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home grounded properly

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April 20, 2020 at 9:00 am

Home Grounded Properly For Home Safety

Is Your Home Grounded Properly?

As a homeowner, you may have heard an electrician or home inspector talk about how important home grounding is. Even though you may not know it, this is an essential piece of your home’s electrical system. While you don’t need to be an expert, it’s important to have a general understanding of what this means as a homeowner to help you keep your home safe. Here are the basics you need to know about having your home grounded properly to avoid electrical issues.

What Does It Mean to Have Your Home Grounded?

When your home is grounded your electrical system has a backup pathway or alternative route for electricity to go back to the ground in the case of a fault. Essentially, it gives your appliances and other electronics a direct route to the ground. All electrical circuits in your home there are three wires: an active or live wire, a neutral wire, and a grounding wire. Grounding wires are routed to the service panel where they are attached to a set of terminals designed for ground connections.

Why You Need Your Home Wiring Grounded

Electricity, by nature, always seeks out the shortest path to the earth. Having your home properly grounded means there is a direct path to the ground in the case the neutral wire gets broken.

Stabilizes Voltage levels

Having your home grounded also helps distribute power throughout your home. With the grounding wire giving excess electricity a way to the ground, the circuits are protected from overloading. This is because the earth serves as a common reference point for all voltage sources, thereby stabilizing the voltage in your home’s electrical system.

Protects Against Electrical Overloads

At any time your home is at risk of having a high influx of electricity through a power surge or by being exposed to lightning during a storm. The grounding wire allows the excess electricity to exit the home into the earth without damaging your appliances or electronics. Without grounding, the extra electricity will cause irreparable damage to the wiring of your appliances throughout your home.

Prevents Damage and Death

If your home is not properly grounded, electricity will continue to seek out the shortest path to the earth. The grounding wire acts as a path of least resistance. Without this path, high electrical voltage can pass through your appliances and electronics. This will fry its wiring and damaging it beyond repair. If you use an appliance that is getting high electrical voltage you could be severely shocked, which could even result in death. Moreover, high voltage puts your home and your family at risk of having an electrical fire.

How to Tell If You Home is Properly Grounded

Determining if your home is properly grounding is part of the home inspection process. However, you can also test whether your home is properly grounded without a home inspection as well. The easiest way to check if your outlet is grounded is by visual inspection. If an outlet has three prongs, then there should be three wires, with one being the grounding wire. To make sure the grounding is working as intended you can use a circuit tester.

If the tester does not light up then the outlet is not grounded and it is not safe to use. If you’re still unsure whether your home is grounded, our team at Wire Craft Electric can help you confirm that.

Request an appointment or give us a call at 206-542-0208 to have one of our professional electricians give you a hand.

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outdoor electrical outlet tips

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March 23, 2020 at 9:00 am

Outdoor Electrical Outlets Importance and Safety Tips

With summer around the corner, your days of social distancing and self-isolation are likely filled with dreams of barbecues and backyard parties. Get your home ready to entertain by making sure your exterior outlets are safe. Outdoor electrical outlets are exposed to the elements and therefore, extra precaution must be taken to prevent fires and electrical shocks. Here are some tips for getting your outdoor electrical outlets ready for summer.

Install Weather Resistant Outlets

Installing weather resistant outlets is an absolute must! The National Electrical Code requires that all outside electrical outlets be weather resistant ground fault circuit interrupters (WR GFCIs). This special type of outlet has a cover that helps keep out rain, snow, ice, and humidity when installed correctly. Additionally, WR GFCIs use components that are corrosion-resistant and are designed to protect users from getting an electrical shock by cutting off the current if there is a surge. While these outlets are standard in newer homes, you may want to double-check your existing outside outlets if you are in an older home. If you do not have weather-resistant outlets, you’ll want to get them installed ASAP.

Check Your Wires

Keeping your outdoor electrical outlets also means checking your wires regularly. This will help you spot potential problems. Always make sure you untangle any wires. Additionally, you want to examine your wires for any nicks, cuts, or grays. These can all lead to problems and possible injury.

Lay New Wires Carefully

If you are installing new outdoor electrical outlets you need to be cautious as to where you lay the wire. You want to avoid laying wires in areas with high foot traffic, such as walkways and sidewalks. You should also avoid laying new wires near trees as well.

