Q: Here in New England, we usually attach 1x3 strapping to the ceiling joists before installing drywall. At most jobs, I see the electricians stapling the Romex cable to the bottom of the joists, parallel to the 1x3 strapping, so the wiring is about 1/2 i
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Arc-fault circuit interrupters
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Q: There are no code requirements for smoke detectors in my area. What is the best type of smoke detector to buy, and where should they be located?
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Q: In a residential remodel, we replaced the electrical service panel. Within five days, two of the 15-amp breakers tripped and could not be reset. The breakers were determined to be "defective" and had to be replaced. What could be causing this problem?
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International Codes update, a look at “nominal” sizes in building materials, trend toward minimum home sizes comes to Utah, new tax rules for small businesses, more
Q: I have always thought that the best way to wire a receptacle is to use a pigtail lead from the supply wires to the receptacle. My electrician prefers to run the supply wires, and also the wires to the downstream receptacles, to the screw terminals at t
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Q: At several jobs, I have noticed that the electrician wires the bathroom light downstream from the bathroom GFCI receptacle. When the GFCI trips, the light goes out. Does this meet the NEC?
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Q: What is an arc-fault circuit interrupter? Are they expensive? Are they subject to nuisance tripping?
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Q: If an electrician comes and does work, does he have to bring the whole house up to code? Are there certain things he has to do and others that are optional? What is permitted versus what is best practice?
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Q: How about upgrading old two-prong ungrounded outlets from the ’70s and back?
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A master electrician addresses questions and concerns about old and retrofit wiring on the typical remodeling site.
A veteran electrician gives you a leg up on your inspector with this summary of the latest NEC changes.
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Basic business guide, contract-writing help, construction drawing primer, engineering basics, electrical references
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Most chimney problems stem from a few root causes, such as improperly mixed mortar and poorly constructed crowns. Unfortunately, once done, the resulting damage can be expensive to repair. A chimney expert shows how to recognize and prevent
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Residential sprinklers systems are unobtrusive and effective, but are not usually installed because of cost. One way to make them more affordable is to use plastic piping, as described in this article by a California fire marshal.
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Replacing ungrounded receptacles, clip-head nailers discussed, bidding teamwork, ladder safety
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Q: My questions have to do with existing ungrounded circuits in older homes. My understanding is that you should always replace worn-out two-slot receptacles with new two-slot receptacles (although they’re not always easy to find). However, I’ve also been told that in some locales you can install a...
Q: What’s the best way to locate an electrical box that was covered over when the drywall was installed?
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Estimating electrical work
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Q: Are there any special requirements for electrical grounding when using metal studs?