Breakers trip due to overloads caused by plugging too many appliances into the circuit, a worn cord or defective appliance, or operating an appliance with too high a voltage requirement for the circuit. The starting of an electric motor can also trip a breaker (motors require more current to start than they require when operating).
If any circuit trips repeatedly, unplug all items connected to it and reset. If it trips when nothing is connected to it, you need an electrician. If the circuit remains on, one of the items you unplugged is defective and will require repair or replacement.
GFCI receptacles have a built-in element that senses fluctuations in power. Quite simply, the GFCI is a circuit breaker. Building codes require installation of these receptacles in bathrooms, the kitchen, outside, and the garage (areas where an individual can come into contact with water while holding an electric appliance or tool). Heavy appliances such as freezers or power tools may trip the GFCI breaker.
Do not plug a refrigerator or food freezer into a GFCI-controlled outlet. The likelihood of the contents being ruined is high and the limited warranty does not cover such damage. These appliances should have their own separate dedicated outlet.
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Each GFCI receptacle has a test and reset button. Once each month, press the test button. This will trip the circuit. To return service, press the reset button. If, during normal use, a GFCI breaker trips, reset the breaker. If it trips again it may indicate a faulty appliance and you will need to investigate the problem. It could also indicate a faulty GFCI, in which case you should call an electrician.
One GFCI breaker can control up to three or four outlets. Generally all the bathroom receptacles are protected by one GFCI outlet. Another protects the garage, basement and exterior receptacles. The GFCI for your Jacuzzi, if applicable, is located on the main electrical panel. The GFCI for the exterior lamppost is usually on its own circuit, most often found in the corner of the garage. This GFCI only works when the post lamp is on.
Grounded System
Your electrical system is a three-wire grounded system. Never remove the bare wire that connects to the box or device.
Light Bulbs
You are responsible for replacing burned-out bulbs other than those noted during your orientation.
Modifications
If you wish to make any modifications, contact the electrician listed on the Emergency Phone Numbers you receive at the orientation. Having another electrician modify your electrical system during the warranty period can void that portion of your limited warranty.
Outlets
If an outlet is not working, check first to see if a wall switch controls it. If so, only one of the two receptacles on the outlet will be controlled by that wall switch. Next check to see if it is controlled by a GFCI. Finally, check the breaker. If the outlet still is not working, call the electrician for service.
If there are small children in the home, install safety plugs to cover unused outlets. This also minimizes the air infiltration that sometimes occurs with these outlets. Teach children never to touch electrical outlets, sockets, or fixtures.
Underground Cables
Before digging, check the location of buried service leads by calling Miss Utility at 1-800-257-7777. Maintain positive drainage around the foundation to protect this service.
GOODIER BUILDERS Limited Warranty
During the orientation we confirm that light fixtures are in acceptable condition and that all bulbs are working. GOODIER BUILDERS limited warranty excludes any fixture you supplied.
Designed Load
GOODIER BUILDERS will repair any electrical wiring that fails to carry its designed load to meet specifications. If electrical outlets, switches, or fixtures do not function as intended, GOODIER BUILDERS will repair or replace them.
GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupters)
GOODIER BUILDERS is not responsible for food spoilage that results from your plugging refrigerators or freezers into a GFCI controlled outlet.
Power Surge
Power surges are the result of local conditions beyond the control of GOODIER BUILDERS and are excluded from limited warranty coverage. These can result in burned-out bulbs or damage to sensitive electronic equipment such as TVs, alarm systems, and computers. Damage resulting from lightning strikes is excluded from limited warranty coverage.
