FAQ’s

Overload is the most common reason for tripping. Too many things are plugged into the circuit. Short circuit is another reason. Possible cause of short circuit is faulty wiring.

A GFCI is an abbreviation for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. It is a specially designed outlet normally used in wet locations to protect an individual from electrical shock. A GFCI measures the resistance on the “positive” and negative” loads connected to it. If there is more resistance in either of the two loads the GFCI trips. The electrical code requires that GFCI’s be installed in all kitchens, baths, and laundry areas, garages, and on the exterior of a building. Older homes may not have them in these areas it is advised that they be installed since it is a life safety issue.

A surge protector protects against surges, spikes, lightning, etc. Surges may come down the utility line, thru the phone line, thru your cable, from within the home or nearby. A surge protector on your panel is the first line of defense in protecting your expensive electronics and appliances. The surge protector may sacrifice it’s self to protect your electrical system and electronic equipment from surges. Secondary protection comes from the simple plug in type you can get at Home Depot or Lowes. We live in the lightning capital of the world. It is advised that you have surge protection on your panel.

The outlet is most likely a GFCI outlet. These outlets usually have a reset button on them or on an outlet that is on the same circuit. The outlet may need to be reset. Check all outlets in the bathrooms, kitchen, laundry room, garage and exterior of the home for a reset button. First thing to do is push the reset button in if that doesn’t work you may need to turn the breaker all the way off then all the way back on and then push the reset button in.

Recessed lights are supplied with a thermal cut out. Because the fixture is inside your ceiling, it is important that excessive heat from the bulbs not cause a fire, the thermal cut out acts as a thermometer i.e. when the heat reaches a preset temperature, it will disconnect the electricity. After the fixture cools down the electricity will be reconnected. To avoid this problem check the recess can for a sticker that gives the maximum wattage light bulb to be used in the fixture. Use the specified wattage or lower never use a higher wattage bulb.

A flickering light could be the symptom of several problems. It could be a loose connection in the circuit. If all the lights in your house seem to be flickering it could be a problem outside the house or in the panel. You should have a licensed electrician check it out.