 8 kw would be more than 30 amps, and there should ...
Uneven Voltage	8/11/2008
Q: Im having a big problem with electric in my duplex. Whenever anything electrical is run (lights, ... A: What makes you think it isn't the power coming into the building? Open neutral Main panel, meter ...
200 amp service on a 100 amp feed	8/6/2008
Q: We are selling our home and ran into a problem when we had it inspected. We bought the property with ... A: you have a 100 amp service entrance on the pole? Does it go through a 100-amp breaker at the pole? ...
Wall Oven	7/31/2008
Q: Bob - I was reading an old posting about installing a wall oven. As I understood your answer, you ... A: The only reference I can find about anything like this was a cooktop rather than a wall oven, and ...
requirements	7/27/2008
Q: I'm selling my home. I recently replaced our old bubble tub with a new one. It's on it's own ... A: What inspector? A "Housing Inspector"? Like the guy who gets $300 to tell some buyer what is wrong ...
Kitchen wiring	7/26/2008
Q: A few questions questions ATM... I'm installing a sub-panel for the "new" half of the house in ... A: Why wouldn't GFIs be ok in a subpanel? Switches don't need to be GFI protected, but the receptacles ...
electronics fail in one room only	7/25/2008
Q: In one room of my house, all of my electonics routinely fail. I have been through several dvd ... A: ..sounds like you would just be preparing top discard a UPS if you do. Check your voltage levels for ...
Lights blinking	7/24/2008
Q: Just in the past week I have noticed that all of the lights in my house begin blinking once every 2 ... A: Define fire... It could be a bad breaker or an impending panel bus burnout due to loose breakers ...
dead wires?	7/23/2008
Q: I hope I haven't asked you before - I've tried so many people. OK, rain fried an outside receptacle ... A: Rain fried an outside receptacle (my fault, no GFI). **What do you mean by "fried"? COuld there be a ...
40 amp/30 amp circuit sharing	7/4/2008
Q: I have two machines, one requires a 40 amp circuit, the other a 30 amp. I know that the two ... A: Don't quote me on this, but I think that you can use 10 gauge if terminated properly under the 25 or ...
50 amp breaker keeps triping	7/2/2008
Q: i purchased a house approx 5 years ago w/ a separate workshop in the backyard that has been wired w/ ... A: Objectionable ground current is most copmmon unsatisfactory result Ground rods are lightning route, ...
50 amp breaker keeps triping	6/30/2008
Q: i purchased a house approx 5 years ago w/ a separate workshop in the backyard that has been wired w/ ... A: Since the panel was fed with the wrong gauge conductors for the breaker size, Let us suppose that ...
Electrical outlets	6/18/2008
Q: In my house all the outlets have 2 holes instead of three. Most of the appliances out there have 3 ... A: The problem and expense aren't changing the outlets. Devices cost relatively nothing. The problem is ...
Lawnmower disaster	6/17/2008
Q: So I borrowed a lawnmower because mine was out of commission. The lawnmower I borrowed was an ... A: not THAT freaky really. it is allowed to have the lights on the bath receptacle circuit if the ...
High electric bill, possible bad wiring?	6/14/2008
Q: we bought our home a year and a half ago. It is a new construction with energy efficient everything ... A: So, shut EVERYTHING.. lights refrigerator water heater ice maker fans A/C Washer Dryer TVs ...off ...
proper terminating techniques for solid wire	6/9/2008
Q: Some of my co-workers and I are debating whether or not it is good practice to twist your solid ... A: I don't think you will find ANY manufacturer who says "ABSOLUTELY DON'T twist first!" They will say, ...
replacement GFCI combo outlet/switch	6/8/2008
Q: I have done most of the renovation in a bathroom in my NYC apartment, and wanted to change the light ... A: There are 2 blacks and 2 whites at the switch box There are one black and white at the light One ...
color coding individual wires in SCH40 PVC conduit	5/29/2008
Q: I have a question on color coding individual wires that are run in a SCH40 PVC conduit. I have a ... A: nope, that is the convention... of course you could always label both ends of the wires BEFORE you ...
combo outlet	5/27/2008
Q: I am having trouble installing a new combo outlet...the outlet is a combo switch/outlet..I have ... A: So, were you clever enough to make a drawing of where the wires went before you took them apart? ...
Wiring a new receptacle from single-pole switch	5/25/2008
Q: I am trying to add a receptacle near a new work box that currently has a single-pole switch in it ... A: One of the blacks on the switch is the hot, the other is controlled by the switch. So just find out ...
short in electrical wiring for outlet	5/24/2008
Q: I had a breaker for a bedroom that tripped and wouldn't reset. Ohmmeter readings at the wall outlets ... A: have you REMOVED all the devices from the circuit when taking your readings? ...you can at least ...
307 volts on 240 volt circuit	5/8/2008
Q: I have a wall oven (electric) that I have replaced two control boards on. The first I replaced ... A: Well, unlikely anyway, but it would not be unusual to see 260 volts. Now 130 volts is not an ...
1-exhaust fan, 2-rooms, 2-switches	5/2/2008
Q: I have (1) exhaust fan mounted in the attic with (2)-2" intake lines sucking air from one small ... A: why four-ways? there are only 2 control locations for one device... why double pole? isn't this a ...
Capped neutral wire on a 240V circuit to well pump motor.	4/29/2008
Q: From the main service panel on 2-30A breakers, a 3-wire 240V circuit runs outside to a subpanel at ... A: as long as all you have is a 240 volt load, there is no need for a neutral, only a ground, which ...
Adding elec. stove to service	4/28/2008
Q: I have a 200amp service box with (6 20amp110)(2 40amp220-one air conditioner, one dryer, on left ... A: If you go and look at a panel interior at one of the endless home supply centers, you may observe ...
GFCI along side light switch	4/26/2008
Q: I have a light switch next to a GFCI. I put all wires on Line side of GFCI and I have power but ... A: Your lighting and receptacle circuits shouldn't be tied together in the kitchen unless your house ...
open neutral	4/22/2008
Q: I have 5 receptacles on same circuit, 1 in the garage, 1 in the powder room, 2 in the bath room, and ... A: look for a loose connection or damage at the outside receptacle, as this sounds like the first ...
Garage Overhead Lighting Wiring	4/20/2008
Q: I tried to replace an overhead garage light and did not write down the wiring diagram. There are ... A: so, let me guess... you remade the splices in the lighting box, huh? didn't it occur to you that ...
mysterious wiring issue, at least to me....	4/15/2008
Q: The problem I am having seems to be right up your alley. I just paid a giant bill to a guy who ... A: you need to draw out the circuit and figure where each wire goes to and comes from then you will ...
Microwave keeps tripping breaker	4/9/2008
Q: Help! We just had a new home constructed and recently moved in (30 days ago). I noticed the other ... A: I found a unit like the one described. GE Profile 36" Spacemaker Over The-Range Microwave Oven - ...
generator	3/21/2008
Q: We know that ground faults need a path to its source to operate the overcurrent device, the source ... A: I think they are saying not to bond the grounded conductor to the grounding conductor at the ...
PhotoCell switched light	3/20/2008
Q: I installed a photocell switch for the porch light to turn on at dusk and turn off in the morning. ... A: OMG I always get the weird ones... Next time the light fails to come on, you need to make sure ...
plug ins	3/18/2008
Q: I replaced all the plug ins and light switches in my cottage. Nothing works now, except the base ... A: The clue here seems to me to be the note about the lights dimming orange... sounds like you might ...
plug ins	3/17/2008
Q: I replaced all the plug ins and light switches in my cottage. Nothing works now, except the base ... A: OMG! How many openings are we talking about? of what types? What still works? Did you open any of ...
10-30R wiring help	3/10/2008
Q: My mother just moved, and I need to hook up her dryer. There is a two wire cable connected to the ... A: Well, for one thing, you don't know much and haven't spent much time investigating or learning about ...
HELP WIRES CROSSED"	2/27/2008
Q: IM STUCK, I TOOK MY VANITY LIGHT DOWN AND PULLED THE WIRES APART,BUT I DONT KNOW WHERE THE WIRES ... A: Oops...time to slit your wrists..... actually, it is no biggie. But, that was dumb, why the hell did ...
rewiring an old lamp	2/26/2008
Q: I have an old Y shaped lamp with two bulb sockets and one switch. The switch is attached to the ... A: I guess so. Couldn't tell you. Who made the switch? You should be able to get a wiring diagram for ...
Electrical Problem with Boiler Heater	2/24/2008
Q: According to your profile you are up to challenges, Great! Here's good one. My Natural Gas Boiler ... A: Sounds like a classic open neutral [or substantially so] When your oven heats it provides a ...
Suppling a Paint Booth	2/20/2008
Q: Robert, I have been asked to wire the supply circuits for a new paint booth for a body shop that I ... A: 20 amps is too low for a 17 amp load [80% continuous loading rules] Check with the manufacturer. ...
