Electricity 101

An automatic transfer switch consists of an electrical power control device that reroutes electricity under certain power conditions. It enables the safe switching of power from one source to another. Consequently, this ensures a safe and reliable transfer of power while minimizing the risks of fire, damage, or back feeding of power to the utility lines. How the automatic transfer switch works The automatic transfer switch (ATS) detects power failures or restorations. It automatically transfers the load from one source to the other seamlessly. For example, once it detects a power failure in the utility line, the ATS initiates procedures for starting

Two costs are associated with any electrical appliance: the buying price, and the running cost in terms of energy and maintenance. Of the running costs, energy is one of the major items. Typically, the equipment can last several years before requiring a major repair. Consumers should therefore not just look at the price tag on the item.  Rather, pay attention to its energy rating and available energy saving modes. Energy star certified equipment Energy star certified equipment satisfies certain energy saving levels while providing an acceptable performance compared to other equipment. They usually consume between 10 and 50 percent less energy compared to

In the United States, coal mining accounts for about 50% of all electric power. Coal offers several benefits as a traditional source of energy. Therefore, the future of coal remains strong. Though many consider the production of coal to generate negative environmental factors, it does have its advantages. 1) Coal is a far cheaper source of energy than natural gas, oil, or nuclear energy. Although hydro-electric power is a competing energy source, it must deal with issues such as public resistance, and stability of river levels. 2) Coal provides energy independence because it reduces the need for importing oil. 3)

Most of us accept electricity as a readily available and safe power source to use in our home electrical system. Consumers use electricity for many everyday things including heating, cooking, watching TV, charging our cell phones, and powering our computers. Because of safety laws, electricians and home builders have the obligation to ensure that electrical wiring for homes and offices get properly grounded. This protects the customer from electrical shocks and accidents. Regulatory laws require electrical wiring for the home to pass inspection. In addition, regular checks and maintenance are always a good idea. This ensures that the home electrical

A typical homeowner should be familiar with the electric panel that controls electricity distribution to all areas of the home. Usually, the electric panel is ignored, unless it becomes necessary to flip a breaker switch. A breaker switch can turn off power to a specific area of the home, such as a bathroom. This does not affect the electricity supply to the entire home. Should flipping a breaker switch be the extent of attention paid to the electric panel? The answer is a definite no, for the reason that a defective or inadequate electric panel is dangerous. A defective panel