A tripped circuit breaker is a common household issue that can cause sudden power loss to parts of your home. While it’s a simple fix, handling it safely is crucial to prevent electrical hazards. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the proper steps to reset a tripped breaker and discuss when it’s time to call a professional electrician.

What Causes a Circuit Breaker to Trip?

Circuit breakers are designed to protect your home from electrical overloads and short circuits. Here are some common reasons why a breaker might trip:

• Overloaded Circuit: Too many appliances running on the same circuit can cause an overload.

• Short Circuit: A hot wire touches a neutral or ground wire, creating a dangerous situation.

• Ground Fault: Occurs when electricity takes an unintended path to the ground, often due to damaged wiring.

Step-by-Step Guide to Reset a Tripped Circuit Breaker

1. Identify the Tripped Breaker

• Locate your electrical panel, typically found in a garage, basement, or utility room.

• Look for the breaker that is in the “OFF” position or positioned between “ON” and “OFF.”

2. Turn Off Appliances and Devices

• Before resetting the breaker, unplug or turn off any devices that were running on the circuit to prevent another overload.

3. Reset the Breaker

• Firmly switch the breaker to the “OFF” position first.

• Then, switch it back to “ON” until it clicks into place.

4. Test the Circuit

• Plug in your devices and check if power is restored.

• If the breaker trips again immediately, there may be a deeper electrical issue.

When to Call an Electrician

If your circuit breaker continues to trip repeatedly or you notice signs of burning, buzzing sounds, or a burning smell from the panel, it’s time to call a licensed electrician. These could indicate wiring issues, a faulty breaker, or a serious electrical problem that requires professional attention.

Final Thoughts

Resetting a tripped breaker is a simple task, but safety should always come first. If you experience frequent tripping, consider redistributing your electrical load or upgrading your circuit breaker panel. When in doubt, always consult a professional to keep your home’s electrical system safe and functional.

Dodd Electric is a licensed and bonded electrician providing service  in Spring Hill, Tampa and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website at https://doddelectric.net/

or call (813) 382-0787.

How Backup Generators Can Keep Your Home Running During Outages

Power outages can happen anytime, whether due to severe weather, equipment failures, or unforeseen grid disruptions. When the electricity goes out, essential appliances, heating and cooling systems, and even home security systems can be rendered useless. That’s where backup generators come in, ensuring your home remains powered and functional during an outage. Here’s how backup generators can be a game-changer for homeowners.

1. Continuous Power Supply

A backup generator automatically restores power within seconds of an outage. Whether you have a standby generator wired into your home’s electrical system or a portable unit, these devices ensure that you don’t have to suffer in the dark.

2. Protection for Essential Appliances

A power outage can lead to food spoilage in refrigerators, frozen pipes in winter, and even sump pump failure, which can result in flooding. A backup generator keeps critical appliances running, preventing costly damage and inconvenience.

3. Ensuring Home Security

Many home security systems rely on electricity. When the power goes out, surveillance cameras, alarms, and smart locks may stop working. A backup generator ensures your security system remains active, keeping your home and family protected.

4. Comfort During Extreme Weather

During a summer outage, air conditioning systems stop working, making indoor temperatures unbearable. In winter, a lack of power can mean no heating, which could be dangerous. Backup generators ensure that HVAC systems keep running, maintaining a comfortable indoor environment.

5. Keeping Medical Equipment Operational

For individuals who rely on electrically powered medical devices, a power outage can be life-threatening. A backup generator provides peace of mind by ensuring continuous operation of essential medical equipment, such as oxygen machines and CPAP devices.

6. Preventing Business Disruptions

With more people working from home, an outage can mean missed deadlines, lost work, and disrupted video meetings. A backup generator keeps your home office functional, preventing work-related interruptions.

7. Types of Backup Generators

There are two main types of backup generators:

• Portable Generators – These are manually operated, fuel-powered units that can run essential appliances.
• Standby Generators – These are permanently installed, automatically activating during an outage and running on natural gas or propane.

8. Choosing the Right Backup Generator

When selecting a backup generator, consider:

• Power Needs: Determine which appliances and systems you need to keep running.
• Fuel Type: Common options include gasoline, propane, natural gas, and diesel.
• Automatic vs. Manual: Standby generators turn on automatically, while portable generators require manual setup.

