If you're a homeowner, it's important to understand the basics of your home's electrical wiring. Understanding how your electrical system works can help you troubleshoot issues and ensure that your home is safe. Here's a beginner's guide to understanding home electrical wiring, brought to you by Ace Electric.
Electrical Service Entrance The electrical service entrance is where the electricity from the utility company enters your home. The entrance includes a meter to measure the amount of electricity used and a service panel to distribute the electricity throughout your home.
Circuit Breakers Circuit breakers are an essential safety feature in your home's electrical system. They are designed to protect your home from electrical overloads that could cause fires. When the current flowing through a circuit exceeds a safe level, the circuit breaker will trip, shutting off power to that circuit.
Electrical Circuits Your home's electrical system is made up of circuits, each of which is designed to handle a certain amount of electrical load. Each circuit is protected by a circuit breaker, which shuts off power to the circuit if it becomes overloaded.
Electrical Outlets Electrical outlets are the points where you can plug in your electrical devices. There are two main types of outlets in homes: standard outlets and GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets. GFCI outlets are an essential safety feature in areas with water, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas.
Electrical Wiring Electrical wiring is used to carry electricity from the service panel to the outlets, switches, and appliances in your home. There are two main types of wiring: solid wire and stranded wire. Solid wire is used for most electrical applications, while stranded wire is used in areas where flexibility is required.
Understanding the basics of home electrical wiring can help you troubleshoot issues and ensure that your home is safe. However, it's important to remember that electrical work can be dangerous, and should only be performed by licensed electricians. At Ace Electric, our team of licensed electricians has the expertise to handle all of your electrical needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.