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About Greg Hughes
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
Residential Electrical including Appliances and HVAC with 28 years experience.

Experience
Started training as an electrician in 1979, worked for major companies and the government.

Education/Credentials
Graduated from Electrician's School, Carrier Training, and various specialty schools.

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

Questions Answered By Expert Greg Hughes
In Category Electrical Wiring in the Home

Subject	Date Asked

Remodeling kitchen adding wall oven and cooktop	10/7/2008
Q: Our home was constructed in 2000. Currently we have an electric 4 burner range with a self cleaning ... A: The NEC allows both the cooktop and oven to be on the same breaker, as long as the breaker can ...
200 vs 100 amp service	10/6/2008
Q: We moved from a house with a 200 amp service to one with 100 amp service. Our electric blanket ... A: A quick test would be to use a voltmeter in the same outlet as the one the blanket is plugged into. ...
House Main Breaker	10/5/2008
Q: Our apt. has only one breaker between the meter , and the Apt, upstairs. I cannot determine the amp ... A: Two 20 amp breakers with single lever is called a 20amp double pole breaker and it is rated at 20 ...
Sub Panel	10/3/2008
Q: question is ... I am running a 125 subpanel around 125 feet from the main panel ... what size feeder ... A: Normally a 125 amp panel requires #2 copper. However, your long distance means that you need to go ...
Dayton G73 Electric Heater	10/3/2008
Q: In reference to the Murray/Alex Napier exchange regarding the above. To review - the Dayton Heater ... A: This sounds like a pure 220volt heater, meaning that is does not require 120volts. If so, black from ...
wiring mobile home	10/1/2008
Q: We just put a pole outside for new electric service. The electrician we got put a 200amp breaker on ... A: There are too many unknowns for me to tell you if it safe or not. You should of pulled a permit for ...
Re-wiring a pump	10/1/2008
Q: I recently replaced my submersible well pump when I had a new well drilled on my property. The old ... A: Get a voltmeter and determine the voltage of the pump and which wires are carrying what volts. ...
two or more undercabinet lights in series	9/30/2008
Q: I am wiring two halogen under cabinet lights, with each having it's own switch. Do I need a fourth, ... A: If you are using the built in switches then you need to run one black, one white, and one ground to ...
adding new wiring	9/30/2008
Q: The load-bearing walls are cinder blocks with wire metal lath and plaster. The non-load-bearing ... A: There is a product called "Wiremold" that goes on the outside of the wall. This may be what you will ...
Trane shop heater wiring	9/29/2008
Q: Old, hanging Trane shop heater, natural gas, 115v. Fan motor went bad, ordered a replacement from ... A: The four wires indicate that it is either multispeed or requires a capacitor. The wiring diagram on ...
two or more undercabinet lights in series	9/28/2008
Q: I am wiring two halogen under cabinet lights, with each having it's own switch. Do I need a fourth, ... A: You will have black from the outlet go to each switch. From the other side of the switch you will ...
Dryer wiring problem	9/27/2008
Q: I just remodeled an old cabin and put 10-2 wire in for the dryer instead of 10-3. The walls have ... A: Mark, There is product called Wiremold that you can run on the outside of the wall. What you need ...
wiring multiple outlets	9/26/2008
Q: How would i wire multiple outlets or do they have to be home runs? A: This depends on the application. For example, bathroom outlets need to be on their own "home run", ...
220V Single Phase machine with Three phase socket?	9/25/2008
Q: I have an espresso machine that requires single phase 20amp power at 60hz...now I have an outlet ... A: You need to change the outlet to match the plug on the espresso machine. Typically you have two flat ...
electricity goes out and later comes back	9/24/2008
Q: I would be grateful if you can help me with the following problem. On a regular basis (weekly, ... A: When the power goes out you will need to trace the circuit and check each junction box and fixture ...
hvac	9/24/2008
Q: I have a heat pump that is about 23 years.American standard, I am in the process of changing from ... A: You will need to physically look at which wire goes to the reversing valve, which wire goes to the ...
3-way rocker switch	9/22/2008
Q: I have the same problem in all areas with a 3-way. I am using leviton Decora switches. My house is ... A: The new 3-way switches are wired differently than some of the old ones. If you replace it wire for ...
wiring in our new house melted our dryer	9/21/2008
Q: Greg, Hello! Help! We just moved to a new (old) house and the first few days when I was doing ... A: The two causes that I can think of are the outlet is wired wrong and you got 220 volts on the ...
service entrance	9/21/2008
Q: My entrance coming in behind the meter goes in to a cylinder fused square d switch box rated at 100 ... A: It sounds like you need an electrician to inspect your wiring and you may need to pull a permit. ...
Upstairs lighting circuit not working ?	9/18/2008
Q: The problem is that the bathroom light was switched on which in turn blew the bulb, the bulb was ... A: The voltage pen tester only detects if voltage is present, not if you have a good circuit. If you ...
220v line ?	9/18/2008
Q: is there any way i can run a 220v line split off of my stove for a dryer,i know that it wont be ... A: You can do that for a stove and oven, and you can do it in the garage for loads that will not be ...
Upstairs lighting circuit not working ?	9/17/2008
Q: The problem is that the bathroom light was switched on which in turn blew the bulb, the bulb was ... A: Three ways to approach this problem: Start at the main power and work your way towards the light. ...
Hit Electric Wire in Ceiling with Drill	9/15/2008
Q: We were installing large hanging hooks in our garage ceiling and used a regular stud finder, which ... A: I am glad to hear you are getting an electrician out there. The danger depends on several aspects. ...
Electric furnace wiring	9/13/2008
Q: Greg I'm installing a 20kw electric furnace and have worked out the min circuit breaker should be ... A: Go with the 2 gauge. A two-pole breaker connects to both legs so you can get 240 volts between the ...
Ceiling fan wiring	9/11/2008
Q: I'm replacing a light fixture controlled by a wall switch with a ceiling fan/light. Present wiring ... A: Do not worry, this is not a stupid question. Are the two lines present at the switch box or light ...
Two Switches 1 Live Line	9/11/2008
Q: Currently I have 1 switch at the top of the stairs and it turns on the lights to the Rec Room. It is ... A: If that switch only has two wires coming to it then it sounds like the power goes to the light box ...
Lights	9/10/2008
Q: My husband moved a window unit from one window to another. It had been working fine all day. Then ... A: The unit is plugged into a circuit that cannot properly support it. You will need to either place ...
Questionable wiring	9/7/2008
Q: I recently discovered some 14 gauge wiring on a 20 amp circuit in my house. The 14 gauge seems to ... A: If the lights were added on, it should not be too difficult to change the wire. With the power off, ...
Home Sauna Wiring	8/31/2008
Q: I'm building a sauna in a shed behind my house (120 feet from the main electirical panel). The ... A: You are very close on this one. The max length, given the voltage drop, is 119 feet with #8. If ...
How to replace an receptacle?	8/31/2008
Q: I found an old 3-prong socket (with one connection) in my new home that appears to be an old socket ... A: First you should find out if it is 220 volt or 110 volt. This will help you if you decide to use the ...
wiring outside the house	8/30/2008
Q: Is there any way to reconnect to a short line coming through the basement wall? Our old well pump ... A: I guess that is why they are plumbers and not electricians. You are going to need to find where the ...
subpanel	8/30/2008
Q: the subpanel in my detached garage did not pass inspection because the main breaker did not have a ... A: You gave me the model of the subpanel, which does not have a main breaker. I believe you are ...
WELDER HOOK UP	8/29/2008
Q: I NEED TO RUN A 240 V CIRCUIT TO A SYNCROWAVE 200 WELDER. ITS RATED OUTPUT IS 150 AMPS AT 26 ... A: The voltage drop should not be a concern for 60 feet. I would recommend #4 gauge and a 60 amp ...
