Electrocution via electrical outlets occurs when a person’s body completes a circuit from the electrical hot to the ground. This can happen if a metal object is inserted into an outlet, if there is a short in the outlet, or if water is touching the outlet or touching an appliance that is plugged into that outlet. When properly functioning, a GFCI senses any fluctuation in power and shuts off the power to that outlet in a fraction of a second. While the person touching the shorted circuit may receive a painful shock, the power is usually shut off before serious injury occurs.

GFCI receptacles should be tested once a month to ensure that they are providing proper protection. This is done by plugging a night light into the outlet, then pressing the “test” button; the light should go out. Pressing the “reset” button should bring the light back on. If the GFCI fails to operate properly, an electrician should be called to replace the receptacle.

First and foremost is to identify the correct fuse or breaker at the service panel that disconnects the power to the circuit being worked on. Second is to not only shut off the power to the circuit but post a written notice on the service panel that the power is off because it is being worked on. This way a family member who thinks it is just a blown fuse or breaker will not restore power while dad is up on the ladder wiring up the new ceiling fan.

A word of caution all homeowners with questionable wiring should adhere to is to not rely on just a wall switch cutting the power to a circuit. In some homes with faulty wiring, the return side of circuits instead of the hot side of circuits may be what is cut at the switch. This means that current is still at the appliance such as a ceiling fan, but the circuit is not complete because the return path is what is being switched off.

There are small current detecting devices available for homeowners that will add another layer of proof that the current to a circuit is off. They operate while the circuit has a load on it such as a light being on or a motor running. When the power is cut at the service panel, the current detector will indicate that electricity is no longer flowing in the circuit. These devices do not require contact with bare wires or terminals to work and are better than relying on just watching for the appliance to switch off. After all, it may just be that a light bulb burned out instead of the correct breaker being shut off.

Let’s look at the green or bare copper wire first.  That is your equipment ground.  This wire assures you will not be shocked by a potentially live piece of equipment. You will need the proper tools and trade knowledge to be sure that the ground wire is properly installed as a part of your electrical system.  Next, the black wire.  Don’t be surprised if you don’t have a black wire, this may be red, or another color – as long as its not white, grey or green, it’s the power wire.  The power wire is your ready source of electricity for the fixture.  You must understand the power available on that wire circuit and it’s over-current protection capacity, as well as isolated as single circuit source of power.  Finally, the white wire.  This wire is your grounded conductor.  Proper termination of this wire is essential to your home system.  This balances the alternating electrical current used by the fixture and supplied by your home electrical service via the black wire.

Let’s cover a few basics about these wires.  Let’s first make sure the equipment ground is properly installed.  Follow the instructions provided with your new fixture which explains where to connect the equipment ground.  Next, you attach the white wire to the corresponding nuetral on the new fixture.  Finally connect the power wire to the red or black wire provided with the new fixture, and always be sure to properly use correctly sized wire nuts.

Please keep in mind that the 3 wires coming out of your ceiling have a source, and possibly a further destination if it’s a branch circuit.  If you feel comfortable working with electricity, changing a light fixture is certainly a project a homeowner may accomplish.  Please remember safety is more important than the cost of your fixture, your existing home electric, and any future demands you may put on your home electrical system. If you’re uncertain of any facet of the project, please don’t hesitate to contact a licensed and insured electrician for their expertise on the matter.

Plan everything out.  Then plan again – There’s an old carpenter’s saying, measure twice, cut once.  By being meticulous in your planning, you can try to avoid a lot of headaches down the road. Make sure you completely review bids from contractors and don’t select one just because they are the cheapest or are available right away. Do your homework. Choose the design materials carefully to avoid costly changes later.

Consider Design and Contractor Costs – Many large scale remodeling projects will require the services of a professional interior designer, architect or contractor. Insist that each bid include a detailed proposal on the scope of the work. Do some homework to determine if the fees are comparable when you shop for rates. The cheapest bidder may leave you with the clean-up and finishing work. The most expensive bids may include oversight costs that you can do yourself.

Set Milestones – Develop cost and time line goals and adhere to them as much as possible. By making a list of several tasks out of the overall larger project makes it easier to estimate the costs and manage the time line later.

Hire Professional Contractors – Good architects, designers and contractors will add to the initial price of the project, but can save you a lot of money and frustration in the long run. Their experience will help you find pitfalls early that can cause budget and scope creep later. So how do you find a good architect or contractor? Ask around and be diligent.  Word of mouth and referrals are a great way to find reliable, trustworthy professionals that have done good work in the past.  Check out online sites which offer customer reviews, such as Service Magic and Angies List.

