Recently Asked Questions
Browse the latest questions from Ottawa homeowners.
How do I properly childproof my electrical outlets?
Childproofing electrical outlets is essential for home safety, and there are several effective methods ranging from simp...
Is it dangerous to overload a circuit?
Yes, overloading a circuit is extremely dangerous and can cause fires, damage to your electrical system, and potentially...
What does a home electrical inspection cost in Ottawa?
A home electrical inspection in Ottawa typically costs between $200-$400 for a standard residential property, with the p...
How do I add an outdoor outlet to my deck?
Adding an outdoor outlet to your deck requires an ESA permit and must be installed by a licensed electrician in Ontario....
Can I install landscape lighting without an electrician?
Installing landscape lighting yourself depends on the type of system and power source, but most installations in Ontario...
Why is one outlet in my house not working?
A single outlet not working is usually caused by a tripped breaker, blown fuse, tripped GFCI, loose wiring connection, o...
Do I need a dedicated circuit for my microwave?
Most microwaves don't require a dedicated circuit, but it depends on the wattage and your kitchen's existing electrical...
How much does pool electrical work cost in Ottawa?
Pool electrical work in Ottawa typically costs $2,000 - $8,000 depending on the complexity, with basic above-ground pool...
What is the electrical requirement for a sauna in Ontario?
Saunas in Ontario require dedicated 220V circuits with specific amperage based on heater size, GFCI protection, and prop...
Can I add an outlet in my closet for a safe?
Yes, you can add an outlet in your closet for a safe, but this requires a licensed electrician and an ESA permit since y...
How do I install a motion sensor light switch?
Installing a motion sensor light switch requires turning off power at the breaker and working with live wires - while ho...
Why do my LED recessed lights turn off by themselves?
LED recessed lights that turn off by themselves are typically experiencing thermal protection shutdown due to overheatin...
What is the cost of installing a transfer switch for a generator?
Installing a transfer switch for a generator in Ottawa typically costs between $1,500 and $4,000, depending on the size...
Can I connect a generator to my electrical panel myself?
No, you cannot legally connect a generator to your electrical panel yourself in Ontario. Generator connections require a...
How do I know if I have grounded outlets?
Grounded outlets have three holes - two vertical slots and a round hole below for the ground pin. If your outlets only h...
Why does my power go out when my neighbor's power comes back on?
This unusual situation typically indicates a shared electrical issue or problem with the utility transformer serving bot...
Is it safe to use extension cords for appliances long term?
No, extension cords should never be used as permanent wiring solutions for appliances. Extension cords are designed for...
What size generator do I need to run my whole house?
The size generator you need depends on your home's electrical load, but most Ottawa homes require a 15-20kW generator fo...
How do I add an outlet behind my wall-mounted TV?
Adding an outlet behind a wall-mounted TV requires running new wiring and typically needs an ESA permit in Ontario. This...
What is the best location for an electric vehicle (EV) charger in a garage?
The best location for an EV charger in your garage is typically on the wall closest to your electrical panel, positioned...
Do I need a permit to replace my electrical panel in Ottawa?
Yes, you absolutely need an ESA permit to replace your electrical panel in Ottawa. Panel replacement is considered major...
How much does it cost to install recessed lighting in a living room?
Installing recessed lighting in an Ottawa living room typically costs $150-$250 per light, with most living rooms requir...
Why does my GFCI outlet keep tripping with nothing plugged in?
A GFCI outlet that trips with nothing plugged in typically indicates a ground fault in the wiring itself, moisture infil...
Can I plug a space heater into a power bar?
You should never plug a space heater into a power bar or extension cord. Space heaters draw too much power and create a...
Is my landlord responsible for electrical repairs in Ontario?
Yes, in Ontario landlords are legally responsible for most electrical repairs and maintenance in rental properties. Unde...
How do I upgrade my outlets to USB outlets?
Upgrading to USB outlets is a straightforward replacement project that most homeowners can handle themselves, as long as...
What is the code requirement for smoke detectors in Ontario?
In Ontario, smoke detectors must be hardwired with battery backup, interconnected throughout the home, and installed on...
Can I install a ceiling fan on a dimmer switch?
No, you should never install a ceiling fan on a standard dimmer switch. Standard dimmers are designed for lights and can...
Why does my circuit breaker feel warm?
A warm circuit breaker is a warning sign that shouldn't be ignored - it indicates the breaker is working harder than it...
How much does it cost to add outdoor lighting in Ottawa?
Outdoor lighting installation in Ottawa typically costs between $200-800 per fixture for professional installation, with...
Do I need an electrician to install a Ring doorbell?
Most Ring doorbell installations don't require a licensed electrician, but it depends on your specific situation and the...
What causes the lights to flicker throughout the entire house?
Whole-house light flickering typically indicates a problem with your main electrical service, loose connections at the p...
Can I add a 240V outlet for my welder in my garage?
Yes, you can add a 240V outlet for your welder in your garage, but this requires a licensed electrician and an ESA permi...
How do I reset a GFCI outlet that won't reset?
If your GFCI outlet won't reset, there's likely an underlying electrical issue that needs to be identified and fixed bef...
Is it safe to leave a power bar plugged in all the time?
Yes, it's generally safe to leave a quality power bar plugged in all the time, but there are important safety considerat...
What are the signs of faulty electrical wiring?
Faulty electrical wiring shows several warning signs that Ottawa homeowners should never ignore - from flickering lights...
How often should electrical wiring be replaced in an old house?
Electrical wiring doesn't have a fixed replacement schedule, but most residential wiring lasts 40-70 years depending on...
Can I use my dryer outlet for an EV charger?
You cannot safely use your existing dryer outlet for an EV charger. While both may use similar 240V connections, they ha...
Why does my dimmer switch get hot?
Dimmer switches generate heat during normal operation, but excessive heat indicates a problem that needs immediate atten...
Do smart switches work without a neutral wire?
Most modern smart switches require a neutral wire to function properly, but there are specific solutions for homes witho...
What does it cost to run electricity to a detached garage in Ottawa?
Running electricity to a detached garage in Ottawa typically costs $2,500 to $6,000, depending on the distance, electric...
How do I add power to my shed in the backyard?
Adding power to your backyard shed requires running a new electrical circuit from your main panel, which needs an ESA pe...
Can I install under-cabinet lighting myself?
Installing under-cabinet lighting yourself depends on the type you choose and your electrical skills, but most installat...
Why do my outlets have only 2 prongs instead of 3?
Your outlets have only 2 prongs because they're older, ungrounded outlets that lack the safety ground wire connection. T...
Is it worth upgrading from 100 amp to 200 amp service?
Upgrading from 100A to 200A service is often worth it for most Ottawa homes, especially if you're planning to add an EV...
How do I know if my house wiring is up to code?
Your house wiring may not be up to current Ontario Electrical Safety Code standards, especially if it's over 20 years ol...
What's the difference between 100 amp and 200 amp service?
The main difference between 100 amp and 200 amp electrical service is the total amount of power your home can use simult...
Can I install a Tesla Wall Connector myself to save money?
No, you cannot legally install a Tesla Wall Connector yourself in Ontario. EV charger installation requires an ESA-licen...
Why do my LED lights buzz when dimmed?
LED lights buzz when dimmed because of incompatibility between the LED driver and your dimmer switch, causing electrical...
How much does it cost to move an electrical panel?
Moving an electrical panel in Ottawa typically costs $2,500 to $5,000, depending on the distance moved and complexity of...
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