Lennox start capacitor not grounded	8/29/2008
Q: I believe - red, yellow, green wires) recently burned out on my 10+ old Lennox outside air unit. A ... A: Start caps have a tolerance whereas run caps do not. The start cap should have a % of tolerance ...
wiring three way to outlets!	8/28/2008
Q: I'm Currently working on renovating my house, In my upstairs bedroom i want to have my recepticals ... A: Here are the different ways to wire it according to where the power comes in and if the light is ...
wire length in main panel	8/27/2008
Q: I am wiring a new 125 Amp Murray main lug panel. I was taught in an electrical course 20 years ago ... A: You can have a wire nut in the panel. Two schools of thought; you get to pick which one. Bring the ...
washer and dryer grounding???	8/27/2008
Q: ..I just got an old washer and dryer and I'm wondering if the green wire hanging from the back of ... A: The middle one should be the neutral, which is white on the dryer. Remember to bond the neutral ...
washer and dryer grounding???	8/26/2008
Q: ..I just got an old washer and dryer and I'm wondering if the green wire hanging from the back of ... A: That green wire gets connected to your cold water line. It is most likely that the people who owned ...
electrical problem	8/26/2008
Q: the other day while vacuuming my breaker tripped. I unplugged the vacuum and went to the breaker ... A: If the bathroom outlets are on the same circuit and have power then it would not be a circuit ...
electric thermostat	8/25/2008
Q: I want to move my thermostat from the electric heater to a wall mount. I have run 12-2 wire to the ... A: It depends on whether the t-stat is single or double pole. And, are you sure the 12-2 is big enough? ...
wiring in a ceiling fan	8/25/2008
Q: Greg, I am looking to install a ceiling fan in a bedroom that has no ceiling fixture. There is a ... A: The way I told you to wire it would make the outlet hot on both upper and lower prongs. If you are ...
wiring in a ceiling fan	8/24/2008
Q: Greg, I am looking to install a ceiling fan in a bedroom that has no ceiling fixture. There is a ... A: I would suggest running wires from your switch to the attic and across to where you want your fan to ...
Replacing Furnce	8/23/2008
Q: We are replacing a 15yo furnace with more efficient model. Terrible time deciding which brand. ... A: Having been factory trained by Carrier, worked for factory authorized Lennox - Trane & Carrier; And ...
Capacitor	8/22/2008
Q: If a blower motor (for an air handler) asks for a 5mF/370V cap, would it be a big deal to connect a ... A: Run caps need to be exactly what the motor calls for or else you will have premature burn out of the ...
need home generator connection to house help	8/21/2008
Q: I have a 5500 watt gas electric generator. I have not had time to get an electrician to install the ... A: "Do you think that will work as a temp fix thru this storm?" All indications that I have seen you ...
Hard wire do wall plug	8/20/2008
Q: I bought a range hood that was supposed to have a plug but that instead has 2 wires coming out of it ... A: I take it that you are not replacing an existing hood, but adding a new one that never had any ...
Plugs not working	8/18/2008
Q: The plugs in my two back rooms don't seem to work. I have tried flipping the switch at the circuit ... A: The testers that light up merely tell that there is voltage present, but not how much. It also ...
One Circuit two breakers	8/17/2008
Q: My garbage disposal circuit requires that I turn off two separate breakers and siimultaneously to ... A: No, this is not normal. Somehow you have that tied into another circuit. You will need to back track ...
New switch	8/17/2008
Q: I want to add a switch and an outlet to an existing line of outlets. However, I only want the ... A: Yes it is possible. With the power off, run your romex (12/2) from the switch to the outlet. You ...
Outside Garage Lights	8/16/2008
Q: Have a problem with outside garage light pair, standard builders’ grade fixtures from Lowes: Both ... A: Mike, This is an old trick that sometimes works. We usually do not reveal it because it is ...
Shed feeder question	8/15/2008
Q: Hughes: I just built a 12 x 16 shed and pulled my electrical permit to wire it up. I have a ... A: I am surprised that the inspector is allowing you to put in a 100 amp service panel on #4 wire. This ...
Outdoor GFCI got wet	8/14/2008
Q: Greg, My father and I installed a GFCI line outside for my new pool. Over the past 3+ weeks, it has ... A: If the pump was plugged in and the cover was open to accommodate the plug then it is very possible ...
Circuit out	8/13/2008
Q: After a recent storm, the main switch activated. On turning it back on, the switch activated again. ... A: Bill, That is a good way to troubleshoot. If the breaker trips with no load on the transformer you ...
GFI Outlet	8/12/2008
Q: I have just replaced a GFI outlet in my kitchen. I believe i have everything connected correctly ... A: You should have the hot wire connected to "Line-Hot" or "Line-Black", the neutral to "Line-Neutral" ...
Running wiring to the shed	8/11/2008
Q: I'd like to run 20amp wiring from the breaker box, through the basement and outside - then running ... A: Many cities allow a home owner to do an electrical upgrade under builder-owner as long as a permit ...
Running wiring to the shed	8/10/2008
Q: I'd like to run 20amp wiring from the breaker box, through the basement and outside - then running ... A: Greg, Here are some things to think about: 1. Is the pump 110 volts or 220 volts? 2. Do you think ...
208 VAC	8/9/2008
Q: We are a non-profit that just received a donation of a forklift and battery charger for our ... A: 1.The diagram was scanned at too low of resolution for me to read. I can see that it is telling us ...
Dimmer and Recessed Light	8/8/2008
Q: I installed nine (9) recessed lights in our living room. The wire used is Romex 12 Gauge (Yellow ... A: The actual wattage drawn is a result of the actual voltage supplied. The resistance of the filament ...
24v supply for humidifier	8/8/2008
Q: I am (re)installing an Aprilaire 700M humidifier on my Bryant 350MAV furnace. (The old one, an ... A: The "HUM" is for your humidifier connection. This is only energized when the furnace in is the heat ...
Grounding strap concern	8/6/2008
Q: The original DirecTV installer did not use exactly one of the points in an article "Grounding ... A: I do not enough information from that picture to give you advise. You need to find out how ...
three-way switch wiring issue	8/5/2008
Q: have three way switch circuit that is giving me a problem. Situation: I have a three switch to ... A: Newer three-way switches are wired differently than older three-way switches. If you replace an ...
mobile home	8/5/2008
Q: Hughes, How difficult is it to change the aluminum wiring in a mobile home to copper wiring. Also I ... A: Aluminum wire expands and contracts more than copper does, so it is more prone to become loose and ...
TV turns off when Stove is turned on	8/4/2008
Q: This is a problem that has happened to me in two separate apartments. It only started after I ... A: It sounds like your surge-protector is doing it's job. An A/C draws a lot of power when it turns on ...
MOBILE HOME ELECTRICAL	8/3/2008
Q: LOST POWER TO A 220 AC UNIT, AND ALSO REFRIGE AND FREEZER, AND OTHER SPOTS AROUND THE HOUSE, WHAT IS ... A: The first place I would look is in the main panel. It sounds like either a main breaker going bad or ...
replacing a receptacle	8/3/2008
Q: before replacement, when the light switch was in the off position, the receptacles had power to only ... A: There is a small metal tab on the side of the outlet where the screws are that needs to be broken. ...
installing new ceiling fan	8/2/2008
Q: I am trying to install a new ceiling fan/light combo. The existing fan uses the pull chains to ... A: This means that power is most likely being supplied at the light fixture and the two wires to the ...
swamp cooler motor	8/2/2008
Q: I bought a 1 yr old cooler this summer from a friend who I guess left it undrained last winter, so I ... A: The first thing to check is the voltage supplied to the motor. If that is okay then you did the ...
Residential remodel wiring	8/1/2008
Q: I have recently bought an older home that had some older updates, including the electrical. We had ... A: It will probably be better to isolate the bedroom outlets like you are thinking. This will also ...
expanding from one outlet to three	7/30/2008
Q: I am renovating my bathroom. I have one standard outlet on the opposite wall from the sink. I want ... A: The first thing you want to check is if this outlet is on a GFCI breaker, or fed from another GFCI ...
Stackable W/D	7/29/2008
Q: My husband pulled out a stackable washer/dryer unit to replace the dryer vent. After it was done, he ... A: Interesting problem. It sounds like a wire came loose, or the plug is not making good contact in the ...
Garage Door Opener (GDO)	7/29/2008
Q: I had a motor "start" capacitor blown on my 20 year old model 2200 Stanley GDO. A replacement ... A: This sounds like a start capacitor. A run capacitor has an exact micro f. rating. A start capacitor ...
Need subpanel for new A/C system	7/27/2008
Q: I have an 8.5-yr old house with a 3.5 ton Goodman A/C system going bad. I have 2400 sq. feet and 2 ... A: Without seeing the job there is no way for me to estimate a cost. There are too many variables. ...
no power along one wall in garage	7/26/2008
Q: I have NO experience in wiring. I was working in my gagrage last week when I noticed that I had no ... A: It sounds like there is a good chance the breaker needs to be replaced. But the outlets need to be ...
