FAQ
My power is out, what do I do?
ln house - Sometimes you'll notice approximately half your circuits are not working, or an appliance may seem to turn on but not function properly. This usually means one of the hot wires entering your home or building from Edison is somehow interrupted. Call the electric company.
Whole house - Again, a problem with the electric company. Could be a local transformer out, or a larger system-wide problem.
Small area of home - Usually a problem with internal wiring. Call us.
Why do my lights dim intermittently?
This may indicate a problem with the electric company. This may also indicate loose wiring either within your home or outside. It could also be a sign of an undersized circuit or undersized electrical service.
Is a back-up generator for me? The answer is yes, if:
- You live in an area that is prone to frequent electrical outages.
- You want to ensure operation of basic home or business mechanical functions such as heat, sump pumps, wells, and refrigeration.
- You want to ensure continued operation of home medical devices, such as oxygen machines, sleep apnea machines, electric hospital beds, etc.
- For peace of mind if you are a senior, or have parents who desire to live independently.
- You rely heavily on computers, and want to ensure their continued operation to minimize loss of sensitive data (when used with UPS Systems).
What are code requirements for?
Ground Fault Protection (GFCI) Code: Requires GFCI protection (GFCI outlets) near most water sources, outside locations, garages, unfinished basements and crawl spaces. GFCI's prevent persons from being electrocuted due to accidental contact with electricity.
Arc Fault Protection (AFCI): Michigan Code supersedes National Electrical Code for AFCI's. AFCI's are no longer required in Michigan residential 1 and 2 family home construction.
Hot Tubs: Hot tubs generally require a 50amp Ground Fault (GFCI) protected circuit. They also require 1 GFCI 120v receptacle within 10 feet, but no closer the 5 feet, from the edge of the tub.
Pools: Pools have special GFCI, grounding, and bonding requirements.
Do I need surge protection?
Surge protection will help minimize damage to sensitive electronics and appliances in the event of lightning or other electrical surges. You can buy individual surge arrestors for each appliance, and/or have whole-home surge arrestors installed at the electrical panel.
Do I need a service upgrade?
If you are tired of replacing fuses or you need room for more circuits in your existing panel, then it may be time to consider a service panel upgrade. Increasing the size of the panel and the service cable coming into your home or building may help reduce intermittent dimming of lights.
What is Interruptible Air Conditioning?
In exchange for a lower rate, you agree to allow the electric company to interrupt the power to your central air for up to 15 minutes per hour. This interruption is usually not noticeable, and allows the electric company to better manage their electric demand. Interruptible AC requires some rewiring and a separate meter. The cost of this work usually pays for itself in the long run.
Ground Fault Protection (GFCI) Code: Requires GFCI protection (GFCI outlets) near most water sources, outside locations, garages, unfinished basements and crawl spaces. GFCI's prevent persons from being electrocuted due to accidental contact with electricity.
Arc Fault Protection (AFCI): Michigan Code supersedes National Electrical Code for AFCI's. AFCI's are no longer required in Michigan residential 1 and 2 family home construction.
Hot Tubs: Hot tubs generally require a 50amp Ground Fault (GFCI) protected circuit. They also require 1 GFCI 120v receptacle within 10 feet, but no closer the 5 feet, from the edge of the tub.
Pools: Pools have special GFCI, grounding, and bonding requirements.
Do I need surge protection?
Surge protection will help minimize damage to sensitive electronics and appliances in the event of lightning or other electrical surges. You can buy individual surge arrestors for each appliance, and/or have whole-home surge arrestors installed at the electrical panel.
Do I need a service upgrade?
If you are tired of replacing fuses or you need room for more circuits in your existing panel, then it may be time to consider a service panel upgrade. Increasing the size of the panel and the service cable coming into your home or building may help reduce intermittent dimming of lights.
What is Interruptible Air Conditioning?
In exchange for a lower rate, you agree to allow the electric company to interrupt the power to your central air for up to 15 minutes per hour. This interruption is usually not noticeable, and allows the electric company to better manage their electric demand. Interruptible AC requires some rewiring and a separate meter. The cost of this work usually pays for itself in the long run.
