Upgrading Your Company’s Electric System for Safety – Part 2

As discussed in Part 1, a well-designed and maintained electrical system in a commercial facility decreases the chances of injuries and fatalities, damaged equipment and electronics, power outages, and fires. Part 2 will discuss Key Safety Suggestions and Undersized Electrical Panels.

Key Safety Suggestions

Ungrounded two-pronged outlets should be replaced by grounded three-pronged outlets. GFCIs (ground fault circuit interrupters) should be installed in bathrooms, kitchens, and other rooms where water is present. Frequently installed in the 1960s and 1970s, aluminum wiring poses a serious threat to safety and should be replaced to prevent electrical fires.

Undersized Electrical Panels

Although an older electrical wiring system might not be unsafe, it might not be capable of supplying adequate power to meet the demands of a modern business. Symptoms like flickering and dimming lights, circuit breakers tripping, and requiring extension cords to meet electrical needs are indications that your electrical infrastructure is inadequate.

Decades ago, the electrical needs of a small business could be supplied by a 60-amp electrical panel. However, the growing number of electronic devices has significantly increased electrical demand. As a result, smaller commercial buildings now require a 200-amp service. Larger buildings may require a 600-amp service panel or larger to provide sufficient power for all the electrical equipment inside.

Being capable of providing adequate electricity to all equipment is not just about making things convenient. Electronics and electrical equipment with motors may be severely damaged if they are not supplied with the voltage they require to run properly.

Nowadays, the wiring of a modern commercial facility must be capable of handling increased loads of electricity. Wiring that is too small for the electrical current flowing through may overheat, resulting in a fire that may destroy your business.

Consider performing an electrical wiring upgrade if your business has plans to install new machinery or a new major appliance such as an HVAC system. A licensed electrician experienced in servicing commercial facilities can calculate the additional load that will be placed on your existing electrical panel. This professional may recommend an upgrade is required if it won’t be able to handle it.

Electrical Peace of Mind

Providing professional electricians since 1988 in Maryland, Cook Electric is the company you can rely on for all your electrical service needs. For knowledgeable, fair, honest, reliable, and conscientious service, call Cook Electric today at (410) 266-9040. We will be very glad to help you.