| Subject | Date Asked |
|
| illegal jumper wiring | 9/28/2009 |
Q: I am new to the investigative side of the fire department. We recently had a fire in an occupied ...
A: use my personal email wbwill@sbcglobal.net if it says I am on vacation, I have to go out of town for ...
|
| wiring for a dryer | 9/27/2009 |
Q: I switched out my kitchen and laundry room, when doing so i tried to take the wire that was hooked ...
A: Older 220 appliances had two hots and a neutral, the new method and standards are two hots, neutral ...
|
| low voltage relay | 9/24/2009 |
Q: I have searched and just confused myself. I have a 1.5 hp 220vac 60hz high pressure pump motor for a ...
A: Kirk, don't know what all else is in your system, but if the total load is not much more than the ...
|
| Leviton GFCI 7899R | 9/22/2009 |
Q: The screws won't tighten which hold in the wires in the receptacle. What am I doing wrong? ANSWER: ...
A: If the wires are tight in the slots, the screws are of no concern, sometimes the first turn on those ...
|
| Leviton GFCI 7899R | 9/22/2009 |
Q: The screws won't tighten which hold in the wires in the receptacle. What am I doing wrong?
A: Are you wrappng the wire around the screw or installing the bare ends into the slots, most GFCIs ...
|
| porch light | 9/20/2009 |
Q: Trying to install a new porch light with motion sensor. Connected black to black and white to ...
A: Doesn't sound like it, white to white and black to black is all you need to make the light come on, ...
|
| smoke detector short ? | 9/18/2009 |
Q: replaced a battery backed up smoke detector at the end of the line of 6 of them. i have power at all ...
A: http://www.kiddeus.com/utcfs/ws-384/Assets/1276en.pdf and this from Kidde: ...
|
| Ceiling Fan Remote Inactivation | 9/18/2009 |
Q: I have a ceiling fan that is controlled by a remote. Is there any way I can inactivate the remote ...
A: The remote disables the wall switch, like if I had a TV and used the remote, I could not turn off ...
|
| Electrical problems in home | 9/17/2009 |
Q: I have contacted the manager of my apartment building about problems in my apartment building, but ...
A: Is the buzzing the same as the motor sound, or where those two different events? The motor then ...
|
| Electrical outlets quit 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: The current from the vaccuum opened the high resistance connection located somewhere in that ...
|
| Hunter fan control | 9/13/2009 |
Q: I have a Hunter fan with light that came with a remote control. I want to know if I can purchase a ...
A: Ok first things first, and most people need help with understanding this, so I will put it out here ...
|
| electric smoke detector | 9/8/2009 |
Q: My mobile home has two electric smoke detectors, for the last couple of days one of them keeps ...
A: I assume these are tied together on a common circuit, regardless, the first thing to check is the ...
|
| custom wiring for security | 9/7/2009 |
Q: I am thinking about adding some industrial PLC controls to my home. I am wondering is you see any ...
A: I agree, x10 can be very inconsistent. Why I have never discovered, I have some of their older ...
|
| custom wiring for security | 9/6/2009 |
Q: I am thinking about adding some industrial PLC controls to my home. I am wondering is you see any ...
A: I see only one possible issue, and that is the warranty if there is one, on the security system. ...
|
| wiring a 220 volt compressor motor | 9/4/2009 |
Q: I have a 3 HP-(220 volt only) Century motor that I'm installing on an air compressor. The wiring ...
A: This does get confusing, so forget colors for a second. It used to be that if you had a 220 stove or ...
|
| Grounding of house | 9/3/2009 |
Q: My home was hit by lightning two weeks ago, The television and computer were fried(destroyed). ...
A: Andy, Sorry to hear abut the property being damaged or destroyed. This is a complex issue, for ...
|
| ceiling fans | 9/1/2009 |
Q: Why do my ceiling fans hum at low speed?
A: Tom, Common problem, and without getting real technical, the lesser value or lower priced models ...
|
| Wall switch failure | 8/31/2009 |
Q: I have changed a light wall switch two times. I have tested the wiring with a voltage tester and I ...
A: Yes, First the switches do what, quit working, smoke, stay off. stay on,. what happens? Next, is ...
|
| motion light | 8/29/2009 |
Q: My house has a porch light and 2 other lights in the car port. They all are controlled by a single ...
A: No you have installed a motion light NOT A MOTION SWITCH. The motion sensing is done in the motion ...
|
| Generators | 8/25/2009 |
Q: I want to buy a generator that will run a fridge, laptop computer, a couple of small portable ...
A: Ok manual would work, but I have to assume you would be home to plug all this in? I mean if you are ...
|
| Generators | 8/24/2009 |
Q: I want to buy a generator that will run a fridge, laptop computer, a couple of small portable ...
A: Understand, do you want it to come on automatically when it detects loss of utility power? Or are ...
|
| 3way switch | 8/18/2009 |
Q: I moved my light switch over about 1 foot to install anew door. I marked the wires on the switch as ...
A: That is what I thought, I couldn't exactly pick out if you had changed the switch and marked the ...
|
| 3way switch | 8/17/2009 |
Q: I moved my light switch over about 1 foot to install anew door. I marked the wires on the switch as ...
A: Are you saying the new switch does not work, or you bought a new one to try as a solution? Below is ...
|
| attic fan switch | 8/16/2009 |
Q: I bought a used attic fan. I've done a lot of household wiring, so know most of the ropes, but this ...
A: Power is 110? The power goes to common, and then red is low, and black is high, the switch swaps ...
|
| overhead light not working, only reading 30 volts. | 8/14/2009 |
Q: So I was changing out a chandelier today. Old one worked absolutely fine, just wanted a different ...
A: It's not hard for YOU to keep white and black and green straight, but that is you, if you had the ...
|
| overhead light not working, only reading 30 volts. | 8/13/2009 |
Q: So I was changing out a chandelier today. Old one worked absolutely fine, just wanted a different ...
A: Check all your GFCIs all over the house and make sure they are fine, the wiring for the light comes ...
|
| electrical panel for mobile home | 8/12/2009 |
Q: We have been updating our doublewide, due to hurricane damage. After we replaced two ceiling fans in ...
A: Follow the dryer cord circuit to the panel, and take readings, it is acting like a bridge to ...
|
| electrical panel for mobile home | 8/11/2009 |
Q: We have been updating our doublewide, due to hurricane damage. After we replaced two ceiling fans in ...
A: I take it the dryer is 220 and what is happening most likely, is the dryer is closing a neutral that ...
|
| Pendant light fixture too short | 8/9/2009 |
Q: I have a pendant light fixture whose cord is too short. It's not an expensive fixture and so I ...
A: Mitch, It is safe if done correctly, remember not only to extend the same size conductor, but ALL ...
|
| Hanging/wiring chandelier | 8/8/2009 |
Q: On the one I've hung so far, I connected the two wires but not the copper one. I noticed today that ...
A: Good to hear you found the mark was there before, I ask that because there is a normal phenomena ...
|
| 208 three phase | 8/8/2009 |
Q: i am trying to hook up an ac power failure notification system to my building this consits a ...
A: There is a difference between ratings and reality. A circuit is protected for the amount of current ...
|
| Hanging/wiring chandelier | 8/7/2009 |
Q: On the one I've hung so far, I connected the two wires but not the copper one. I noticed today that ...
A: Becky, the burn mark was not there before? For sure? If so flip the breaker or unhook the lamp until ...
|
| discharging auto battery | 8/2/2009 |
Q: I have for the past two weeks or so been experiencing a dead auto battery in the morning. When I put ...
A: Well first it is most likely not an excessive draw while running, because the regulator would trip ...
|
| jacuzzi problem | 7/30/2009 |
Q: Will: Yes, I found the GFCI was kicked off. The tub hasn't worked for a time and I only just now ...
A: Good job on the GFCI, that tells you it saw some kind of ground fault current imbalance, real or ...
|
| Nervous about the power after a lightening strike really bad storm | 7/25/2009 |
Q: We were out of town when all this happen, first the phones came through phone line? They came out ...
A: Cathie, power surges caused by weather, switching surges by the power companies, a calamity down the ...
|
| electrical brownout protection | 7/24/2009 |
Q: I have a well and wish to know how to protect the water pump against an electrical brownout. The ...
A: We are talking single phase and brown out meaning low voltage? Sure there is a way, but it is weird ...
|
| Exhuast fan switch | 7/23/2009 |
Q: I have a 277v exhaust fan that is removeing steam from a commercial dishwasher with a 120v fan ...
A: I am trying to understand what you are saying, tell me if this is correct, you have the 277 volts to ...
|
| ac adapter gets hot | 7/22/2009 |
Q: I just got digital cable tv and the a/c adapter/transfomer that connects the cable receiver to the ...
A: Well glad to hear that, but here is another issue, there should never be interchangable adapters for ...
|
| Jacuzzi | 7/22/2009 |
Q: When I turn the temp. up and it runs for about 10 min. Then the jets comes on then the main gfi ...
A: Does the current rating for the tub match the current rating for the breaker? Heat is either ...
|
| ac adapter gets hot | 7/21/2009 |
Q: I just got digital cable tv and the a/c adapter/transfomer that connects the cable receiver to the ...
A: Lee, It could be several things, but exchanging that part first is the right move, simply because ...
|
| Well pump lightening damage | 7/21/2009 |
Q: What is the resistance between wirings to the well pump. The pump will work but flips the breaker. ...
A: Are you measuring the pump windings, or do you have the wiring to the pump isolated? If you are ...
|
| Ceiling Fan with Light and Remote - Stopped Working | 7/19/2009 |
Q: We recently purchased a home that had a ceiling fan/light combo installed on a vaulted ceiling, and ...
A: These are frustrating issues. First, I have to say you have done a very nice and complete job of ...
|
| Lights spontaneously turn off and on | 7/16/2009 |
Q: For the past 5 years two of the three lights in my kitchen will stay on for a while and then just go ...
A: Most likey there is a lose or corroded, or high resistance connection somewhere, it could be in the ...
|
| starter capacitor wireing | 7/15/2009 |
Q: I am replacing the fan motor in my outdoor air conditioner unit. The old motor had one brown wire ...
A: Yes, the old capacitor was a dual value cap, one for the compressor and one for the fan, so leave ...
|
| General International Table saw 50-220c M1 | 4/28/2009 |
Q: the saw is wired for 110. I would like to wire it for 220. The cord in to the on/off switch and ...
A: The motor could care less about white or black, if the OEM switch breaks two lines, then that is ...
|
| blower fan | 4/27/2009 |
Q: I have a squirrel cage fan torin blwr dct-916-416-5 cw is on the cage itself I want ot know how ...
A: You obviously know that simply stopping the smoking would rid all these issues, but it is good to ...
|
| blower fan | 4/27/2009 |
Q: I have a squirrel cage fan torin blwr dct-916-416-5 cw is on the cage itself I want ot know how ...
A: It is just like a furnace, as long as you restrict the square opening and borrow a clamp on to know ...
|
| blower fan | 4/26/2009 |
Q: I have a squirrel cage fan torin blwr dct-916-416-5 cw is on the cage itself I want ot know how ...
A: The two brown wires go to an external capacitor, which may or may not be hanging off the motor, if ...
|
| Circuit Breaker | 4/20/2009 |
Q: I recently had a heating and air conditioning service technician check out my unit for the summer ...
A: Well you still need a main disconnect, no matter what, now if the heaters were calling for heat, and ...
|
| Circuit Breaker | 4/18/2009 |
Q: I recently had a heating and air conditioning service technician check out my unit for the summer ...
A: so he was doing a "load test on the breaker" now the breaker will not trip, or reset or whatever, ...
|
| 240 volts vs 208 volts and one phase vs three phase wiring | 4/17/2009 |
Q: I am putting an electric kiln in a commercial building. The caretaker of the building said that I ...
A: Wow that was a lot of stuff to digest, I see why you need help. OK first of all the 208-240 thing, ...
|
| Power Converter or Electrician for 220 to 110 Conversion | 4/16/2009 |
Q: I moved into a condominium that has a 220v outlet in the laundry closet. I intend to buy a ...
A: If there is no main breaker, something is really wrong, get some references, and find a good ...
|
| Timers | 4/15/2009 |
Q: I have a Tork 1101 timer and need to know how to wire it to an outlet for a pool filter I have the ...
A: Feel lucky you got directions at all. The .pdf will not download for me from the intermatic site, ...
|
| powering a 110 outlet from a 220 source | 4/13/2009 |
Q: I have a 220 dedicated line feeding a 3 hp motor on a shop dust collector in our basement. Because ...
A: If you can start the collector from any tool in the shop, you mean you have aux contacts on the ...
|
| Multispeed Ceiling Fan with Light | 4/11/2009 |
Q: I was replacing the light system on the 3 speed reversing fan, but when I was disconnecting the ...
A: Alll the wires on but the light wires and the hot gray? Do I have that right? If so remember this, ...
|
| Multispeed Ceiling Fan with Light | 4/11/2009 |
Q: I was replacing the light system on the 3 speed reversing fan, but when I was disconnecting the ...
A: I thought you dropped the two wire light, what happened did it rip the rest loose too? Yu sound ...
|
| electric power tool | 4/10/2009 |
Q: I have a Delta model 14-650 Hollow Chisel Mortiser. It has a 1/2 Hp 1725 RPM motor. Can I attach a ...
A: I sent a really long answer on this last week Mark. Ok first, if it is single phase the existing ...
|
| Replacing wires on thermostat | 4/9/2009 |
Q: I'm replacing my thermostat and the wires are too short and damaged from previous installation (I've ...
A: Sure you can replace them, if you have a way to fish a new set of them down from the stat to the ...
|
| Do I really need 200 amps? | 4/8/2009 |
Q: I have a house built in the late 50's and was told when I Bought it that i should upgrade from 100 ...
A: It is complicated and it would seem you could add up the number of spaces and if it added to 100 it ...
|
| Do I really need 200 amps? | 4/7/2009 |
Q: I have a house built in the late 50's and was told when I Bought it that i should upgrade from 100 ...
A: Shuan, I know it can run big bucks to upgrade, but a hot tub will draw some serious current, and ...
|
| magnetek power center 6300a | 4/3/2009 |
Q: I need a wiring diagram for a Magnetek 45 amp model 6300a power converter. I need a wiring diagram ...
A: Firs thing I found was this: ...
|
| my power in my house keeps triping | 4/2/2009 |
Q: I live in India so I’m not surprised that I have finally got an electricity issue, however it sounds ...
A: sketch me a little drawing in paint or something and describe a trip switch, just draw a house a ...
|
| Outdoor TV Antenna | 3/31/2009 |
Q: I live at the highest elevation between my house and the TV transmission towers. Therefore, I get ...
A: Christian, take a look at the following links, tall with lightning is of some value but it is ...
|
| 4 to 3 prong stove recep | 3/29/2009 |
Q: I have a 3 prong stove and the wiring in my house has a red, black,white and the ground wire. I see ...
A: Oh I see I didn't read your note close enough, the problem is your existing recept has three wires ...
|
| 4 to 3 prong stove recep | 3/28/2009 |
Q: I have a 3 prong stove and the wiring in my house has a red, black,white and the ground wire. I see ...
A: The extra wire is green ground, goes to frame or chassis, it is the same as neutral but not off the ...
|
| blower motor for heat pump | 3/26/2009 |
Q: I recently bought a new blower motor for my heating system. I installed it. I wired the black and ...
A: I should have said squirrel cage type fan which is what it sounds like, a flat fan is called an ...
|
| blower motor for heat pump | 3/26/2009 |
Q: I recently bought a new blower motor for my heating system. I installed it. I wired the black and ...
A: It sounds like either you or the manufacturer wired it wrong, if it is dual voltage, I would think ...
|
| Go for 3 phsase? | 3/23/2009 |
Q: I was a Physics major in college, but while I may understand electric power on a theory basis, ...
A: I understand, have you written to the state? Write to your senators and tell them the problem, it ...
|
| motor repair | 3/21/2009 |
Q: repairing electric motor on sears direct drive table saw model 113-241680 motor #62855. After 30 ...
A: Is yours the plastic case model or total metal frame? Guess it really doesn't matter, we have had a ...
|
| Neutral wirings heating up | 3/20/2009 |
Q: I have a house that is only 4 years old. I have been in it 2 yrs. We have always has lights flicker ...
A: Dave, What a report! You have revived my entire faith in the human race. Not that everyone who ...
|
| whole house fan wiring | 3/19/2009 |
Q: I have an older Emerson whole house fan model SA55NXFGS-4781 that I am attempting to repair/rewire. ...
A: Green is ground? Leaving three leads? See any capacitors? It is obviously either connected for ...
|
| whole house fan wiring | 3/19/2009 |
Q: I have an older Emerson whole house fan model SA55NXFGS-4781 that I am attempting to repair/rewire. ...
A: This fan is just a motor with a pulley and belt or a fan on the shaft. So you are dealing with a ...
|
| weak voltage on range outlet | 3/18/2009 |
Q: My range quit working (nothing works) and I'm trying to figure out why. I've checked the terminal ...
A: open wire, bad breaker, lose ground in the main entrance, something went open, you measured ...
|
| electrical cord for pendant light | 3/17/2009 |
Q: We bought a pendant light that is only 4ft. long, but with our high ceilings we need it to be 7ft. ...
A: You did good, a molded plug is like the sleeving on the cord now, but molded into a plug that goes ...
|
| electrical cord for pendant light | 3/16/2009 |
Q: We bought a pendant light that is only 4ft. long, but with our high ceilings we need it to be 7ft. ...
A: Sure, it will take some searching, and then we need to find minimum amounts, you did say 7 ft from 4 ...
|
| wiring for ceiling fan pull switch | 3/15/2009 |
Q: Have a ceiling fan (don't know brand) that needs 4 way (3 speeds and off)switch replaced. Took ...
A: You are going to have to find out the model. Without a print, or someone at the factory to help with ...
|
| Motion Sensor Lighting | 3/14/2009 |
Q: I have an outdoor motion sensor light which is hard wired to the house power(no switch). This light ...
A: Dave. These lights will drive you nuts if you are not careful. On the light itself should be a set ...
|
| 60hz powering 50hz light ballasts | 3/12/2009 |
Q: I purchased ELT 600 watt, 230v, ballasts to run Philips 220v 600w Son-t lights. The ballasts are 50 ...
A: Bill, Good question and good for you for checking, I get questions from all over the world, and can ...
|
| 200v welder | 3/10/2009 |
Q: i found a good deal on a miller econotig welder but it is a 200volt input not 240 like my plug at ...
A: http://www.millerwelds.com/pdf/safety/quick_eng_200704.pdf http://www.millerwelds.com/products/tig/ ...
|
| 200v welder | 3/10/2009 |
Q: i found a good deal on a miller econotig welder but it is a 200volt input not 240 like my plug at ...
A: ODD 200 volt, what is the cycle or frequency rating? You could step down, but that is an expensive ...
|
| ceiling fan buzz | 3/9/2009 |
Q: I have a Harbor Breeze ceiling fan/light. It was there when we moved in, so I'm guessing it is a ...
A: So far you have done the right things, eleminating the possible loose screws or hardware, if any to ...
|
| cap start cap run 220v 5hp motor | 3/8/2009 |
Q: could you direct me to a site where i could get a diagram of the internal connections of these ...
A: If the caps are wired up, the rest should not be real hard to figure out, the electo is a run cap, ...
|
| dryer not hot enough, 220v issue? | 3/7/2009 |
Q: I have a kitchen aid dryer that has me and the repairman stumped. The dryer gets hot, blows fine, ...
A: Lyn, this dryer is how old? It worked before, then suddenly would not dry? You loaded it up and ...
|
| 220v compressor switch | 3/3/2009 |
Q: I Have a I've compressor with a 23 amp motor. It is currently hooked up to my fuse panel i am ...
A: Mike, there are line voltage switches that will carry your 23 amps, a contactor is normally used, I ...
|
| low voltage | 2/26/2009 |
Q: I have a frigeration unit, along with lights and fans, 600 feet away from PG&E 15k transformer, the ...
A: NO, to run a longer distance you want HIGHER VOLTAGE< like it is on the highway high voltage poles, ...
|
| SMOKE DETECTORS | 2/25/2009 |
Q: I came home from work and all the smoke detectors were going off. No fire/smoke any were. Through ...
A: Yes, make sure the backup batteries are good if equipped, second if they are tied together, the one ...
|
| 208V versus 220V | 2/21/2009 |
Q: Will an A/C unit run OK on 208V when its suppose to be wired for 220/240V. I have been told it will ...