Keep Outlets Clear

It is also important that you keep your outlets visible. This means keeping grass, landscaping, etc. away from the outlet box. When you keep your outside electrical outlets visible you are less likely to forget they are there, preventing injury.

Watch for Water

Just as you want to avoid mixing outlets and water inside your home, the same is true outside too. Obvious places to avoid placing exterior outlets include near swimming pools, jacuzzis, or fountains. However, you also want to consider areas of your yard that tend to pool water or flood. Avoid putting any electrical work in these areas.

Avoid Storms

Another important point to consider in keeping your outdoor electrical outlets safe is to not use them during storms or rain. Using electrical appliances during storms puts you at risk of electric shock. Therefore, it is best to avoid using electricity outside during a storm.

Double Check Appliances and Extension Cords

When using appliance or extension cords outside, you should always make sure they are safe for outdoor use. This means double-checking the manual warnings for appliances and extension cords. If an appliance says “not for outdoor use” keep it indoors and avoid using it outside.

Get a Professional Opinion for Your Outdoor Electrical Outlets

If you’re confused as to whether or not your existing outside electrical outlets are weather-resistant, don’t hesitate to get a professional opinion. Our electricians at Wire Craft Electric can help you make sure you have outside outlets that are up to code through an electrical inspection. They can even help you install new outlets or do some electrical outlet repair if you’re coming up short.

Request a services and give us a call at 206-542-0208 to schedule an appointment to get your outdoor electrical outlets summer-ready.

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guide to gfci outlet

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March 9, 2020 at 9:00 am

Your Home Guide to GFCI Outlet to Keep Your Home Safe

If you’ve ever noticed that the outlets in your bathroom or near your kitchen sink are different from other outlets in your home, you’re not alone. Many people recognize that the type of outlet is different but don’t actually understand why. These outlets are GFCI outlets that automatically shut off power to the outlet to prevent electrocution. Here is a guide that will help explain what it is and why a GFCI outlet is important.

What is a GFCI Outlet?

GFCI is an acronym for ground fault circuit interrupter. The design of GFCIs interrupts the electricity’s flow to the ground to prevent electrocution. They look different from other outlets in your home because they have two additional buttons for “TEST” and “RESET.”

How GFCIs Work

Electricity will always try to reach the ground. When insulated wires are used, the flow of electricity can be directed. However, if there is faulty wiring or a damaged cord, electricity will find a path to the ground. In some instances, this can be a human being, which is when electrocution occurs. Because water is an excellent conductor of electricity, the combination of the two is especially dangerous (even deadly).

In normal circumstances, the flow of electricity remains steady. However, if there is a ground fault and electricity jumps to an unintended conductor there will be a surge in the flow of electricity. GFCIs have special sensors that monitor the flow of electricity. If a surge occurs, an internal switch in the outlet shuts off the flow of electricity. This prevents a prolonged surge, minimizing injury and preventing death.

Why do I need a GFCI Outlet?

Installing GFCIs is a smart decision since it is designed to protect you from getting hurt. However, there are several other reasons to consider putting in GFCI outlets in your home.

GFCIs are Mandatory by Law

Since the invention of and use of GFCIs fewer cases electrocutions are occurring. With evidence that they do work at preventing electrocutions, the switches are now included in the building code. This code mandates that builders only install GFCI outlets in any space within 6 feet of a water source. Over the years this has come to include more areas of the home including:

  • Bathrooms
  • Garages
  • Exteriors
  • Kitchens
  • Wet Bars
  • Crawl Spaces
  • Heated floors
  • Basements

 

GFCIs are only mandatory in older homes that requires wiring updates. Again it is still a good idea to install them anyways given their safety features.

Benefits of GFCIs

There are clear benefits to using GFCIs. These benefits include:

  1. Prevention of Electrical Shock. The automatic switch-off prevents you from the shock effect (preventing both injury and death).
  2. Prevention of Electrical Fires. A prolonged surge of electrical current can cause a spark, which in turn can cause a fire. Since GFCIs automatically stop such as surge from occurring, they help prevent electrical fires.
  3. Keeping You Up to Code. Installing these outlets is necessary for certain locations in the home and helps you make sure your electrical system is legal and meets all requirements of the building code.