Ground rods, GFI & Arc-Fault breaker questions	7/24/2008
Q: I am building a 24x60 (with 14x60 second floor) workshop next to my house and it is wiring time. I ... A: Ken, For the ground rods you should consult your local building inspector because each area can ...
Vent Pipe Shock	7/24/2008
Q: I am a journeyman electrician with years of troubleshooting experience. Recently a customer was ... A: What were the two vents for? Are the vents well grounded? Is one well grounded and the other not? ...
Wire capacities	7/23/2008
Q: Need a direct answer. After asking several electricians I am confused. I am installing a sub-panel ... A: If local codes are stricter than the NEC, the local codes supercede the NEC. Which is why it is good ...
Wire capacities	7/23/2008
Q: Need a direct answer. After asking several electricians I am confused. I am installing a sub-panel ... A: What is the subpanel rated for? You need to run the wire size that is appropriate for the rating of ...
Running electricity to an outside brick shed	7/22/2008
Q: i have just moved into a new house and have a brick shed which is about 3 feet from the main ... A: Drilling the holes is okay but you would need to run conduit. Anytime you have electrical wires on ...
Electrical Wiring problem	7/21/2008
Q: Not a home wiring issue but this is the closest I could find. Hope you can help. My neighbor has a ... A: It is possible that you have a loose or broken ground wire. Try plugging the motorhome into a ...
bad recptacle	7/21/2008
Q: I have a circuit in my house that that covers three rooms. Two rooms receptacles and lights work ... A: It is a good idea to have the bathroom outlet on it's own gfci circuit. However, it sounds like you ...
Breaker question & kiln	7/20/2008
Q: Greetings! I hired a professional electrician to add a 50 amp circuit breaker to my home service ... A: How long does the kiln run at (basically) 50 amps? If the kiln runs at 50 amps for 3 hours or more ...
220V electric shower	7/20/2008
Q: I will appreciate very much if you can help me with this problem : I´m a resident in a ... A: I looked at the manual, but I do not understand the language, and it appears that there are two ...
A problem I don't understand....	7/17/2008
Q: I removed all my basement lights and decded to install new ones. I installed new boxes and wire from ... A: Ground wires can have voltage due to voltage coming up from the earth through the ground rod, from ...
Moving ceiling light fixture	7/17/2008
Q: My current ceiling light fixture is not centered to our living room. I'd like to move it ... A: If you have good attic access then this is not difficult. You will need to run the romex from the ...
garbage disp and dishwasher	7/16/2008
Q: our switch for the garbage disp has been sticky latly and you have to really push hard to get it to ... A: It is possible that he tripped a gfci outlet or breaker. Check the kitchen and bathroom for a gfci ...
Switched outlet	7/15/2008
Q: I have an outlet with 4 receptacles, and power feeding the outlet box. one black, one white, one ... A: First you want to establish if the wires from the switch are hot or not. And you want to establish ...
Toggle switch connection to existing outlet	7/15/2008
Q: I have installed an exhaust fan under the eave of my house to vent kitchen smoke via existing ... A: You could replace the outlet with an outlet that has a switch, or you can install a cut-in box near ...
electrical - sockets and lights not working	7/14/2008
Q: Can you please help? In the bedroom: Lights for the closet and above the sinks will not come on. ... A: Were you experiencing a problem that caused you to mess with the electrical panel? Mosts likely a ...
circuit box	7/13/2008
Q: dryer not working - tried flipping switches in circuit box - 2 for kitchen had white test buttons - ... A: Yes, if the test button is on the circuit breaker it will trip the breaker. If a breaker trips for ...
circuit box	7/13/2008
Q: dryer not working - tried flipping switches in circuit box - 2 for kitchen had white test buttons - ... A: There should be a reset button for the two. If the reset button does not allow you to turn the ...
Lighting System for church outdoor Poster	7/12/2008
Q: Our Local church is planing to light up an advertising poster fixed on the outside part of the ... A: Wow, a lot to answer here. First I would suggest using a photocell instead of a timer. This way you ...
CEILING LIGHTS	7/11/2008
Q: I HAVE TO SAY I DO NOT KNOW MUCH ABOUT ELECTRIC. BUT I TURNED MY BREAKER OFF AND CHANGED FIVE LIGHTS ... A: Yes, ground can actually be hot. Which is why electricians are taught to use a voltmeter before ...
electrical panel	7/9/2008
Q: my 30 year old house had an old heater that had its own small box with two 220v circuits. I ... A: You will need to run it to the main panel. The existing 220v circuit has been broken down into two ...
Confused about wiring my new kenmore H2 Dryer	7/8/2008
Q: The dryer came with the standard three prong cord. Delivery guys said i had to buy the three prong ... A: Good question and I am glad you asked. The 4-prong is the way the National Electrical Code wants us ...
all home air fan	7/8/2008
Q: the fan is a few months old turns on, will run and then after a while shuts off, ckt breaker does ... A: Is it a "whole house" fan that takes air from the house and blows it into the attic, or an "attic" ...
Fixing a someone elses Mistake	7/7/2008
Q: Hey I was installing a new panel box in my 1938 home when I noticed something odd. I have a 220v ... A: You should check local codes because you probably do not have to have the 50a gfi disconnect fed ...
house wiring	7/7/2008
Q: have a 4" box with a three wire that controls my light on my stair landing also from this box comes ... A: Let me see if I understand this correctly. It sounds like your 3-wire switch is a 3-way switch that ...
Main breaker in subpanel keeps tripping	5/28/2008
Q: I have a lot of info to give so I will give the question first. The 2 hot bars in a breaker box ... A: When you rewired your house you should of updated the panel to 200 amp service. To answer your ...
loose neutral	5/28/2008
Q: The lights in my master bedroom dim and stay there when a small appliance such as an iron is ... A: It is not uncommon on older homes to have the lights dim when a clothes iron is plugged in on the ...
combo switch	5/27/2008
Q: "I am having trouble installing a new combo outlet...the outlet is a combo switch/outlet..I have ... A: You will need a voltmeter to do this correctly. Simply trying wire configurations is dangerous. If ...
Location of Breaker Box	5/26/2008
Q: I an currently living in Colorado and my wife and I are searching for a home. I've have noticed ... A: Charles, Where I live all main breaker boxes are mounted on the outside. We have no basements. ...
Oversizing electrical wire	5/25/2008
Q: I ran 10g wire for a Reiker Heater ceiling fan, designed to give out 5,000 btu of heat. Ten guage ... A: The 10 gauge wire is okay. The circuit breaker is there to keep the device from running at too high ...
Wiring a new receptacle from single-pole switch	5/25/2008
Q: I am trying to add a receptacle near a new work box that currently has a single-pole switch in it ... A: You will need to find out which black wire is the "hot" wire and which one feeds the light. Turn ...
Wall Switch on celing Fan	5/24/2008
Q: This gives me the option of speeds from "blow you away"...to "pleasant breeze". I'm the nervous ... A: A dimmer switch generates heat because it acts like a resistor in series with the fan. How much ...
Electrical Outlet Problem	5/24/2008
Q: I can not get a plug pulled out from an outlet. It is an outlet outside that my pool pump is ... A: Jen, It is possible that the prongs have fused themselves to the inside of the outlet, or they have ...
"Strange" Electical problems in my mobile home	5/23/2008
Q: I have the strangest thing going on here in my mobile home. On several occasions within the past ... A: John, it sounds like your problems are all related in some way. This really sounds like you should ...
Tankless Water Heater Wiring	5/22/2008
Q: I just bought an electric tankless water heater. The instructions say to run two separate 8/2 wires ... A: At 200 feet (100 feet each) you are at the limit for 8/2 so you cannot go to 10/2. If anything you ...
cooktop	5/21/2008
Q: I have a three prong 250V outlet for my old cooktop and just bought a new one that came with a four ... A: The NEC is trying to get us away from the old 3 prong system and converted over to the 4 prong ...
Switches & Receptacles	5/21/2008
Q: I am building a room in my son's basement and want to know how many receptacles & switches can I put ... A: Good question. Technically the outlets and lights should be on separate circuits. The number of ...
bathroom fan	5/20/2008
Q: i am trying to install a bathroom fan.The bathroom has two sets of lights operated by one ... A: You need to determine if the power is first going to the switch or to the light. If power is going ...
