I have recently remodeled my kitchen and was replacing the receptacles along the counter top. The receptacles are wired as split circuits. Most boxes had two 14/3 cables entering the box (in Canada, 14/3 is code). The electrician had red and black wires attached to both the terminal screws AND the backstab holes on the back of the receptacle. From what I have read here, I have not used the backstabs when I replaced them. I connected the reds together and the blacks together, then ran pigtails to the receptacles. Is this a superior connection to what was originally there? Thanks.

How many lights can I put on one breaker?? I know there is an equation for this(something to do with breaker amperage vs. total wattage of lights) but I can't think of it. And is it possible to use one breaker to control different sets of lights....what I mean is, I have three "areas" in my basement. I want each "area" to have its own light switch. Is threre a way to wire them all together so all I need is one breaker(Provided the total wattage is ok)? If so, could someone give a pretty detailed explanation? I'm assuming all you need to do is have the hot wire jumper to each switch. Thanks for any info..if you have questions cuz I didn't explain myself well please yell..... Ron