How to Fix a GFCI Outlet that Isn’t Working?

It’s important to test your GFCI outlets regularly to make sure they are still working. This process is simple. All you have to do is push the ‘TEST’ button on the outlet itself. This will flip the internal switch and cut off electricity to the outlet. You should test your GFCI outlets once a month.

If you plug something into your GFCI outlet and find that it suddenly isn’t working there are a few steps you can take. The first step is to push the ‘RESET’ button on the outlet. This will flip the switch inside the outlet, allowing the electrical current to flow through the outlet again. In most cases, this will solve the problem.

If this does not solve the issue, then you’ll want to look at your breaker panel to make sure that you don’t have a tripped breaker. You can fix a tripped breaker by simply flipping the breaker. After doing this the outlet should start working again. However, if the outlet still does not work, it may be time to call in a professional to investigate.

Can I Replace a GFCI Outlet Myself?

Installing or replacing a GFCI outlet can be a do-it-yourself job. However, it is important to always remember that working with electricity is dangerous, so you must exercise caution on outlet installation.

To replace your GFCI outlet you’ll want to:

  1. Turn off power to the outlet at the circuit breaker panel.
  2. Remove the outlet cover.
  3. Make sure to remove also the old outlet from the outlet box.
  4. Remove the wires attached to the outlet, noting the color of the screws and color of the wires.
    • Black wire (HOT): connects to brass or gold screw
    • White wire (NEUTRAL): connects to the silver screw on the opposite side
    • Green/Copper wire (GROUND): connects at bottom of the outlet
  5. Attach the GFCI outlet in the same way you disconnected the old outlet. Leave the tape in place on the additional two screws on the bottom sides of the outlet since you only need it in advance for some other electrical setups.
  6. Attach the GFCI outlet to the outlet box.
  7. Install a new GFCI outlet cover.

 

If you are nervous or unable to figure out how to install a GFCI outlet, request for service and help from a professional electrician from Wire Craft Electric.

Give us a call at 206-542-0208 to talk to one of our team members to schedule an appointment today for some electrical inspection.

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electrical wiring 101

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February 14, 2020 at 9:00 am

Electrical Wiring 101: Do You Need to Update It?

Even though your home’s wiring may be the last thing on your mind, it’s important to stop and consider whether or not it’s time to update your electrical wiring. It’s easy to cover that your wiring may be out of date if your lights come on when you flip a switch. No one wants to update their wiring since it can be a costly and extensive job. However, you can minimize the pain of such a project if you get ahead of it with a bit of planning.

Why Update Your Electrical Wiring

Materials and building codes change with time to improve safety. Keeping your wiring up to date can keep your home from going up in flames given that faulty wiring is the number one cause of residential fires. It may be time to update your electrical wiring if:

  • Your home is 40+ years old
  • You don’t have GFCIs in your kitchen or bathroom
  • You repeatedly trip a breaker
  • Your lights flickering dim on their own
  • You have a lingering burning smell
  • Your outlets are warm or discolored
  • You get a light shock or tingle when using appliances
  • Your insurance refuses coverage or charges a higher premium for older wiring

Older Wiring

Older homes simply weren’t designed for the technologically advanced appliances that fill our homes today. This means that wiring in older homes is often only for 60amps, whereas newer appliances, like ACs, require upwards of 200amps. Not having enough voltage can actually damage your appliances, computers, and other electronics.

In addition to not having enough power, aluminum wiring was the standard wiring for homes built in the ‘60s and ‘70s. However, today we understand that this type of wiring is a safety hazard since it is prone to overheating and catching on fire. Older wiring is also subject to deterioration of materials such as wire insulation and damage from haphazard housework and rodents. To keep both your home and your appliances safe, it is advisable to upgrade to modern copper wiring. An inspection by one of the skilled electricians at WireCraft Electric can help determine whether your home needs its wiring upgraded.

Missing GFCIs

GFCIs, or ground fault circuit interrupter outlets, are designed to automatically cut off power if there is a spike in current. This helps prevent fires and electrocution. These outlets must be used with any outdoor electrical outlets, as well as in any other areas of the home where water is nearby. GFCIs are required in any home built in 1971 or later.

