Question:
How dangerous is electrical wiring?
How Dangerous Is Electrical Wiring?
Electrical wiring is designed to be as safe as possible. The average user will never see long lengths of bare copper wire; instead most wire used in residential electrical systems and electronics is insulated to protect against electrocution, crossed wires and short circuits.
This safety feature does not mean that electrical wiring is safe to handle or work on without precautions. Never attempt to dismantle, repair or modify an electrical appliance or machine without completely disconnecting it from a wall socket or power source. Even when the unit is unplugged, there is still a danger of electrocution if you don't know what you're doing. Many electric devices contain something called a capacitor which retains an electric charge even when the unit is completely unplugged. It is important to treat all electrical wiring, appliances and other items which come in contact with live current with respect and the understanding that even when turned off and unplugged, there is still potential for electrocution.
Circuit Breakers Frequently Asked Questions
How does an electrical surge work?
What is a whole house surge protector?
Can I install a whole house surge protector myself?
What should I do with my old circuit breakers?
Can I padlock my circuit breakers?
What should I know about circuit breaker locking systems?
What is a dual-pole circuit breaker?
Why does a dual pole circuit breaker work?
How many circuit breakers can I add to my breaker box?
What can I do if I am running out of room in my breaker box?
What is an FPE air circuit breaker?
Is there still an electrocution hazard with the mains turned off?
Why do my new circuit breakers keep tripping?
What is a low voltage circuit breaker?
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Can I use a different brand for replacement circuit breakers?
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What information do I need to purchase a replacement motor starter?
Why is my motor starter noisy?
Why does my motor starter click but not turn on?
Why does my motor starter turn over slowly?
How can I tell if my motor starter is bad?
Can I use a manual motor starter as a disconnect switch for maintenance purposes?
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Why do I need AFCI Circuit Breakers?
What is a counterfeit Square D circuit breaker?
What is the National Electrical Code?
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Where can I get electrical code training?
How dangerous is electrical wiring?
My mains are off. Am I safe from electrocution?
What should I know about high voltage electrical safety?
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Can a damaged appliance cause my Seimens breakers to trip?
Will installing a circuit breaker other than the type specified in the manual void my warranty?
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Where can I find more information on counterfeit electrical products?
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What happens to re-certified or re-conditioned circuit breakers?
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What should I do when taking delivery of a large transformer?
What issues should I be aware of for large transformers?
What is a voltage transformer?
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Can I use a flashlight to see my circuit breaker panel during installation of new breakers?
What would happen if my circuit breaker did not trip?
What are "replacement only" circuit breakers?
What should I do to protect my electrical system in case of a flood?
What should I do if the area near my breaker panel is flooded?
I smell something burning and see sparks. Is this my electrical system?
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| Byron White |