Low voltage at wall switch	5/18/2008
Q: A wall switch controls a porch light. It had been working. When it quit working i checked the ... A: What do you get hot to neutral from both sides of the switch with the switch in the "ON" position? ...
water pump to definite purpose (relay?)	5/17/2008
Q: I am installing a new Torrium water pump and water storage tank to replace mt 30 gal. bladder tank. ... A: It sounds like they are switching one leg of the 220 volt. Which is okay. It may be that you have ...
water pump to definite purpose (relay?)	5/17/2008
Q: I am installing a new Torrium water pump and water storage tank to replace mt 30 gal. bladder tank. ... A: L1 and L2 are the supply voltage from the source. You should have two hot legs and a ground. The ...
cooktop hookup	5/15/2008
Q: how to wire a new electronic control cooktop with 240vac 4 wire (red, black, white and green) to a ... A: Black, white, and ground (copper) is considered 2-wire with a ground. When used for 220 volt both ...
stove and miro wave hook up	5/15/2008
Q: i had a direct wire 220v to my stove 3 wire white,black,copper. bought a three wire plug hooked ... A: If these are separate appliances you cannot hook them both up to the same breaker. If you have ...
new light switch wiring	5/11/2008
Q: I have a switch that is at a end run and I wanted to add one more switch that would operate a hall ... A: You are switching either the neutral or hot leg for the existing lights and your new switch and ...
inground pool ground	5/10/2008
Q: I recently pulled out a cement slab in front of my pool that had to holes for a handrail in it. When ... A: Call either an electrician in your area or a building inspector right away to get the proper ...
Kitchen/Bathroom remodel and wiring	5/8/2008
Q: My wife and I are currently in the process of remodeling our kitchen. We do not plan on ripping out ... A: This is a good question because it poses a dilemma for many homeowners updating their houses. If ...
GFCI tripping	5/7/2008
Q: I have a GFCI next to my sink. My refrigerator is the only thing connected to it downstream. Small ... A: The first thing I would do is put the refrigerator on it's own 20 amp circuit. It should not be on a ...
Using a European espresso maker from Italy in the USA	5/7/2008
Q: I lived in Italy and purchased an espresso coffee maker and brought it with me to the USA. I got it ... A: Oh sure you can make it safe and pass code. Of course what you have now is really not advisable. ...
30 AMP OUTLET	5/6/2008
Q: I HAVE A TILE SAW WITH A NORMAL GROUNDED PLUG THAT NEEDS TO RUN ON A 30 AMP BREAKER. I AM GOING TO ... A: You did not say, but I will assume it is 115 volts. If so, 30 amp outlets are pretty common and most ...
Using a European espresso maker from Italy in the USA	5/6/2008
Q: I lived in Italy and purchased an espresso coffee maker and brought it with me to the USA. I got it ... A: 1)I am not familiar enough with the color system of the Italians to answer properly. If I had a ...
convert one three wire circuit to two circuits	5/5/2008
Q: At present, two fixtures on one switch are in parallel; so a three wire cable connects the two ... A: If you have three wire running from the switch to each fixture you can do this. Take the hot wire ...
dishwasher that may have caused an electrical problem	5/3/2008
Q: A wooden spoon dropped onto the heating element of our dishwasher while it was running. This caused ... A: Mick, Some dishwashers are on their own breakers, and just because a breaker appears to be on does ...
3 way switches	5/2/2008
Q: I'm installing some new lighting in a house and one of the dimmer switches burned out on me. I was ... A: The original switch has a "hot" leg coming to it and a "hot" leg leaving to feed the light. It is ...
gas to dual fuel range replacement	5/2/2008
Q: I am replacing a gas only slide-in range with a dual fuel one. The only wiring present now is a 40' ... A: John, Even though the bigger gauge wire is more expensive you are smart to be thinking ahead in case ...
3 way switches	5/1/2008
Q: I'm installing some new lighting in a house and one of the dimmer switches burned out on me. I was ... A: If the original switch had two wires (not including the ground) then it was not a 3-way switch. If ...
3-wire confusion	4/29/2008
Q: I'm finishing my basement and can't seem to successfully add 2 lights to the existing lighting ... A: It sounds like the black wire is being ran as "hot" all the way from the breaker to your switch. ...
jenn air cooktop	4/29/2008
Q: On my new jenn air cooktop stove, i am having trouble getting the grill warm enough to grill. We ... A: Are you sure it is 3-phase? 3-phase is mostly found in commercial buildings. 208 volts is at the ...
a/c circuit breaker hookup unusual question	4/28/2008
Q: Is this correct? A/C unit calls for a 50 amp breaker. Wire is a size 8 (3 wires and a ground inside ... A: You need to install a 50amp double pole breaker. You need 6 gauge for a 50 amp breaker. Two single ...
220 volt to 115 volt	4/25/2008
Q: I have a 220 single pole outlet (nema 6-15 plug) that I would like to convert to a 115 volt ... A: Yes, it should be easy. You should have two hots and one ground. You will keep one hot by keeping ...
Installing a Celling fan to a Switch Outlet	4/24/2008
Q: I have a switch that is connected to an outlet in my bedroom. I want to add a celling fan to this ... A: Without drywall work your best bet is Wire Channel or Wiremold. It is channel that goes on the ...
Outlet distance	4/22/2008
Q: We are trying to finish the basement in our house and I was wondering what the distance the outlets ... A: If a wall is 2ft or more it needs an outlet. From the beginning of a wall the first outlet must be ...
Converting a 110 outlet to 240	4/21/2008
Q: I'm purchasing a new washer/dryer that operate at 240V / 20amp. I've got an existing dedicated ... A: Good question. Usually a washing machine does not fall into the continuous load category, however ...
A/C Start assist kit	4/21/2008
Q: I need a little help here. I have been an a/c mechanic for about 25 years, but have forgotten how to ... A: I am wondering why you are not going with the "Kick-Start" or "Hard-Start" kit? Those are wonderful. ...
halogen lighting problems	4/20/2008
Q: I have a series of 3 halorgen pendants hanging in a series in my kitchen. Yesterday, one light went ... A: If they are truly in series then they are wired wrong. However, I suspect you mean that they are all ...
Install pump start relay	4/19/2008
Q: How do I install a pump start relay? I have a 240v irrigation well pump with 3 wires coming into the ... A: You should place the start relay as close to the pump as possible. If there is no box you can ...
electric space heaters	4/19/2008
Q: How many 1000 watt in-wall or baseboard heaters can be safely wired on (for example) a 20amp 120 ... A: A 240 volt load that does not require 110 volts only needs the black and white plus ground. ...
electric space heaters	4/18/2008
Q: How many 1000 watt in-wall or baseboard heaters can be safely wired on (for example) a 20amp 120 ... A: One on the 120volt circuit and Three on the 240 volt circuit. These would be considered "continuous ...
Motion sensor with multiple lights	4/17/2008
Q: I have a building that I would like the lights to come on when someone comes in the door and then ... A: If you were happy with the system but it draws too much power for the sensor I would suggest adding ...
Water Wire HOT	4/17/2008
Q: The wire to my water heater gets extremely hot (too hot to hold) when it is in heating mode. ... A: My first thought is why are you holding a wire to your water heater? Second thought is what gauge is ...
Second Meter Base	4/14/2008
Q: I have a small metal working business in my home and feel that it uses a good portion of the total ... A: If your shop is separate from the home they should allow this. But I am sure you can see their ...
Sub panel fusing	4/13/2008
Q: I'm planning to install a sub panel to feed a fridge, kitchen plugs, and a dishwasher. Based on ... A: The first thing you need to do is make sure your main panel can support the extra load you are ...
Split Circuit with shared neutral and ground	4/13/2008
Q: Due to some issues with the wiring in my house I have found I am mapping the whole house and ... A: Yes it is allowed, if you mean having two branch circuits sharing a neutral. Yes, you can. It is ...
Wiring a Ceiling Fan w/ dimmer switch and motor control on the wall	4/12/2008
Q: There are similar answers to this question, but I think I have a unique problem here. I want to ... A: The best way to do this is to run another cable from the fan to the switch. Remove the existing ...
please help	4/11/2008
Q: We just moved into a new place. When we attempted to plug a light into an outlet here, there was a ... A: Forget saving your landlord the cost of an electrician and save yourself a lot of trouble by calling ...
Running out of ideas	4/11/2008
Q: I have checked our panel box,switch and outlet power and light bulbs and one trip to the attic. My ... A: Sounds like a perfect candidate for a tripped gfci outlet or breaker. If it is an outlet it will ...