Final Thoughts

A backup generator is an investment in safety, convenience, and peace of mind. Whether you experience frequent outages or just want to be prepared for emergencies, having a reliable backup power source can make all the difference. To ensure proper installation and operation, consult a licensed electrician to help choose and set up the right generator for your home.

If you’re considering installing a backup generator, contact a professional electrician to discuss the best options for your needs!

Dodd Electric is a licensed and bonded electrician providing service  in Spring Hill, Tampa and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website at https://doddelectric.net/

or call (813) 382-0787.

Why You Should Never DIY Electrical Work: The Risks Explained

DIY projects can be a rewarding way to save money and improve your skills, but when it comes to electrical work, taking the DIY route can be incredibly dangerous. Electricity is not something to be taken lightly; improper handling can result in serious consequences for you, your property, and even others. Here, we’ll explore the risks of DIY electrical work and why it’s always best to leave it to the professionals.

1. Risk of Electric Shock

Electricity is powerful and unpredictable, especially if you lack the proper knowledge and tools. Attempting electrical repairs or installations without understanding the correct safety procedures puts you at risk of electric shock, which can result in severe injuries or even death. Professional electricians are trained to work with electricity safely, minimizing these dangers.

2. Fire Hazards

Faulty wiring is one of the leading causes of house fires. DIY electrical work often leads to improper connections, overloaded circuits, or poorly installed wiring, all of which can ignite a fire. Licensed electricians follow strict safety codes and standards to ensure your home’s electrical system is safe and reliable.

3. Code Violations

Electrical work must comply with local building codes and regulations to ensure safety. Without proper training, you may unknowingly violate these codes, leading to hefty fines, failed inspections, or difficulties selling your home in the future. Professional electricians are familiar with these codes and ensure all work meets legal requirements.

4. Costly Mistakes

While DIY electrical work may seem like a money-saving option, mistakes can be costly to fix. A botched job could result in damaged appliances, extensive repairs, or even the need for a complete rewiring. Hiring a professional from the start can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

5. Lack of Proper Tools and Expertise

Professional electricians have the tools and expertise to diagnose and repair electrical issues accurately. Most homeowners don’t have access to specialized equipment like voltage testers, wire strippers, or thermal imaging cameras, nor do they have the experience to use them effectively. This gap in knowledge and resources can lead to dangerous mistakes.

6. Potential for Injury to Others

Improper electrical work doesn’t just put you at risk—it can endanger your family, neighbors, or future occupants of your home. Faulty wiring or incorrectly installed components can cause accidents long after the work is done.

7. Insurance Issues

Many insurance policies require electrical work to be completed by a licensed professional. If a fire or other damage occurs due to DIY electrical work, your insurance claim could be denied, leaving you responsible for all repair costs.

8. Peace of Mind

When you hire a professional electrician, you’re not just paying for their time and labor; you’re investing in peace of mind. Knowing that the work has been done safely and correctly ensures the long-term safety of your home and loved ones.

Conclusion

While tackling DIY projects can be fun and cost-effective, electrical work is an area where cutting corners is not worth the risk. The potential dangers of electric shock, fires, code violations, and costly mistakes far outweigh any savings. Protect yourself, your family, and your home by hiring a licensed electrician for all your electrical needs. It’s a decision that ensures safety, compliance, and lasting quality.

Dodd Electric is a licensed and bonded electrician providing service  in Spring Hill, Tampa and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website at https://doddelectric.net/

or call (813) 382-0787.

When it comes to managing multiple electronic devices in your home or office, surge protectors and power strips are popular solutions. While these two items often look similar, they serve very different purposes. Understanding the distinction is crucial to ensuring the safety of your devices and your property. Let’s explore the key differences between surge protectors and power strips, and why one might be a better choice depending on your needs.

What is a Power Strip?

A power strip is a device that provides multiple outlets from a single wall socket. It’s essentially an extension cord with several outlets, allowing you to plug in multiple devices at once. Power strips are great for convenience and are commonly used in areas with limited outlets, such as:

• Home offices
• Entertainment centers
• Workshops

However, a power strip does not offer protection against electrical surges. If there is a spike in voltage—caused by events like lightning strikes or power outages—the devices connected to a power strip could be damaged.

What is a Surge Protector?

A surge protector, on the other hand, is designed to protect your devices from voltage spikes. It not only provides multiple outlets but also includes built-in components that divert excess voltage away from your electronics, keeping them safe. This makes surge protectors essential for safeguarding sensitive equipment such as:

• Computers
• TVs and home theater systems
• Gaming consoles
• Appliances with microprocessors

Surge protectors are especially important in areas prone to lightning storms or unstable power grids.