A: Jeff, the "rule of thumb" is plus or minus 10%, as far as the compressor and or condenser fan. Is ...
|
| Several dead outlets | 2/20/2009 |
Q: My outside xmas lights were on, someone plugged in a hair drayer in the bathroom. They and one ...
A: Ron, I think you have a tripped GFCI, I have had these questions dozens of times, and found GFCIs ...
|
| electrical wire connection for bathroom light | 2/19/2009 |
Q: I recently installed a recess light in my bathroom. I took the power from another existing light in ...
A: Nestor, I would say to put things back to the way they were until you figure out why a light ...
|
| 2 stage air compressor wiring | 2/17/2009 |
Q: Greetings, I have a used 2 stage compressor, it is light green,15hp Uniclosed 3 phase motor. A ...
A: Andrew, Slow down. A three phase motor that has three leads, can be any color or combination it ...
|
| synchronizing blower fan on furnace with 3 speed ceiling fan. | 2/16/2009 |
Q: can i connect furnace blower fan to my lowest speed on my ceiling fan motor so both turn on and off ...
A: Charlie, it is possible, but not economical in most cases. To start two motors with one switch you ...
|
| Installing new electric baseboard heaters | 2/14/2009 |
Q: We are revamping a 1978 built house. My hubby changed out a 6'bb heater ( the old one worked fine / ...
A: Wow I can't tell if some controls are line level and some are contactor type, I think you are ...
|
| Light switch only turns off when in "middle" position | 2/12/2009 |
Q: I have a light switch that will only turn off if I put the switch exactly halfway between "on" and ...
A: Jonathan, Is there an outside chance this is a three way? Or on the lamp? If so let me know. If it ...
|
| treadmil | 2/4/2009 |
Q: i have a new treadmil that trips the afci breaker when first turned on but works fine after reset
A: The treadmill is most likely powered by a DC motor. The AFCI is designed to detect non continual ...
|
| electrical stove installation | 12/16/2008 |
Q: hope i am not wasting your time with a question already asked... here goes... i have a need to ...
A: I would think there would be at least a special order 110 volt stove, but it would be an expensive ...
|
| Power Consumption | 12/14/2008 |
Q: I live in a small one room studio apartment. I have a G.E. electrical window mounted A.C./heating ...
A: Excellent, excellent question. If more were thinking like you are thinking we could quit worrying ...
|
| Testing a 220 outlet | 12/10/2008 |
Q: How do I test a 220 outlet for a dryer? It has power but stopped heating. I've confirmed the ...
A: Linda, if you have to ask how to test for 220 volts, you should not be doing it. But what you do is ...
|
| spa pump 220v 50 hz 2 speed | 12/8/2008 |
Q: I am replacing a my old spa pump & motor that is 220v single phase 60 hz with one that was given to ...
A: I don't know hat these tubes are, are they plumbing or electrical jackets? Anyway motor for motor, ...
|
| spa pump 220v 50 hz 2 speed | 12/7/2008 |
Q: I am replacing a my old spa pump & motor that is 220v single phase 60 hz with one that was given to ...
A: The new motor, two speed is 50 Hertz, so depending on the nameplate speed when you apply 60 to it, ...
|
| Space HEater / Melted Wires in Wall | 12/6/2008 |
Q: I just purchased a faux fireplace and ran it for about three days. The outlet I plugged it in to ...
A: You were NOT lucky the breaker never popped, it should have popped before all this chaos. It needs ...
|
| replacement pcs for fuse box | 12/2/2008 |
Q: I have a house built in 1958. We have had a copper piece break off the black box that buddies up two ...
A: Becca, you can't just purchase a new style fuse holder and replace the old? Ebay would be my guess, ...
|
| GFCI | 12/1/2008 |
Q: I was going to install a GFCI in a bathroom where a standard outlet was. I pulled off the old ...
A: Pat that is a long explanation, longer than we have time for here. The outlet you picked is in ...
|
| fans | 11/30/2008 |
Q: Can you change a large warehouse type three phase fan to 110? It is a large Patterson fan that was ...
A: Quite possibly, I need to know the motor or power requirements of the fan. Is it three phase, what ...
|
| Control panel for Steam Shower | 11/29/2008 |
Q: I purchased a steam shower from Wasauna. 220 power and hook up was done by a licensed electrician. ...
A: Henry, I understand all the various types of touch control, there are some that use the human ...
|
| partial power loss | 11/28/2008 |
Q: Last night the power to half of my house went. It is not localized to one spot. Apparently it took ...
A: Dawn, The dishwasher may be on a GFCI, have you looked for and checked every GFCI on every outlet, ...
|
| taco pump | 11/27/2008 |
Q: i recently added a second zone to my boiler,i have a taco model 007-F5 circulator pump,and a taco ...
A: Is this a commercial or residential issue? I am happy to help individuals, sometimes really small ...
|
| Control panel for Steam Shower | 11/26/2008 |
Q: I purchased a steam shower from Wasauna. 220 power and hook up was done by a licensed electrician. ...
A: Henry, First let's do this. I hear or read the word nightmare and know we have a very upset person. ...
|
| Why do lights flicker and burn out | 11/24/2008 |
Q: For awhile now i have had some lights in my house flicker and bulbs burning out . Now i have lost ...
A: Many things, first I need more history, for a while now, is what? This suddenly happened? Sounds ...
|
| 240 volt wiring | 11/23/2008 |
Q: Is there any way to convert the standard hot, hot, neutral, ground 240 single phase wiring to ...
A: Greg, Unfortunately no neutral is ground and it is not another phase, it is a nightmare someone ...
|
| wall outlet power failure | 11/22/2008 |
Q: For no reason we can identify, five wall outlets, on opposite sides of the house, have failed at the ...
A: James, Help me understand your question. You have suddenly 5 duplex outlets that do not work on ...
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| wiring hook up for my wall furnace heater | 11/20/2008 |
Q: everything seems to hooked up already except one wiring coming out of the thermo from the top is ...
A: Vegas, you got to be more complete in your description, we don't know what all these heaters look ...
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| Purchasing a Generator | 11/19/2008 |
Q: I want to purchase an emergency generator to run the pump for our well water. It's a 1-1/2 ...
A: 1.5 HP depends on the voltage, but here are the formulas: 1.5 hp single phase 115 volts 20 amps ...
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| connecting 230 v 4 wire load to 230 v 3 wire motor | 11/18/2008 |
Q: I recently added a 230 v circuit to my shop in anticipation of converting my table saw motor. The ...
A: Scott, the four wire is the new way of getting a chassis ground to an appliance that used to be ...
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| Wires from house to utility pole | 11/15/2008 |
Q: From the corner of my house I have 3 wires connecting to the utility pole. The wires look slightly ...
A: Kevin, The City I doubt will have anything to do with the utility lines, it will be whomever you ...
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| Can I use 14-3 | 11/13/2008 |
Q: I've started replacing wire in my home to upgrade the old fuse box with no ground. In doing so, I've ...
A: Codes are good because it keeps people from cheating customers, all the good reasons, and then there ...
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| Breaker blowing at pool | 11/12/2008 |
Q: Ok I recently started helping a buddy take care of his in ground pool because he has no idea what he ...
A: Tom, Look on all three devices, get the amperage rating of each, write me back at ...
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| single phase versus 3 phase air conditioning | 11/11/2008 |
Q: My sons house has 230v 3 phase power to it. It has one 3 phase air conditioner in it, and one ...
A: Don, First thing you need to do is call your utility and find out what they are charging you, and a ...
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| Remote Switch Dimmer Modification | 11/10/2008 |
Q: Do you have any idea how I can modify the light dimming feature on a Hampton Bay Wireless Ceiling ...
A: That is a good question. I know where you want to go, and don't want the in between. have you ...
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| esb avalon16 residential tanning bed electrical help | 11/7/2008 |
Q: We have a esb avalon16 bed that has always worked great but now shuts off automatically every couple ...
A: Why are you using a surge protector on a tanning bed, does it call for a gfci or surge protector? ...
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| how to rewire a ceiling fan switch | 11/5/2008 |
Q: The pull chain in my ceiling fan (the one that controls the fan speed) pulled completely out of the ...
A: The switch location options should mean nothing, L stands for line or the incoming switch leg just ...
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| romex connector | 11/4/2008 |
Q: I just had my home inspected and the inspector told me I need to have the romex in a connector for ...
A: Wendy, First why did you have an inspector out to your house? Is there something going on that ...
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| wiring a saw | 11/3/2008 |
Q: I have a 3hp, single phase, 230V, 13A table saw and need to "hardwire" it. They recommend using a ...
A: Instead of writing out all the parameters, below is a link should be 6 pages which gives you all the ...
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| Capacitor in DC motor | 10/4/2008 |
Q: I have a 12V DC shurflo pump,which quit working. on checking I found motor will run if I give the ...
A: Bill, Why do you assume this capacitor is shot? Is it open? It is probably a noise suppression ...
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| Purchase from US | 6/26/2008 |
Q: I am from England and I am thinking of purchasing an electrical item from the US. The item is some ...
A: Steve you will first need to contact the manufacturer of the equipment with model and serial, and ...
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| hot water heater element wiring | 6/24/2008 |
Q: I need to wire up a 240v hot water heater element for a project I am working on. The element is U ...
A: Aaron, Your element if taken from a 240 volt tank, is simply a resistive load, designed to produce ...
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| Lighting Problem | 6/22/2008 |
Q: I was putting up drywall ceiling, and the person helping me lift cut the wires to a light fixture. ...
A: Amber, These questions are so hard to answer using this format, too much history needs to be ...
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| Electrical Surge felt in the Shower (Shower Mixer) | 6/17/2008 |
Q: Please can you help me. When I open the Water in Shower via the Shower Mixer (Tap) I feel electrical ...
A: is this s anew issue, suddenly started happening, does the electician feel the surge? Put a volt ...
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| How to replace the transformer for Rainbird Controller | 6/16/2008 |
Q: I am an absolute newbie and recently, my Rainbird Controller for the Sprinkler system went dead. So ...
A: OK first things first, I have no idea how the controller is wired in, is it plugged in, hard wired? ...
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| Ceiling Fan sound | 6/15/2008 |
Q: The metal piece which the blades are attached to are rubbing against the metal which the light ...
A: New fan? New light kit? Was is working properly prior to this rubbing problem? It sounds like the ...
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| 3-phase inverter tripping GFI | 6/14/2008 |
Q: I just got a new woodworking lathe Jet jwl 1642 evs if you want to look up the specs. The lathe has ...
A: I don't know what Jet uses for an inverter and even with their specs it don't tell me anything. I ...
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| electrical surges | 6/12/2008 |
Q: I'm having some type of power surge or something. When I turn on our washer in the garage the tv ...
A: Kenny, you got a something not a surge, and it needs to b e dealt with ASAP as this low voltage ...
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| European 3 Phase (380V-I think) to 1 Phase 220V | 6/7/2008 |
Q: In Europe, Installing Oven and Electric hot-plate (stove top) in the home. Stovetop is three Phase ...
A: YOu got a question I will tell you upfront, I have no idea what all the wiring is in a particular ...
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| table saw with 3 phase motor/how to run on residential 220 | 6/2/2008 |
Q: I purchased an old Powermatic table saw with 2 HP motor, found out it is 3 phase. How do I make this ...
A: You will have to purchase a single to three phase converter, which is known as a converter/VFD, the ...
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| Capacitor test | 5/31/2008 |
Q: In my home air conditioning unit, the fan motor stopped while the compressor was still running. I ...
A: A capacitor tester is the only known way of testing a cap, a Simpson PSM-4 I am not familiar with, ...
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| hot attic fan control | 5/30/2008 |
Q: We have a attic fan in our home. Tonight I noticed the rotary type dimmer control and cover plate ...
A: Rotary type switch, dimmer type switch? Is it at timer or speed control? Does it have steps or ...
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| lighting | 5/25/2008 |
Q: all of my lights seemed to be wired for dimmer switches, that are not installed anywhere in the ...
A: Ayoung, The reason your lights "seem" to be wired for dimmers [there is really no such wiring ...
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| 24 volt trolling motor | 5/24/2008 |
Q: I have two batteries 12 volts, how do I hook them up for my 24 volt trolling motor
A: Mark, to get 24 volts, you need a jumper [the size is determined by the amp rating of the motor, ...
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| home wiring problems | 5/23/2008 |
Q: The lights in 3 rooms in our house are not working. They are all on the same fuse/breaker in the ...
A: Margo, Did you replace the lamps with the energy saving florescent type lamps? They are usually ...
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| Re-Wiring Delta Table Saw Motor | 5/17/2008 |
Q: I recently purchased a Delta 10" table saw, and would like to re-wire it to 230v. The diagram ...
A: Mike it is confusing, these damn manufacturer's don't seem to know themselves. Let me give you the ...
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| electric kiln | 5/15/2008 |
Q: I have a chance to buy a 208 3 phase pottery kiln at a good price but all I have at home is 120/240 ...
A: Rick, probably, know what the amperage is? You can get a single to three phase converter and ...
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| wiring a converted 110v / 220v | 5/13/2008 |
Q: I have a compressor that was 110v then converted to 220v and now want to convert it back to 110v . ...
A: Johnny, Do NOT SIMPLY CHANGE THE PLUG< the motor needs to be reconnected externally so it accepts ...
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| 3 phase and 220 volt question | 3/12/2008 |
Q: My barn has 3 phase service, with 110 and 220 volt outlets. I have a new 220 volt welder and needed ...
A: Mike, that is really odd, I have a friend who was an expert on here for years and still helps for ...
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| Humming Sound from restaurant next door | 3/11/2008 |
Q: I have a business next to a restaurant. I hear a loud humming sound. It sounds like it comes ...
A: It could be the fan, and the reason there is a humming sound could be that something within the ...
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| no power to thermostat | 3/9/2008 |
Q: I installed a new digital thermostat yesterday. It did not work, so I reinstalled the old one. Now ...
A: Tina, still no power? Can you find a voltmeter to borrow? something to prove we have no power? Any ...
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| SInger Sewing Machine 220v conversion to 110v | 3/5/2008 |
Q: Will, I purchased a Singer model 222k from England with a 220v motor and foot controller. Can I ...
A: If I recall the sewing machine issue, they replaced it with a new one and resolved the issue. If ...
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| Electrical | 3/2/2008 |
Q: What are the dangers of having loose wiring?
A: Specifics: What kind of loose wiring? Connections? Loose from anchors? I will assume you mean ...
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| Hardwiring a Microwave? | 2/29/2008 |
Q: I bought a new over the range micro/convection oven with a 110v plug. The previous fan/light hood ...
A: Well actually either could be the problem. Can you gt a clamp on around the conductors and see what ...
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| Help? | 2/28/2008 |
Q: My eletricity bill has gone over $200.00 any tips to lower it?
A: Michelle, sure there are ways to lower it and gas bills. Without getting into your life style to ...
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| light, thermostat, and switch | 2/22/2008 |
Q: my daughter is making a incubator. To heat the incubator, she is going to install a 100 watt light ...
A: Mary, Quite the project. First thing I would do is go visit a pet store or breeder and see how they ...
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| MAYTAG NEPTUNE ELECTRIC DRYER WIRING | 2/21/2008 |
Q: I just bought a Maytag Neptune electric dryer to replace a gas dryer that was making too much noise. ...
A: William, Is it too late to exchange it? There is NO reason a gas dryer would emit more noise than a ...
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| 110v to 220v | 2/18/2008 |
Q: Is it possible to convert a 110v ceiling fan to 220v for use in Asia? I'm interested in the Minka ...
A: If there is room to mount it, a 220 to 110 transformer could be placed in front of it, in the body ...
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| Buzzing electrical box | 2/17/2008 |
Q: I just installed 4 new outlets in my garage, and when i plug in two space heaters my electrical box ...
A: you do understand what I mean by cycle the heaters? Turn one on for a few hours then the other, you ...
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| wiring | 2/16/2008 |
Q: was using a space heater in the hallway and the bedroom, both outlets stopped working. I checked the ...
A: Are the outlets new? I have observed many times when the tab was not removed from the side of the ...
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| Voltage Differences | 2/14/2008 |
Q: My Old Hot Water Heater Uses A 60 Amp Breaker That Runs At 240 Volts I Am Looking At A New Heater ...
A: Interesting, most older stuff is rated 220 and most new is rated 240. The difference is the heaters ...
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| Pool-pump | 2/13/2008 |
Q: I have a 2HP pool pump (230V) and i like to buy a variable speed control for this motor. It is ...
A: Nice complete answer that helps me help you. There are no variable speed motor controls as the ...
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| Dayton G73 | 2/11/2008 |
Q: Just had the unit installed by an electrician, unit goes on and off continually every 3 minutes
A: My first guess is that it has an internal thermal device in line, and the motor is getting too hot. ...
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| Electrical wiring through an inactive gas pipe | 2/10/2008 |
Q: The original builder of my house installed very elegant exterior gas lights. The gas lights required ...
A: Gary, I am having trouble picturing what and where these fixtures are, it takes a long ladder to ...
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| Generator | 2/9/2008 |
Q: I have a friend who has a 6000w generator/welder with a 3 prong 240 outlet on it and he would like ...
A: The 4 wire receptacle consists of two hots, 1 neutral, and 1 equipment ground. The ground slot ...
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| Incandecent Buzzing | 1/31/2008 |
Q: I had a question regarding a couple of torchiere lamps i bought at home depot which use a three way ...
A: Peter put the torch bulb in the hanging, and put the hanging in the torch, see if the bulbs make any ...
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| elect | 1/28/2008 |
Q: What would really happen to me if the old proverbial radio falls into the bathtub.
A: Doug, It depends on many things. Check out a few of these sites for some information: ...
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| Century Electric Motor Wiring Connections | 1/25/2008 |
Q: Will - I was wondering if you can assist me with determining the proper wiring connections for an ...
A: bud, Nice job and thank you for the kind words, if you get a chance how did it finally connect and ...
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| fan dimmer | 1/23/2008 |
Q: i opened up a new fan dimmer. i thought it to be a potentiometer but found something else. i know ...
A: Ali, Pretty good questions and many have not been as complete as you have in your research. First ...
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| furnace 2 spd blower | 1/18/2008 |
Q: Will, my question is this. I would like to wire a 2spd blower motor on an oil furnace w/ air ...
A: You will have to do some research, I did, when my gas Trane box shot craps and not one to be had for ...
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| furnace 2 spd blower | 1/17/2008 |
Q: Will, my question is this. I would like to wire a 2spd blower motor on an oil furnace w/ air ...
A: Yes I see the problem, most of the time a two or three speed furnace motor has a common, and then ...
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| Tracking a Hot wire through ceiling | 1/16/2008 |
Q: I would like to know are there any sesors/meters which will give a Beep or needle movement when you ...
A: Yes there are meters that do that, most commonly called tick tracers, come in all kinds of prices ...
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| Furnace Motor Replacement-Adding Capacitor | 12/21/2007 |
Q: I have a 30 year old Payne Furnace in which the motor bearings failed. The original motor had no ...
A: Ok, well it is working, but the cap case should not allow a shock to the frame, even metal cap to ...
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| 115V 48A? | 12/19/2007 |
Q: I have recently put a hydraulic car lift in my garage, and installed a new subpanel in the garage. ...
A: Chris, Interesting, so far I see nothing you did wrong, but one thing bothers me. Rule of thumb for ...
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| Oven Element Wiring | 12/18/2007 |
Q: )! But... in the process I damaged the red plastic cover on the wire coming from behind the oven, ...
A: I can't see what was showing as far as fuzzy insolation, the black tape if pushed back behind the ...
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| Furnace Motor Replacement-Adding Capacitor | 12/17/2007 |
Q: I have a 30 year old Payne Furnace in which the motor bearings failed. The original motor had no ...
A: Ok you put in a new motor and capacitor, in your furnace. With the capacitor mounted to the frame of ...
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| 4-prong generator outlet and 3-prong recepticle on house | 12/16/2007 |
Q: I have a problem with hooking up a generator to my house. I know you'll ask, so I'll tell you now: ...
A: Guy, IF you look back over dryer four wire instructions there are several comments and answers. ...
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| noise from sauna contactor | 12/15/2007 |
Q: Babbitt, I recently installed a new 6kw Finlandia sauna heater and after replacing the sauna ...
A: Marke, The contactor was replaced for the second time, and at the end of the question you ask if it ...
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| home generator | 12/12/2007 |
Q: Not sure if this makes sense or not but.....I recently did a home addition and had the electrician ...