Stay Involved – Even if you hire a contractor be available to pitch in where you can. By doing some of the destruction or demo work yourself you can save on the bottom line cost. If you’re good enough, do some of the final finishing work yourself to help lower the costs. Painting, touch up or installing faucets or other fixtures yourself can keep you within budget and give you the satisfaction of knowing you did some of the work yourself.

Careful with Customizations – Using custom cabinetry, windows, doors or other products can quickly increase costs for any remodeling project. This is one area where you can exercise a great deal of control over the remodeling costs. A standard window at your local home improvement store may cost $250, but a custom-sized window will cost at least double. Some elements of the project may have to be custom made due to size requirements. But some product categories – such as windows, doors and cabinetry – offer a wide variety of standard or semi-custom choices. Adding your own trim or details later may make these standard choices look customized.

Stay On Target – Remain focused and don’t get sidetracked. For example, if you are painting your bedroom and you discover that the adjoining bathroom paint now looks dingy, don’t stop what you’re doing to go work on that. Schedule the bathroom paint upgrade for another weekend. The desire to add or change along the way will be tempting and may prove irresistible. If your remodeling projects stick to the original plan, most would finish on time and within budget.

The larger the size and scope of your remodeling project the better chance you will have of running over budget.  So don’t only plan for the project, budget for at least 10% more than what you think the project will cost and make price consideration choices accordingly.  If you make a plan and stick to it, you’ll find less surprises along the way.  And you’ll also be a lot happier with the outcome.

For example, it used to be that you could use two conductors (“the black wire”) with a shared neutral (“the white wire”) and both circuits sharing that neutral would have independent circuit breakers.  Through code revisions, now those 2 circuits must be on a 2 pole breaker, basically if one shorts or trips so does the other.  So how does that effect you, and any electrical contracts you had performed, which do not meet the new code requirements? The code only provides the bare minimums in terms of safety, with safety as its ultimate consideration.

Now, as a homeowner, if you just had electrical work performed which did not meet this new code requirement, you don’t have to rush out and have it all replaced as long as the work you did have performed met the code at the time (i.e., passed electrical inspection, or was performed by a licensed electrical contractor).  In this particular instance, the code change was more for the safety of those servicing the system than the end user, but it is indicative of code changes which happen every 3 years.

So as a homeowner, you don’t have to worry about code changes as long as you’re using the services of a licensed electrical contractor who makes it their duty to keep up to date with recent changes in safety requirements.

In order to understand how to properly use ceiling fans to conserve energy it is important to understand just how they work. Have you ever been outside on a hot day when, all of a sudden, you felt a cool breeze that instantly made you feel more comfortable? This is called the wind chill factor and it is the same principle behind ceiling fans. Fans do not actually change the temperature of a room. Rather, they accelerate the evaporation of perspiration on your skin which is what makes you feel cooler. It can therefore make a person feel 8 degrees cooler even though the room temperature is technically the same. It is important to understand that fans do not cool rooms, they cool people. Therefore ceiling fans should never run unless people are in the room to benefit from their cooling power. During winter months, fans can actually be used to distribute heat more effectively in a room. Since hot air is lighter than cold air, it rises to the ceiling and gets stuck while cold air remains closer to the ground level. If a ceiling fan is run in reverse (clockwise), which is usually as simple as flipping a switch on the fan’s body, it can more evenly distribute the hot air particles. This way the heat will be where you need it rather than being stuck at your ceiling.

Another important point to mention is that in order to most effectively use ceiling fans to save energy and money they must be used inversely with your thermostat. In other words, if you are using ceiling fans to cool yourself, the thermostat should be turned up at least 4 degrees. Likewise if you are using a fan to reduce heating costs, the thermostat should be turned down.

Recently, the energy saving potential of ceiling fans is being further exploited by manufacturers. By using more aerodynamic fan blades and more energy efficient light kits, major ceiling fan manufacturers like Westinghouse and Concord are offering fans specifically aimed towards consumers with conservation in mind. The best way to find these fans is by looking for the “Energy Star” label distributed by the U.S. Department of Energy. Fans that are awarded this label conserve at least 10% more energy than a standard ceiling fan. When shopping, you can find the most energy efficient fans by seeking those with the highest airflow, measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), and by looking for fans that use the lowest amount of power (watts) at each speed. Using Energy Star approved light kits for your fans, which often contain fluorescent bulbs, will drastically reduce the amount of electricity consumed. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Energy offers various tax incentives for installing products that conserve energy.

