More power needed each year

Modern electrical systems give us access to plenty of safe, dependable power. Around the turn of the century, it was a big deal to have a 60-amp service. Now, 200-amp services are common in many houses, and some larger homes are even getting 400 amps of power. We are dependent on electricity for our safety and well-being. One purpose of this book is to help you put it to the best use possible in your home. Any electrical system can be improved and adapted to your individual needs and specifications:

• A larger service of greater amperage can be installed.
• New circuits can be added.
• Existing circuits sometimes can be extended.

Although circuit breakers are the standard equipment for circuit protection in your home, fuses are still used in many other applications. Fuses with ratings as high as 10,000 amps and 136,000 volts are used in marine, automotive, telecommunications, and computer applications.Fuses provide circuit protection in motors, transformers, and an array of delicate electronic equipment.

• Lights can be added anywhere there is a need for them.
• Additional wiring can facilitate modern contrivances from garage door openers to barbecue rotisseries.

As you read on, you’ll learn how to perform these electrical chores by yourself or how
to evaluate your needs and discuss them intelligently with an electrician. Either way,
you’ll have power at your fingertips throughout your home.