When you are resetting circuit breakers or changing fuses too often When your lights are flickering or dimming for no reason When you smell something electrical burning When you run out of receptacles and are using power bars and extension cords When you don’t have the right receptacle for a plug When you need new lighting or outlets or need to move lighting or wiring

The size of panel you need depends on the square footage of your home or business and the number of electrical devices you currently have and may need in the future. Many homes and buildings need larger panels to accommodate air conditioners, hot tubs, pools, appliances, car charging stations, generators, and more.

A GFI, or ground fault circuit interrupter, is a type of outlet that protects you against electrical shocks, fire, and/or electrocution. It works by monitoring the flow of current and cutting the power if it detects a fault. You need a GFI-protected outlet in the following situations: Any outlet that is within 1.5 metres (5 feet) of a sink or source of water All kitchen outlets that will be used from the countertop area At least one outlet in each bathroom All outdoor outlets Any outlets in areas where electricity and water may come in contact, such as basements, pools, spas, utility rooms, and outdoors

According to code, all rooms in your house (e.g., kitchen, family room, dining room, living room, den, bedroom, etc.) need enough receptacle outlets so that at no point are you more than 2.4 metres (8 feet) from an outlet in that space. The goal is to avoid using extension cords.

An AFCI, or arc fault circuit interrupter, shuts down power in a circuit when it detects electrical arcing. Common causes of causes of arcing include faulty and frayed lamp and appliance cords, faulty or overheated extension cords, and loose connections in outlets, switches, and light fixtures. Faulty wiring is a common cause of fires in homes. ESA requires that any newly installed wiring uses AFCI breakers.