In addition to being valuable conservation tools, ceiling fans can be a beautiful addition to your home, office, or apartment. Manufacturers offer fans in a wide array of shapes, sizes, and designs. Fans are now being manufactured in exciting new finishes like oil rubbed bronze and burnished brass, as well as being available with a plethora of light kit options. From traditional, Victorian inspired fans that double as chandeliers, to adventurous designs inspired by modern art, there are surely ceiling fans that will fit your taste and lifestyle. Well crafted fans are a sure way to increase the value of your real estate while adding to the aesthetic beauty of your surroundings.

Since we are in an energy crisis, we all have a responsibility to do our part to help, however small that part may be. Simply purchasing an energy efficient ceiling fan is an excellent way to save money on energy bills, increase the value of your real estate, and beautify your surroundings. Most importantly, while you sit under a beautiful new ceiling fan you can be assured that you are helping to conserve our planet’s valuable resources.

Research Prices and State Your Budget Upfront

A typical situation for a Local contractor involves him or her suggesting an upgrade to the project and the client agreeing to it without committing to a rigid pricing scheme. As soon as this happens, the contractor is encouraged to not only to charge a high price for the upgrade, but also to suggest other upgrades that he can overcharge for. Contractors love dealing with clients who are not price sensitive or overly assertive because they have more leeway to upsell or adjust for extra costs. Therefore, sending the message that price is “not an issue” can be a very costly mistake.

Avoid Excessive Price Shopping

Make no mistake about it; price is an extremely important factor for almost every client of general contractors. However, many contractors find that some of their clients take this too, and hurt themselves in the process. Examples of this include bargaining the price down for upgrades, or claiming that another contractor will do the same thing for a cheaper price. Many in-demand contractors disapprove of overzealous price shoppers, and do not want to deal with them. If you send the message that you will negotiate every price fiercely, you risk tarnishing your relationship or completely losing a talented contractor. Thus, agreeing on a generally accepting or industry-accepted pricing scheme is recommended.

Do not Always Act Like an Expert

One of the main fears of many contractors is the client that thinks he or she is an expert. Very often they are not experts; rather, they are simply clients that are difficult to deal with. While local contractors may appreciate that you have prior understanding, it’s important to not watch them like a hawk and develop a good relationship. That’s why it’s important to give clear instructions and avoid ambiguity.

If you have some expertise in the contractor’s field and want to suggest alternate methods and strategies for the project, most contractors will appreciate your advice. Still, it’s important not to fall in the trap of micro-managing to the point of irritating your contractor-after all, you hired the contractor for a reason, right?

These guidelines should establish a proper relationship with prospective contractors, which will ensure that the best contractors want to work for you, and that they stay motivated throughout the project.

Variety

The vast variety of light bulbs and accessories that have entered the market has rubbed off on to light switches as well. This is the reason why people are replacing their dull looking light switches with ritzy modern designs. Redecorating interiors can be a very tedious job and you must be wondering how changing these tiny light switches is going to improve the look of your interior. Imagine you are wearing brand new apparel, carefully selected from among the best in the store. However, if your socks are the same old ones, then they are sure to make you look unattractive or incomplete. If you are investing heavily in getting some of the best light fixtures for your home, you should invest a bit of money and thought into the light switches also.

Switch Plates

One way to go about your selection is to choose the light switch plates that house several switches within a room. You can select from a wide range of light switch plates that will go along with the other arrangements within your home. It is not difficult to match light switch plates with the interior decorations of your house as there are thousands of options available to choose from. These already have the grooves where the switches ought to go.

Replacing a Light Switch

Light fixtures have two wires that are twisted over each other. You must untwist these wires so that the two of them lies flat on your palm. Then taking a sharp penknife or a blade, unsheathe the insulation on these two wires. About half an inch of exposed copper is sufficient. Now have ready your new light switch. These will have two tiny metal contacts where the wires ought to go. They will be packed with small screws, unscrew these. In the gaps formed, thrust the wires and then screw them tight again. You have to take care that the two uninsulated parts of the wires do not make contact in any way. That’s all that is required in replacing light switches.

Fun in Selection

But the fun is in the selection. If your furniture is white in color and wall has cool color then you can go for a light switch made from plastic. Or if your living room space has a stylish look and furniture is antique then hand rubbed finish copper light switch will be perfect for you. It will be entirely your choice which light switch will look nice in your home. If you have kids in your house then you can choose light switch plates which have decorations on them. Kids too feel attracted and fascinated to look at them.

Materials

There are lots of materials from which these light switches are made along with plastic and copper there is wood, metal, ceramic, glass, acrylic, and chinaware. And they are available in many colors and finish. You can choose according to your personality and interiors of your house. If you are worried where you will get the choices available in making a perfect selection for replacing light switches then don’t worry just put your computer on and browse all online stores on the Internet. Here you can compare the prices with other shops and see their quality as well and so without actually stepping out of your home you can replace your old light switch.

