Bad Wiring

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Electrical, Electrical Boxes & Wiring, Tips

Electrical wiring should always be installed by a licensed electrician and inspected by your local wiring inspector. Your house or apartment may be inadequately wired if: Lights dim and motors slow down when an appliance goes on; Fuses blow or circuit breakers trip...

Securing Cords

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Electrical, Electrical Boxes & Wiring, Tips

In locations where furniture or beds may be pushed against an extension cord where the cord joins the plug, use a special “angle extension cord,” which is specifically designed for use in these instances. Don’t use staples or nails to attach...

Lightning Paths

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Electrical, Electrical Boxes & Wiring, Tips

There are three main ways lightning enters homes and buildings: (1) a direct strike, (2) through wires or pipes that extend outside the structure, and (3) through the ground. Regardless of the method of entrance, once in a structure, the lightning can travel through...

Home Theater Wiring

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Electrical, Electrical Boxes & Wiring, Tips

Avoid flat-topped staples for running speaker wires along the walls — they can sever the wire’s insulation. Cables that come with your home theater set aren’t likely to be top-quality — plan to upgrade.

Pond Safety

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Electrical, Electrical Boxes & Wiring, Tips

If your planning a backyard pond, locate it where it is unlikely to attract unattended children. Check local safety ordinances to determine if a fence is required for the specific depth and size of your pond. Check local building ordinances for depth and safety...

Hands Off Pipes

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Electrical, Electrical Boxes & Wiring, Tips

In many houses, the electrical system is grounded to the water service entrance pipe. Since the entire plumbing system is connected to that pipe, be careful not to come into contact with plumbing pipes when you’re working on electrical repair tasks.