Tag Archives: faulty wiring

Schaffhouser Electric Licensed Electrician

Keep Your Home Safe By Using Only Licensed Electricians

Home Electrical, , ,

Anyone can go online, find a how-to guide for installing a light switch or performing rewiring, and get to work. Unfortunately, injury to the individual or the home often results. Cutting corners with this work jeopardizes the safety of the home and those who live within it. Electrical installation and repairs should only be undertaken by a licensed electrician or electrical contractor.

Faulty wiring turns the home into a fire hazard. Novices do not realize the interdependent network that electrical wiring represents. A poorly designed circuit can provide the wrong amperage to appliances and electronics, causing irreparable damage. Lights placed on an overloaded circuit may flicker when appliances are in use or trip the breaker, completely shutting down the circuit.

It is not difficult to find a qualified electrician and a state license is the first indicator. A master electrician also has two or more years of experience and has passed a standardized occupational test. This individual is well-versed in the National Electrical Code and any state modifications. Electrical system planning, design, installation, and maintenance are tasks that a master electrician may perform.

A journeyman electrician also has a state license but has not yet qualified for the master’s license. This individual can install equipment and wiring but may not design systems. Some states require a journeyman electrician to work with a master. In addition to these degrees of expertise, some electricians specialize, focusing on commercial or residential work, new construction, repair, or remodeling.

Consumers can find recommendations for electricians from a local electrical supply house or home builder association. To get an electrician who is the best fit, they should describe the type of work required. Interviewing the electrician, checking references, and asking for proof of insurance and a copy of the state license helps identify the best professional for the job.

 

 

Schaffhouser Electric Wall Outlet

Signs of Possible Problems with Your Home Electrical Wiring

Home Electrical, , ,

The electrical system is something that is very scary for homeowners, and they do everything they can to avoid dealing with it. However, remember, you do not have to address the problems yourself; you just need to know how to spot them so you can call in an electrician to help you fix them. Here are some common electrical warning signs and want they mean.

  • Flickering Lights in Windy Conditions – more than likely, there is frayed wiring where the outdoor wiring comes into the home. This is called the weatherhead. This is not only annoying, but it is also very dangerous, as it can start a fire if left alone. Your first contact should be your utility company, as the weatherhead should fall under their responsibility.
  • Not Enough Outlets – if you find that you are constantly using extension cords and power strips, you may want to check around your home to make sure that you actually have enough outlets throughout the home. Newly constructed home are required to have an outlet every twelve feet, but older homes will be grandfathered in. There is no real danger here, but you do run the risk of injury with so many extension cords lying around.
  • Constantly Popping Breakers – if you find that your breakers are popping with normal use, there may be too many electrical lines wired to a single breaker. There may have been some short cuts taken by a previous homeowner or contractor. Each room should be wired to its own breaker. If this is something you are unable to check on your own, call in a licensed electrician to inspect the home wiring.

These are just a few of the basic challenges homeowners will find when dealing with their home electricity. Older wiring, as long as it is still in good condition, is still safe in your home. However, if you are seeing signs of wear, it may be time to call in a professional to address these issues and get your home up to current code.