Absolute Electric, INC

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Tamper Resistant Receptacles, (Plug outlets) Vancouver, Washington

Each year, approximately 2,400 children suffer sever shock and burns when they stick items into the slots of electrical receptacles. It is estimated that there are 6 to 12 child fatalities a year related to this.

What are tamper resistant receptacles and what is the new requirement?

The 2008 National Electrical Code requires residential dwellings including homes and apartment to have tamper resistant (TR) receptacles. These receptacles have spring-loaded shutters that close off the contact openings, or slots of the receptacles. When a plug is inserted into the receptacle, both springs are compressed and the shutters then open, allowing for the metal prongs to make contact to create an electrical circuit. Because both springs must be compressed at the same time, the shutters do not open when a child attempts to insert an object into only one contact opening, and there is not contact with electricity. Tamper resistant receptacles are an important next step to making the home a safer place for children.

Note: Even if you do not have children living in the home, any new receptacles added after December 31st has to have the tamper resistant receptacles installed. Receptacle caps do not met the code since they can be removed, lost and not replaced once the receptacle is not in use.

Any questions on tamper resistant receptacles please call 1-360-883-3873

Holiday Electrical Safety Tips for Vancouver Washington

Absolute Electric, INC. wants to remind you to keep these safety tips in mind as your Christmas lights go up:

• Anything that is installed outdoors that needs power must be GFCI protection via a cord, plug outlet or breaker.
• Install bubble covers on outdoor plug outlets to keep water from reaching the plug outlet.
• Do not overload plug outlets with lots of cords and lights. Doing so can cause the plug outlet to overheat and possibly case a fire.
• When using ladders to install lights. ALWAYS LOOK UP FIRST. Make sure no power lines are over head of you.
• When using ladders make sure your on stable ground and do not stand on the very top.
• Do not plug in lights or lighted decorations while doing the set-up. Not only can you get shocked but also risk falling off a ladder.
• Keep extension cords to a minimum. Keep the cords out of the walkways so people will not trip over them.
• Only use outdoor rated lights when outdoors. (See all the time indoor lighting used in outdoor applications).
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Use the proper in-line fuses. Over sizing the fuses will cause the wiring to over heat and cause fire.

The holidays are a fun time to enjoy friends and family. Keep it safe so all can enjoy all the hard work setting up the “Chevy Chase” Christmas show of the neighborhood.

If you are in doubt of what you’re doing is safe or correct, don’t hesitate to call us. There is never a bad question when it comes to your family and home safety. Our number is 1-360-883-3873.

What is ARC FAULT PROTECTION for a home owner in Vancouver Washington?

Answer: An AFCI is a special breaker intended to provide fire protection caused by arcing faults (small sparks) by recognizing characteristics unique to arcing and by functioning to De-energize the circuit when an arc fault is detected. An AFCI recognizes the “signature waveform” of an arcing fault and shuts the power off to the circuit to protect against fire. AFCIs have been required in all new home bedrooms effective January 1, 2002. However; if you have an older home than 2002 you can still benefit greatly with AFCI protection. (Even more than the newer homes). Absolute Electric, Inc. can install these 365 days a year fire and safety protection breakers in your home today.