Electrical systems have their own lingo. And to better understand how electricity works in your home, it is helpful to understand some of the terms. So here are a few common electrical terms.
- Current. Current is the flow of electricity through a conductor. There are two types of current. AC (alternating current) is the standard type of current found in your home. DC (direct current) is usually found in batteries.
- Conductor. A conductor is a material that can carry an electrical current. The most effective conductors are metals, such as copper.
- Circuit. A circuit is the path that a current of electricity follows. For electricity to flow through the circuit, it needs a live and neutral wire.
- Live and neutral wires. All electrical items have both a live and neutral wire. The live (or hot) wire – usually black, red or blue – connects to the power source and carries the electrical load through the item. The neutral wire – usually white or gray – completes the circuit by returning the power to the source.
- Short circuit. This occurs when the live and neutral wires touch. This causes a current surge, “tripping” the circuit breaker.
- Circuit breaker. Circuit breakers “trip” to cut the flow of electricity if there is a sudden surge in the circuit. Circuit breakers are in the electric control panel.
- Electric control panel. The electric control panel contains circuit breakers that cut off the flow of electricity. Electric control panels are usually located in the basement. Since electrical control panels have several circuit breakers, you should label each breaker so you know what it connects to.
- Voltage. Voltage is the pressure or force of the current that runs through a conductor or wire. Much like the increased volume and flow rate of water increases water pressure, an increase in voltage reflects increased electrical power and flow.
- Wattage. Wattage is the rate at which electricity is transferred in a circuit. The higher the wattage, the higher amount of electricity is being transferred. The amount of wattage is expressed in watts.
- Kilowatt hour (KWH). Kilowatt hours are helpful to measure large amounts of electricity. One KWH equals 1,000 watts. Your electric bills may reflect the number of KWH your home used during the time period.
- Lumen. Lumen is the measurement of the brightness of a light bulb. The higher the lumens the greater the light.
- Conduit. The tube casing that electrical wires are concealed in.
- Jacket. The outer covering of a wire.
- Fault. An electrical fault is an abnormal current that occurs in an electrical system. Faults happen when wiring malfunctions or begins to decay. Signs include flickering lights, broken light switches, and higher electricity bills.
- Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). A GFCI outlet is a special type of outlet that interrupts the flow of electricity if it comes in contact with water. These outlets are most often located in rooms such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric Can Help with Your Electrical Needs
The licensed electricians at Ravinia Plumbing can assist you with all your electrical needs, and will explain what they are doing in a language you will understand. Our customers have relied on us since 1928 (that’s 96 years!) for quality products, knowledgeable technicians, and superior service, including 24/7/365 emergency service. That is why we’ve made a name for ourselves as the most trusted plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical company in Chicagoland. Contact Ravinia Plumbing today to schedule an appointment.