A: yes I understand, her is the things that you need to consider. First the interface from the ...
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| nichrome heating elements | 12/10/2007 |
Q: will, so, i hope this is within your realm of knowledge, its kinda out there, so i'm gonna take a ...
A: Daniel, Sorry to hear you are not getting help from this site like you would want, I really have ...
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| cable cealing heat repair | 12/8/2007 |
Q: I have cable ceiling heat that has one exposed broken wire. It is on a loop at the end of the zone ...
A: Monte, I strongly suggest you find a local electrical firm familiar with this type heating. The ...
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| European in the USA | 12/7/2007 |
Q: I need to purchase a machine in europe for use in the USA. It has a small motor and infrared ...
A: I am not sure what you mean by one prong and two prongs, but if you bring a 50 hertz machine and ...
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| wiring home theater/ through wall | 12/5/2007 |
Q: Do you know where to get a hole cover, rubber maybe, that is perferated so you can stick wires ...
A: Ken, I know what you mean. I was looking around the other day for some online stuff, where to get ...
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| ongoing motor conversation | 12/3/2007 |
Q: will, thanks for your help. i think i'll be going back to this service call on monday- the one ...
A: You got it perfectly. the reason it won't run if just the run windings are energized is that there ...
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| 220v dryer receptacles | 12/2/2007 |
Q: I have an existing 220v receptacle for my dryer. This receptacle is a home run from the panel. Can I ...
A: You did the correct thing.....ask......and you could not have said it better! none of us are really ...
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| single phase reversable motor | 12/1/2007 |
Q: am a residential electrician. recently had a service call to replace the switch for a pool cover ...
A: It is a lot, and there are son many possible combinations I can only attempt to give you options to ...
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| Plug Type for Motor Amps | 11/30/2007 |
Q: I bought a JET planer, model JWP-15DX with a 3hp, single-phase, 230V, 11 amp, motor. The chord came ...
A: Basically the NEC says everything feeding and protecting the motor shall be a min of 125% of the ...
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| Smoke Detector junction Box Chirpping | 11/28/2007 |
Q: My home's smoke detector Junction box is chirping about every 2 minutes and will NOT stop. (Very ...
A: Not a problem and we would have went there next, do verify the breaker is labeled correctly. You ...
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| Clothes dryer outlet in an older home... | 11/27/2007 |
Q: ..older home has a 110 outlet for a clothes dryer, despite most current-day clothes dryers requiring ...
A: Julie, Your 220 dryer needs a 220 source, there is no good solution, other than to run a dedicated ...
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| question about wire I have | 11/26/2007 |
Q: I have a whole bunch of this wire that I don't know what it is used for. Can you tell me what kind ...
A: It is worth something and depending on the pounds, A LOT. Even wire with insulation on it is worth ...
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| Pot lights/recessed lights | 11/23/2007 |
Q: We recently finished our basement and installed pot lighting in our ceilings. A standard kit from ...
A: How many cans on each circuit? what sixe wiring to the cans? How far is the wiring run? Something ...
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| capitor charged water circulator motor | 11/22/2007 |
Q: my wood fired furnace has a capator charged circulator; about 1/6hp-and yet a 3,500 watt generator ...
A: Mark, I am trying to get the jest of what you are needing to know. You have a 3,500 watt backup or ...
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| 12 volt light | 11/21/2007 |
Q: Wanted to buy a light for hunting at night. Plenty of lights out there, but none that I wanted, so ...
A: No the amperage of the whole circuit and the wattage of the lights. Example the 2 mil power lights ...
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| motion light | 11/20/2007 |
Q: I recently installed a motion light for a friend. He says it stays on very dim untill it senses ...
A: You took 50 feet of 12/2 to this motion light and it is tapped off a junction where an attic switch ...
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| motion light | 11/20/2007 |
Q: I recently installed a motion light for a friend. He says it stays on very dim untill it senses ...
A: First of all "motion sensors do not sense motion, but the heat generated by that motion. There is ...
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| furnace cuicut breaker keeps tripping | 11/18/2007 |
Q: What do we need to do what is causing this, It is getting HOT!! its not even winter year. Please ...
A: Mrs Lipski, the problem is resolved? What was the cure? If nothing is hot there is a good chance ...
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| Plasma TV | 11/16/2007 |
Q: Recently purchased a new TV after moving into a new apartment. Had the cable activated and hooked ...
A: http://smr-home-theatre.org/Ground-Loops/ A bit in depth but read it. I experience arcing also when ...
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| motion sensor lighting | 11/16/2007 |
Q: I have 3 of them. Suddenly, they all stay on all the time, whether it's dark or daylight. If I ...
A: Has the temperature outside changed dramatically just before this started? There should be TWO ...
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| Dishwasher Electricity | 11/15/2007 |
Q: The problem is with my dishwasher electricity. My dishwasher worked fine last week, but this past ...
A: Candi, Hope the old dish washer was old, this an extreme test procedure to find out if power is ...
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| 230 volt | 11/13/2007 |
Q: I have a 2hp air compressor. It is 230 volts, 12 amp, 60hz, max amb 40, phase 1, with an ac motor. ...
A: If the motor is dual voltage and has a connection diagram to 115, sure you can switch it to run on ...
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| outlets not working | 11/11/2007 |
Q: The girls were blowdyring their hair and then all the outlets in the bathrooms do not work. I tried ...
A: Ian, All outlets were working and suddenly when using hair dryers, either out of the ordinary ...
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| outlets not working | 11/10/2007 |
Q: The girls were blowdyring their hair and then all the outlets in the bathrooms do not work. I tried ...
A: Blow drying...............I got it and maybe with more than one blow dryer? Ok some where on one of ...
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| Theoretical Question about LED | 11/5/2007 |
Q: We are in the planning stages our 'green dream home' and... I know that LED lights are virtually ...
A: Actually you pose a good question, and you say light emitting diodes consume less energy than other ...
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| outlet | 11/3/2007 |
Q: i have two outlets in my kitchen that are on a circuit breaker together. one out let ...
A: Is the non working outlet in parallel or follow the one that does? I would check it to see if it is ...
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| Electrical socket | 10/31/2007 |
Q: When I went to open my deep freezer, I noticed that it was not freezing. I unplugged it and plugged ...
A: Michael, No power to just ONE outlet? is it duplex, one on top of the other? Total of one plate ...
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| Can you help finish this? | 10/30/2007 |
Q: I was working with Don on this and he had to leave and said you may be able to help me finish (I've ...
A: Unfortunately we are in a circle, as there are no answers to that question without knowing what and ...
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| Microwave Shorting | 10/29/2007 |
Q: My microwave and oven are on the main kitchen circuit - however, recently my hood microwave has been ...
A: Christina, the microwave and the totally electric oven short out? What do you mean short out? Both ...
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| Electrical repair | 10/28/2007 |
Q: Just recently I purchased a foot massager in Japan and was very excited about it, in my excitement I ...
A: Saurabhi, Sure it can be repaired, the problem will be if it is worth it to you. You mi9ght try ...
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| well pump wire | 10/27/2007 |
Q: What size wire do i need for a 240 volt 20 amp well pump. total distance from panel to pump is 800 ...
A: Chris, I am tied up tonight and will put some work into this tomorrow. If you need a really quick ...
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| ELECTRICAL QSNS | 10/26/2007 |
Q: An electrical contractor has connected all the lighting on one phase, all single phase motors on one ...
A: How are things going with this division of same devices? Any problems? Lights dimming, anything at ...
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| Humming noise through the cordless phones | 10/26/2007 |
Q: I am having a feedback noise come through my cordless phone. It has been pined to my Jacuzzi Hot Tub ...
A: Get yourself a filter, like a DSL filter that seperates data from voice. You can get them at ...
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| Jacuzzi tub not working | 10/25/2007 |
Q: I have a small Jacuzzi tub in the bathroom and it was working fine until now. we are in the process ...
A: Corina, First check that all connections to this thing are still intact, check the breaker that the ...
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| vanity lighting | 10/25/2007 |
Q: The light fixture above my bathroom vanity will not turn on with the wall switch. The bulbs are ...
A: Cyndi, Is it switched from the wall? Have you checked the switch? Unusual that a light would quit. ...
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| electrical chirp - not smoke alarm | 10/25/2007 |
Q: have been experiencing a chirp (similar to the sound of the smoke alarm) coming from my junction box ...
A: Can you remove the smoke detector completely? Some have not only the 9 volt battery but a small ...
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| Bathroom lights | 10/23/2007 |
Q: I have an older house with older wiring. In the bathroom there are four separate lights controled by ...
A: It could be many things, It may be that there is a ground in that circuit somewhere, if you have the ...
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| Low generator output | 10/23/2007 |
Q: I have a John Deere 550 ge generator, about 6 years old used very little. Last year it started ...
A: It started having issues with higher loads, higher than before or just not doing what it used to do? ...
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| Replacing Cord Cover | 10/22/2007 |
Q: Will, I purchased a 1950s era pull-down ceiling light and the cord cover is frayed. Can this be ...
A: Jan, If you are handy with tools and cords, and have some knowledge of electrical devices, it ...
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| how many amps does a 3 hp motor need | 10/22/2007 |
Q: i am thinking about buying a Powermatic Model 66 Table Saw with a 3 HP motor. How many amps will ...
A: 3HP and the speed, plus the effeciency, plus the ACTUAL VOLTAGE applied to the motor will determine ...
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| 110 vs 220 for steam sauna shower unit | 10/19/2007 |
Q: Two suppliers of almost identical sauna steam shower units that sell for over $2,500. One used two ...
A: Frank, Don't you just love the sales twists that people use? I do not like businesses that cut ...
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| 3 way & 4 way switches | 10/18/2007 |
Q: I replaced my 3 & 4 ways switches in my house. I took each wire out of the original switches and ...
A: http://www.thecircuitdetective.com/ Try this site a very good self help step by step guide to find ...
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| Humming Dimmers when they are turned off | 10/18/2007 |
Q: When I remodeled the basement I added 6 recessed can lights which I wanted installed on 3 additional ...
A: Trying to find a hum with the human ear is nearly impossible. Try removing the connections on ...
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| Switch replacement-ceiling fan light kit | 10/17/2007 |
Q: Tonight I tackled what should have been a simple process, replacing the pull-chain switch that ...
A: ptrick, take the new switch and temp it in to the existing black lamp leads by using black on ...
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| Humming Dimmers when they are turned off | 10/17/2007 |
Q: When I remodeled the basement I added 6 recessed can lights which I wanted installed on 3 additional ...
A: Brendan, Interesting. Maybe you just think they are off, maybe they are on the very lowest setting ...
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| living room power problem | 10/16/2007 |
Q: i live in boston, in an old apartment building and ive been trying to hook up my new lcd tv to my ...
A: Sebastian, get what looked at and fixed? Sparks from cable outlets? are you telling me you see ...
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| how to check for an arc fault in my home wiring | 10/15/2007 |
Q: We recently bought an older (built in 57) house where the previous owner was nail crazy... he has ...
A: Ryan, I don't do much with checking whole house wiring for cable faults, I know there are non ...
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| pullchain for light in ceiling fan broken off | 10/14/2007 |
Q: The pull-chain for the light part of my kitchen ceiling fan/light combo broke of at the source. ...
A: Brad you propably wont be able to reattach a chain to the off on pull chain light switch, which is ...
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| School Project | 10/13/2007 |
Q: I am attempting to help my son with what they call an electrical motorized clothesline. They have ...
A: Use the scooter motor. the torque is good through the speed/torque curve and I am assuming it is a ...
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| School Project | 10/13/2007 |
Q: I am attempting to help my son with what they call an electrical motorized clothesline. They have ...
A: Tracy, Glad to best I can. What kind of attic fan and what kind of transmission is going to be ...
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| Outside motion light | 10/11/2007 |
Q: I have checked bulbs - they are ok, checked the switch -it's ok, the motion detector blinks red - ...
A: Remove all power from the device. Make sure the breaker or whatever is off to the device not just ...
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| Outside motion light | 10/9/2007 |
Q: I have checked bulbs - they are ok, checked the switch -it's ok, the motion detector blinks red - ...
A: Do you have the bulbs that quit working? If so see if they will work in something else. What is ...
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| Outside motion light | 10/9/2007 |
Q: I have checked bulbs - they are ok, checked the switch -it's ok, the motion detector blinks red - ...
A: Ryszard, Are the bulbs within the tolerances of the motion detector? Not too big or too small? ...
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| Bathroom Fan | 10/8/2007 |
Q: What is the life expecectancy of a bathroom fan. My fan was installed about 5yrs ago and has become ...
A: Beth, there is no exact time frame, it depends on make and model and number of hours used, humidity ...
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| Bedroom light and outlet wiring | 10/5/2007 |
Q: Will, I just bought a house built in 1964. The master bedroom has a ceiling fan which has the only ...
A: Travis, What would be really easy is if there are two switched leads at the switch itself, total or ...
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| Lightening strike 30 ft from home | 10/2/2007 |
Q: On 8-27-07, Lightening hit a security light pole on the end of a 3 pole line, causing it to explode, ...
A: Beverly, You have done a great job of taking down the needed data. It is impossible to say what ...
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| Voltage loss 2 volt on each computer | 10/1/2007 |
Q: I have a cyber cafe at home in which i have 12 computers. My UPS is giving 232 volt power supply ...
A: Possibly, But if you are exact on the 2 volt drop on each PC, then the problem is not in the cable ...
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| Voltage loss 2 volt on each computer | 9/30/2007 |
Q: I have a cyber cafe at home in which i have 12 computers. My UPS is giving 232 volt power supply ...
A: Ram, When an electrical load is connected to a supply there are many factors to be considered. If ...
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| 208volt vs. 230volt pump | 9/25/2007 |
Q: I have a 120/208 3phase 4 wire system. Can i run a single phase, 230v pool pump without causing long ...
A: Darryl, You have a three phase 120/208 system. So you havea delta configuration on the secondary ...
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| fluorescent lights | 9/25/2007 |
Q: My overhead light worked fine until my A/C repair man hit the wrong circuit breaker and shut off the ...
A: Tom, Coincidence or not, it sounds like the ballast is the issue. I can't see why cutting the power ...
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| Sprinkler pump wiring | 9/24/2007 |
Q: I purchased a 1 1/2 horse pump pre-determined to be ready for 230v. I had to make room in my ...
A: David, A ton of good questions, so lets start at the top. I have no idea if you did anything wrong ...
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| one phase to three phase | 9/24/2007 |
Q: We got one phase at home but bought a milling machine that needs three phase. How can I put to the ...
A: Ansie, You need a single to three phase converter. There are static models and rotary models and ...
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| wiring | 9/23/2007 |
Q: I got an old 3 light auto traffic light signal at a sale to put in my den. It has a red black green ...
A: Jack, You have the wiring connected correctly most likely. I know nothing of stop lights but they ...
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| CEILING FAN LITE SOCKET | 9/23/2007 |
Q: ARE CEILING FANS LIGHT SOCKET WILL HOLD THE BULB ONLY IF I PUT A TOOTH PICK BETWEEN THE BULB AND THE ...
A: Rob, You mean you have to put a toothpick between the light bulb outside threads, and the socket ...
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| wiring motor for lift | 9/22/2007 |
Q: I have a dumbwaiter(lift) from one floor to the other At present it has a rope pulley to operate ...
A: Very complex situation, you need a center off double pole double throw switch, with proximity ...
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| light switch getting hot to the touch | 9/21/2007 |
Q: A friend of mine told me that his light switches in his foyer and dining rooms start getting hot and ...
A: Andy, You should sign up for this site, what else is there? It is obvious that hot swithes are ...
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| ceiling fan & amp feedback | 9/19/2007 |
Q: Don referred you for this one... I just installed a ceiling fan (black-blue-white-ground) to the ...
A: Joe, the amp is on the same circuit as the fan and the amp is sending back emf into the line and ...
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| Thermadore gas cooktop | 9/18/2007 |
Q: I have a cooktop I'd like to reinstall it was hardwired and has tons of wires coming out of the ...
A: Jennifer, The ignitors if contolled seperately from the bundle of wires should have continuity with ...
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| electrical wire to short | 9/15/2007 |
Q: I am replacing my dead Maytag dishwasher with a new Maytag dishwasher. However, the electrical box ...
A: Heather you have a lot of good questions but you will have to explain YOUR situation in more detail. ...
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| Hot Switch Plate Screws | 9/15/2007 |
Q: What could the problem be with my dimmer switch when the screws holding the faceplate on is warm or ...
A: cOULB BE INDUCTION INTO THE SCREWS FROM THE ELECTRO MAGNETIC FIELD CREATED BY THE DIMMER. THE FACE ...
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| GFCI and Single Pole Switch to Leviton 6260M switch | 9/14/2007 |
Q: Info: Just moved into a house and I'm not too sharp with electrical.... Washroom has a GFCI and a ...
A: Pete, got ya, it could indeed use the white, the problem is that the directions could be written in ...
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| wire 208 vt motor | 9/14/2007 |
Q: Sir:i have a new air compressor i need to install in my garage.it has no cord/must be wired direct. ...
A: 220 will have usually a red and white and black, you want the two hots, from the 220 dryer, no ...
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| GFCI and Single Pole Switch to Leviton 6260M switch | 9/13/2007 |
Q: Info: Just moved into a house and I'm not too sharp with electrical.... Washroom has a GFCI and a ...
A: Leviton Blue to Hot Leviton Black to line conductor? Leviton White to nuetral if present Leviton ...
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| Can you change a 220 outlet to 110? | 9/13/2007 |
Q: I have a single outlet that has three holes--the big bottom one and two above it. Of the two above, ...
A: depends on code and how close you need to stay to code. When you have 220 at an outlet it is ...
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| GFCI and Single Pole Switch to Leviton 6260M switch | 9/12/2007 |
Q: Info: Just moved into a house and I'm not too sharp with electrical.... Washroom has a GFCI and a ...
A: Pete I shot you an answer on this, it did not get through to you, can you tell me what the four ...
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| wire 208 vt motor | 9/12/2007 |
Q: Sir:i have a new air compressor i need to install in my garage.it has no cord/must be wired direct. ...
A: butch, You need a double pole breaker with two hots and one ground, what voltage is the dryer? ...
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| wiring smoke detectors on dedicated circuit | 9/11/2007 |
Q: I was reading that you suggested that the smoke detectors be put on a dedicated circuit but a (wac) ...
A: Got ya. In Missouri we have a version of wac, it is titled wakko, which I am not sure exactly what ...
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| Re: 3 Ceiling fans | 9/10/2007 |
Q: Question I have (3) Quorum non-working combo light/ceiling fans located in different rooms.(Of ...
A: Mike, Each fan has a light control and and fan control on the wall? What kind of control on the ...
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| wiring smoke detectors on dedicated circuit | 9/10/2007 |
Q: I was reading that you suggested that the smoke detectors be put on a dedicated circuit but a (wac) ...
A: Matt, Didn't mean for my comments to read that way. i was not suggesting only stating that many are ...
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| Intermittent power failure | 9/9/2007 |
Q: I have a problem with several outlets in my upstairs including a three-way hall light. The upstairs ...
A: The power goes off and then resets itself? Go switch the three ways and see if some combination of ...
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| Ceiling fans | 9/7/2007 |
Q: I have (3) Quorum non-working combo light/ceiling fans located in different rooms.(Of course made in ...
A: Mike, Are you saying one of the running fans went pop and now all three fans are off? I would get ...
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| ceiling fans hum | 9/6/2007 |
Q: I tested three ceiling fans in my kitchen. Two of them were of the same model, and the third one ...
A: Greg, How are you doing with the fans? i have been out of town for a funeral for several days. ...
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| Res. Electrical problem I fear Is dangerous. | 9/5/2007 |
Q: This I beleiev is linked to an event that occured when I noticed water coming through the jacket of ...
A: Joseph, Well this is no good. I am going to give you my two cents and then refer you on to a very ...
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| electric plugs | 9/4/2007 |
Q: Why do the plugs on some of my appliances get hot? The house I live in was built in the 30's.
A: David, How hot is hot? 100 degrees? 125 degrees? 80 degrees? It makes a difference, as some people ...
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| 12V gate opener pre-permit education | 9/3/2007 |
Q: I would like to add a 12V gate opener to a driveway gate. Some years ago I had (2) 1/2" PVC ...
A: Matt, Pretty complex stuff, and very impressive, of course this is one of those things you will ...
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| Wiring one light one switch from 12-3 wire | 9/2/2007 |
Q: I wired a 3 way switch, that works fine to my bedroom. I wanted to add a seperate switch to the ...
