Electrical Questions Answered: Homeowners and Contractors

Why does my breaker keep tripping?

A breaker trips to protect the circuit, usually because of an overload (too many devices on one circuit), a short circuit, or a ground fault. If it trips when a specific appliance runs, that circuit may be overloaded or the appliance may be faulty. A breaker that trips repeatedly, trips immediately after reset, or is warm or buzzing should be checked by a licensed electrician rather than reset over and over.

What is a GFCI and where is it required?

A GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) shuts off power when the current flowing out differs from the current returning, which can happen when electricity is leaking through water or a person. According to ESFI, the National Electrical Code requires GFCIs in kitchens, bathrooms, garages and outdoors. Local jurisdictions adopt different editions of the code and may amend it, so a licensed electrician can confirm what applies to your home.

Source: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (ESFI)

How often should I test GFCI and AFCI outlets and breakers?

Test them every month, as the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) recommends. Press the TEST button, confirm the power shuts off, then press RESET. If the device does not trip or will not reset, have a licensed electrician replace it.

Source: 5 Easy Steps to a Safer Home (ESFI)

Why are my lights flickering?

A single flickering light is often a loose bulb or a dimmer that is not compatible with the bulb. Flickering across several rooms, or lights that dim when a large appliance starts, can point to a loose connection or a circuit or service problem. Loose connections can overheat, so have a licensed electrician inspect any flickering that is not explained by a bulb or dimmer.

Is aluminum wiring dangerous?

It can be. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that homes built before 1972 with aluminum branch wiring are 55 times more likely than copper-wired homes to have one or more connections reach fire hazard conditions. The risk is at the connections, which can overheat, and failing connections often give little warning. CPSC advises against doing the repair yourself; have a qualified electrician evaluate it.

Source: Repairing Aluminum Wiring, Publication 516 (CPSC)

Why is my outlet or switch plate warm?

A warm or hot face plate is a warning sign of a loose or failing connection and should be treated seriously. The CPSC lists hot face plates, flickering lights, dead circuits and the smell of burning plastic at outlets or switches as signs of a problem. Stop using the outlet, turn off that circuit if you can do so safely, and call a licensed electrician.

Source: Repairing Aluminum Wiring, Publication 516 (CPSC)

How often should smoke alarms be replaced?

Replace smoke alarms every ten years, in line with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidance as cited by alarm manufacturer Kidde. Carbon monoxide and combination alarms typically need replacement sooner, depending on the model, so check the date on the back of each unit. Test alarms regularly following the manufacturer's instructions.

Source: Replace and Upgrade Alarms (Kidde)

Do I need a panel upgrade to add an EV charger or heat pump?

Not always, but you need a load calculation to know. A licensed electrician will compare your existing service capacity and panel space against the new load. Some homes can add the circuit as is, some can use load management equipment, and some need a service or panel upgrade. Most jurisdictions require a permit for this work.

Can I do my own electrical work?

Rules vary by state and local jurisdiction, and some places allow homeowners to pull permits for work on their own home. Even where it is legal, electrical work carries real risk of shock, fire and failed inspections. For anything beyond replacing a bulb or resetting a breaker, hire a licensed electrician.

Do I need a license to work as an electrician?

In most places, yes, but licensing rules differ by state and sometimes by city. Some states license electricians and electrical contractors at the state level; in Texas, for example, that is the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, which also adopts the National Electrical Code for the state. Other states leave licensing to local jurisdictions. Check with your state licensing agency and local building department before taking work.

Source: Electricians (Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation)

How should an electrician price a service call?

Price from your own costs: loaded labor rate, overhead, vehicle costs and the margin you need. Many electrical contractors use flat-rate pricing for common tasks so the customer approves a fixed price before work begins, while others bill time and materials. Pricing varies widely by market and job type, so compare your rates to your actual job costs on a regular schedule.

What OSHA rules cover lockout/tagout for electrical work?

For general industry, OSHA's control of hazardous energy (lockout/tagout) standard is 29 CFR 1910.147, which covers electrical and other energy sources during servicing and maintenance. OSHA notes that hazardous energy control is also addressed in separate standards for construction, electrical work and other sectors. Confirm which standards apply to your specific work and train every employee before they work on equipment.

Source: Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout) (OSHA)