Wire gauge for 7.5hp Snap-on air compressor	2/17/2008
Q: I recently bought a used 7.5hp 80 gallon Snap-on air compressor. It has a Baldor motor that ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
home wiring	2/12/2008
Q: i have a problem with my lights. theres two lights in the middle if the hallway one light switch at ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Possible 220v wiring problem or bad electric clothe dryer.	2/11/2008
Q: Today I started to do my laundry and when I tried to start the clothe dryer, nothing happened. I ... A: * LIFE SAFETY WARNING! [disclaimer] Electricity is dangerous! You can be injured or killed! Improper ...
Crystal Chanedlier Wiring from Brataslavia	2/5/2008
Q: I purchased 2 crystal chandeliers from Brataslavia and they have the 220 wiring in them. I wish to ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Ridiculous ...
240v Electric Garage Heater	2/4/2008
Q: I am in the process of installing a 240v heater for the garage. I have a 50amp sub panel (off a ... A: ...except you DON'T have a 50 amp subpanel - 8s aren't good for 50... you don't have a 30 amp ...
Hot Water Heater Timer	2/2/2008
Q: I'm replacing the timer that was 30 years old with a similar model. The old one just died. It's ... A: How should I know? Who made your old timer? Who made the new one? Same people? Did you change the ...
strange voltage problem	1/31/2008
Q: 1) If I turn off all the breakers in my panel, the incoming red hot to neutral is 110v, and incoming ... A: Depending where you are in the US, and what voltage you are served with, the incoming hot to hot ...
hot water heater on/off switch	1/28/2008
Q: I travel a lot and would like to install an ON/OFF switch to turn off my water heater. I have been ... A: What kind of switch and box? Water heaters are usually 5000 watt elements, so you will need a 240 ...
wiring a light, 3-way switch and then outlet	1/26/2008
Q: I have a kitchen light with a 2 wire power source that I need to add a 3-way switch to. After the ... A: the three wire is there because the hot travels through on the black. the red is switched you will ...
Light fixture overheating	1/16/2008
Q: I recently replaced an antiquated light fixture. It's rated for 75 watts and I put a 60 watt bulb ... A: I assume you are talking about the new fixture being rated for 75 watts [an unusual value...] Unless ...
Please help me figure out a dryer cord....	12/11/2007
Q: Does ANYONE know what the 1/12 stands for? PETRA 90-2028 4-Wire Dryer Cords - 30A (Closed Eyelet) ... A: UL label is the key If an item has a UL label, you have to check what the listing is for. If the ...
Outdoor receptiacle	12/10/2007
Q: My outdoor receptale for Xmas light got a yellow light which I guess indicates that it's tripped. ... A: Hard to say. Some outlets have a light when on, some when off with power at line terminals. Could ...
Please help me figure out a dryer cord....	12/9/2007
Q: Does ANYONE know what the 1/12 stands for? PETRA 90-2028 4-Wire Dryer Cords - 30A (Closed Eyelet) ... A: Here is the company site depicting your cord. http://www.petra.com/index.php?page=9 It says ten ...
Dead short in wiring.	12/6/2007
Q: I created a dead short in an split outlet. I do not know which circuit breaker because none of ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Sharing power	12/3/2007
Q: I am installing 2 sets of recessed light in living room. Existing construction and on 1st floor i.e. ... A: Yes. It is ok to share power for lighting from a general convenience outlet, but not from kitchen, ...
wirering??	11/29/2007
Q: Ok,I bought 3 ceiling lights that are the same,I had one light that was there before, replacing with ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
220-volt	11/28/2007
Q: Hey Robert, I am a remodeling contractor working on a masterbath, and it appears to have a heatlamp ... A: 220 heat lamp? ...not likely, though there may be a built in heater [common] that requires a whole ...
ceiling fan wiring	11/26/2007
Q: I am trying to install a ceiling fan. The junction box has 2 white wires capped, 1 purple, and 1 ... A: first and foremost, you must replace the existing box with a fan-rated box if it is not fan-rated My ...
ac/furnace/ dryer on same circuit breaker	11/18/2007
Q: I just bought a 10yr old condo-electrical box has 125 max. I have been replacing the ... A: Unfortunately, there is no easy way - you are using the way that works, unless you have a circuit ...
Ceiling Fan Wiring	11/16/2007
Q: I install two ceiling fans and have had no problem with the installations, but after I installed ... A: First, If you read the directions to seek information, you will read that it says I don't teach ...
suggestion	11/15/2007
Q: I just want to ask for your advice in bringing well pump, and septic pump wires from outside by ... A: 1] remove the well and septic from the existing source and extend them to a new subpanel fed by the ...
Ceiling Fan Wiring	11/13/2007
Q: I install two ceiling fans and have had no problem with the installations, but after I installed ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
Changing shed wiring	11/12/2007
Q: I have 10/2 UF running to my shed for 110v..I overwire everything. But now I'd like to change that ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
Conduit for THHN Conductors?	11/10/2007
Q: I've relocated to the Austin TX area and I'm purchasing a house built in 1992. During the ... A: yup need an accessible [not in an attic] disconnect and circuit overcurrent device where the service ...
2 prong to 3 prong outlet	11/3/2007
Q: OK, I've done my research but can't seem to get a proper answer. I wish to upgrade the 2 prong ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * According ...
Disconnect Switch	11/2/2007
Q: I wanted to install a disconnect switch for my hot tub, so I bought a switch rated at 60 amps 240 ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Service Panel Interlok	10/29/2007
Q: I was considering installing a product "Interlokit" (Richmond, Va. company)and on their site they ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Too many wires in box	10/28/2007
Q: I'm replacing a ceiling light in a bathroom. I put in a new ceiling octagon box to replace the old, ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
neutral wire is hot	10/24/2007
Q: at my church, i am having trouble with some wiring.the neutral wire is hot.the box which is embedded ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Ceiling fan wiring to wall recepticle, exposed romex, & outdated wiring	10/23/2007
Q: Mr. Wilber - Thank you for taking the time to read my question. First, I'll mention that I worked ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Flickering Power and additional note	10/22/2007
Q: Here's my situation. I have intermittent flickering power in my home. I'm not sure when it started, ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Replacing existing ceiling fan/Adding remote receiver	10/21/2007
Q: The home supplies three hots and three neutrals. When I tie in the ceiling fan to the receiver, I am ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
grounding an ungrounded run	10/20/2007
Q: I have a 1960 built home in Tyler texas. There are two bathrooms with ceiling light/heater/exhaust ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
home electric, breaker no power	10/18/2007
Q: ok.. here's a good one.. noticed one outlet not working.. so I started to look into it.. found out ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
code	10/17/2007
Q: I am a carpenter not a electrician. Recently I had two electricians doing some work for me in a ... A: AIN'T IT A SHAME WHEN KIDS CAN'T PLAY TOGETHER? ..anyway ... Delaware County where? Largely, most ...
400watt commercial outside light	10/16/2007
Q: Robert, what wire and amp breaker do i have to use to make this work? I hooked it up to a 2o amp ... A: Check that the voltage supplied matches the voltage required. [400 watts is 3.5 amps at 120 volts, ...
Electrical Short	10/8/2007
Q: I was installing drywall over a light switch when it hit another switch and sparked, killing the ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Hot on ...
douplex outlet on switch	10/7/2007
Q: I just build a new house and requested for 1 outlet per room be on a switch. The electrician wired ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * It depends ...
partial power outages	10/5/2007
Q: I appreciate your time on this as it is perplexing me greatly! For the past few days, I have been ... A: I would bet on a loose wire in the receptacle behind your bed ... You may find a bad speed-wire ...
surge protecters, line conditioners	10/1/2007
Q: I have 2 questions. First of all, I bought a APC ups for my computer and music equipment. My issue ... A: 1] off click is bigger because the current is attempting to continue flowing... I had a customer ...
3 wire plug 4 wire outlet	9/29/2007
Q: I read your answer to the question about hooking up a 220V welder or air compressor to a 4 wire ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
ceiling fan wiring	9/27/2007
Q: i am replacing a ceiling fan with seperate wall switchs... from the ceiling there are 2 white, 2 ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Well, ...
RV Wiring	9/22/2007
Q: I am in NZ and have an american Motor home. We Have 240 volt supply into a step down transformer, ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * ...
Outlet(s) Failures	9/20/2007
Q: In the middle of some home improvement projects, I've taken down a wall and moved one outlet around. ... A: Further investigation show 110V across the hot and neutral, but next to nothing is registering ...