A: Bill, There are several ways to go at a three way switch, and no good way to put diagrams on here. ...
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| trouble installation with motion sensor | 9/2/2007 |
Q: I just installed the motion-sensor light outside. I follow the instruction by connecting the white ...
A: Mike, it sounds like you did everything right. Were you replacing a failed light? There is ...
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| Main Electrical Panel | 9/1/2007 |
Q: A home inspector, for a real estate sale, wrote that 1) there was a missing cable connector at the ...
A: John, I see your confusion, and have an opinion, but I would suggest this. Copy and paste your ...
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| Refrigerator tripping GFCI in Garage | 9/1/2007 |
Q: I have a GE Profile refrigerator in my garage. It had been operating fine for approximately 1 yr. ...
A: Stephen, you have had a refrigerator on the GFCI for a year, and it never tripped until now. ...
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| Window AC unit. | 8/31/2007 |
Q: Is it safe to use an extension cord to power my window AC unit?
A: Aaron, Great question! I can't speak to the particular cord or outlet you might use, but an ...
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| moisture in my power outlet | 8/30/2007 |
Q: is it from the outside or is the air conditioning causing it any help would be great.
A: Ryan, the inside of the outlet in the wall is probably much warmer than the inside air right above ...
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| Re: Ceiling Fan/Light combo humming | 8/30/2007 |
Q: Will- I was referred to you by Don (from this site) because he wasn't able to help me. I installed ...
A: Jodi, Fans, even if they do happen to work with a dimmer switch, should not be run with a dimmer. ...
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| ceiling fans hum | 8/30/2007 |
Q: I tested three ceiling fans in my kitchen. Two of them were of the same model, and the third one ...
A: Greg, I don't think I over estimated at all, the diagnosis is even better this time. I can see now ...
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| ceiling fans hum | 8/29/2007 |
Q: I tested three ceiling fans in my kitchen. Two of them were of the same model, and the third one ...
A: Greg, Interesting and a great job of explaining the question! I am hoping that experts one day get ...
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| Whole house fan timer | 8/29/2007 |
Q: This is sort of like the question about the high low switch, but different. I installed a whole ...
A: Lyman, You are wanting a separate timer and then your choice of speeds? Sure just run the timer ...
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| safely cutting a wire | 8/27/2007 |
Q: We just bought a house that had a security system installed. All of the security consoles (the 3x4 ...
A: David, I sent you and a very detailed answer on this question. Did you get my reply? I wonder if ...
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| Megatesting three phase motors | 8/25/2007 |
Q: When checking for insulation breakdown in a three phase motor with a megatester I assume each ...
A: Daryl, One more thing, I should explain from just years of knowing motors. The emperical value is ...
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| @@V Plug wiring | 8/23/2007 |
Q: I am installing my old dryer (3 plug 220V) in my new house. The new outlett is a 4 plug 220V so I ...
A: Mike, In the new house the four prong outlet should have had a separate ground wire, four wires to ...
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| Fresh install of ceiling fan (no existing ceiling light) | 8/21/2007 |
Q: I am thinking of installing a ceiling fan in my bedroom but there is no existing ceiling light. I ...
A: Craig, Are you going to switch the fan or use the fan control cords? If no switch, just run the ...
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| Ceiling Fan Wall Switch | 8/21/2007 |
Q: Recently moved into house that is less than 5 years old which has ceiling fan w/light in great room, ...
A: Don, What happened to the fans with light kits and two switches? Do we really need remote controls ...
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| 2-speed swamp cooler motor | 8/20/2007 |
Q: Recently my swamp cooler motor is acting up. It won't turn the fan on the low setting, though I can ...
A: Bruce, What is a swamp cooler? Is it a window type air conditioner? It has a pump, is the pump a ...
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| AC to DC transformer | 8/18/2007 |
Q: I have a 6 volt DC(4 C batteries) clock.It has a receptacle for a 6 volt DC 100mA AC adaptor.I have ...
A: Stephen, Good for you. I appreciate the fact you have looked for a resolution to a problem with the ...
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| light switch/celing fan wiring | 8/17/2007 |
Q: Wall switch box is wired (as you are facing it) for 2 light switches. Left wires come out of wall ...
A: Josh, I think so, the red sounds like it was for the light. So your power is coming from the wall? ...
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| 3 prong dryer to 4 prong | 8/16/2007 |
Q: I used to have a 3 prong 220v dryer receptacle, my new dryer has a 4 prong plug. I purchased a new ...
A: Sean, I think so. If it makes you feel better everyone struggles with this old three wire ...
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| Tanning Bed circuit problem | 8/15/2007 |
Q: I just recently purchased a tanning bed for my wife. The store and the customer service stated that ...
A: Chris, Most salesman will tell me or you we can make a milk shake in a microwave and pulled pork in ...
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| Welder In Garage newly Wired on 220 | 8/13/2007 |
Q: Will: I am trying to get a welder wired up in my garage. I purchased an older Lincoln Stick Machine ...
A: Allan, you did the circuit right far as I can tell, I mean nothing out of the normal. You need a ...
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| Evaporative Cooler motor | 8/13/2007 |
Q: I have a problem with my swamp cooler-I replaced an old squeaky motor on my evaporative cooler... ...
A: Maggie, what was the first motor? What is the second motor? It sounds like the start circuit is ...
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| Generator/Camp wiring | 8/13/2007 |
Q: I just completed a very simple wiring job on my hunting camp. I have two 15A circuits with a few ...
A: Cory great information! I see why you would no mention that. You need a voltmeter asap! Something ...
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| cant identify wires to wire doorbell | 8/13/2007 |
Q: I feel a bit stupid here, but here goes: I bought a new doorbell (chime plate and cover) and didn't ...
A: Mark, you are OK, here is what happens, one pair comes from the transformer, one pair goes to a ...
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| automotive wiring | 8/12/2007 |
Q: I have a 1987 lance lc300 cabover camper, or slide in camper. It is equipped with a deep cycle ...
A: Josh< I see, and without knowing these devices or seeing them I would be hard pressed to say. But ...
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| Generator/Camp wiring | 8/12/2007 |
Q: I just completed a very simple wiring job on my hunting camp. I have two 15A circuits with a few ...
A: OK Cory see below, is this or is this not the way you have wired the panel? just scratch off the ...
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| Generator/Camp wiring | 8/10/2007 |
Q: I just completed a very simple wiring job on my hunting camp. I have two 15A circuits with a few ...
A: and I will get back to you with more information. At this point look for an incomplete bond, and or ...
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| Generator/Camp wiring | 8/10/2007 |
Q: I just completed a very simple wiring job on my hunting camp. I have two 15A circuits with a few ...
A: Cory, You took all the outputs from the generator and combinded them? Can you not go from ...
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| Electric motors | 8/10/2007 |
Q: Have a domestic project for which I need a 1HP, 3400/3600 RPM, SP 110/115 VAC, variable speed - and ...
A: a one HP power tool? The universal part is OK, but it will be a brush type motor and one horsepower ...
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| Electric motors | 8/9/2007 |
Q: Have a domestic project for which I need a 1HP, 3400/3600 RPM, SP 110/115 VAC, variable speed - and ...
A: Willy, don't know what bank you have, but here is how you can do this. What is the speed range you ...
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| Outside lighting using deapcell marine bat. | 8/8/2007 |
Q: I would like to install 8 Travel trailer type lights along my wall using a deep cell marine battery ...
A: Donald It will take some engineering to come up with all this but can be done. I guess my question ...
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| Electric range hook up | 8/8/2007 |
Q: I have put an electric range in my garage to use for canning. We do not need to use the oven part. ...
A: Good question Daryl, I don't know if there is amp rating on just the burners like a cooktop, which ...
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| wiring relay | 8/8/2007 |
Q: My brother-law- who is a hvac person wired a new relay that is on the side of the inside unit which ...
A: I can try John, first thing does the setup sheet call out for specific positioning for the relay, ...
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| Replacing GFCI outlet with standard outlet, not working, extra red wire? | 8/7/2007 |
Q: I bought my home (built in '71) and it had one GFCI outlet in the kitchen that would not work ...
A: Chris, Long history of switch failures in this location. But if the outlet worked, then it should ...
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| Light switch change to Timer | 8/7/2007 |
Q: I am replacing a light swith for my outside lights with a Leviton Switch/Timer. The new timer ...
A: Craig, This is a problem when we the free experts cannot see what you see. I apologize for not ...
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| Light switch change to Timer | 8/6/2007 |
Q: I am replacing a light swith for my outside lights with a Leviton Switch/Timer. The new timer ...
A: Craig, You have a three way switch [the new one] that you don't need. It may not be returnable and ...
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| 220V to 208V | 8/5/2007 |
Q: Greetings! I am a test engineer from the Philippines. Our company based in US will be transferring ...
A: yzza, I understand the situation. However I make my living by consulting and reverse engineering ...
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| lights blinking/flickering | 8/5/2007 |
Q: For some time I have noticed occasional blinking of the overhead lights in various rooms of my ...
A: David, It very well could be the same thing. You have a condition were there is either a loose ...
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| Redoing electric | 8/5/2007 |
Q: I just purchased my home and the contractor advised that we would need to redo the entire house ...
A: Dustin, Probably both. 100 Amps is not what they put in three bedroom homes now day, with all the ...
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| Stove Plug three prong to four | 8/4/2007 |
Q: I have a older stove that had a three prong plug, I went to Lowe's and bought four prong plug. I am ...
A: Morgan, You had an older stove with three wires, then bought a four wire/prong plug. You have two ...
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| electrical machine | 8/4/2007 |
Q: Why the permanent magnet generator is made to generate excitation voltage for the main exciter at ...
A: I am not sure why they would do such a thing, I take it there is something that increase the speed ...
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| Maytag Dryer | 8/4/2007 |
Q: Will: Perhaps you may have some insight into my problem. I have a Maytag Dryer Model DE612, that has ...
A: Nick, You might as well save the bullet, it will just ricochet and hit you. If you go to an ...
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| Wall switch | 8/3/2007 |
Q: My ceiling fan & light suddenly stopped working. I think it may be the wall switch that operates it. ...
A: Carol, Ok, that makes sense, so something is OPEN in this part of the circuit that includes an ...
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| Wall switch | 8/3/2007 |
Q: My ceiling fan & light suddenly stopped working. I think it may be the wall switch that operates it. ...
A: Carol, I am in dead rush today, so real quick, just two wires to the switch? If more than two the ...
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| Maytag Dryer | 8/3/2007 |
Q: Will: Perhaps you may have some insight into my problem. I have a Maytag Dryer Model DE612, that has ...
A: Nicholas, You are doing very well. Nice job on looking for the volt drop. Without a drawing I can ...
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| Garage Door | 8/3/2007 |
Q: This past winter we started experiencing problems with our garage door opening(auto door opener). ...
A: Jennifer you are welcome, you will find that a little loose can cause a lot of binding, garage doors ...
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| GFCI question | 8/2/2007 |
Q: Do GFCI receptacles protect against short circuits or overloads? I was reading the instructions for ...
A: Angel, It really makes no difference. Metal will not be a problem. It should be gasketed to keep ...
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| Pre-wired In-ceiling Speakers | 8/2/2007 |
Q: My wife and I just bought a condo. It is "pre wired" for in-ceiling speakers in all the rooms (only ...
A: Generally most homes now days will have a room or two with the speaker wires ran in the walls for ...
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| outdoor plug trips breaker | 8/2/2007 |
Q: I have a pond in my backyard near my patio. I had an electrician install an outdoor plug next to ...
A: Patty, You say you did plug other things into this outlet? And this circuit has a GFCI in the ...
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| Garage Door | 8/1/2007 |
Q: This past winter we started experiencing problems with our garage door opening(auto door opener). ...
A: Jennifer, There is a quite a list of issues but here are some starting points. Do you know why it ...
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| 220 Baseboard Heat and its wiring | 8/1/2007 |
Q: I am vary familiar with standard house wiring. I am working with a friend to remodel her bathroom. ...
A: Jim, Don't you love it when you are doing a favor for a friend, and it turns into a huge time ...
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| GFCI question | 7/31/2007 |
Q: Do GFCI receptacles protect against short circuits or overloads? I was reading the instructions for ...
A: Angel, You are correct. The ciruit breaker does that part. The GFCI is GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT ...
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| Electrical disconnect | 7/31/2007 |
Q: "I want to disconnect electric source that powers an electrical power strip that is connected to my ...
A: Deni, Sure, if you have identified the cable, or romex or whatever ties to the power strip in the ...
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| Changing ceiling light | 7/31/2007 |
Q: Don I'm trying to change a ceiling light. There was a fan there, with its own light. But I removed ...
A: Neil, can you tell me what the connection was to the old fan and light? first thing is to try and ...
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| electrical appliance | 7/31/2007 |
Q: Have a puzzle: when I run my hand mixer my coffee bean grinder (that is plugged in the split kitchen ...
A: Kees, This mystery has always occurred? As long as you can remember? Or at any time did the two ...
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| Light Buzzing Sound | 7/30/2007 |
Q: I have 2 recessed can lights using BR30 Bulb, controlled by a dimmer switch. It has worked fine for ...
A: Olivier, I have some cans myself and on dimmers also. Often they buzz from the element about to ...
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| No electricity in bathroom | 7/30/2007 |
Q: I moved into a 1971 mobile home recently & the light switches & outlets in the master bathroom do ...
A: Samantha, The key is that when you plug something in things work... My guess is the wires hanging ...
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| Identifying the old house wiring | 7/29/2007 |
Q: I would like to install a ceiling fan in an old house in which the wiring, including the Ungrounded ...
A: Kip you way you hav3 no black and no white and no ground [bare] either? Are your outlets only two ...
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| Hot Watert Heater | 7/29/2007 |
Q: I am trying to put a timer on my electric hot water heater. I thought I needed a plug so we put a ...
A: Imelda, Hello, I am not sure what you have as all the terms you used were good terms, but there are ...
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| GFCI not working | 7/29/2007 |
Q: The GFCI in a bathroom we're working on is not working, and neither are downstream outlets. We ...
A: Kim, The GFCI in the bathroom which controls some other outlets, is not working now, did it before? ...
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| Dryer 3-Prong Outlet | 7/28/2007 |
Q: We just moved into a new home and when I plugged our dryer into the 3 prong plug outlet, it is not ...
A: Bill, Volt meter in the plug will tell you if there is any voltage or enough present to operate the ...
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| superpump pool in ground 230vs110v | 7/27/2007 |
Q: I have bought a new Hayward super pump for my in ground pool. The old pump was running under 110, so ...
A: Paul, Some motors are made to run on EITHER 110 or 220 and can be reconnected by the user. Some ...
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| Gargage Door Opener | 7/27/2007 |
Q: My house is 9 years old, but the sensor on the garage door has always been touchy. One of our pets ...
A: Diana, There are many types of garage door openers and sensors and proximity switches, so I don't ...
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| GFCI | 7/27/2007 |
Q: All the GFCI receptacles in my house are not working. They are the ones that do not have a reset ...
A: Tia, They are able to be reset somehow, do you know where the circuit breaker box is? There is ...
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| generator wiring help | 7/26/2007 |
Q: I would like to know if I can rewire my air compressor. It has 220 single phase with a 6-20p wire. ...
A: If you get a minute let me know how you dealt with it, this no doubt will be a question again. Will ...
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| generator wiring help | 7/26/2007 |
Q: I would like to know if I can rewire my air compressor. It has 220 single phase with a 6-20p wire. ...
A: Jim, If the motor is single phase then there is no chance for the three phase idea, short of buying ...
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| troubleshooting/wiring/mobile home | 7/25/2007 |
Q: we have 1999 clayton mobile home. on the 20th of july there was a strong electrical smell and some ...
A: Debra, I appreciate the very kind and "pronounced" comments. It is a volunteer site and no ...
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| hvac wiring | 7/25/2007 |
Q: I have a propane fired furnace (laying on side in my attic) and an outside (small) air conditioning ...
A: Rob, Actually I have went and figured and still without an answer, no need to reply I wanted to say ...
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| GFI circuit breaker | 7/24/2007 |
Q: I am building my own home and I have a GFI Arc-Fault breaker to one of my bedrooms that keeps ...
A: Yes, you need to do a search on a "tic tracer". They are meters now available at hardware stores, ...
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| 220v wiring problem | 7/24/2007 |
Q: My wife and I recently purchased our first home, about 2 months ago to be specific. About 2 weeks ...
A: If the tracer will not work, take a look at this site: http://www.thecircuitdetective.com/index.htm ...
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| Dryer Shock | 7/24/2007 |
Q: Sir, I recently bought a new house and when I set up the dryer and it gave me a tremendous shock. ...
A: Jason, First this is a dangerous situation and until you get is solved, you should unplug it. What ...
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| 3 wire electric range | 7/23/2007 |
Q: We recently redid the tile in our kitchen and had to move our electric range. However, when I ...
A: I can't say for sure, but the normal setup is the ground or neutral in the middle. If you have any ...
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| 3 wire electric range | 7/23/2007 |
Q: We recently redid the tile in our kitchen and had to move our electric range. However, when I ...
A: The red and black are normally the 220 hot leads and the bare wire is neutral or ground, both the ...
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| Dead Outlet | 7/22/2007 |
Q: The line to an outside electrical outlet is completely dead. I checked the circuit breaker and none ...
A: Depends, It is outside and they usually install them just like the interior outlets which is to ...
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| GFI circuit breaker | 7/22/2007 |
Q: I am building my own home and I have a GFI Arc-Fault breaker to one of my bedrooms that keeps ...
A: First to the builder and have them fix it. If they won't do it, then focus on the new GFCI. Wouldn't ...
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| outdoor motion detector | 7/21/2007 |
Q: I have a outdoor motion detector and it seems to be getting the electric to it because its blinking ...
A: Kari, Slow down and relax we will figure something out. OK you have an outside motion detector ...
|
| Wall switch | 7/21/2007 |
Q: I have a three switch outlet on my wall. The first two switches work but the third one does not. ...
A: Ron, Switches are not understood devices. A switch really has no power. It is simply a way to open ...
|
| pool pump | 7/20/2007 |
Q: What is the advantage of 220 volt over 120 volt for pump motor.I have one wired for 120v and plan ...
A: I appreciate the kind rating and kind words, it is strictly volunteer and it is nice to know I was ...
|
| Hard wired smoke alarm | 7/20/2007 |
Q: Our smoke detectors are hard wired and have been going off every half hour for the last twenty four ...
A: I doubt weather unless water is shorting something out in one of them. Have you tried to ...
|
| Ceiling fan light problem | 7/20/2007 |
Q: I have a ceiling fan (in a house I just moved into)with light kit on a single switch. The light ...
A: Barry, It will take a little patience, but many times these fans get hung and wired incorrectly, ...
|
| Ceiling fan light problem | 7/19/2007 |
Q: I have a ceiling fan (in a house I just moved into)with light kit on a single switch. The light ...
A: Barry, You checked the wires to the light itself blue and white...with a tester and they have ...
|
| Hot Tub Electrical Requirements | 7/19/2007 |
Q: I have a question regarding the electrical requirements of a hot tub. I have a brother-in-law that ...
A: I appreciate the kind words and votes of confidence. Yes many will save a dime anyway they can, and ...
|
| New dryer wrong plug | 7/19/2007 |
Q: I just bought a new/used dryer and realized that we had the wrong outlet at our house. We have what ...
A: Kate, I think you are fine. Just to be sure, your new dryer/used dryer requires a thirty amp cord ...
|
| 220 extention | 7/17/2007 |
Q: Will, I have a 220 outlet that needs to be moved about 15 feet. The old outlet is no longer needed ...
A: If local codes allow you can put a junction box in line. If code don't like it as splice box, make ...
|
| Dead Outlet | 7/16/2007 |
Q: The line to an outside electrical outlet is completely dead. I checked the circuit breaker and none ...
A: Jim, Has it ever worked? If it was working and is not now, you get no voltage at all from hot to ...
|
| Don Beck | 7/16/2007 |
Q: I noticed in one of your answers that you "tinker" in inventing. Do you know if there is a device ...
A: Hey Don, How are you doing? Will you write a white paper on the installation of four wire ...
|
| SPLICING WIRE TO ELECTRIC STOVE. | 7/16/2007 |
Q: I'm in the process of remodeling my kitchen,We have to move the electric stove about 3 feet from ...
A: I don't like taking chances with electricity, not that splices are risky, it is another high ...
|
| 3 Phase Wiring | 7/16/2007 |
Q: I have a concrete grinder that uses 220 3phase 20amp service. When I need to use it at nights on a ...
