As mentioned in Part 1, GFCI requirements have been updated in the NEC 2017 edition. Changes to NEC code regarding GFCIs have been included with every new release since 1971. Part 2 will discuss GFCI protection for areas Other Than Dwelling Units and Miscellaneous. Remember to call an experienced and licensed electrician for all home electrical projects for your safety and the best results.
A hazardous ground fault occurs when an unintended electrical path between an electrical current source and a grounded surface forms. If a person touches a part that is energized, electrical shock can result. GFCIs or ground fault circuit interrupters, significantly decrease the chances of shock by instantly shutting down an electrical circuit when it represents a shock hazard. The information below summarizes the updated GFCI requirements of the NEC (National Electrical Code) 2017 edition. For safety and the best results, rely on an experienced and licensed electrician.
Standardized electrical codes from the NEC (National Electrical Code) are for the safety of homeowners and their families. We’ll discuss the typical codes applicable for new homes and remodels and those that would increase safety in older homes. Discuss how to comply with local codes as well with an experienced and licensed electrician.
More than one circuit is required because people will often have several items running simultaneously. A combination heater, light, and fan should be equipped with an individual 20-amp circuit. An appliance like a hair dryer will also require its own 20-amp circuit. A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) for each circuit will be necessary for safety because of the presence of water.
Every closet will require a covered light fixture controlled by a wall switch. Dated fixtures with exposed bulbs are hazardous.
At least one wall switch should operate a ceiling light, independent from the garage door opener light. A separate circuit should be installed, along with a minimum of one GFCI wall outlet. Exterior outlets require GFCI protection.
At each end of a hallway or stairway, a 3-way switch is required. Hallways longer than 10 feet should have a general purpose wall outlet. Full lighting is required for stairways for safety. Landings and turns may require additional lighting.
Every major appliance, including the dishwasher, refrigerator, microwave, and garbage disposal will require a dedicated 240-volt circuit. Above the countertop, there should be a minimum of two circuits with outlets.
The washer and dryer will require their own 20-amp circuit. A separate 240-volt circuit will be needed for an electric dryer.
Every room should have a wall switch next to its door to let people turn on the light when entering. Ceiling fixtures should be operated by a wall switch, rather than a pull chain that may detach or break. Wall receptacles will require installation within 12 feet of each other. A dedicated 20-amp circuit may be required to provide power to a window air conditioner, microwave, or entertainment center.
Providing professional electricians since 1988 in Maryland, Cook Electric is the company you can rely on for all your electrical service needs. For knowledgeable, fair, honest, reliable, and conscientious service, call Cook Electric today at (410) 266-9040. We will be very glad to help you.
Spring and summer are great times to schedule remodeling projects because the weather is nicer and they can be scheduled while you and your family are away on vacation. The following article will discuss three common remodeling projects for these two seasons. Plan your project with an experienced and licensed electrical services company for the best results.
Many of us do not realize how much time we actually spend in a bathroom, and remodeling it will enhance our lives. An hour may be spent getting ready for work every weekday. You can create a haven where you can relax with the help of an electrician. Imagine installing a sound and light system that will set the right mood before facing a commute or a formal dinner party. Luxury bathrooms can also get upscale items like automated window treatments and heated floors.
The addition/expansion of a deck can drastically improve a patio area, transforming it into a place for quietly enjoying nature or throwing a party for a celebration. This project gives a homeowner the opportunity to add or improve items, such as providing more shade with an automated awning, upgrading a lighting configuration, powering an entertainment center, or installing an outdoor kitchen/barbecue. Get these wonderful features and many others with the help of a licensed electrician.
A kitchen remodel can reinvigorate the whole house. Modern kitchens have become the place where busy families congregate. It may be the only place every day where everyone is together. Kitchens are now areas where families eat and enjoy entertainment. An electrician can help in the remodel by ensuring it is safer by complying with code, more energy efficient, and capable of meeting modern power demands. A kitchen in an older home that is being remodeled will get upgrades of its electrical system and lighting.
Providing professional electricians since 1988 in Maryland, Cook Electric is the company you can rely on for all your electrical service needs, including:
For knowledgeable, fair, honest, reliable, and conscientious service, call Cook Electric today at (410) 266-9040. We will be very glad to help you.
As discussed in Part 1, electrical fires occur in almost 48,000 homes every year, causing more than 1,500 deaths. Older homes with dated and deteriorated wiring are make their residents more vulnerable to electrical fires and shocks. Devices like an AFCI provide more protection. Part 2 will discuss GFCIs and TRRs.
NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) statistics found there are almost 48,000 home electrical fires annually. As a result, more than 450 deaths, 1,500 people injured, and property damages amounting $1.5 billion occur every year.
Numerous electrical fires occur in homes constructed prior to 1970, which number more than 50% of the country’s housing. These older homes were built before the invention of many appliances and electronic devices that are now common. Nowadays, a typical home contains more TV sets than residents. This ever-growing need for electricity increases the risk of overloading the electrical system of an older home and the chances of electrical shock and fires.
Arc faults are a dangerous electrical problem in American homes. In the U.S., more than 50% of the nearly 51,000 electrical fires are attributable to arc faults. Arc faults are caused when appliances, electrical devices, and electrical wiring undergo damage, overheating, or stress. Typically, arc faults are caused by aging electrical wires that are frayed or cracked, overloaded circuits or outlets, or wires punctured by a nail or screw.
As discussed in Part 1, replacing your fuse box with circuit breakers will give your home’s electrical system greater reliability, power, and safety. Part 2 will discuss important considerations for this project. Hire an experienced licensed electrician to get the best results.
Every electrical upgrade will present some challenges. Occasionally, fuse boxes are “grandfathered”, meaning that some components of the electrical system not up to current code do not have to be replaced if they are left intact. However, replacing a portion of a grandfathered electrical system may require redoing the entire system to comply with current codes. As a result, project costs may skyrocket.
If you live in an older home, you may find an obsolete fuse box, along with outdated insulation and wires. Replacing a fuse box with circuit breakers will give your electrical system greater reliability, power, and safety. The following will discuss some important points to consider. Consult with an experienced licensed electrician before proceeding.
The service or circuit panel is an important component of every home’s electrical system, because it allows the system to function properly. According to some, a 100-amp service panel should be the minimum. However, this may not be enough for modern homes that are equipped with a heavy-duty HVAC unit, large appliances, entertainment systems, computers, an electrical car charger, and an ever-growing number of devices.
Keeping the future in mind, a 200-Amp service panel should be seriously considered. The following discusses the benefits of installing this upgrade for your home. Remember to talk to an experienced licensed electrician to get the best results for your project.