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Version: 2011.07.01

Electrical System

Make sure that you know the location of the main electrical box, usually located in the garage; it includes a main shut-off that controls all the electrical power to the home. Individual breakers control the separate circuits. Each breaker is marked to help you identify which breaker is connected to which major appliances, outlets, or other service.

Before Calling an Electrician

Should a failure occur in any part of your home, always check the breakers in the main panel box before calling an electrician.

Breakers​

Circuit breakers have three positions: on, off, and tripped. When a circuit breaker trips, it must first be turned off before it can be turned on. Switching the breaker directly from tripped to on will not restore service.

Breakers Tripping​

Breakers trip because of overloads, usually caused by plugging too many appliances into the circuit, a worn cord or defective appliance, operating an appliance with too high a voltage requirement for the circuit, starting an electric motor, or other reasons.

If any circuit trips repeatedly, unplug all items connected to it and reset. If it trips when nothing is connected to it, you need an electrician. If the circuit remains on, one of the items you unplugged is defective and will require repair or replacement.

Carbon Monoxide Alarms and Smoke Detectors​

Read the manufacturer's manual for detailed information on the care of your carbon monoxide alarm and smoke detectors.

TaskGuideline
Battery replacementA chirping sound is a sign the battery needs to be replaced; most units use a 9-volt battery
CleaningClean each unit periodically to prevent a false alarm or lack of response in a fire
TestingAfter cleaning, push the test button to confirm the alarm is working
Helpful Hint

Use a can of air to blow out the smoke detector where dust may have accumulated.

Locations​

Carbon monoxide alarms and smoke detectors are installed in accordance with building codes, which dictate locations. Classic cannot omit any carbon monoxide alarm or smoke detector, and you should not remove or disable any smoke detector.

Fixture and Outlet Locations​

Light fixtures and outlets are installed in general locations indicated on the plans and may vary from locations shown in models and similar plans. Moving fixtures and outlets to accommodate specific furniture arrangements or room use is your responsibility.

GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupters)​

GFCI receptacles have a built-in element that senses fluctuations in power. Quite simply, the GFCI is a circuit breaker. Building codes require installation of these receptacles in bathrooms, the kitchen, outside, and the garage (areas where an individual can come into contact with water while holding an electric appliance or tool). Heavy appliances such as freezers or power tools will trip the GFCI breaker.

Each GFCI circuit has a test and reset button. Once each month, press the test button. This will trip the circuit. To return service, press the reset button. If a GFCI breaker trips during normal use, it may indicate a faulty appliance and you will need to investigate the problem. One GFCI breaker can control multiple outlets.

Caution

Never plug a refrigerator or food freezer into a GFCI-controlled outlet. The likelihood of the contents being ruined is high. Classic is not responsible for food spoilage that results from plugging refrigerators or freezers into a GFCI outlet.

Grounded System​

Your electrical system is a three-wire grounded system. Never remove the bare wire that connects to the box or device.

Light Bulbs​

You are responsible for replacing burned-out bulbs; Classic will replace light bulbs that are listed on the Final Walkthrough/Orientation Form.

Outlets​

If an outlet is not working, check first to see if it is controlled by a wall switch or GFCI. Next, check the breaker.

Due to a Federal Statute, your home will have tamperproof (childproof) outlets installed in various locations throughout the home. These locations are determined by the Statute; Classic cannot install non-conforming outlets in these areas.

If there are small children in the home, you may want to install safety plugs on the non-tamperproof outlets. Please instruct or teach children to never touch or insert any objects into electrical outlets, sockets, or fixtures.

Underground Cables​

Before digging anywhere in your yard, you are required to call and order locates for your yard. Maintain positive drainage around the foundation to protect electrical service connections.

Troubleshooting Tips: No Electrical Service​

No Electrical Service Anywhere in the Home​

Before calling for service, check to confirm that the:

  • Service is not out in the entire area. If so, contact the utility company.
  • Main breaker and individual breakers are all in the on position.

No Electrical Service to One or More Outlets​

Before calling for service, check to confirm that the:

  • Main breaker and individual breakers are all in the on position
  • Applicable wall switch is on
  • GFCI is set (see details on GFCIs, earlier in this section)
  • Item you want to use is plugged in
  • Item you want to use works in other outlets
  • Bulb in the lamp is good

Even if the troubleshooting tips do not identify a solution, the information you gather will be useful to the service provider you call.

Warranty Coverage: See Electrical System Standards for coverage details.