Tripped Breakers

Tripped breakers or blown fuses can quickly leave you in the dark. While it can be a pain, it can be especially problematic if it happens repeatedly. Breakers can trip for many reasons including electrical circuits overload, short circuits, or ground fault surges. This could indicate a loose wire, which if not addressed could cause a fire in your home. You want to get breaker issues looked at right away to keep your home and your family safe.

Voltage Trouble

Old wiring or damaged wiring can cause voltage trouble throughout your home. If you find that your lights are flickering or dimming when using a nearby appliance, it could be that your circuit is becoming overloaded. On the other hand, if you have a lingering burning smell in certain rooms of your home, you want to call an electrician right away to check your wiring. Even if you cannot physically see damage from your electrical outlets, your wiring could be close to causing a fire. The same is true if you feel a tingling sensation when using appliances. .

Home Insurance Coverage

It’s also important to carefully look at your homeowner’s policy regarding electrical issues. This applies especially if you are selecting a plan with a new provider. Many insurance companies will not provide coverage if your home has wiring that is 40+ years old. If they do offer coverage, they often do so at a premium. While upgrading your wiring can be an intensive job, looking long-term it can save you both time and money.

Planning to Update Your Home’s Electrical Wiring

Do you get overwhelmed at the idea of upgrading your home’s wiring? Take it as an opportunity to install wiring that will be long-lasting. With that, you can support the increasing electricity demands of our appliances.

The professional team at Wire Craft Electric will help make sure your home is safe and ready for the future. Call 206-542-0208 today to discuss your home’s wiring and to set up an appointment with one of our trusted electricians.

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electrical outlets childproofing

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January 24, 2020 at 9:00 am

Electrical Outlets Childproofing and What You Need to Know About It

With the modern electrical outlets used in homes today, the chances of child electrocution are low therefore electrical outlets childproofing should be considered. According to data, there are around 2,400 children suffer from shocks and burns from sticking things in outlets. These shocks and burns can be serious or even deadly. This is why it is so important to take the necessary measures to childproof your electrical outlets. The good news is that several options are available to keep your small children safe.

Why is Electrical Outlets Childproofing Important?

Children are curious by nature, especially once they are mobile and start moving around. As they begin to crawl they come face-to-face with electrical wires and outlets. Their instinct is to poke and prod to learn more about what they are finding. The most common way children do this is by sticking something (be it a utensil or toy) into the opening of the outlet. This is one of the top causes of electrocution in children in addition to biting into electrical cords or sticking things into electric appliances.

Electric outlets have between 120-240 Volts of electricity. The degree of harm that comes from a shock caused by this voltage can vary depending on the length of contact. While sometimes there may be minor injuries or burns, it can be deadly. This is why you need to carefully look at your electrical outlets and choose the best childproofing option available for your family.

Electrical Outlets Childproofing Options

The good news is that there are several options available for childproofing electrical outlets. Each of these options has its own level of safety, with some being better than others.

Outlet Plugs

Outlet plugs are perhaps the most well-known childproofing option for outlets. These are simply plastic plugs that plug into the outlet. They keep small children and toddlers from inserting anything into the outlet and getting shocked. You want to make sure that you purchase plugs that are large enough that should a child find one they do not become a choking hazard. While plugs are the easiest thing to implement, you must be diligent about replacing them once you unplug your appliance.

Outlet Covers

If you’re worried you’ll forget to put the plugs back in, you may want to consider using outlet covers. Two different kinds of outlet covers are helpful for childproofing. Both of these covers require replacing the existing cover plate.

Sliding Outlet Covers

Sliding outlet covers have an interior outlet cover that automatically closes over the socket holes once something is unplugged. This type of cover eliminates any concern over choking hazards or your child getting the plug out on their own.

Box Outlet Covers

This type of outlet cover is good for those appliances that stay plugged in. These covers go over both the plugs and the outlet. They come in different sizes to cover both small and large outlets. Using a box outlet cover means that your child will not mess with the plug itself. However, if the outlet is needed, the cover can be easily removed by an adult.

GFCI Outlets

GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets do not prevent a child from sticking something inside the outlet like plugs or covers. However, they are designed to shut off the electrical circuit if it detects an imbalance. These outlets should be installed in areas where there is water, such as your kitchen and bathroom. It is important to test these outlets regularly (even monthly) to make sure they are still functioning correctly. If working correctly, GFCI outlets will reduce the amount of shock a child may get from sticking something in the outlet. It is advisable to use GFCI outlets in combination with plugs or covers.

