Where good advice never goes out of style

What Backup Power Option Makes Sense for Your Home?
Curtis Brown Curtis Brown

What Backup Power Option Makes Sense for Your Home?

Thinking about backup power for your home? Here’s a simple look at the difference between portable generator setups, mid-range connection options like GenerLink, and Generac whole-home standby generators.

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Installing a Ceiling Fan in Ontario: Why a Fan-Rated Box Matters
Curtis Brown Curtis Brown

Installing a Ceiling Fan in Ontario: Why a Fan-Rated Box Matters

Installing a ceiling fan isn’t just a simple swap — it requires proper box support, correct wiring, and compliance with Ontario’s Electrical Safety Code. In Whitby and across Durham Region, we often see fans mounted to boxes that weren’t rated to carry the weight. Here’s what homeowners should know before tackling a fan installation themselves.

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Not All Light Fixtures Are Approved for Use in Ontario
Curtis Brown Curtis Brown

Not All Light Fixtures Are Approved for Use in Ontario

Not all light fixtures sold online are approved for installation in Ontario. Learn which certification marks are required by the Electrical Safety Authority, where homeowners often get caught, and how to avoid problems before installing a new light.

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Why Electrical Breakers Trip (And When It’s a Warning Sign)
Curtis Brown Curtis Brown

Why Electrical Breakers Trip (And When It’s a Warning Sign)

Breakers trip for a reason — but the reason depends on the type of breaker and what it’s protecting against. Learn the most common causes of tripping, the lifespan of breakers, and why a breaker that never trips isn’t always a good sign.

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Handyman vs Licensed Electrician: What’s the Real Difference?
Curtis Brown Curtis Brown

Handyman vs Licensed Electrician: What’s the Real Difference?

Most homeowners don’t realize that in Ontario, a handyman legally can’t perform electrical work — even simple things like replacing a switch or receptacle. This article explains the real differences in licensing, safety, insurance, and accountability so you can choose the right person for the job.

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