FAQ
COMMON ELECTRICAL QUESTIONS:
Q: What is a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter)
A: A GFCI measures the current flowing through the hot and neutral wires of the circuit. This device is for the safety of persons from electrical shock.
Q: How do I reset my breaker?
A: Normally when a breaker trips, it does not go all the way to the "off" position It only goes about halfway. You must turn the breaker all the way in the "off" position then turn it back on.
Q: Why do breakers trip?
A: Breakers trip because of either a malfunctioning breaker (in this case have a trained electrician replace the breaker,) or there could be a short in the circuit. Shorts can cause fire and damage to equipment and/or persons. Do not continue to reset and use circuit until the problem has been identified.
Q: My receptacle outside does not work, but the breaker is not tripped. What is next?
A: Outdoor receptacles must be GFCI protected. They may be connected to a GFCI receptacle or a GFCI breaker.
Q: My lights are flickering?
A: There are many potential causes. If changing the light bulbs do not solve the issue, consult with an electrician.
Q: My switch is HOT when I touch it?
A: Wall switches that are warm to the touch may have bad connections. With dimmers, the wattage of the total connected lights may be more than the dimmer is rated for or the dimmer may not be rated for that type of light bulbs.
Q: Half the lights in my house are not working?
A: Usually there is a Main breaker that is not functioning properly. Check to see that all other breakers are on. Consult with an electrician.
Q: I bought a new dryer and it is not getting hot and drying clothes?
A: Dryers (in residential situations) usually require 240 volts. In order to achieve 240 volts from a 120 volt Service, it takes two circuits. If one circuit is not connected correctly or the breaker is malfunctioning, the dryer motor can run for short time, but will burn up. Also, the cord could be connected incorrectly.
Q: Are Federal Pacific breaker panels considered to be a fire hazard?
A: YES
Q: Is Grounding really important?
A: YES
COMMON ELECTRICAL QUESTIONS:
Q: What is a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter)
A: A GFCI measures the current flowing through the hot and neutral wires of the circuit. This device is for the safety of persons from electrical shock.
Q: How do I reset my breaker?
A: Normally when a breaker trips, it does not go all the way to the "off" position It only goes about halfway. You must turn the breaker all the way in the "off" position then turn it back on.
Q: Why do breakers trip?
A: Breakers trip because of either a malfunctioning breaker (in this case have a trained electrician replace the breaker,) or there could be a short in the circuit. Shorts can cause fire and damage to equipment and/or persons. Do not continue to reset and use circuit until the problem has been identified.
Q: My receptacle outside does not work, but the breaker is not tripped. What is next?
A: Outdoor receptacles must be GFCI protected. They may be connected to a GFCI receptacle or a GFCI breaker.
Q: My lights are flickering?
A: There are many potential causes. If changing the light bulbs do not solve the issue, consult with an electrician.
Q: My switch is HOT when I touch it?
A: Wall switches that are warm to the touch may have bad connections. With dimmers, the wattage of the total connected lights may be more than the dimmer is rated for or the dimmer may not be rated for that type of light bulbs.
Q: Half the lights in my house are not working?
A: Usually there is a Main breaker that is not functioning properly. Check to see that all other breakers are on. Consult with an electrician.
Q: I bought a new dryer and it is not getting hot and drying clothes?
A: Dryers (in residential situations) usually require 240 volts. In order to achieve 240 volts from a 120 volt Service, it takes two circuits. If one circuit is not connected correctly or the breaker is malfunctioning, the dryer motor can run for short time, but will burn up. Also, the cord could be connected incorrectly.
Q: Are Federal Pacific breaker panels considered to be a fire hazard?
A: YES
Q: Is Grounding really important?
A: YES