Key Differences Between Surge Protectors and Power Strips

Feature	Power Strip	Surge Protector
Primary Function	Provides additional outlets	Protects devices from power surges
Voltage Protection	None	Yes
Best For	Low-risk, general use	High-value or sensitive electronics
Indicator Light	Often none	Usually has a light to indicate protection is active
Cost	Generally inexpensive	Slightly more expensive

When to Use a Power Strip

If you need a simple and inexpensive way to plug in multiple low-risk devices, such as lamps or fans, a power strip is a suitable option. However, keep in mind that it offers no protection from electrical surges, so it should not be used for high-value electronics.

When to Use a Surge Protector

If you’re plugging in devices that are expensive or contain sensitive components, a surge protector is the better choice. It’s a small investment that can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars in replacement costs for damaged equipment.

Tips for Choosing the Right Surge Protector

1. Check the Joule Rating: This indicates how much energy the surge protector can absorb before failing. A higher joule rating offers better protection.
2. Look for UL Certification: Ensure the device meets safety standards set by Underwriters Laboratories.
3. Consider the Number of Outlets: Choose a surge protector with enough outlets to meet your needs.
4. Verify the Warranty: Some surge protectors offer warranties that cover connected equipment in case of failure.

Final Thoughts

While power strips and surge protectors may look alike, their functions are vastly different. A power strip is ideal for general use, but a surge protector is essential for safeguarding valuable electronics. Knowing the difference ensures you make the right choice to protect your devices and maintain peace of mind.

Dodd Electric is a licensed and bonded electrician providing service  in Spring Hill, Tampa and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website at https://doddelectric.net/

or call (813) 382-0787.

As parents, keeping your children safe is always a top priority, and your home’s electrical system is one area that requires extra attention. Electrical outlets, cords, and appliances can pose serious risks to curious little ones. Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take to childproof your home and ensure peace of mind. Here’s a comprehensive guide to safeguarding your family from electrical hazards.

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Why Childproofing Your Home’s Electrical System Is Important

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), thousands of children are treated for electrical injuries each year. Many of these injuries can be prevented with proper childproofing measures. Children are naturally curious, and outlets, cords, and plugs are often at eye level, making them an easy target for exploration.

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Essential Steps to Childproof Your Home

1. Install Tamper-Resistant Receptacles (TRRs)

Tamper-resistant receptacles are a must-have for any home with children. These outlets have built-in shutters that prevent objects from being inserted into the slots unless a plug is properly inserted.

• Why it works: TRRs provide a permanent solution compared to outlet plugs, which can be easily removed by children.

2. Use Outlet Covers or Caps

Plastic outlet covers are an affordable and easy way to block access to unused outlets.

• Pro tip: Choose sliding outlet covers for a more secure and convenient option, as they automatically cover the slots when not in use.

3. Secure Electrical Cords

Loose electrical cords are not only tripping hazards but can also tempt children to tug, chew, or pull them.

• What to do:
  • Use cord shorteners to keep excess lengths out of reach.
  • Run cords along walls and secure them with clips or covers.
  • Invest in cord protectors to prevent chewing.

4. Relocate and Anchor Heavy Appliances

Appliances like lamps, TVs, and small kitchen devices often have accessible cords.

• Safety tips:
  • Anchor TVs and heavy appliances to the wall to prevent tipping.
  • Keep appliances and their cords out of reach, especially in areas like kitchens and living rooms.

5. Block Access to Power Strips and Surge Protectors

Power strips and surge protectors are common hazards for kids due to their multiple outlets.

• Solution: Use power strip covers to enclose them, making it difficult for children to access.

6. Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)

GFCIs are designed to cut power instantly in case of a ground fault, reducing the risk of shock or electrocution.

• Where to install: Bathrooms, kitchens, and any area where water is present.

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Additional Safety Tips

• Educate Your Kids: Teach children from an early age that electrical outlets, cords, and appliances are not toys.
• Supervise Play Areas: Ensure outlets and cords are not accessible in playrooms or bedrooms.
• Upgrade Your Electrical System: If your home is older, consider hiring an electrician to inspect and upgrade the wiring to modern safety standards.

