Electrical FAQ

Countertop receptacles need at least two dedicated 20A circuits, spaced no more than 4' apart, with one located within 2' of a counter edge or basin.

• Any receptacle within 5' of a sink must be GFCI-protected.
• Split receptacles show up less in newer homes but follow the same spacing rules.

Forgetting to break the tab between the two brass (hot side) screws. Leave it in place and you've tied two live wires together — that's usually why the breaker trips hard and nobody can figure out why.

So that if something else plugged in trips a breaker, the fridge doesn't go down with it. Microwaves get their own circuit too, because of how much current they draw.

A GFCI-protected outlet is required, and any switch has to sit where it can't be reached by someone standing inside the tub or shower.

Under current code, arc-fault (AFCI) protection applies to most branch circuits in a home — these days it's less "do I need one" and more "where don't I." See the full breakdown with diagram for exactly which circuits need what.

Yes — rather than tracking exactly where they're required, the simplest and safest move is to use tamper-resistant receptacles throughout the home, especially with kids around.

So the light acts as a visual indicator — if the light's on, your alarm has power.

Usually loose connections, an overloaded circuit, a failing bulb, or voltage fluctuations. If it's happening across multiple rooms, it may point to a panel or service issue.

Breakers trip to prevent overheating. Common causes are an overloaded circuit, a short circuit, or a faulty appliance. Frequent tripping means the circuit needs a look.

Usually loose wiring or an overloaded circuit — this can be a fire hazard and should be checked right away.

Commonly a tripped GFCI, a loose connection, or a failed device. If several outlets fail together, the issue is likely in the circuit wiring itself.

Poor socket contact, excessive vibration, high voltage, or the wrong bulb type for the fixture are the usual culprits.

Generally yes, as long as the circuit is off and you're not altering the wiring. In Ontario, altering wiring itself requires a permit.

Often yes — but only if the electrical box is fan-rated. A lot of DIY fan installs fail because the box can't actually support the weight.

In Ontario, adding a new outlet requires an ESA permit. Replacing an existing outlet is usually fine without one.

Yes, for any new wiring or fixture additions. Replacing existing pot lights on existing wiring doesn't need one.

EV chargers need a dedicated circuit and often a panel upgrade. In Ontario, the install has to be done by a licensed electrical contractor.

A GFCI shuts off power during a ground fault to protect against shock. It's required in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, outdoors, and anywhere near water.

An AFCI protects against electrical arcing, a major cause of house fires. Modern code requires it in most living areas.

Use the correct breakers, avoid overloaded circuits, replace damaged cords, and keep wiring up to code. Warm outlets or buzzing switches are early warning signs.

Turn off the breaker right away and call a licensed electrician — that smell means overheating or arcing.

A non-contact voltage tester — cheap, and essential for doing any DIY work safely.

Frequent breaker trips, no available spaces left, flickering lights, or adding high-draw equipment like an EV charger, hot tub, or heat pump are all signs.

Most homes today need 200A service to comfortably support modern appliances, EV chargers, and HVAC systems.

They're outdated and often overloaded. They can be safe if well maintained, but most homeowners upgrade to a breaker panel for safety and insurance reasons.

Knob-and-tube, aluminum wiring, or brittle insulation are common hazards, and typically call for inspection and often replacement.

In Ontario, homeowners can run wiring themselves only with an ESA permit, and it has to be inspected before drywall goes up.

Warm spots, burning smells, frequent breaker trips, or discolored outlets all point to a hidden wiring problem.

Lightning, utility grid switching, or large appliances turning on. A whole-home surge protector is a solid safeguard.

Common causes are a failing appliance, electric heaters, a sump pump running constantly, or poor insulation.

Call a licensed electrician when:

• Wiring needs to be added or altered
• Breakers trip repeatedly
• Outlets are warm or buzzing
• You smell burning
• You're installing high-draw equipment
• You're unsure about ESA permit requirements