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Post by gridbug on May 20, 2008 7:30:31 GMT -5
As part of my personal program to stimulate the economy I need a good electrician. My house is 108 years old. My wiring does not exactly meet modern requirements. I want the wiring cleaned up for most of the switches so I can install automated dimmer switches. This is to be done with the existing wiring, just disconnected and hooked up RIGHT. My three old fuseboxes need to be replaced with one modern fusebox. I need a new 220v connection installed for a new spa. I figure anyone can do #2 & 3, I'm looking for someone good enough to do #1. So the electrician that does #1 right gets the other work too Does anyone know a good electrician with experience cleaning up old wiring that they can recommend?
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Post by daworm on May 20, 2008 8:42:30 GMT -5
If your existing wiring does not have a separate ground, and for you age of a house, it likely does not, then it cannot be hooked up RIGHT, period. Most old houses were originally wired knob and tube, with paper or cloth wrapped, sometimes tar soaked, wire ran to the outlets and light fixtures, with only hot and neutral wires, no ground wire. That old wire is a fire hazard in its own right, and the lack of ground would keep any of it from meeting code were it to be installed today.
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rossbilly
Senior Member
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Posts: 542
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Post by rossbilly on May 20, 2008 8:52:53 GMT -5
I've worked with electricity (ac & dc) for a number of years, and have a few helpful suggestions: 1. Be prepared to spend for quality - there are entirely too many wannabe bubba electricians in this area, that do not comprehend good grounding concepts. Price won't be a guarantee, but isn't your life more important than saving a couple hundred $$$ ? 2. Your 3 old fuseboxes need to be replaced with one modern circuit breaker panel (not fusebox). Not trying to be a smart-alec, but the correct terminology will help avoid greedy persons mentioned in #1. 3. Look into energy-efficient upgrades; many electricity companies will provide incentive to save energy. You can even write-off some of the costs on your taxes, if I'm not mistaken. 4. Consider having the electrician run other cables while working, usually for a small fee, such as installing satellite / computer wires (useful when you can't, or don't have the necessary tools). 5. MOST pros will stick with products made by Square D, and avoid lesser quality materials (or compatibility issues). Ask whether they will install copper wiring, or aluminum (not that big a deal, but the aluminum wiring needs to be checked for proper tightening every year.) Good luck, and be safe!
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Post by gridbug on May 20, 2008 9:14:31 GMT -5
I'm already there Billy 1) I won't give up quality for a few bucks. 2) Terminology noted - thanks 3) Although it stops me from using CF bulbs, the switches I am installing are all remotely controlled dimmer switches. Dimmable CF bulbs are hard to get and expensive, and I like it dark 4) I'm running a separate system of conduit for low voltage wiring myself. 5) I need existing copper wiring fixed, and anything new will be copper too. I am NOT trying to salvage the knob & tube. I have newer wires already in the walls, they just happen to have been hooked up by one or more morons. I've already had a few switches upgraded - it can be done - I just need more done. Although tearing up walls is a possibility where necessary, I'll avoid it where I can. Thanks for your input
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Copperhead
Forumite
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What goes around, comes around.
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Post by Copperhead on May 20, 2008 9:37:04 GMT -5
KC Electric did some work for us and we are well pleased. 987-3113 will get you to one of the owners.
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SunnyKC
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Post by SunnyKC on May 20, 2008 12:40:12 GMT -5
It may have taken me 15 years.. but it CAN be done.. :-)
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Post by gridbug on May 20, 2008 12:45:57 GMT -5
Not Sunny KC
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Post by Justin Thyme on May 20, 2008 17:31:07 GMT -5
Just check with the county electrical inspector about permits needed. It would be good to have the work inspected before final payment is made and I think if you get the permits you will have to have the inspections.
The electrical inspector is your friend in getting the job done right.
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SunnyKC
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Post by SunnyKC on May 30, 2008 11:14:43 GMT -5
I know most of them by first name....
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Post by el Gusano on May 30, 2008 12:01:13 GMT -5
I know most of them by first name.... And most of them know you by one name, as well: "Oh, her..."
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Homebrew Dave
Full Forumite
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We're drinkers, we're liars. But we're men.
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Post by Homebrew Dave on May 30, 2008 15:34:23 GMT -5
No Gus...they know her by "Oh, her....again!"
Dave
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SunnyKC
Forumite
Wolf Wrangler
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Post by SunnyKC on Jun 2, 2008 13:44:15 GMT -5
but I finally passed!! :-) and live happily ever after......
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