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When to Call a Professional Electrician

Some childproofing tasks, such as installing GFCIs or upgrading outlets to tamper-resistant ones, may require professional expertise. An electrician can help ensure these upgrades are done safely and efficiently.

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Conclusion

Childproofing your home’s electrical outlets and wiring is an essential step in creating a safe environment for your little ones. By investing time and resources into these protective measures, you can reduce the risk of electrical injuries and give yourself peace of mind.

If you’re unsure about any aspect of childproofing or need assistance with electrical upgrades, don’t hesitate to contact a licensed electrician. Your child’s safety is worth every effort.

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Need help making your home safer? Reach out to our team of experienced electricians for a consultation today!

Dodd Electric is a licensed and bonded electrician providing service  in Spring Hill, Tampa and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website at https://doddelectric.net/

or call (813) 382-0787.

Pasco county is advising electrical contractors to review the NEMA water damaged electrical equipment list for what needs replacing after being flooded. It lists any equipment that was flooded with water to be replaced such as boxes, switches and outlets and wiring. Metal boxes should be changed to plastic. Electrical panels may be refurbished if the breakers are replaced. Salt water residue is very corrosive and conductive and can cause fires and electrocution.

After you have used your generator to power your house, and you  loose half the power to your house, it could be that you out your generator panel breakers in the “off” position of line. And of course, when you are using the generator, they should be switched to the “gen” position.

Dodd Electric has been in business since 2002. We are trying to help as many of the storm victims as possible.

Dodd Electric is a licensed and bonded electrician providing service  in Spring Hill, Tampa and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website at https://doddelectric.net/

or call (813) 382-0787.

As you know, hundreds of homes have been flooded, particularly in the coastal area. If you have had water in the interior of your home, you will need to remove the drywall as part of the drying out process. You are probably going to need electrical work also. You may have trouble locating an available electrician. We have time. If you have a friend or relative affected, give them our phone number.

According to the Clearwater city inspector, with 18 inches of floor water, all outlets need to be replaced. If you have 4 feet of water, you will need a permit, and will have to replace the wiring.

We have been working in Hudson Westshore, Palm Harbor and St Pete beaches. We have reasonable rated.

Dodd Electric is a licensed and bonded electrician providing service  in Spring Hill, Tampa and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website at https://doddelectric.net/

or call (813) 382-0787.

The circuit breaker panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system. It ensures that electricity flows safely through your home, protecting it from potential hazards like overloaded circuits and electrical fires. Yet, many homeowners rarely give their breaker panel a second thought—until something goes wrong. Understanding how your circuit breaker panel works and knowing when it might need an upgrade can help you keep your home safe and your electrical system functioning properly.

What Is a Circuit Breaker Panel?

The circuit breaker panel, also known as a breaker box, fuse box, or electrical panel, distributes electricity from the main power line to the various circuits throughout your home. Each circuit in the panel is designed to provide power to a specific area or appliance, such as your kitchen, lighting, or air conditioning.

Inside the panel, you’ll find switches or “breakers” that control the flow of electricity to each circuit. These breakers are safety devices that will automatically trip and shut off electricity if too much current flows through the circuit. This helps prevent overloading, overheating, and the risk of fire.

How Does a Circuit Breaker Panel Work?

The basic process is relatively simple:

1. Power Supply: Electricity flows from the utility company into your home through a large main cable. This cable connects to the circuit breaker panel.
2. Distribution: Inside the panel, the main breaker controls the entire power supply for your home. Beneath it, individual breakers control smaller circuits, which route electricity to various rooms or devices in your home.
3. Protection: If a circuit becomes overloaded—meaning it’s drawing more electricity than it can safely handle—the corresponding breaker will trip. This cuts off the electricity to that circuit, protecting your home from potential electrical fires or damage.

Each breaker can be manually reset after it trips, but consistent tripping is often a sign of an underlying issue, such as faulty wiring or an overloaded system.

When Should You Upgrade Your Circuit Breaker Panel?

While circuit breaker panels are designed to last for years, there are situations where an upgrade becomes necessary. Here are a few signs it might be time to call an electrician to evaluate your panel:

1. Your Home Still Uses a Fuse Box

Older homes (built before the 1960s) may still have a fuse box instead of a modern circuit breaker panel. Fuses work similarly to breakers but are less convenient and not as safe. When a fuse blows, you must replace it, which can be both inconvenient and costly. Upgrading to a breaker panel offers better safety and modern functionality.