Combination Switch Outlets

Another option to consider when electrical outlets childproofing is a combination switch outlet. These outlets often use a tamper-resistant receptacle in addition to a switch. The switch can be used to turn off the outlet. Meanwhile, the specific type of outlet helps reduce the risk of a child inserting something into the outlet.

Tamper Resistant Receptacles

Even if you don’t use a combination switch outlet, you can install tamper resistant receptacles or outlets. While these outlets look like other outlets in your home, they are equipped with small spring-loaded plates that close the openings on the outlet. To open them, pressure must be applied equally to both sides of the outlet. This works to minimize the chance of a child inserting something in the outlet.

Note: Tamper resistant receptacles do not completely remove the risk of electrical injuries. It is still possible that a small child could receive an electrical shock or burn if they try to insert a plug into the outlet. Additionally, the child could be injured by whatever they plug in such as an iron, curling iron, extension cord, etc.

Safety First

The bottom line is that you want your child to stay safe through. Each of the options available for electrical outlets childproofing has its own benefits and comes with its own risks. It is important to evaluate your habits and to pick the best childproofing option that will work for your family. If you need help getting your home ready for your little one, our team at WireCraft Electric can help you install the new outlets you need to keep your family safe. You can also reach out to us for any electrical outlet repair. Request a services here or give us a call today at 206-542-0208 to get started.

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led lighting

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December 2, 2019 at 9:00 am

LED Lighting Guide: Do You Really Need It?

Over the last decade, incandescent lights have been replaced with more energy-efficient alternatives, including LED lights. If you haven’t made the switch to LEDs yet, here are some of the key things you need to know to help you decide if you really need LED lighting.

What is LED Lighting?

Unlike incandescent bulbs that use a filament, LED lights use a semiconductor called light-emitting diodes. This process is nearly 90% more efficient than incandescent bulbs. Because LEDs convert energy into light more efficiently, they are much cooler than incandescent. This can be especially important if you have small children or pets that may touch the bulb.

LED lighting also comes in several different shapes and sizes. The inherent nature of LEDs means they can be incorporated into fixtures as permanent light sources or can be retrofitted into existing fixtures. LEDs can be found in the traditional bulb shape, as tube lights, light strips, etc.

Are LED Lights Brighter Than Incandescents?

Brightness depends on how much wattage the bulb takes in and how many lumens it produces. LEDs produce more lumens per watt. This means the same wattage can have very different results with LEDs and incandescent. A good point of reference is that 1600 lumens are nearly the equivalent of a 100-watt incandescent light bulb.

Do LEDs Have Blue Light?

Modern LEDs typically come in 2700 Kelvin, which is a “warm white” similar to traditional incandescents, or in 3000 Kelvin, which is still a warm tone, just slightly whiter. It is possible to get LEDs in 3500 or 4000 Kelvin, which offer a whiter light. However, whiter light means bluer light.

Can I Use LEDs With Any Fixture?

LEDs can be used with most fixtures that have standard E26 (medium base) or E12 (candelabra base) sockets. As LEDs become more popular we will likely see more socket sizes that are compatible.

Can I Use LEDs With a Dimmer Switch?

Not all LEDs are dimmable. If this feature is important you must first check the LED fixture and make sure it is dimmable. You also need to make sure it is compatible with the dimmer you have. Most dimmable LED fixtures require a specific type of dimmer switch.

Most dimming LEDs only adjust the lumen output as opposed to making light warmer. However, “warm dim” LED fixtures are quickly being introduced in the market.

How Long Do LEDs Last?

LEDs last longer than an average lightbulb. An LED’s average lifespan is 20,000 hours versus an incandescent or halogen bulb that lasts, on average, 2,000 hours. This means your LED bulbs could last 20+ years if the bulb is only used a few hours a day.

How Much Can I Save With LEDs?

LED bulbs are more expensive upfront, but cost less to run overtime. LEDs are far more efficient, using fewer watts. This in turn drastically reduces the cost of running the bulb. On average, homeowners could save around $600 a year switching to LEDs.

