Ongoing Maintenance Tips

These maintenance items are designed to save you time and money.

What does it mean if my fluorescent lights are flickering or cycling on and off?

Flickering may indicate impending bulb failure, minor power fluctuation, and/or improperly installed bulbs. Cycling on and off is usually a clear indication of ballast and/or bulb failure. It is recommended when replacing a ballast to replace bulbs as well.

If I have surge/lightning protection on my main service, should I use point-of-use surge plug-ins at my TV, stereo, computer, etc.?

Yes. Main line surge is no absolute guarantee. Any additional surge protection downstream in the system offers a greater level of protection, though nothing is absolute when it comes to the force of Nature!

I have a new home. Who should I call if I have a problem with TV or telephone wiring within the house?

With deregulation of the utility companies in most areas of the country, the cable or telephone companies are no longer responsible for the equipment or wiring in your home. This responsibility now falls to you (and your electrical contractor).

If a problem arises, contact your electrical contractor. Most TV and telephone utilities will still service within your home for a substantial fee. This service is no longer free as it often was in the past.

I have two telephone lines in my home. When I'm on the phone and the other phone line is in use, why do I hear the other conversation in the background?

This is commonly called "bleed over" and usually results from one of three conditions:
1) Excessively long runs of wire within the home of non-twisted pairs.
2) Loop wiring from phone station to phone station.
3) A nick in the phone wire somewhere within your residence causing a weak interconnect between phone lines.

Phone wiring installation today should be done as a "home run" system, each phone station being a dedicated run back to a common terminal block. If you have a problem with your phone wiring within your home, it is the responsibility of the electrician, rather than the phone company.

When my air conditioner cycles on, I notice my lights blink. Is this normal?

Yes. This is a common occurrence when large motor/compressor loads start. These devices cause a minor momentary voltage drop, demonstrating itself by the blinking of your lights. This has no negative effect on the electrical equipment within your house.

ATTENTION! Please be careful when performing any electrical repairs or installation. As you know, electricity is powerful and can be very dangerous. This material is only for informational purposes and is not instructional. Please consult a professional as appropriate.