Severed Extension Cord	9/17/2007
Q: .. Recently, my wife was using our electric hedge trimmer at our new house (built in 1995). She ... A: sounds like a GFI trip to me keep looking could be in the basement at the panel or a sump pump ...
still voltage when light turned off	9/16/2007
Q: I am a non-pro home handyman I would say, I have wired basements, and replaced many receptacles, ... A: hmm..... sounds like some standards in Canada are sifferent than here.. In the US the center post in ...
compact flourescent bulbs	9/15/2007
Q: I wonder if you can explain what is happening. I just returned from a friend that built a new house ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Probably ...
Sub panel feed	9/14/2007
Q: i have a 100 amp main for the house, and have added 1 floor to the house. to feed the sub panel ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * If you ...
tankless water heater electricity spike	9/13/2007
Q: I'm interested in getting an electric tankless water heater which pulls 100 amps of electricity. I ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I have ...
Utilizing 14-30 receptacle for Steam Generator	9/10/2007
Q: My laundry and master bath is in one room. My dryer is gas. I have just purchased a modular steam ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I suppose ...
re wiring a new light	9/9/2007
Q: I currently have a standard bayonet cup light that is controlled from 2 switches. I have just bought ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You have a ...
Fed Pacific Circuit Breakers/Fuse box	9/7/2007
Q: IS there any credence behind the fire hazard/faulty breaker rumor regarding Fed. Pacific fuse box? ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * National ...
220 plug single phase	9/6/2007
Q: I believe it's a 220 plug single phase, but please correct me if I'm wrong. How would I be able to ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Sounds ...
Old style combined parallel/tandem outlet	9/3/2007
Q: o. ? - the house, not the dad) I found an outlet I've never seen before. It looks like this: ... A: Looks like a standard obsolete 110v outlet. 48 volts sounds like a dead circuit with a digital ...
determining wire rating in degrees celcius	8/30/2007
Q: I want to install an overhead light (already purchased). A warning on the box states it requires ... A: well, I guess it is like so much else in life .. you can follow the rules, or have what you want, ...
Pool pump was tripping gri until I...	8/27/2007
Q: Put wd 40 on the rusted part that spins when the motor is on. This is a small rod type piece that ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I cannot ...
220v to 110v	8/26/2007
Q: I have existing 220v where a stove was and I want to use the source to power a 110v exhaust fan and ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * What about ...
outdoor pool/pond	8/24/2007
Q: I have dug out an old inground pond. I poured a new floor and piping. I have built a pump house 6 ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Sorry. I ...
Ceiling fan switch	8/17/2007
Q: We also have a ceiling fan w/light, and the light turns on itself. Also, the fan will change speed ... A: More likely that the fan and light are controlled by a unit in the fan canopy, with a remote ...
GFI Failure/	8/15/2007
Q: Ihave a circuit in my home that includes 3 outlets in a kitchen, and 2 outlets in an adjacent room. ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Load centers	8/13/2007
Q: Help! can you tell me what is the lingo with breaker box What is 20/30 20/20 20/24 poles. I have ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I believe ...
outlet working off a switch	8/12/2007
Q: I have an outlet in my home office where the top part of the outlet is live all the time and the ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Leave it ...
Switching Problem	8/11/2007
Q: I'm installing some pot lights and wall skonses in my basement and I'm running into a problem ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
outlet wiring	8/9/2007
Q: in general, how many 15amp outlets do you link to one fuse?? 1 fuse per room (4-5 outlets), more or ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I will ...
Adding subpanel to detached carriage house	8/8/2007
Q: Recently moved into a house built in 1901 in Central Ohio. Main elec panel and almost all wiring has ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Air Compressor hook up	8/7/2007
Q: I just got a Coleman Powermate 60 Gal Air Compressor that runs on 220. It came with no plug so I am ... A: well, that's great. Glad to hear it. I guess if I had a chance to have come by and look at what you ...
Electric leaking	8/6/2007
Q: I have a problem with my kettle where I can feel electric shock when touching it. Its not only ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * There are ...
faulty switches?	8/4/2007
Q: I have two rooms that I assume are on the same circuit because neither light is coming on. I know ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * How do you ...
Circut Breaker	8/3/2007
Q: We were watching tv and both went out on main floor everthing else was still working. We reset the ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * both WHAT ...
Home wiring/ 4 gang box with a traveler	8/2/2007
Q: I have a big problem with my wiring. I'm remodeling my kitchen. In the process i knocked a wall down ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
wiring to detached garage	8/1/2007
Q: I am going to replace the wiring to my garage. From 200A panel in house, a 30A breaker is dedicated ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Multi-gang wallbox 1?	7/31/2007
Q: I am about to install a 4-gang wallbox to house the following Lutron NovaT switches: 1) A general ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You had me ...
electric outlet	7/28/2007
Q: The electrical outlet in a wall that is the GFI (the one with the test buttons) is not working has ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
12/3 SJTOW wire	7/27/2007
Q: I need to run a 12/3 wire to my shop that is 50ft away from the house. There will be a 20amp break ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
overhead ceiling fan light	7/26/2007
Q: Our Casablanca ceiling fan light is operated by a wall switch. It has started to come on by itself. ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * If the ...
Light switch trips breaker when turned off	7/24/2007
Q: I have a light switch that trips the breaker when it is in the off position. The breaker will trip ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * The ...
burnt up electrical outlet	7/23/2007
Q: I have a outlet that my aboveground pool is plugged up to by extension cord. It has worked fine for ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * 1] Loose ...
Installing a GFCI in a 14/3 Box to 2 Appliances	7/21/2007
Q: I have an existing outlet box on my house's exterior patio wall. The box was used by the ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Did the ...
hot tub wiring	7/20/2007
Q: I have an older house with an ungrounded electrical panel with an available 40 amp 220 ungrounded ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I don't ...
new service	7/17/2007
Q: Robert I'm installing new service to my garage,200 amp single phase,I have the breaker box mounted ... A: Service ends at disconnect below meter. Ground rod connected to neutral at disconnect below meter. ...
new service	7/16/2007
Q: Robert I'm installing new service to my garage,200 amp single phase,I have the breaker box mounted ... A: Will there be a disconnect [breaker] at the meter location for the feeder to the new panel? [Service ...
GFCI outlet keeps tripping	7/14/2007
Q: I have a GFCI outlet in my garage(back side of the kitchen and bathroom), I ASSUME it is this way ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I don't ...
Ceiling Fan and Dimmer Switch	7/13/2007
Q: I am having trouble with a ceiling fan /dimmer combo and I would appreciate your help. Note that ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Tripping GFI Breaker	7/11/2007
Q: I wired a bedroom with 12/2wg on three sockets and 14/2wg on two lights. I used a 20amp GFI breaker ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
three way	7/10/2007
Q: Hey robert I have a problem with a 3way. I have power coming into first box 2wire, switch leg goes ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
appliances don't work AFTER INSTALL	7/8/2007
Q: Hey......I just rewired the main service wires upto the breaker in my house. Instead of BUYING the ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
220 wiring for electric baseboard heat	7/4/2007
Q: I want to install some electric baseboard heaters in several apartments I am rehabing, but have not ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
wiring multiple lights	7/3/2007
Q: I want to connect five reccessed lights. The feed comes through first switch to each light then ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
pool pump	6/30/2007
Q: My new pool pump comes wired for 230v...it is easily changed to 115v. How can I find out what my ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
old dryer wiring receptacle	6/28/2007
Q: I have some friends in a kennel in Long Pond PA that I recently purchased an oldie but goodie Maytag ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
GFI Reset	6/26/2007
Q: both other day both my outside outlets went dead. I checked the breaker box and they are listed as ... A: - Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * There is a ...
spotlights	6/25/2007
Q: i hope you can help me. I have a living room that leads into the dining room. The living room has 8 ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I would ...
Outlet sparked all electric stopped working	6/23/2007
Q: There was a outlet that sparked in my living room and then all the outlets stopped working along ... A: If you were not doing something at the outlet that sparked, I would suggest that is where the ...
Changing the cord on my dryer	6/22/2007
Q: I have a dryer that has three prongs, but the house I move into has a plug for a four prong dryer. ... A: I think if you follow the green wire in the machine, it will come to a splice point, from which it ...
salt water dock wiring	6/19/2007
Q: I am having my dock wired by an electrician who needs to go 550 ft from my house to end of dock for ... A: Well, common logic would suggest this to be true. But, I am not knowledgeable in this matter, so I ...
Replaced Fixture - Light won't turn off - 1963 house - 2 switches	6/18/2007
Q: switches, and now the light won't turn off. Can you tell me how to fix this? also, have wiring ... A: let me guess, you didn't just take down the old light .. open up the splices in the box as well? ...
Intermittent Electrical problem.	6/12/2007
Q: I live in an older small home (built in the mid 1960s) and lately I'm having this strange problem ... A: You have created a problem. If there is no ground, you should not use grounded receptacles. Remove ...
Voltage Dropout switch	6/6/2007
Q: We have a neighborhood pool with two pumps and motors. When the power goes out both pumps try to ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Do both ...
hot floor spot	6/5/2007
Q: In the master bathroom, between the shower and the cabinet with twin sinks, there is a warm spot on ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Well, it ...
