FAQs, Answered By Cheetah Electric

A circuit breaker or fuse cuts off electricity when there's too much flow in the circuit, usually caused by a short circuit. Specialized breakers like GFI and Arc Fault can detect irregularities that pose safety hazards and trip to prevent accidents. GFIs are installed in places with water to protect against electrical shock, and they cut power in as little as one thirtieth of a second upon detecting any change in power flow. Arc Fault Breakers trip when arcing is detected in the circuit, preventing overheating that can lead to fires.

A tripped breaker is good because it means your breaker is working properly. Danger arises when it fails to trip. A tripped breaker occurs when there's excessive electricity flow. If the breaker stays on after reset, it's probably fine. But if it trips again, there's likely a short that needs fixing. An old breaker could be the problem, requiring replacement by an experienced electrician.

No. While a smaller breaker can be a nuisance, a larger breaker is dangerous. When you install a breaker of a particular size, you have to pair it with fitting wires.

When an outlet can no longer secure plugs, replacing it becomes the sole solution. The prongs inside the outdated outlet can loosen due to frequent use and time. In an attempt to stabilize the plug, some individuals may bend the prongs outward. Unfortunately, this practice is detrimental to the plug and further exacerbates the outlet's malfunction. Therefore, the best course of action is to have the worn-out outlet replaced to prevent any electrical hazards and ensure optimal functionality.

No. Popping, crackling, or sizzling noises indicate a loose connection behind the wall plate may be the issue. Loose connections have the potential to overheat and melt wires, which can be a safety hazard and potentially lead to a fire. Switches are prone to wear and tear over time, so they need to be replaced to prevent further issues.

If you have a chirping smoke detector, it's best to start by replacing the batteries. However, if the chirping persists, the smoke detector may be defective and require replacement. Manufacturers suggest replacing smoke detectors every 10 years. To determine the age of the smoke detector, detach it from its mounting plate on the ceiling or wall, and locate the stamped manufacturing date on the back.

To save energy at home, start by turning off lights in unoccupied rooms, lowering the temperature on electric water heaters, reducing air conditioner usage, and air-drying clothes to minimize dryer usage. Upgrading to high-efficiency LED bulbs and appliances, such as dishwashers, water heaters, and air conditioners, can also result in significant energy savings. For optimal results, combining both strategies of lowering usage and upgrading to high-efficiency appliances is the way to go.