Category: Electrical

A short circuit is an abnormal connection between two nodes of an electrical circuit that are meant to be at different voltages. This results in an excessive electric current that can cause circuit damage, overheating, fire, or explosion. Short circuits are usually caused by faults in wiring, poor insulation, excessive current, or external factors like…

When designing and installing the electrical system for a kitchen, there are specific circuit requirements that must be followed to ensure safety and functionality. Proper planning and adherence to electrical codes will provide enough power to run all necessary kitchen appliances and lighting, while reducing the risk of tripping breakers or overloading circuits. In this…

A main circuit breaker is the primary overcurrent protection device found in an electrical service panel. Its purpose is to protect the home’s electrical wiring from damage due to overloads or short circuits. Understanding what a main circuit breaker is and how it works is important for any homeowner. What is a Main Circuit Breaker?…

Installing electrical wiring and equipment in bathrooms requires careful planning and execution to ensure safety. The National Electrical Code (NEC) contains specific guidelines for electrical installations in bathrooms that are designed to prevent electric shock and electrocution hazards. Following NEC bathroom electrical requirements is critical for passing inspection and creating a code-compliant, safe bathroom environment.…

Having an upside-down outlet can be annoying and look unsightly. More importantly, it can pose a safety hazard if devices plugged into the outlet become loose and fall out. Fortunately, fixing an upside-down outlet is usually a quick and easy job that most homeowners can tackle themselves. What Causes an Upside-Down Outlet? There are a…

Wiring electrical outlets and switches is an essential skill for any homeowner or DIYer. While it may seem intimidating, with the right materials and safety precautions, you can successfully wire outlets and switches in your home. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through the entire process step-by-step, from turning off power and gathering materials…

Splicing electrical wires is an essential skill for any DIYer working with electrical circuits. Properly splicing wires ensures safe, reliable connections in lighting, appliances, outlets, switches and more. While it may seem intimidating, splicing wires is actually quite straightforward with the right materials and techniques. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to…

Choosing the right type of electrical wire is critical for any electrical project. With so many options available, it can be confusing to decide which type of wire is best suited for the job. This comprehensive guide will walk through the six most common types of electrical wire and what applications each one is best…

Removing a circuit breaker safely is an important process that requires care and caution. Circuit breakers control and regulate electricity in your home, protecting wiring and devices. When removing a circuit breaker, it’s essential to take steps that prevent electrical hazards, fires, and injury. With proper precautions, you can remove a circuit breaker yourself. Turn…

Introduction Replacing a single-pole light switch is a relatively simple DIY electrical project that most homeowners can tackle. A single-pole switch controls a light fixture from one location, like a hallway or bedroom. Replacing this type of switch only requires basic tools and some electrical knowledge. With proper precautions, safety gear, and by following the…