Power, correct wiring... no light	6/4/2007
Q: I am rather stumped and not sure what is happening. I have wired plenty lighting features before, ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Replacing Electric Baseboard Thermostat	6/2/2007
Q: I'm in the process of remodeling our kitchen and want to replace the 30+ year old electric baseboard ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
open ground	5/29/2007
Q: My name is Kristin. I have a question, I know NOTHING about electricity and I have just moved into ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * All the ...
Adding Breakers/outlets	5/27/2007
Q: I need to add two new outlets each on their own 20 amp breaker to accomodate a kiln designed to run ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
electric	5/25/2007
Q: I have a single pole switch with two wires in the box .One is the feed and the other is 14-2 to the ... A: at switch- black to black and switch red to other switch terminal white to ...
New Home electrical issues	5/24/2007
Q: I just purchased a new custom home. During the inspection it was noted that some connections were ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Recessed ...
philadelphia licence	5/23/2007
Q: I finished an electrical course with CHI Institute in Southampton, PA. How can i obtain a license ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You don't ...
multi gang switches	5/21/2007
Q: I would like to know can I put 3 diffrent phases inside a 3 gang lighting switch?is there any ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You have ...
Tripping a breaker	5/15/2007
Q: I've got a real stumper. One of my tenants kept complaining every time she turned on her oven/stove, ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
motion sensor	5/13/2007
Q: Ok, this is probably going to be an easy answer, but I'm a retard when it comes to messing with ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Wiring 3 switches	5/9/2007
Q: I am installing a wall light and a fan light combo in my basement bathroom. I want all 3 switches to ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
pulling wires	5/8/2007
Q: I will be pulling 4 - 2/0 copper wires in a 2" pvc conduit which will be onehead in two buildings ... A: NOPE what I said was that the first pull should probably be from the first LB [the one over the ...
j box sizing	5/7/2007
Q: yes have 1 4in, conduit entering a box and on other side have 1 2 in., 1 1/14,1 1in..I think ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Problem with three-way switch controls two outlets	5/6/2007
Q: if one is mis-wired, the whole circuit doesn't work. In this circuit, we have two duplex outlets ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
whole house fans-do I need a dedicated line?	5/5/2007
Q: I am installing a whole house fan which has a 4 amp motor, and a uses 480 watts. I currently have ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
pulling wires	5/4/2007
Q: I will be pulling 4 - 2/0 copper wires in a 2" pvc conduit which will be onehead in two buildings ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Light Switch problem	5/3/2007
Q: I had a renter who replaced a light switch to match paint (almond to White). They replaced it with ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * The hot ...
Neutral and ground blocks in panel	5/2/2007
Q: I noticed that both the neutral (white) and ground (bare) wires are connected to the same block in ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * It is ...
V230/208 conversion to 115v	4/30/2007
Q: I have 2 wall unit air conditioners (V230/208, Amps 8.2/8.4) in a duplex that I own. I am wanting ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Cut Wire	4/29/2007
Q: My husband and I have a house in Sea Isle City. This weekend, we were getting ready to have new ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
add a second light fixture	4/27/2007
Q: I am remodeling a bathroom with one light over the vanity. I want to use 2 lights instead, one on ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
AFCI	4/25/2007
Q: Ok, Here's my problem. All is good with the arc fault except when my inspector came to do a final he ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * The ...
exhaust fan	4/24/2007
Q: I just replaced a century type cp motor on a pool room exhaust fan and it runs backwards. Appears ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I suggest ...
short circuit?	4/23/2007
Q: I have two breakers that are somehow interfeering with each other - both will remain on if the other ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You could ...
Wiring electric baseboard	4/20/2007
Q: I am converting my detached garage to an office. It is 12 x 16 feet and well insulated. My main box ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Since you ...
Upgrade Service from 100 to 150 or 200?	4/18/2007
Q: I'm interested in upgrading my electrical service from 100 amps to 200 amps and am in the process of ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Unless you ...
Light bulbs burning out b4 their time	4/17/2007
Q: I manage a 16 unit apartment building and one of the tenants has recently complained that light ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * An open ...
Installing ceiling fan with light kit and remote	4/15/2007
Q: I am installing a ceiling fan with a light kit and a remote control on two switches. The first ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Did you ...
half of a curcuit is out	4/14/2007
Q: My roommate who lives in my guest bedroom came home from work last night to find that the ceiling ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Moved dryer from US to South America	4/13/2007
Q: .. You say you like stuff that stumps other people.. well here's one that's got my electrician ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * 110 volts ...
Control light/fan from 2 locations	4/12/2007
Q: I had a light in my house that was being controlled by two 3-way switches. I replaced the light with ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I hope you ...
main breaker	4/11/2007
Q: I want to install an arc fault circuit breaker. I tried to turn off the main circuit breaker but it ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * The main ...
electrical problem	4/8/2007
Q: I'm stumped! Four days ago, I connected a Rug Doctor cord to my bathroom outlet. Ten seconds later, ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Don't know ...
Ceiling Lights & Electrical Outlets Suddenly Not Working	4/6/2007
Q: A few days ago I noticed the lights weren't working on the living room ceiling light. The fan is ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Sounds ...
Home wiring using something like flex pc board	4/4/2007
Q: I do not have a plug in the middle of basement carpeted room. I want something that carries 115v for ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Flat ...
house wire	4/3/2007
Q: I have 2 old wires each connected to a 30amp breaker each was hooked up to an double oven or a stove ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
junction box	4/2/2007
Q: I need to buy a toner to locate my junction box; someone told me they cost $l50, yet I see them ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * The unit I ...
220 SINGLE PHASE FROM THREE PHASE POWER	3/30/2007
Q: I HAVE A STEREO FROM GERMANY THAT DOESNT HAVE THE SWITCH ON THE BACK FOR 110 IN US AND 220 ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Fan switch problems	3/28/2007
Q: Ok, hope its not too long, but its complicated (to me anyway). I can't operate my middle room ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * My guess ...
How to run wire from an outlet to new fixture	3/27/2007
Q: What's the best way to add a new light fixture to the existing switch by out attic access (I only ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
wiring problem	3/25/2007
Q: I have a dead outlet in my house. It went dead suddenly. There are also a coulpe of lights on this ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Smoke Detectors	3/22/2007
Q: Mr. Wilber, I just moved into an 18 year old home and need to replace the smoke detectors. When I ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Installing multiple baseboards off one thermostat	3/19/2007
Q: Help needed!!! Thanks in advance. Background - 3 baseboard heaters (2) 6.1amp 1500 Watt (1) 4.1amp ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
Push button switch	3/15/2007
Q: What is the difference between normally open or normally closed? I need to push the button to make ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Normally ...
New house pops gfci's	3/14/2007
Q: By "other leg" are your referring to the other 110 circuit in the 220 CB Box? By looking at the ... A: I was speaking of the other 110 side of the panel. There may be something wrong with the way it is ...
subpanel	3/13/2007
Q: I currently have a 200 amp Murray panel in my home. I need to add a subpanel due to most of the ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Panel type ...
New house pops gfci's	3/12/2007
Q: My new house has four GFCI's located in 3 separate rooms and wired into the same circuit. The ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I take it ...
light bulbs fall apart in recessed fixtures	3/10/2007
Q: my basement has 5 recessed light fixtures in the ceiling, which operate off one wall switch. Almost ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You are ...
ceiling light	3/9/2007
Q: I took down a lighted fan to replace with typical ceiling light. After hooking up wires(two black ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
old baseboard heater wiring...	3/8/2007
Q: I'm replacing my baseboard heaters and wiring in one bedroom. I have done plenty of new work on ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * ...
Bathroom Fan	3/6/2007
Q: Hey, I'm remodeling my bathroom and i have added a new bathroom fan, there was no fan before. i just ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
Wiring a replacement oven broiler element	3/4/2007
Q: I am attempting to replace the broiler element in my built in oven. In removing the old element I ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Ya got me ...
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: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * When I was ...
Two 3 way switches and an outlet	3/2/2007
Q: Ok I want to have the power run into the 1st 3-way (dimmer) switch on a 14/2 and then up to the ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
Honeywell Thermostat	2/27/2007
Q: I have installed three new Honeywell digital thermostats. I think that I wired them correctly as ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * It is ...
Wiring	2/26/2007
Q: I recently installed a bathroom light/fan all in one. There was previously a light already in the ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You have a ...