GFI Keep Popping	4/9/2008
Q: Ok, so we bought a refigerator (used) on Craigslist a couple weeks ago. Previous owner said it was ... A: The first thing to do is not plug it into a GFCI protected outlet, ever. Refrigerators, and other ...
home wiring	4/8/2008
Q: last week lightning struck near my house and shut the power off. The power came back on quickly ... A: You should see if there is a gfci outlet controlling those outlets, it may be tripped. Plus, you ...
pendant light	4/8/2008
Q: I just ordered two pendant lights (hanging from the ceiling) and found out they are plug-in. Do you ... A: You have a ceiling cover that the wires fit through and if it is the proper ones for the new lights ...
conversion of power	4/7/2008
Q: I've ran the 220 line and set up the recepticals and had them checked by my local electrician for ... A: You need to look at the nameplate, which I am assuming you have not because you are guessing at the ...
Dryer sparked when plugged in	4/7/2008
Q: I have a maytag electrical clothes dryer that is about 9 years old. It was making a loud noise, my ... A: Lani, I believe the lint trap is in the front so I am concerned when you say he took off the back ...
flickering lights, popping noises,	4/6/2008
Q: I truly hope you can help me! My wife and I have an older home with a 100 amp service. Last night, ... A: The loose neutral certainly could of caused what you described. It is possible that the utility tech ...
conversion of power	4/6/2008
Q: I've ran the 220 line and set up the recepticals and had them checked by my local electrician for ... A: The frequency of a load is only important to certian devices. For instance, an incandescent light ...
flickering lights, popping noises,	4/5/2008
Q: I truly hope you can help me! My wife and I have an older home with a 100 amp service. Last night, ... A: A bad (loose, corroded, etc) main neutral at the panel is connected with every circuit and can cause ...
flickering lights, popping noises, "hot electric" smell	4/5/2008
Q: I truly hope you can help me! My wife and I have an older home with a 100 amp service. Last night, ... A: Mike, This definitely needs to be checked out by a qualified electrician. Is PP & L the utility ...
Comination switch recptacle	4/2/2008
Q: Currently in a 2 gang box I have the garbage disposal switch and a regular duplex receptacle each on ... A: Are you just adding an outlet? In other words, you still have the duplex and now you have a ...
New Circuit	4/1/2008
Q: Mr. Hughes I am adding a 15 amp breaker to my box. It will run about 25-40 feet to the circuit. The ... A: Justin, These are all good questions and I am glad you asked before doing the work. Your outlets ...
My light will not turn off / even without the switch	4/1/2008
Q: Stupid of me... I changed a fixture and during my re-wiring, the light's GROUND cable hit the live ... A: Allan, We need to retrace a bit first. How many wires are in the light fixture box? It is possible ...
Current With Circuit Breaker Off	3/31/2008
Q: Is it possible for a circuit to retain or carry a residual or parasitic charge even when the ... A: Gary, please do not use an aluminum ladder to do electrical work, instead switch to a fiberglass ...
Lighting fixture	3/31/2008
Q: "My new light fixture has clear wire. I have read conflicting - opposite- information on the web ... A: Technically it does matter for safety's sake. However, because it is AC and not DC it will work with ...
220 plug for hook up of a dryer	3/30/2008
Q: in my kitchen i had a stove they removed the stove we want a dryer there but the 220 wire that was ... A: You will need a voltmeter to check which two are the "hot" legs and which one is the neutral. The ...
Arching	3/30/2008
Q: My daughter just moved into a single family home. When pluggingin the gas stove circuits in house ... A: You have done the right thing by calling out a professional electrician. This sounds like a ...
double pole gfci circuit	3/29/2008
Q: I hope that you can help me with this question. I pulled 4 #12 thhn wires to my bathroom, with the ... A: I do not know why you want two independent outlets. The only reason I can think of is that you are ...
how to size a panel	3/28/2008
Q: i have a friend that wants to change out his panel from a 100 amp servise to a 200 amp servise but i ... A: 100 amp panel use to be the standard, but with all the new appliances and loads a lot of people are ...
Pendant lighting	3/25/2008
Q: Is there a rule of thumb to hang pendant lights.I feel the previous owner hung them in the wrong ... A: They are generally hung in the center over the counter to light up the countertop. Generally they ...
Thermostat duel fuel	3/23/2008
Q: I have conventional heating and a heat pump and I wanted to put a programmable thermostat in. I ... A: Honeywell makes good products. What you need is a heatpump t-stat. Keep a record of what you just ...
Amperage Question	3/22/2008
Q: I was wondering if you could assist. I originall asked Rick Meill a question about roughing in the ... A: Lets go back to the start. According to the NEC, your bathroom outlets cannot be shared with any ...
adding single pole switch for under cabinet light	3/20/2008
Q: I am adding hard-wired under-cabinet light fixtures in my kitchen. I want to use a single-pole ... A: Justin, You will need to add what we call a "pig tail" to one of the black wires and one of the ...
cook top replacement	3/19/2008
Q: I replaced a cook top in my kitchen. The old wiring was standard 12 2 110v, the new cook top ic 220. ... A: Are you replacing a gas cooktop with an electric cooktop? You can use the existing circuit as long ...
Wire Warm to the Touch	3/18/2008
Q: Greg, Is there any reason one lone wire should be warm to the touch when all other wires coming from ... A: Most likely it is either drawing more wattage, or it runs more continous than the others. There is ...
wiring question	3/17/2008
Q: I have little wiring knowledge so bear with me, in a bathroom I am trying to switch a ... A: Aaron, Thanks for the picture it helped me see what you were saying. Actually this has been wired ...
new light fixture	3/17/2008
Q: i have just replaced one light fixture in a hallway with another and rewired the new fixture the ... A: There are about 12 different ways to wire a 4-way switch circuit. What I need to know is how the ...
Lights Dimming, then brightenning - Really worried!	3/16/2008
Q: I live in a rental apartment, that is likely 50+ yrs old now (not sure exactly). I have put a call ... A: Your local utility company may be of some assistance, so you might give them a call. I do not know ...
Tap an existing electrical wire	3/14/2008
Q: I'm installing a steam shower. The steam generator requires a 110V/30A power supply. Nearby in the ... A: Norman, I have never used those on anything more than 24 volts, and I probably would not. But you ...
Bathroom H-F-L-NL rough in question.	3/14/2008
Q: Can you give me some guidance on roughing in my bathroom? I bought my house with an unfinished ... A: BC, If you are in the United States, this is not up to code as I understand what you are ...
New wiring	3/13/2008
Q: I had a contractor install a new Jacuzzi tub which required 220. The existing location had 110 ... A: There are several issues to this. To answer you first question; This is how 220 volts is made when ...
Lights Out	3/11/2008
Q: My boyfriend was painting the kitchen and had all the outlets unscrewed from the wall he hit the ... A: The best way to diagnose is with a voltmeter. If you do not feel "qualified" enough to stick a meter ...
No power to rooms.	3/11/2008
Q: I'm having a problem with no power getting to neither my sister's room, nor the bathroom (they're ... A: Two things to check. First see if there is a gfci outlet in the bathroom. There should be one and ...
wiring to a triple switch	3/10/2008
Q: Please could you help. I am trying to connect 2 individual kitchen lights and an outside light to a ... A: The back of your triple switch should have a common on one side and three terminals on the other ...
clicking sound in wall	3/8/2008
Q: At night while lying in bed I hear a clicking sound coming from the wall. It appears to be coming ... A: You could try turning of the breaker to that outlet one night and see if it goes away. More likely ...
light switch/outlet	3/7/2008
Q: I have a light switch (for light above kitchen sink) and an outlet in the same receptacle box. I ... A: My best guess is that one of the wires came loose in a wire nut (cap). With that many wires in one ...
WIRING NOT SHUTTING OFF	3/6/2008
Q: I remodeling my basement. i placed 7 can lights in the ceiling and would like to have these on a ... A: Mike, Unless these are high wattage heat lamp bulbs 30 amps is too much. They should be on a 15 amp ...
Jacuzzi bathtub wire.	3/5/2008
Q: I am installing a Jacuzzi bathtub which requires a 120 VAC, 15 AMP, 60 Hz dedicated GFCI protected ... A: Dan, I would recommend running pvc conduit on the outside of the house, and installing a gfci ...
Installing new light fixture	3/4/2008
Q: I had our handyman Tyler come to our 10-year-old house (purchased by us in the fall of 2007) to do ... A: You are correct, the power was ran to the fixture and then the hot leg was sent down to the switch ...
