Electrician FAQs

Welcome to our FAQ page where you'll find answers to many common questions. We hope you find this information helpful.

Q: What is an arc fault?

A: An ARC Fault is an unintended electrical discharge usually caused by exposed or punctured electrical wiring. Arcing can also result from improperly installed outlets and switches. The arcing current has the potential to create a fire. General Electric Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters can be installed that will effectively interrupt the flow of the electrical current in the event of arcing and eliminate the chance of fire.

Q: What causes electrical outages?

A: Power outages can result from a variety of causes. During periods of high electricity usage power generating facilities may not be able to keep up with the demand resulting in a temporary "black out" which is a complete interruption in transmission, or "brown out" in which there is a drop in the level of current transmitted. Other causes are more localized interruptions that can result from downed power lines or damage to local transmitters. To protect yourself from outages you should equip your home or place of business with a dependable backup generator.

Q: What areas do you serve?

A: We provide licensed electrical services in Riverside & San Diego Counties. Also servicing Orange and San Bernadino Counties.

Q: What can I do to protect my electronics from power surges?

A: Power surges present a serious threat to your electronic devices. Lightning strikes can cause immediate, severe damage to electronic devices; however, even low level surges will degrade and shorten the life of your electronics. In addition to localized surge protectors dedicated to individual devices, like computers \ and entertainment systems the most effective approach is to install a whole-home surge arrestor.

Q: Why aren't birds and squirrels electrocuted when they perch and walk on electrical power lines?

A: The simple answer is that they are only coming in contact with one line which does not allow the current to complete a circuit. If they simultaneously contacted two lines, or a single line and the ground, their bodies would serve as a bridge between differing voltage potentials and complete the circuit. In such case electrocution would occur.

Contact us with additional questions at 951.296.5835 or via email at apec@alexanderpacific.com