Electrical
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) A new electrical safety device is now being required in the State of California, and it is called an Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI).Since 2003,it has been required to be installed on all bedroom circuits for new construction.This device has the ability to “sense” and detect overheating and shorting of electrical wiring that could start a fire, but would not trip a standard breaker.What’s interesting is that it has taken almost ten years of research and development for this device to be required in residential construction. Mar 10, 2008, 19:45
Electrical
Federal Pacific Electrical Panels I live in a 50 year
old house, and I had it inspected to see if there were problems I wasn’t aware
of, or items that needed to be fixed.The property inspector stated my electrical panel was made by the
Federal Pacific Company, and presented a safety hazard.Apparently, Federal Pacific had lost its UL
rating due to faulty breakers not tripped during excessive loads.He indicated that it was a fire hazard, and
should be replaced.I have lived in the
house for 35 years, and have never had a problem with the panel.If I replace the panel, it will cost about
$1500.00.Is this really necessary? PJ, Hayward
We just inherited a 45-year
old house, and shortly after we moved in we noticed that the lights would
occasionally flicker on and off.Some
switches were hot to the touch.I
contacted an electrician to come over and inspect the wiring.He said that the problem was with the
aluminum wiring used in my house.He
showed me burn marks at some switches and outlets.He said that I should have the whole house
rewired and that can cost thousands of dollars.My parents were the original owners, and I don’t remember them ever
having a problem.How much of a concern
is it to have aluminum wiring in the house?
I have an older home with
the old style, two pronged outlets that are not grounded.I’m concerned about having my electrical
system properly grounded, but I don’t really understand how a grounding system
works.All I know is that it is supposed
to prevent you from getting shocked. Can you tell me a little bit about
it?
