Date: Wednesdays 6pm-9pm June 11th, 18th and 25th, 2025
COST: $135 for 9 hours of instruction and hands on learning
Course Description
This practical, in-person course is designed to teach homeowners the fundamentals of residential electricity, safe installation practices, and the requirements of the Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC). Through a blend of hands-on activities and simplified technical concepts, students will leave empowered to understand their home’s electrical system, complete basic upgrades, and know when to call a professional.
Course Outline
Lesson 1 – Basic Electrical Theory & Safe Practices
Topics Covered:
- Structure of electricity: atoms, current, voltage, resistance
- DC vs. AC: sources, uses, and power transmission
- Ohm’s Law: theory and water analogy
- How electricity is produced and delivered
- Home electrical tour: meter, panel, breakers, cables
- Common household electrical issues
Hands-On Activities:
- Installing a utility box and receptacle on a board
- Testing outlets with a multimeter, plug tester, and contact tester
Lesson 2 – Understanding the Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC)
Topics Covered:
- What is the OESC and why it matters
- Permits, inspections, and when to call the ESA
- Receptacle spacing, wire sizing, and breaker compatibility
- Grounding vs. bonding
- Kitchen and bathroom electrical requirements
- GFCI and AFCI protection
- Tamper-resistant and weather-resistant devices
Hands-On Activities:
- Installing a GFCI and light circuit on a board
- Code-based photo game: “What’s wrong with this picture?”
Lesson 3 – Dimmers, Ceiling Fans, and Smart Home Basics
Topics Covered:
- Electrical safety review
- Dimmer switch types and installation
- Ceiling fan installation requirements and code considerations
- Smart home product overview: switches, plugs, thermostats, and automation
- Connectivity types and security concerns
Hands-On Activities:
- Install and test a dimmer switch on a board
- Group installation of a ceiling fan on a demo rig
- Live demo of smart home device integration
By the End of the Course, Students Will:
- Understand how their home’s electrical system functions
- Know how to install basic electrical devices safely
- Recognize common hazards and code violations
- Feel confident discussing electrical projects with professionals
- Be aware of permit requirements and safe DIY limitations
ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Raised in Rosemont, Ontario, Heather McIlwee brings a unique combination of creativity and technical expertise to the electrical trade. After graduating from the Ontario College of Art and Design in 2003, she pursued a career in the skilled trades, earning her Red Seal Electrician certification in 2007 and achieving her Master Electrician designation in 2010.
She launched her first company, Red Fox Electric, in British Columbia in 2012, where she operated for almost four years before returning to Ontario. In 2017, she founded Red Apple Electric, continuing her dedication to high-quality, customer-focused electrical work. As an electrical contractor, she is committed to promoting electrical safety and ensuring all work adheres to the standards of the Ontario Electrical Safety Code
Heather McIlwee, AOCAD, 309A, M.E., E.C.
⚡️Red Apple Electric