Light fixture	3/3/2008
Q: I am trying to install a light fixture with a 3 way switch, but I am not sure where the wire from ... A: Tony, It sounds like power is coming in one switch and the other switch is being fed through your ...
faulty breaker	3/1/2008
Q: I have an old breaker I'm trying to replace the only writing on it is CB SWP it is a single pole 15 ... A: Yes take it with you and it only matters if the breaker itself is gfci. It would probably be better ...
Ground Rods	3/1/2008
Q: Have upgraded old service from 60 amp to 100 with new disconnect and panel box.How many ground rods ... A: You need one ground rod and you will need to ground the water pipes. Check with local codes to see ...
range cord	2/29/2008
Q: we have a 40-amp range, and can only find 50-amp cords at Home Depot. is it okay to attach a 50-amp ... A: Will it work? Yes. Technically, the wire size should match the outlet rating. Will it cause a ...
Hot wire, very hot.	2/29/2008
Q: I bought a new over the range micro/convection oven with a 110v plug. The previous fan/light hood ... A: Those are not meant to be hardwired, hence the cord. So that is the first thing gone wrong. Next, ...
no power to GFI outtlet in bathroom	2/26/2008
Q: the GFI went out and we replaced it but there is still no power to the outlet. The circuit breaker ... A: Your follow question needs to be more specific. Do you have power at the wire on your circuit ...
no power to GFI outtlet in bathroom	2/25/2008
Q: the GFI went out and we replaced it but there is still no power to the outlet. The circuit breaker ... A: Pull the outlet out of the wall and check with a voltmeter across the two wires. If you have power ...
Failing miserably at installing a light fixture	2/25/2008
Q: I have done a lot of research and I'm not too goo ith terminology but I'll try my best here. I spent ... A: Mark, It sounds like you need to connect to red and white at the light fixture. Here is a quick ...
Wiring in our home	2/23/2008
Q: We have a new construction and have noticed that whenever I run the vacuum the lights dim. Is that ... A: Yes, it could be an indication that something is not correct. The outlets should not be on the same ...
100A subpanel	2/22/2008
Q: We are finishing our basement and one electricians quote includes installing a 100A subpanel, the ... A: Patti, A subpanel is used when you either need more room for breakers than the box has, or you need ...
multiple fixtures	2/1/2008
Q: we are stuck!! we got two 3way switches with 3 light fixtures between them...HOW DO WE WIRE IT WITH ... A: This has a level of difficulty to it. 3-wire is black, red, white and ground. 2-wire is black, ...
Range Wiring	2/1/2008
Q: I moved into a home built in 1981. The range area in the kitchen had no receptacle. It had a armor ... A: You mentioned that you have 4 wires. Two hots, a neutral, and a ground. You said the ground and ...
Circuit problem	1/31/2008
Q: I've been using a lot of electricity on one particular circuit (my room). I was using the tv, ... A: Your question is not aimed at the source problem and that is you are overloading your circuit. ...
Range Wiring	1/31/2008
Q: I moved into a home built in 1981. The range area in the kitchen had no receptacle. It had a armor ... A: If you want to bring it up to the newest code you will need to install a 4 prong plug and a 4 prong ...
InGround Pool wiring	1/29/2008
Q: I am in the process of running a feed line to a pump house located near the pool. I have read ... A: A portable spa has a breaker in the main panel and then a gfci breaker in the disconnect located ...
Tracklights burning out.	1/29/2008
Q: i'm a new j-man electrician in canada, so im doing some trouble shooting for my sisters place. but ... A: Tracklights are very specific in what can be used and the allowed wattage. Often people put in a ...
Short circuit in a Jenn Air Range	1/28/2008
Q: Hughes, I have read your answer on another Jenn-Air range, 4 to 3 wires conversion, but, while very ... A: From your explanation it does not appear that you did anything wrong. It sounds like the 110 volt ...
Arc Fault Circuit Breakers	1/27/2008
Q: We are in the final phases of purchasing a house built in 1940. During the home inspection, our ... A: With the wiring is in this condition it sounds like a whole house rewire is in the near future. If ...
Outlet/light combo	1/27/2008
Q: I built a room in my basement and I want to wire lights in it. I would like to use the same power ... A: Be careful to not overload any of the circuits. Find out what is on the circuit you would like to ...
electrical panel	1/26/2008
Q: I have a 3 panels with 3 separate 50 amp services coming into my RV home. 1 for the heat pump, 1 ... A: If you run the washer and dryer at the same time you will be pulling almost 30 amps. The new water ...
TRipped Circuit Breaker, no devices plugged in, no wire ends touching	1/24/2008
Q: In the process of remodelling my kitchen, I removed the cabinets from the walls. To get one cabinet ... A: First turn the breaker all the way to the "off" position and then try turning it to the on position. ...
240v hookup	1/23/2008
Q: I had a professional rewire my new home, and install a laundry in the basement. I decided to make a ... A: The two things I suggest you do is to buy a voltage tester and remove the wires from the circuit ...
Dimmer Switch 2 black wires and One Green	1/23/2008
Q: I bought this a few years ago, and never got it installed and am without packaging (surprise!) I ... A: The markings indicate the type of wire used. Your old switch should have two wires connected to it ...
Adding an Outlet for Plasma TV	1/22/2008
Q: "I have an electrical outlet that I am trying to add a new outlet to use for a 50" plasma ... A: Are you installing the outlet in the upper half of the wall? Since you already have a refrigerator ...
Breaker size for small appliance	1/21/2008
Q: I was planning to install a small 500watt base board heater (240V) I have a 240V line on a 50amp ... A: Your base board heater does not meet the requirements to be fed directly from the range. Your ...
SUB PANEL	1/21/2008
Q: GREG THANKS FOR TAKING TIME TO HELP. I HAVE A REMODEL OF A KITCHEN. WE HAVE REMOVED THE OVEN STOVE ... A: Can you replace two of the 15 or 20 amp breakers with a "twin" breaker? It is a thin version and has ...
Ceiling Fan wiring	1/14/2008
Q: I am replacing a ceiling fan/light combo unit and didn't pay close attention to how the original ... A: Take the white wire that is paired with the "hot" wire and connect it with the white wire from the ...
Ceiling Fan wiring	1/13/2008
Q: I am replacing a ceiling fan/light combo unit and didn't pay close attention to how the original ... A: Your best thing to do now is purchase (if you don't own one) a tester. Separate all the wires and ...
110v apliance on 230V socket	1/13/2008
Q: I am a fellow volunteer at allexperts.com, though of a very distinct area of knowledge: Dentistry. ... A: Looking back I thought the bulb was rated at 125 volts, but I now see that the extender is rated at ...
Garbage disposal wiring	1/12/2008
Q: I have a new garbage disposal with a white and black wire. The old disposal was connected to a ... A: Sometimes the electrician leaves 110 volt at one of the two outlets at the double outlet, and the ...
26 volts on turned off breaker	1/10/2008
Q: Live on an island, solar/wind house for collecting power inverter used to produce AC, house is wired ... A: Charles, There are several things to look for. Check for voltage coming from your ground rod up ...
possible defective residential electric meter	1/9/2008
Q: We started reading our meter several times a day when our bill became unreasonably high and found ... A: The digital meter will not act like the older type that you could watch spin. There is a product ...
Extension Cords	1/8/2008
Q: You have seen the craze on christmas lights beening set to music.. Well I joined the club. But I do ... A: It is a little late for Christmas but I like the idea. There is wiring that is rated for outdoor ...
warm electrical receptacle / brackish wires	1/8/2008
Q: in our home there are no gfi receptacles. i noticed that the bathroom receptacle is warm when it ... A: The most likely culprit is an overloaded circuit. However, it is possible that the outlet is worn ...
electrical trouble	1/7/2008
Q: I was trying to install a ceiling fan when I touched to wires that apparently didn't go together. ... A: Check to see if the GFCI outlet in your bathroom tripped. It may be in a different bathroom if you ...
WELDER WIRING OUTLET	1/7/2008
Q: the breakers are a double-throw(barred-together) am i to believe the wiring is 10-3 not 12-2 ... A: Eric, I would not assume that the wires are 10 gauge and they would not need to be 3 wire for a ...
rewiring	1/6/2008
Q: My aged parents have been told they probably need their 5-bedroom house rewired. I know this ... A: No need to apologize for the length, it helps me give better advise. Since this is happening to the ...
rewiring	1/5/2008
Q: My aged parents have been told they probably need their 5-bedroom house rewired. I know this ... A: Hmmm, just how long is a piece of string? It sounds like you already know my answer but I will go ...
wiring a heat pump to breaker box	1/3/2008
Q: i recently purchased a heat pump and the electric installing was not included in the install , i ... A: Is this a wall unit, split system, or package unit? You mention two breakers in the furnace, are ...
