FAQ’s
Why shouldn’t I hire my next door neighbor to do the remodel project I’ve been contemplating? The safety and structural integrity of your home are paramount in importance. substandard or dangerous work will decrease the value of your home and increase the risk to you and your loved ones. A through knowledge of electrical codes, adherence to standards of craftsmanship, and a knowledge of the principles of electricity will result in a beautiful, safe and effective environment for you to live and work.
Much of the service work electrical contractors get called out to do involves substandard and dangerous work that was done by unlicensed contractors and handymen.
What is a ground fault circuit? Circuits or outlets protected by G.F.C.I. devices (outlets or circuit breakers) are designed to protect people from electrocution where water is present or where there is a danger of coming into contact with electricity while being “grounded”. G.F.C.I. stands for ground fault circuit interrupter. The instantly cut the electrictity when they sense the flow of electricity through an abnormal path, ie you.
What is an arc fault circuit? Arc fault circuits are protected by A.F.C.I. breakers (arc fault circuit interrupters) which sense an undesirable arc in the circuit and interrupt the flow of electricity. Arcing is a condition which produces heat and fire and is the cause of many structure fires.
Why do the lights in my home or building dim or flicker occasionally or unpredictably? There are many different potential causes of this condition including loose electrical connections, large electrical loads in the structure coming on line (air conditioning systems, motors, irons, etc.), and even external system conditions (the neighborhood and your electrical serving utility). The only way identify the source of the problem here is to contact a liscensed, knowledgeable, and experienced, electrical contractor.
I have aluminum wiring in my house, is it safe? Aluminum wiring is safe if it is installed properly but it does require maintenance attention that copper wire does not. Call a liscenced, qualified electrician if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- sparks, smoke or noise comming from switches or outlets
- circuit breakers that trip for no apparent reason
- outlets or lights that stop working
- outlets or switches that are hot to the touch
What can I do to protect electrical equipment from lightning damage? Whole house surge supression devices are available and can be installed by qualified electricians. They offer the best protection from lightining strikes and power surges.
