How to Identify Electrical Problems
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Why did my lights and outlets stop working? Identifying Electrical Wiring Problems when lights and outlets are not working. |
Electrical Problems
Electrical Question: Why did my lights and outlets stop working?
For about 3 months the lights in my bathroom did not work then they did work for about a month.
- During this time the outlets worked fine and were not affected.
- Now the lights and outlets are not working in the attached bedroom and the lights are out again in the bathroom, but the bathroom outlets are still working.
- I checked circuit breaker and it was fine.
- I Checked power in the wires at the light switches and there was no indication that the wires had power.
I’m Stuck!
This electrical question came from: Debi, a Homeowner from Richland, Washington.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Debi.
Application: Troubleshooting an Outlet Circuit.
Skill Level: Advanced – Best performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools, Voltage Tester or Volt Ohm Meter.
Estimated Time: Depends on the type and age of the electrical wiring and the access to the circuits and wiring to be evaluated.
Precaution: This is a project that should be performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor and typically requires specific tests of the electrical circuits.
Notice: Repairs to Home Electrical Wiring should be done according to local and national electrical codes and installing new or replacement electrical parts or equipment may require a permit and inspections.
Electrical Wiring Problems
Electrical Problems that Require Immediate Attention
- Debi, this electrical problem is a potentially dangerous condition which requires immediate attention of a Certified Electrician. Please contact a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
- The problem may be with one of the electrical circuits or could be a problem at the panel. I do not advise homeowners to perform any work in the electrical panel, especially when there is a circuit failure which is best identified and repaired by an experienced electrician.
More about Troubleshooting and Electrical Wiring
Troubleshooting Electrical Wiring Problems
Electrical Troubleshooting
- This Process of Electrical Troubleshooting will help Identify Most Electrical Wiring Problems.
- The Electrician Reveals the Secrets of Successful Electrical Troubleshooting Methods used to solve the majority of the home electrical problems and wiring failures encountered.
Wiring Electrical Outlet for the Home
Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home. See how wiring electrical outlets for the home are done.
Electrical circuit
Electric Circuit Listing
The size of the home electrical service panel is designed by calculating the square footage of the home and factoring in the code requirements for the electrical circuits that are required.
Bedroom electrical
Bedroom Electrical Wiring Requirements
This wiring diagram and pictures explain the basic bedroom electrical code wiring requirements required for most new or remodel projects.
Bathroom electrical wiring
Bathroom Electrical Wiring Requirements
This wiring diagram and pictures explain the basic bathroom electrical code wiring requirements required for most new or remodel projects. Give your bathroom a face lift when you enhance the electrical devices that will bring out the best in you. Make your eyes sparkle with get a breath of fresh air when you install one of these smart upgrades.
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Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires!The Non-Contact Electrical TesterThis is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.
The Quickest Way to Check for Faulty Electrical Wiring!The Plug-In Outlet TesterThis is the first tool I grab to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring. This popular tester is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring. It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect Very handy and easy to use.
Strip Off Wire Insulation without Nicking and Damaging the Electric Wire!The Wire Stripper and Wire CutterMy absolute favorite wire stripping tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and this is the tool I use to safely strip electrical wires. This handy tool has multiple uses: The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation. The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets.. The wire stripper will work on both solid and stranded wire. This tool is Very Handy and Easy to Use. |
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