Safety switches and your Adelaide domestic electrician
March 18, 2014Why are the fuses fitted in the fuse box of a domestic electric supply?
Fuses and circuit breakers protect the wiring between the fuse (or circuit breaker) box, and whatever loads those branches are feeding. They are designed to limit the current flowing in the branch circuits in case of overload or short circuit. If too much current flows, the fuse blows before the wires heat up to the point where they cause damage and possibly a fire. Typically, the branch circuit fuses will be either 20 or 30 Amps for lighting and appliance circuits, and higher ratings – along with heavier wire – for high-current appliances, such as electric ranges and heating and air conditioning units.
How am I protected against electric shocks in my home?
Fuses do not protect against electric shock. Circuit breakers and fuses and designed to protect only the appliances and electrical fitting in your home. This is done using a safety switch or an RCD (Residual-current device) – a device that must be installed by your licensed Adelaide domestic electrician. This is an electrical wiring device that disconnects a circuit if there is a leakage current. By detecting small leakage currents and disconnecting quickly enough, they may prevent electrocution.
How does a safety switch work?
On a normal power circuit, the current flowing to a appliance returns through the neutral wire. If the circuit is compromised, the electricity can leak to earth through a person in contact with the appliance, causing death or serious injury.
A safety switch detects the loss of power from the circuit, and cuts the supply of electricity in as little as 30 milliseconds (0.03 seconds). This response time is faster than the critical section of a heartbeat, and as such it greatly reduces the risk of serious injury or death.
Your Adelaide domestic electrician can install a safety switch for you. Contact Ned Kelly Electrical today and ensure that your home is protected from any electrical fault.