Are Incandescent Bulbs Legal?

The phasing out of incandescent and halogen lights was to begin being phased out in early 2020 as part of energy legislation implemented under President George W. Bush and finalized under the Obama administration. However, in late 2019 President Trump rolled back this requirement for energy-efficient light bulbs. This means that incandescent and halogen bulbs are still legal, for now.

So, Do You Need LED Lighting?

Currently, nothing is mandating that you switch to LED lights. However, LEDs are becoming increasingly popular and subsequently more affordable. If you are concerned about your electricity bill or the environment, switching to LED bulbs can help you with both. If you are concerned about converting your home from traditional lighting to LED lighting, you don’t have to do it alone. The professionals at Wire Craft can help you come up with the best solutions to make your home’s lighting more efficient. Contact our professionals now.

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space heater

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November 4, 2019 at 9:00 am

Space Heater: 8 Home Safety Tips This Winter

While space heaters are an effective way to warm up your room in the winter, the reality is that they can be extremely dangerous and must be used with caution. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), space heaters are responsible for 5 out of 6 home heating fire deaths. To keep your family and your home safe this winter, it’s important to know how to use a space heater safely. Here is a list of precautions and tips to follow when using a space heater in your home:

1. Not all heaters are created equal

You want to make sure the space heater you are using has a tag saying the model has been seen and listed by a big testing lab or agency. Also, it is essential to spend the few minutes it takes to go through the instructions and warning labels.

2. Check your space heater for damage

Every year before you use your space heater inspect it for any signs of damage. You want to check for any loose connections, broken plugs, and any other signs of wear or damage. Don’t try to repair it. It is safer to replace the heater if any damage is found.  or is otherwise worn or damaged.

3. Err on the side of caution

If your space heater is a bit older, seriously consider getting a newer model. As technology improves, new safety features are often included, such as automatic switch off, WiFi connected to Alexa or Google, etc. This provides additional protection and can help prevent fires. The cost of a new heater is far cheaper than your home catching on fire.

4. Never leave the heater unattended

Think of your space heater as a candle with an open flame. You never want to leave it unattended. If you need to leave the room, always shut it off. Yes, the room may cool off in the meantime, but it’s safer than something accidentally catching on fire without you there to act immediately. Staying nearby is also important to keep children and pets away from the heater. If they get too close they could get seriously burnt.

5. Don’t multitask with your heater

Your space heater should only be used to heat your room. It is not meant to warm your bedding or dry your clothes. You should keep the heater at least 3-feet away from anything that could possibly catch on fire. This includes bedding, socks, any items of clothing, rugs, paper, etc. A good rule of thumb is to keep your space heater away from your windows and your bed. This will prevent anything from accidentally getting too close.

6. Installation

Your heater should ideally be on a flat surface. Always plug it directly into the wall socket. Never use an extension cord or power strip for a space heater! Also, make sure you avoid plugging in anything else in the same outlet. Using an extension cord, power strip, or plugging in more than a heater into a single outlet can lead to overheating, blown fuses, and even fires.

7. Use alarms and detectors

If you have any kind of heater or flame in your home you must have a smoke detector. This is your first line of defense in getting out of your home if a fire starts. You can also get smart alarms that alert your phone as well. This can help you stay in touch with your home even if you are not physically there. Smoke detectors and alarms should be installed on every floor (even every room) of the house and test them regularly, even during summer months. Also, have a fire escape plan and make sure every family member knows it.

8. Put it away

Once the warmer weather comes back, unplug your space heater and put it away. You don’t want anyone bumping or turning it on without knowing. Taking care of it right away will help prevent any accidents from happening.

Better Safe Than Sorry

If you are unsure about the safety of your heater you can always contact a professional at WireCraft Electric to check it out for any space or even electric heater repair. Give us a call at 206-542-0208 to talk with our team of professionals about your concerns. With a quick inspection, they should be able to tell you if the heater is safe to use. Otherwise, simply play it safe and invest in a new one.

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types of electrical outlets

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October 7, 2019 at 9:00 am

Electrical Outlets: 9 Types That You Should Know

Ever wondered why the electrical outlets in your bathroom are different from the ones installed in your bedroom? No, it’s not just because they were bought and installed at different times. Each type of electrical outlet has a purpose, with some being more modern and up-to-date than others.