Main Braker Problem	2/24/2007
Q: I run a (70 year old) church campground, we have a 200 amp main breaker box.. Last year we changed ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * The reason ...
lots of wires	2/23/2007
Q: I recently bought a house. when i moved in i noticed in the kitchen there was a panel of 4 light ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Sounds ...
outlet placement with regard to hot water baseboard heating	2/22/2007
Q: What is the appropriate distance to place electric outlets with regard to hot water baseboard ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * There is ...
commercial wiring	2/21/2007
Q: Think I have the answer, but anyway. I want to put a 120V SP switch in the same 2 gang box with a ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * According ...
losing half of circuits-no breakers tripped	2/20/2007
Q: Yes. we called the power company early on because I noticed an arc burn behind one of the incoming ... A: As I indicated initially, your original symptoms suggest a partially or completely open neutral. ...
losing half of circuits-no breakers tripped	2/19/2007
Q: After several rounds of power surges where some lights dimmed and others went bright, which also ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Neutral? ...
no power	2/17/2007
Q: we have a sun room off the back of the house and everything was fine until power went out to the ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * There is ...
Wiring	2/15/2007
Q: I currently have a 4 wire cooktop and I purchased a 3 wire cooktop. The new cooktop is a plug in ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * The NEC ...
New Home	2/14/2007
Q: We are getting a new mobile home and need a new pole and loop for service. We have gotten some ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
outlet box	2/13/2007
Q: I would like to take out my old exhaust hood over my range and replace it with a microwave oven. I ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
Condensation in Main Panel	2/12/2007
Q: I will tryto describe to you the situation. House is a 2,500s.f. ranch, with full basement, 1.5 yr ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
ARC Fault Breaker Trips	2/6/2007
Q: I've lived in my home for 4 years no issues - came home today and although earlier in the evening we ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
Aluminum Wiring	2/5/2007
Q: I have a home that was constructed in 1955 that has Aluminum wiring. I wanted to install a bathroom ... A: I have no experience of either the AMP method nor the AlumiConn product. I can have no opinion. As, ...
Aluminum Wiring	2/4/2007
Q: I have a home that was constructed in 1955 that has Aluminum wiring. I wanted to install a bathroom ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
Dry wall cut out too big for switch plate cover	2/2/2007
Q: we had a shady electrician who has dropped off the planet install a light switch in our home. We ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I suggest ...
Home Additions	2/1/2007
Q: What is the min. size conductor needed for 200 amp service and what size conduit should I use? Does ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
Electrical hgouse wiring problem	1/31/2007
Q: Some of my electrical lines don't work. The only one that works is the one near the circuit breaker. ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You have ...
difference between 110 volt 120 volt	1/30/2007
Q: what is the difference between 110 volt plug and 120 volt appliances. I am interested in a 120 volt ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * For ...
3 wire ballasts	1/28/2007
Q: i am changing a ballast in a single bulb 8 foot fixture the ballast only has 3 wires black white red ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
Wire size.	1/27/2007
Q: Is it possible to install or use to large a gauge wire for a load? I know too small is not good. Is ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
3 phase power requirements	1/26/2007
Q: I am running some circuitry for two three phase 240 volt motors, both 3 phase. I have 3/4" conduit ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
Wall heater	1/25/2007
Q: I have a 2000 watt 240 volt wall heater that I will be puting on a 20 amp 2 pole circuit breaker. ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You won't ...
under caninet lights	1/23/2007
Q: I am installing some under cabinet lights in a built in bookshelf. here is the materials I am ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * First, you ...
2 switch, 3 lights?	1/20/2007
Q: Good evening Robert, I just came across your website & have a cedar homes business in central PA. ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
4way wiring in family room	1/19/2007
Q: You are correct. In re-checking and switching around wires today, I found that the middle 4way ... A: Good for you! If you had more experience you would have realized to look for it yourself. [All I did ...
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: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
generator	1/15/2007
Q: During a power outage, if I shut off the main breaker, can I plug a generator into any outlet to ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
Baseboard Heater Thermostat	1/13/2007
Q: I have two baseboard heaters running on one Honeywell thermostat (programmable) (RLV430A) . I have ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * 1] I can't ...
European Voltage	1/11/2007
Q: Wilber : I recently purchased a front porch light fixture made in Italy. After installation, my ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Yes. Your ...
outlet noise	1/10/2007
Q: Sorry, I should have told you it was an inside wall with no outlet on the opposite wall. What action ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Have you ...
Wiring a switch/outlet combo	1/7/2007
Q: I live in an older house (built 1959) and the bathroom has no electrical outlets. There is a light ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You are ...
Hot/Ground Reversed	1/6/2007
Q: Last night, several receptacles went out in my home cutting off power to several appliances. I ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I can't ...
100 amp to 200 amp service	1/3/2007
Q: Robert, Im looking to upgrade my current 100 amp service to 200 amp service. what are my hardware ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * so, if you ...
Ampacity of Disconnect v. Main Panel CB	1/1/2007
Q: MyThe evaporator (fan coil) unit for my heat pump system includes a "supplemental" 8KW electric ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Fusible ...
Doorbell Problem	12/31/2006
Q: The solenoid in the doorbell chime continually stays energized (making a humming noise). I thought ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * The only ...
wiring	12/29/2006
Q: We are building a new house and our electrican came in and did all the new wiring... he drilled ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Absotively ...
Transition between interior and exterior	12/27/2006
Q: I'm in the process of pulling power from a subpanel in the garage to the side of the house where we ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
Candle Lights with timers	12/26/2006
Q: There is no intentional interruption of the circuit. I have checked the circuit panel for any ... A: Fascinating. I can't imagine what could cause such behavior. Contact the manufacturer. Electronic or ...
flickering lights	12/26/2006
Q: I recently purchase a house, when I did the initial inspection I did not notice this problem. When ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Just found ...
Candle Lights with timers	12/25/2006
Q: We have about A dozen of the candles with timers that we put up for the Christmas Holiday. Ten are ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Without ...
blown light bulbs	12/24/2006
Q: My Light bulbs dont last. I can install new bulbs and have blown bulbs in a couple of days. What ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Why do ...
Safety in the home.	12/23/2006
Q: How can I let the nation know of a possible very dangerous situation? When asked to check two faulty ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * The danger ...
GFCI Wiring	12/20/2006
Q: I am installing an outdoor GFCI outlet at the base of the lamp post. Is there a GFCI outlet on the ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Never seen ...
Wire repair	12/19/2006
Q: I just had a new cable and phone line put into my home. The installer nicked a romex wire in the ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Well, I'm ...
3 way wiring with multiple fixtures	12/18/2006
Q: I am just curious and want to be sure. I understand to use 4 wire for wiring this type of setup. Is ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * What you ...
water heater	12/17/2006
Q: good morning robert yesterday i went to home depot and purchased a 40 gal.3500 watt 240 volt ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Well, the ...
220 shop wiring	12/15/2006
Q: I have a 220V dust collector puls a table saw and band saw that can be switched to 220. I have ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
Open hot side in outdoor outlet	12/12/2006
Q: I am stuck on this I have an outdoor outlet that has the hot side open,the house is 5 years old and ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 610-299-0452 ...
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: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 610-299-0452 ...
220vac circuit	12/8/2006
Q: When calculating the current through each leg of a 220VAC circuit that is wired to a devise (say a ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Run this ...
Installing a outside outlet	12/7/2006
Q: I am wanting to install a outside outlet to plug my Christmas lights in. I have a plug in my sunroom ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
single pole switch wiring to light	12/5/2006
Q: Florescent fixture when hooked to power lights up but when switch is flipped to on circuit blows. ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE SAFETY ...
grounding short	12/4/2006
Q: I get shocked everytime I use my dryer if I am touching the wash machine and have wet clothes in my ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
Wiring a Bath Fan Switch	12/1/2006
Q: I installed a bath exhaust fan (no light/no heater) in my bathroom and now I need to wire it up. I ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * If there ...
Multiple single pole switches in one gang box controlling multiple lights and an outdoor outlet	11/30/2006
Q: Master Bob, I need to wire three single pole switches in one boc with one incomming electrical feed ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
220V Infrared Heaters burned out instantly	11/29/2006
Q: What a wonderful thing you are doing. Must eat up a lot of your free time though. Just thought I ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Are these ...
220V Infrared Heaters burned out instantly	11/28/2006
Q: I have a couple of infrared heaters from Sweden rated 1000W at 230V 50Hz. I installed a 220V ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * The ...
Outdoor Lamp Posts	11/27/2006
Q: I have three outdoor lamp posts. Two on either side of my horseshoe driveway and one by my steps to ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Your drive ...
ceiling fan	11/26/2006
Q: I have a light I took down from my ceoling unfortunatley I missed what all the wires where conneted. ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Please ...
Wiring a Chandelier	11/23/2006
Q: "Hello, In our dining room we have two recessed cans. I was told by a buddy he has seen on multiple ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I didn't ...
T8 Florecent Light problem	11/22/2006
Q: Robert. I got a new 96" T8 fixture that takes 4 48" T8 lights and 4 new lights. I Installed the ... A: Weird Are the sockets in the right places? Proper voltage input? I would contact the fixture ...
