Electrical Engineering | Cook Electric

Regular Post

Written by Larry Cook

2 September 2018

3 Old Electrical Panels that Should be Replaced

Failures of electrical panels can result in dangerous electrical arcing between the circuit breaker and buss bar or from a circuit breaker’s failure to trip because of an overload. Either can lead to a build up of high temperatures and eventually a fire.

Many houses that were constructed from 1950 to 1980 typically had one of the following three brands of electrical panels: ITE Pushmatic, Zinsco and the most notorious, Federal Pacific Electric. Call an experienced and licensed electrician if your home has one of these still installed and replace it with a modern model to protect your home and family.

Regular Post

Written by Larry Cook

23 August 2018

Surge Protection for Commercial Facilities – Part 3

As discussed in Part 2, almost every enterprise must rely on modern electrical equipment in some way, and they can be degraded or damaged by power surges. Business continuity can be endangered without proper protection. Part 3 will cover Surge Suppression Devices, Selection, and Uninterruptible Power Supply.

Regular Post

Written by Larry Cook

16 August 2018

Surge Protection for Commercial Facilities – Part 1

Resulting from sudden electrical changes in a circuit, power or voltage surges are short bursts of energy that occur in electrical or electronic equipment. Typically lasting just a millisecond, a power surge can increase the voltage within electronic circuits from hundreds to thousands of volts. They are one of the most common hazards to sensitive electronic equipment. A study found that power surges are the cause of more than $25 billion annually in costs from down time, repair, and replacement.

electrical standards,electricians, Maryland

Regular Post

Written by Larry Cook

30 July 2018

NEC 2017 Code Updates for GFCIs – Part 2

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.

Regular Post

Written by Larry Cook

23 July 2018

NEC 2017 Code Updates for GFCIs – Part 1

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.

Blog

20a 125v Receptacle, Code Update, Electrical Code, Electrical Engineering, Electrical Safety, Electrical Service Repair, Electrical Shock, Electrical Wiring, Electrician, Electromagnetism, Gfci Protection, Ground And Neutral, Home Electrical Safety, National Electrical Code, Nec Codes, Residual-current Device

Home, Residential Electrical services, Annapolis MD

Regular Post

Written by Larry Cook

29 May 2018

Typical Home Electrical Codes for Safety

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.

Bathroom

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.

Closet

Every closet will require a covered light fixture controlled by a wall switch. Dated fixtures with exposed bulbs are hazardous.

Garage (Attached)

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.

Hallway and Stairway

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.

Kitchen

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.

Laundry Room

The washer and dryer will require their own 20-amp circuit. A separate 240-volt circuit will be needed for an electric dryer.

Living, Dining, and Bed Room

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.

Electrical Peace of Mind

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.

Regular Post

Written by Larry Cook

15 May 2018

Electrifying Spring & Summer Remodeling Projects

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.

Bathroom

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.

Deck

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.

Kitchen

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.

Electrical Peace of Mind

Providing professional electricians since 1988 in Maryland, Cook Electric is the company you can rely on for all your electrical service needs, including:

Commercial & Residential Electrical Installations
Marina & Residential Pier Wiring
Electrical Service & Repair
Specialty Electrical Services

For knowledgeable, fair, honest, reliable, and conscientious service, call Cook Electric today at (410) 266-9040. We will be very glad to help you.

Regular Post

Written by Larry Cook

29 April 2018

Make Your Older Home Safer with ESFI Safety Tips – Part 2

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.

Electrician, Electrical services, wiring

Regular Post

Written by Larry Cook

25 April 2018

Make Your Older Home Safer with ESFI Safety Tips – Part 1

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.

Regular Post

Written by Larry Cook

7 April 2018

Electrical Fire Dangers Caused by Arc Faults

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.

1 2 3 … 6