Are you having power go out intermittently? Are some lights and receptacles working in some rooms while others are not? Are some outlets going out randomly, then coming back on again?

You may have a problem with corrosion at the meter main distribution panel outside.

Our salty air combined with humidity causes the aluminum wire connections at the panels to collect salt crystals and break down the conductive wires and termination points, causing weak conductivity or a break altogether. This could be a fire hazard. There could be a hot spot from an electrical arc or exposed live wires, not just the lights going out.

Solution? After determining that indeed the problem is the above with a diagnostic check; first, we need to call the utility company and have an on-call service man to come out and turn off the power coming in from the pole. Next, one of our licensed electricians will be there to clean off the metal parts inside the meter panel box. He will scrub the corroded aluminum electrical metal parts with a wire brush, cover the metal with a special spray to inhibit future corrosion, and then apply an antioxidant material to the jaws of the meter clips and wire screw down points. Finally, tighten everything up and have the utility man plug the meter back in.

Now that should do it.

We use so much electricity, and do it so casually, that we don’t tend to stop and think about the outlets that provide us with our electricity very often. In fact, most of us only give outlets much thought when we are cursing the fact that there is not an available outlet when our phones are about to die. Do not be fooled by their ubiquity, though; our electrical outlets are among the most important features of our electrical systems. That is why it is so important that you know for certain that your outlets are appropriate for the task at hand. Below you’ll find some information regarding GFCI outlets. If you require any GFCI outlet services in Boston, MA, contact FB Electrical Services to get started.

A GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlet is one which provides homeowners with ample protection from electric shocks and, potentially, fatal electrocution. You would likely be able to identify one if you knew what you were looking for; these are the outlets which feature both “test” and “reset” buttons on the outlet face plate. GFCI outlets measure the electricity put forth against the electricity being used by the device in question. If there is a difference between the two levels above an allotted amount, the outlet determines that electricity is finding a way in which to ground itself: potentially through the body of the user. The electricity is shut off nearly instantaneously in such instances.

GFCI outlets are, according to the National Electric Code, now required in all new kitchens, bathrooms, unfinished basements, and in many outdoor receptacles. Generally speaking, it is a good idea to have GFCI outlets installed in any area where water is likely to be present (hence the aforementioned requirements). While not mandated by any law, many homeowners are choosing to replace outlets throughout their homes with GFCI models. Contact us if you have any questions or if you’d like to upgrade your outlets for better protection.

By Clarissa Allison | December 24th, 2015

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If the motor seems to be fine, attempt to reconnect it to a load. For motors spinning in the wrong direction that are three-phase, swap any two leads either in the starter or in the motor connection box to reverse its rotational direction. Motors that struggle with a load may have something plugged up or jammed in the load itself. A mechanic may be required to check fans, belts, or pumps that are powered by a motor. When a motor trips the overload device, attach an anmeter to measure the current during startup and operation. Check the FLA on the motor nameplate to see what the expected current draw should be. If it is high, the motor may simply be overloaded. If not, the overload protection device may be set too low or may need replacing.

By following these basic ac motor troubleshooting tips, any electrician can quickly determine the cause of most problems in an AC motor.