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220 VAC Outlet

A high-voltage outlet commonly used for large appliances such as electric dryers or for EV chargers. These outlets handle higher electrical loads than standard 110 VAC outlet.

A

AC (Alternating Current)

A type of electrical current in which the direction of flow periodically reverses. It’s commonly used in homes and businesses. Read more.

AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter)

A circuit breaker designed to prevent fires by detecting arcs, which can cause electrical fires, and interrupting the circuit. If it detects an electrical issue, it will cut its connection to the power supply, preventing a potential fire.

Amperage (A)

The measure of electrical current flow in a circuit. It’s important to know how much current your home’s wiring can handle. Read more

Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)

A device that automatically switches the power supply from the grid to a standby generator during a power outage and back to the grid once power is restored.

B

Ballast

A device used to regulate the current in fluorescent or HID light fixtures. It ensures that the light fixture gets the right amount of current, extending its life and maintaining brightness.

C

CFL Bulbs

Compact Fluorescent Lamps are more energy-efficient than incandescent bulbs. They use a gas-filled tube to create light but have a longer warm-up time and contain small amounts of mercury. Read more

Circuit

A complete path that electricity travels along. Circuits ensure power reaches your appliances and outlets. Breaks in the circuit can cause power loss, and overloaded circuits may trip breakers.

Circuit Breaker

A safety device that automatically stops the flow of electricity in a circuit if it becomes overloaded or shorted. Circuit breakers prevent electrical overloads, which can cause fires or damage appliances. They can easily be reset if tripped.

Color Temperature

Measured in Kelvins (K), this refers to the warmth or coolness of a light's appearance. Warm light has a lower Kelvin value, while cool light has a higher value.

Conduit

A protective tubing that houses electrical wiring to protect it from damage.

D

DC (Direct Current)

An electrical current that flows in one direction only, often used in batteries and electronics.

Dimmer Switch

A switch that allows you to adjust the brightness of a light. Dimmer switches can save energy and extend the life of your bulbs by allowing you to use only as much light as needed.

E

Electrical panel upgrade

A process of replacing an old electrical panel with a newer, more efficient one, often necessary when adding more appliances or circuits.

Energy efficiency

Energy-efficient practices can save you money on your utility bills and help reduce your carbon footprint. Look for the Energy Star label on appliances and electronics. This indicates that the product meets or exceeds federal energy efficiency standards.

EV Charger

a device that supplies electrical energy to charge electric vehicles (EVs). They come in different levels, with Level 1 chargers using a standard household outlet and offering slower charging times, while Level 2 chargers require a 240-volt outlet and provide faster charging. Level 3 (DC fast chargers) offer the fastest charging but are usually installed at public stations. When installing an EV charger at home, factors like electrical capacity, charger placement, and professional installation are important considerations. Read More

F

Fuse

A device that provides overcurrent protection in electrical circuits by breaking the circuit when excessive current flows.

G

Generator

A device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy, commonly used as a backup power source.

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter)

Similar to an AFCI, this type of outlet shuts off electric power if it detects a change in the amount of electricity flowing into the circuit. It is especially effective at stopping electric shocks.

Grounding

A safety practice where electrical equipment is connected to the earth to prevent electric shock. Grounding prevents electrical shocks and protects your home’s electrical system and devices from power surges, which can happen during storms or power outages.

H

Halogen Bulbs

A type of incandescent bulb that uses halogen gas to increase energy efficiency and lifespan. They provide bright, white light and are often used in outdoor lighting. Read more

I

Incandescent Bulbs

Traditional light bulbs that use a filament heated until it glows to produce light. These are known for their warm light but are less energy-efficient than newer options. Read more

Inverter

Inverters are essential for systems like solar power or batteries, as they convert the DC power they produce into the AC power used in homes. This allows for energy independence and can reduce reliance on the grid.

Inverter Generator

A type of generator that provides a stable, clean power output, ideal for sensitive electronics. Inverter generators produce cleaner, quieter, and more efficient power than traditional generators. Read More

J

Junction Box

A protective housing where electrical connections are made. Junction boxes keep wiring connections secure and protect against moisture or tampering.

L

Live (Hot) Wire

A wire that carries current from the electrical source to the outlet or appliance.

Load

The amount of power consumed by an electrical device or circuit.

Lumen

A unit of measurement for the brightness of a light bulb. The higher the lumen rating, the brighter the light.

N

Neutral Wire

Part of the electrical circuit that carries current back to the service panel. Essential for completing the circuit. Tampering with a neutral wire can be dangerous, as it may still carry current, especially in older homes.

O

Ohm (Ω)

A unit that measures electrical resistance. Understanding resistance helps identify how easily electricity can flow through a wire. Higher resistance means more heat, which can be dangerous if wires are not rated for the load.

Overcurrent

A situation where more current flows through a circuit than it is designed to handle. Overcurrent protection (via breakers or fuses) prevents overheating, which can lead to electrical fires.

P

Portable Generator

A mobile generator typically powered by gasoline or diesel. It must be manually started and connected to power specific appliances or circuits during an outage. Read More

Power (P)

The rate at which electrical energy is used or generated, measured in watts (W). Power is a critical factor in determining the capacity of electrical appliances and systems. Higher power devices consume more electricity and may require specialized circuits.

R

Recessed Lighting

A type of lighting fixture that is installed into a hollow opening in the ceiling, providing a clean, streamlined look. The light source is contained within the ceiling, making it flush with the surface. Recessed lights are commonly used for ambient, task, or accent lighting and can be fitted with various trims to direct or diffuse the light. This type of lighting is often favored for its modern aesthetic and ability to create a spacious feel in a room, while maintaining a minimalistic appearance. Read more

S

Service Panel (Breaker Box)

The main electrical distribution point for your home, where circuit breakers or fuses are located. It controls the flow of electricity to different circuits. Any home renovation or repair involving power typically starts at the service panel.

Short Circuit

A malfunction where electricity takes an unintended path, bypassing the normal flow of the circuit. Short circuits can cause wires to overheat, leading to fires or damage to appliances. Circuit breakers help by shutting off power when a short circuit is detected, but it's essential to address the cause to prevent further issues.

Standby Generator

A permanently installed generator that automatically supplies power to your home during an outage. It connects directly to your home’s electrical system and often runs on natural gas or propane. Read More

Subpanel

A smaller service panel that distributes power to specific areas or circuits in your home. Subpanels help distribute power in larger homes or detached structures, offering better control over specific circuits.

Surge Protector

A device that shields electrical equipment from sudden spikes in voltage.

T

Three-Way Switch

A switch that controls a single light or device from two different locations.

Transformer

A device that changes the voltage of an alternating current (AC) supply. Transformers help distribute electricity efficiently over long distances, reducing high voltages from power lines to safe levels for household use.

V

Voltage (V)

The potential difference in electrical charge between two points in a circuit, which drives the current flow. Voltage determines how much energy is available to power your devices. For most homes in the U.S., outlets provide 120 volts, while some larger appliances like ovens and dryers require 240 volts. Using the correct voltage for your appliances prevents damage and ensures they operate efficiently. Read more

W

Wattage (W)

The measure of electrical power. Understanding watts helps homeowners compare how much electricity devices use and aids in making energy-efficient choices. For example, LED light bulbs use significantly fewer watts than traditional incandescent bulbs to produce the same brightness. Read more

Whole-house surge protector

A device that protects your entire home's electrical system from power surges. Surge protectors can safeguard your electronics and appliances from damage caused by sudden voltage spikes.

Wiring Diagram

A visual representation of the wiring setup in a circuit, useful for troubleshooting or installation.
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