My smoke detector keeps chirping?
A consistent chirp is probably an indication of a low battery condition and the smoke detector would require a new battery.
An intermittent chirp is probably an indication of a defective smoke detector.
Smoke detectors 10 years or older should be replaced, if there is any question they are not working correctly.
Why do I blow fuses or why does my circuit breaker trip?
Except in the case of ground fault interrupters, which are susceptible to moisture and/or weather conditions, fuses and/or circuit breakers, should not trip unless they are overloaded or you have developed a problem in your wiring system. Overloaded means too many lights and/or other items are plugged into the same circuit . This causes too many amps to travel through the circuit breaker and/or fuse.
What is a GFCI device or breaker?
GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. In layman’s terms this device protects you from electrical shock. When it senses the slightest increase in resistance resulting from ground fault, (i.e., the use of electrical devices in or near water), it turns off to protect you.
What is Arc Fault?
The “AFCI” is an arc fault circuit interrupter. AFCIs are newly-developed electrical breakers designed to protect against fires caused by arcing faults in the home electrical wiring system.
Frequently Asked Questions
First things first, ALWAYS THINK SAFETY!
When ever you do electrical work of ANY kind, TURN OFF THE POWER!!
This may be at a breaker and fuse box. Just turning off the light switch is NOT GOOD ENOUGH!
If you are not comfortable with the breaker box or not sure where to turn the power off, then do NOT do any electrical work!
Second, this is a BASIC guide to basic electrical fixes or problem solving. It is NOT intended to replace a Licensed professional. Most electrical work requires a Permit and for good reason! Electricity can kill. It is a major cause of fires and can shock or kill through electrocution. Improperly installed electrical wiring is not only illegal, it can be fatal.
If you have concerns working with any of your electrical system, just call us, never work on anything you are unfamiliar with.
307-683-6659
How do I reset a breaker?
Sometimes a tripped breaker does not appear tripped. The breaker handle is in a Half on- Half off position. Push the breaker to the full off position, and then back to the full on position. If this does not restore the power, call us, 307-683-6659
My kitchen, outside, bathroom, basement, or garage outlets are not working?
This could be a tripped GFI outlet. Push the test button (sometimes a black button, but always marked “test”). Then push the reset button (sometimes a red button, but always marked “reset”). If this does not restore the power, call us 307-683-6659.
GFI outlets do go bad from time to time.