Save money, Save the call...

Recently, I received a call from a homeowner whose exterior outlets and garage area lost power. Specifically, the issue arose after the house was pressure washed in preparation for exterior painting. This situation highlights the importance of having a trusted electrician or handyman on hand, prompting a moment of reflection: Why didn't I check beforehand?

Surprisingly, up to 30% of power-related service calls can be resolved by pushing a button, flipping a switch, or plugging in an electrical cable. While these solutions may seem straightforward, they are often overlooked. Unfortunately, technicians are required to charge homeowners for these service calls, and they find them less enjoyable. Homeowners should be aware that these calls put professionals in an awkward position, causing them to lose money.

To assist our community and help homeowners avoid unnecessary expenses, here are some issues that can be easily resolved, saving you from a hefty bill that nobody wants.

Bathrooms, kitchens, and exterior outlets are typically safeguarded by Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs), which are usually located in a bathroom or elsewhere in the house. It's prudent to be aware of the location of all GFCIs in your home and maintain a handy list of them.

To restore power in a protected circuit, simply press the "RESET" button on the GFCI, and your electrical system will be operational. However, if the GFCI's RESET button trips off again or cannot be reset, it's crucial not to proceed further. In such cases, it's recommended to call a licensed electrician. This could indicate a more serious issue, such as an electrical short or overload. The GFCI is designed to prioritize safety and tends to default to the "OFF" position in the presence of potential hazards.

Another common issue homeowners may encounter is when lights or outlets lose power in specific areas of the house. In such cases, checking the main circuit breaker panel is advisable. Every homeowner should be familiar with the location of their home's circuit breaker (C/B) panel, and all breakers should be appropriately labeled for easy identification.

To address the issue:

1. Locate the circuit breaker related to the affected area.

2. If the circuit breaker is tripped, reset it by turning it off, waiting a few seconds, and then turning it back on.

However, if the circuit breaker trips off again, it is crucial not to attempt another reset. Instead, seek the assistance of a professional. Circuit breakers tripping on their own indicates a more significant problem, and the system is functioning to protect your property. Forcing the system by holding the breaker in the ON position could lead to electrical hazards, including the risk of an electrical fire. Always prioritize safety and consult a professional if issues persist.

Addressing a garbage disposal (GD) issue is typically straightforward. All garbage disposals are connected to a switch, and the power source is linked to a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI). If the kitchen has power, but the GD is not working, follow these steps:

1. Exercise the Associated Switch:

• Toggle the associated switch on and off.

• If the GD has no power despite exercising the switch, one of two issues may have occurred.

2. Check for GFCI Trigger:

• The GFCI may have triggered it off. Verify and reset the GFCI associated with the garbage disposal.

3. Inspect for Propeller Movement:

• Before resetting the GD, ensure the propeller blades move freely.

• Do not attempt to clear propeller movement with your hand or fingers, as it could cause permanent damage.

4. Identify Overheating Issues:

• Investigate the cause of the GD overheating and stopping.

• Resolve the identified issue before proceeding with the reset.

5. Reset the GD:

• Locate the reset button, usually red, on the bottom of the GD.

• Press the reset button, returning it to the standard position.

6. Caution on Overheating Protection:

• If the overheating protection mechanism resets again, refrain from continuing to reset or pressing the reset button.

• These actions could pose a risk of electrical fire or permanent damage to the GD.

Always exercise caution and prioritize safety when dealing with electrical appliances. If issues persist or if you are unsure about the cause, it is advisable to seek professional assistance.

Indeed, these are common issues that can occur in any house, and we aim to inform our neighbors. Before contacting a professional, homeowners or residents must check carefully. Many of these issues can be resolved quickly by the occupants of the property. However, if there's any doubt or uncertainty, it is always advisable to seek the assistance of a professional. Safety should be a top priority, and professionals are there to help when needed.