Q: My dusk to dawn motion detector doesn’t come on. What’s causing this?

A:  There is a switch inside the house that needs to be turned on.

Q: My dusk to dawn light doesn’t go off and remains on all day. Do I need to replace it?

A:  First find the sensor and see if it is being obscured by something. If not, we can probably just replace this sensor.

Q: Is there a special receptacle I should install outside?

A:  Yes, there is a special box with a cover designed to protect. In addition, the receptacle should also have ground-fault circuit-interrupt protection.

Q: Can I use any extension cord outside?

A:  Never use an interior extension cord outside. Exterior extension cords are designed with a tough outer jacket that protects the inner wire. Protect outdoor extension cord connections by using a plastic outlet cover.

Q: What’s causing my fluorescent fixture to hum?

A:  The ballast probably needs to be replaced. Another sign of a faulty ballast is black tar-like substance oozing from the fixture.

Q: Do all of the outlets in my kitchen need to have ground-fault circuit interrupters?

A:  No, if the first in the series is GFCI, then all are protected.

Q: Do I need to buy a special bulb for my garage door opener?

A:  It’s best to use a rough service bulb.

Q: Can I get a FREE Estimate?

A:  Now, it's understood that a consumer wants, and has the right to know what a particular product or service will cost them, but in all fairness (to both parties) there are a few things that should be understood. Giving an estimate on an installation is sometimes easier than giving one on repairs. A Contractor may be reluctant to come give an estimate on repair work unless they are assured of getting the job if their price is within some predetermined limits. If the answer to the problem is not immediately obvious, you may expect to pay something for these diagnostic services. Repairs may sometimes have a very simple solution, but it may take some extensive labor and troubleshooting procedures to find out what that solution is, and the Contractor has a right to be compensated for this. Recommendation: Choose a Reputable Local Contractor (with references if necessary).

Q: My lights were off but now they’re on, I guess I don’t need you.

A:  Wrong, wrong, wrong!! If power goes out and back on by itself it is a sign of a poor connection somewhere in the circuit. This is the type of thing that can build up heat to dangerous levels if not located promptly and repaired.

Q: Can’t you just put in a bigger breaker?

A:  No. The breaker size is directly related to the size of the smallest wire in that circuit. It is rated to ensure that the current does not exceed the safe limits of the wiring. The breaker size cannot be increased without changing to larger wires