2. Frequent Breaker Trips

If you notice that your breakers are constantly tripping, this could be a sign that your electrical panel is struggling to handle your home’s energy demands. This is especially common if you’ve recently added new appliances or high-power devices like air conditioners or electric heaters.

3. Your Panel is Over 20-30 Years Old

Most circuit breaker panels are designed to last 20-30 years. After that, they may not be able to handle the electrical demands of modern appliances. If your home is older and the panel hasn’t been replaced, it might be time for an upgrade to ensure it can handle current electricity needs.

4. Your Home Has Undergone Major Renovations

If you’ve added a new room, upgraded your kitchen, or installed new high-energy appliances, your current electrical panel might not be sufficient to handle the extra load. An upgrade will ensure your home’s electrical system runs smoothly without the risk of overloading.

5. You Notice Dimming Lights or Power Outages

Dimming lights, flickering, or intermittent power outages can indicate that your circuit breaker panel is overburdened. This can be especially dangerous if left unchecked, as it may signal a problem with your electrical wiring.

6. Burning Smell or Scorch Marks

A burning smell near your circuit breaker panel or scorch marks around breakers are red flags. These indicate overheating, which can lead to electrical fires. Immediate attention from a professional electrician is critical in these cases.

Benefits of Upgrading Your Circuit Breaker Panel

Upgrading your circuit breaker panel can improve your home’s safety and efficiency. Here are some advantages:

• Increased Electrical Capacity: A new panel can handle more circuits, allowing you to run multiple appliances and devices without worrying about overloading the system.
• Enhanced Safety Features: Modern breaker panels include advanced safety features like arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) and ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), which provide better protection against electrical hazards.
• Higher Home Value: An upgraded electrical system can increase your home’s value, making it a desirable feature for potential buyers.
• Better Energy Efficiency: New panels can improve your home’s energy efficiency, leading to lower utility bills and a smaller environmental footprint.

Conclusion

Understanding your circuit breaker panel is essential for maintaining the safety and functionality of your home’s electrical system. If you’re experiencing frequent trips, noticing signs of wear, or living in an older home, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Hiring a professional electrician to inspect your panel ensures that your home is up to code and equipped to meet your energy needs safely.

By keeping your electrical system up to date, you can protect your home, improve energy efficiency, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home’s power is in good hands.

Dodd Electric is a licensed and bonded electrician providing service  in Spring Hill, Tampa and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website at https://doddelectric.net/

or call (813) 382-0787.

It’s hurricane season. Ever thought about how nice it would be to have a backup generator to power some of the circuits in your house? To do this, you are going to need a portable generator breaker.

Below is a  photo of a  generator panel we installed with an 80A breaker as supplied by a portable generator.

We gave instructions to the homeowner how to start and stop the generator.

1. Turn off the main breaker supplied by the utility company.
2. Plug in the cord from the generator to the connection outlet on the wall.
3. Turn the generator panel switch containing A/C, water heater, fridge and master suite breakers, from the utility position to the generator position.
4. Start the generator and turn the power switch on the generator to on.
5. You should now have power to the circuits that are in the generator panel.
6. When utility power comes back on, turn the generator off, disconnect its cord at both ends, turn the generator panel switch from generator to utility, and turn the main breaker from the utility back on.
7. You will then be back on utility power.

The customer was very happy with the results and also that we did this installation for a third the price that the generator company installer had quoted him.

Dodd Electric is a licensed and bonded electrician providing service  in Spring Hill, Tampa and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website at https://doddelectric.net/

or call (813) 382-0787.

 

Dodd Electric can and has done a hundred times or more – checked a home or business’s power usage.

To do this we look at your highest electric bill from the previous twelve months and look at the peak power usage kwh (kilowatt hours) and divide by 240v to see how close you are using to your 200 Amp main breaker. Whether you have 100A or 125A or 150A or 200A you should never use anywhere near the required maximum of 80%. We also can check the ampacity used using a meter when your using your large power users such as your air conditioning, oven, dryer, and hot water heater, such as  at Thanksgiving when your cooking a turkey and have a house full of relatives. This is not the time to have a power overload shutting off your oven or whole house.

For a piece of mind call Dodd Electric  for a power survey.

Dodd Electric is a licensed and bonded electrician providing service  in Spring Hill, Tampa and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website at https://doddelectric.net/

or call (813) 382-0787.