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Electrical Wiring in the Home/Expert Profile
Expertise
I can answer any questions about residential electrical wiring and most questions about commercial wiring. In my own business, I insist on using best practices in all work we do (which to me means "to Code" or BETTER, using the most recommended ways to do things).
Experience in the area
I'm 65, but learned wiring basics as a teenager. I only used this knowledge for myself, friends and family until early 2002, when economic downturns suddenly made my 30 years in IT irrelevant. Through the Internet, I bought many books on wiring and electrical code and switched careers, becoming an unlicensed electrical contractor, carpenter, and handyman. I now know, after 7 years in the industry, everything I need to get a California C-10 License except some of the Industrial wiring stuff (which I'll probably never use, but need to pass the test). The main reason I haven't yet obtained the License is lack of funds to pay for it and the required insurance. Eventually, I'll get it.
Education/Credentials
* BS in Physics and Mathematics from Oregon State University, 1967 * Primarily self-taught from books written for electrical and construction pros, but also informal training from more experienced pros
Past/Present Clients
homeowners and small businesses in the San Francisco Bay Area, mainly on the S.F. Peninsula
Average Ratings
Recent Reviews from Users
K = Knowledgeability C = Clarity of Response T = Timeliness P = Politeness| User | Date | K | C | T | P | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kevin | 11/19/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | |
| Hai | 11/13/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Mr Bruce had given me very clear ..... |
| Terry | 11/12/09 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Bruce took the time, despite health problems ..... |
| Steve | 11/04/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | |
| j | 11/03/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
Recent Answers from Bruce Grant
2009-11-17 wire size calculation:
Voltage drop is the limiting factor, with 5% maximum drop being the rule of thumb (5% of 120V is 6V), although I recommend 4% or less. In your case, it will also depend on the conditions: (a) ideal:
2009-11-16 Fan w/light fixture wiring:
David, I can only assume that the light is a CFL or other type of fluorescent light. There is almost always a slight delay when these are turned on (and often an additional delay until the reach full
2009-11-15 reduce 240v to 110v:
JD, I assume (correct me if I'm wrong) that you still need the 240V to power the pump, but also want to have 120V available there for other uses. This is easily doable. Please don't be offended,
2009-11-10 electrical wire ground:
Hai, I apologize for the delay in responding. We've suddenly had several family medical issues to deal with in the last few days, so I haven't been online. Relocating or upgrading a main box is the
2009-11-08 light dimmer:
Shawn, I apologize for the delay in responding. We've suddenly had several family medical issues to deal with in the last few days, so I haven't been online. It sounds like: (a) you have a wiring
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