5-pin SPDT (single pole, double throw) automotive relay.

Relays are essentially two parts in one package. The first part is an inductive coil (pins 85 and 86). This coil is the “trigger” function of the relay. By applying both a positive (+) and ground (-) to the contacts, current passes through the coil. When current passes through the coil, a magnetic field is generated and moves the switch (the arrow in the diagram). This is where the second part of the relay comes into play.

The second part of the relay is the “switch.” The switch has three interface contacts—common, normally closed, and normally open. “Normally” refers to the state of the relay not being energized.

While relays can be used for virtually any task, there are some very useful, simple applications for adding LED lighting to a vehicle. Please note that this wiring only pertains to the relay—not the wires in the vehicle. Before interfacing with a wire in a vehicle, always ensure you test the wire with a digital multimeter first to confirm circuit function.

Positive Switching

Positive switching is used for applications where the “trigger” for your switch or circuit is positive. This could be an ignition, brake, or reverse light wire for example.  This could be used for applications such as off-road light bars, work lights, additional brake lights, and other exterior lighting.

Negative Switching

Negative switching is used for applications where the “trigger” for your switch or circuit is negative. Negative triggers are often found in door, hatch, and trunk triggers as well as many interior switches. This could be used for applications such as footwell lighting, truck bed lighting, under-hood lighting, and other interior lighting.

Switch Activated With Ignition Override

This is useful for applications where you want to turn your light on or off with a switch but only want the light to remain on when the car is running or key is in the “ignition” position. The main advantage to this is—even if the switch is left on—the light (or output circuit) will shut off when the key is turned off so that the battery will not be run down.

For technical questions, don’t hesitate to call us toll free at 866-590-3533. Our customer service and technical support teams are available from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. CDT Monday-Thursday and 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. CDT on Friday.

By Elisa Voland

So, you’ve realized you need a whole house surge protector installed in your home. Don’t panic – the entire process is a lot less stressful than you think it might be. Mr. Electric will be there to assist and make sure your expensive and sensitive electronics are well protected. We have included some information about the installation process to make this as simple as possible.

Before Mr. Electric arrives, be sure to clear at least three feet around your electrical panel as required by code for proper workspace for the technician. Don't fret about preparing your home beyond that – we understand you have busy schedules, and our experts will be able to take care of the rest. The area where we will be working varies depending on the job, but technicians will mostly be at the main electrical panel. We will be sure to use drop cloths and wear booties wherever we go in your home to prevent any dirt coming inside.

Our technicians will be sure to explain the task performed before beginning work and will answer any questions during the installation. The entire installation process should take under an hour so expect your electricity to be shut off for the duration of the time while we work.

After we install your surge protector, we will properly clean up any messes made during the job, beyond the extra precautions taken with the booties and drop cloths. We will also vacuum any debris created during our work. Mr. Electric warrants all of our work for a year, so if any problem arises with your surge protector, we will not hesitate to assess the problem and find a solution. 

After that, sit back, relax and enjoy the peace of mind knowing that your home electronics are protected when storm season arrives. We’re here to power your tomorrow! Call Mr. Electric today!

When winter weather hits, a standby generator can be crucial for keeping your home’s essential functions, including heat (either from your main HVAC system or from a space heater) running. But ice storms and freezing temperatures can prevent the generator from working properly when you need it most. Fortunately, there are a number of add-ons you can install on your generator to keep it running smoothly, even when the thermostat plunges!

You probably already know that cold weather can kill your car’s battery. Well it’s the same for your generator! Thermostatically controlled battery warmers go underneath the battery, turning on when the temperature drops below 40 F. The best part about battery warmers is you don’t have to monitor them—they’re just set and forget.

Warm oil acts as a slippery lubricant, keeping all the parts of your generator moving the way they’re supposed to. Cold oil, on the other hand, turns into a sludge-like substance that can actually prevent movement! A cold weather kit will include a crank case heater that prevents the oil from getting so cold that it becomes unusable.

Manufacturers recommend replacing the standard 10W-30 oil with 5W-30 Synthetic Oil if you do decide to add a heater.

Generac cold weather kits are recommended for CorePower units installed in areas where temperatures below 32 F are common, which includes our area. For generator services in Maryland, Virginia, or Washington, DC, call Kolb Electric today!