Here are ten different types of electrical outlets you should know in your home:

  1. 2 Prong Outlets
  2. 3-Prong Outlets
  3. GFCI Outlets
  4. Switch/Outlet Combos
  5. 20 Amp, 125 Volt Outlets
  6. 20 Amp, 250 Volt Outlets
  7. Tamper Resistant Outlets
  8. Recessed Outlets
  9. USB Outlets

#1 2-Prong Electrical Outlets

Few appliances and electronics use 2-prong plugs anymore. These outlets are typically 15 amp, 125 volts. They are only used with ungrounded circuits. Modern homes no longer use 2-prong outlets due to coding requirements and safety concerns. However, you can still find these outlets in older homes.

#2 3-Prong Outlets

These outlets are some of the most common in modern homes. Like 2-prong outlets, the 3-prong outlet is also 15 amp, 125 volts. 3-prong outlets are far safer than their counterparts with 2-prongs. This added safety comes from the extra slot for grounding. This grounding works to prevent electrical shock from any loose wires.

#3 GFCI Outlets

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are required in any area that is close to water. This includes bathrooms, kitchens, laundry areas, outdoors, or any other area near water. This is because the outlet automatically trips, cutting off power to equipment, if there is any leak or spike in current. These outlets are easily recognizable by their two different colored TEST and RESET buttons in the center of the outlet.

#4 Switch/Outlet Combos

If you need the functionality of both a switch and an outlet, a switch/outlet combo is the perfect multi-functional solution. Without having to run additional wiring or install a new electrical box, a switch/outlet combo lets you have both a switch and an outlet in a single unit. These combos are especially helpful when you need to keep plugs away from pets and small children.

#5 20 Amp, 125 Volt Outlets

Some appliances require more power than others. This is where 20 Amp, 125-volt outlets come in handy. You can tell these outlets apart from other 3-prong outlets by the small horizontal slot on the top-left vertical slot on the outlet. These outlets are often used with large electrical appliances and are specified by electrical code.

#6 20 Amp, 250 Volt Outlets

When you need lots of power, look for a 20 amp, 250-volt outlet. These outlets are less common in homes, but necessary for high voltage appliances like air conditions and air compressors. You’ll want to make sure you have the proper circuit before installing them. Also, always make sure to check the specifications on your appliance before plugging it in. Some air conditioners require an even stronger 30 Amp outlet. If you’re not sure, always check with an electrician.

#7 Tamper Resistant Outlets

Tamper-resistant outlets or tamper-resistant receptacles (TRRs) have been required by code since 2008. These outlets are some of the safest due to the internal shutters that block foreign objects from being put into the outlet. The internal shutters will only open with a 2-prong or grounded plug. Using TRRs helps prevent children from getting shocked by tampering with the outlet.

#8 Recessed Electrical Outlets

If you’ve ever had to keep a gap between your furniture and the wall because of a plug, you know how frustrating it can be. However, recessed outlets aim to fix this problem. Recessed outlets are newer outlets that are pushed into the wall. This means the space that a plug would normally take is absorbed into the wall. This removes the gap between the wall and furniture and ultimately gives you more space in your room.

#9 USB Outlets

Lastly, USBs are in high demand with all of the different devices that need charging daily. It can often seem like there simply aren’t enough outlets once all of the chargers get plugged in. This can be avoided by using new USB outlets. Instead of the traditional pronged outlets, USB outlets provide several USB ports for your cell phones, tablets, and other electronics to charge.

Which Type of Outlet Do I Need?

You want to make sure that your outlets meet current electric codes. This means that if you are installing new outlets you’ll need GFCI outlets near water sources and TRR outlets. As far as installing combo outlets or USB outlets, it comes down to personal preference and needs. You’ll also want to check your appliances and make sure you have the proper voltage. If you are unsure of whether your outlet will work with a new appliance, check with an electrician. The electricians at WireCraft electric can tell you if your outlet and circuit are strong enough. Before you attempt to replace or change any electrical outlet, please remember that working with electricity can be dangerous. Therefore, unless you are sure of what you are doing, it is always best to work with a trained professional on electrical outlet repair. Call us at 206-542-0208 today to set up an appointment.

