As licensed electricians, we often receive service calls for common household issues that many homeowners can easily fix themselves. Here are the top three service calls we receive and how you can resolve them without needing to call us first.
1. How to Turn a Breaker Off and Back On
DISCLAIMER: The information provided here is for general guidance on how to reset a circuit breaker safely. However, resetting a breaker should only be attempted after determining there is no underlying electrical issue. Frequent tripping or inability to reset a breaker may indicate a more serious problem, which requires professional attention. We strongly recommend contacting a licensed electrician to assess and repair any electrical concerns. By following this advice, you agree to assume all responsibility for any potential risks or damages. We are not liable for any injury, loss, or damage resulting from the use of this information.
In the #1 place of our Top 3 Service Calls, we see a surprising number of calls about circuit breakers, where many homeowners discover that a firm hand is often all that's needed.
Steps to Reset a Breaker:
1. Locate the Panel: Find your electrical panel, which is typically in a basement, garage, or utility room.
2. Identify the Tripped Breaker: Look for a breaker that is in the tripped position. (Usually it's leaning toward the middle. It is often easy to wiggle, and not stiff nor stuck.)
3. Turn It Off: To fully reset it, push the breaker to the "off" position. You may need to apply some force—don’t be shy!
4. Turn It Back On: Next, flip the breaker to the "on" position. You should feel (and hear!) a firm click.
Tip: If the breaker trips again immediately, there may be a deeper issue, and it's best to consult a licensed electrician. Contact Us if that's the case!
Smoke Detectors
Coming in at #2 are issues regarding smoke detectors. Smoke detectors are your first line of defense against fire, yet they often go unnoticed until they're beeping at you & waking your family up in the middle of the night. Sans fire, it's an annoying problem! Here's how to avoid this: Note: There are many different types of smoke detectors, each with its own features and maintenance requirements. This is just the briefest of overviews addressing the most common issues we find. Maintenance Steps: Check the Battery: If your smoke detector is beeping, refer to your user manual; the manuals typically list sequences of flashing and/or beeps to tell you what's wrong. The battery is the most common reason for beeping - but it isn't necessarily always the case. Note: Not all smoke detectors have a battery backup. Call a licensed electrician if this is the case.
Dusting: Wipe the detector with a soft cloth or vacuum it gently to remove dust and debris. Replacement: If your smoke detector is more than 10 years old, it’s time to replace it. Check the manufacturer's guidelines for specifics.
3. How To Reset A GFCI Outlet
And finally in our #3 spot -- GFCI outlets. Often all they need is a reset. This is super simple! Here's how:
Resetting Steps: Locate the GFCI Plug: Find the GFCI outlet, usually marked with “reset” and “test” buttons.
Press the Reset Button: Simply press the “reset” button. You should hear a click, and the outlet will reset.
Check Other Devices: If the GFCI trips again, check for any plugged-in devices that may be causing the issue. Tip: If the reset button doesn’t stay engaged or if it trips frequently, it’s a sign that there may be an underlying issue that needs professional attention. Contact us if you're having this issue.
Note: Even if an outlet looks like a regular receptacle, it might still be protected by a GFCI located elsewhere on the same circuit. If the outlet isn’t working, you may need to locate and reset the GFCI. Common locations for GFCI-protected outlets include bathrooms and outdoor areas.
By understanding how to reset breakers, maintain smoke detectors, and reset GFCI plugs, you can save time and money on service calls for common household issues. However, if problems persist, don't hesitate to reach out to a licensed electrician for assistance. We’re always here to help!
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