A: Almost...............three phase has line to line to line voltage at which it is rated, so if you ...
|
| storm and electrical | 7/15/2007 |
Q: last night we had a bad storm in Alberta and the power went off and on 4 times.Then I noticed our ...
A: Linda, I can give you some ideas. Many times in a storm with severe lightning and not always ...
|
| splicing coaxial cable | 7/15/2007 |
Q: I just severed 3 coaxial cables from my satellite dish ! Since the satellite company is ...
A: Yes you can repair it. There are hundreds of coaxila patch kits available but the best ones are sold ...
|
| AC/DC converter | 7/15/2007 |
Q: I have modem that requires 10.5vdc 900mA, but the only converter I have delivers 10vdc 800mA. Will ...
A: Maybe I read this wrong. Your original says that the modem reuires 10.5 and your follow up asks if ...
|
| 220v wiring the receptical | 7/15/2007 |
Q: I am trying to wire up a 220 line for my welder. I installed a 40 amp dual pole breaker in my box. ...
A: Jeff, This is the delima everyone with an older house and new range or 220 dryer faces, the old ...
|
| 3 Phase Wiring | 7/14/2007 |
Q: I have a concrete grinder that uses 220 3phase 20amp service. When I need to use it at nights on a ...
A: Chris here is your problem. from job site to job site you have an electric motor that is wired to ...
|
| electrical hookup to stove | 7/14/2007 |
Q: I hooked up the 220 V wiring to the female receptacle for the stove plug yesterday. After I turned ...
A: Richard, low light and glasses, somehwat familiar with that issue. Now the important issue. Red ...
|
| 2 lights, 1 power source, big problem | 7/13/2007 |
Q: I'm trying to finish my basement, and I have one issue that I can't seem to get around. I have 2 ...
A: Chris no such thing as big problem just ANOTHER problem. I am trying to get the complete idea of ...
|
| AC/DC converter | 7/13/2007 |
Q: I have modem that requires 10.5vdc 900mA, but the only converter I have delivers 10vdc 800mA. Will ...
A: How did it work out? Jim, it won't do any harm to try it. These supplies are not usually ...
|
| running a fridge on an inverter | 7/13/2007 |
Q: I attempting to build an RV on the cheap (which for me, means avoiding propane fridges). I have 2 ...
A: Josh, Pretty cool! I invent stuff, and it works sometimes and sometimes it falls flat, but I sure ...
|
| Low voltage connection | 7/12/2007 |
Q: If I connect a 10vdc 900mA output converter to a modem which needs 10.5vdc 800mA will it work? Will ...
A: No it should do no harm and the modem should run at the 10 vdc, unless it is a modem that is rated ...
|
| Ceiling Fan Universal Remote | 7/12/2007 |
Q: I just bought a Hunter ceiling fan and am adding a Harbor Breeze remote control. The wiring ...
A: Generally if you have no light kit you simply put a wire nut on the end and secure it out of the ...
|
| Dryer hook up | 7/12/2007 |
Q: I have moved into an apt. that does not have regular dryer/washer hook up. I was wanting to get a ...
A: Well, Here is the problem. I think you are referring to needing a dryer that runs on 110. A washer ...
|
| Wiring Diagram for Motor | 7/12/2007 |
Q: I am installing an exhaust fan in my greenhouse, however I don't have the wiring diagram for the ...
A: Garry, did you need some more help? Write me at my office service@emrrepair.com and put motor ...
|
| No power to lights and fan | 7/11/2007 |
Q: This issue is boggling my mind and I am hoping an expert will have a better idea of what might be ...
A: Well this is a tough one. Where do you think the flash came from? At the switches you would not ...
|
| Replacing a hotplate | 7/11/2007 |
Q: I have to replace two hotplates in my electric stove. A friend has given me two that match in size ...
A: Ok two leads with the same wattage versus four with the same. So what you need is the combination ...
|
| circuit breaker arcing | 7/11/2007 |
Q: my double #30 breaker for the hotwater heater has started to arc. (I have been shuting down my ...
A: Are you shutting down the hot water heater by the breaker each time? Where exactly is this arc? Why ...
|
| hvac wiring | 7/10/2007 |
Q: I have a propane fired furnace (laying on side in my attic) and an outside (small) air conditioning ...
A: Rob, What a mess. Let me see what I can come up with. The blower is in the heat unit correct? And ...
|
| Service Entry | 7/9/2007 |
Q: I installed a 200 amp service entry, meter and load center on my stand a lone garage. It was ...
A: Don, Good for you on the great planning and thinking ahead! Actually another expert on here named ...
|
| Garburator installation | 7/9/2007 |
Q: I want to have a garburator (electric waste disposal) in our sink. This involves an electrical ...
A: Jet, If your existing outlet is in the correct place to have a switch for your disposal it could ...
|
| Backfeeding Generator | 7/7/2007 |
Q: I'm preparing for the hurricane season here in Houston and would like to know how to connect the ...
A: John, You know how to pull the main so everything on the load side is now isolated. Instead of a ...
|
| differnet supply | 7/6/2007 |
Q: I am looking to buy some pumping equipment in the USA. the spec says it uses 240 volt single phase ...
A: Mike You have a 240 volt 50 AMP pump that you have 240 volt 15 amp supply? If I read your ...
|
| Troubleshooting spa | 7/2/2007 |
Q: I am looking for troubleshooting assistance. I have a Leisure Bay spa that seems to keep having ...
A: Chad, I don't understand the term "pack", what is a pack? If the high speed was disconnected ...
|
| Wiring a basement | 6/28/2007 |
Q: We built a home last summer and it has an unfinished basement. I plan on doing most of the wiring ...
A: Jerrett, That is totally amazing. It sounds exactly like my basement, storage under the stairs the ...
|
| electrical problem | 6/27/2007 |
Q: I live in a rented house which seems to have very outdated wiring to it! I have now had to seal off ...
A: Nikki, You seem to be a very sharp Mom. You have done everything right. All your curiosity about ...
|
| 208V HVAC motor wiring | 6/27/2007 |
Q: I have a blower from a built in air conditioner from my dad's office. He gave it to me when the unit ...
A: Ben, If you cannot get to me on allexperts use service@emrrepair.com amd put 208PSC motor problem ...
|
| 220v verses 110v on 12000btu ac | 6/26/2007 |
Q: which is more cost effective? Can you show me the formula for figuring this out?
A: John, apples to apples if the exact device has the option of being set for 110 or 220 the 220 is ...
|
| electrical problem | 6/26/2007 |
Q: I live in a rented house which seems to have very outdated wiring to it! I have now had to seal off ...
A: Nikki, I don't know where the visible wires are? In the socket in the ceiling or a fixture hanging ...
|
| Replacing an Old Incandescant Light Fixture with a New Halogen Fixture | 6/25/2007 |
Q: I am replacing a 1930's incandescent ceiling mount fixture with a new ceiling mount fixture that ...
A: Hal, Quite the configuration. You did a Terrific JOB of detail and description! OK first one of the ...
|
| xbox 360 usb fan electrical interference | 6/25/2007 |
Q: Bought a laptop usb fan (simple usb adapter on a stalk with a soft blade fan) to plug into the ...
A: James, Thank you for the very kind words. You have done about everything that makes good sense to ...
|
| wiring a 240 volt receptacle from a 5 wire junction box? | 6/25/2007 |
Q: 2 black hot, 2 white neutral, 1 ground. I am setting up a 220-240v Is this possible? Where do the ...
A: I am missing something here. You had two blacks, two whites and one green and got 240? Then you ...
|
| motion sensing 3-way wall switches | 6/23/2007 |
Q: I am trying to install two motion sensing 3-way wall switches to control a hall light. Here is what ...
A: Don Beck can answer this one in about two seconds. If he is not available write me back and I will ...
|
| 220v 4 prong 30A twist lock to 3 prong plug. | 6/20/2007 |
Q: I have a concession trailer that is wired with a 30 amp 220 volt 4 prong twist lock plug. I need to ...
A: Actually the generator needs a chassis ground making it four wire also. What you are going to do is ...
|
| pool pump 120 twist connector testing | 6/20/2007 |
Q: I have an above ground pool with a gfi breaker going to a 1 hp pool pump. I believe the pump is ...
A: Jay, I copied and pasted that e-mail address and got a bounce back. So here is my answer. First ...
|
| ceiling fan has switched itself on! | 6/20/2007 |
Q: My top-floor flat's kitchen extractor (linked to a light) does occasionally let in the rain - not ...
A: Call an electrician if you switched off the main. I am assuming that once you reset the main the ...
|
| Arc Faults | 6/19/2007 |
Q: The inspector determined the rac fault breaker in bedroom is not working. What does he mean and how ...
A: Chris, I am not sure what an rac fault breaker is in a bedroom. Are we talking a GFCI for maybe a ...
|
| Ceiling Fan w/ Remote | 6/18/2007 |
Q: Rick, I am installing a ceiling fan that came with a remote control transmitter. I would prefer to ...
A: The remote came with only controls for the light? That seems odd. But if so I am not sure what ...
|
| voltage | 6/18/2007 |
Q: I am taking an electrical course & have been asked to answer the following: If operating equipment ...
A: Mark, Actually we do. On the residential side you barely see any 480, on the industrial side you ...
|
| electrical problem in den | 6/16/2007 |
Q: Turned on my stereo, heard a high pitched sound. everything in the room goes out. no breakers ...
A: I lost track, but I hope I responded to the right Paul. If you found the bad outlet we should be ...
|
| electrical problem in den | 6/16/2007 |
Q: Turned on my stereo, heard a high pitched sound. everything in the room goes out. no breakers ...
A: Paul, Thank you for the kind words and taking the time to fill out the rating thing, I appreciate ...
|
| DPDT switch for a generator | 6/16/2007 |
Q: I recently consulted an electrician about installing a transfer switch so that I can switch from the ...
A: Kris, You said you wanted to switch from mains to generator power for all circuits. Now we are ...
|
| Location Of Switch | 6/15/2007 |
Q: Fan swith Zing Ear ZE-208S that controlls speed of a fan has broken threads, but operates. Home ...
A: Robert, Not knowing Hampton Bay, I have limited specific information. Is this the pull chain ...
|
| ground stake | 6/15/2007 |
Q: Can I pull out / relocate ground stake currently "grounding" electric box, cable & phone? What are ...
A: NO! it is as important as the transformer feeding the house. Ground stakes are often mistaken as an ...
|
| AC for walk-in cooler | 6/14/2007 |
Q: Interesting question for you. We are a remote Alaska fishing lodge. We are installing a ...
A: Jason, I found a diagram for a Friedrich window unit. The three leads were red black and blue. But ...
|
| burning smell | 6/14/2007 |
Q: i just installed 2 new fans in my bedrooms. they have a burning grease smell to them when they are ...
A: Nathan, NO not really, they should have ball bearings of some sort in them and the bearing grease ...
|
| motor testing | 6/12/2007 |
Q: I have a 3 phase motor for a pump, i also have a megger tester, If i isolate, and disconnect the ...
A: Michael, Good question, yes isolate incoming power. If you have a 460 volt motor with three leads ...
|
| light switch works when it wants | 6/10/2007 |
Q: So i have one of those motion senser light behind my house. I works when it wants. I usually have to ...
A: Pat, A motion sensor behind your house. On what? A pole or on your house over a door? Can you get ...
|
| a/c | 6/9/2007 |
Q: cam i put 2 a/c on one fuse?? can 2 a/c run on a single wire?? that goes to the fuse box??
A: NO Never protect two devices with one fuse. The fuse or breaker also protects the wire from over ...
|
| Wiring thermostat | 6/7/2007 |
Q: I am attempting to wire a Honeywell RTH6300 thermostat to my heat pump/AC. The old stat is a ...
A: Bob, Great to hear. this is a really tough one to figure out using colors and not letters. Did they ...
|
| insufficient power to receptacle | 6/6/2007 |
Q: I have 3 bathrooms all connected to the same circuit. A CFI receptacle is in the garage and wired ...
A: Peter you are almost there. send the wiring diagram to my office service@emrrepair.com In the mean ...
|
| insufficient power to receptacle | 6/6/2007 |
Q: I have 3 bathrooms all connected to the same circuit. A CFI receptacle is in the garage and wired ...
A: Peter, no that is OK I thought you would come back with that. So we have an OK circuit to the ...
|
| insufficient power to receptacle | 6/5/2007 |
Q: I have 3 bathrooms all connected to the same circuit. A CFI receptacle is in the garage and wired ...
A: Peter, Actually more discoveries: Volts at GFCI is 115 Black to white 115, black to ground =0 ...
|
| insufficient power to receptacle | 6/5/2007 |
Q: I have 3 bathrooms all connected to the same circuit. A CFI receptacle is in the garage and wired ...
A: Peter, Yes I do have some more. Have the bathroom outlets ever worked with no GFCI? Bare wires ...
|
| generator wiring | 6/4/2007 |
Q: i asked a question earlier. this is what i want to build ...
A: Evan, I see it. You want to build this extension cord with the box on the end? It looks to me like ...
|
| Emergency generator wiring 1 of 2 breakers that use a common white wire | 6/4/2007 |
Q: Wiring a breaker into a manual transfer switch that has a common with another breaker cause any ...
A: Frank, it would be a better world if we could get another 10 to think like you. No such thing as a ...
|
| insufficient power to receptacle | 6/4/2007 |
Q: I have 3 bathrooms all connected to the same circuit. A CFI receptacle is in the garage and wired ...
A: Peter, Maybe. You have now wired direct to the remaining outlets and each shows 55 volts. ...
|
| Problem with my Home Generator | 6/4/2007 |
Q: I recently hooked my house to a Guardian 16 kW Air-Cooled Standby Generator. I had it ...
A: Chris, I know this is a terrific pain in the butt, but you will need to resolve it. Same advice, ...
|
| repair power cord for pond motor | 6/3/2007 |
Q: While cutting some roots out of my pond, I cut into the power cord for the pump. What is a safe way ...
A: Mike, Depending on what it is, either an expensive pump or a replacable pump, the best way is to ...
|
| 2HP Single Phase CSCPM | 6/3/2007 |
Q: We have referenced motor on a commerical automotive paint booth. Ir is used to pull air from the ...
A: Jim, I appreciate the kind words, and there is no need to take up your time with more on me UNLESS ...
|
| insufficient power to receptacle | 6/2/2007 |
Q: I have 3 bathrooms all connected to the same circuit. A CFI receptacle is in the garage and wired ...
A: Peter, You have 55 volts at each? Something is not wired correctly, or you have one hell of a ...
|
| insufficient power to receptacle | 6/2/2007 |
Q: I have 3 bathrooms all connected to the same circuit. A CFI receptacle is in the garage and wired ...
A: Peter, You are a trouble shooter already. Somewhere you are dropping voltage it seems and maybe a ...
|
| Wiring thermostat | 6/1/2007 |
Q: I am attempting to wire a Honeywell RTH6300 thermostat to my heat pump/AC. The old stat is a ...
A: Bob, Try this to bypass the three days. Will Bob, All I can pull up on the Honeywell Website ...
|
| insufficient power to receptacle | 6/1/2007 |
Q: I have 3 bathrooms all connected to the same circuit. A CFI receptacle is in the garage and wired ...
A: Peter, Sounds like the GFCI is the Culprit. Get a regular outlet and replace the GFCI with it. ...
|
| Changing from 4 prong to 3 prong on dryer... | 5/31/2007 |
Q: I'm changing from 4 prong to 3 prong on dryer...and one of the nuts of the nuts to get the cord off ...
A: Dennis, They certainly don't give anyone any room to work in. You're taking a four prong cord off ...
|
| WIRING MY 240V. AIR COMPRESSOR SWITCH | 5/30/2007 |
Q: I bought a 60gal. air compressor and the heavy duty extension cord to go with it. Problem is: I ...
A: You bought a 60 gallon compressor and they sold you a cord and no instructions on how to wire it? ...
|
| installing a 30 amp oven to a 60 amp circuit | 5/30/2007 |
Q: what kind of damage can a 60 amp circuit do to a 30 amp oven and what should have been done to ...
A: Grace, This is going to be complicated. First a 60 amp circuit is CAPACITY. In other words it would ...
|
| AIR COMPRESSOR 2 STAGE WIRING | 5/30/2007 |
Q: Just bought a Sear 2 Stage, 60gal. Single Phase 240/60/1 Air Compressor. My problem please; I ...
A: Ray, Don't get me going on the crap that we the public end up with. I have never in my life seen ...
|
| wiring a 240 volt receptacle from a 5 wire junction box? | 5/29/2007 |
Q: 2 black hot, 2 white neutral, 1 ground. I am setting up a 220-240v Is this possible? Where do the ...
A: Mike, Are you trying to add two 110 volt circuits, with two hot and two neutral and 1 ground and ...
|
| Door Bell - lighted push button issue | 5/29/2007 |
Q: I have an electronic door bell that can be set to play various tunes. I attempted to replaced the ...
A: Tom, The original was an electronic door bell? And it was not the type with a light? Now you ...
|
| 220 wiring | 5/28/2007 |
Q: I used 12/2 solid copper to run 15 feet of wire to make a outlet for using a welder. (from service ...
A: Jesse, Your 12 wire should be OK for the outlet. The extension cord should be OK, it depends on ...
|
| ceiling fan lights | 5/27/2007 |
Q: I just noticed today the lights on my ceiling fan were not working. I replaced the bulbs and still ...
A: Katherine, Are the lights and fan controlled from the pull cords or from a wall switch or both? ...
|
| electrical cords | 5/26/2007 |
Q: i have 2 questions. when i plug my cell phone charger into my outlet in the kitchen it gives a ...
A: Lori, Is the phone on the charger when you plug it in? Try it both ways. I doubt you have a ...
|
| converters | 5/25/2007 |
Q: Have a sidewalk lighting system of 6 lights converted from 120v a/c to 12v d/c using standard 12v ...
A: James, Can you measure the DC output? Look for the thermal if the DC can be proven out of the ...
|
| dayton 1/2 hp cap start motor SPARKS | 5/24/2007 |
Q: I have a Dayton 5k455b 1/2hp cap start 1725rpm motor that I got at a junk store- looks brand new. ...
A: I hope you got my answer to this, but if not in short here it is again. Nice job on taking the ...
|
| Ceiling Fan Installation in Very Old House | 5/24/2007 |
Q: I have a very old house (70+) years old. I am trying to install a ceiling fan in the basement. ...
A: Thomas, The voltage meter won't tell you which is which. But you have wired it correctly. The black ...
|
| ceiling fan hum | 5/24/2007 |
Q: Why would a ceiling fan hum at high and medium speed and not at low speed? What can I do about it?
A: Bam, Not a personal question, but what price category fan do you have? If it is less than a $50.00 ...
|
| Problem with my Home Generator | 5/23/2007 |
Q: I recently hooked my house to a Guardian 16 kW Air-Cooled Standby Generator. I had it ...
A: Chris, Something is wrong, way wrong. The generator seems to be a really nice unit, and you have ...
|
| Ceiling Fan Installation in Very Old House | 5/23/2007 |
Q: I have a very old house (70+) years old. I am trying to install a ceiling fan in the basement. ...
A: Theresa, Don't panic, the black is the motor for the fan and the blue is the light. White is ...
|
| Wiring 30A Angle plug | 5/23/2007 |
Q: I have a Felder (German) Combination Woodworking machine which requires a 30A 240V plug (single ...
A: Roger, the colors are from Felder and without a print or diagram they have scheme. There is no ...
|
| condo central smoke alarm | 5/23/2007 |
Q: I just moved into an old condo that has been renovated. It has 2 central smoke alarms that buzz ...
A: Suzy, What are you burning every time you turn on the stove? I am KIDDING. Explain this to me. ...
|
| Shallow Well Jet Pump | 5/22/2007 |
Q: I have a well for watering the lawn and the pump motor for the system has stopped working. Actually, ...
A: John, If you have a motor shop in town it might be worth a trip to get an estimate. Being 20 years ...
|
| Electronics connected between 2 outlets, shorts them out. | 5/22/2007 |
Q: I'm renting in an old house in St. Paul, Minnesota. In my bedroom there are 2 outlets on opposite ...
A: Antone, Can you plug both in the same outlet with an extension cord for a short test? One outlet ...
|
| Hot Tub | 5/22/2007 |
Q: Osgood, I recently purchased an old home with and existing hot tub that we recently removed. We ...
