Electrical

Temporary power supply

Temporary power solutions for the construction industry are vital in ensuring that any lighting is provided, as well as power for basic building tools and equipment so that work can proceed.

Electrical switchboards

Electrical Switchboards are an integral part of the Power Distribution System. Different Electrical Panels in a Switchboard divide the Power into smaller components and distribute them across various Devices.

It performs a Controlling Function and hence acts as a guard for the power system. So, it is highly important that you take at most care in installing Switchboards in order to avoid instances of Electric Shock. The following Considerations must be kept in mind before choosing an Electrical Switchboard.

We will ensure the following considerations are kept in mind before choosing an Electrical Switchboard

Electrical hazards and safety

The safety of your family and the building should be the first aspect that is considered while buying an electric switchboard for your home. Switchboards control the entire Electrical System, so it is important that you understand the Details and Specifications of the Equipment which will best suit your Use. It is always better to consult a Qualified Personnel who can guide on understanding the Specifications Required. Make sure you choose a device that surpasses all the Safety Needs of the Building.

Ideal Location

Ideal Location for Home Switch Boards The location of Switchboards must be finalised considering near to Entrance to Rooms or Passage, at Proper Height Levels for Easy Accessibility, Operation & Maintenance.

Ideal Location For Main Switch Boards The room allocated for installing your Switchboards should be Spacious, Easily Accessible and Well Ventilated. It is generally observed that most of the Electrical Rooms are decided at the end of the Planning Stage resulting in Cramped Spaces. Also, it is important that you restrict the Entry of Kids to this room in order to avoid Electrical Hazards.

Efficiency and functionality

Efficiency of Home Switch Boards: Efficiently Working of Switch Boards will Reduce the Cost for Repair/Replacement & Valuable Time of Shut down Required for Replacement.

Efficiency of Main Switch Boards: Only an Efficient Switchboard can operate under Unforeseen Circumstances. For instance, a Generator must Automatically Function in case of a Power Failures during the day or night. The Efficiency of a Switchboard and its Functionality are Interconnected. In order to make it User-Friendly, Colour Coding, Proper Address Labelling can be incorporated into your Devices. It is also highly important to use switches that have an Interlock Mechanism. This will protect the Entire Circuit system from Control Failures.

Reliable Brand

Quality, Reliability & Durability are the other important factors that will Determine the Lifespan for your Electrical Equipment. Always use switchboards of Reputed Brands which have surpassed all quality and safety standards. Try to talk to your peers or a Qualified Personnal to understand the commonly used brands dealing with electrical household equipment. It is always advisable to choose brands which will offer you good customer service and long warranty periods for your devices.

Customisation

The design of a switchboard depends on various factors such as the type of construction, the capacity of current and voltage it can hold and insulation type. Some types of construction require exclusive designs, and in the case of such customisations, it is always ideal to depend on a credible brand for their experience and knowledge. They can offer you a specialist who has expertise in strategising advanced electrical technologies according to your needs.

Installation & Maintenance

Once you make a purchase, it is always wise to call a company expert or a qualified Personnal for proper installation. The most important thing to be noted while installation is the appropriate fabrication of all the devices to ensure safety. Also, during the purchase, it is important to read through all the terms and conditions of warranty and double check on the maintenance services offered by the company. Mostly, switchboards of reliable brands have a long lifespan if maintenance is done at proper intervals

Distribution Boards & Circuit Breakers

The distribution board is the central hub where the main cable enters and is then distributed to secondary circuits such as lights and plugs using breakers. Efficient power distribution is essential for device performance and safety in homes. Distribution boards are more than enclosures; they are comprehensive systems with neutral links, earth leakage units, and interconnecting wires, dedicated to facilitating efficient electrical distribution within households.

In main switchboards, it’s advisable to size breakers at 125% of the load to ensure sufficient capacity and prevent overheating of wires. Oversized breakers can compromise safety by allowing currents to exceed safe levels, while undersized ones may frequently trip during normal operation.

Overhead Solutions & Underground Solutions

Distribution cabling systems can be overhead or underground, with overhead lines typically mounted on wooden, concrete, or steel poles and underground systems utilizing conduits, cables, and manholes beneath streets and sidewalks. The decision between these systems depends on various factors such as location, operating voltage, distance, power transmission requirements, initial and maintenance costs, and the condition of the land. Qualified personnel from Askin will assess these factors to determine the most suitable distribution cabling system for a particular site.

Generators

A prolonged power outage can lead to various inconveniences and expenses, such as spoiled food, frozen pipes, flooded basements, and mold issues. Following a major weather disaster, these challenges can escalate over days or weeks. In such situations, investing in a generator becomes a compelling option. To ensure proper installation and approval from authorities, it’s advisable to consult with an experienced professional. These experts can manage all legal and practical aspects of generator approval, providing peace of mind and efficient solutions.

