Due to their complex wiring systems, commercial buildings are much more prone to electrical issues than residential properties. It is important to examine and maintain the whole system on a regular basis to ensure safety at all times. Poor maintenance can increase the risks of electrical damages in a building and can also result in increasing monthly utility bills. Here are the most common electrical problems that can be encountered in commercial buildings.
Flickering or Dim Lights
Poor connections tend to be the root cause for flickering and dimming lights in commercial buildings. If the issues aren’t resolved, this could lead to long-lasting damage and may require a full repair. If you notice the building’s lights beginning to flicker or dim, contact an electrician immediately to help identify the issue and recommend a solution. Also, if your fixtures are discoloured, they should be replaced and loose connections need to be fixed to prevent electrical breakdown.
Tripping Circuit Breakers
When a circuit breaker trips too often, it’s a sign that it’s not doing its job and it needs to be replaced. There are many reasons why the breakers in a commercial building will trip. These include short circuits, ground faults or overloaded circuits. High-wattage machines can trip circuit breakers, especially when other heavy-duty devices are running using the same power source. Limit electrical usage on a single circuit. If you don’t fix these problems, they might increase the risk of fire hazards.
Power Loss
An unexpected blackout or power loss can be a serious problem. In most cases, you can simply flick the fuse switch to resolve the issue. If this doesn’t work, call an experienced professional to diagnose and repair the system.
Wiring
Old wiring is almost a certainty in many old buildings and facilities. More often than not, there is a combination of old and new wiring as the latter is added during electrical upgrades and renovations. The danger lies in the possibility of electrical sparks resulting from an accidental overload or power surge. Also, loose wire connections occasionally occur after renovations and repairs in the building. They can lead to overheating and arcing, which in turn can lead to an electrical fire and injuries.
Electrical Fires
Misuse, overuse, and improper installation of electrical devices such as telephones, air conditioning units, water heaters, and other equipment can lead to various problems, including electrical fires, especially in offices that rely heavily on computers. Proper maintenance, repair, and replacement o all electrical components should be done regularly by a licensed electrician to make sure that the building is protected.
Industrial Appliances
The use of heavy-duty machinery in commercial buildings such as warehouses and industrial plants creates susceptibility to electrical failure and fire hazards as they require a lot of power to operate. You should ensure that the circuitry is checked regularly.