Stamford Electrical FAQ

Here are a few basic answers to popular electrical questions asked by our clients in the Stamford area. However we recommend that you use the services of a qualified and certified electrician to avoid damage and injury.

I need to replace a breaker, but I don't know what kind it is. Are they all the same?

No. The easiest way is to bring in the old breaker with you to ensure you buy the right kind of breaker. If you do not have the old breaker, the brand name of your service box might allow us to find the right kind of breaker.

One of my breakers tripped. Is it dangerous?

Tripping breakers are usually the result of an overloaded circuit, which may not be a danger in itself. We recommend, if that is the case, that you try running fewer appliances on the circuit, which could fix the problem. However if an overloaded circuit is not the source of your breaker tripping, you might be dealing with something more serious like a short, a defective wire, plug, or socket, in which case we recommend you call a qualified electrician without delay.

Can I install a larger fuse to prevent it from tripping?

In most cases the answer is no. Fuses are designed to blow when the charge reaches a certain level in order to protect your appliances and to ensure your safety.

The plug from our dryer doesn't fit the receptacle in our new house. Can I fix this?

If the receptacle doesn't fit the plug, it will need to be changed. Again, we strongly recommend you trust a certified electrician to do this.

What should a basic electrical tool kit contain?

- First and foremost, a general knowledge of electricity -

• Needle-nose pliers
• Insulated screwdriver
• Combination tool
• Utility knife
• Continuity tester
• Circuit tester
• Electrical tape
• Wire connectors

What is a transformer?

A transformer is a device that converts voltage. In most homes, transformers reduce the voltage for use on low-voltage equipment, such as thermostats and doorbells.

Electrical Advice

At D. Sal Electrical Contractors, we believe that routine maintenance and common sense can help you through most basic electrical issues. For instance, if a light is out, start by checking the bulb. But before you undertake any electrical project, you definitely want to consult an electrician. D. Sal Electrical Contractors is here to assist you with any electrical issues you might have. We offer these simple electrical tips to help you better maintain and identify electrical issues as part of our ongoing effort to provide the best possible electrical services to our customers.

• Circuit breakers- Heavy duty safety switches that serve the same purpose as fuses.
• Grounding- This requires all metal parts of any wiring system or anything connected to it will be maintained at 0 volts during a short circuit to protect shock or death.

All wires are color coded. Hot wires are usually black or red but could be another color (excluding green, gray or white) and should be marked for safety's sake. Electricity can be dangerous when working with it so safety must be considered first and foremost. Never work on a live circuit, always make sure the power is shut off when working on receptacles, switches, or anything that runs on electricity. In fact, when changing a fuse you must first shut off the main disconnect. If your troubleshooting doesn't provide an answer or the job is more than something simple that you can safely or capably handle, contact us.

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