Power point electricians and their roles
Whilst we all rely heavily on the electrical power supply within our residential and commercial spaces, it is all too easy to forget the crucial role that power point – including outlet/plug point – electricians play in setting up and ensuring the safety and efficiency of our electrical systems as a whole. These electricians are the experts in installing, maintaining and repairing power points throughout our living and working areas.
What are power point electricians’ key responsibilities?
Power point electricians are responsible for determining the electrical needs of an area or building, and strategically positioning/installing power points to ensure that any power/plug points are adequate for their intended use without running the risk of overloading the circuits in those areas. Overloading a plug point with too many devices drawing power from the plug can result in the possibility of fires, shocks or tripping the overload switch at the main board. All power points are connected to the main outlet board or breaker panel, which is then divided into circuits which feed a certain number of power outlet points (wall plugs). This is done to prevent overloading of any one power point and distribute the flow of power more evenly and safely within any designated area. Additional power points may be installed by tapping into an existing circuit or directly linking to the main board/breaker panel. A power point electrician will determine which option conforms to safety regulations, by using either a blueprint of the existing electrical system or specialised equipment such as ammeters, voltmeters, thermal scanners and cable testers. .Power point electricians may work independently or with other electricians, architects and general contractors, depending on the scope of the work, i.e., installing power points in a newly constructed building or installing additional power points in an existing structure. Installing electrical systems in newly constructed buildings is often less complicated than maintaining equipment in existing buildings because electrical wiring is more easily accessible during construction.
Battling with power point malfunctions? Call in the specialist!
Power point electricians are specialists in diagnosing and rectifying issues related to power point malfunctions or failures such as faulty wiring, damaged outlets or circuit overloads.
Circuit overloads occur when too many plugs are attached to one outlet point through extension cables and multiplug extensions, which could lead to fires, shocks or trip the breaker switch at the main electrical board, a safety feature of the board. In such cases, it is better to have an additional plug point connected to a different circuit to spread the electrical load more evenly. Power point electricians are called upon when expanding or reconfiguring power point systems where there is a demand for increased electrical outlet points. Loadshedding, or temporary loss of power to the main board, can result in power surges when the power to the main board is restored and all appliances draw full power simultaneously. Power point electricians are the experts in installing safety features such as surge protection devices to prevent damage to appliances or tripping of the main board due to overload demands.
Help conserve energy efficiency and maintain electrical systems
Energy efficiency is a priority in all our lives, especially with the high cost of electricity, and power point electricians take this factor into account, utilising their specialised knowledge of energy-efficient plugs and plug-point designs and the use of eco-friendly materials which assist in reducing energy consumption and lowering utility costs. These specialist electricians maintain electrical safety standards, resolve problems due to malfunctions within the electrical system, and implement cost- and energy-efficient upgrades. As such, they are the experts in maintaining the integrity and functionality of electrical systems in all spheres of our lives.
How do I find the right power point electrician for my needs?
Check their online ratings and customer reviews
Uptasker is one of the leading online search sites in South Africa, providing maximum benefit to both suppliers and those looking for specific service specialists. Not only can you find geographical listings of suppliers on this site, allowing you to find the right supplier in your location, but also “one-click” links to the suppliers’ listings, websites and portfolios (if available), and online ratings and customer reviews of their work. These reviews will give a clear indication of the value, quality, and service levels of any supplier, which is a great advantage when looking for the right specialist for your needs – and for your peace of mind! You could also go the long route by using the online Yellow Pages, checking adverts in House and Home magazines, architectural publications, and newspapers.
