How to Repair a Kitchen Outlet Circuit
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How to Fix a Damaged Outlet Circuit: Whenever I power up the circuit on the panel the breaker trips automatically. |
Damaged Outlet Circuit
Electrical Question: While installing a tile back splash in the kitchen I missed turning off one circuit on the panel and shorted out one of the receptacles with the trowel which caused a Big flash.
- I have replaced the receptacle and the breaker in the panel.
- Whenever I power up the circuit on the panel the breaker trips automatically.
- What do I need to check now? Do I need to replace the line?
Thanks
This electrical wiring question came from James, in Montreal, Alabama.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question James.
Repairing a Damaged Electrical Circuit
Application: Troubleshooting and Repairing Outlet Problem.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced. This electrical wiring project is best performed by a Licensed Electrician.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools, Voltage Tester or Volt Ohm Meter or plug-in circuit analyzer.
Estimated Time: Depends on the age of the home and the condition of the electrical wiring and access to the circuit wiring to be inspected, evaluated and repaired.
Precaution: Identify the outlet circuit at the electric panel, turn it OFF and then Tag it with a Note before performing any wiring inspections or electrical repairs. If an outlet or the electrical wiring is found to be damaged then repairs and replacement parts should be obtained with the same voltage and amperage rating.
Notice: Burnt or damaged electrical wiring and circuit components should be replaced with new electrical materials of the same voltage and amperage rating.
How to Fix a Damaged Outlet Circuit
- This question leads me to believe that when the tile backer board was nailed to the wall one of the nails penetrated the circuit wiring for the counter top outlets.
- When this happens the nail becomes energized and anything that it comes into contact with, including mesh or screen that is used to hold the grout for the tile.
- In a case such as this the electrical cable is damaged and the circuit breaker will continue to trip off because the nail has provided a direct short between the hot wire and a path to ground.
- The nail that has damaged the cable should be removed, and the affected section of cable will need to be removed and replaced.
- Typically metal safety plates are nailed to the face of the wall stud to protect the electrical wiring from damage such as this.
- If the cable will be spliced then a junction box should be installed and accessible and may not be buried inside the wall.
More about Kitchen Electrical Wiring
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Home Electrical Repairs Made Simple! Easy to Understand Electrical Troubleshooting with Wiring Diagrams, Step by Step Instructions and Electrical Pictures.
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House Wiring Circuits and Circuit Breakers
- This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.
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Electrical Circuit Wiring
- This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.
How to Install Kitchen Electrical Wiring
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Kitchen Electrical Wiring
- Fully Explained Photos and Wiring Diagrams for Kitchen Electrical Wiring with Code Requirements for most new or remodel projects.
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