A: Tom, You are fine, there is no problem. Now you have this one breaker wired up. I lost track of the ...
|
| Brownout protection | 5/21/2007 |
Q: I live in an area that experiences occasional brownouts. I have a water system pump, a pool pump ...
A: Yes, They are called UPS or uninterruptible power supplies. Go the APC web-site. For your whole ...
|
| Hot Tub | 5/21/2007 |
Q: Osgood, I recently purchased an old home with and existing hot tub that we recently removed. We ...
A: Excellent, You see the problem I see from here? I can't see what you have. But, it sounds like you ...
|
| wiring a 10 bulb light fixutre from scratch | 5/21/2007 |
Q: I am trying to wire a homemade lamp that will use 10 12 Volt Christmas minilights using the sockets ...
A: Kristin, You want to take 10 lights and wire them in parallel [each side of each light to each side ...
|
| A/C Wiring | 5/21/2007 |
Q: Can i use two 12-2AWG romax wires on a 40 amp circuit breaker to run to an A/C unit. This is ...
A: Gary, It does make sense. And I see no reason if your paralled the two 12s there would be a ...
|
| Attic Fan Troubles | 5/20/2007 |
Q: about a week ago the wife said she heard a humming noise in the attic - I went up to investigate and ...
A: Tim, Don't rip any roof up yet. Is it a belted drive? Or a direct drive? The list of ...
|
| wiring | 5/20/2007 |
Q: I have a dimmer switch on the wall and I hooked up a fan w/light to it. It makes a loud buzzing ...
A: Thomas, First, a light dimmer will NOT control a fan or motor, that is the hum you hear. If you ...
|
| problem with switch that controls new vanity bath bar light | 5/19/2007 |
Q: Power comes to the switch, via a 3 wire. Fixture connection has 2 wires. After switch there is a ...
A: Billy, What is different from the old light and the new one? The switch somehow is not making and ...
|
| dayton 1/2 hp cap start motor SPARKS | 5/19/2007 |
Q: I have a Dayton 5k455b 1/2hp cap start 1725rpm motor that I got at a junk store- looks brand new. ...
A: Brian, On an open type single phase, a spark can be seen sometimres when the stationary contacts ...
|
| Relay | 5/19/2007 |
Q: I have Marathon motor MQP 48C17D2042L P Type SCS singl ph, 60 Hz 1/4 hp RPM 1725 115/208-230 V. I'm ...
A: Is the thermal on this motor a button type that you can reset? How critical is the thermal, what ...
|
| A/C Wiring | 5/19/2007 |
Q: Can i use two 12-2AWG romax wires on a 40 amp circuit breaker to run to an A/C unit. This is ...
A: Gary, You have two 12/2 in parallel on a 40 amp breaker? How far is the run and what is the total ...
|
| what size wire to barn | 5/19/2007 |
Q: I would like to run power to my barn which is 100' from my house what size wire would I need & what ...
A: Donald, you have a good question. How much stuff are you going to use in the barn? This is just ...
|
| CO/Smoke detectors | 5/18/2007 |
Q: In a two family house interconnected CO and smoke detectors will be required. Each apartment will ...
A: I replied directly. I forgot to tell you that the fie department came by and inspected my shop last ...
|
| lighting fixture trouble | 5/18/2007 |
Q: Having difficulty installing a new dining room overhead light. 1973 era home with copper wire. The ...
A: If you read my introductory thing, I have no faith it ever worked. You have to remember that from ...
|
| Ceiling Fan Remote Wiring Question | 5/17/2007 |
Q: Will, Don referred me to you. I hope you can help. I am installing a ceiling fan remote for a ...
A: Vern, your comments were much too kind, and I needed to keep updated with the latest and greatest ...
|
| 100 Amp vs 200 Amp | 5/17/2007 |
Q: I am currently building a 1200 square foot 2 bedroom, 2 bath place that I originally planned on ...
A: The best possible thing you can do is to get two to three bids. Get them for the 100 amp option and ...
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| Hot Tub | 5/17/2007 |
Q: Osgood, I recently purchased an old home with and existing hot tub that we recently removed. We ...
A: You have more conductors than you need and described, you said you had 10/2 UF with ground, that ...
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| Watts calculation | 5/17/2007 |
Q: If a heater element is rated 2000watts at 240 volts what is the wattage at 230 volts
A: Colin, depending on what kind of element it won't vary much but you can work it as a linear ...
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| there is no stupid question | 5/17/2007 |
Q: I work for a small electric company in delaware and my boss seems to think that in europe that the ...
A: You are correct, and I think I replied to a question like this not too long ago. First you are ...
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| GFCI problem in the bathroom | 5/16/2007 |
Q: I am seeing a weird problem, the outlets in the bathroom doesn't work when the lights are turned on, ...
A: Srini, Any work or new installations lately? To just discover the outlets fail when the lights are ...
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| Low Voltage Readings effecting equipment | 5/16/2007 |
Q: I used a Watt's Up Power Analyzer which has read Min. Voltage of 95.8 recently. Could this one ...
A: Howard, 95 to 96 volts on a 115/120 residential or commercial circuit is too low. I can't say it ...
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| reversing direction of electric motor | 5/15/2007 |
Q: I recently purchased a new motor for my band saw and when a friend saw how much I paid for it, he ...
A: control, The connection that says "control" means that this motor belonged on something that took ...
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| compressor motor help!!! | 5/15/2007 |
Q: Will, I have created a problem with an electric motor used to power a compressor. It is 2 HP, ...
A: Billy, The red reset button on motors are sometimes a little piece of junk. I have seen one ...
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| compressor motor help!!! | 5/14/2007 |
Q: Will, I have created a problem with an electric motor used to power a compressor. It is 2 HP, ...
A: Billy, Let me get this correct. You had the dual voltage motor running on 115 volt, connected for ...
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| reversing direction of electric motor | 5/14/2007 |
Q: I recently purchased a new motor for my band saw and when a friend saw how much I paid for it, he ...
A: Cayt, You have the connection diagram for voltage. It looks like your question got cut off. IF the ...
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| bathroom light fixutre wiring | 5/13/2007 |
Q: My home was built in 1956. I am attempting to replace a light fixture in the bathroom. There is only ...
A: Yes, You are removing the long metal box, ballast and and all? And install an entire new fixture ...
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| bathroom light fixutre wiring | 5/13/2007 |
Q: My home was built in 1956. I am attempting to replace a light fixture in the bathroom. There is only ...
A: Renee, First of all the ground or copper wire on the new fixture does not touch or wire up to ...
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| Possible defective NEW electrical wall switches. | 5/12/2007 |
Q: Will, We have just within the past two years had an upgrade on our electrical wiring throughout ...
A: Wayne, If you hear these sounds they are either mechanical or possible that you are hearing an arc. ...
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| Hot Tub | 5/11/2007 |
Q: Osgood, I recently purchased an old home with and existing hot tub that we recently removed. We ...
A: Tom, All outlets are different so I called an RV supply house. They had no clue so I called the ...
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| Problem with Casablanca ceiling fan | 5/10/2007 |
Q: I have a Casablanca ceiling fan with the light fixture, and a wall mounted control with push button ...
A: It quit clunking and started working in both directions like a Swiss watch? How weird. You might ...
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| cooktop ignition | 5/10/2007 |
Q: my whirlpool cooktop won;t light. I called the technician and he says that the problem is with the ...
A: Yes. but how come the voltage is so low? The technician put it in for you and wired it up to a low ...
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| Hot Tub | 5/10/2007 |
Q: Osgood, I recently purchased an old home with and existing hot tub that we recently removed. We ...
A: How much current total for the hot tub? If it is within or under the 10 wire and the run is within ...
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| Vent Fan on dryer | 5/10/2007 |
Q: I have a vent fan on the dryer since the outside run is greater than 15'. I am using a pressure ...
A: It is a 110 volt fan I assume, so can you find 110 in the dryer that is on in any mode? If so wire ...
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| Re-using electric motors | 5/10/2007 |
Q: Would it be possible to use a 110v .96amp ceiling fan motor to build a horizontal metal cutting band ...
A: Jeff, Sorry, the ceiling fan motor is a low torque permanent split type motor that will do nothing ...
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| DIY project idea | 5/10/2007 |
Q: I've been wanting to get a horizontal band saw to cut metal with, but of course am sometimes a bit ...
A: You will struggle with even the dryer motor. Same thing, those are meant to run a flywheel load not ...
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| Ground wires | 5/9/2007 |
Q: I am installing a new light fixture in my bathroom. There are 2 sets of black, white and exposed ...
A: Larry, I confused you sorry. I knew what you meant about the plastic box. What you need to do is to ...
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| Ground wires | 5/9/2007 |
Q: I am installing a new light fixture in my bathroom. There are 2 sets of black, white and exposed ...
A: Larry, You are doing good. The wires should go on the new like the old. If the bare grounds were ...
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| Problem with Casablanca ceiling fan | 5/9/2007 |
Q: I have a Casablanca ceiling fan with the light fixture, and a wall mounted control with push button ...
A: Inserts are sometimes used on the blades. Some fans have "inserts" in the middle of the blade to ...
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| Problem with Casablanca ceiling fan | 5/9/2007 |
Q: I have a Casablanca ceiling fan with the light fixture, and a wall mounted control with push button ...
A: NT, Clunking sound in any speed in the opposite direction? When it shuts off on the third speed, ...
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| thermal overload on new motor | 5/8/2007 |
Q: I have been in maintenance field for 8 years now. Some basic electrical qualifications and HVAC. ...
A: Bill, This is something that happens all the time. Did you order a motor by EXACT BRAND model ...
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| wiring new cooktop in older home | 5/8/2007 |
Q: We have a new cooktop in our 1958 home and the electrician who came out to wire it wouldn't because ...
A: Patricia, I cannot tell you if you are grandfathered or not. Different locals have different use of ...
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| spa pump replacement | 5/8/2007 |
Q: need to replace dual speed to single speed pump got from friend brand new ao smith what do i do with ...
A: Randi, the new single speed has a red wire from the motor that the two speed does not? Then you say ...
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| smoke detector lines and emergency lites | 5/8/2007 |
Q: OK to tap into a line dedicated [thus far] to hard wired smoke detectors to get juice for another ...
A: Bob, Home security is not my area, but circuits are circuits. If there is enough current capacity ...
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| hooking up my dryer | 5/7/2007 |
Q: Im hoping you can help me, I have a new breaker box and was trying to hook up my dryer again. The ...
A: Kristi, I am assuming you have done this before? If there is a shadow of a doubt get some help, ...
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| spa tripping GFCI | 5/6/2007 |
Q: I have a five year old spa. It just started giving me a GFCI problem. It heats by "heat transfer", ...
A: I have a pool and understand, getting help after you own anything is near impossible. The bolts on ...
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| spa tripping GFCI | 5/6/2007 |
Q: I have a five year old spa. It just started giving me a GFCI problem. It heats by "heat transfer", ...
A: I understand, got a lot better picture. Now you have really amazed me. The motor started without a ...
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| hot tub electrical | 5/6/2007 |
Q: I've got a hot tub set up in my backyard. I borrowed from a friend a glorified 220V extension cord ...
A: Suzy, What is a glorified 220 volt extension cord? What you will need is to follow local code and ...
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| spa tripping GFCI | 5/6/2007 |
Q: I have a five year old spa. It just started giving me a GFCI problem. It heats by "heat transfer", ...
A: It trips the new GFCI also? And you say it is tripping when it shuts on. Meaning off or something ...
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| Whole House Fan Motor | 5/5/2007 |
Q: Will, House fan died, power thru the two-speed switch up to the motor. No hum or anything. There's a ...
A: You have power through the switch and nothing happens with the motor? If the capacitor was shorted, ...
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| cord prong broke off in outlet... | 5/5/2007 |
Q: Hey, Interior extention cord prong stuck in outlet How do I remove it safely?
A: Dave, is it just one of the prongs? The ground or the power prong? Is it broke off flush with ...
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| electric motor | 5/3/2007 |
Q: Have a small 1/4 HP used inside a duck cleaning machine A new service cord was installed by owner ...
A: OK, Now you will have a new motor and new cord. If it is the motor you have two good cords. Once it ...
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| dimmer switch use? | 5/3/2007 |
Q: Silly perhaps but can I use a dimmer switch to control my model train layout? I have a transformer ...
A: I left out a word. train contollers are expensive hear but generic parts should NOT ...
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| sewing machine motor | 5/3/2007 |
Q: some how I'm not able to figure out which of the 4 wires than come from the motor shall I connect to ...
A: I got involved with a sewing machine motor not too long ago. So the foot switch does reverse and ...
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| 220 volt wiring | 5/2/2007 |
Q: I know this question is redundent but i have a 3 wire outlet I need to plug in a new 4 wire dryer ...
A: By code you need to run a new wire to the entrance, separating the neutral and ground. If you do it ...
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| dimmer switch use? | 5/2/2007 |
Q: Silly perhaps but can I use a dimmer switch to control my model train layout? I have a transformer ...
A: Not silly at all and you can do this, but not a dimmer switch. Model railroads use a rheostat, that ...
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| Unknown reason for power bill to triple | 5/2/2007 |
Q: We are not doing any thing different. For some reason our power bill tripled this month. Is there ...
A: Jo, What happened? Find anything out? I would really be interested in knowing and see if others are ...
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| "Flat Cable" under carpet tiles | 5/1/2007 |
Q: There was an answer in the forum to one of my questions: "There is a specific type of wiring that ...
A: Check this out.......price is up there. ...
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| electric motor | 5/1/2007 |
Q: Have a small 1/4 HP used inside a duck cleaning machine A new service cord was installed by owner ...
A: WELL color is a difficult thing. If the motor lead was run down the green conductor of the power ...
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| Bathroom exhaust fan/heater/light combo | 5/1/2007 |
Q: I just moved into a new house built in 1984. One of our bathrooms had a combo exhaust ...
A: Jason. Great question, well written and nice diagnostic work on your part. What might have ...
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| Three phase to two phase welder changeover | 5/1/2007 |
Q: I have a PowCon welder that is designed for 440 or 220 operating. The 440 is three phase, but the ...
A: Mike it is always a pain trying write out a problem. So many little things to remember to mention. ...
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| electric motor | 5/1/2007 |
Q: Have a small 1/4 HP used inside a duck cleaning machine A new service cord was installed by owner ...
A: William, cool name! So the spinning brush machine had a bad cord. Owner of what? Your boss owner? ...
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| 4 prong outlet | 5/1/2007 |
Q: I upgraded my dryer cord this weekend to a 4 prong because the new house I purchased was only ...
A: How is it going? Anything happen and hopefully to your liking? What has the thirty day and what ...
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| Fan Motors | 4/30/2007 |
Q: I am an "expert" in the elctrical site also, and I have found your insight on motors awesome! So, ...
A: This is quite the unexpected honor. It appears you are the top of the heap of experts and have read ...
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| Three phase to two phase welder changeover | 4/30/2007 |
Q: I have a PowCon welder that is designed for 440 or 220 operating. The 440 is three phase, but the ...
A: Mike, You have three phase available? Or is the plug the welder plug? What kind of conversion are ...
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| Double wall oven / cooktop | 4/30/2007 |
Q: We are currently remodeling and we are putting in a double oven and cooktop. The appliance man at ...
A: David, I applaud your questioning of a salesman! Especially the grad students that work at Home ...
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| Electrical Wiring. | 4/30/2007 |
Q: Will- I purchased a 240v Hot Tub and I want to install it in an out building by my pond. I am ...
A: Michael, cost cutting with electrical has only killed 4 people I knew personally. But let's say ...
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| outside plug | 4/30/2007 |
Q: hey i have a plug that is for my washer which is a higher voltage then the normal 120v can i take ...
A: Graham, what do you mean you have a higher than normal voltage plug? Tell me about that, how do you ...
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| 4 prong outlet | 4/30/2007 |
Q: I upgraded my dryer cord this weekend to a 4 prong because the new house I purchased was only ...
A: I adjusted up the number of questions so you have some space to get back to me. I worry with you ...
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| electric welder question | 4/29/2007 |
Q: i have a chance to get a electric welder for the cheap but it operates on 480 volts 1 phase. Is ...
A: John, Yes, a couple ways. First is that some welders offer a conversion voltage kit, call or go to ...
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| IR 3PH TO SINGLE | 4/29/2007 |
Q: I bought a 5hp IR 3 phase Air Compressor like others and am converting to single. New motor, and ...
A: By the way not shame on you, it happens all the time. I am looking for a diagram for something ...
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| Need help splitting fan/light switch into two separate switches | 4/29/2007 |
Q: Help... I have a ceiling fan/light combo(no pull chains) that is controlled buy a single Hampton ...
A: The red that is taped off should be up at the fan and a switch leg, the split is i the "fancy switch ...
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| IR 3PH TO SINGLE | 4/28/2007 |
Q: I bought a 5hp IR 3 phase Air Compressor like others and am converting to single. New motor, and ...
A: Why not get a 5HP single to three phase static drive? Not going to cost any more than buying another ...
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| hot tub tripping breaker | 4/28/2007 |
Q: We have a portable outdoor hot tub. The pump and motor are one peice. We just had it refurbished ...
A: Randy, You don't want to hear this but the motor was rebuilt incorrectly. The dragging noise is ...
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| Installing electric Tankless to double pole 60 amp | 4/28/2007 |
Q: I currently have a tanked electric 40 gallon water heater installed on a double pole 30 amp circuit ...
A: No. The breaker protects many things one of them the wire in the circuit. You will need new wire, ...
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| Ceiling Fan | 4/27/2007 |
Q: What do I have to do to stop the fan from humming, when on?
A: Carol, many ceiling fans hum, especially on the lower speeds. Sometimes it is impossible as it is ...
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| miss connect thermostat wire cost stop working | 4/27/2007 |
Q: I tried to install a remote control thermostat and I think I miss wired the connection and now it is ...
A: Hey Fred, nice job. the burnt from yellow to black is not an issue so far. Did you clean it at all? ...
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| power on and off breaker doesn't trip | 4/27/2007 |
Q: I have a confusing situation at my home. I've got a circuit that randomly seems to go on and off. ...
A: Well not exactly the off on kind of thing you are talking about, but fix it. get your neutral where ...
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| Converting a ceiling fan from a one switch control to a separate control for light and fan. | 4/26/2007 |
Q: I recently installed a ceiling fan in my home. The wall light panel in the bedroom has two ...
A: More than likely. if you had two switches on the wall before and have two hot or black wires from ...
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| miss connect thermostat wire cost stop working | 4/26/2007 |
Q: I tried to install a remote control thermostat and I think I miss wired the connection and now it is ...
A: So what did you find? It is difficult to do this kind of trouble shooting with simply words and ...
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| 277 WIRING | 4/26/2007 |
Q: WILL, I WANTED TO CLARIFY WIRING FOR LIGHTING @ 277V. I DON'T HAVE ANY EXPERIENCE WITH THIS VOLTAGE ...
A: Jim, 277 is the neutral to ground connection on the 480 three phase circuit, producing a 277 volt ...
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| Motor | 4/26/2007 |
Q: I have a single phase motor with no hp rating,How can I determine this.I belive it draws 20-30 ...
A: 20 to 30 is a big spread. Loaded or unloaded current? Depending on speed an unloaded motor can ...
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| Outdoor light wiring with 2 motion sensors | 4/25/2007 |
Q: I have a long stretch-about 100'- of outdoor lights. They are now controlled by one switch on the ...
A: I would take a look at something like X10 or smarthome. They are using RF signals instead of hard ...
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| miss connect thermostat wire cost stop working | 4/25/2007 |
Q: I tried to install a remote control thermostat and I think I miss wired the connection and now it is ...
A: You removed a thermostat and then installed a new one with remote. Then you replaced the old unit ...
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| Fridge cutting-out | 4/25/2007 |
Q: I have a medium size refrigerator that cuts out by itself about 4 or 5 times a day, possibly more. ...
A: Wow! Well I hate to say it but the last three major appliances I have purchased had some sort of ...
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| Ceiling Fan Remote issue after power outage | 4/24/2007 |
Q: I have 4 bedrooms with ceiling fans all controlled by seperate remotes. On sunday we had a power ...
A: You probably have diagnosed it correctly. Are the receiving modules interchangeable without a lot of ...
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| Hot tub wiring | 4/24/2007 |
Q: I have a 110v Cal Spa hot tub, about 8-10 years old, in my backyard. Rats got inside and chewed ...
A: Kim, It will. Just mark which is which. Color some masking tape with a magic marker. Then red to ...
