In today’s project you can get your hands dirty and learn about circuits at the same time! Follow our step-by-step instructions to create your own dirt battery using just dirt, copper wire, galvanized steel screws, an ice tray, LED diodes, and….a lemon?
We’d love to see your completed projects! Email us ( admin@dunmanelectric.com) a photo of your dirt battery with your name and age to enter our monthly raffle for a Snap Circuits Explorer kit!
TEJE#667869
Jeff started at Dunman Electric as an apprentice 5 years ago, worked his way up to Journeyman, and is now one of our lead technicians, running his own crew daily. Jeff is especially skilled at troubleshooting tricky electrical issues, installing recessed can lighting (even in those high, hard-to-reach places that require a tall ladder), and handling Ethernet wiring with precision. He takes pride in making sure every project is done safely, efficiently, and up to code.
When he’s not on the job, Jeff stays active. He’s a former pro skateboarder—check out some of his moves in this video—and now enjoys time at home with his young family and two dogs, Huck and Roper. The same focus and dedication he brings to his work show up in every part of his life, which is exactly why we’re proud to have him on our team!
Loved your service with Jeff? Leave us a Google review and mention Jeff by name—technicians with standout reviews are eligible for bonuses!
by Craig Dunman, Master Electrician
What Is a Circuit Breaker?
A circuit breaker is a safety device in your electrical panel that automatically shuts off power to a specific circuit when it detects an overload or fault. Think of it as a guardian of your home’s wiring. If a breaker trips, it’s doing its job—stopping electricity before it can cause overheating, damage, or even a fire.
Circuit breakers replace older fuse systems and are now standard in modern homes. Each breaker is connected to specific areas or appliances in your home: kitchen outlets, air conditioners, lighting circuits, etc.
How Does a Breaker Work?
Breakers are designed with thermal and magnetic mechanisms that sense unsafe conditions:
Each breaker is rated for a certain amperage—commonly 15, 20, or 30 amps. Exceeding that number, even momentarily, will trip it.
Why Do Breakers Trip?
Some common reasons include:
If a breaker trips once, it may just be a fluke. But if it happens again, there’s likely a deeper issue.
How to Safely Reset a Tripped Breaker
If your power goes out in one part of the house, follow these steps:
⚠️ IMPORTANT: If the breaker trips again immediately, do not keep resetting it. You’re likely dealing with a more serious issue. ⚠️
When to Call a Licensed Electrician
Here’s when it’s best to leave it to the pros:
Remember: Breakers trip for a reason. Continuously flipping them back on without fixing the root issue can be dangerous.
Bonus Tip: Label Your Breakers
Many homeowners don’t know which breaker controls what. Take time to label them clearly—this saves time during an outage and helps electricians work more efficiently when needed. This is also a service we offer here at Dunman Electric. Or you can read our article on how to label your panels on your own.
Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn breaker, need panel upgrades, or just want a professional inspection, Dunman Electric has you covered. Our licensed electricians bring decades of experience, and we’re happy to help you learn how to keep your home safe and efficient.
📞 Call us today or book online for prompt, reliable service.
by Craig Dunman, Master Electrician
Your breaker panel is the command center for your home’s electrical system — but if the circuits aren’t labeled clearly, it becomes a guessing game.
In an emergency, during repairs, or when installing new equipment, knowing exactly which breaker controls what can save time, prevent injury, and avoid damage to your appliances or wiring. A clearly labeled panel is one of the simplest ways to make your home safer and more manageable.
Whether you’re a new homeowner or just never got around to organizing it, labeling your panel is something you can do yourself!
Before you begin, gather the following supplies:
[] A second person (for faster and more accurate testing)
[] Sticky notes or masking tape (for temporary labels)
[] Permanent marker (fine tip works best)
[] Notepad or printed circuit map
[] Plug-in device (lamp or outlet tester)
[] Phone or camera (to document your final layout)
A circuit map is a written list or diagram that shows which circuit breaker powers which part of your home. This may be printed on the panel door, written on paper, or created digitally. Other terms for a circuit map include “Panel Schedule” or “Circuit Breaker Directory”. A complete map should include:
This map is your reference guide for resetting breakers, shutting off electricity fast in an emergency, and helping service professionals do their jobs quickly and correctly.
1. Start with Safety
You will not be touching live wires, but you’ll be working inside the breaker panel. Stand on a dry surface, make sure your hands are dry, and only open the panel door — do not remove the metal cover or access the internal wiring.
2. Turn Off One Breaker at a Time
Have one person at the panel and the other inside the home. Flip a breaker off, then walk the home and check which lights, outlets, or appliances have lost power. Use a plug-in lamp or tester for quick verification.
3. Record What You Find
As each breaker is tested, write down everything it controls. Be as specific as possible — “Front Hall Light” is more useful than “Lights.”
Use sticky notes or tape to temporarily label each breaker directly on the panel.
4. Check Everywhere
Don’t forget:
These may each be on their own circuits.
5. Apply Permanent Labels
Once every circuit has been identified, use your notes to create clean, permanent labels. Most electrical panels have a printed directory inside the door — fill this out legibly.
Then, take a photo of the finished panel. Keep one copy in your home files and one on your phone.
We get it! Not everyone wants to spend a weekend testing outlets and writing notes. At Dunman Electric, we offer full breaker panel labeling services.
Here’s what we do:
Whether you’re moving in, upgrading your system, or just want things done right, we’re here to help.
Call us today to schedule your breaker labeling service — or ask about bundling it with a full safety inspection or panel upgrade.
by Craig Dunman, Master Electrician
Smoke detectors are among the most important safety devices in your home. We at Dunman Electric want to empower homeowners with the knowledge and confidence to protect themselves and their families. In this article, I’ll explain why smoke detectors save lives, clarify the difference between battery-operated and hardwired alarms, and provide a clear, step-by-step guide to installing your own battery-operated smoke detectors safely.
Smoke detectors detect the presence of smoke particles through ionization or photoelectric sensors. When smoke reaches the detector’s sensor, the device sounds a loud alarm to alert you and your family to potential danger.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), working smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by nearly 50%. Many tragic fires happen at night when people are asleep and unaware. A smoke alarm’s loud signal provides early warning, giving everyone more time to escape safely.
Understanding Alarm Signals
There are two common types of smoke detectors you’ll find in homes:
Both types must meet Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standards to ensure that they have passed rigorous safety and reliability testing.
If you choose battery-operated alarms, you can install them yourself with these straightforward steps.
For further safety guidance, visit these trusted sites:
The Austin Fire Department has a free smoke alarm program for homeowners in the Austin area. For more information, visit their website here.
Smoke detectors are a simple, affordable, and essential part of home safety. Whether you install battery-operated models yourself or invest in hardwired systems, having properly functioning alarms can save lives. A detector that is installed incorrectly or does not work is as good as not having one at all.
If you have any questions about your home’s electrical safety or want professional help installing or upgrading smoke detectors- give us a call, shoot us an email, or reach out through our contact form and schedule a checkup today! Your safety is always our priority.