As a rule, the bottom of any hanging light should be at least 6’8″ off the ground – unless it’s over a table or island. When you have an 8′ ceiling, this doesn’t give you a whole lot of room to play. If you long for the grand impact of a decorative

A room with a single light fixture is depressing. Kick the shadows by adding multiple light sources. A few stylish flush-mount ceiling lights. Some table lamps. An accent light here or there. When you have multiple lights shining in different directions, the space will feel lighter and more open. Make sure to place ceiling lights at least 3′ from the wall, any closer and harsh shadows will make your ceiling seem lower. 

5-pin SPDT (single pole, double throw) automotive relay.

Relays are essentially two parts in one package. The first part is an inductive coil (pins 85 and 86). This coil is the “trigger” function of the relay. By applying both a positive (+) and ground (-) to the contacts, current passes through the coil. When current passes through the coil, a magnetic field is generated and moves the switch (the arrow in the diagram). This is where the second part of the relay comes into play.

The second part of the relay is the “switch.” The switch has three interface contacts—common, normally closed, and normally open. “Normally” refers to the state of the relay not being energized.

While relays can be used for virtually any task, there are some very useful, simple applications for adding LED lighting to a vehicle. Please note that this wiring only pertains to the relay—not the wires in the vehicle. Before interfacing with a wire in a vehicle, always ensure you test the wire with a digital multimeter first to confirm circuit function.

Positive Switching

Positive switching is used for applications where the “trigger” for your switch or circuit is positive. This could be an ignition, brake, or reverse light wire for example.  This could be used for applications such as off-road light bars, work lights, additional brake lights, and other exterior lighting.

Negative Switching

Negative switching is used for applications where the “trigger” for your switch or circuit is negative. Negative triggers are often found in door, hatch, and trunk triggers as well as many interior switches. This could be used for applications such as footwell lighting, truck bed lighting, under-hood lighting, and other interior lighting.

Switch Activated With Ignition Override

This is useful for applications where you want to turn your light on or off with a switch but only want the light to remain on when the car is running or key is in the “ignition” position. The main advantage to this is—even if the switch is left on—the light (or output circuit) will shut off when the key is turned off so that the battery will not be run down.

For technical questions, don’t hesitate to call us toll free at 866-590-3533. Our customer service and technical support teams are available from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. CDT Monday-Thursday and 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. CDT on Friday.

You have probably heard a lot about green living lately. The term is pretty broad, but basically, it means learning to be more reliant on renewable energy sources and protecting the environment and in many cases, saving a few dollars. Green homes are one way you can fulfill all three of these things.

Green Home

What is a green home? It isn’t a house painted green! It is a home that relies on a renewable power source, like the sun. Solar-powered homes use to be very rare. However, in today’s tough economic times and the rise in electric costs, they are quickly become a viable option. An electrician in Burbank can help answer any questions you may have about solar power and what it can do for you. The experts at The Electric Connection are here to talk with you about your options and explain to you how it all works.

Solar Power

Solar power isn’t what it used to be. Nowadays, the panels are relatively small, but just as effective as their predecessors. Many homes rely solely on solar power combined with backup generators. However, if you are not willing to completely give up your connection to the power grid, you don’t have to, but you can still use solar power for the majority of your power needs. This is something you will want to talk about with your electrician. Burbank residents know the value of saving a dollar and with solar power; you will certainly save more than a mere dollar.

There is an initial investment cost to installing a solar power system with panels. However, this investment is well worth it. Imagine what it would be like to cut your electric bill in half every month? If you are interested in learning more about solar power, please call us at The Electric Connection. We would be happy to provide you with the specifics needed and your options.

With the arrival of spring and all the new beginnings it offers, we think it’s the perfect time to inspect your major household appliances and ensure they’re working properly and efficiently. Homeowners often dread the thought of spring cleaning, but because of the potential savings that come with efficient appliances, not to mention the added peace of mind, this may become your new favorite task!