When it comes to electricity usage, an electric stove is a powerhouse. Consequently, you can't just plug them into the standard 110 volt outlets that are most common in the United States – most stoves require a special 220 volt outlet instead. If you are building or remodeling a kitchen, read on for a rundown on how to install one of these special outlets. However, remember that installing an outlet or performing other electrical work is not for amateurs. If you have any doubt about your own experience or qualifications, ask an electrician for help instead of embarking on a tricky and potentially dangerous operation.

All the Voltage You Need

A 220 volt outlet allows the stove to draw more power so it can quickly generate and maintain heat. The same heavy duty outlets are also used for big-ticket appliances like electric dryers and water heaters, occasionally with minor modifications.

The first step in installing an outlet, as with all electric work, is to shut down the power at the source. Open up your circuit box and switch the main disconnect to OFF, turning off the electricity to your entire home. You should double check that you've cut the power by trying some lights or devices to eliminate any risk of electrocuting yourself once you start dealing with wiring.

Breakers, Cables and Outlets

Next, you need to install a switch in the circuit box to control your new outlet. Look for two open slots in a row to ensure room to install a double-wide circuit breaker switch, then install it following the manufacturer’s instructions. You'll need to install a connector into the side of the circuit box as well so that you can connect the electrical cable inside the box. If you feel unsure at this or any other point and need help, just ask. An electrician will be able to make sure that your installation is done safely and effectively.

Next, run the cable through the wall to the area where you want to locate the outlet. You may need to drill holes in the home’s frame to allow the cable to reach the kitchen without interfering with other wiring or utility systems. When everything is lined up, strip away the insulation at the end of the cable and connect it to your new outlet. Screw the outlet into the wall and you're almost ready to go.

Ready to Start Cooking

Finally, you need to run the cable through the connecter that you installed in the circuit box, and then wire it into the circuit breaker. Don't forget to hook up the grounding terminal as well. When you're confident that everything is wired correctly, turn the new outlet's breaker to the off position and switch the main power to the house back on. Turn on the new breaker and test the outlet with a voltmeter to ensure that it's receiving the proper amount of power. Only then are you ready to start cooking.

Note that the exact process of wiring the outlet and the breaker involve quite a bit of detail, so you must carefully read all instructions that come with your outlet kit. If at any point you run into trouble or don't feel comfortable, ask an electrician to come lend a helping hand.

The changing seasons, like the changing characteristics of matter, present dichotomies and the challenge in life is learning to find a successful balance.  Cultivating the right lighting design is all about a successful balance. Our outdoor lighting how-to guide will help you to establish and maintain a splendid outdoor oasis to be enjoyed year-round.

Capitol Lighting Respects the Night with Champion Illumination

The trend toward outdoor living continues with expanding decks and patios and customizing outdoor kitchens for outdoor entertainment.  Also, fireplaces, fire pits, and space heaters are being added to extend outdoor living well beyond the spring and summer months.  To make these areas as comfortable, safe, and maintenance-free as possible, great lighting is key.

Capitol Lighting’s Expert Advice for Lighting Up Outdoors

The conditions are perfect for outdoor lighting installations. Learn how-to customize the perfect outdoor lighting design and : Follow along with our

1.  Consider the areas to be illuminated:

•General lighting for decks, porches and patios.

•Accent lighting for gardens, fountains, statues and unique architectural elements.

•Security lighting for walkways and driveways.

•Decorative lighting for home entry zones.

2.  Choose your power supply and be sure that all outdoor and landscape lighting fixtures are compatible with the system.

3.  Choose landscape lighting fixtures more for their lighting effects rather than their aesthetic appeal.  The decorative features of landscape lights should be secondary to the objects they illuminate. With a good lighting design, landscape fixtures will provide understated elegance to the outdoor environment during the day, as well as at night.

4.  Decide which system works best for you:  Low voltage lighting provides softer more luxurious illumination, while LED is extremely energy-efficient, low-maintenance and most durable.  Incandescent bulbs typically last 1,000-2,000 hours; fluorescent bulbs may last 10,000-15,000 hours; and, LED bulbs may last 35,000-50,000 hours.