- Evaluate your resources and power sources. If you keep your lighting close to the house, you can save on installing new power outlets and additional wiring. If you do need to install wiring and outlets, there are do-it-yourself kits that you can install on your own. If you opt to install your own and you’re not a licensed, experienced electrician, though, do have your work inspected by one before using it.

- On the same note, check with your local code authorities before adding any outdoor power sources to be sure that you adhere to regulations. Nothing turns a cheap job into a huge expense faster than fines for violating local ordinances.

- Consider solar powered lights for walkways and paths. Solar powered stake lights are an extremely budget conscious option for path and safety lighting. You can buy them in sets of four or six at your local home and garden store for as little as $30. Installation is as simple as driving a stake into the ground. There are no wires, and no drain on your electric bill. Most are powered with a battery backup for those days when there’s not enough sun to power the lights.

- Consider safety first. Decoration is wonderful, but your first concern should be safety. Use motion sensor lighting to illuminate dark areas on your property without having lights glaring all night long. Do not skimp here – your safety is vital. Do, however, check with your insurance company. You may get a break on the premiums for making safety improvements.

- The second safety issue is illuminating pathways and steps to avoid falls and injuries. Path and stair lighting can be very decorative and attractive. One inexpensive option for stairway lighting are strips that fit along the edges of the risers. The light is indirect and shines down on each step so you and your visitors can see where you’re putting your feet.

- Less is definitely more when it comes to outdoor lighting. Avoid garish, overbright lights. An additional benefit to using fewer lights is a savings of wattage, and, in turn, expenses; both up front and in long term maintenance.

- Backlighting and low lights can add drama to a bland landscape. Choose a feature to highlight and use a single light behind it to cast it in silhouette. If you shine lights through a tree, the overall effect can be truly dramatic.

- Don’t be afraid to be tacky. Twinkling fairy lights may be overdone, but a single strand of tiny white Christmas lights twining a potted patio plant or edging the patio deck can be surprisingly effective.

- Turn to unusual sources. For instance, instead of using overhead or spotlighting for your patio or deck, rely on battery or solar operated table lanterns on your patio tables. Light your outdoor space just as you would your indoor space, taking into account ambient light and task lighting. Do not light what doesn’t need lighting.

- Driveway lighting serves two purposes. It should illuminate paths and walkways so that your guests and family can make their way safely from vehicle to house, and it should outline your driveway enough that drivers can navigate it safely. Consider walkway lights along the edges of the driveway, especially if the driveway is edged with stones, bushes or raised flowerbeds.

You can create many different effects without much investment if you take the time to plan your lighting blueprint as carefully as you do your landscaping. Find interesting features in your landscape and use light to accent them at night. Do keep in mind that light pollution has become a serious consideration when lighting at night. Keep the lights low, and angle them so that they do not disturb neighbors or local wildlife.

About the Author: Stephanie Larkin is a freelance writer who writes about topics pertaining to home maintenance such as Outdoor Equipment

Cordless power tools are relatively new compared to electric power tools. They have a light weight, compact design for less user fatigue and ease of use. They can go anywhere because they are battery operated and only require an outlet for charging purposes only. Most Cordless power tools range from 12 to 24 volts and have an average battery life of 2 hours.

Even though cordless power tool batteries have made leaps and bounds in technology for larger capacity batteries with longer lifetimes, electric power tools have far more power than any cordless tools of the same style. Cordless power tools have to keep their batteries small and compact for a lightweight design. Cordless power tools are not able to produce the same amount of torque and speeds compared to electric power tools.

Electric power tools have revolutionized our way of life since the turn of the century. Since then, every building in our country has had some kind of help from power tools in the building process. They are a simple designed tool that only requires a power outlet to plug into for operation. Electric power tools have an incredible amount of torque and can run at amazingly high speeds up to 14,000 RPM’s and more. Electric power tools are always ready to be used as long as there is a nearby outlet for a power source.

Even though electric power tools have massive amounts of power, they still require a live power outlet to operate. But sometimes you might be a distance away from an outlet or have no outlet. That’s alright because you can run extension cords to your work area from a nearby outlet or generator. But then you have extra safety hazards when you have live power running through your work area that must be taken into consideration. Always properly check all of your extension cords before using them.

Cordless and Electric power tools are great to have around but do have their limitations just like all tools have. It depends on the style of work that you do and where you do your work that you should consider before making your next power tool purchase. Either way that you decide to buy, you will always get a great power tool that will last you for years to come.

Some Power Tool Retailers:

• DeWalt
• Bosch Tools
• Makita Tools