Whether you need to add an outlet or replace a circuit breaker, you want to hire a licensed electrician. This can help minimize safety risks and prevent costly repairs down the road.
The installation of electrical outlets, lighting and appliances requires great skill and attention to detail. Using a professional can ensure that all the wires are installed correctly and meet building codes.
Installing a New Outlet
An electrical outlet is a place in a home where electric cords can be connected to appliances. They can be two pronged or three-pronged and have long connection slots that help prevent ungrounded wiring.
An electrician in Bakersfield CA installs outlets throughout a structure, working closely with the general contractor to ensure the installation meets local electrical codes. He or she also performs other electrical maintenance work, such as repairing switches and installing circuit breakers.
A typical new outlet installation involves running NM electrical cables from the main service panel through wall cavities to the new outlet location. It also requires running a new circuit or extending an existing one from the main service panel to the outlet location, if needed.
The wiring connections must be made carefully to prevent wires from coming loose, a fire and shock hazard. They can be made using side screw terminals or self-clamping rear terminals.
Replacing a Circuit Breaker
Circuit breakers are devices that break the electrical current flow when they sense a circuit is drawing more amperage than it is designed to carry. This can cause overheating and damage to appliances.
Typically, circuit breakers last for several decades in ideal conditions and can be replaced with new ones when there are signs of physical wear. However, electrical overloads and building conditions can shorten a breaker’s lifespan.
The most common indication that a circuit breaker needs replacement is that it regularly trips, even when there isn’t much load on the system. This is a good time to have an electrician in Bakersfield CA inspect the circuit breaker to determine if it needs replacing.
To replace a circuit breaker, start by locating the terminal screw in the panel. Loosen it with a screwdriver and then stretch the pigtail wire so it fits into the terminal plate. Then remove the old breaker and install the new one in its place.
Installing a Ceiling Fan
When it comes to home improvement projects, hiring an electrician in Bakersfield CA can often save you a significant amount of money and time. A professional can ensure that your new fixtures are properly wired and rated for use in your home, and they can help you avoid any unexpected issues that may arise during the installation process.
Ceiling fans are a great option for cooling down your home during hot weather and minimizing your air conditioning costs. They are also energy efficient and can improve your home’s comfort year round.
A good way to determine the quality of your fan is to choose one that has an ENERGY STAR label. These products have been tested to prove that they are incredibly energy efficient and won’t sacrifice performance or comfort.
When choosing a fan, consider the number of blades, their pitch, and the speed at which they rotate. These are all factors that determine how effective the fan is at moving air.
Replacing Light Fixtures
A well lit living room is a welcome sight to behold. A dazzling array of recessed lights can illuminate your home in style without the need for an oversized chandelier. A well crafted lighting scheme also reduces your utility bill, no small feat in a household of four. A dedicated electrician in Bakersfield CA can make it a reality with a minimal amount of fuss and muss. Whether you’re in the market for a new kitchen light fixture or replacing your bedroom sconce, an enlightened pro can handle the job with aplomb. You’ll also get the satisfaction of knowing your lights are up to code. Besides the obvious lights and outlets, you can also call on an electrical contractor to upgrade your outdated appliances, replace your ceiling vents or give your aging power strip the heebie-jeebies. Using HomeAdvisor’s database of top-rated service professionals in your neighborhood, you can find the right one for your needs.