220V Wiring	11/20/2006
Q: I have 220V 30Amp prewired in the wall behind the clothes dryer (consisting of 1 ground, 1 white & 1 ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Sounds ...
Electrical	11/18/2006
Q: "The lights on one circuit in my house occasionally flickers and goes out. It only effects the ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * The only ...
gfi won't reset.	11/17/2006
Q: Robert, I've recently renovated my home. I had wired the upstairs bathroom in with one of the ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * There is ...
some lights out	11/15/2006
Q: I was changing a lightbulb and a piece of metal fell in the socket. I tried to get it out and little ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You most ...
BREAKER NEVER TRIPPED	11/14/2006
Q: MY QUESTION INVOLVES HOUSEHOLD WIRING. THE OUTLETS IN OUR LIVING ROOM STOPPED WORKING WHEN OUR ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * The only ...
Lights dim or flicker	11/12/2006
Q: We recently had a power outage, and ever since then my lights dim or flicker, an sometimes get ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Bad ...
Garage wiring	11/9/2006
Q: I am adding electric to a detached garage. When I began my work, I was told that unless I was adding ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Oops! That ...
breaker panel and outlet box wiring	11/7/2006
Q: When homeruns or wires with sheathing are entered into a panel or outlet box, how much of the ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Length of ...
fan wiring	11/6/2006
Q: I wired electric for a fan with a light. 2 seperate switches 12-2 wire in black wire with 2 ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Phantom ...
I think I nailed into a wire	11/4/2006
Q: Yesterday I replace some base board of the floor in my dining room. Last night when we got home I ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Baseboard ...
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: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I got a ...
wiring a plug	11/1/2006
Q: I purchased a new wall oven I was told it had to be wired on a plug not hard wired How do i wire it ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE ...
GFCI question for beginner	10/31/2006
Q: I am a little confused here and was hoping you can provide some insight. Ive been researching all ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * read more ...
single vs double pole circuit	10/29/2006
Q: I have a Singer electric 240 volt fan-forced heater on a 20 amp double pole breaker. I want to ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You got it ...
Home Lighting	10/28/2006
Q: Mr. Wilbur, I have an overhead incandescent light fixture with two bulb sockets. I install both ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Quality ...
Adding a basement sub-panel	10/25/2006
Q: Good morning, My wife and I are finishing our basement. We have a 200 amp main panel in our ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE ...
Voltage variation	10/23/2006
Q: 5 yr old wall outlet tests 120v. When I plug in a (test) Fan the voltage drops to Zero. When I ... A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Getting ...
recessed lights	10/22/2006
Q: how many ic remodel can lights can i put on one switch 120v 75 watt max bulb ic rated A: - * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * How many ...
400 amp service	10/21/2006
Q: I was looking in a NEC book the other day about Parallel main Entrance cable. It said That a 400 Amp ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * What you are ...
cieling fan wiring	10/18/2006
Q: I am confused on the wiring for a cieling fan. In the cieling I have a red, white,black and bare ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Read the ...
220 line for a welder	10/16/2006
Q: i have an old screw in type fuse panel....i want to run a subpanel off of that just for my welder. ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * It is not ...
Electrical Drain	10/14/2006
Q: Robert; I have just wired my basement with Romex 14/2 with approximately 14 outlets and a couple of ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * First things ...
Electrical Sub-Panel	10/12/2006
Q: I have a old Federal Pacific 100 amp panel. I have a double 100 amp breaker. The total amp readings ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Sub-panel? ...
switched outlet voltage	10/11/2006
Q: Home Inspector here. Getting into homes with switched outlets mainly in newer construction. Bottom ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * On a ...
Wiring a motion sensing 3-way wall switch	10/9/2006
Q: I have a Cooper (#6107) Motion Sensing 3-way Wall switch. The switch has one green, one brown, one ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Where do the ...
wires	10/8/2006
Q: I currently have a 100 amp service in my home. I have just built a 30x30x10 garage out back and will ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * New 200 amp ...
Lights don't work	10/7/2006
Q: I have three recessed light fixtures on one circuit. One stopped working, then a few weeks ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Three lights ...
knob and tube wiring	10/5/2006
Q: Robert I have an oler home in central Pa. Most of the wiring has been upgraded and a new 200 amp ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Knob and ...
Low Voltage house home system	10/4/2006
Q: I have a large house (over 50 yeras old) with low voltage system based on "touchplate" dimmers and ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Gee, Ed ...
Faulty Wiring Causing no "trip" in breakers	10/3/2006
Q: I am having a problem where many different lights and outlets will flicker and sometimes go out then ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * 1] Do you ...
GFCI wiring in a 2-wire house	9/30/2006
Q: 1. I have a 2-wire house (1937) in Minnesota. 2. I have an outlet in the liv. room on an outside ... A: More information please Are the 2 rubber/cloth conductors in a common cable covering? Is the ...
circuit breaker	9/29/2006
Q: I am the original owner of a 29 yr old house which came with a GE panel wired with central air.I ... A: Let me guess The 50 amp breaker on the 10 wire goes to the AC unit Try a 40 amp breaker and tell the ...
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: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Water heater ...
Light switch not working....	9/22/2006
Q: First off, thank you for any assistance you can provide. In my living room there are two electrical ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I changed my ...
220v heater swap out	9/21/2006
Q: Probably a stupid question, but... I'm in the process of swapping out some seriously old ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
GFCI and/or hot/neutral reversal	9/20/2006
Q: Here's my situation: I built a workshop in my backyard- it has a subpanel that is fed from a 50 amp ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You just ...
Recess lighting and 220V wiring	9/19/2006
Q: A few questions about my wiring project for my finished basement. Your answers will be appreciated. ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
affixing receptacle boxes in brick walls	9/17/2006
Q: We are trying to install light and receptacle in our brick wall and are stumped at how to affix the ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * It is common ...
Wiring GFI w/ 3-line elec cable	9/16/2006
Q: I have an outlet in the laundry room that I would like to instl a GFI. The present outlet is 15 amp ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * To replace a ...
Installing a new GFCI Outlet in exisying bathroom and kitchen	9/14/2006
Q: I would like to install GFCI outlets in existing bathrooms and kitchen. Can I replace an existing ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * GFCI ...
hot water heater and mild shocks	9/13/2006
Q: Recently, we had a bad thunderstorm and lightening struck very close to our house. After that, one ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Why did you ...
a long run of outdoor wire	9/12/2006
Q: We're building a house and living in a little trailer (9x17). The house is way behind schedule so ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * 1500 watts ...
Changing a ballast	9/11/2006
Q: I bought a ballast to convert a light fixture from 220 to 110. It says it's for 4 lamps F25t12. The ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You want to ...
electric baseboard	9/8/2006
Q: I am installing electric baseboard heat in an upstairs apartment and I am running the wires through ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Second ...
Fan switch wiring	9/6/2006
Q: oops i forgot to mention.. (i dunno if it matters or not) but the existing switch for the original ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * There is no ...
Fan switch wiring	9/5/2006
Q: ok.. ill try to keep this short and simple.. I have existing light im taking down and installing 2 ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
electrical	9/4/2006
Q: underground wiring how deep does it have to be? A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * How deep ...
new ceiling fan installation	9/2/2006
Q: Just installed a hunter ceiling fan. At first it didn't work at all. I re-did the entire wiring ... A: * Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Voltage ...
Light switches should be down when off	9/1/2006
Q: My foyer light has two switches to turn it on or off. One is just inside the front door is one is ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You want ...
Shunt breaker	8/31/2006
Q: Good morning, I am interested in knowing what a "shunt breaker" is and how it is wired in. I'm told ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
light switch wiring	8/30/2006
Q: I've installed a light switch, but the breaker trips when I turn on the switch - any ideas? Thanks ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Insufficient ...
220volt Dryer wont run	8/27/2006
Q: Good Afternoon, And thank you first off - Brand new dryer - 3wire 4prong in the wall and for the ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You haven't ...
THE LIGHT SWITCH IS HOT BUT NO LIGHTS	8/26/2006
Q: I replaced a light switch because the old one was not staying on, you had to fiddle with it. (The ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You replaced a ...
Diming lights when A/C comes on	8/25/2006
Q: My home is less than 1 year old, we have had a problem with diming lights when the Lennon ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * There was no ...
outdoor low voltage lighting; indoor timer?	8/23/2006
Q: We moved into this house in 2002 and replaced all the exterior walkway lighting had some help from ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * As you ...
light fixture / switch problem	8/22/2006
Q: My house was built in 1962. I have a ceiling light in my hall that I want to replace. My problem is ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * You have a ...
lighted wall switches	8/20/2006
Q: replacing a standard wass light switch with an illuminated switch . the new switch has two screw ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
ADDING PENDANT LIGHTS BY CONNECTING TO EXCISTING CEILING LIGHT FIXTURE	8/19/2006
Q: IS IT POSSIBLE OR EVEN LEGAL TO CONNECT SURFACE WIRING FROM EXCISTING CEILING LIGHT, OVER TO PENDANT ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Man has walked ...
lights not working	8/18/2006
Q: several lights have stopped working in my house yet the fuse hasn't blown and the light bulbs are ... A: You said several lights have stopped working in your house, yet the fuse hasn't blown and the light ...
electric out to part of one circuit	8/16/2006
Q: about a week ago when i turned on a television in the upstairs of my house the power to the upstairs ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE SAFETY ...