Permanent Wiring

While low-cost products may be tempting, compromising on quality when selecting wiring outlets can pose serious risks to life and property. Opting for recommended and certified parts is crucial, as they undergo rigorous testing to meet safety standards and performance requirements. Using certified products not only ensures safety but also enhances the lifespan of the electrical system. Therefore, prioritize safety by choosing certified products to protect yourself and your property from potential hazards.

Outdoor Wiring

Outdoor electrical safety requires special attention, particularly when dealing with outdoor lighting systems, which can be hazardous in wet conditions. Ensure all outdoor lighting fixtures, bulbs, and related components are weatherproof and equipped with ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) breakers for protection. Before replacing bulbs or adjusting outdoor lighting, remember to switch off outdoor circuits to prevent potential shocks and hazards.

LED Lighting

LED technology has evolved beyond indicators. Powerful lighting LEDs, including chip-on-board (COB) LEDs, are capable of generating thousands of lumens. Even low-power LEDs are becoming increasingly specialized.

To effectively navigate LED design, consider these six key factors

LED Color Temperature

Brightness preferences are typically straightforward when choosing between a blinker or light source in an LED. However, grasping concepts like color temperature and lumens per Watt can be more complex. Color temperature specifically applies to white light, indicating its cool (bluish) or warm (reddish) appearance, measured in Kelvin (K). This can be counterintuitive because higher temperatures correspond to cooler, bluer colors. Warm light usually ranges from 2700K to 3500K, neutral white is around 4000K, and cool white is above 4700K.Brightness preferences are typically straightforward when choosing between a blinker or light source in an LED. However, grasping concepts like color temperature and lumens per Watt can be more complex. Color temperature specifically applies to white light, indicating its cool (bluish) or warm (reddish) appearance, measured in Kelvin (K). This can be counterintuitive because higher temperatures correspond to cooler, bluer colors. Warm light usually ranges from 2700K to 3500K, neutral white is around 4000K, and cool white is above 4700K.tween warm (fire-like) light versus the cooler (daylight) white light.

The choice of light temperature depends on the specific consumer or industrial application. Warmer colors are favored for enhancing appearance, such as making people look better or food more appetizing. Warm (reddish) light is commonly used in grocery stores to improve the presentation of meat and produce. Conversely, cool whites are popular in office settings to replicate daylight, increase serotonin production, and enhance focus, alertness, and energy. Cool white lights are easier to achieve with current LED technology, making them more cost-effective and efficient. The chart below illustrates the temperature contrast between warm and cooler white light.

LED Light Wavelength

When choosing LEDs, many people encounter the problem of the green or blue shade not meeting their expectations. To ensure you achieve the desired color, it's essential to carefully consider the wavelength specification. This helps determine whether you'll obtain a true green or a yellow-green hue.

LED Efficiency – Lumens per Watt

LED efficiency, measured in lumens per Watt (lm/W), is a crucial factor in lighting technology. It represents the total lumens emitted by the LED divided by the total power consumed. Typically, customers aim for around 100 lm/W from their entire lighting system, accounting for losses due to heat, lensing, light guides, and power conversion. Hence, LEDs with 140 lm/W or higher are often preferred. Leading LED manufacturers like CREE and Samsung offer LEDs with efficiencies of up to 200 lm/W, specifying the conditions required to achieve such ratings. It's worth noting that the maximum efficiency of an LED is often attained at a current lower than its maximum rating. Therefore, the cost-effectiveness versus efficiency debate remains relevant in lighting technology.

LED Indicator Lights

If your application demands simple visual notifications, such as the blinking lights on a router, you can streamline the process by opting for indicator LEDs. These LEDs come in various colors and can be sized according to the specific requirements of the application. Arrow offers LEDs ranging from 0402 packages to 10 mm T- 3 packages. Purchasing pre-packaged bar lights and LED groups can be a time- saving solution for your next design.

REPLACING DAMAGED WIRING

Regularly inspecting your power outlets is crucial for safety. A warm outlet cover indicates potential danger, often signaling faulty wiring causing increased temperature. If damaged wires are detected, immediate replacement by a qualified electrician is imperative. Avoid using tape or makeshift repairs to reduce costs, as this compromises safety. Prioritizing the purchase of certified electrical wires ensures the smooth operation of your electrical system and enhances home safety.

HANDLING FAULTY APPLIANCES

Nowadays, replacing a fused bulb independently is straightforward. However, when dealing with issues like tripping circuits, ceiling fans, or water pumps, a thorough initial inspection is required before removal, making professional assistance necessary for the task.