An electrical circuit works as a loop where electricity flows from a source and then returns to that point again after powering the device connected to it. The power flow interrupts or stops if the path is broken. There are also receptacles, fixtures, or switches joined to the course through different types of electrical wiring.

Every electrical circuit has a specific breaker or fuse that controls it. Inside the main electrical panel of your house, you will find reference numbers to identify which breaker or fuse is assigned to which circuit. Mapping of them is a standard electrical safety procedure.

power company supplies electricity to your home through the transmission and distribution lines. The energy enters the service panel, also known as the fuse or breaker box, after passing through a meter. Then, the box has three wires (hot, neutral, and ground featuring insulation of different colors) that do the jobs of transmitting the power to an external outlet, returning to the source, and providing the ground.

The wires of your home are generally installed in three ways:

It’s a wiring system where a single electrical circuit supplies power for several devices. There are various housing boxes from where both hot and neutral wires emerge and run along the route. They branch off to single receptacle and fixture.

It’s the most common of all the systems seen in residential settings.

Switch Wiring

Installed on hot wires, such a system has switches that either transmit or break the current flow to various devices or lighting fixtures. A switch changes its position to allow or interrupt the flow of electricity to electrical machines and instruments.

The system routes the hot wire through various fixtures before joining to the neutral one, which then carries the power to the source. It’s the least used and most inconvenient of all the types because it connects the devices, i.e., lights in a series. So, the circuit breaks off when just one light is burnt out.

Parallel wiring is the best option for household settings because it does not break even when one of the connected fixtures goes kaput. Nevertheless, remember not to run too many electronics from one source because each circuit can carry only a maximum electrical flow.

In need of a 24-hour electrician in Washington, DC? The experts at Kolb Electric would urge caution! We’ve spent some time talking about scammers in the past, and this situation could put you at risk. Wondering how? For starters, when you need an electrician RIGHT NOW you’re more likely to pay less attention to credentials and reputation. This could lead to shoddy work, dangerous wiring fixes, or just a plain scam!

Looking for a reliable and certified 24-hour electrician in Washington, DC? Contact Kolb Electric right away!

On the surface, nothing at all. Our team offers reliable 24-hour services, and most certified and licensed electricians do. The worry here is pressure. You’re in a pickle, and need a solution right now. And for each trusted professional out there, there’s a scammer who knows you don’t have the time to worry about credentials.

In our posts about scamming and why you should choose a trusted electrician, we talk about how to go about recognizing trustworthy service. We detail things like looking for certification, and checking local peer reviews. And these are all super-duper important! Thing is, you’ve got an emergency on your hands. No one has time to do research in a time like that.

Well, you can certainly do a quick online check. Sites like the BBB (Better Business Bureau) can give you a good idea of whether or not you’re dealing with an accredited and trusted business. But taking your time usually yields better results. The key is to find a team beforehand.

As homeowners, we like having “regulars.” Businesses that we know we can call when we need answers. We do it with a family doctor, or local food joints that we love. Why not do it with home services, too? You should always have major businesses hand-picked for your needs before you need them. Find some roofers, find an HVAC expert, and of course, find an electrician!

Follow these steps to find a reliable electrician for your home:

Our certified and licensed professionals have been providing dependable, trustworthy service to Maryland, DC, and Virginia for nearly a century! We’re proud to say that our satisfied consumers always turn to our team in an emergency. Need a 24-hour electrician in Washington, DC? Contact us!

Everyone loves a beautifully decorated and well lit house on Christmas, but you should remember to keep safety in mind. A lot of lights, cords, and wires are covering your house, and although they are beautiful, you should be aware of what you are risking and maybe consider some alternatives. Here are some tips and tricks to make sure you stay cheery and bright:

Don’t use Grandma’s old Lights – I know they may mean something to you and they might be charming and rustic, but they are not safe to use considering their age. You could be posing a risk. Instead consider using cooler LEDs that are longer lasting.

Keep Cords Together and out of the Way – Make sure all cords are out of the way of where people may walk so no one trips or rips the cords out. Consider tape or clips to keep them together and out of the way!

Damaged Goods – If it looks frayed or damaged in any way, don’t risk it! A skilled electrician might be able to contact an electrician.