Fuse box	8/14/2006
Q: I recently inherited and old farm house from my dad wired with a fuse box. The box says 60 amps on ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
service cord voltage rating	8/13/2006
Q: I do not understand the voltage rating on service cords. They are rated at 300v and 600v. Is this ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
replacing an outlet	8/12/2006
Q: Ok I just got a dryer which needs a 3 wire outlet, but the outlet in my wall is a 4 wire outlet. Is ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
follow-up ceiling fan wiring	8/9/2006
Q: to clarify my previous question- the switch is in a 3 gang box, the switch that runs to the ceiling ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE SAFETY ...
Generator to Compressor	8/6/2006
Q: Bob, I'm trying to put together a cord to run my compressor off of my generator. From my searching, ... A: 20 amp 240 volt needs no neutral, only two hots and a ground. Therefor, there is no need to bring ...
electrical wiring	8/5/2006
Q: I am planning on installing a wall mount air conditioner in my florida room and the voltage required ... A: 208 isn't the same thing, but you have the idea. Water heater was 30 amp breaker probably, 10 gauge ...
house wiring	8/4/2006
Q: I have 4 outlets in home office & 2 in master bedroom that are out. I have checked the breakers ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE SAFETY ...
temporary electric pole	8/3/2006
Q: I need to install a temporary pole to power a well until the house is built. Have bought all (I ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE SAFETY ...
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: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * (LIFE SAFETY ...
Above Ground Pool Grounding	8/1/2006
Q: Robert: I recently helped my sone install some wiring for his above ground pool. All is working OK. ... A: Contact the local "authority having jurisdiction" Pool bonding and equipment grounding is a critical ...
Panel redo	7/31/2006
Q: I have a panel upgrade from fuses to circuit breakers when I redid this I could not find a panel ... A: Splices in the panel with wirenuts are acceptable provided there is enough wire to make a reasonable ...
Trying to make a conversion cable.	7/28/2006
Q: I recently purchased a Bosch Axxis+ washing machine for a great deal. My problem is that I have a ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * The "L" shaped ...
hot tubs	7/25/2006
Q: Ok well I chose your profile because I'm originally from Penn. Trying to get a handle on the code ... A: NMWU is a Canadian approved material not applied in the US. It is apparently rated for direct burial ...
electrical outlets	7/21/2006
Q: I own a 30+ home and I want to replace my vent-a-hood with a overhead microwave when taking the hood ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Older kitchen ...
running a 220 line	7/17/2006
Q: Robert, sorry you've dealt with ungrateful people. I too volunteer my time and patience (working ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Kathleen Do ...
Licensing	7/13/2006
Q: I have a friend he's a great electrician, the only problem is he went to school in Mexico, and i ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * If your friend ...
Lighting fixture wiring problem	7/12/2006
Q: I really hope you can help me and I truly appreciate your advise! I wil try to give as much detail ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Didn't trip ...
single phase 240 Volt	7/11/2006
Q: Robert my question is. A single family home that is 240Volts, one leg is 120v and the other leg is ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Center-tap ...
Aluminum wire	7/6/2006
Q: My home was built in 1969 and recently the lights have been flickering quite a bit and with larger ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
double pole switch wiring	7/5/2006
Q: I need to replace a single pole switch that controls a fan and light with a double pole switch that ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
loss of power	7/4/2006
Q: I live in a double wide modular home built in 2003. Lost all power in a cicuit that services my ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
Replace Double Lugging with twin breakers	6/30/2006
Q: Can you help me out? We need to replace 2 breakers in the breaker box with twin breakers because ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
30A breaker instead of 15A breaker	6/29/2006
Q: I wanna install a extra stove in my home, and when i was trying to install this i saw their is no ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
loss of power	6/28/2006
Q: I hope you can help because I have done everything I can think of and have called all of the ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
wrong wiring between lights	6/27/2006
Q: I try to explain the best I can the problem.In the basement of my house we have instaled panel ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
Aluminum wiring - outlet works intermitenly	6/26/2006
Q: Robert, I live in the townhome built in the 70's and it has aluminum wiring. Recently, electrical ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
Floor Lamp	6/21/2006
Q: I have an old floor lamp that my wife likes. Around where the switch is, just below the bulb, it ... A: There are two possibilities: This is normal, and you never noticed it before, or this is not ...
plug wires hot side burning out	6/20/2006
Q: recently i had a washer cord where the black hot side melted...scorced prong and melted the plug on ... A: Mechanical connections fail. Heat gets created across loose connection. The higher the load, the ...
Power loss in outlets of old home	6/14/2006
Q: BACKGROUND: My house is 110 yrs old; I can't date the wiring at all, because it seems to have been ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
pool bonding	6/13/2006
Q: I am instaling a inground 18x36 vinyl lined polymer walled pool. Have most of electrical wired but ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Swimming pool ...
romex wiring	6/12/2006
Q: I live in Monroe County Pennsylvania My house is wired with romex. My neighbor says taht I should ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Non-metallic ...
End-of-run switch controlling two fixtures	6/10/2006
Q: I found out how to properly wire a single fixture that is controlled by an end-of-run light switch, ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
Phone jacks	6/8/2006
Q: I just moved in to a new apartment and my land lord is a bum. I have wires running in my house to ... A: One phone pair is most commonly run on the green and red pair, second pair is usually yellow and ...
Flickering Lights	6/8/2006
Q: My house lights flicker. I also have a problem with getting a shock when i touch the shower handle. ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Flickering ...
Bathroom Fan Wiring	6/6/2006
Q: I've been getting a bit of conflicting advice on this one, so I'm seeking another opinion. I'm ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
Odd Voltage Reading	6/3/2006
Q: Mr. Wilber, Nothing worked when plugged into a receptacle in our bedroom. I disconnected the ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * A receptacle ...
remote control ceiling fan	6/1/2006
Q: Here is a real stumper, hope you can help. I recently changed my bedroom ceiling fan to a remote ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Remote control ...
Electrical Wiring	5/31/2006
Q: I will look into the access panels. Another question. When the house was built I had a 220V 20 ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * A splice is ...
Room Inside of a Room	5/30/2006
Q: I have a finished room into which I am building a high-end audio listening room. The dimensions ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Dealing with ...
Low voltage on one receptacle	5/29/2006
Q: I have been using this same receptacle since we built our house 19 years ago, however yesterday one ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
GFCI Protection	5/28/2006
Q: Mr. Wilbur, I've done a good bit of wiring over the years but this one has me stumped. A friend is ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Read more ...
Electrical damage to transformer	5/27/2006
Q: Subject Electrical damage to invisible fence installation Question What are the electricians using ... A: Sorry, this is outside my area, but a quick search turned up the following link for a "standard" ...
Problem on part of a cicuit & some voltage on neutral	5/26/2006
Q: Robert, (My first time to this website.) A have a fair amount of electrical experience but am ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Electrical ...
new wall oven	5/25/2006
Q: I'm remodeling my kitchen and just received my new wall oven. looking at the wiring I saw that it ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
Wiring to accommodate tankless water heaters	5/23/2006
Q: New home with two (2) 28K tankless water heaters(Seisco). Each has 4 elements and 7000w. Our house ... A: Sorry, you are out of luck a 28 kw load is over 100 amps you are talking over 200 amp demand from ...
reversed wiring problem	5/22/2006
Q: Boy, I feel dumb. I was just trying to replace the 3-prong plug on my Champion Juicer and as careful ... A: Sorry, I don't have a clue what the battery size thingie is, capacitor, coil, gremlin motel ... ...
single pole light switch	5/19/2006
Q: I replaced a single pole light switch. When the switch is off the tester still has a faint glow at ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Curious ...
Intermittent light failure of new halogen ceiling fixture	5/18/2006
Q: We just replaced an old incandescent ceiling fixture in the kitchen of our 1970s-vintage house ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I am not ...
Transient Voltage Surge Suppressor	5/17/2006
Q: Can I install a three phase Transient Voltage Surge Suppressor in single phase home by using two of ... A: Yes and no ... A three phase suppressor is simply multiple suppressors connected internally, so yes ...
Wiring Ceiling Fan	5/15/2006
Q: I'm installing a ceiling fan and need some help with the wiring. The fan has a light kit and remote ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Installing a ...
Gate opener-120 vs 240	5/14/2006
Q: I plan to install a gate opener at my house. The prior owner ran aproximately 400' of 10ga stranded ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * At the ...
