A typical desktop computer uses about 65 to 250 watts of power. On a 120-volt circuit (common in the U.S.), this translates to approximately 0.54 to 2.08 amps. For gaming PCs or workstations with high-end graphics cards, multiple hard drives, and other power-hungry components, the power usage can easily reach 500 to 800 watts or more. This would mean about 4.17 to 6.67 amps on a 120-volt circuit. Still, a PC is a low-voltage device, no matter how powerful. Laptops are generally more energy-efficient than desktops, with most using between 15 to 60 watts, translating to about 0.125 to 0.5 amps o ..read more

12 vs. 14 Gauge Wire Compared 12 AWG and 14 AWG are the most popular cable sizes in residential buildings in the United States, but there is often confusion on which ones are best to use. Let's compare 12 and 14-gauge wires based on the most essential factors. Thickness 12-gauge wire is usually 2.05 mm thick, while 14-gauge wire has the thickness of 1.63 mm. In the non-metric system, the diameter is 0.0808 inches for 12-gauge wire and 0.0641 inches for 12-gauge wire. 12 AWG is a thicker wire. Current carrying capacity Copper 12-gauge wire is safe for circuits carrying up to 20 amps (including ..read more

Low-power hair dryer models draw around 800 to 1200 watts, using about 6.7 to 10 amps on a 120-volt circuit (common in the United States). High-power or professional grade hair dryer models can use anywhere between 1800 to 2400 watts, translating to 15 to 20 amps on a 120-volt circuit. For illustration, a popular model of hair dryer, Dyson, draws 13.3 Amps or 1600 watts. Low-power hair dryers are used on 15 amp circuits, while more sophisticated models are better suited for 20 amp circuits. Does the hair dryer need a dedicated circuit? Hair dryer is not a device required by NEC to have a de ..read more

The approximate amperage of a space heater using a 120-volt amperage system: 500-Watt Space Heater: 4.17 amps 800-Watt Space Heater: 6.67 amps 1000-Watt Space Heater: 8.33 amps 1500-Watt Space Heater: 12.5 amps Should I use a space heater on a 15-amp or 20-amp circuit? Article 210.23(A)(1) and (2) of the National Electrical Code requires continuous load on a circuit to not exceed 80% of the circuit's rating.  A 15-amp circuit is generally sufficient for space heaters up to 1,440 watts, considering the 80% rule for continuous load (1,440 watts at 120 volts equals 12 amps). However, you ..read more

Two-way light switches are a practical solution for controlling a light from two locations. This detailed guide includes preparation, wire identification, wiring methods, and finalization steps to ensure a safe and successful installation. Wiring a Two-Way Double Light Switch Step by Step 1. Ensure safety Always start by turning off the power at the consumer unit (fuse box) to prevent electrical accidents. Use a voltage tester to ensure the power is off in the area you'll be working on. 2. Gather tools and materials You’ll need: Two two-way light switches Screwdriver Wire strippers Electrica ..read more

This is a quick and easy guide on how to wire your toggle switch. What is a toggle switch? A toggle switch is a type of electrical switch that has a leveler/ handler that is "toggled" back and forth to open or close an electrical circuit. This is a very simple switch that works in many applications, from household lights to headlights in a car. The primary function of a toggle switch involves flipping the lever in one direction to turn on the device and moving it in the opposite direction to turn it off. Toggle switches are commonly used as light switches in homes and buildings. In vehicles a ..read more

Garbage disposals are connected in two ways: hardwired directly into a dedicated circuit, or wired with appliance cords plugged into wall outlets. If the garbage disposal is hardwired, it is connected to a switch in an electrical box. Exposed wiring in the sink cabinet should be protected by conduit, even if it is NM-B Romex rarely out in conduit in other situations. If the disposal uses a plug-in mechanism, it plugs into an outlet located in a sink cabinet controlled by a wall switch. In many cases, this outlet is wired as a switch receptacle, with one-half of the outlet controlled by a switc ..read more

AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) and GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) are two types of breakers. The key difference between the two is that AFCI protects from fire, and GFCI protects from electric shock. Let's look into the characteristics and applications of AFCI and GFCI. AFCI, or arc-fault circuit interrupter, is the circuit breaker that breaks the circuit upon detecting loose connections in the wiring. They are designed to protect against fires by detecting an unintended electrical arc in a circuit and interrupting the power to prevent ignition. Loose connections are a common re ..read more

Depending on the load distribution, an alternating power supply can be categorized into single-phase and three-phase. The main difference is that single-phase power is used for low electric requirenments, and three-phase power is for heavy loads, usually in industrial settings. Single-phase systems can be derived from three-phase systems using a transformer or VFD in the US or directly in the EU. What is single-phase power? Single-phase power uses a single alternating current (AC), meaning electricity flows through only one conductor. It's the standard for residential and small commercial buil ..read more

 Monocrystalline and polycrystalline are the two most commonly available solar panels. Read this blog to find out which will likely work best for you. Monocrystalline solar panels are made from a single, continuous crystal structure of silicon, which gives them a uniform, dark appearance and makes them more efficient but generally more expensive. Polycrystalline solar panels are made from multiple silicon crystals melted together, resulting in a blue, speckled look, and are less efficient but cheaper than monocrystalline panels. Here is the comparison of monocrystalline vs polycrystalli ..read more