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home electrical inspection

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September 23, 2019 at 8:00 am

What’s Involved in a Home Electrical Inspection 

Most home electrical inspection in the Seattle area requires three safety inspections: cover, service and final. For convenience, we would suggest having your electrician’s service and make these appointments for you. However, you can also schedule these inspections yourself if you want to undertake the permitting process. 

Cover Inspection

Once all new circuits are wired, schedule the cover inspection. Do not cover any work with insulation, receptacles or wall switches because you have to wait until the work has been approved.

Do not cover trenches, ditches or slabs either since cover inspections also include underground installations. In other words, be patient and comply.

Service and Feeder Inspection

This inspection follows the installation of any electrical masts, meter bases, grounding electrode conductors, and branch circuits. 

Final Inspections

This inspection follows the completion of your electrical work. More importantly, you must have all equipment and appliances installed. Also, it has to be grounded and energized for final inspection. Make sure all the covers are in place and circuits are labeled. 

What Inspectors Look For Home Electrical Inspection

All electricians must adhere to the National Electrical Code (NEC) as well as any local or state regulations. All states have different codes which is why your electrician needs to have a license in your state. 

Electrical inspectors look for a plethora of potential safety hazards. You may be able to see some of these issues yourself.

The best electricians know how to comply with local standards so the inspections should be straightforward. Some of the things inspectors look for include are: 

  • Damaged or frayed wires 
  • Cords are in good conditions and do not show wear and tear 
  • Using correct wires 
  • Proper sizing of circuit breakers 
  • No overloading of circuit breaker boxes 
  • Correct wiring of ground fault circuit interrupters 
  • Proper grounding and wiring to the electrical panel
  • House is compliant with branch-circuit voltage limitations 
  • Right grouping of all conductors of a circuit 
  • Proper installation of switches in wet or damp locations within weatherproof enclosures
  • All appliances with proper grounding
  • Wiring is suitable for current capacity 
  • Outlets spacing
  • All light fixtures have diffusers installed 

 

The list goes on! At Wire Craft, our experienced electricians can take the load off your shoulders and make sure your electrical systems are up to local Washington codes. More importantly, your home will be much safer with compliant, up-to-date electrical systems.

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upgrading electrical panel

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September 16, 2019 at 8:00 am

Upgrading Electrical Panel 

In a previous post, we took you inside and toured the anatomy of your home’s main electrical panel. This nifty devices controls the power distribution and electricity in your home. 

Upgrading electrical panel is not something we would ever recommend doing yourself. It’s risky and technical so hiring an electrician is the best way to go. 

Do You Still Have a Fuse Box?

Homes older than the 1960’s operated on fuse boxes instead of circuit breakers. Fuses burn out and have to be replaced, but circuit breakers just need to be switched back on. For safety and convenience, we would recommend upgrading your fuse box to a circuit breaker. 

How Old is your Home?

Homes that are 20 or 30 years old, typically have lower amperage capacity in their electrical panels. Most homes of this vintage support 60 or 100 amps versus today’s electrical panels which support an average of 200 amps which is more suitable for current lifestyles. 

Does your Panel Feel Warm?

A panel that feels warm to the touch may be overloaded and could use an upgrade. Ask your electrician for an expert opinion. 

Does your Panel Trip Often?

If your panel trips often or you hear a crackling noise, this typically means that you have more appliances or devices plugged into a circuit than it can support. This usually means it’s time for an upgrade. If your appliances are not running at capacity this could also be a sign that panels are outdated or overloaded. 

Are You Looking to Make Upgrades?

If you’re planning to upgrade your appliances, you may want to check if your current electrical panel can support them. If you find yourself using power strips a lot, you may want to add new outlets to your home. In this case, you will also want to consult your electrician if your panel is due for an upgrade. 

Upgrading Electrical Panel Cost

Electrical projects are not usually suitable even for the savviest of DIY-ers. You should hire an electrician to do this kind of work. 

The cost of upgrading electrical panel, like any contracting project, will vary. This typically depends on the current state of the panel, the age of the home and how many panels require upgrading. According to HomeGuide, the average cost typically ranges between $850 to $3,000. Permits for this kind of project is a requirement. At Wire Craft, we can take care of this for you, but it will be a component of the overall cost of the upgrade.

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