Faulty light switch?	5/13/2006
Q: Robert, I installed a new 4-light vanity wall fixture in my bathroom recently. It is fed by a ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * I agree with ...
UF cable	5/12/2006
Q: Is there an easy way of stripping Direct Burial (UF) cable? A: Unfortunately not. Always comes down to a sharp knife and caution. Fortunately, it isn't necessary ...
electrical wires	5/11/2006
Q: I have purchase a new ceiling light but when I removed the old one I realised that the wires had ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * The wires are ...
Switched outlet	5/10/2006
Q: We are installing a new switch and outlet in the kitchen. The garbage disposal was plugged into an ... A: The reason for the receptacle is to facilitate replacement of the disposal when it fails. The switch ...
110v motorhome GFI outlet	5/9/2006
Q: I have a 110v 20 amp gfi outlet on my motorhome that I use to supply power to a towed trailer while ... A: I have a 110v 20 amp gfi outlet on my motorhome that I use to supply power to a towed trailer while ...
circuit testor	5/8/2006
Q: My Home Wiring Simplified book says regarding those little testors with the neon light that if you ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Good fuse? Why ...
recessed lighting	5/7/2006
Q: i have just had installed 6 reccesed lights in my kitchen along with a dimmer switch and 2 lights ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * The key here ...
Circuit breaker clamp	5/6/2006
Q: Nearly all of the single pole breakers in my panel box are tandem units as installed in my new house ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * It is called a ...
Subpanel Wiring	5/5/2006
Q: Im putting in a 60 amp subpanel and for wire im running 3-#8, copper, THHN/THWN insulation and a #10 ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * 8s are too ...
Ground Wiring	5/4/2006
Q: On a ceiling light fixture, what is the purpose of the ground wire? Is it to protect somebody from ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * What is the ...
Multiple tripping breakers	5/3/2006
Q: I just installed a new 60 amp hot tub. A few weeks after the install the owner started having ... A: Is it a new 60 amp breaker? What is the location of the breakers that trip? Is it always the same ...
GFCI trips and cannot be reset	5/3/2006
Q: I have a gfci outlet in my kitchen. A garbage disposal is on the same circuit. Worked well for 10 ... A: Something is doing something. Sounds like a ground fault to me. Turn off power, pull out all devices ...
Sparking when plugging in 220 dryer	5/2/2006
Q: Yes, the blue is actually green. I don't quite understand the rest. What is the dryer block & wher ... A: The frame is the shell of the dryer, the whole box where you changed the cord ends is the terminal ...
wiring a ceiling light	5/2/2006
Q: I am replacing a flourescent ceiling light fixture with a two-bulb, incandescent fixture. It should ... A: I take it the switch worked ok and controlled the fluorescent light properly. Make sure you get a ...
Sparking when plugging in 220 dryer	5/1/2006
Q: I moved into an older home & had to convert my dryer from 3 prong to 4 prong. I connected the 4 ... A: Sure the "blue" wasn't green? Standard connection would be green to frame. Make sure to eliminate ...
Extending outside outlet	5/1/2006
Q: I have an outside recepticle, flush in the outside wall, with a GFI recepticle ahead of it and a arc ... A: If you plug a regular extension cord into the GFI outlet and run it out to the tree, does it still ...
extension cords	4/26/2006
Q: Please also answer my first question. About my second question, I don't understand what you wrote. ... A: Wire size or gauge is related to current 14 gauge is good for 15 amps 16 gauge, I think for 12 amp ...
gfci breaker	4/25/2006
Q: I replaced a regular breker with a gfci breaker for my pool equipment. It worked fine until I turned ... A: Your pool and garage wiring share the neutral GFI reads the energized garage breaker load on the ...
electrical	4/24/2006
Q: Light bulbs burn out after only 2 or 3 days. What could be the problem? Thanks A: 1] High utility voltage envelope [125-135 volt] with low rated lamp [115 volt] 2] overvoltage - ...
Electrical Wiring	4/23/2006
Q: We have wired a new chandelier in the dining room. When we turn the circuitbreaker on to send power ... A: Was there previously a light controlled by the dimmer at THAT location? ...did you take down a light ...
pump stumped	4/23/2006
Q: Ok, my father and I are baffled here. We have a perfectly good water pump that was attached to our ... A: My guess would be that all the "3 wire outlets" everywhere in the 60 year old house don't have a ...
WAC low voltage transformer wiring	4/22/2006
Q: Robert, I am wiring two low voltage xenon puck lights with a WAC model en-1260-r-ar 60 watt ... A: Vic Should be a diagram of the transformer connections with your equipment. None the less, the reds ...
Dedecated 20 amp circuit to microwave/hood location	4/20/2006
Q: I recently purchased a 4 year old home from a reputable home builder in Gilbert AZ. After moving in, ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * Skip the ...
Floodlights not working	4/20/2006
Q: How do recommend eliminating the photocell?I recently purchased a home which was a former builder's ... A: LIFE SAFETY WARNING! [disclaimer] Electricity is dangerous! You can be injured or killed! Improper ...
residential subpanel feeder sizing	4/19/2006
Q: Why wouldn't you use the 75 degree C column in 310.16? The insulation on SER is XHHW. This would ... A: Doesn't matter what the insulation rating is The TERMINATIONS at the breaker are only 60 degree ...
replace old switchs	4/19/2006
Q: I live in CA in a home built in 1953. I recently found that on some of my plugs the connections are ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
residential subpanel feeder sizing	4/19/2006
Q: I am planning on running #2 SER Al to feed a subpanel 25' from the main panel. I am not sure who ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
Floodlights not working	4/16/2006
Q: I recently purchased a home which was a former builder's model. To showcase the house at night, ... A: Eliminate the photocell from the circuit Anything is possible [as far as how they wired the lights] ...
Range Oven Wiring (and other Kitchen appliance wiring)	4/12/2006
Q: I live in Chester County, PA and am in the midst of remodelling my kitchen. The house is 23 years ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 NO! This is ...
fixture replacement	4/10/2006
Q: Do you mean, though, that it is safe to use and that the "warning" is meaningless?I live in an old ... A: Technically, it would be a violation of the NEC to install the light fixture, as the code requires ...
Junctiion boxes	4/10/2006
Q: What are the rules pertaining to the number and size of wires permitted to be joined in a junction ... A: There is no set minimum. You can bury the box, if the conductors, enclosure and splice method is ...
fixture replacement	4/10/2006
Q: I live in an old (1919) NYC apartment buildng. Wiring is original. I have replaced many of the old ... A: Give them the light back. All building wiring is 60 degree wire. Even the 90 degree wire cannot be ...
Home electical problem	4/10/2006
Q: I have a problem with the wiring in my basement and I am totally stumped as to what could be causing ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
Junctiion boxes	4/9/2006
Q: What are the rules pertaining to the number and size of wires permitted to be joined in a junction ... A: You have 11 conductors: two in each 2 wire cable plus 3 in each 3 wire cable, plus 1 for all the ...
REPLACING LIGHT WITH 2 PENDANTS	4/7/2006
Q: I would like to replace the one kitchen ceiling light with 2 pendant lights over the island. The ... A: Robert Wilber Licensed Philadelphia Electrician Philadelphia License # 3516 - 16765 * LIFE SAFETY ...
220v wiring	4/6/2006
Q: Should I run #6 stranded inside the house and if so, does it need to be in conduit or should I run ... A: Does your locality allow non-metallic cable? If so, get 6/3 with ground nm and run that. If not, get ...
REPLACING LIGHT WITH 2 PENDANTS	4/6/2006
Q: I would like to replace the one kitchen ceiling light with 2 pendant lights over the island. The ... A: That is perfectly ok. Only limitation is that you have to keep the existing outlet location, unless ...
what size service coming to my house	4/5/2006
Q: I have aluminum wire coming from the meter to my service panel. each hot leg goes to a 50 amp ... A: What you are describing is a 50 amp service. Never seen one. Are you sure the cable doesn't go to a ...
Circuit Breaker Question	3/31/2006
Q: Here's my crazy story. I hope you can help. A repair man recently damaged some wiring in our stove ... A: Sorry, he pinched the wire, but you trying to turn it on more than once contributed to the problem ...
Outdoor recepticles	3/30/2006
Q: I am installing two recepticles under my deck, I am extending a line from a ground fault recepticle. ... A: Attach wires run to new outside outlets to the load side of the existing GFI. The new outlets will ...

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About Electrical Wiring in the Home
This site answers questions related to home electrical wiring, home wiring, general electrical help,and other electrical questions related to aleternating current (AC). You can find help on the National Electical Code, home electrical issues, wiring electrical outlets, installing lighting, electrical grounding, and general electrical help for do-it-yourself projects not require an electrician. If you do not see your home electrical wiring question answered in this area then please ask your electrical wiring question here