Archive for June, 2009

…And so it begins again…

June 24, 2009

The neck brace came off almost two weeks ago now, and I think I’m ready to get going again on this whole kitchen thing. I spent maybe fifteen minutes in the kitchen the other evening trying to get the big 50 amp outlet for the range wired up (apparently no small task). Well the position was a little awkward, and that big ol’ wire doesn’t bend very easily, and the next morning my neck and shoulders let me know that I need to take it easy at first. So I apologize ahead of time for the next couple of very “not very exciting” posts.

The lessons I posted last time about the GFI circuits? Well after writing that little list, I realized that I ran a couple three-wires in the kitchen for GFI circuits that’ll need to be re-run. Not too much work, and I should be thankful for something to work on that doesn’t require squatting or crawling around in the attic, but it’s just something that I thought was done and over. Lesson learned.

I hope to have something to talk about come next week, but don’t hold your breath. I know it’s almost not possible, but things are gonna be moving even slower than usual over the next several weeks. At least until I recover enough to put in a good days work.

Still Hampered…

June 8, 2009

So I go see the doc this week on Thursday.  Hopefully he gives me the OK to take the neck-brace off.  I’m still hurting a little, but it’s nothing compared to how it was a week or two ago.   I’m just hoping things keep getting better.  I did a little wiring this week.  Just stuff that I could reach without going into the attic.  Not much, but I did as much as I could before the shoulders started to hurt a little too much.  I’m gonna go on a different tack this week since I don’t have much to write about.  Here are a few lessons learned that I thought I’d pass on…

Wiring Tip #1...

Wiring Tip #1...

So first off.  There are two things in this picture that I’d like to point out.  First, when supplying power to exterior outlets and lights (lights with exterior switches).  You need to have them on a GFI circuit.  Don’t  try to save money/space with a three-wire instead of using two two-wires.  GFI circuits need a dedicated common (white) going back through the circuit (which you don’t have in a three wire).  Also, when installing an exterior box make sure you have enough clearance to put a cover on it.  And if you really want to put an outlet in a box like this -make sure you actually leave room for the outlet!

Electrical Tip #2

Wiring Tip #2

Pray that the inspector is understanding about existing wiring and doesn’t require staples at all the boxes, when the previous electrician cut off the wires a little short.

IMG_4483

Wiring Tip #3...

Wiring Tip #3...

Wiring Tip #3...

There is such a thing as too many wires in a box…