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| Hooking up a 5 h.p. phase converter | 4/23/2007 |
Q: I have a vertical milling machine(3 h.p.) and a 5 h.p. rotary converter. I need to know what size ...
A: Jeff, Instead of writing this out, check out this site: ...
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| 3 way switches and wiring | 4/23/2007 |
Q: I have just replaced two sets of old 3 ways switches - aluminum wiring, maybe in the late 40's. ...
A: I understand the walking part and truly I have found most things are the simplest solution, but we ...
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| power on and off breaker doesn't trip | 4/23/2007 |
Q: I have a confusing situation at my home. I've got a circuit that randomly seems to go on and off. ...
A: Jonah, Whatever is going on needs fixed ASAP, anything becoming energized on it's own is no good. ...
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| CO/Smoke detectors | 4/23/2007 |
Q: In a two family house interconnected CO and smoke detectors will be required. Each apartment will ...
A: And the other side of the 9 volt battery is interfaced with common. So that makes sense. Alarms are ...
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| 3 romex in a gfi | 4/23/2007 |
Q: I was reading this Q/A abot 3 romex in a plug but was wondering if it is the same for a gfi?? please ...
A: I am right here. So is it wired like the old plug? Except for two of the whites? How did you figure ...
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| 3 romex in a gfi | 4/23/2007 |
Q: I was reading this Q/A abot 3 romex in a plug but was wondering if it is the same for a gfi?? please ...
A: I think I understand. There was an existing outlet correct? You should be able to put the white and ...
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| Hot tub wiring | 4/23/2007 |
Q: I have a 110v Cal Spa hot tub, about 8-10 years old, in my backyard. Rats got inside and chewed ...
A: Kim, If it is in good condition don't scrap it. Any electrical supply house can get you the wire, ...
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| Rewiring front door light | 4/22/2007 |
Q: I have an idea to rewire my front door light. Currently the light turns on and off according to a ...
A: Jacob x10.com but be aware of the package specials. They have everything you need, but they tend ...
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| CO/Smoke detectors | 4/22/2007 |
Q: In a two family house interconnected CO and smoke detectors will be required. Each apartment will ...
A: That figures. One of my pet peeves is somebody sells something and then can't tell the person who ...
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| Ceiling Fan with 5 Wires, No Switches | 4/22/2007 |
Q: Don...Fan has a light, assume it's multi-speed. Wires...Black, White, Red, Blue, Gray. Originally ...
A: Charles, my best guess is this: black hot white neutral blue light red speed choice gray other ...
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| wireing electric motor | 4/22/2007 |
Q: I have a Sears 220 volt air compressor and I heard that a guy can rewire it so that it plugs into ...
A: Bruce, I forgot to mention, that the dual voltage connection diagram may be on the Back of the cover ...
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| Electrical issues in my home | 4/22/2007 |
Q: I have a 2 year old home with several electrical issues I am concerned about. First, the most recent ...
A: George you got some stuff going on. Lets make this easy first> If it is under warranty, make a ...
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| Replacing Thermostat | 4/22/2007 |
Q: I have a White-Rodgers 1A10-651 Line voltage heat-cool thermostat ...
A: Manav, No not really, White-rodgers is fine. Whatever you can get the best deal on. A high dollar ...
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| garage door | 4/21/2007 |
Q: I tried using my garage door opener this morning and the remote clicker would not work, so I ...
A: Chris, Maybe the receiver is bad? Maybe it means the code needs to be reset. Can you shutdown the ...
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| Installing a power cord to 50 amp breaker box | 4/21/2007 |
Q: I have a snow cone stand. It has a breaker box installed that contains a 50 amp breaker. We need to ...
A: Linda, The snow cone is operated on 220 volt, the breaker? is installed on the cone machine with 6 ...
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| Low Voltage damage | 4/21/2007 |
Q: We're having a debate in our RV club about wether or not we might damage our Elect. equipment if ...
A: I used motors as a quick example and NO LOW VOLTAGE DOES NOT MEAN THEY WILL SIMPLY NOT RUN. Motors ...
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| Low Voltage damage | 4/20/2007 |
Q: We're having a debate in our RV club about wether or not we might damage our Elect. equipment if ...
A: Ye say they could fry every electric motor in a everything you mentioned with low voltage. Low ...
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| Power going out only in Master Bedroom | 4/20/2007 |
Q: For about 10 days now, the power in my master bedroom goes out every night between 3am-4am (I then ...
A: Sharon this gets complicated. I ask about where what is because the breaker reacts to amperage by ...
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| Conduit fill restrictions | 4/20/2007 |
Q: How many 12 gage solids can be in a 3/4" conduit
A: What insulation? How long is the run? Controlling any kind of inductive load at the other end? Like ...
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| blown breaker | 4/20/2007 |
Q: the breaker to the dryer goes off with every wash after about 20 min of drying time nothing else ...
A: You got my questions about all electric dryer and the breaker rating? The question keeps coming ...
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| cytringan 3 phase welder | 4/20/2007 |
Q: The above welder (new to me) has 5 terminals for the input cable. The central one is clearly the ...
A: Jim, New welder to you but not new as in unused? No manual? three phase welder and 5 terminals, ...
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| Phone charging | 4/19/2007 |
Q: I hope you can help me? if you do not know the answer to my question will you be good enough to tell ...
A: You need to educate me again. I asked how you would split out the 110 volts in my last reply. I ...
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| Phone charging | 4/19/2007 |
Q: I hope you can help me? if you do not know the answer to my question will you be good enough to tell ...
A: Yes, you are correct. Breakers will deal with surges. But we aren't quite talking yet. You will be ...
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| Phone charging | 4/19/2007 |
Q: I hope you can help me? if you do not know the answer to my question will you be good enough to tell ...
A: OH< whoops I see. 240 is fine. It has a current rating on it. As long as the total charge at anyone ...
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| Phone charging | 4/18/2007 |
Q: I hope you can help me? if you do not know the answer to my question will you be good enough to tell ...
A: Hey Alan. So phones run the batteries down at concerts, like two and three hour concerts? People ...
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| Power going out only in Master Bedroom | 4/18/2007 |
Q: For about 10 days now, the power in my master bedroom goes out every night between 3am-4am (I then ...
A: Sharon, The right way to do this is to unplug one thing at a time in the room. Start with the ...
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| 3 phase 330 volt to 110 volt | 4/18/2007 |
Q: I have a large air compressor at the end of a long conduit run wired 3 phase 330 volt. 3 hot wires ...
A: OK that is better. First thing, take a look at this site: http://www.maxivolt.com/survey_manual.htm ...
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| ceiling fan wont run | 4/18/2007 |
Q: I have completely dissembled a non working 3 speed ceiling fan motor and find no broken or burnt ...
A: Did you get to line 8 of my last response? You will find that I agree with you 100%. Very nice ...
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| ceiling fan wont run | 4/18/2007 |
Q: I have completely dissembled a non working 3 speed ceiling fan motor and find no broken or burnt ...
A: I got the playing around with it mixed up with the complete disassembly. Nice job on the capacitor ...
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| GFCI Trips | 4/18/2007 |
Q: GFCI trips in approximately 30 seconds with no devices turned on or plugged in. Outlet previously ...
A: Here are three articles that may give you a clue, and these articles should be read anyway: ...
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| installing a gfi outlet into exsisting box with light and exhaust fan | 4/17/2007 |
Q: I'm trying to install a gfci outlet into the electrical box that already has the wiring for a light ...
A: Cheryl, take a look at this site: http://ecmweb.com/mag/electric_think_gfci/ This is a terrific ...
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| 3 phase 330 volt to 110 volt | 4/17/2007 |
Q: I have a large air compressor at the end of a long conduit run wired 3 phase 330 volt. 3 hot wires ...
A: John, 330 three phase? That is different. What and where does the 330 come from? I am just curious ...
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| Replacing a Metal Lathe Motor - Old Atlas Lathe | 4/17/2007 |
Q: I am replacing a very old Wagner 1/3 HP motor with a new Dayton 3K199 1/2 HP capacitor start motor. ...
A: Ron, Into the motor? I think you are meaning just any way to switch it on and off? If it is on a ...
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| Converting wiring of electric motor from 220v to 110v | 4/17/2007 |
Q: I need to convert an Ajax electric motor for a water pump that supplies water to my house from 220 ...
A: You did fine, but we are still short some information. I can tell it is a 56C Frame 1750RPM Class F ...
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| ceiling fan wont run | 4/17/2007 |
Q: I have completely dissembled a non working 3 speed ceiling fan motor and find no broken or burnt ...
A: I am impressed. So you had this thing all apart and running and now nothing but a hum? Each ...
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| Converting wiring of electric motor from 220v to 110v | 4/16/2007 |
Q: I need to convert an Ajax electric motor for a water pump that supplies water to my house from 220 ...
A: An Ajax motor, now wired for 220 or is it a 220 motor? Some are dual voltage some are not. There ...
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| light switch voltage not correct | 4/16/2007 |
Q: Light bulb went out. Light would not work after replacing bulb. Checked the voltage at the switch ...
A: I thought it was in the fixture. The problem is all the neutrals and other parallel circuits, when ...
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| meter mystery | 4/16/2007 |
Q: I live in the Philippines - land of the "not quite right." My air conditioner is a 3-phase unit ...
A: Wow, I had no idea electrical service was that outdated there. Pretty cool to have three phase ...
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| No power - Hot Contact Not Connected | 4/16/2007 |
Q: We currently have no power in our outdoor receptacles. My husband bought a tester and the results ...
A: Tina, If you bought the house through a Real Estate Company, they should be able to help you. They ...
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| My GE 3 phase, 220 volt motor | 4/16/2007 |
Q: so started a new question format. Thanks again for your response - the situation is more clear for ...
A: Michael, 1. My fault, I thought your motor was rated at 3 amps, my mistake. 3. The rating has no ...
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| No power - Hot Contact Not Connected | 4/15/2007 |
Q: We currently have no power in our outdoor receptacles. My husband bought a tester and the results ...
A: Tina, I take it they used to work? If so here is a couple things to look for. Many times an ...
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| 220 volt, 3 phase motor | 4/15/2007 |
Q: I know little about electrical wiring, but I am a machinist and am very handy. I have a GE 220 volt, ...
A: Michael, Thank you for the kind words and you are very welcome. Hell, you know more about this ...
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| Wiring a programmable switch | 4/15/2007 |
Q: I am replacing a standard switch with a programmable one. The switch operates one light; there is ...
A: That is it no doubt. That may be expensive to get that neutral down to where you need it. Do you ...
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| service upgrade | 4/15/2007 |
Q: I just bought an 80 year old house with an exsisting 100amp service. the wire looks like #2 with a ...
A: Rich, I guess people either try to be helpful or supportive or are clear out of their minds. Not ...
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| old electric motor | 4/15/2007 |
Q: there is no wiring diagram on cover of motor.It is a robbins&meyers 2 hp motor I think the model#is ...
A: Mark, Tell me about the wires out of the motor. Are they numbered, colored, or are any connected ...
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| Wiring a programmable switch | 4/15/2007 |
Q: I am replacing a standard switch with a programmable one. The switch operates one light; there is ...
A: Garrett, I am having a bit of trouble following all this. But I think the new switch directions are ...
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| 220 volt, 3 phase motor | 4/14/2007 |
Q: I know little about electrical wiring, but I am a machinist and am very handy. I have a GE 220 volt, ...
A: Michael, I doubt you have three phase to the house. You have single phase and running three phase ...
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| no power | 4/13/2007 |
Q: We have a camp with utility power, but we are at the end of the line and about a mile from anyone ...
A: Here is one site: [I have no affiliation with anyone on these kind of things! ...
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| light switch voltage not correct | 4/13/2007 |
Q: Light bulb went out. Light would not work after replacing bulb. Checked the voltage at the switch ...
A: Aluminum, yep you got it more than likely. But try and get on this ASAP. The day I cut the one ...
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| Home TIG Welder | 4/13/2007 |
Q: I just purchased a miller econotig for my home. I am waiting to have an outlet installed, but I was ...
A: Hey Matt, They should be posting questions to YOU! Thanks for the very kind words and votes and the ...
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| meter mystery | 4/13/2007 |
Q: I live in the Philippines - land of the "not quite right." My air conditioner is a 3-phase unit ...
A: John, http://www.ezmeter.com/wizard.html I have asked this question and got three different ...
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| light switch voltage not correct | 4/13/2007 |
Q: Light bulb went out. Light would not work after replacing bulb. Checked the voltage at the switch ...
A: Nice job of trouble shooting. So with the switch out, you have 73 vac on the hot side of the circuit ...
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| light switch voltage not correct | 4/13/2007 |
Q: Light bulb went out. Light would not work after replacing bulb. Checked the voltage at the switch ...
A: Hey Paul, Where is the switch? A typical wall switch? If so what were the measurement points you ...
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| tapping into a light switch for electric | 4/12/2007 |
Q: I want to put a fan/light (fan goes on when light does) in a bathroom and get electric from an ...
A: Karen, First look at this link at the bottom of the page: ...
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| 16/5 wire for old Hunter window fan | 4/12/2007 |
Q: I'm replacing a 2 ft. section of an old wire from the motor (21 amps, 115-125 volts) of this window ...
A: Mike, You are very welcome. Thank you for the very kind words. You used common sense and you were ...
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| electrical wiring | 4/12/2007 |
Q: I am replacing an old outside light fixture with a modern motion detector light, however I can get ...
A: Most likely not, though you not having a ground at all is a bit of a safety concern. Does it say ...
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| 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: Marc, I have included a site for you to look at. Probably the way to go is with RF or some type ...
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| toaster oven low temperature | 4/10/2007 |
Q: I set my Oster toaster oven to 450 degrees. I inserted an oven thermometer in the toaster oven and ...
A: If you need anything else at all, do not hesitate to write. I understand that sometimes we feel ...
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| 1 wire; that's it | 4/10/2007 |
Q: OK guys heres one ive not been able to get answer too; i was changing/upgrading outlets around house ...
A: OK, You have a single pole light switch with one wire in the switch box? It is white. The other side ...
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| Use of voltage step down converter | 4/9/2007 |
Q: I currently have a 110v Treadmill and will be moving to Europe. If I use a step down converter to ...
A: Depends. The motor on the treadmill should say 50/60 hertz. If not call the Maker of the Treadmill ...
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| Ceiling fan that makes noise- 2 fans | 4/9/2007 |
Q: I have (2) SMC 52" five blade ceiling fanas that makes a buzzing sound when running in all three ...
A: Buzzing doesn't sound like lack of lube. What is the history of these fans? New, old, just started ...
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| wiring a ceiling fan | 4/9/2007 |
Q: Can I wire a ceiling fan to a switch that is wired only to a socket and nothing else in the room?
A: Let me make sure of the question. Can you wire a ceiling fan to an existing light socket that has a ...
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| OLD PLUGS | 4/9/2007 |
Q: I live in a studio apartment. I am turning the mainroom into a home studio for recording and such. ...
A: This is good news. Can you remove a metal box, remove the earth round, slide in a plastic box and ...
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| lights in Japan | 4/9/2007 |
Q: I have a three part question. First, I live in Japan and I am wondering if the Voltage used here ...
A: The Japanese voltage you say is 100 AC @ 50/60 Hertz. I know nothing of Japanese electrical supply, ...
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| Subpanel installation | 4/9/2007 |
Q: I am planning to install a subpanel to the main panel in order to run power to a carriage barn out ...
A: NO. NOT EVEN A POSSIBILITY. The feed is designed for 200 and nothing can be done except your ...
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| refridgerator amps | 4/8/2007 |
Q: I just bought a new gas generator for the cottage that has a output of 7.5 amps. Is that enough to ...
A: Possibly, however I need the nameplate voltage and current rating from the refrigerator. Should be ...
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| Voltage change on Dewalt Table Saw DW746 | 4/8/2007 |
Q: I have a Dewalt table saw (DW746) which can be either 120 / 240V. Currently it is wired for 120V ...
A: NO, there is no effect on the motor by the wire colors feeding it in this case. All you have are ...
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| Voltage change on Dewalt Table Saw DW746 | 4/7/2007 |
Q: I have a Dewalt table saw (DW746) which can be either 120 / 240V. Currently it is wired for 120V ...
A: Mark, You have it correct. It should say electrically connect motor leads orange and black, then ...
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| another 4 vs 3 prong dryer cord question | 4/7/2007 |
Q: I bought a new home with 4 prong receptacle. My 1 year old dryer has 3 prong plug. I presume that ...
A: I don't know if wrong is the correct term but I know where you are going. If the shunt between ...
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| another 4 vs 3 prong dryer cord question | 4/7/2007 |
Q: I bought a new home with 4 prong receptacle. My 1 year old dryer has 3 prong plug. I presume that ...
A: You are correct. There sure are a lot of these going on these days. But you have wrote the question ...
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| Bathroom outlets | 4/6/2007 |
Q: I have 2 outlets in my bathroom. 1 is a standard 3 prong double receptacle, the other is a double 3 ...
A: What was going on with the old light bar? Did you have outlet problems then? You had one outlet ...
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| Motor tripping heaters | 4/6/2007 |
Q: I have 30 years of service experience in the HVAC field. I've worked in large industrial plants and ...
A: 30 years! I been at it a bit longer and now know two of us need our heads examined. Actually it is ...
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| Bathroom outlets | 4/5/2007 |
Q: I have 2 outlets in my bathroom. 1 is a standard 3 prong double receptacle, the other is a double 3 ...
A: "IS the fact that the switch is not wired to a new light bar yet a problem?" YES The extra black ...
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| 208/230 vs 220 volts | 4/5/2007 |
Q: Can you explain the difference between 208/230 volts and 220 volts. I am hooking up a 60 gal ...
A: It appears damn confusing. I won't go into great detail, but depending on a power transformers ...
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| 208/230 volts vs 220 volts | 4/5/2007 |
Q: Can you explain the difference between 208/230 volts and 220 volts. I am hooking up a 60 gal ...
A: I am sorry, i thought I got to this question. It is nothing to worry about. It is really a range of ...
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| a light that won't turn off at all | 4/5/2007 |
Q: recently my roomate replaced a bulb in his overhead light and, tonight he came to me to figure out ...
A: You shut down the main breaker and a light is still on? If so go get a lamp or radio or something ...
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| 30 amp 220 volt generator receptacle | 4/5/2007 |
Q: My gen. has a 4 wire receptacle,30 amp, my air compressor has a 3 prong that looks like a 110 volt ...
A: Do you have it now? It is a hell of problem trying to explain that kind of ground. You said it was ...
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| Wiring ceiling fan and remote | 4/4/2007 |
Q: I have a Hampton Bay model# 54SHRL. The fan was an open box item and was missing it's remote so I ...
A: Could you sync the hand held remote with the dip switches? I am alwasy in need of knowing how it ...
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| outlet addition | 4/4/2007 |
Q: I have 1 outlet installed now and would like to go from a single gang box to a triple gang box, how ...
A: Make sure your circuit will handle the load and code is OK, then get the box for the triple and wire ...
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| 4-prong dryer cable, color coded wire | 4/4/2007 |
Q: I have Whirlpool duet dryer and would like to hook it up with a 4-prong outlet. The 4-prong cord is ...
A: Are there no markings on the dryer? not so much for color but for hot, neutral, line ground etc. ...
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| wiring on off and low/high speed switch | 4/4/2007 |
Q: I've wired a 2 speed furnace fan motor, (to run as an air cleaner in my home wood shop)using 14/3 ...
A: Motors and enclosures are built with certain ratings and dust is one of them. Believe it or not, ...
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| wiring on off and low/high speed switch | 4/4/2007 |
Q: I've wired a 2 speed furnace fan motor, (to run as an air cleaner in my home wood shop)using 14/3 ...
A: Actually , just the opposite of crazy. Keeping the dust out of the motors is critical, keeping the ...
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| generator compatibility | 4/3/2007 |
Q: Will: I have two honda generators. One is an e2000 and the other is an e3000. I know how to hook ...
A: It ain't. Now what you can do is to figure out what generator has the power to run the pump. Then ...
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| Wire size for gate opener | 4/3/2007 |
Q: I am installing a one hp electric 110 Vac swing gate opener. It is 1040 feet from my breaker box. ...
A: Because I don't know where you are, what the lay of the land is, and other factors I could give you ...
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| 220 volt appliance | 4/3/2007 |
Q: Is there any way I can use North American 220/240 to power a bad boy 3000W 220V UK kettle? All that ...
A: I unfortunately don't know what a bad boy kettle is. Do you know if the kettle is rated 50/60 cycle ...
