Lighting, Outlets, and Circuits
We often don't stop and think about the electricity that we use every day, but everything from our garage door openers to our computers, to the lights in our homes - they all run on an electrical current. As a homeowner, it's important to understand what an electrical circuit is, where it can be found in your home, reasons people experience trouble with their electrical circuits and things to consider when you need to install or repair the circuits in your home.
What is an electrical circuit?
An electrical circuit is most easily described as a closed path through which an electric current flows which is formed by the interconnection of electric components, such as your lighting components and outlets.
Why do you need electrical circuits?
Electrical circuits are necessary for providing the electrical current for all of the power outlets and for the lighting fixtures that we use in our homes and offices each day. Without an electrical circuit, we would not be able to power the outlets, turn on the lights, enjoy our HDTV sets, surf the net on our computers or take a relaxing dip in our jacuzzi or spa.
Common problems with circuits
One of the most common problems with branch circuits is when circuits are overloaded by using common branch circuit to power appliances that need isolated reciprocated power. Another problem is when tampering by an unqualified workman performs work on a circuit that they are not qualified to perform. About 90% of the trouble calls that we receive, about 90% of them are due to tampering by an unqualified workman. In these situations, we've seen $100,000 kitchens with electrical system problems that could not be remedied without remodeling/rewiring/reworking the electrical circuits again. Since wires can't be seen after the job is complete, it is easy to think that everything is ok until the electrical system fails.
Things to consider when you install new circuits or repair existing circuits
When considering adding a circuit, the routing, distance, amount of load, space in the panel and the amps available are all paramount to the success of the improvement. Another common problem is overloading any branch circuit, as; each branch has a specified purpose and if you exceed the limitations the circuit will fail. When repairing a circuit, the most important thing is to troubleshoot the reason why it has failed including: circuit over-loading, poor workmanship, poor quality of electrical parts, water damage from leaking roof or stucco, and tampering by a non-qualified workman. Make sure that a qualified licensed contractor like Norm Galyean Electric is performing your electrical work!
If you're experiencing a problem with your electrical circuits or if you have a home remodel or other project requiring the expertise of a seasoned electrician, please contact us today!