While it is never suggested that you DIY electrical problems, you must understand how the electrician sets up the electrical system in your home. Here is an overview of the key components that make up the electrical system in your home. Your electrician will be able to explain these to you as well.
1. Understanding the Electrical Entry Point
We will start with the electrical entry point. This is where the electricity from the grid comes into your home. The electrical entry point may be overhead or in-ground. It largely depends on where you live and how up-to-date the grid is.
There is a meter that registers the amount of electricity that you are using that is attached at the entry point. The cable from the electricity provider is connected to the meter. This is also where your main breaker panel will be located. The main breaker panel is an essential safety feature that ensures the safe distribution of power.
The electric company is responsible for the installation of the meter, wiring, and other components that lead up to the meter. You, the homeowner, are responsible for everything on the other side of the meter inside the home. A professional electrician can make sure everything is up to code.
2. Exploring Wiring, Outlets, and Switches
The circuitry in your home is made up of wires, outlets, and switches. Each component in the circuit system plays a vital role. The wiring carries the electricity to the outlets and switches. The outlets provide electricity for electrical appliances and goods. The switches control the electricity.
A critical part of the circuitry in your home is the circuit breaker panel. This panel will shut off power to certain grid sections when a problem is detected. For example, if an electrical device is plugged into an outlet and the device overheats, the circuit breaker will trip and cut off electricity to that section of the home. The breaker panel should never be tampered with.
According to Indiana University, a typical outlet supplies 120 volts of electricity. Some outlets are on what is called a “dedicated circuit.” Typically, dedicated circuits are required for large appliances like HVAC systems, stoves, refrigerators, and other heavy-duty needs.
3. Installing GCFI and AFCI Outlets
Part of your electrical system has been outfitted with GFCI and AFCI outlets. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) and Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) enhance safety by detecting hazardous conditions. GFCI outlets interrupt power when they detect a difference between the hot and neutral wires, indicating a potential ground fault.
AFCI outlets detect dangerous electrical arcs and disconnect power to prevent fires. GFCIs are typically installed in areas with a higher risk of electric shock, like bathrooms and kitchens. Anywhere water is present, you will likely find a GFCI outlet. AFCIs are used to protect against electrical fires in living areas.
These outlets play a critical role in electrical safety in your home. An electrician installs these outlets to ensure your home complies with electrical building codes. These outlets usually have a reset button that can be pushed to reset the outlet after the danger has been removed.
4. Utilizing Hardwired Electrical Features
In most homes, you will find ceiling lights and ceiling fans. Lights and fans are usually hardwired into the home’s electrical system. Each feature has its own components to control the lighting and speed of the fan. Some equipment in your home may also be hardwired into the system.
Hardwiring describes when an appliance or fixture bypasses an outlet and is connected directly to your home wiring. Examples include your HVAC system, your dishwasher, and other appliances. These appliances are hardwired into the electrical system rather than plugged into a standard outlet for several vital reasons related to safety.
Hardwiring appliances reduces the risk of accidental disconnection, which can be a safety hazard, especially for heavy-duty appliances that draw significant power. For example, a loose plug can lead to overheating and potentially cause a fire. This permanent connection provides reliability.
Understanding the electrical system in your home helps you appreciate the complexity of the work done by an electrician. Each component is vital in delivering safe and reliable power to your home, from the service entrance to the smallest outlet. Call Watt’s Right Electric today if you have questions, need repairs, or want to change your electrical system.