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| Service to house and shop | 4/3/2007 |
Q: I'm building a house and shop. I will be running a 60A welder, 60A plasma cutter, and 40A air ...
A: Tough to use? You are kind or a genius. It is a bitch and only the extremely experienced have read ...
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| slow start-up on 240v bandsaw | 4/3/2007 |
Q: I recently moved houses, and I'm having a problem with my bandsaw at the new place. I have a 3hp ...
A: Nice work. thank you for the very kind words. So the voltage at the motors was 122? The sub panel ...
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| outdoor motion sensor lights stay on | 4/3/2007 |
Q: I have two outdoor lights with motion sensor that had worked fine and they both now stay on all the ...
A: YES. Are they controlled from a switch in the house somewhere? If so, these things sometimes have ...
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| Converting pool pump motors to solar | 4/3/2007 |
Q: I'm interested in what it would take to convert my in ground pool pump motor from ac to solar ...
A: A lot. You would have huge solar collectors, something to change the solar to AC Voltage, regulate ...
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| Light that won't turn off | 4/3/2007 |
Q: In ref to the below, I tried your advice. Hooking the black wire of the fixture to the single white ...
A: YES, but we don't know what someone else did. Look at it this way. Hot should be witched. Once you ...
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| 220 110 | 4/2/2007 |
Q: I could not reply back on my own question as when I did, it said you were on vacation. Thanks for ...
A: You are doing fine. How do you know no reading with a broke meter and the other does with a broke ...
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| Wire size for gate opener | 4/2/2007 |
Q: I am installing a one hp electric 110 Vac swing gate opener. It is 1040 feet from my breaker box. ...
A: Copper is much better than aluminum. don't use it. Run 1000 feet of one size and tie onto the end ...
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| Door Bell | 4/2/2007 |
Q: I have just a simple doorbell and it lights up. Well, the light and the doorbell has stopped ...
A: Yes, somewhere in the house is a doorbell transformer, probably in your basement or in your attic. ...
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| Gemini Glass top Duel Oven Stove Shocked my wife | 4/2/2007 |
Q: I was laying tile in my 2nd Bath and my wife was cooking dinner. I heard a snap that I belive came ...
A: the stove receptacle? I thought it might be. YOU ARE THE MAN! Way to hang in there and thank you ...
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| wiring on off and low/high speed switch | 4/2/2007 |
Q: I've wired a 2 speed furnace fan motor, (to run as an air cleaner in my home wood shop)using 14/3 ...
A: RE-READ YOUR question and make sure it is what you wanted to ask. The answer to the question as ...
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| 220 runs for a rotary phase converter | 4/2/2007 |
Q: Does operating a rotary phase converter unbalance the load on the two legs of a 220 supply and if so ...
A: I am going to send you some links to look at and help you with sizing and some other issues. Here ...
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| OLD PLUGS | 4/1/2007 |
Q: I live in a studio apartment. I am turning the mainroom into a home studio for recording and such. ...
A: This brand says it will work: http://www.walkabouttravelgear.com/ts237.htm If you want to get real ...
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| electric cable | 4/1/2007 |
Q: So glad this site exists, thx a mil ! Im trying to change a "plug head", that goes into a Lacie ...
A: Can you not lay them out by physical position? They should be in a row> or two top, left right, two ...
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| Connecting a light fixture | 4/1/2007 |
Q: In the outlet box I have 2 wires. The coverings of both have been painted so I can't tell which is ...
A: There is just two wires? Alternate means reversing them right? Not another set of wires? Well ...
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| kenmore/whirlpool 3 speed motor | 4/1/2007 |
Q: This is a kenmore/whirlpool 3 speed stepper motor. It is running, but is on the middle speed. I ...
A: OK I get the idea now> Does the motor start right up and torque pretty good? Is the motor running in ...
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| 220 110 | 4/1/2007 |
Q: I could not reply back on my own question as when I did, it said you were on vacation. Thanks for ...
A: The plot thickens. You bet they are connected. I bet there is two neutrals on the one, two hots on ...
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| Ceiling fan chirping | 4/1/2007 |
Q: I have a Casa Vieja ceiling fan in my room that started chirping. This unit has no remote and no ...
A: No owner's manual I take it? Go trip the breaker on the fan circuit and tell me if it quits. Does ...
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| Capacitor for pump motor | 4/1/2007 |
Q: How can I determine the size of capacitor to be used to our 220V pump motor? (that we got also from ...
A: You are having no luck at all. No motor data, no cap data? The best you can do at this point is one ...
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| Ceiling fan chirping | 4/1/2007 |
Q: I have a Casa Vieja ceiling fan in my room that started chirping. This unit has no remote and no ...
A: Probably a bearing. When noise emit at constant intervals correlating to rotational speed it is most ...
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| Short in switched circuit | 3/31/2007 |
Q: I have a short in the end leg wire that feeds power to the switched outlets. This wire is pulled ...
A: I do appreciate the kind words. You are correct in all, and you also know the difficulty of writing ...
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| 220 110 | 3/31/2007 |
Q: I could not reply back on my own question as when I did, it said you were on vacation. Thanks for ...
A: WOW. Glad to hear back from you. If you take a volt meter and put the probes in the outlet you will ...
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| Swimming Pool Grounding | 3/31/2007 |
Q: Recently it has come to our attention that many swimming pool in a subdivision built by a major ...
A: NO. You will need someone licensed in the area. They will know the local code and offer a solution. ...
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| Short in switched circuit | 3/31/2007 |
Q: I have a short in the end leg wire that feeds power to the switched outlets. This wire is pulled ...
A: Here is a pretty good ohm meter lesson: http://arcadecontrols.com/BBBB/om.html I have not run ...
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| Short in switched circuit | 3/30/2007 |
Q: I have a short in the end leg wire that feeds power to the switched outlets. This wire is pulled ...
A: Yes. First isolate the circuits, Check for continuity to the pipe one at a time looking for a short ...
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| Putting up a ceiling fan | 3/30/2007 |
Q: I'm installing a celing fan in a bedroom and I'm a little confused on the wiring in the ceiling. ...
A: You say you put the three wires from the fan together on the wire from the ceiling. Do you have all ...
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| hooking up to a generator? | 3/30/2007 |
Q: I have a generator with a nema L14-30R recepticle on it for 240v. My cabin is wired to a nema ...
A: Please look at this site. give them a call. Explain to them what you have. The L14-30P is custom ...
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| Question on 5-head goose neck floor lamp | 3/30/2007 |
Q: I recently bought a 5-head goose neck floor lamp from target store.When i asembled it it didnt ...
A: I can't imagine a company having a customer wire a lamp to the extent you are speaking of. Unless ...
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| House Thermostate | 3/30/2007 |
Q: I wanted to replace my old mercury house thermostat. I bought a digital one and installed it. The ...
A: You have eight wires in the wall behind the thermostat? 1 Possibility that the other four are bad ...
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| Question on 5-head goose neck floor lamp | 3/30/2007 |
Q: I recently bought a 5-head goose neck floor lamp from target store.When i asembled it it didnt ...
A: It is the wiring. Do you still have the assembly instructions? Tell me about the lamp operation. Is ...
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| Putting up a ceiling fan | 3/29/2007 |
Q: I'm installing a celing fan in a bedroom and I'm a little confused on the wiring in the ceiling. ...
A: Was the light you took down switched, away, from the light on the wall, or was it a pull chain ...
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| Service to house and shop | 3/29/2007 |
Q: I'm building a house and shop. I will be running a 60A welder, 60A plasma cutter, and 40A air ...
A: Codes are different in all situations and different from locale to locale Breakers are not ...
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| Appreciate your help | 3/29/2007 |
Q: I have a 100a panel thats about 75ft. away from where the service cable enters the house. What type ...
A: I know you won't like this answer, but it depends on what types of load, motors, just lights, etc. ...
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| Wiring an air compressor to a 220 switch | 3/29/2007 |
Q: I wanted to know if I could use this switch( Bryant Electrical 1 Phase, 3 Pole 30 Amp toggle motor ...
A: You are very welcome and thank you so much for the very kind words and voe of confidence. You get ...
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| Capacitor for pump motor | 3/29/2007 |
Q: How can I determine the size of capacitor to be used to our 220V pump motor? (that we got also from ...
A: How did you determine the motor is OK and the motor is good? If the cap is bad the motor won't ...
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| grounding at the subpanel | 3/28/2007 |
Q: I have installed a subpanel in the basement.Bare ground is attached to the ground casing bar, white ...
A: At the subpanel, did you keep the neutral and ground separate? Do not tie the buss to the panel ...
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| Wiring an air compressor to a 220 switch | 3/28/2007 |
Q: I wanted to know if I could use this switch( Bryant Electrical 1 Phase, 3 Pole 30 Amp toggle motor ...
A: It will take me a while to answer, I have to look up that switch. It will be tonight before I can ...
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| blown fuse | 3/28/2007 |
Q: My son accidentally got a balloon caught in the ceiling fan. We immediately turned it off and ...
A: Ok first let's get the terminology fixed, incase you are calling someone locally. The device that ...
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| Wiring an air compressor to a 220 switch | 3/28/2007 |
Q: I wanted to know if I could use this switch( Bryant Electrical 1 Phase, 3 Pole 30 Amp toggle motor ...
A: I find nothing on the switch. The best way is with a contactor sized to the compressor amperage and ...
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| Swith outlet combo | 3/27/2007 |
Q: I've installed a garbage disposal. I have a dual outlet that I want to convert to a outlet/switch ...
A: Completely or just when switched? Probably in either case it has to do with the two outlets being ...
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| 60 amp | 3/27/2007 |
Q: With a 6-2 stranded copper wire and a 60 amp 2 pole breaker, can I run 3 A/C's. One with a 45 max, ...
A: No. There are many de-rating factors and formulas for amperages in overload protection. Too long to ...
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| 3 prong dryer hookup 4 prong dryer? | 3/27/2007 |
Q: I read the stuff online for the opposite situation and cannot extrapolate for my situation. If i am ...
A: I understand your frustration and you are making perfect sense. Dryer new four wire. You can shunt ...
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| Cut Romex | 3/27/2007 |
Q: A carpenter cut through the hot (black) wire in a romex cable that is in a channel next to a window ...
A: Yes, Before you read all the commercial links I have provided, here is the way I would do it. Can ...
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| Red Wire | 3/26/2007 |
Q: We purchased a new home with a ceiling fan rough-in. We are trying to install the fan/light combo ...
A: Sorry didn't catch your full question. Red usually indicates a hot wire switch leg. The red would be ...
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| Remote controlled ceiling fan | 3/26/2007 |
Q: I have a Hunter ceiling fan/light that is controlled by remote control. Now the light is the only ...
A: Please use the hyperlink below. Hunter has so many different wiring schemes for their fans, ...
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| 1phase requirement ...3 phase outlet | 3/26/2007 |
Q: I have several 220V 3phase outlets available to me but no single phase. I have a welder who requires ...
A: No, not at the plug. But if you have three phase in the building [a big plus!] you can go to the ...
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| Red Wire | 3/26/2007 |
Q: We purchased a new home with a ceiling fan rough-in. We are trying to install the fan/light combo ...
A: Most commonly ceiling fans will have 4 wires, or 3 wires plus a ground. Black, white, green, and an ...
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| Gemini Glass top Duel Oven Stove Shocked my wife | 3/26/2007 |
Q: I was laying tile in my 2nd Bath and my wife was cooking dinner. I heard a snap that I belive came ...
A: Well there is three people looking the situation over and say nothing is wrong. New stove, laying ...
|
| downstairs lights | 3/25/2007 |
Q: All my downstairs lights have stopped working, the trip switch has not gone but strangely my kitchen ...
A: Here are several scenarios: 1. You have two separate problems, that showed up at one time. By the ...
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| Sub panel feed | 3/25/2007 |
Q: I have a 60a sub panel that I want to feed.Its 8 circuits,but the only circuits I have are basically ...
A: You didn't mention the distance, but I get the feeling from your question you know what you are ...
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| Direct Wire to Wall Plug | 3/25/2007 |
Q: I want to change a track light from direct wire to a wall plug. Are there instructions on how to do ...
A: Are you wanting to add a cord to the track light and be able to plug it in? If so most likely. Not ...
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| New light in off-postion trips breaker | 3/24/2007 |
Q: I have just installed a new light fixure in my bathroom. After wiring the fixture, I turned the ...
A: Somehow you have a direct short when the switch is off. Make sure first that the position of the ...
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| nutural wire | 3/24/2007 |
Q: what and how does the natural do ANSWER: You mean neutral? It is typically the ground side of an AC ...
A: A Neutral represents a reference point within an electrical distribution system. Conductors ...
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| 220v | 3/24/2007 |
Q: I have bought a Dryer in us that 220/240v and moved to europe i need to know will my drier work and ...
A: I don't know where you are in Europe, but nothing works on 1 wire. Often European voltages will be ...
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| reconnecting power to a mobile home | 3/23/2007 |
Q: I am a novice to electrical wiring, but would like to try reconnecting power to an old building on ...
A: Steve, keep a copy of this description. You did a great job of checking everything, you noted it in ...
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| Light that won't turn off. | 3/23/2007 |
Q: I recently had my house painted. The painter took down the outside mounted wall light and basically ...
A: When the painter trashed the light, how do we know what he did with pairings of wires? This will be ...
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| Gemini Glass top Duel Oven Stove Shocked my wife | 3/23/2007 |
Q: I was laying tile in my 2nd Bath and my wife was cooking dinner. I heard a snap that I belive came ...
A: Yes I do. First I need to know how savvy you are with electricity. Second, is there a decent ...
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| disconnecting a hard-wired oven | 3/22/2007 |
Q: We are removing our hard-wired drop in range. We need to know how to safely disconnect the wiring. ...
A: You have done the first step correctly. You are absolutely sure you have the correct breaker off? ...
|
| T-Bar and Heat Ducts Energized | 3/21/2007 |
Q: I am in the process of installing a suspended ceiling in my basement and I have discovered that the ...
A: You should be damn proud or yourself. That was not an easy problem. I just got a question about a ...
|
| Replacing wall AC. | 3/21/2007 |
Q: I'm replacing my AC wall unit with a Fujitsu Mini split air (24000 BTU's), the old unit was ...
A: It sounds like your existing unit is three phase. Is that a possibility? There is no point in 12/3 ...
|
| Spa electrical | 3/21/2007 |
Q: A friend gave me a spa and I am in the process of getting things together to get it all hooked up. ...
A: Good job. Now Don't assume there is 50 Amps in left in the main where you are going to get this ...
|
| 120 volts AC to 12 volts DC converter | 3/21/2007 |
Q: I have a 12volt dc lift that is run with hydraulic by two 12volt deep cycle marine batteries. Can I ...
A: Yes you can. There are commercial convertors available. Or to build your own, you need a transformer ...
|
| Spa electrical | 3/21/2007 |
Q: A friend gave me a spa and I am in the process of getting things together to get it all hooked up. ...
A: You are doing good so far. First thing is there an owner's manual and install guide for the spa? If ...
|
| Outlet extension | 3/21/2007 |
Q: My outlets are sunk in to sheetrock to far how do i get them out is there extension boxes. thanks ...
A: Tell me more. All of them are sunk? Did they move for some reason? Or are you saying someone ...
|
| Electrical Panel Upgrade | 3/21/2007 |
Q: We have a 30 year old house with a 150 amp "Zelco"? panel. We have used all the spaces avaliable in ...
A: Absolutely. I don't know what the "others" level of expertise is, but if you have an electrician you ...
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| low voltage outside lighting | 3/20/2007 |
Q: I do not have outside electrical outlets so I would like to mount the low voltage transformers on ...
A: Then I think your plan is a good one. Let me know if you come up with WHY, they say to put them ...
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| conduit in basement | 3/20/2007 |
Q: William, I'm adding a sub in my shed and am running 3 - #4 THHN wire from my main on a 50amp 220v ...
A: If you have a good instructional book, stay with what it says. Often times ground rods are ...
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| T-Bar and Heat Ducts Energized | 3/20/2007 |
Q: I am in the process of installing a suspended ceiling in my basement and I have discovered that the ...
A: First of all, I am impressed with your determination and your trouble shooting ability. Yes the ...
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| Old socket new range | 3/20/2007 |
Q: I have a home built in 1984 with a 3 prong range socket. The socket contains a red, black and white ...
A: I just ran into the same thing. New code calls for new installs to have a separate or fourth chassis ...
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| low voltage outside lighting | 3/20/2007 |
Q: I do not have outside electrical outlets so I would like to mount the low voltage transformers on ...
A: I will have to go back and find out why my answer did not come to you. I apologize I think it was ...
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| Outlet question | 3/20/2007 |
Q: I'm wiring my shop with outlets along the back wall (3 in a row). So from my panel I have wire ...
A: Tom, Yes. I am assuming you mean by fins, that top and bottom are shunted together. There is ...
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| Separate thermostats for heat and cool. | 3/19/2007 |
Q: I would like to have an automatic thermostat that would switch over, between heat and cool, when it ...
A: I can see why you want the two controls, but trying to use two would probably be a real issue. ...
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| loose electrical neutral | 3/19/2007 |
Q: how can i locate a loose neotral that is sending random surges through out the circuits?
A: If you invest in a decent non contact circuit tracer, the indicator on the tool may beep or light ...
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| T-Bar and Heat Ducts Energized | 3/19/2007 |
Q: I am in the process of installing a suspended ceiling in my basement and I have discovered that the ...
A: First don't panic and start taking things apart. I know at this point all this work you have done ...
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| Light that won't turn off. | 3/19/2007 |
Q: I recently had my house painted. The painter took down the outside mounted wall light and basically ...
A: It sounds like the light was on a three way switch. Where did you turn the light on from? It ...
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| Electric Motor Reset Button | 3/18/2007 |
Q: Let me first say I'm fairly skilled in electrical repair and know enough not to electrocute myself. ...
A: I certainly hope that from my previous answers, I haven't given the impression I feel most are not ...
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| Wiring | 3/17/2007 |
Q: I need to know what size wire to use to run out to workshop. I have a 6.25 horsepower compressor and ...
A: Need a little more information to help you. How will you run it out to the barn? How far is it? ...
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| garage wiring | 3/16/2007 |
Q: i have some tools in my garage.bandsaw.saw woodlathe+a dust vac.is it ok to run 12ga wire from the ...
A: You have some questions inside the question, but that is OK, some go right ahead without asking and ...
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| wiring | 3/10/2007 |
Q: other than homes, where else might you find electrical wiring? Thanks,BH
A: Do you mean the type of wiring that is in a typical home? Or just wiring of any kind? My first ...
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| Light Fixture heating up | 3/1/2007 |
Q: I have a high hat light fixture that was working fine for years but now sometimes a perfectly good ...
A: My apologies, I do not know what the term high hat is, regarding a light. It may be important, but ...
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| GFI vs non-GFI | 3/1/2007 |
Q: I purchased a machine that must be plugged into a non-GFI plug or it stops. My electrician told me ...
A: I didn't see a specific question. Are you saying that the only place you can plug this machine into ...
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| Converting 240v to 110v | 3/1/2007 |
Q: and the accompanying foot pedal and power cord. I want to replace the motor with a 110v, and am ...
A: This is Will. I found your question in the question pool, it looked like you had not received an ...
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| Wall oven | 2/28/2007 |
Q: I am trying to replace my old wall oven but am confused concerning the wiring supplied with the new ...
A: I don't quite understand the question. The wiring that came with the new oven is smaller than than ...
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| Lights flickering | 2/22/2007 |
Q: The lights in my home have a continual minor flicker. Not just one flicker, as in a power surge, but ...
A: Start looking at the main power box. Sounds like a intermittent connection on one a neutral ...
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| Adding new light, but one is on and one is off. | 2/21/2007 |
Q: I am adding a new light in an existing bathroom between an existing light and an existing switch. ...
A: Can you put the existing light back just as it was? If so you need to do that for the moment. When ...
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| Dryer | 1/4/2007 |
Q: I bought this house 2 years ago. I started using my old dryer and it took 3 cycles to dry a load of ...
A: You are right. the difference is the full load current of the different motors on different dryers. ...
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| 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: Did he say it was against code? If so yes move them. He is worrying about inducing electrical in ...
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| tiffany lamp electrical connection | 12/23/2006 |
Q: I am going to install a tiffany style lamp hanging from the ceiling. I will use an existing outlet ...
A: The extra "copper wire" is more than likely a ground wire. It looks copper in color because it has ...
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