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From flickering lights to fried outlets, any problems with your home’s electrical system should be repaired by a qualified electrician. Handling electricity is almost always dangerous, and they have the proper training to address concerns while staying safe in the process. However, having a basic understanding of how the system works will leave you prepared to notice performance issues and get help before the situation gets worse. 

How Does a Residential Electrical System Work?

Power Is Delivered to the House Through the Main Panel 

The utility company attaches its equipment to the feeder wires for your home’s meter. The device gauges the household’s electricity usage, which is reflected in monthly electricity bills. Under the meter is the main panel. It serves as the hub that distributes circuits to lights, HVAC equipment, outlets, and anything else in the home powered by electricity. The circuits end the journey back at the main panel. If an electrical current can’t power appliances along a circuit, an electrician might see if the problem starts at the main panel.       

Neutral & Hot Wires Provide Different Voltage Ranges

One neutral and two hot wires typically run through a house. When one hot wire and the neutral wire run along a circuit, they create enough power to operate lights and appliances that require 120 volts. Some devices require more electricity than others. To power heating and cooling equipment and other major appliances, all three wires are used to create 240 volts of electricity. 

Circuit Breakers Cut off Electricity

electricianIf there’s a problem with the electrical system or devices, a circuit might draw more electricity than it can handle. When this happens, the breaker for the circuit will trip. The breaker controls the flow of electricity to a circuit. When it trips, the power on that circuit is shut off. If a breaker trips frequently, an electrician can determine what is causing the circuit overload.

 

If it’s been a while since your home’s electrical system has been inspected or you require maintenance and repairs, reach out to the team at Piedmont Electric Repair Company. Based in High Point, NC, the licensed, certified electricians are trained to handle both simple and complex issues and ensure your system runs efficiently and doesn’t pose safety risks. To schedule electrical repair or installation in the Piedmont Triad region, call (336) 889-0222. Visit the electricians online to learn more about their experience.

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