The Circuit Board
News, tips, and insights from your local electrical experts.
Last updated: June 2026
Installing Outdoor Lighting for Summer Evenings
Outdoor lighting improves safety, security, and curb appeal while making your yard usable after dark. Learn the types, low vs line voltage, and what to consider before installing.
Last updated: June 2026
Backyard Upgrades That May Require an Electrician
From outdoor kitchens to hot tubs and landscape lighting, many popular backyard projects need proper electrical work. Learn what requires an electrician and how to plan ahead.
Last updated: May 2026
Top Home Upgrades That Increase Property Value
Electrical upgrades may not be the most visible improvements, but they have a big impact on resale. Learn which high-value upgrades help your home sell faster and avoid inspection red flags.
Last updated: May 2026
Outdoor Electrical Upgrades to Do This Spring
Spring is the ideal time to upgrade your outdoor electrical system before the summer rush. From outlets and landscape lighting to spa wiring, here are the projects to plan now.
Last updated: May 2026
How Financing Makes Electrical Upgrades More Affordable
Panel upgrades, EV chargers, and safety repairs are needs, not wants — but the upfront cost can be tough. Learn how financing helps Everett homeowners get the work done without delay.
Last updated: May 2026
Is Your Electrical System Ready for AC Season?
Air conditioners are one of the largest electrical loads in your home. Learn how to tell if your panel, circuits, and wiring are ready for summer — before the heat hits.
Last updated: May 2026
How to Reset a Tripped Breaker Safely
A tripped breaker is common, but resetting it the right way matters. Learn the safe step-by-step process, common causes, and when it is time to call an electrician.
Last updated: April 2026
Does Your Everett Home Have a Dangerous Electrical Panel?
Federal Pacific and Zinsco panels in older Everett homes can be a serious fire hazard. Learn the warning signs, why these panels fail, and when to consider an upgrade.
Last updated: April 2026
How to Tell If Your Outlets Are Properly Grounded
Ungrounded outlets are a serious safety risk. Learn how to check your outlets, why grounding matters, and what to do if your home has ungrounded wiring.
Last updated: April 2026
Top 7 Electrical Problems in Everett Homes
A local electrician's guide for Snohomish County homeowners. Learn about the most common electrical issues we see in Everett homes — from knob-and-tube wiring to outdated panels — and how to fix them.
Last updated: April 2026
Do You Need a Surge Protector If You Have a Generator?
Even homes with backup generators can experience power surges. Learn why whole-home surge protection is still important and how it works alongside your generator.
Last updated: April 2026
Why Spring Is the Best Time to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel
Spring is the ideal time to upgrade your electrical panel before summer demand hits. Learn why scheduling now means easier appointments, improved safety, and a system ready for high-power appliances.
Last updated: March 2026
Everett & Snohomish: Neighborhoods Most Prone to Power Outages (And How to Stay Powered)
Some Snohomish County neighborhoods lose power more often than others. Learn which areas are most affected and how a backup generator can keep your home safe.
Last updated: March 2026
Spring Electrical Maintenance Checklist for Homeowners
Spring is the perfect time to give your home's electrical system a once-over. Use this checklist to stay ahead of problems, protect your home, and avoid surprise repairs later.
Last updated: February 2026
What Does "Up to Code" Actually Mean?
You hear it all the time: "Is this up to code?" But what does that actually mean for your safety and your wallet?
Last updated: January 2026
What Can a Home Generator Actually Power?
Thinking about a backup generator? Let's break down exactly what different sizes of generators can keep running during a blackout.
Last updated: December 2025
Do You Need a Dedicated Circuit for That Space Heater?
Space heaters are a common cause of tripped breakers and electrical fires. Find out when you need a dedicated line.
Last updated: December 2025
Why Backup Generators Are Becoming a Must-Have
With Washington winters getting more unpredictable, reliable backup power is moving from a luxury to a necessity.
Last updated: December 2025
The Winter Home Safety Checklist: Electrical Edition
Before winter hits full force, run through this essential electrical safety checklist to keep your home protected all season long.
Last updated: November 2025
How to Connect a Generator to Your Home Safely
Connecting a generator incorrectly can be dangerous. Here's what every homeowner should know about safe generator connections, transfer switches, and more.
Last updated: October 2025
5 Common Lighting Mistakes Homeowners Make (and How to Avoid Them)
Good lighting transforms a home, but common mistakes can leave rooms feeling dim or off-balance. Here are the top 5 lighting mistakes and how to fix them.
Last updated: October 2025
Knob and Tube Wiring: Dangers Every Homeowner Should Know
If your home was built before the 1950s, you may have knob and tube wiring—a serious safety risk that can affect insurance, resale, and renovations.
Last updated: October 2025
Standby vs. Portable Generators: Which One Is Right for Your Home?
Both standby and portable generators can keep your home running during an outage, but they come with different benefits, limitations, and costs.
Last updated: September 2025
Is Your Home Ready for a Backup Generator?
Before you install a backup generator, there are important things to consider. Here's a checklist to make sure your home is generator-ready.
Last updated: September 2025
Why Is Aluminum Wiring Dangerous in Homes?
If your home was built in the 1960s or 1970s, it may contain aluminum wiring—a hidden safety risk that can lead to electrical failures and fires.
Last updated: July 2025
Do You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade? Here's What Homeowners Should Know
If your lights flicker, breakers keep tripping, or your home can't handle new appliances—your electrical panel might be the issue.
Last updated: June 2025
DIY Electrical Mistakes We See Too Often (and How to Avoid Them)
Even small DIY electrical mistakes can lead to big risks. Here are the most common ones we see—and how to avoid putting your home in danger.
Last updated: June 2025
A Beginner's Guide to Your Home's Electrical System
Understanding the basics of your home's electrical system can help you stay safe, spot problems early, and make smarter decisions about upgrades.
Last updated: June 2025
Electrical Upgrades That Add Value to Your Home
From safety improvements to smart features, electrical upgrades not only improve how your home functions—they also increase its resale value.
Last updated: June 2025
What Is a GFCI Outlet and Why Does Your Bathroom Need One?
A GFCI outlet protects you from electric shock by cutting power in less than a second. Here's why every bathroom needs one.
Last updated: May 2025
Why Installing an EV Charger at Home Is a Smart Move for Homeowners
Whether you already own an EV or are considering one, having a dedicated home charging station offers convenience, cost savings, and increased home value.