Lights dim and bright	1/3/2008
Q: House built in 1920's New wiring added 2 yeaars ago with new breaker box. I turned on the washing ... A: It appears to be your whole electrical system that is affected. The voltage needs to be checked at ...
240 Volt Wall Heater	1/2/2008
Q: Have purchased a 240 V wall heater and already have 240 v. run to the location. The wireing is red, ... A: You can open up the circuit breaker panel and see if the black and red are connected to the double ...
220 and 110 for Washing Machine and Dryer	1/1/2008
Q: I have a stacking washer and dryer in a closet in a high rise apartment. The closet has a 220 ... A: The 220 volt outlet was intended for a combo unit that requires one 220 volt outlet. The internal ...
conduit	1/1/2008
Q: i need to run a new circuit from my existing panel to a new addition on the opposite side of my ... A: Check local codes you may not need to run the coax and phone line in conduit. If you do, then no, do ...
how to start an Air Conditioning and Heating business	12/30/2007
Q: My father and I are considering starting an Air Conditioning and Heating business in a small local ... A: Drew, you would be better served by contacting local HVAC companies and your local BBB. You might ...
Switch has 60VAC in off position	12/29/2007
Q: I just bought my house 6 months ago, and I'm in the process of redoing one of the bathrooms. Today ... A: It appears that you have reverse polarity somewhere. Meaning that your neutral wire is hot. Take ...
Converting 120/240 circuit to 240 only	12/29/2007
Q: How can I convert a 120/240 circuit with a Nema 14-30 receptacle in my basement to a 240 volt 30 ... A: In a 240/120 volt outlet you will have a black and red hot leg. The white is neutral and green/bare ...
Re: Rewiring a 110 lamp 220	12/28/2007
Q: We are building a house in Ireland and are looking to bring some lamps from the US. Are we able to ... A: I believe a simple plug adapter will work for you since the load is purely resistive. Check the lamp ...
Installing a ceiling fan	12/27/2007
Q: My husband and I just bought a new ceiling fan for our bedroom. Previously, we had been using a ... A: In residential wiring "red" is never, ever used as ground. There are standards for wiring and those ...
breaker burns and smokes	12/26/2007
Q: I had a new furnace and heat pump installed 12 months ago. everything was working fine until 2 weeks ... A: Quickly get a qualified electrician familiar with mobile homes to check out your electrical system. ...
Oven and Cooktop wiring	12/25/2007
Q: My house was built in the early '80s. We will be installing a new cooktop and built-in oven soon. ... A: It will save you money by not installing an outlet and cord for your built in oven so that is good ...
Gas range	12/24/2007
Q: My contractor installed my gas range (convection oven gas burners); manual says to use 125/250 volts ... A: The manual states that you need 125/250 volts and your contractor said that 110 volts "would ...
thermostate replacement	12/23/2007
Q: I have an old thermostat with 7 wires. I don't know what to do with the "B" wire. can you help? ... A: The best thing to do is trace the "B" wire and find out what it feeds or being fed from. Usually it ...
King Wall heater	12/23/2007
Q: im wanting to install a king wall heater and run it off 220volt,but there is only 110V supplying a ... A: You cannot connect to that light switch or light fixture to feed a heater. You did not mention the ...
Garage Heating Solution	12/23/2007
Q: I just can't figure out what to do and I was hoping you could help. I've installed a 240V heater in ... A: I would install a relay with a 220 volt coil that closes the circuit to the 110 volt fan circuit ...
Main breaker haphazardly trips	12/23/2007
Q: I am having a problem with the main circuit breaker in my apartment. Once in a while, it will break, ... A: It sounds like you need a bigger main breaker, however you can only install one if the supply wire ...
open ground at receptical	12/22/2007
Q: Can you install a GFI receptical in a circuit that has an open ground and be in code? A: Yes. You have to mark the receptacle (on the outside so anyone can see) that it is ungrounded. Most ...
shop wiring	12/22/2007
Q: I recently bought a house with a small work shop. The problem I'm having is the receptacles only ... A: The first problem I notice is that the breaker is over rated for the wire size. That is a code ...
hot water heater	12/22/2007
Q: we have changed the elements and the thermastats on our hot water heater, but still don't have hot ... A: Have you pushed in the "reset" button on overtemp protection? If you feel qualified, measure the ...
Burned up line voltage thermostat	12/21/2007
Q: I had electric baseboard heat in a room addition and the 240 volt line voltage thermostat melted the ... A: The breaker will trip if an overload of current passes through it. From your explanation I am not ...
both my outlet holes are live	12/21/2007
Q: I added a bunch of outlets to my house recently when we were remodeling and we just realized that ... A: How are you testing to see if they are "live"? This would mean that you disconnected a neutral and ...
three cable confusion	12/19/2007
Q: I am trying to move the location of the switch (which was in a very inconvenient spot) in the ... A: Since you did not mark the wires when you removed the switch you will need a voltmeter to be able to ...
Space heater wiring	12/18/2007
Q: We keep tripping the fuse when we use a new space heater. We have tried different outlets.One on a ... A: Your voltage will play a part in how many amps are pulled. But in any case your 15 amp circuit ...
Single Circuit Rewire, PVC Conduit Use	12/17/2007
Q: I have a quick question. I am rewiring a single circuit in my home (one of the last which was ... A: 1. Use the gray PVC found in the electrical department along with the glue that is made especially ...
Outdoor lighting with motion detection	12/17/2007
Q: I want to install outdoor motion sensor light, but also want to control the same light from an ... A: Most outdoor lights with motion sensor have a way to turn them on at the switch without motion ...
Electrical clothes dryer	12/17/2007
Q: I'm renting a house with a hook up for a gas dryer. I own an electrical dryer. i want to hook up my ... A: You have two choices. You either buy a gas dryer, or you get the landlord to run a 220 volt circuit ...
220v circuits	12/15/2007
Q: When I moved to the US from the UK I brought all my 230V woodworking tools with me - in the hope ... A: Gareth, Actually they are both single phase. Here in America the norm is 120 volts supply and in ...
200 amp to 400 amp service upgrade?	12/15/2007
Q: I also sent this question to another moderator in this forum but since then noticed that you have ... A: Ken, Adding up the breakers in the panels is really of no value since they are rated above what the ...
Oven wiring	12/13/2007
Q: I am installing a KitchenAid double convection oven. The pigtail has 4 wires, black, white, red and ... A: This would not pass code today. Not all inspectors pay close attention to detail so this could of ...
heater	12/13/2007
Q: if i my heater is not heating and I have a light blinking on and off on my circuit board, what does ... A: It means that your board detected a fault. A certain amount of blinks in a row tells the technician ...
Changing a ceiling fan into 2 flush mount light fixtures	12/13/2007
Q: G., I have a client that needs me to change a ceiling fan into 2 flush mount light fixtures on the ... A: It depends on where you want the lights. If they have to be in an exact location and other than the ...
Changing a ceiling fan into 2 flush mount light fixtures	12/12/2007
Q: G., I have a client that needs me to change a ceiling fan into 2 flush mount light fixtures on the ... A: Flush mount refers to a light that hugs the ceiling. You should be able to simply remove the ...
Electric baseboard heater problems	12/11/2007
Q: I just bought a condominium constructed 20 years ago. There was a 1000 watt 208V baseboard heater ... A: It could be a partially tripped breaker. The best way to check is with a voltage meter. Put the two ...
Battery Preservation	12/10/2007
Q: Since one usually has to buy batteries at a store in packs, how can I store the batteries I don't ... A: Batteries generally do not like extremes (hot or cold). I am assuming we are talking about AAA, AA, ...
wall mounted switch	12/9/2007
Q: A: This is a good question. If you are remodeling a house for little people, or people in wheel chairs ...
light fixture wiring	12/6/2007
Q: i am installing a new light fixture in an old house. the new fixture has a black wire, a white wire ... A: Take the two black wires and connect them to the black wire of your new fixture with a wirenut. Take ...
Having two dryers in one home	12/4/2007
Q: I have two dryers but only one plug. Is there a plug made to run both dryers on the same circuit, ... A: You might get away with it if they are both GAS dryers. But if they are electric, you will not be ...
