John Anello's Blog

A missing knock out blank is one of the most common electrical problems I see in homes. I see it all the time, and try to correct it. Donald Hester wrote a great article about why this situation can cause problems. Missing knock out plug, no big deal… maybe?    Wenatchee and Quincy Home Inspectio...

In this world where we constantly update our social media profiles, we need to think about what we post and where that information will end up.  Once we upload a photo the entire world has access to it. It could easily be copied, and posted on tons of other websites we have never been to and neve...

After my post last week about USB receptacles (here), I wanted to provide a helpful hint about plugging in USB devices.  USB cords, like any other plug can only be inserted one way.  The problem is that we always try to plug them in the wrong way first.  Then, we rotate them around and eventually...

This is another great article about the importance of GFCI (ground fault circuit interupter) or GFI outlets.  It is important to test them to be sure that they trip when they need to. Manufacturers require that they be tested monthly to ensure proper functioning.   Can I switch my two prong outle...

Reversed polarity is common problem in many homes. Typically, at least a few outlets were changed by someone who was not an electrician, and might have miswired them. Here is a great article about why reversed polarity is a problem. Any time  I inspect a house where an amateur has been doing elec...

3D printing is a new type of technology that is revolutionizing the way we think about our world.  The company leading the way is Makerbot, which manufactures the 3D printers and scanners.  The company has three stores, one of them being in Greenwich, CT.  If you are anywhere nearby that is one r...

Kitchen outlets sometimes do not work because of a tripped or broken ground fault circuit interrupter.  Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI), also known as a GFI outlets, are required in kitchen and other areas of the house where there is a high likelihood of encountering moisture or water.  G...

As an electrician in Cos Cob, CT, I depend on my electrical tools for my livelihood.  Having good quality tools and having the right one for the task at hand is of the most important parts of what I do.  I carry a large number of tools and materials with me, but there are a few that every homeown...

Sometimes it is difficult placing the right house with the right person.  Your client may have very specific criteria, and not many available houses that match the description.  However, for a supervillain, finding the right location to carry out world domination is even harder than the average h...

It has been an amazing experience to join the Activerain community.  The emphasis here is on the word, “community.”  As a community, we respect each other and help share our knowledge.   What really surprised me was the willingness of the members to reach out to and help a newbie like myself. The...