5.  Make sure to power your lighting with the appropriate transformers and wiring. If you are thinking about adding to your outside lighting system, choose power sources that will accommodate the additional fixtures.

6.  Automated timers and motion- or heat-sensitive controls make your home appear occupied during the night and save on energy costs. Locate timers and controls in areas where they are easily accessible.

7.  All outside lighting fixtures and accessories must be selected to withstand the elements, including sun, humidity, rain, ice and snow.  Check that all items are waterproof and UL-approved for outdoor use. Copper, brass and composite fixtures are excellent for homes near the seashore where salty air may be a factor.

8.  Think about landscape lighting as part of your planning and construction in a new home environment.  Outdoor lighting designers should coordinate with landscape architects and electricians.

9.  Traditional wall lights such as wall lanterns bracketing main entryway doors help you to identify visitors and ensure their safety.  They are also appropriate for rear and side entrances and over garage doors. Be sure to select post lanterns and wall brackets that are proportional to your home.  When in doubt, size up.  Fixtures appear smaller from curbside viewing than most people would imagine. * *

10.  Take care to avoid glare and pointing fixtures into your neighbor’s property. Curb “light pollution” with shielded fixtures that focus illumination downward.  Most outdoor fixtures may be easily focused to light the environment for safety, security and aesthetics while protecting other areas from unwanted glare and profuse light. * * *

**Rule of thumb for sizing outdoor wall lanterns:  The height of the lantern should be based on the height of the door.  If brackets are to be installed on either side of the door, they should measure about one-fourth the height of the door.  If using only one lantern, size up to about one-third the height of the door.

***“Dark Sky” Compliancy and light pollution:  A man-made culprit, due mainly to poor lighting design, is a phenomenon called “light pollution.”  Light pollution is any adverse effect of artificial light, including sky glow, glare, light trespass, light clutter, decreased visibility at night, and energy waste.  Many of Capitol Lighting’s trusted manufacturers offer “Dark Sky” versions of their outdoor lighting products, which “collar” the light bulb around its base to block superfluous upward emissions of light.

Capitol Lighting’s professional lighting consultants will help you in selecting everything from timers and outdoor hanging pendants to path lights and post lanterns.  Work with the experts to devise fabulous landscape lighting designs and prepare your outdoor environment with quality security lighting customized to enhance the beauty of your home.

CRI) of 82 to show the true colors of objects and surroundings.

A rocker switch allows for two levels of light, but the fixture can also be dimmed with an electronic low-voltage (ELV) dimmer. Up to 10 under-cabinet fixtures can be joined in a series with our interconnect cables. The low-profile white aluminum fixture has 120V AC operation and is designed to last 30,000 hours—three times longer than equivalent fluorescent fixtures.

photo courtesy of moviewritemyu.wordpress.com

“The first rooftop celebration atop One Times Square, complete with fireworks display, took place in 1904.*

Don’t let this New Year’s Eve slip away without a proper celebration.  Whether you are quietly reminiscing with a loved one over dinner or out on the town in the midst of noisemakers and confetti–see yourself in the best of light and make 2015 your brightest year yet.  New chandeliers, table lamps and wall lights are a marvel with outstanding and energy-wise light sources and intriguing configurations.

“CHIMERA” WALL SCONCE FROM CORBETT

“URBAN NIGHTS” FROM MAXIM

“RING O” FROM VAN TEAL

“GATHERING” FROM VAN TEAL

“RAVENNA” FOYER PENDANT FROM HINKLEY LIGHTING

See the the latest portable lamps, chandeliers and decorative accessories at 1800lighting.com. Stay tuned for the latest introductions from the Dallas Market January 2015.  Visit a Capitol Lighting showroom or 1800lighting.com for expert advice and a complimentary lighting plan for a new year of inspiring illumination.

*wikipedia.com