Furnace Motor Wiring	12/2/2007
Q: I do understand my motor has different speeds, but if I only connect White to white, and Blk to Blk, ... A: Most home owners should not mess with the speed of their furnace blower motor. The speed needs to be ...
lights dimming when other loads start	12/2/2007
Q: We are experiencing a problem with lights dimming in our home. When other loads such as microwave, ... A: Your symptoms all point to either low voltage, too many loads on one circuit, or a loose neutral or ...
outdoor electrical outlet	12/2/2007
Q: I am trying to plug up my Christmas lights and they won't work from any of the outlets on the ... A: They should be fed from a GFCI outlet or GFCI breaker. If you look in your breaker panel and find a ...
Follow up to question I asked of Will Babbit	12/1/2007
Q: I assume you have access to my question but basically, I have an 3hp, 11 amp, single phase, 230V ... A: Jeff, I do not have access to your original question. Is this a dedicated line to your planer? ...
20 amp outlet	12/1/2007
Q: Sir: The A/C I'd like to install has a 20 amp plug. Is it possible to replace the existing outlet to ... A: If you are trying to plug it into a 15 amp circuit than you need to run a new circuit for the A/C or ...
Adding a sub-panel	11/30/2007
Q: Greg, I am adding about 500 sf to my house and will be adding a sub-panel for the new circuits. I ... A: To do it correctly a "Load Calculation" needs to be performed on your existing circuits with the ...
Wiring Question	11/29/2007
Q: Greg, I recently bought a new house and had a quick question regarding the wiring of the Electric ... A: Martin, First find out what the requirements are for the oven. If the oven requires a 30 amp ...
grounding...	11/28/2007
Q: We have a 2 1/2 yr old modular on a full concrete basement. Ever since, we had a water issue, with ... A: On top of your tank you will find a large nut. Under that nut lies the anode. You will need to turn ...
grounding...	11/27/2007
Q: We have a 2 1/2 yr old modular on a full concrete basement. Ever since, we had a water issue, with ... A: Mike, You did the right things by grounding the pipes and installing the correct connectors from ...
wiring pot lights	11/27/2007
Q: I`m was wondering about wiring 6 pot-lights in a 20-10 rec room. its a drop ceiling, the ? is when ... A: Your first light should have two wires coming in (hot and neutral). Connect these to the wires of ...
Hot to touch Ceiling light fixture	11/25/2007
Q: I have a flush ceiling light fixture in kitchen. It smells hot and is hot to touch.I was up in crawl ... A: When you say "flush" are you referring to a "recessed" light fixture? If so, there are basically ...
change a circuit breaker	11/25/2007
Q: I have a circuit breaker that has gone bad. A little bit of smoke comes out of it when it is on so I ... A: Most breakers place the model number on the side of the breaker so you cannot read it until you ...
Outdoor light on 20 amp circuit	11/24/2007
Q: I goofed when I rewired my home. I wasn't thinking and tapped of a junction box for lighting in one ... A: Putting a j-box concealed in the wall is against code. Running the wire diagonally in the wall is ...
Aux Electrical Panel	11/23/2007
Q: I want to install an aux electrical panel in my basement for new basement shop power, game room ... A: You do need a 100 amp breaker in the main panel to feed the subpanel, and you need a separate ground ...
Outdoor light on 20 amp circuit	11/22/2007
Q: I goofed when I rewired my home. I wasn't thinking and tapped of a junction box for lighting in one ... A: Is it unsafe? You need to wire it correctly and protect it from weather. The difference between a ...
Wall Oven installation	11/21/2007
Q: We have purchased a new frigidaire wall oven, which has the standard 4 wires ( a red, a black, ... A: I am not sure where you live and I do not know local codes. However, if it were me with this set up ...
Thermostat	11/19/2007
Q: If my digital programmable thermostat is showing the correct room temp and date/time but won't turn ... A: The problem with jumping at the furnace is that you have not ruled out a broken wire between the ...
Installing a dimmer switch	11/19/2007
Q: Hey Greg, This might be a simple question but I have to ask, novice here. I am installing a dimmer ... A: Yes, you have a 4-way switch. (I deleted my remarks about advise given from "shelf stockers" about ...
Thermostat	11/18/2007
Q: If my digital programmable thermostat is showing the correct room temp and date/time but won't turn ... A: Most digital t-stats show they are calling for heat (usually in the form of an icon), this is what ...
New Home electrical Panel	11/18/2007
Q: I am building a new home approximately 2500sf main floor (incl garages) 2000 top floor and 2000sf ... A: A lot will depend on whether you use gas or electric for your big loads (heater, water heater, oven, ...
Installing a dimmer switch	11/18/2007
Q: Hey Greg, This might be a simple question but I have to ask, novice here. I am installing a dimmer ... A: Does the original switch have four posts (not poles) or two? If it has two, and the two red ones ...
New light fixtures are tripping the breakers	11/17/2007
Q: I am replacing two wall sconces with new ones. The old fixture was a type A the new ones require ... A: The Type of bulb refers to the shape of the bulb. You should have more info than Type A, or B, or C. ...
thermostat replacement	11/16/2007
Q: Good evening. I wish to replace my 19 year old Lennox heat pump thermostat with a Honeywell ... A: Rick, Lennox did their own thing when it came to wire color and naming standards. So their units do ...
Electrical Outlet problem	11/16/2007
Q: I have an electrical outlet in the kitchen that the toaster will not work in. I can plug in a lamp, ... A: It sounds like the plug from the toaster is not making good contact with the prongs in the outlet. ...
residential light switch	11/15/2007
Q: We have lived in our 1960's built 3 bedroom story and a half for 20 years. About 10 years ago I ... A: What type of light bulb are you using? If it is incandescent, you may need to replace the switch. ...
circuit problem	11/14/2007
Q: I was running a tale saw when the circuit went dead. The beaker did not trip, though I have since ... A: If this is A/C current you do not have a positive and a negative. You have what we call a "hot" and ...
Breaker panel	11/14/2007
Q: I am buying a NEW house in Texas. Is there any particular reason that the circuit breaker panel for ... A: In warmer/milder climates it is not unusual to have your main panel mounted outside. Where I live I ...
Main Panel	11/13/2007
Q: I have a 200A main service panel (installed & inspected new in 1981). It is Sylvania panel with ... A: I found this in the question pool and thought I would address it because it is a very, very popular ...
Ceiling fan question	11/13/2007
Q: I purchased a new home and recently installed a hunter ceiling fan to a pre-wired junction box. ... A: Doug, You had two wires from the two switches (one for the light, and one for the fan) correct? ...
Electrical Outlet issues	11/11/2007
Q: Recently had some electrical work done to the house. All in all, went well, but I have one ... A: Douglas, a good way to find out if you hired a great electrician is to call them back out on ...
fusebox	11/11/2007
Q: last night the plug sockets in my house all stopped working. The overhead lights continued to work. ... A: You either have a circuit breaker that no longer works correctly, or you have a short in that ...
A 100 year old house.. to buy or not to buy?	11/10/2007
Q: My husband and I are facing a relocation to the Chicago area in a few months and are toying with the ... A: Chicago has some great pocket areas and I love the city (to visit that is). I lived just outside ...
sub-panel install	11/10/2007
Q: I'm renovating a 500 sg' room above the garage. There is 200 amp service in the main house with a ... A: The 10 gauge will not pass. It would be for a 30 amp breaker only. Instead of adding up the ...
replacing an old wall oven and cook top with a 1 piece combo	11/8/2007
Q: I am in a 40 - 45 year old house. The breaker box is the infamous federal "no blow" pacific. I have ... A: Not knowing exactly all that is involved I cannot really comment on the estimate. I do not have the ...
electrical	11/5/2007
Q: is it normal for lights to dim when i start the vaccum cleaner in the same room? A: It is not suppose to be normal, however it is not uncommon. Many homes have the receptacles and ...
Outlet replacement - 4black wires and 1 shite	11/3/2007
Q: I've replaced almost all of our outlets, some have 2blk/2wht with 1 ground, some are 1blk/1wht. Now ... A: No need for another outlet. Take two black wire and pig tail it (wire nut) with a small piece of ...
Electric Cooktop wiring.	11/2/2007
Q: I just swapped out A Jenn-Air Electric Cooktop for a New Kitchen-Aid Unit. My Power supply is 3 wire ... A: Wires from breaker panel to the cooktop: Black should be one power leg from breaker. Red should be ...
Honeywell visionPRO th8000 thermostat	11/1/2007
Q: I have the ab