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Many small-to-big electrical problems creep in during commercial construction, while others are caused over time as people use electricity inside the building.
These problems can be dangerous, resulting in property damage, injuries, or worse – deaths. Here are a few of the most common issues you should be on the lookout for:
Power Loss
This is one of the most common issues many facilities and commercial buildings face. It occurs when the electrical wires touch each other, or a pest like a rat is electrocuted, or fluctuations damage the fuse. The severity or frequency of the power loss depends upon the building’s age or design.
Solution: A power loss may affect a part of the entire building. If it’s just a building part, you can attempt to reset the circuit breaker or reset the fuse. This will restore power to the entire building. However, if there is another electrical failure, the cause is likely due to an issue with the main fuse board or the main power cable. In that case, consider taking professional help.
Flickering & Dimming Lights
Flickering & dimming lights is a minor electrical problem that can turn into a big mess in no time. Being a small problem, many building owners tend to ignore it. But if flickering & dimming lights are not attended in a timely manner, they can impact other important electrical issues in the building, leading to more expensive repairs.
Solution: Get your facilities maintenance in charge or building manager to inspect the circuit of the affected area and repair any electrical issues. If the problem persists, contact an electrical contractor.
Hot Switches & Fixtures
When a light switch feels abnormally warm to the touch, it’s best to get it checked out to avoid a possible electrical short. This is because the warm sensation is due to the flow of current through the wires, which requires a lot of energy.
If the switch is too hot, it can either be the result of a short circuit or the failure of the switch itself. As such, it’s best to get the switch checked by an electrician to avoid the failure of the electrical system in your building—which could lead to damages or injury.
Tripping breakers
Tripping breakers are a common problem in the commercial and industrial sectors. Common problems that cause breaker problems in commercial buildings are:
- Overloaded Circuits: If circuits are overloaded with high resistance or high current loads, the breaker will trip to prevent overheating and avoid a fire. Overloaded circuits will cause an electrical fire when the system is turned off and left for a prolonged time.
- Ground Fault or a Short Circuit: If the ground fault or a short circuit is not detected in time, a fire will start. A ground fault or a short circuit occurs when electricity wants to return to its source but takes a different path.
It is best to ask a professional electrician to do these repairs.
Final Word:
From electrical fires, power surges, and temporary blackouts to faulty equipment and the ever-present risk of electrical shock, electrical safety is one of the most important aspects of any building.
Use the tips mentioned in this article to ensure that your workers and clients are protected from these electrical hazards.